Category Archives: Author Interview

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 Author Interview: D’Juan “OJ” Dyer

#authorinterview

I’d like to extend a very warm welcome to my blog to D’Juan “OJ” Dyer, an award-winning writer of post-apocalyptic fiction and a published poet. Post-Apocalyptic fiction is one of my favourite genres and I’m thrilled that you are here to share your work and your writing journey with us.

  1. Before we delve any further, would you like to tell readers a little about yourself?

First and foremost, I would like to thank you for putting me on your platform. I see we are coming out the gate with a loaded question. Who is OJ? In the simplest form I am a man on a mission to transition from a street soldier to a world esteemed writer and poet. I was born in Detroit, Michigan and raised mainly in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

My adolescents were plagued with gang violence, which led to me being stabbed twice in street fights, and the crafting of a persona that I am currently trying to shed to grow into the man I am supposed to be. Throughout this transition I have found myself holding beliefs that are contrary to the normal. I am an ordained pagan minister and an outspoken anarchist. But beyond that I am a 23-year-old father of four, who is finding his way through this cold world. I am a life-long writer although I just recently entered the publishing industry. I also own a niche-publishing company by the name of Half Dead Association, LLC which I started to release my dystopia and post-apocalyptic novels autonomously.

  1. What prompted you to become a writer and get involved in the publishing industry?

I always wanted to be a writer ever since I was a child. I’m going to be completely honest I was a bad kid. I practically lived on punishment. Punishment in my household was different though, my mom would strip my room bare. She would take everything out, including my door off the hinges, just leaving my clothes in my closet and my mattress. But the one thing she allowed me to have was books. She would take me to the local library and let me pick out like six books to take home and read. So, at that point I was reading multiple books within a day, and that made me fall in love with storytelling. To me, books were magical. They transported me out of my solitary confinement conditions into a different world. What’s more magical than that? After reading so many books and being transported to so many different worlds I knew that I wanted to write. I wanted to be able to transport someone into a fictional world and make them fall in love just like I did. I had always been a creative soul, but those experiences gave me an artform to hone in on. So, I started writing little stories but never shared them with anyone.

I didn’t officially decide to jump into the publishing industry until two years ago though. Why? Because I got my heart broken. I completely lost myself. I was homeless and majorly depressed. I started to live with my best friend, whom I’ve known since the third grade, in a studio apartment. I would just lay on the couch all day doing nothing. My spirit was broken. But my best friend one day got fed up with me just sleeping all day and forced me to get up and write something. That’s when I started writing Black Autumn. After sharing a bit of it with him, he got all serious and asked me if I ever considered publishing the stuff I wrote. In that moment is when I decided that I would actually try my hand in publishing, I mean I didn’t really have anything else to lose at that point. Once I put Black Autumn out, it won #1 New Release in 30-Minute Teen and Young Adult Short Reads. How I looked at it was like, for it to be my first project I put out and it achieved that accolade, writing wasn’t an option anymore, it was my destiny. The rest is history in the making. Who would’ve thought I would find my blessing in the midst of what I perceived to be cursed times? I surely didn’t. C’est la vie.

  1. Your work in the apocalyptic genre has earned you the title “The Voice of The Apocalypse”. What inspired you to write in this genre?

I’ve always been a fan of the genre and that even extends beyond books. What started it was my obsession with zombie movies and shows. Then I got really big into doomsday prepper content and just all things that was based around the end of the world. I was fascinated. People tell you to write what you know, and that’s what I love to consume so it was a natural fit. The biggest draw in for me was questioning what people would do without rules. When you really think about it, society behaves a certain way solely because we have laws set in place that are enforced with punishments. If you take away the laws and you take away the punishments, people will probably act completely different and be more impulsive. For example: Say you are broke and hungry, and you happen to walk past a pizza shop. In our current society, you are probably going to be like, “Man I wish I had the money to get some pizza right about now.” But if there was no consequence, most people would run in the pizza shop, steal a pizza, and go home happy.

I like writing in this genre because I can explore that other side, the what-if, and make people ponder their own morality. In this genre anything goes. You wouldn’t kill someone in the store today just because they grabbed the last loaf of bread. But what if there were no rules and that was the last loaf of bread in the city? What if your family was starving and haven’t eaten all day, would you kill for it then? My examples may sound a little unhinged but it’s the truth, and I want readers to confront that truth within themselves. How far would you truly be willing to go under dire circumstances with no rules?

  1. Your dystopian short story, I Did Something Bad (Ascendia Series), released earlier this year. What themes does the book explore?

I would say betrayal and freedom are the biggest themes. The story is based around someone who is looking for freedom within a super controlling environment, and the main character also happens to be deeply betrayed by the people closest to him. The search for freedom and the major betrayal he suffers is why the story is titled ‘I Did Something Bad’. In the end it also briefly explores forgiveness with a strong conviction on action and consequence. At first the betrayal isn’t evident, but when the main character explains it, I think most people will understand it but not agree with it. The twist in that book is crazy if I do say so myself. 

  1. Do the characters in the story in any way reflect elements of your own personality /life experience or those of people you know? Tell us about the main character in your novel and his motivations. Feel free to share a short snippet.

The elements of my story actually refer to a song that my previously mentioned best friend made. It’s called ‘Shoulda Known’ by Sahghoul. It’s available on Soundcloud, and I definitely think it deserves more recognition. But of course, me being an apocalyptic fiction writer, I put my own spin on it and expanded it into my own world. I actually used a couple of the lyrics throughout the course of the book. That came about because one day I played the song while in the shower and the idea for this story just popped into my head. I always have the best ideas while in the shower, it’s my sanctum. The only aspect that directly relates to my life is that the main character is a writer. The story itself is set in a city that is ruled by a dictator. The main rule is no one is allowed to leave the city because everything is allegedly destroyed outside of the walls of this city. The main character is a journalist that doesn’t believe everything is destroyed and he’s on a mission to find a way to escape the city and in the process expose the dictator as a liar.

Snippet: “Almost instantaneously Blackridge lost contact with the rest of Ascendia. Soon after, the mayor sent out a group of officers to seek aid. But when they returned, they came with a message. Supposedly everything outside the city’s walls were destroyed with no signs of survivors. You did not believe them one bit; it did not make sense. No one could envision what would happen next or how to possibly rebuild, but they believed in Mayor Shepard. Too much if anyone asked you.”

  1. Your author bio states that you have done a lot of travelling. To what extent, if any, did this influence your writing journey?

Travelling has definitely influenced my writing. When you travel to so many places you see so many different cultures and meet so many different types of people. Which is crucial to the world-building aspect because it makes you consider different dialects and mentalities. Someone from up north is very different from someone down south. From their beliefs to their morals, to their mentality, its all just so different.  You gain a deep appreciation of people as a whole when you get to see different backgrounds and different struggles, and how they are portrayed. Humans are such unique creatures. Travelling also helped me spread my brand tremendously. I get support from so many different states just because I was able to build genuine connections from either living there or passing through. I was born in Michigan but have also lived in New Mexico and Texas. For a few years I used to take a yearly vacation to Florida. I’ve visited West Virginia, Georgia, and Ohio. On road trips I’ve passed through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Indiana, Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Tennessee.

  1. Are you a ‘panster’ or ‘plotter’ or something in between?

Panster all the way. I honestly wouldn’t know how to plot if my life depended on it. The only thing I plot ahead of time is the character names and the locations the book will take place in. I drew a complete map of my fictional world Ascendia and pick different locations for each book. But once I get the general idea of the story I want to tell, I go straight to the lab and start cooking. I don’t really know how other authors write, but the story just comes to me and tells itself as it goes.

Sometimes I don’t feel like I’m the one writing the story, the characters are telling their stories to me, and I just document it. It’s almost like they are their own sentient entities. There was this one time I was half asleep and lines just started appearing in my head out of nowhere. So, here I am all groggy trying to listen and type at the same time. This continued for about a half an hour before they were like okay you can go to sleep now; we’ll tell you more when you wake up. Is that weird? Oh well, it is what it is. It’s kind of enchanting when I think about it. Maybe a little crazy, but enchanting, nonetheless. I say that because I’ll be writing and like I know what I would do in certain situations, but when it’s dictated to me, I just be like, “Woah. You are crazy, I definitely wouldn’t of did that.” Or it’ll be the opposite and I’ll be talking to myself like, “That was your response? I ain’t even mad at you, I would’ve done the same thing.” Yes, I just admitted to talking to myself at times. And I’m not saying I’m a genius, but all creative geniuses talk to themselves.

  1. Do you set aside time to write every day? I am particularly interested in how you manage to motivate yourself to set aside time to write within a busy schedule or when life decides to throw us a curveball.

If I didn’t set time aside to write every day I feel as if I’d be disrespecting my fans and supporters, but that’s just me. Who am I to play with these people who believe in me? Having four kids, it’s definitely a tedious task. Luckily, my spouse understands how important it is that I write so she often will watch the kids for a couple hours a day and just tell me to go do what I do best. I don’t suffer from writer’s block like most people so it’s easy for me to just hop in my zone and go. I learned that sometimes you must cut your luxuries to make time for writing. I used to be an avid gamer, but then I started feeling guilty. I would game for like four hours straight, on the light side, and when I finished, I’d just sit there and be like, “I probably could have made a better use of my time, like writing my story.” So, I stopped playing video games, I haven’t touched a game in about eight months at this point. I’m very self-motivated. This is my calling and if I don’t give it my all then I’m only hurting myself.

Sometimes life does throw you a curveball and you can’t help it, but you have to will yourself to write. Even if it’s half a page, it’s better than nothing. I once heard a quote that you have to put an equal amount of work into your business as you spend working in someone else’s. That stuck with me. Because your day job will keep the bills paid, but your business is what will make you rich. When you come from where I come from, a lot of people don’t make it out. So, when you have something that gives you that sliver of hope, you MUST take it and run with it. That’s how I look at it, this is my only way to make it out, so I have to keep pushing forward no matter what happens. Whatever you are going through, pour that emotion into your story. Are you angry? Write a fight scene or a scene where your main character is furious. Horny? Write a sex scene. Sad? Write a scene where you character is experiencing the ‘all is lost’ moment.

At the end of the day, little progress is better than no progress. As long as you are working on your project, rather it be writing or editing, you are progressing. You have to ask yourself what is your goal and how do I get there? My advice is to set your goal very high. My goal is to own a private island, and with writing being my only foreseeable way out, I have to make time to push that ball forward until I reach that goal. By any means necessary. I want my kids to have a better life than I had, and if I want that to happen, I have to continue writing every single day. People depend on me, this is bigger than self.

  1. Writing can be a solitary process. Do you have any writing buddies, co-writers, or anyone you go to for support, either face- to- face or online?

When it comes to the writing process, I often run to my spouse Ella Chrisman, who is also my editor. She is the only one that really sees my vision in its entirety and knows where I’m trying to go with my writing. She always gives me sound advice when I ask. Other than that, I usually talk to Stanley James II as he has a lot of experience in the world of publishing with his company, GangTales Publications. He’s been a real stand-up guy about helping me move forward in this industry. A lot of the time though I stay to myself, I’ve always been that way. I’d rather deal with things alone, and only ask for help when I feel like I absolutely did everything I could before going to outside resources.

  1. What do you find the most difficult part of writing?

I would have to say the hardest part is releasing projects. I’m about to admit something pretty heavy that most people don’t know about me, and it directly correlates to my writing. My stepfather used to abuse me as a child, and my mom had no clue. So, I developed this fear of being vulnerable. When I finish writing a story, I get anxious to release it because my writing is such a vulnerable part of me. A lot of things I write have my own internal thoughts or feature poems about my true feelings. Being damaged like I was at such a young age makes it hard for me to know that when I release projects, people are going to form opinions about it and judge it. But I’m conquering that fear with each project I put out. Sheesh, you are getting the raw version of me in the interview.

  1. If you could share three pieces of advice to give to an aspiring author, what would they be?

The first is, don’t listen to people when they tell you what you can and can’t do. This is your craft, and everyone has their own path to walk. Walk in your truth, what doesn’t work for someone else may just work for you. (That rhymed and I didn’t do it on purpose, must be the poet in me.) Second, perfectionism is a hinderance. If you are looking for perfection, you will never get anything done. You live and you learn, and the best way to learn is through experience. Third, this is a marathon and not a sprint. You will not become a best seller overnight, but don’t let that discourage you. Keeping writing, keep releasing content. The only way you are going to make it in this industry is through dedication, hard work, and patience. (Long Live Nipsey Hussle)

  1. How many books have you published so far in your writing career and what are you currently working on?

I’ve published one e-book, Black Autumn, and one paperback which is I Did Something Bad. Honestly, I’m sitting on a few stories that I’m not sure if I’m ever going to release because they are just so personal. Like I said, I’m still trying to conquer that vulnerability demon. Right now, I’m working on the main content of the Ascendia series. Paradise Wilds is up next and should be available in either July or August. I’m already 111 pages into that so that’s why the potential release date is so close. After that is Raven’s Rock, which I’m super excited to start. I foresee this probably being about a 12-15 book series, so y’all will be hearing about the Ascendia Series for a while.

  1. Finally some fun questions!

a.) Do you have a ‘go to’ drink or snack to inspire you while you write?

Most definitely! Red Wine is my go-to drink. Okay, you were probably not expecting that but it’s the truth. A little bit of wine is great for writing, it loosens me up and gets me out my head. I can write a little more freely without overthinking about how my writing will be perceived by the general public. For a snack, I would probably say cheddar and sour cream Pringles for sure.

b.) Do you believe in aliens?

Without a doubt. To believe that humans are the only creature in this universe with superior intellect is honestly a terrifying thought, especially because I feel we are leading ourselves into an extinction. But then again, that’s where we run into the Fermi Paradox. If you look throughout history we have many cultures, some ancient, that believed we have been visited by aliens multiple times already. The most interesting one to me is the Anunnaki, the ancient alien gods of Mesopotamia who were in charge of determining the fate of humanity. I also believe that aliens may be the reason behind our technological leap.

c.) Your favourite flavour ice cream?

I’m weird, I don’t really like ice cream. The closest I get is ice cream sandwiches, and even that’s iffy. I’m not really a big dessert fan, especially cold ones. Even though this wasn’t asked, I also don’t eat pork or any red meat. I’m a pescatarian.

  1. Is there anything else you would like to share with us today?

My final words: Go order you a copy of I Did Something Bad, like right now! Otherwise, you are doing yourself a disservice. Also, every copy that gets ordered feeds my children a happy meal. You still haven’t ordered your copy yet? You must want my kids to starve, rude. Paradise Wilds is on the way, and if you stuck through this whole interview, I love you lol. 

Thank you for such a fascinating and candid interview. I wish you the very best in life and with your writing and am looking forward to reading your work. 🙂

Blurb

The impenetrable city of Blackridge, Ascendia finds itself stuck under a dictator’s control five years after an earthquake caused the rest of the world to end. The number one rule of Blackridge is that under no circumstance is anyone allowed to leave the city. But after a journalist’s wife goes missing, he yearns to escape the city’s walls. In order for the journalist to break free of the fascist government, the truth about his wife’s disappearance must be unveiled.

BONUS CONTENT: Features a Sneak Peek of Dyer’s upcoming novel ‘Paradise Wilds’

Purchase Links

Amazon US

Amazon UK

Author Bio

D’Juan “OJ” Dyer is an award-winning writer of post-apocalyptic fiction and a published poet. O.J. was born in Detroit, Michigan and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan – but has traveled all across the United States. As a father of four and businessman his goal is to inspire people to chase their dreams, and to show his children that they can do/achieve anything if they put their mind to it. He solely committed to writing fictional novels professionally, after he transitioned his life from being a member of a notorious street organization. Dyer self-funded his craft by investing his personal money into learning the business, then creating his own independent publisher, Half Dead Association, LLC to release his novels autonomously. His work in the apocalyptic genre has earned him the title “The Voice of The Apocalypse”.

Connect with the Author

Amazon US
Amazon UK

Twitter

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*Interview with Ian Cawley, author of GNOSIS*

#technothriller #thriller #politicalthriller #futuristic #mysticism

Today we are thrilled to welcome Ian Cawley, author of Gnosis, a thriller which blends big business and politics with world events, climate change and ancient mysticism. I was fortunate to meet Ian (pictured above) when he visited Tamworth Literary Festival in March this year and I am very much looking forward to reading Gnosis.

Scroll down to read the interview Ian with and find out about Gnosis. 🙂 

Book Blurb

How far would your conscience take you?

In a world increasingly disturbed by the Climate Change Phenomenon, and with overwhelming economic refugee migration, Max Harrington’s conscience led him to create GNOSIS; a computerised management system to regulate energy and fuel consumption around the globe.

His vision was of a cleaner, fairer and healthier world. What he didn’t see, however, was that the big data created would become a far more valuable prize to those less bound by conscience.

This political thriller, set in the digital age, follows a trail of murderous clues, running from the academic fields of Cambridge, through the powerbrokers of Westminster and into the war-torn desolation of the Holy Lands.

Q & A

1. Tell us about yourself

Born in the Manchester area, I’ve worked in jobs that have ranged from loading fruit & veg vans to running a film school, but mainly in the graphics and the audio-visual industries. I wrote my first screenplay in 1989, shortly after graduating, which gained the attention of Channel 4, though the project was scuppered with all the others thanks to Lady Thatcher selling off the TV franchises at that time.

Since then, encouraged by a year’s MA of Scriptwriting at Film School, I have endeavoured to continue my writing of unique stories with some success through independent fiction films and documentaries.

Now living in the Midlands, I’m married with two children.

2. Tell us about GNOSIS.

I had become tired of trying to get writing and film projects up and going, so I decided on a different approach to getting my work out there.

The advent of Amazon’s self-publishing option came as an obvious outlet; a relatively easy way in which to get your work out to a wider public and see how it’s received. It was also a fresh challenge since I had never attempted to write in the novel format before.

The idea for GNOSIS came about, I think, after watching Tobias Churton’s documentary series on ‘The Gnostics’ whilst at the same time reading up on some of the ideas of two scientists – Fritjof Capra and James Lovelock. Capra was postulating theories of connectivity of all matter in the universe whilst Lovelock was expounding his Gaia Theory – the earth being a self-regulating organism.

I found myself intrigued by these philosophical ideas and pondered the prospect of weaving them into a fictional story using conventional narrative devices. These creative musings, however, have taken twenty-five years to come to fruition.

The story

Gnosis is the story of Max, a digital engineer who wants to save the world.

How far would your conscience take you? In a world increasingly disturbed by the Climate Change Phenomenon, and with overwhelming economic refugee migration, Max Harrington’s conscience led him to create GNOSIS; a computerised management system to regulate energy and fuel consumption around the globe. His vision was of a cleaner, fairer and healthier world. What he didn’t see, however, was that the big data created would become a far more valuable prize to those less bound by conscience. This political thriller, set in the digital age, follows a trail of murderous clues, running from the academic fields of Cambridge, through the powerbrokers of Westminster and into the war-torn desolation of the Holy Lands.

3. I understand that one reviewer has called it ‘The Da Vinci Code meets Big Data’?

Yes. I can see why that may have occurred to the reader since it is a traditional mystery plot involving the lust for power and control (information being the asset) whilst having undercurrents of possible supernatural forces at work, the use of codes and mysticism.

4. Lots of people have also said that they can see GNOSIS as a film

Absolutely. GNOSIS is really a movie script hiding in a novel. Given that my first love is cinema and all my previous writing has been for the screen, it was inevitable that that style would surface in the way it came off the page. It is also structured very much like a movie.

5. How long did it take you to write the novel?

The idea for GNOSIS had been kicking around for over 25 years, but I only really started writing it up in anger (as a novel) in 2011 and published it in the summer of 2016.

6. It’s extremely topical, and in that respect I am talking about the political, EU, terrorism, climate change, big data and hacking themes. Readers have called GNOSIS ‘an uncanny prediction”.

Are you psychic?

Well to quote Bob Dylan “You don’t need a weather man to know which way the wind blows.”

7. What kind of research did you do?

As I went through the story, the technical details were served purely though the internet. For example, YouTube showed me the drive from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.  The internet is a wonderful tool for the writer and it can allow you to do neg checks as well before releasing the story.

Characters

8, Which is your favourite character in GNOSIS, and why?

Oh gosh, that’s hard – like saying who is your favourite child. That’s a tough one. If I had a few I’d pick – Max of course, but I do have a soft spot for Brent McGregor. He’s an utter buffoon. I also like the character of Francois because he cares and doesn’t care in the same measure.

9. Are any characters like you?

Of course. Max. In my fantasies. 🙂

10. When you were writing it could you see certain actors as the characters?

It was only towards its completion that we began to fantasise about potential actors. Kevin Spacey I thought would be excellent for Joe Green. Emily Blunt for Georgina.

And for Max…? I never really came up with one for Max. My wife came up with several. 🙂

Clifford? Maybe Derek Jacobi as Clifford…

11. Are any of the characters real life people – politicians for example?

There are elements drawn from people who I have never met but know of, and there are elements of people I know and have known quite well.

12. Your favourite football team has made its way into GNOSIS. You support Manchester City. Tell us more.

It just seemed a fun thing to do for City fans. Some of the in-jokes are a bit obscure and you would have to be a City fan of some long standing to get all of them.  I’ve supported Man City since leaving primary school.

13. You have several films featured in GNOSIS (Night of the Demon etc.) – are they your favourites? Why were they included….

The 30’s horror films tend to be a motif for my childhood. The reference to Jacques Tourneur’s 1957 film ‘Night of the Demon’ has two significant elements to it – firstly, I saw it as a kid and it had me absolutely captivated. Secondly, I saw it when I was older with a group of mates; it being part of a BBC 2 double bill with The Ghoul starring John Hurt.

Night of the Demon is a bizarre collaboration of a European director using American money for a British production. Without going into all the politics behind the film, the mix of the American star Dana Andrews, the perverse American view of what “English countryfolk” are and the types of dwellings they live in, along with a stunning performance by Niall MacGinnis as the evil Dr Karswell, it’s an utter delight to watch. I would suggest the séance where they all sing “Cherry Ripe” together to be a moment of cinema legend.

Some of the motifs throughout the film seemed to marry so well with some of the elements and ideas in the story.  It just seemed fitting to put it in. Also, it might tempt readers to search out the film and watch it.

14. How do you pick character names? Do they have any special meaning to you?

Yes. Because they have need to suit the characters and there is always an opportunity to play an in-joke. For example, Colleen Bell – is one of the major characters to survive into the sequel. Those who can make the link with the other characters in the book will find the entire MCFC 1969 FA Cup winning side appearing here, there and everywhere.

Writing

15. Do you ever surprise yourself with what you’ve written?

Yes. When it’s a good gag and you are the first one to hear it.

16. What’s the best and the worst thing about being an author?

The hardest thing is filling white spaces with words. I don’t think it ever gets any easier. However, once you are through the process having produced what you believe to be a credible novel, there is a sense of achievement and legacy that stays with you. There’s also nothing better than to receive a glowing review from a complete stranger.

17. Where do you most like to do your writing?

In solitude and silence but that is very difficult with a growing family and several pets.

18. Do you ever get writer’s block? How do you tackle it?

No. I just get ‘lazy-itus’.

19 What is the best writing tip you have ever been given? How has it influenced you?

Alan Plater, acclaimed writer (who mentored me in the early 90s) corresponded with me frequently. To be honest, I learned more from Alan, in a few sentences amongst the paragraphs, than a whole year studying at film school.

Diana Hawkins, Film Producer. She advised me on the importance of structure. She encouraged me to get my stories into a proper structure and from that point on I understood how important it is to make your story really work.

20. How much of your own life experiences appear in your writing?

I think it’s inevitable that your own daily experience of living will find a way into some aspect of the stories, plots, characters, settings and dialogue. Writers often start writing from a point of something they already know or have an interest in.

21. What’s your usual writing routine?

My usual writing routine is to steal what time I can and promise myself that unless I write at least two paragraphs City will lose at the weekend.

Is that true? – Yes.

Self-publishing

20. You self-published GNOSIS. Why, and how easy did you find it – the process?

As I said earlier, I just wanted my work out there, read and enjoyed.

In retrospect it was fairly easy, but having my own design and computer skills helped the process immeasurably.  Someone who isn’t tech savvy might need to seek help or buy the service in. For example, I designed and created my own book cover using Photoshop and After Effects with some photography. I also handle my own Social Media accounts.

The sequel

21. You are presently writing a sequel. Care to tell us anything?

The sequel picks up the story where GNOSIS left off.  It is a time for justice to be meted out and certain individuals to get their comeuppance.  A lot of readers have already got in touch with me, and asked what’s going to happen to the ‘baddies’… Hopefully soon they will find out, and they might even get a happy ending. 🙂

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*SHELLEY WILSON* ~ Author Interview and Spotlight on her new release Guardians of the Lost Lands (book 3 of The Guardians)

SONY DSC

Today we are delighted to welcome Shelley Wilson to our blog. Shelley is the author of young adult fiction and self-help non-fiction and she is also an active blogger. We are thrilled that she has agreed to provide us with an interview so that we can quiz her about her writing process, future plans and also her new release Guardians of the Lost Lands (book 3 of The Guardians). Scroll down to find out more. 🙂 

Interview with Shelley

1.Welcome to our blog Shelley, can you tell us a little bit about yourself and what prompted you to start writing?

I was born in Leeds, West Yorkshire but moved to the West Midlands when I was just eight years old. Even though I have a Brummie accent, I still think of myself as a Yorkshire lass!

I’m a single mum to three amazing teenagers, one fat goldfish, and a black cat called Luna. My background is in holistic health, and I ran a successful ladies only spa for seven years before illness forced my hand, and I had to close. Writing always played an important part in my life from a young age, but it was only when I reached my thirties that I took it seriously – or should that be, took myself seriously as a writer.

2.Your books encompass young adult fiction and self-help non-fiction. Which genre did you write in first and to what extent do you think (if any) your writing in either  genre influences the other?

swi1I’ve written fiction for years but never did anything with it. I would submit work to magazines and receive positive feedback but then allow self-doubt to penetrate my thoughts. I never considered writing non-fiction until I started blogging. It was the self-help titles that hit the bookshelves first and in turn that success influenced me to complete my YA trilogy.

There is a fine line between both genres. It might seem strange saying that as one contains demons, faeries, and witches, and the other talks about meditation, goal setting, and achieving success, however, my protagonist in the Guardian trilogy requires all the skills from my self-help books to fulfill her quest.

I was also able to incorporate my energy healing and meditation techniques in my fantasy novels, giving my MC powers that accessed her chakra points (seven wheels of energy we have in our body). I enjoyed overlapping the two.

3.What role do you think that young adult novels can play in helping young people address issues around their own self-development, their relationship with others and the wider world?

Great question! As a YA author and a mum to three teens, helping young people is at the forefront of my mind. One of the things I love most about the YA genre is how no topic is taboo. The youngsters of today have more to deal with than my generation ever did, and the advancements in technology have a lot to do with that. They can’t switch off – ever! Life is 24/7 and with this speed, comes an increase in anxiety and mental health issues. Being able to cover these topics in YA novels is of great importance. Not only do you want to give your young reader a break from reality, but you want to answer their questions, or test their opinions and prepare them for an unknown future.

4.In terms of the world building in your fantasy series The Guardians, did you swi2carry out much research into or did you give your imagination free reign?

There was minimal research involved in the world building aspect, apart from spending a pleasant couple of hours scrolling through the fantasy art images on Pinterest and adding them to my book boards. Having said that, even though my demon and faerie realms are made-up, I still need to ensure they have a hierarchy. For example, in book one, Guardians of the Dead, the demon realm is ruled by a General, who commands his army and runs the stronghold. In the second book, Guardians of the Sky, there are some scenes set in a castle (of sorts), so I needed to research the terminology to make it easier for my readers to picture. It’s these details that I need to look into as I build my worlds.

5.What was your inspiration for the story and the characters in The Guardians series?

The rough idea behind the trilogy came from a photograph of a hooded statue in a cemetery that I saw in a magazine. I have a fascination with cemeteries and so kept flicking back to this particular image. I ended up cutting it out and fixing it to my notice board. The more I looked at it, the more the story details fell into place. My organisational side kicked in soon after, and I plotted the novel out chapter by chapter.

It might be worth noting that I used NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) to write the first draft of all three books in the trilogy. According to the rules, you are allowed to plan, plot and build character profiles, but you can’t begin writing until 1st November. Before I began writing the first book I immersed myself in the world I had created, collecting fantasy images and jotting down any scene ideas that came to mind. The characters evolved over time, but my MC, Amber, was fully formed from the moment I saw that image in the magazine. She’s everything I wished I’d been at sixteen!

6.What has been some of the most rewarding aspects of writing your self-help books?

sw5My non-fiction book, How I Changed My Life in a Year, was published in 2014 and I still receive tons of emails, tweets, and Facebook messages from readers thanking me for writing it. Hearing how people have started Open University courses, changed career, or turned their lives around after reading my book is incredible. I’ve cried at some of the marvelous letters I’ve had and made loads of new friends because of that single book. It still amazes me when I set up at a book fair, or Mind, Body, Spirit exhibition, and readers come rushing over to meet me and thank me. I’m just a single mum with grey hair and back fat! When I ran my holistic health business it was my main aim to help empower women to be the best they can be; I’m glad that I can continue to do this with my writing.

7.What is your writing process like? To what extent do you plan and how much do you just let the words flow? Does your approach vary depending on whether you are writing fiction or non-fiction?

There’s a writing process? Only kidding, I used to wing it, which is probably why I never got anything finished. Taking part in NaNo has forced me into being an OCD plotter.

As soon as I get an idea, I open a new notebook (any excuse to visit Paperchase!), and I start to jot down character bios and basic ideas. I tend to work with Christopher Vogler’s hero’s journey system to help me get my initial thoughts down. Even though I do a detailed plot outline, once I start writing the characters take over. In the Guardian series, Amber was supposed to be a witch – mid-scene she decided that wasn’t challenging enough and so now she’s the last Oracle!

With my non-fiction, I tend to set my chapter headings and go with the flow from there. As I’m writing about topics I know, it’s easy to churn out hundreds of words without a detailed plan.

8.Do you write every day? Also how do you cope if you experience writer’s block?

I try to ensure I write something every day, even if it’s just a few notes in my planner. Monday to Friday I concentrate on writing my books, editing, and preparing blog content including book reviews, and author interviews. At the weekend I’ll write if the kids are busy, but if they’re around, I’ll try to spend time with them. The older they get, the more time I spend at my computer on a Saturday! My middle son plays football every Sunday so at least I manage to get a couple of hours of fresh air!

I’ve never experienced writer’s block; I have the opposite problem of too many ideas whirling around and not knowing which one to work on first. If this happens, I’ll write a list of all my musings just to stop the brain chatter. I can then choose one to concentrate on. Writing for my two blogs means I always have something to say or do. I guess this is the perfect antidote to writer’s block.

9.If you could give an aspiring author one tip, what would it be?

Read. I’ve got a million other tips, but that’s the one that stands out as the most important one for me. I’ve discovered more about myself as a writer by reading other people’s work than any how-to-write book can show me. You learn to ‘hear’ the writer’s voice and can then find your own.

10.If you had one wish to change the world for the better what would it be?

Oh my, what a question! There is so much wrong with our world that I wouldn’t know where to start. Ending poverty and war needs to be top of the list. If we could also learn to embrace each other regardless of colour, class, culture, religion, sexual orientation, then that would go a small way towards healing the world.

11.What sort of books do you read in your spare time? Also when you are not writing or reading what do you like to do?

I adore reading YA fantasy novels, and love getting my teeth into a book series. My favourite YA authors are Cassandra Clare and Sarah J Maas. A few years ago, I joined Rosie Amber’s Book Review Team and had to expand my reading to encompass all sorts of genres. I’ve since developed a love of historical fiction (mostly Tudors), crime, murder/mystery, and horror/post-apocalyptic. I don’t do chick-lit or romance!

If I’m not writing or reading, then I’m leading an exceedingly boring existence. I enjoy going to the gym and running on the treadmill, I also love going to the cinema and can happily go on my own to watch a film (tub of popcorn all to yourself, need I say more!). I’m quite creative, so I love doing adult colouring books, spending far too long on Pinterest, and creating projects for my motivational blog. Other than that, you’ll find me curled up with a book.

12.Finally can you share with us about what your next release will be and what you are working on?

Guardians of the Lost Lands is the final book in my Guardians trilogy and releases on Friday 11th November.

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Here’s the blurb:

Amber’s final quest could claim her soul, but it’s a journey she must make.

The evil that lurks in the Lost Lands threatens to infest the realms unless Amber, Redka, and Connor can destroy it. But Amber is more concerned about her father’s safety as he is held captive by the wickedness that terrorises them all.

Amber faces isolation and mistrust from her friends as they travel across land and sea to meet their most dangerous foe.

Will she be able to stay true to her destiny as the last Oracle, or will she be tempted by the darkness? The fate of the realms is in her hands.

Amber’s final quest will be her most terrifying yet. This time, it will be deadly.

I’ve loved writing these books, but Guardians of the Lost Lands is slightly more special for me. During the writing process, I was diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety, a nasty side effect of the illness I had. The dark mood and black thoughts seeped into my writing and ended up taking Amber in a different direction. Book three is much darker than the others, but it all adds to the impact, and hopefully shows my teen readers that these feelings are perfectly normal.

I’ve got a couple of projects on the go at the moment, now that the Guardian trilogy is complete. I’m editing a standalone YA werewolf novel which I have thoroughly enjoyed writing, and this should be available early next year – my editor loved it too and wanted me to write a sequel!

On the non-fiction side, I have an Oracle Guide Book coming out in December which is a motivational tool for inspiring you every week of the year. I’m also working on a sequel to How I Changed My Life in a Year which will fit into the memoir/self-help/women’s biography category again.

It’s a busy time, but I’m loving my writer life and hope it continues for many years to come.

Thank you so much for allowing me to invade your beautiful blog, Tina. I hope your readers enjoyed  my interview.

If they want to connect with me then I can be found lurking around social media most days:

Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/ShelleyWilson72

Author Blog – http://www.shelleywilsonauthor.com

YA Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson

Motivational Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/resolutionchallenge

Website – http://www.shelleywilsonauthor.co.uk

Motivational Blog: http://myresolutionchallenge.blogspot.com

Pinterest: http://uk.pinterest.com/MotivateMeBlog

Instagram: http://www.instagram/authorslwilson

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7362789.Shelley_Wilson

Amazon Author Page: http://amazon.co.uk/Shelley-Wilson/e/B00G5KPMJI

Thank you for visiting us today Shelley and best of luck with your future releases. ❤

 

 

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*RELEASE BLITZ, AUTHOR INTERVIEW & ARC REVIEW* ~ Honeymoon, by Samantha Macleod

#paranormal #erotic #romance 
Adult/18+ read

honeymoon-1006

Samantha Macleod’s novella Honeymoon releases today, which continues the romance between the uber sexy Norse god Loki and the mortal Caroline, which began in The Trickster’s Lover, published earlier this year.

I was super excited to receive an ARC of this book as not only do I adore the characters of Loki and Caroline but I love the worlds that the author has created which draw deeply on Norse mythology. I was also thrilled to be given the opportunity to quiz Samantha about her writing journey and her plans for the future! Scroll down to read my review of Honeymoon and to read the interview with Samantha. 🙂

Blurb for Honeymoon

Mythology expert Caroline Capello agreed to marry Loki, the Norse god of fire and lies.

She didn’t realize the most dangerous part of their marriage might be the honeymoon.

My Review ~ Five stars

Just wow – frantically fanning myself!

Samantha Macleod’s novella Honeymoon follows on from the events in her scorching erotic paranormal read, The Trickster’s Lover (click on the link for my review). This sexy story packs one helluva sizzle and is a fabulous addition to Caroline’s and Loki’s romance. It works well as a standalone, but for maximum reading pleasure I’d definitely recommend reading The Trickster’s Lover first.

In it, Loki whisks Caroline away on an impromptu honeymoon, a welcome distraction from her impending nuptials on earth. Transported to Alfheim, home of the Light-elves, Caroline is subjected to Loki’s carnal attentions in this beautiful land, whilst also becoming more embroiled in the politics of the Nine Realms and the part Loki plays in it.

The lovemaking scenes are off the Richter scale and you will need a copious supply of iced drinks! The picture painted of Alfheim and the Light-elves is a vivid one and adds to the author’s rich world building of the Nine Realms. There’s also a heavy dose of magic, danger and suspense which adds to the reading pleasure.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note, a copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Purchase Links

Honeymoon

Amazon US   Amazon UK

The Trickster’s Lover

Amazon US  Amazon UK

Author Interview

1.Can you tell us a little about yourself and how long you have been writing?

Sure, and thank you so much for hosting this interview!

Like many writers, I’ve always wanted to write, and I wrote quite seriously in my early twenties (mostly short stories and personal essays). But I never got any publications, so I got discouraged, quit, and went to graduate school to study religion and mythology.

I started writing again in the spring of 2015, because of my children. I realized I was telling my kids to follow their dreams and never give up, but here I’d given up on my own childhood dream of being a writer. So I forced myself to sit down and write the sci-fi story I’d been kicking around for years. Once that was finished, I realized I had a few more stories in me. One year ago, in November of 2015, I started what I thought would be a sexy short story. It turned into The Trickster’s Lover, my first novel.

2.Do you base any elements of your heroes or heroines on anyone you know, either physically or in terms of their characters?

Hmmm, that could be a loaded question!

In The Trickster’s Lover, Loki and Caroline pretty much showed up on their own. But many of the supporting characters are based on people I’ve known, especially my friends, colleagues, and professors at the University of Chicago. All names have been changed to protect the innocent, I promise! 😉

3.What inspired you to write about the Norse god Loki (furiously fanning myself)?

Well, here’s a story I thought I’d never tell anyone: I had a dream about Loki showing up on the University of Chicago campus. That morning I sat down to turn the dream into a short story, which became the first scene between Caroline and Loki, which turned into a much longer story!

4. I loved The Trickster’s Lover and Honeymoon, your latest release which continues the story of Caroline and Loki. Do you have any plans to continue their story or to write any more books set in the world you have created? (Please say yes!)

Thank you so much! Since you asked so nicely, I’m happy to say the answer is yes!

I’m currently working on my next novel, and it does take place in the same world. This story focuses on Loki’s son Vali, who was turned into a wolf when Loki was imprisoned in the cave, and Karen McDonald, a wildlife biologist in Yellowstone National Park. It’s not exactly a sequel, although several characters from The Trickster’s Lover do show up.

I’m in the early stages of revising and, for me, that’s a painfully slow process, so I’m not going to make any promises yet. But I am hoping for a spring 2017 release…

5. What was the most challenging aspect of Caroline’s and Loki’s story to write and why?

What a great question!

Let’s see… Both Loki and Caroline are emotionally closed-off, private characters, which made them a real pain to write.

There’s a scene in the U. of C. library, after Charlie Trotter’s, that immediately comes to mind. I woke up in the middle of the night – more than once! – thinking about the dialogue in that scene. Actually, I woke up thinking about that scene even after the book was published.

And I probably re-wrote the “meet-cute” scene between Loki and Caroline about fifty times. That was my first attempt at writing a sex scene; I really struggled with pacing. It’s also the first time the reader meets Loki, so I wanted to make sure his character came across in a realistic, interesting way.

6. What do you think makes a good hero and heroine?

You know, I’ve just never been drawn to a hero or heroine who always does the right thing, the first time around. I’m much more interested in a flawed and struggling hero (or heroine), the kind of person who has to overcome their own dark side or face their insecurities in order to save the world.

7.Loki, the hero of The Trickster’s Lover and Honeymoon is a powerful and conflicted character. How much research did you have to carry out into the Norse legends before writing the novel?

I studied mythology for several years, so I’d already done quite a bit of research before I decided to put my hard-earned mythology chops to work writing a romance novel!

I tried to remain true to the original sources, with one major exception – I totally invented the Trial of Ӕsìlynd. Everything else, though, comes straight from the myths.

I did have to return to the texts quite a bit, especially once Caroline went to Asgard, and when Ragnarök began. My personal copy of the prose Edda is a dog-earned, scribbled mess at this point!

8.Why do you think that readers enjoy reading about ancient gods and goddesses and myths and legends?

Well, when I first started reading myths and legends as a kid, almost all the books included an explanation along these lines: “Ancient people didn’t understand how the world works, so they invented myths to explain these everyday phenomena.” So, as an example, the story of Hades and Persephone was merely their primitive way of explaining why the seasons change.

But I don’t buy that. I think myths are still popular today because they really speak to the human experience, which honestly hasn’t changed that much in several thousand years. To continue with Hades and Persephone, that myth is a lot more than an explanation for the seasons; it’s about the human, and especially the female, experience of leaving one family to start another, and trying to balance the call of romantic love against familial and other obligations.

Most gods and goddesses are complicated, flawed characters, and I believe that also helps to explain their persistence. Odin, for example, is pretty damn unpredictable. Sure, he’s a warrior, but he’s also someone who transforms himself into a snake and spend three nights sleeping with his enemy’s daughter to get what he wants. That kind of complexity is fascinating, as much so for modern readers as it must have been for the Vikings.

Finally, I think the persistence of myth also speaks to the universal power of a really excellent story. Spin a good yarn, and it lasts.

9.Have you any writing/publishing projects in the pipeline that you are able to share?

Why yes, I do have some projects to share!

First, I’ve got the Vali novel. I’m hoping to have that out this spring, and you can follow my website or subscribe to my newsletter for more updates.

Second, I’m really excited to announce that Less Than Three press is publishing a story of mine called The Night Watch. This is a bit of a departure for me; it’s a high fantasy romance between two male characters with nary a shred of mythology. This novella tells the story of Prince Liam, who returns to his kingdom after five years at the Academy to find an ailing king, an arranged marriage, and his closest childhood friend Cerdec, who is now his personal guard.

Finally, as usual, I’ve got a handful of projects I’m currently polishing, and another handful of projects out for submission.

10.Have you a message to readers?

Thank you!!! I’m so honored you’ve chosen to spend your precious time reading my stories. 🙂

Connect with the Author

https://sammacleod.wordpress.com/about-me/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100012016893561

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**Author Interviews** ~ Tamara Thorne and Alistair Cross

Regular readers of this blog know that Caroline, my BFF and co-blogger, and I love to read a variety of genres. Both of us have a penchant for dark and psychological reads. Since reading The Ghosts of Ravencrest (an erotic Gothic horror par excellence), by Tamara Thorne and Alistair Cross I have become a HUGE fan of their work.

Either writing alone or in partnership their work includes the paranormal, horror and dark, psychological thrillers such as their current collaboration Mother. Their writing, which can be downright S-C-A-R-Y, is often shocking and infused with dark humour, but is always a rollicking good read  and I love the devilish plot twists these authors inflict on their readers!

I was delighted at the chance of interviewing this writing duo and I hope that you find their candid responses to my questions as fascinating as I did. Tina ❤

Mother cover

1. Can you share with our readers a little about yourselves and your writing careers?

Tamara and Alistair both began writing around age eight  – both loved ghost stories most of all – and both wanted to be writers when they grew up. Tamara has been in print since 1991 and Alistair since 2012.

2. I understand that you have been collaborating since 2012, and have written, amongst other works, The Cliffhouse Haunting and The Ghosts of Ravencrest, the first book in The Ravenscrest Saga. How did you begin working together and what special elements do you each think the other brings to the partnership that distinguishes the works of Thorne and Cross?

Alistair became a fan of Tamara’s work in the 90s, and when social media sites like Facebook came along and made it easy to connect to others, he looked her up. Having just been published for the first time, Alistair was doing author interviews on his blog as a way of meeting other writers. Tamara was one of the first people he asked. We became fast friends and were brainstorming ideas for new books before we’d even conceived of the idea to officially write together. It flowed very naturally – it was simply meant to be. We soon found that our writing style – as well as our personal and professional ethics – was so remarkably similar that continuing on the path together was simply the instinctual thing to do. Alistair brings an intense work ethic to our virtual office while Tamara brings jolly good fun. We need each other for balance. And hard work. And fun

3. Why do you think there is such an appetite for horror and psychological thrillers amongst readers? TamaraWhat is it within the human psyche that craves such stories?

People crave (safe) danger. Danger fascinates us, but things like scary movies, horror novels, and roller coasters are a way of facing our fears without risking our lives. These things force us to explore those uncharted parts of ourselves which can teach us proper response in the face of real danger. It’s a survival mechanism. Avoidance of fear is fatal, and the human psyche understands this. Thus, it draws us toward the things that frighten us. Plus, scary books are just awesome. 

4. The flipside of this – why do you both enjoy writing in these genres?

Horror is a release from the everyday. Neither of us watches the news – real horror is too depressing. But fictional horror and suspense provides a rush akin to amusement park thrill rides. Fiction, by its very nature is escapist and, to us, there’s nothing better than a toe-curler to escape reality for a little while. We are especially partial to suspense and supernatural horror because ghosts, vampires, and assorted elementals are literary equivalents to a carnival where we can find lots of thrills and chills. In Mother, our heroine, Claire, starts with a turn on the merry-go-round, then soon ends up on a scary roller coaster and finally enters the dark ride, which is too frightening to be fun for her.

5. You must have both been asked this question in many forms before – but do you base any elements of your characters on anyone you know or are they purely fuelled by your imaginations?

AlistairEvery character is imaginary; it would be no fun for us to plunk down living people in our books! That said, we are the products of our lives and experiences. Everything around us, from sights, sounds, and tastes, to hoarders, psychopaths and ghosts are inspired by lifetimes of observation and experience.

  1. 6. Would you both like to tell us something about your latest release, Mother?

Mother is a psychological thriller in the vein of Psycho and Misery, with a pinch of Peyton Place and a dash of Gaslight. It concerns a young, expectant couple, Claire and Jason Holbrook, who’ve fallen on hard times, forcing them to move in with Claire’s estranged mother. Claire vowed to have no contact with the overbearing woman ever again, but Mother is thrilled at the prospect of a grandchild. At Mother’s, Claire and Jason begin experiencing things that make them determined to leave immediately … but when a cruel twist of fate makes leaving impossible, Claire becomes obsessed with her mother’s motives. Fantasy and fact blur together as her compulsion consumes her, and Jason wonders who the villain really is. When a cache of macabre family secrets is uncovered, Claire and Jason find the answers they’re looking for – answers that will change them forever … assuming anyone can get out of Mother’s house alive.

7.  Did you have to carry out any research into the issues explored in Mother, before writing the novel?

All books require research. Mother’s research was relatively easy compared to other books. It consisted primarily of a brush-up on sociopathic and narcissistic behaviors. We also researched topics like hoarding, epilepsy, flight schools, Catholic funerals, and ugly furniture from the 1970s and 80s. When we write books that include science or a good deal real history that must be woven into our fictional characters’ lives, as in our Ravencrest novels, the research is far more intensive. All fiction must have its roots in reality to keep it believable.

8.  I am delighted to learn that you host a horror themed internet radio show, Thorne and Cross Haunted Nights LIVE! What have been some of your favourite moments on the show to date?

There have been many great moments. We loved hearing The Walking Dead author Jay Bonansinga tell us his thoughts on why zombies are so popular, and Charlaine Harris’ stories about about being recognized in public were hilarious. We were laughing out loud when Christopher Rice told us what it was like for him to read his mom’s (Anne Rice) Sleeping Beauty series. Chet Williamson’s reading from his novel Psycho: Sanitarium gave us chills. Chatting about twisted family dynamics with Andrew Neiderman, who also authors the V.C. Andrews book series, was fascinating, and talking with Laurell K. Hamilton about vampires was a lot of fun. Those are just a few of our favorite moments. 

Mother teaser

9. Are there any collaborative projects in the pipeline that you are able to share?

As always, we’re working on the continuing Ravencrest Saga and have just released the second serialized installment titled, Dead of the Night. We are also working on a sequel to Tamara’s vampire novel, Candle Bay, which also serves as a continuation of Alistair’s The Crimson Corset. The Darling family of Candle Bay made appearances in Corset and that set the course for Candle Bay II – we decided we had to get our vamps together in a serious way. As soon as Candle Bay’s sequel is complete, we will begin work on the second book in our Trilogy of Terror. Mother was the first. The second is unrelated to Mother as far as characters are concerned, though we wouldn’t be surprised to see Father Andy show up, assuming we set the next book in Snapdragon, where Mother takes place. The Trilogy of Terror is made up of three psychological suspense novels that are more about human monsters than supernatural ones. On the side, we’re also both knee-deep in a pair of solo novels.

10. Have you a message to readers, or to writers who are thinking of branching out into penning horror/psychological thrillers?

We always say that the most important thing is to write what you love. If you love what you’ve written, others will too. Also, writing requires dedication and discipline. It’s easy to tell yourself you don’t have time to write, but if you want to be a serious writer, you have to create time.

 

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**RELEASE BLITZ & ARC REVIEW** for Hold Me Until Forever and Author Interview with Christina Phillips

Erotic Contemporary Romance

Adult/18+ read

Today it’s a huge welcome to Christina Phillips from Down Under! Christina will be releasing Hold Me Until Forever, the third and final instalment in her sizzling contemporary erotic romance series, the Grayson Brothers on January 4th. I was fortunate to be offered an ARC of this book and if you’d like to read my review, scroll down after our interview with Christina in which we quiz her about the series and her writing process.

I have been a fan of Christina’s work for years, whether she is writing historical, paranormal or contemporary romances. For me what distinguishes her work from that of others are how she writes her deliciously dominant alpha males who are always a perfect fit for the women who are destined to be theirs. If you’d like to read my reviews of some of Christina’s other books, I’ve included the links at the end of the post. Tina ❤

HMF

Blurb

She’s the only one he wants…and the one he can never have

Ella Clark has been in love with Alex Grayson forever. She’s tired of being invisible—or worse, being treated like his kid sister. If she can just get him to drop his iron-fisted control for two seconds, she’ll prove she knows exactly how to blow his mind.

Alex has been fighting his attraction to Ella since her should-have-been-innocent sweet sixteen kiss burned down his world. He’s damaged, and there’s no way he’ll ever drag her into his screwed up life. Until she offers him something he’s always craved—steamy, no-strings sex inside his exclusive BDSM club. Where she’ll be safe from the darkness that haunts him.

Except there’s nothing safe about being with Ella, and the more she gives, the harder it is to let her go. If he stays, he risks everything, but how can he walk away from the only woman he’s ever needed?

Author Interview

1. What inspired you to write the Grayson Brothers series? 

I’d wanted to write a connected series about brothers for some time, but it wasn’t until mid 2014 that the Grayson brothers suddenly appeared in my mind. They were hot, tough and had survived a brutal childhood and I was instantly hooked and had to find out more about them!

2. Did you base any elements of your heroes or heroines on anyone you know?  

Well, it’s a closely guarded secret that I have a slight crush on Henry Cavill and I’ve based a few heroes on him in the past (not only is that man beautiful he’s so versatile when it comes to heroes!) However, strangely enough, he wasn’t the inspiration behind any of my Grayson brothers.

3. In the three novels which make up the series, Hold Me Until Midnight, Hold Me Until Morning and now Hold Me Forever, the three Grayson brothers and the women they are destined to love are all very different. Have you a favourite couple, brother or heroine? 

Oh this is a hard question because I love each couple for different reasons. But if you’re really going to push me for an answer, then I’ll have to say Alex and Ella, in Hold Me Until Forever. They’ve known each other all their lives and Ella is literally the girl next door, who’s been secretly in love with Alex for years. As for Alex, he’s so consumed with guilt at what happened in the past that he’s convinced he doesn’t deserve her. I just love these two and desperately wanted them to have their happily-ever-after.

4. Whose book was the most challenging to write and why? 

Each book had their own challenges, but I always knew Alex’s book would be hard, because of his past and the barriers he’d erected around his heart. Unfortunately I was right! It took a long time to unravel the layers and reach the core of the man, but when I did I fell in love with him all over again. 🙂

5. What do you think makes a good hero and heroine?

I like a heroine who isn’t afraid to go for what she wants, in her own way, and who is the hero’s match in every way that counts. As for the hero, I do love a man with a sense of humour. It doesn’t matter how powerful, wealthy or bad boy hot he is, I just love it when he has that moment of not taking himself seriously. And I have to admit I do like it when the hero needs to do a bit of a grovel at the end of the book!

6. Why do you think most romance readers have such an appetite for alpha males and are they fulfilling to write?  

There are several degrees of alpha male, but I think what makes them so fascinating is their air of danger, their conviction that they’ll never fall in love and then of course their utter devotion and loyalty to the woman who finally captures their heart. I love writing about them, and have a special sense of glee when their heroine ends up bringing them to their knees. 🙂

7. The hero in your latest Grayson novel, Alex, has a penchant for BDSM. Did you (cough, cough) have to carry out any research into this world before writing the novel? 😉 

Heh 🙂 Well, I do have a vivid imagination which helps, but I also did some online research. Also an author friend did a series of interviews with Doms on her blog last year, which was very enlightening.

8. Have you any writing/publishing projects in the pipeline that you are able to share? 

I have a few things in the pipeline that I’m very excited about! I’m in a second TAKEN boxed set with Cathleen Ross and Mel Teshco which will be out very soon, and I also have a release with Tule Publishing for their new erotic romance line, Eros, in January – Every Breath You Take. The hero is a tattooed bad boy, who after five years meets up again with the one girl he can never have. I also have a super-secret project in the works that I can’t wait to share!

9. Have you a message to readers? 

Thank you for reading and enjoying my books! And thank you for taking the time to let me know. It really does mean so much! Yes, authors are a needy bunch!!!

Forever 1

My Review ~ ***** FIVE stars

Steamy and Heartfelt!

Hold Me Until Forever is a combustible mix of one damaged alpha male with a penchant for BDSM and a long-time female friend he has forbidden himself to lust after but who desires him like no other! I just LOVED this read from the off and although all of the books in Christina Phillips’ Grayson Brothers series are fab reads this is my favourite: I like my heroes to be alpha, brooding and tortured and Alex fits the bill perfectly, and Ella is a perfect foil for him: understanding his dark past and being spunky enough to stand up to him.

Alex has had an unbelievably tragic childhood, fearing his emotional responses to situations and likes to keep people at a distance. This is especially so when it comes to relationships with the opposite sex, where he is careful to keep his emotional barriers well and truly up, lest he loses control. Excalibur, the BDSM club which he part owns, is where he goes to have his sexual needs fulfilled, knowing that he can, through a combination of control and safe words, ensure the safety of his submissives.

Despite his attraction to Ella he has treated her like a younger sister for years to protect her from his dark nature. Alex has been hoping that Ella, who works at his security firm, will hook up with his brother Cooper. However, when Cooper, as well as his brother Jackson show that they have found their own soulmates, things are about to change. Alex’s icy façade that he has maintained when it comes to Ella begins to crack and when she offers him total submission at his BDSM club, he cannot resist. Yet rather than this being a one off experience for them, both crave more.

I felt so much for both characters. Ella understands Alex’s issues, having witnessed his past, and is very giving emotionally. However, there is a limit to even what she can endure. Maybe Alex is just too broken to ever want a normal relationship? For his part Alex begins to unravel and is forced to face his demons from the past. It remains to be seen whether he will be able to cope with what Ella really wants, a relationship with all of him, not just the part confined to his club, however much she adores the ecstasy he brings her to (and the scenes between them are damn hot)!

The characters, plot, dialogue and the pacing in this book all came together perfectly for me and Christina Phillips once again excels in writing the most delightfully erotic and heartfelt love-making scenes. The book works very well as a standalone, but if you enjoy steamy contemporary romances why stop at one Grayson brother when you can enjoy reading about all three? You can find out about Cooper and Jackson’s romances in the first two novels in the series, Hold Me Until Midnight and Hold Me Until Morning.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note that a copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Purchase Links

Amazon UK   Amazon US

About the Author

Christina Phillips is an ex-pat Brit who now lives in sunny Western Australia with her high school sweetheart and their family. She enjoys writing paranormal, historical and contemporary romance where the stories sizzle and the heroine brings her hero to his knees.

She is a triple finalist in the 2013 ARRA Awards for Favorite Erotic Romance, and finalist in the 2012 ARRA Awards for Favorite Paranormal Romance. She is published by Entangled, Ellora’s Cave and Berkley Heat and has dipped her toe in the indie pubbed waters. She is a member of the Romance Writers of Australia, Romance Writers of America, the Dark Side Down Under Group blog and Historical Hearts Group blog. She helped establish the inaugural Professional Development for Authors program and has been a member of the editorial team for the RWA’s monthly newsletter, Hearts Talk. She loves hearing from her readers!

Christina is addicted to good coffee, expensive chocolate and bad boy heroes. She is also owned by three gorgeous cats who are convinced the universe revolves around their needs. They are not wrong.

Connect with Christina

Website

Facebook

Twitter

For our reviews of some of Christina’s other books click on the links:

Hold Me Until Midnight

Hold Me Until Morning

Bloodlust Denied

Willow (Secret Confessions: Sydney Housewives #9)

Taken by the Sheikh* (Boxed Set), by Christina Phillips, Mel Treshco and Cathleen Ross

Her Savage Scot, Highland Warrior Chronicles #1

Her Vengeful Scot (Highland Warrior Chronicles #2)

 

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**AUTHOR INTERVIEW/COVER REVEAL** ~ Fire and SteeI Anthology (books 1-5 of The Soldier Chronicles), by David Cook

David Cook, Author of Historical Fiction

Fire and Steel Final eBook Cover Large (2)

Today we welcome historical novelist David Cook to our blog. David has just released the anthology Fire and Steel, which brings together books 1-5 of The Soldier Chronicles for the first time. I love to lose myself in a historical read and I therefore jumped at the opportunity to pose some searching questions on the anthology and find out more about David’s novels and his writing career. The e-book is now available to purchase on Amazon and we are delighted that David has permitted us to share the gorgeous cover of the the forthcomomg print version, which you can find below. The book will be available in print from December 1st.

The novellas take the reader from the 1798 Irish Rebellion to the British struggles on the continent against the French army under Napoleon, to his return from exile and the fateful battle of Waterloo. The content has been revised and the series and dialogue expanded. Indeed, David bills the collection as ‘one big book of non-stop action, adventure, intrigue, but all set against real historical events.’

Scroll down to find out more about David and the collection. Tina ❤

Author Interview

David cook

1. Welcome David and thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to tell us more about Fire and Steel and your love of the past and writing.You clearly have a passion for this tumultuous period of history. What inspired your love of this period and what is it about it and its military history in particular that appeals to you?

It all came from my father. He hand-painted his own model army and gave it to me. It’s wonderful and a testament to one man’s devotion to painting, military research and war gaming. My love of history all comes from him too.

2. I expect that you spent many hours devoted to research to enable you to write the books in the series. How do you carry out your research? Is it mainly internet and or archive based or do you also visit the places and battlefields portrayed in the stories?

I’d love to visit all the places I write about, some I have, some not so. I think it’s important to. I will attempt that when I have time and money. However, I search online for images of the place, use my reference books and visit museums and libraries to fill in the missing gaps.

3. I have to ask this as I love to watch historical re-enactors! Are you a member of a re-enactment society or have you considered joining one? Have re-enactors helped or inspired your writing? 

I’m not a member, but it’s always exciting to meet people who are. You feel their love of what they do and do learn from them. They are the best educators. I learned a lot of what happens on the battlefield from re-enactors, not films. The gun smoke, the noise, the commands, the visuals. It has been very inspiring to watch the bicentenary battles of Waterloo back in June. I have hours of cavalry and infantry manoeuvring and battling on video from then, it was a fantastic experience.

4. Your books are full of individuals who perform heroic deeds. Are any of the fictional characters in them based on real life historical figures you have come across in your research?

No, I’ve not based any of the characters on real people. But there are many people who I admire from history, Duke of Wellington, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Queen Elizabeth I, Shakespeare, Sir Winston Churchill, Marie Curie…

5. Have you got a favourite character out of the five books that comprise Fire and Steel? 

No, I haven’t a particular favourite. To me, they are all my beloved.

6. What is your writing process like? Do you plan your books and develop character profiles in detail before beginning a new book in earnest or do your stories and characters take on a life of their own?

Research is never-ending. I enjoy it, but writing is the best part. I sketch out a rough idea what the story will be and let the characters take over. Sounds chaotic? Well, I’ve known authors who plot everything down the smallest detail. I’ve never been able to. I just let the writing flow. It seems to work.

7. How long have you been writing and would you like to tell us about other books you have written or are working on?

I first started to write when I was 16, then through my twenties, but it was in 2006 that i sat down and started to write my first novel. It’s called The Desert Lion and is about the British liberation of Egypt, 1801. From there I wrote The Wolfshead, a story of Robin Hood. I have written two novella’s following the events of The Wolfshead, a Richard III story, but they are all unpublished. I am working my way through them as I type, hoping to try the traditional publishing route for The Desert Lion.

8. How do you fit writing in around everything else and do you write every day?

At the moment it’s a hobby. I’ve released 5 novella’s, a free collection of short-stories and now Fire and Steel as a novel, but my goal is to reach readers and get word of mouth. It’s not about money for me, it’s purely pleasure. My dream is to be published. One day…. 

9. What do you like most about being an author and what do you find the most challenging? 

The fact that I can just sit and write about my characters and history. The challenging part is the research and the marketing of the work, the exciting bit is the writing. I find it thoroughly relaxing. I love connecting to readers.

10. Social media – love it or loathe it, it appears to be here to stay. Do you view it as your friend or foe or a double-edged sword for today’s authors?

For me it’s a necessary tool. I don’t think I use it to its full potential though. It’s useful and I couldn’t live without it, but I don’t spend hours on it.

11. Have you a message for readers?

I hope you enjoy my work. As a fledging indie author I really do appreciate it when readers leave me a comment about my work or a review. Reviews on Amazon and Goodreads really do help. Thank you for investing your time reading something of mine.

Thank you David for taking time out to tell us about Fire and Steel and share your experiences with us. We wish you the very best with your writing career.

Fire and Steel Anthology

(books 1-5 of The Soldier Chronicles) 

Fire and Steel Print Book

Book Blurb

Fire and Steel is a compilation of the first 5 books of The Soldier Chronicles historical series. The stories; all novella’s, are snap-shots of life as a different soldier in the period of long war 1793-1815. All fiction, but very much based on actual events. The kindle version is out now, the paperback will be out 1st December from Amazon:

Liberty or Death
It is the height of the 1798 Irish Rebellion and someone is murdering Protestants and Catholics indiscriminately. As Ireland burns, Major Lorn Mullone must find out the truth and apprehend the killer before it’s too late.

Heart of Oak
Meet Captain of Marines Simon Gamble, once seen in battle, never forgotten. A professional soldier, daring and brave, but he is certainly no gentleman. He leads a fearsome company marines who have been tasked to capture a formidable fortress held in enemy hands.

Blood on the Snow
Holland, 1794, and all hope is lost. Disease, famine and a winter of unrivalled malice has punished the small retreating British Army as it follows the long road home. But freedom for the survivors doesn’t come easy, because between them and the ports, the enemy waits.

Marksman
Rifleman Arthur Cadoc, stranded in the chaos of war, now fights for the Spanish guerrilleros. With only his training, wits and his trusty Baker rifle, Cadoc proves that he is not only a daring and a deadly marksman, but a man born for fighting against the odds.

Death is a Duty
June 1815, and Napoleon Bonaparte has returned to plunge Europe into war once again. During the course of the campaign, Regimental-Sergeant Major Adam Bannerman of the 42nd Royal Highlanders uncovers a dark tale of murder, and must use his wits to survive not only the French assaults, but men on his own side who want him dead.

E-book Links:

Amazon US  Amazon UK

Connect with the Author

Goodreads

Facebook

Twitter

http://thewolfshead.tumblr.com

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**Spotlight & Interview** ~ Roya Carmen, author of **The Ground Rules**

Steamy Romance with a Dash of Sass

Today we welcome author, Roya Carmen, whose strap line of Steamy Romance with a Dash of Sass really intrigued me! Roya is the author of The Ground Rules, a sizzling erotic romance series which is receiving rave reviews, and she has kindly offered to share some information on her latest releases and give us some insider information on her writing journey! Scroll down for the interview and find out more about The Ground Rules. Tina ❤

TheGroundRules_CoverSMALL

Two beautiful couples. Five simple rules. One hot mess.

Author Interview

1.Hi Roya, would you like to tell us something about yourself and what prompted you to become a writer?

I am mom of three who enjoys art, reading and writing. I wrote when I was younger, but kind of lost touch with my writing when I went to school to study Graphic Design. For years, my world was all about art. But in 2002, I took a creative writing class and it got the juices going again. And in 2008, I started to write romance, hoping to become a Harlequin writer.

2.What was your inspiration for your latest release and to what extent is it based on your own experiences or those of people you know?

I actually wrote a blog post about this very recently. The concept was inspired by a story a friend told me about his sister who was married and in an open relationship. What if? I thought. What if someone like me, an ordinary mom and wife who has been with her husband for years and who was still very much in love, just happened to meet the most enigmatic and beautiful man she’d ever seen and be thrown into such a situation? What kind of drama would ensue? How could she resist the temptation? How could she not fall in love?

3. Would you like to share anything about your publishing journey? I read on your webpage that you have novels on Wattpad, have self- published and are published with Omnific.

I self-published a short contemporary romance in 2014 entitled Back to You. I found my publisher for The Ground Rules Trilogy by sheer luck, when I was shopping at Wal-Mart and picked up a copy of Sylvain Reynard’s Gabriel’s Inferno. I also have two short erotic romances on Wattpad under @royastories.

4. What type of scenes do you like to write the most and what are the most challenging?

I enjoy writing scenes where the hero and heroine are fighting – I guess I enjoy drama! I also like writing sex scenes, I must admit. I like to carry the scene through, because I don’t like to be a tease. Lol! The hardest scenes are the sad scenes.

5. How much easier has the success of FSOG made it to publish in the erotic romance genre and what barriers do you think remain that need to be broken? Why do you think that this genre has proved so popular?

FSOG has introduced so many readers to erotic romance, myself included. It’s okay now to say you read erotic romance. I can talk to my sister-in-law or my friend about FGOG over dinner. The e-book market is great – so many indie authors like myself are among the top titles. But we need more new authors in traditionally published erotic romance.

6. What about research for your novels? You must have had a lot of fun with this!

The Ground Rules is set in Chicago. I’ve only been there briefly and I think it’s a very sexy city. I had to do lots of research online, and I hope I didn’t mess up too much, but I’m sure I did. There are a lot of references to actual locations in the book, and I also made up some fictional ones. Book 2 of the trilogy also takes us to Hawaii and New York. Yay! I like to write about places I’ve been. My other romances are set in Boston, Bar Harbour, Maine and Seattle… all place I’ve been.

7. I noticed on your webpage that you have a number of novels published on Wattpad. How useful is this publishing platform for new writers?

I like the interaction on Wattpad. It’s perfect for shorter stories you might not necessarily want to publish. It introduces me to new readers and writers as well.

8. What is your writing process like? To what extent do you plan the characters and plot and how much do you just let the words flow?

First, I have an idea… a concept. Then, I create the characters (for this I use extensive character profiles). Then, I create a thorough outline, consisting of scenes in bullet point form. Then I start writing each scene – each scene has its own outline in bullet form. And then, I put on my earphones, listen to my music, and let the words flow!! Sometimes the scene goes to places I hadn’t expected. And I’m like… wow! That was hot! There’s nothing better than being in the zone. I save all editing until the end. Needless to say, the first draft is a dog’s breakfast.

9. Is there a method to your writing schedule? Do you write when your muse calls or more regularly?

I write morning time, or occasionally when the muse hits.

10. Have you any useful tips for any wannabe writers who are teetering on the edge but have yet to take the plunge?

Go for it!! But only do it if you really love it! Because if you don’t, it will show in your writing. You should always be passionate about your writing.

11. Who are your favourite authors?

I read mostly commercial women’s/chick lit and contemporary romance. Some of my fave authors are Sophie Kinsella, Jane Green, Helen Fielding, Jodi Picoult, Anita Shreve, Nicholas Sparks. And when I’m feeling a little naughty, I read erotic romance. Some of my faves are Christina Lauren, Sylvain Reynard, EL James, Bella Andre, Harlequin Blaze and at the moment, I’m discovering lots of new indie authors and reading more books on my Kindle.

12. If you have a WIP, is there anything that you’d like to share with us about it, pretty please?

Right now, I’m working on final edits to Book 3 of The Ground Rules. But I also have a notebook of ideas for upcoming trilogy series. I’m debating between two concepts: One centres around three sibling and the country side, and the other is set in Paris. And who knows, I might end up tackling something completely different… whatever gets my blood flowing the most.

13. Have you a message for readers?

Keep reading!! And thanks so much to all those who have read my stories! ❤

Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule. We wish you the best of luck with the release, your career as a writer and life in general. ❤

Book Blurb for The Ground Rules

TheGroundRules_CoverSMALL

1. Don’t sleep around.

2. Don’t kiss and tell.

3. Be nice.

4. Don’t text or call.

5. Don’t fall in love.

The rules were simple…until they weren’t.

I have everything I ever thought I could want: a nice home, a job I love, two beautiful girls, and my husband, Gabe – my high school sweetheart who still rocks my world. If you ask anyone to describe me they would say, “Oh, Mirella? She’s such a nice girl.” And that’s true…until a mysterious, peculiar man and his beautiful wife enter our lives.

Weston and Bridget Hanson are no ordinary couple—they’re stunning, enigmatic, and sexy as hell. During the course of one unexpected evening, my ordinary world is turned upside down. How could it not be when Weston and Bridget propose the unthinkable? And when the unthinkable is so very tempting, giving in becomes inevitable.

It sounds so logical and simple. Just five rules and we can all have what we desire. But the heart doesn’t follow rules, and now passion, jealousy, and confusion threaten to tear everything apart.

Two beautiful couples. Five simple rules. One hot mess.

Purchase Links

Amazon.ca    Amazon.com   Amazon.uk

Connect with the Author

http://royacarmen.com/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100007361415244

https://twitter.com/royacarmen

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25521134-the-ground-rules

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How to Kill a Minority Shareholder and get away with it, by Rob Watkins (Author Interview and Review)

Author Interview

Where I dig deep into the mind of Rob Watkins, author of How to Kill a Minority Shareholder and get away with it!

Genre: Revenge Thriller

Rob Watkins has recently published his first novel, How to Kill a Minority Shareholder and get away with it. I recently interviewed Rob in person and quizzed him on its publication, his writing and his future projects. A synopsis of the book and a review follows the interview. We wish Rob every success with the publication of this, his first novel. 🙂

rob watkinsThe title of this book really intrigued me from the off as did the synopsis as I am partial to tales where the underdog fights back and triumphs.  I invited Rob to tell us about himself and what prompted him to write it. Rob explained that although he has worked in many different roles throughout his working life – his current occupation is that of a painter and decorator, not once did he envisage that he would write a novel!

It is clear that the inspiration and compulsion for How to Kill a Minority Shareholder and Get Away with it was very much a personal one. Rob acknowledges that the first third of the story flowed from his experiences of witnessing someone very close to him suffer the crushing blow of having their successful career brought to an abrupt end, due to what he describes as the deliberate and questionable actions of others. 

The novel’s main themes are pretty dark: greed, jealousy, bullying, mental cruelty, violence and revenge, reflecting human nature at its worst. When questioned further about these themes, Rob stated that he finds it difficult to comprehend how the legal system can do little to protect employees subjected to situations such as those experienced by Deb, the heroine of his novel. He stressed how he wanted the book to serve as a warning to those in the corporate world, so that they take any necessary steps to prevent a similar event befalling them.

Although the issues raised in the novel are serious ones, there is a great deal of humour peppered throughout, much of it dark. Rob stated that the final two thirds of the book, where the hero Bob begins to contemplate and exact his revenge upon his wife’s persecutors, allowed him more scope to introduce humour into the narrative. One of my personal favourites is the passage where Bob dreams of exterminating his wife’s persecutors, in bloody technicolour glory! It comes at the point when I believed that those who destroyed the professional reputation and the life of Bob’s wife deserved to meet a grisly end! Rob underlined how he enjoyed injecting humorous elements into his novel, believing it important to lighten the mood for the reader. The passage in the novel where Bob attempts (with comical consequences) to secure the pontoons in the Venice canal so that his victim is forced out of his water taxi and onto dry land was one of Rob’s favourite passages.

Rob maintained that he endeavoured to illustrate to the reader how and why Bob was spurred on by a desire to avenge the wrongs that had been done to his wife. Before reaching this point Bob had tried to seek assistance from every avenue available to man or woman; personal entreaties; legal assistance and media coverage, but to no avail. Indeed, events soon spiral out of control and lead him deeper and deeper into darker actions and questionable moral behaviour. Rob stated that he was inspired by some of the scenes portrayed by the character William Foster played by Michael Douglas in the 1990’s film Falling Down. I remember this film well and think that he succeeded in doing this perfectly.  Throughout the novel I was constantly torn by the question of whether I believed Bob to be the hero or the villain of the piece! I will not say which side of the fence I opted for – you will need to read Rob’s work and navigate the moral dilemma it presents for yourself!

The metamorphosis that Bob goes through, from supportive husband to master avenger fascinated me and I was particularly interested in how adept Bob became at planning and executing the technical aspects of his ‘hits.’ Rob stressed that he tried to inject realism into his work, especially with regards to the systematic and ordered way Bob eliminated those who had wronged his wife. Rob explained that his penchant for crime thrillers helped to fire his imagination, particularly when it came to ensuring that Bob’s activities left no traceable clues for forensics to link him with a particular crime scene.

As much of the book was autobiographical Rob stated that he rarely experienced writer’s block. The challenge was not writing too much rather than too little. Rob reported that once he had the rough outline worked out, the main task was to weave the various elements of the narrative together, to create a book that offered an enjoyable reading experience but at the same time conveyed Rob’s message about how those in the corporate world should take care not to fall prey to the jealousy and greed of others.

Rob makes us look at our own friends and acquaintances and begs the question “how much would it take for the people you know and trust, and class as best friends, to betray and denounce you to get a share of the pie or increase the size of their slice?” Even when they know the “pie” is only there thanks to you? The answer, and how small the amount might be, may make you look at your closest friends and people around you in a new slightly sinister light and will shock even the most cynical of readers.

The book is Rob’s first published novel, taking four years to write, and I asked him if he had any experience of creative writing prior to penning it. Surprisingly, given the literary quality of the work, Rob stated that he had no prior experience, although he conceded that he has always been artistic, having attended art college in his youth. Although the characters per se are purely fictional, they nevertheless reflect Rob’s own experiences of a lifetime of people watching! Rob is particularly well traveled, often to places off the main tourist map and writes with authority about a number of these far flung places in the novel. Thailand in particular features heavily, and it is there where he met a number of acquaintances who inspired many of the characters in the book, including the Lady Boy owner of the brothel and the expat ex-military personnel whose activities sail close to the wind!

Rob explained that as this was his first novel he wanted to find an established publisher, rather than self-publish, partly because he felt it would validate the book to himself and also because the world of publishing and book marketing was very much outside his realm of experience. He feels very fortunate in that he found a publisher in Book Guild (now part of the Troubadour publishing group) and a very supportive and enthusiastic editorial team.

What of Rob’s own reading material and future works? Rob’s favourite genres to read are sci-fi, fantasy and crime and thriller books, although he laments that since becoming a writer he does not have he chance to read as extensively as in the past. He confirmed that he has another work in the pipeline, also set in the corporate world, involving a character who is being blackmailed and set up to be the fall guy. This work he explains contains more humour, although it too deals with questionable morals and business practices. He hopes to progress this further at some point.

As to all the readers out there, Rob very much hopes that they have as much fun reading his novel as he had writing it; that they laugh and cry at what he writes and that they learn something from it.

Disclaimer: All the characters mentioned in the above interview and in the author’s work, How To Kill A Minority Shareholder and get away with it are purely fictitious.

Book Blurb

Deb had worked and fought her way from council estate to a position that promised a comfortable retirement for her and her husband, Bob, and would make all their sacrifices over the years worthwhile. Her skill, dedication and knowledge had enabled her to take a failing, small family business she had joined a quarter century before and turn it into an international empire. She had made her boss and the shareholders multi-millionaires. On paper, even Deb would walk away with a few million when it came time to retire.

At the happiest and proudest point of her hard-working life, Deb’s evil boss, Ms Summer Ponsenbury, after twenty-five years of festering, hidden jealousy, shattered Deb’s world. With the help of her unscrupulous cohorts, Summer took everything she had promised. She destroyed Deb’s reputation, took her rewards, trashed Deb’s achievements and dumped her at rock bottom.

All concerned believed they were above the law. They were too powerful and too rich to have to worry about Deb getting justice. They thought no one would care… they were wrong. They had forgotten about Bob. The fight was just about to start.

Review

A Dark and Humorous Revenge Thriller *****

I am drawn to tales of where the underdog fights back and triumphs, and this gripping read fits the bill! It dramatizes how Bob, after witnessing how his wife’s business associates deliberately destroy her credibility and career, avenges her by making them pay with the ultimate price, their lives.

The first third of the novel illustrates how easy it can be for those in the corporate world to destroy the life and reputation of another human being. Bob’s wife, Deborah, a brilliant and successful businesswoman, has dragged herself up from her humble beginnings to reach top management. If Deb has a fault it is that she is too trusting of others. She is secretly resented by all around her, who use her to further their own careers, at the same time despising her for her competence and intellect. This hatred and jealousy goes so deep that one woman, the villain of the piece, Summer Ponsenbury actively sets out to destroy her, urging others wield the knife on her behalf or sit passively on the side-lines.

In many regards, the reader is presented with a very negative version of the human condition, delving deep into greed, jealousy, bullying, mental cruelty, violence and revenge. Yet the read is not devoid of humour, albeit much of it dark! Bob’s metamorphosis, as he goes from supportive and angry husband to avenger extraordinaire. is at the heart of the final two thirds of the novel and the author executes the narrative with flair. It is up to the reader to decide whether or not the central character, Bob, is the hero or the villain of the piece. Many of the descriptions are very visual and this aspect coupled with the personal drama and humour make the book ideal for  TV adaptation.

The read will appeal to thriller readers who are looking for a satisfying read which delves deep into the psyche of its characters, is peppered with dark humour and which contains a serious message on human nature for us all.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note, a copy of the book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Goodreads

Purchase Links

Amazon US  Amazon UK

Connect with the Author

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rob-Watkins/e/B00XNQSSS4

http://www.facebook.com/100008589104341

 

 

 

 

 

 

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**INTERVIEW** Interview with Bestselling Author, Howard Kaplan: Bullets of Palestine (The Jerusalem Spy Series #2)

Bullets of Palestine (The Jerusalem Spy Series Book 2)We are absolutely overwhelmed to be interviewing espionage thriller author, Howard Kaplan, for a second time with regard to his second book of The Jerusalem Spy series, Bullets of Palestine. You may remember we interviewed the best selling author last October when his first book of the series, The Damascus Cover, was about to be filmed as a movie.

DAMASCUS COVER, KaplanWith the author’s personal experiences that inspired The Damascus Cover, and with stars such as Jonathan Reis Meyers (Match Point, The Tudors), Jürgen Prochnow (Das Boot, The Da Vinci Code), Navid Negahban (Homeland, character Abu Nazir), Igal Naor (The Honourable Woman), and Sir John Hurt, we are very excited about it’s forthcoming release! For more on the film visit: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3457508/  With the movie now in post-production and many people awaiting it’s release, now is a great time to check out both books!

Bullets of Palestine (The Jerusalem Spy series, Book 2)

Bullets of Palestine (The Jerusalem Spy Series Book 2)

Synopsis:

Two agents. Two opposing sides.

Israeli Agent Shai is dispatched to eliminate a terrorist threat. To succeed in his mission Shai must win the trust of Palestinian Agent Ramzy who will help him gain access to the infamous and dangerous Abu Nidal.

Shai is under orders to kill Ramzy when the mission ends. Instead, they forge a friendship that transcends the hatreds of their heritage. Loyalties are tested. Will they capture Abu Nidal or betray each other? In a conflict where both sides dehumanize each other, two extremely human men, are caught in the cross-hairs of the larger war.

Buy at Amazon US and Amazon UK

INTERVIEW

Hello Howard, Welcome back to A Reader’s Review Blog. The last time we interviewed you for The Damascus Cover you certainly opened our eyes with your fantastic travel and life experiences. Thank you so much for your time and speaking with us again.

1. The last time we ‘spoke’ you were about to visit Casablanca on the film set of The Damascus Cover. How was your experience?

I spent a fabulous week in Casablanca and went out every day on the ten hour shoot. I’m beyond fortunate at the caliber of the cast. John Hurt was not there while I was, but I saw a lot of the romantic scenes shot with Jonathan Rhys Meyers and Olivia Thirlby. Jonny, as JRM likes to be called, is intense, passionate and a perfectionist. His cover is Hans Hoffman, and he does the entire film with a remarkable German accent, his hair dyed blonde. A language coach from Berlin was on the set full time and listened to every take. Both of them were zealous that none of his Irish brogue slip into the German accented English. At breakfast in the hotel, I asked the German actor, Jurgen Prochnow (Das Boot, DaVinci Code) who plays a former Nazi in Damascus how it sounded. With a smile, he said, “Familiar.” Thirlby, best known as the sister in Juno, was particularly interesting. Unlike Jonny who hit the same delivery on take after take, Olivia roamed and tried each one a little differently until she and the director found a remarkable spot in both dialog and facial expressions. The producer told me I’d be bored and want to head off to the more exotic Marrakesh or Fez, but I stayed on set the entire week I was there.

 

2. Shortly after your visit to Casablanca the 2nd edition of Bullets of Palestine (The Jerusalem Spy series #2) was released. Could you tell us when the first edition was published, and if it brought back some memories for you from that time?

 

Bullets of Palestine, first published in 1987, is set 10 years after Damascus. What I was most reminded of in rereading it was all the locales I visited throughout the Middle East and Europe, such as Albufeira on the Portuguese coast to research events that actually happened there, in this case, the shooting at the Socialist International there. This was during Israel’s War with Lebanon and the army took me into Lebanon for a day, as part of a foreign press junket. I did not make it as far as Beirut then, though I had been in Beirut years earlier, but we reached Sidon on the coast and then on the way back to Israel I was able to visit the outdoor Ansar Prison Camp which the Israelis had set up just inside Lebanon. In truth reading it and reliving all this was more fun than I expected, as like many writers I’m among my harshest critics.

3. The bigger picture of Bullets of Palestine is the character, (Israeli) Agent Shai trying to eliminate a terrorist threat, however it is also a story of a growing friendship, between Shai and (Palestinian) Agent Ramzy, and how that friendship is tested to it’s limits. Albeit, not on the same scale of things, being a man of extensive travel, have you experienced a testing/trying relationship due to cultural or religious differences?

I traveled freely to Arab villages in the West Bank and a number of those scenes and meals have made it into Bullets. I’ve spent a lot of time with Palestinians in the Old City of Jerusalem. Recently a Palestinian merchant I’ve bought silk carpets from over the years took me on a tour of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the back alleys of the Arab Quarter. This spring, after the shoot in Casablanca, I went to Jerusalem. Unlike the characters in my novel I have not had a battle with trust with people from a different culture. I find if you approach people with interest in their world, they’re generally eager to share it with you.

4. Are there completely new characters in Bullets of Palestine, making it a stand alone read, or is there a cross reference with the characters or story with The Damascus Cover?

The common thread between the two books is the Colonel, the head of the Israeli secret service, who is the puppet master in both novels and is played in the film by John Hurt. I created new protagonists for Bullets, because while Damascus dealt with the conflict between Israel and its nation state neighbors, I wanted now to turn to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which is the great challenge for both societies. So I created a Palestinian terrorist-novelist, based on a real person, Ghassan Kanafani, who is well known in the Arab world though not in the West. He was so dangerous as a writer that the Israelis blew him up in a car bomb in Beirut. For his Israeli counterpart, I used a very old friend of mine from Jerusalem, Avraham Infeld, as the template. He’s President Emeritus of Hillel worldwide on college campuses, and a larger than life exuberant guy. I wanted characters who were the salt of the earth, deeply ingrained in their own cultures and at the same time thoughtful contemplative men. So I drew on real such people.

5. Are you aware of any plans for Bullets of Palestine to be filmed? Do you think the success of The Damascus Cover will have any bearing on this?

Both the producer and director of the film have asked and have copies of Bullets now, but they’re focused on finishing this film which is in post production. I expect it to hit theaters early in 2016. Sure success matters a lot, it causes people to knock on your door, or the lack of it, to not open theirs.

6. You have some photographs on your Facebook page of meeting the cast and crew? Were there any highlights that you’d like to share?

Navid Negahban who played Abu Wazir in Homeland plays General Sarraj, the head of the Syrian Secret Service, in my film. He arrived in Casablanca a couple of days after I did and they fitted him with a black wig. Since I’m bald I asked if I could have it after the shoot. We had a lot of fun joking about it and someone online photoshopped a picture of me with it on. Jonny is more private, for example ate breakfast in his hotel room rather than the dining room, but I got to spend some time with him between takes. He’s remarkable, left school I think at something like 7th grade but is an autodidact. He can converse easily on a vast range of subjects and in several languages. It was interesting too to watch him with all the people who approached him, many young Moroccan women who wanted a photo with him. He obliged them all. He was particularly charming with children, and you’ll see a photo on my Facebook author page where he’s with the daughter of the owner of the carpet factory where we shot that day. The little girl was nervous and he charmed her into letting me take the photo for her father.

7. Although a story of defence, friendship and loyalties, are there any moments of love/romance in Bullets of Palestine, as you had in The Damascus Cover?

The love stories in Bullets are very different than the one in Damascus. In Damascus, Ari is recently separated from his wife and begins a new torrid romance with someone he’s not sure he can trust. The Palestinian character, Ramzy, in Bullets is in a wonderful marriage but struggling with the difficulties of being gone so much, always in danger, and trying to maintain a home life. The Israeli, Shai, lost his wife in a car accident, has begun a new relationship at home with a younger woman who works in administration inside the Service. It is new love, but there too, like his Palestinian counterpart, they are separated more than together and feel the strain.

8. Are there any moments in Bullets of Palestine that you have based loosely on your own life experiences?

Bullets is not at all based on my life, though it is vastly based on real life events. The Palestinian and Israeli are edged into working together to capture Abu Nidal, who was in fact, the most dangerous terrorist of the 1980s, and a real person. The novel opens with the assassination of the Israeli Ambassador to Great Britain, Shlomo Argov, which is an historical event. Abu Nidal wanted to goad Israeli Prime Minister, Arik Sharon, into invading Lebanon to crush the PLO, who Bu Nidal viewed as too moderate. He succeeded. I land my Palestinian character, Ramzy, in the Sabra and Shatilla refugee camps when the Israelis surrounded the camps lit the night sky for the Christian Phalange fighters so they could eliminate the PLO fighters hiding in the refugee camps. This too is an historical event. The fighters had already fled and Ramzy witnesses the massacre of old men, women and children by the Lebanese Christians as the Israelis paved the way unaware the fighters were gone. It tests Ramzy to remain working with the Israelis. Then too, unbeknownst to Ramzy, his budding Israeli friend has been ordered to kill him once Abu Nidal is dead.

9. Despite not reading too much fiction yet on the threat of terrorism, I am an avid fan of the tv series Homeland and 24. Do you tend to watch movies/tv programmes in this genre? If so, which ones are your favourite?

I love great suspense films and TV. Emphasis on “great.” Homeland is great, one of the best things of the genre ever done. I watched the Maggie Gyllenthall miniseries The Honourable Woman. She’s marvelous. Igal Naor who played Shlomo in that show is also in my film as a Syrian General and the nemesis of Navid Negahban. But the miniseries was full of cliff hangers and turns meant to be exciting but ultimately were impossible to both follow and believe, as were all the complications. Gary Oldman did an honourable turn as George Smiley in Tinker Tailor Solider Spy but it is such a magnificent and dense book that that too was very hard to follow. The earlier 7- part British mini-series with Alec Guinness of the same LeCarre novel is a wonder to behold. The miniseries Dig set in Jerusalem was a mess and unwatchable. Again, some writers and directors think that throwing nonsense cliffhangers at the end of episode creates suspense but ultimately it creates annoyance. Great characters are crucial,which is why too that Homeland is so wonderful and successful.

10. Your work on both books has been extremely successful despite the subject of terrorism being a sensitive one. Have you had any negative reactions to your work?

Bullets has a 4.8 Customer Rating on Amazon out of 5 with only one negative review. Though written in 1987, it seems to have found its time in the current environment. It is greatly realized, or should be, that reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians is the only future for Israel and Palestinians. The book has been widely lauded in both the Arab and Israeli press as well as in mainstream newspapers. However, I expected blowback from those who see Palestinians as “the other”, and who believe might, which is a requirement for deterrence, alone is sufficient. So far it hasn’t come. Maybe those people too, deep down, known a deal needs to be done.

11. After the success of both The Damascus Cover and Bullets of Palestine, have you any plans to release another novel in the Jerusalem Spy series?

I’m working now on a new book that has not been published before called To Destroy Jerusalem. It will deal with the nuclear issue and have the same two protagonists as Bullets. The Colonel will be there though he’s a bit potty now, long in retirement, and rather than pulling the strings, is the moral center Shai, where he goes when trouble or in doubt.

Thank you so much for taking the time to talk to us. It has been an absolute pleasure.

Howard Kaplan Author Photo 1About the Author:

Howard Kaplan, a native of Los Angeles, has lived in Israel and traveled extensively through Lebanon, Syria and Egypt. At the age of 21, he had his own spy experience while attending school in Jerusalem, when he was sent on two missions into the Soviet Union to smuggle out a dissident’s manuscript on microfilm. His first trip was a success. On his second trip, however, he was arrested in Khartiv and interrogated for two days in the Ukraine and two days in Moscow, before being released. He holds a BA in Middle East History from UC Berkeley, an MA in the Philosophy of Education from UCLA, and is the author of four novels. Follow him on Twitter at @kaplanhow.