Hi Guys

It’s been a while since I did an author interview. I have been super busy, both in my day life, and in book world. But I’m back, from outer space……

Today I have had the pleasure to interview upcoming author Lela Grayce. She writes YA/fantasy, and has many things on the horizon.

Hi Lela.

When did you first realize that you wanted to become a writer?

I was in my early to mid-twenties when I decided to write down my imaginings. I’m a very vivid dreamer so I would dream about people in a specific situation and then in waking I would build, in my imagination, a backstory for them on how that got to this situation with these people. It’s fun coming up with the back stuff.

• What are your ambitions for your writing career?

Well I would like to do the whole writing author thing full time so that is the ultimate goal, but for now it is a hobby, something that I enjoy doing. I have a very vivid imagination so I will always have a story to tell.

• Which writers inspire you?

There are so many out there that are an inspiration to me and the list is quite extensive but the most influential ones would be Leia Stone, Jaymin Eve, Steven Smithen, Aaron L Speer, Raye Wagner, B. Kirsten McMichael, John Conroe, Frost Kay…. and the list goes on and on.

• So, what have you written?

In comparison I haven’t written much. I am about 70K words into my debut novel Areion and plan to write a bit more in this book and then begins the edits and rewrites.

• What are you working on at the minute?

I have also started a novella set in the same world are Areion called Learning to Fly. I hope to release the novella shortly after Areion releases at years end.

• Why do you write?

I write because I have a story to tell. The characters are in my head and they want their voices to be heard… well read.

• Where do your ideas come from?

From my dreams mostly. I have very vivid dreams and will usually dream about a character, known or unknown, in a specific situation. It never makes sense so then I have to use my very vivid imagination to come up with the back story. That is by far the most fun, coming up with the back stuff.

• Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you?

When I first started writing I was definitely a pantser but after writing for some time now I have come to realize that I need an outline or timeline. My characters like to go off on rabbit trails that have nothing to do with the overall story. The more I write the more I learn about myself and my writing style. An author friend of mine always reminds me that writing is not a sprint it is a marathon, you learn as you go, you find what works and what doesn’t.

• How do you think you’ve evolved creatively?

I’ve gone back over my earlier writings and I have notice improvement. When I first started I would have lots of detail, instead of letting the reader make their own mental picture I was trying to do that for them. That isn’t the type of writer I want to be so it has taken time to learn to not explain things to an exhausting degree.

• What is the hardest and easiest things about writing?

One of the hardest things for me was overcoming the fear that what I have in my head has already been said, and for a lot of newbie authors like me that is a real intimidating fear, but an author lady once told me “Of course it’s already been said but YOU haven’t said it yet.” I’ll never forget that. We are the product of our experiences be it through life, specific circumstances, or situations everyone is different and unique in their thought processes and their reactions. The easiest thing is most definitely the dreaming and imagining part, it’s my favorite part by far.

• Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors?

I read. A lot. Well not as much as I once did but I do try to find time to read. I will read anything by D.K. Holmberg, B. Kirsten McMichael, Jaymin Eve, Leia Stone, Jane Washington, Aaron L Speer, Steven Smithen, Frost Kay, A.C. Wilson, Annette Marie… I could go on and on.

• What would you say are the main advantages and disadvantages of self-publishing against being published or the other way around?

Well I haven’t published anything as of yet but I do know that self-publishing is difficult, but any dream is hard to obtain in the beginning so I will keep at it.

• Do you have any advice for other budding authors?

To keep writing! Always keep writing. On this journey to publishing there is a ton of hoops and it might all seem daunting when you first look at it but one of the things I love about self-publishing is that I can take my time. There are no rules or deadlines. I do what works best for me. Sometimes it’s writing over a thousand words in one sitting, sometimes it’s walking away from the story because you have nothing more to say. It’s find your writing normal. No one else’s writing process is going to be the same as yours it takes time and you keep learning.

• How do you relax?

With a good book, and snack, my puppy to snuggle, and a hot drink.

• What is your favorite book and why?

I have a very extensive list of my favorite books, but the one that sticks out the most is a book that I read back in high school. It is an adaptation of the Shakespearean play MacBeth called “A Tale of Three Witches.” Back then I had heard about the play but had never actually read it so when I picked the book I wasn’t expecting that I would be so engrossed into the story. I devoured the book and it had such an impact on the way that I view books and stories that I have never forgotten it.

• Which character from any book you’ve read, would you like to be and why?

This is a hard question. I love so many characters. If I had to choose one I would choose to be Piper Griffiths. She is the main character in the Steel and Stone series by Annette Marie. She is strong in character, hard headed, stubborn, and has an intense desire to help those she cares about.

Thank you for your time today Lela. It’s been great chatting with you. Best of luck with the writing.

Please check out Lela’s link below:

Twitter: @LelaGrayce

Instagram: lela_grayce

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LelaGrayce/

Fan group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/101516387016901

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35082827-areion

Welcome all. Thanks for dropping by again.

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing A.J Griffiths-Jones

Hi A.J. Thank you for agreeing to this interview. Tell us a little about yourself and your background?

1.  When did you first realize that you wanted to become a writer?

From a very early age. I used to write plays for my cousins & I to act out at family gatherings and, in my teens, I used to fill exercise books with stories that I’d made up.

    2.   What are your ambitions for your writing career?

I am interested in writing across a wide spectrum of genres from Victorian crime to cookery books. I love challenges and writing out of my comfort zone enables me to push myself to new heights. Ultimately though I would like my work to be adapted for film or a T.V. series.

    3.   Which writers inspire you?

I love the characters created by Alexander McCall Smith, the imaginative stories told by Kazuo Ishiguro & the timeless genius of Charles Dickens. I never tire of reading anything by these authors.

    4.   So, what have you written? My first book (published in May 2015) was ‘Prisoner 4374’, the autobiographical tale of convicted poisoner & Jack the Ripper suspect, Dr. Thomas Neill Cream. I am immensely proud to say that it won the ‘Jack the Ripper Book of the Year Award 2016.’ I have also written four cosy mysteries, ‘The Villagers’, ‘The Seasiders’, ‘The Congregation’ and ‘The Circus’ (due to be published next month). I am also a regular feature writer for ‘The Dagger’ a true crime magazine.

   5.   What are you working on at the minute?

I am currently researching a second Victorian crime book and from May, I will be writing the final book in my mystery series. I generally work on two books at once.

   6.   Why do you write?

Writing is my passion. In 2014 I suffered a stroke and was unable to work. Writing has given me my life back and inspired me to explore new avenues which I might never have dared to do had I not become a published author. It’s taught me not to take anything for granted.

   7.   Where do your ideas come from?

Anywhere & everywhere. I am always jotting down ideas for new books, sometimes I simply wake up in the middle of the night with a thought or storyline, and of course I’m also inspired by historical crime and mysteries. If there’s a story, I’ll find it!

   8.   Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you?

I always run through the plot in my mind like a screenplay before I commence writing. This process usually takes about a month. This ensures that when I actually come to put the work together, I can see my characters clearly, hear them speaking, know how they interact with each other and how they live in the environment around them. If I’m working on a period setting, I always research the era thoroughly too.

   9.   How do you think you’ve evolved creatively?

I’m learning to listen to my readers. Reviews show that my work is becoming more and more popular as my most recent books come out & I’m becoming more confident in my work as time goes on.

  10.  What is the hardest and easiest things about writing?

The hardest thing for me is actually switching off. I’m a terrible insomniac & sleep very few hours. Sometimes I have to listen to my body and take a break. The easiest thing is creating my characters. Once the scene is set, they just seem to fall into place, which I’m very grateful for.

  11.  Do you read much and if so who are your favourite authors?

I read at least one book a week, sometimes more. I’ve recently discovered Scandinavian crime writer Camilla Lackberg and I’ve been enjoying her thrillers immensely. I’m also a big fan of Paulo Coelho, the morals & lessons beneath his stories are quite moving.

  12.  What would you say are the main advantages and disadvantages of self-publishing against being published or the other way around?

I don’t have experience of being self-published, as I’ve been lucky enough to have been offered contracts by two very good publishers. I would imagine that the down-side of self-publishing is the amount of time that one would have to dedicate to marketing.

  13.  Do you have any advice for other budding authors?

I believe that there is a reader for everyone. Don’t be disheartened by negative reviews or comments about your work, just strive to improve. Get yourself out there and somebody somewhere will love your work.

  14.  How do you relax?

I love cooking, experimenting with new recipe ideas and hosting dinner parties. I also grow all my own vegetables which is great fun. I swim two to three times a week and I also love travelling. As soon as we return from one holiday, the map comes out and we plan our next trip.

  15.  What is your favourite book and why?

I have a few firm favourites, but I’d say the one that I love the most is ‘The Historian’ by Elizabeth Kostova. It has just the right mix of historical and supernatural fiction to sweep you away to another realm.

  16.  Which character from any book you’ve read, would you like to be and why?

Precious Ramotswe from ‘The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency’ by Alexander McCall Smith. She’s hilarious, always getting up to mischief & using her skills of detection to find out people’s secrets. She’s also a kind, bubbly woman, the kind you’d want fighting your corner, something that I always strive to be.

Thank you A.J for a lovely chat. Quite inspirational I may add. I wish you the best of for the new release.

Stay tuned for more author chats.

Here are A.Js links:

https://www.facebook.com/AJGriffiths-Jones-Author-Page-400960520088267/

https://twitter.com/authoraj66

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13931915.A_J_Griffiths_Jones

Welcome all.

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Chloe Hammond

Hi Chloe. Thank you for agreeing to this interview. Tell us a little about yourself and your background?

1.   When did you first realize that you wanted to become a writer?

My primary school teacher read us a poem when I was seven, about dragonflies, and I was enthralled by how the words painted such a clear picture. Reading and writing don’t come easily to me, but after that I was addicted, and playing with words became my favourite pastime, after reading.

2.   What are your ambitions for your writing career?

I have a dream that I can afford to support myself and my husband and pets from my writing, and we live in a lovely little home by the coast in France or Spain- I love the sun. I write a book a year or so, which while whisking my readers away on an adventure, also opens doors in their minds to new possibilities. I have a little separate annex where I offer writers retreats, offering peace and support for fellow writers. I have views over fields of sunflowers and vines, over a pretty town, and in the distance, the sea.

3.   Which writers inspire you?

Barbara Kingsolver brings huge social history issues to the fore, by telling stories about the minutiae of ordinary people’s lives; Terry Pratchett told so many truths about this world and real people in his stories about made up worlds and peoples. He took the ancient route of retelling old stories, which access the lessons in them that we’ve forgotten. Finally, Clarissa Pinkola Estes, who explores ancient folk and fairy stories, tracing their oldest roots, before Grimm and Disney prettied them up, and explores the essential truths they contain that we women, especially, benefit from learning.

4.   So, what have you written? I have only been writing properly for about three years, since I developed anxiety and depression, and it has to fit around a full time job, house renovation, husband, etc, so I haven’t written as much as I would like. I self-published my first novel, Darkly Dreaming, Book 1 of The Darkly Vampire Trilogy about 18months ago. I’ve also had two poems accepted in two Cake and Quill charity anthologies.

5.   What are you working on at the minute?

I am working on Darkly Dancing, Book 2 of The Vampire Trilogy, and really hope to be able to publish it for Halloween this year. I am also polishing a short zombie story for Stirling Roberts Publishing’s competition, and really hope it will win a place in their anthology.

6.   Why do you write?

I love words. I love the way I can have a day dream or nightmare, and imagine an exciting story, then with carefully placed symbols I can encourage you to experience those same, or at least very similar, feelings. I studied creative writing as part of my degree twenty odd years ago, but after graduation it was always something I was going to do tomorrow, when the timing was perfect, so I could sit down and plan it all, and write the perfect literary masterpiece. By setting up such grand plans I didn’t write at all, apart from the occasional poem to make sense of my own feelings. When I was diagnosed with anxiety and depression, I recognised I had to allow my creative side to breathe again, so I just started writing. I didn’t worry about it being perfect, I just wrote what I enjoyed writing, honed that to the best it could be, and hoped other people would enjoy reading it.

7.   Where do your ideas come from?

Symptoms of the anxiety and depression included lots of terrifying nightmares, largely about vampires. I started writing these scenes, and then created the story around it. Once I did, my characters introduced themselves to me, and quickly developed lives of their own, and very demanding personalities!

8.   Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you?

No, it was planning to do all the plotting and outlining which became a big hurdle for me. I start each writing session with an approximate idea where I want the story to go, but Rae and Layla will come along and totally take over so the story gets a whole other slant I wasn’t expecting.

9.   How do you think you’ve evolved creatively

I can see the difference in my own writing between when I first started, and my more current writing. It flows more easily and is richer, even too me as the writer. Like any skill set it develops and strengthens with use.

10.  What is the hardest and easiest things about writing?

I hate marketing and self-promotion. It does not come naturally to me at all. One day I will earn enough to hire someone to do that side of things for me. However, I do love chatting with readers and other writers, either face to face or online, if that was all that I had to do, I’d be delighted.

11.  Do you read much and if so who are your favourite authors?

I am utterly addicted to reading, I read every day. When I lived in France for 6 months in the 90’s I couldn’t find any books in English initially, so I ended up reading the sports pages in a week old Broadsheet newspaper, and I hate sports. Eventually I found a shop that sold the classics for 99p, so I ended up reading a lot more classic literature than IO would have otherwise. I love Deborah Harkness, she’s my favourite fantasy author, Pratchett and Kingsolver as I said above, and some of the old American classic authors, like Zora Neale Hurston who writes like she’s in the room talking to you. The books I like best are the ones that offer more than just a story.

12.  What would you say are the main advantages and disadvantages of self-publishing against being published or the other way around?

I’m a bit of a perfectionist; I wanted my cover art, website, etc, to be exactly how I wanted them. I hate it when people don’t quite have the same vision as me, and they insist on doing things there way, not mine. Self- publishing allows me to do things exactly how I want them, so everything reflects the inner vision I have for my ‘brand’, even if it does take longer. It’s a huge amount of work, and a steep learning curve; I’ve spent a lot of money getting a good website designed, but I’m learning new skills every day, and one day I hope to pass them on to others with my writers retreat. I may even open my own cooperative publishing house if I ever feel confident enough. I have been offered a couple of deals with small publishers, but turned them down in my determination to do it myself and learn all the lessons for myself. It may be slower this way, but it’s thorough!

13.  Do you have any advice for other budding authors?

Just write. Don’t worry about getting it perfect; just get some words onto the page. You will slash and burn pages and pages later, and add and expand, and cut and paste, and change tenses and names, but first of all you need to tell yourself the story. If you worry about getting the first draft perfect, you’ll overwhelm yourself. Think of it like baking- the pummeling and kneading are essential parts of the baking process, as is resting, but you need the dough, mixed, in the bowl first.

14.  How do you relax?

Reading, cooking, and cuddling with my husband, rescue dogs, and fat senile cat while we binge on box sets like Game of Thrones, Catastrophe, and Broadchurch.

15.  What is your favourite book and why?

One? You can’t ask me to choose one! One of my favourites is the Book Thief because the delicacy of the language describing brutality and love is exquisite.

16.  Which character from any book you’ve read, would you like to be and why?

Pratchett’s Esme Weatherwax, she is one of society’s odd balls, like me, but she doesn’t give two hoots. She has her best friend, and her pets and she’s happy. I would love to be able to not care what people think in that way, it makes you much happier. I’m far too sensitive, and have to constantly monitor myself so I don’t tie myself in knots trying to please other people. I also love the idea of being able to out poker hardened sailors simply by scratching my ear.

Thanks Chloe. I love your writers retreat plan. Definitely going to steal that idea. I wish you the very best of luck.

Check back soon for more interviews. Here are Chloe’s links:

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Darkly-Dreaming-Book-Vampire-Trilogy/dp/1518834388/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1456321659&sr=8-1&keywords=darkly+dreaming

Amazon USA: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017EY1OKY/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il?ie=UTF8&tag=readers02-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B017EY1OKY

Small independent online bookstore Mineeye for non-Kindle users:

http://www.mineeye.co.uk/shop/fiction/darkly-dreaming/

Website: http://www.chloehammondauthor.com

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chloehammond111

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22449499-darkly-dreaming

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chloehammondauthor

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Darkly-Dreaming/750124258345038

Tumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/chloehammondauthor

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/pub/chloe-hammond/91/8b6/b50

Google plus: https://plus.google.com/u/0/102826869219440784952

Welcome all.

Today I’m chuffed to be interviewing Emma Slaughter.

Hi Emma. Welcome. Tell us a little about yourself and your background?

My name’s Emma, I’m 33 years old, so only just an adult in Hobbit years!

1.     When did you first realize that you wanted to become a writer?

I don’t think I realised as such. I never ‘wanted to be a writer’ as in planned it, I just got a story in my head one day that refused to leave until I had written it down, and it spiralled from there.

   2.      What are your ambitions for your writing career?

I’m realistic. Very few writers become successful enough to do it full time, much less have a comfortable living off of it. I’m satisfied if I reach people with my writing, no matter how few people that may be. Although the successful writer bit is always a dream, even if it is a pipe one!

  3.    Which writers inspire you?

I used to say people like Stephen King and Jo Rowling, Stephen for the sheer volume of quality work he produces, and Jo for the fact she was one of the rags to riches success stories that every fledgling writer dreams of. Now it’s those I have made friends with online – David Mccaffrey, Chris Trebault-Blay, Rob Enright, Donna Maria McCarthy – real authors who make such an effort with fellow writers. They make you feel like you are part of a community.

   4.    So, what have you written? Only one novel so far – Lonely As A Cloud – a diary from the point of view of the last human being alive, and her journey to find other survivors, interspersed with mother nature explaining why the human race had to be wiped out. I did write poetry when I was a young angsty teen but they were God awful.

   5.    What are you working on at the minute?

I’m currently editing my second book – The Ghost Lights.

    6.   Why do you write?

Because I have stories to tell. Also because it helps my anxiety and depression.

   7.    Where do your ideas come from?

Some from real life, some from noticing a gap in certain subjects (for example there are few books post-apocalyptic that have just one survivor) and some spiral from reading an unusual fact about something. For example The Ghost Lights is inspired by the lights that are left on at all times in a theatre. In reality this stemmed from the fact the lights were gas powered, so a light left on helped prevent the build-up of gas leading to explosions. The fiction was that the light was left on for the theatre’s resident ghost. Although there are no ghosts in the book!

   8.   Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you?

A mismatch of methods. I usually start writing from an initial idea, and then if I find it’s stalling a little I will work out a rough outline so I know where to go next.

   9.   How do you think you’ve evolved creatively?

I’ve become more disciplined…for the most part. I’ve also learned how to look at my work objectively, and to ignore reviews. Bad or good, it’s somebody’s opinion.

  10.  What is the hardest and easiest things about writing?

Easiest thing is writing when you have got into the right mind-set. In fact it’s hard to stop when the inspiration hits. The hardest thing can be the opening line.

  11.   Do you read much and if so who are your favourite authors?

I read a lot! I don’t have a favourite author per se, I just go to the library every couple of weeks and pick up a dozen books.

  12.  What would you say are the main advantages and disadvantages of self-publishing against being published or the other way around? The main advantage about self-publishing is that you don’t have to wait for a publisher to decide whether your book is marketable, and that you have total creative control. Paradoxically this is also the negative – unless you have the money you have to rely on yourself (or possibly some nice friends) to edit, develop a cover, format the book properly and above all market it.

  13.   Do you have any advice for other budding authors?

Never stop. Even if you think your work is never going to be popular it doesn’t matter. All that matters is that you touch one person with your story.

  14.  How do you relax?

I craft. Cross stitch, paper-craft, jewellery making, mixed media…you name it I do it.

  15.  What is your favourite book and why?

I don’t have one! So many books, so little time.

  16.  Which character from any book you’ve read, would you like to be and why?

That’s a hard one! I’ll narrow it down to two – Mr Jingles from The Green Mile purely because I’d love to do nothing but roll a spool and eat peppermint candies all day, and Peeves from Harry Potter cos he looks like he has some fun! Sorely missing from the last book I think.

Thanks Emma for a nice chat. You’ve opened my eyes to the joys of being a mouse.

Check back soon for more interviews. Here are Emma’s various links. Check her out:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Emma-Slaughter/e/B0165V3EBE/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14246287.Emma_Slaughter

https://twitter.com/lonelyasa_cloud?lang=en

Welcome all.

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Chris Botragyi

Hi Chris. Thank you for agreeing to this interview. Tell us a little about yourself and your background?

Hi Phil,

I’m Chris Botragyi, 42 and author of nasty horror novel Blurred Vision. Originally from Frinton in Essex, I now live in Southend. I’m studying an English degree, and currently volunteer as an English LSA at an alternative school for children not in mainstream schooling.

1.      When did you first realize that you wanted to become a writer?

I had always liked creative writing when I was young, but it was around 15 years ago that I began writing properly. Poetry was a good way of expressing life that was very dark for me at times. It was my way of expelling my personal demons so to speak.

2.     What are your ambitions for your writing career?

As writers we all want success; but while that’s nice, for me it’s about the prestige more, the recognition.

3.     Which writers inspire you?

I’m a big fan of Anne Rice and her Vampire Chronicles. The richness of her writing is nothing short of amazing. The perniciousness of her characters and their lives is sublime.

4.     So, what have you written? 

As well as Blurred Vision, I’m a 23 time multi-published poet whose work has appeared in a variety of anthologies over the years. I have had a few certificates of commendation to boot! I used to write film reviews for Colchester Circle Online Magazine too, which I really enjoyed.

5.     What are you working on at the minute?

At the moment I’m only working on promoting BV, which in itself is time consuming. I have a few unfinished projects that may see the light of day, but for now it’s BV all the way!

6.     Why do you write?

I write to free myself of burdens. As weird as that sounds, it’s a therapeutic way to rid my mind of all the bizarre thoughts and things that pollute my mind on a daily basis!

7.    Where do your ideas come from?

From the darkest recesses of my mind. As clichéd as that is, it’s true. My upside down life has given me a plethora of material with which to utilise for works; whether that’s characterisation or horrific experiences, life is there, and ongoing.

8.     Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you?

I have a rough idea of what I’m looking for and how I want things to go. But we know that never always goes to plan. Plots change, characters get removed or added, so I tend to finally get the story down and go through chopping and hacking until the rough version is done.

9.     How do you think you’ve evolved creatively?

As said, life offers you a multitude of experiences with which to work with. I find that with this, and feedback/reviews, it helps me to broaden my scope within my writing – be even more ambitious and ‘out there’.

10.   What is the hardest and easiest things about writing?

Easiest? That’s got to be the ideas and writing the story. But editing… That I hate! I edited BV 12 times before a professional editor got their hands on it. Then a proofreader and more line edits ensued until I felt we were all happy with it.

11.    Do you read much and if so who are your favourite authors?

I try to read when I can. Anne Rice is a favourite, as is Brett Easton Ellis and Homer. But I’m always finding one off books that I love.

12.   What would you say are the main advantages and disadvantages of self-publishing against being published or the other way around?

As I’m published by BNBS, I have no experience of self-publishing. However, there are definitely advantages to being self-published these days. It’s cheap and easy to do. The downside is that many assume that writing a book means just what it is. Unfortunately many don’t understand that you need editors, proofreaders and plenty of time to promote and build up potential readers/followers. But that being said, I know authors who have followed the self-publishing route/rules and have been very successful?

 13.      Do you have any advice for other budding authors?

 Yes. See question 12! Don’t fall into the trap of a halfhearted attempt at writing and self-publishing. If you’re going to do it, do it right; it’s an all or nothing situation. The more hard work you put in, the more you’ll get out of the experience. 

14.    How do you relax?

 Relax…what does that mean? Joking aside, I find solace in flaking out on the sofa or at the cinema watching an awesome movie.

15.    What is your favourite book and why?

 Tough question. Love American Psycho by Brett Easton Ellis as well as Blackwood Farm by Anne Rice. Big favourite though is Jumper by Stephen Gould, that’s a superb read!

16.   Which character from any book you’ve read, would you like to be and why?

 I think that would have to be Lestat De Lioncourt from Anne Rice’s Vampire Chronicles. He is a constant thorn in the side who will push each and every boundary possible to gain experiences old and new! Great character.

Thanks for a great chat Chris. Nice mug by the way.

Check back soon for another author interview. You can find Chris’s links below:

 Twitter Take a look at Chris Botragyi (@ChrisBotragyi): https://twitter.com/ChrisBotragyi?s=09

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/chrissyb41/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Chrissyb66

With two books coming out soon, I contemplated the various forms of inspiration that helped create them. Here are some of the people, characters, and places that have interwoven themselves into my stories. Some may instantly recognise them. Others may not. That’s half the fun, as everyone sees things differently.
Take a gander….

Totally random, but maybe not.

I started this book last year. However, Christmas and life got in the way for a few weeks. This is my first book review of 2017. And what a way to kick start the year.

Review:

I’d previously read another of the author’s books, curious to see how she would switch genres. I was amazed. KJ Chapman has created a fantasy world on a par with Game of Thrones, intricately detailed. The main protagonists , Ezra and Reed are thrown together by murder and betrayal. Reed is a great character. The shadowy archer who saves Ezra, only to fall for her.

The story moves along easily, moving from land to land. Covens and murky sects litter their pathway, leaving the reader wondering who to trust.
The detail at which the story unfolds is staggering. It’s not just the characters that are described, Chapman has created legends and history from her imagination that pull you deeper and deeper into the book.
Characters die, brutally despatched in various ways. I found the language used in the book warm and oldé worldé. You can see the amount of work needed to create this rich tapestry of storytelling.
The ending was unexpected, leaving me wanting more. I wasn’t disappointed though, feeling that more is to come.
If you like fantasy, mixed with love, mystery, and betrayal – this is a book you must read.
Fabulous stuff
You can buy this wonderful book at the following: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01M1JZIB4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_KKGEyb73QW80Y

In my book world, 2016 has been varied and eye opening. I’ve tried to read as many books as possible, mainly from Indie, or up-and-coming authors. So much talent is out there. Ordinary people with extraordinary stories to tell. In no particular order, here are my picks of 2016. If you are not on this list, forgive me. I could have written about you all if I’d had the time.

The Aurora Stone, by G.S Tucker

Blurb:

An Elvish girl with changeable eyes will lose her family through the void. Three companions she will travel with. They will be identified by their gems. To get back what was lost, the Aurora stone must return to its home. In no more than a year and four days must this quest be completed, or the realms will be pulled into the void and lost.” An ancient prophecy, a special gift and an epic adventure awaited Evangeline of Hermoria. On her 18th birthday Eve’s whole world is turned upside down. Learning of her long lost twin brother and the prophecy, she alone must fulfill. Eve sets out on the adventure of a lifetime. Battles are fought and friendships made, as Eve journeys through the realms of Orea. All the while a great evil is on her tail. Its aim? To stop the prophecy coming to pass at any cost! Will Eve fulfill the prophecy and save all of Orea from the void? Will she ever find her twin brother? One thing Eve knows for sure, she will fight to the death and beyond to save her friends, and all that she holds dear. After all darkness cannot survive where there is light.

I came across this book at the end of the summer. The cover is what drew me in, thinking how eye-catching it was. It’s a lovely tale, of good versus evil. Of discovery and adventure. I’m not a fantasy fan per-se, but was drawn into Tucker’s world with ease. The characters are very easy to connect with. Some are bizarre, most are flawed, but you’ll find yourself becoming part of their quest. And what a quest it is! I have since read her next W.I.P and am impressed how she can switch genres with ease, painting a darker picture that will highlight her diversity. A promising talent, wife, mother, and good friend.  I will be on the lookout for more from this talented writer in 2017. Go Gem!

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Sarah England

Father Of Lies, by Sarah E England

Blurb:

A Darkly Disturbing Occult Horror Novel Ruby is the most violently disturbed patient ever admitted to Drummersgate Asylum, high on the bleak moors of northern England. After two years with no improvement in her condition, Dr. Jack McGowan eventually decides to hypnotise her. With terrifying consequences. A horrific dark force is now unleashed on the entire medical team, as each in turn attempts to unlock Ruby’s shocking and sinister past. Who is this girl? And how did she manage to survive such evil? Set in a desolate ex-mining village, where secrets are tightly kept and incomers hounded out, their questions soon lead to a haunted mill…the heart of darkness…and The Father of Lies. Sleep tight!

I’d noticed Sarah’s books hovering around social media, being drawn into the promise of a good English horror story. And boy did she deliver. Disturbing, chilling, and dank, England paints a world straight out of Hammer House Of Horror. Father Of Lies is not just scares and jumps. It’s a complex story, weaving back and forth over a series of decades, offering the reader sprinkles of mystery and darkness. When the horror hits, it really hits. There is no sugar coating it. It’s spine tingling and foul, plunging you into an isolated world, just out of reach of civilisation. The characters all seem to be hooked into the plots malaise, powerless to avoid the evil that seeps through the pages. I am to continue the journey very soon, with Tanners Dell. I cannot wait. Thank you Sarah. England’s horror queen.

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Stupid Cupid, by Sharon Karaa

Blurb:

Annabelle Pearson was in love. For three years, she’d worshipped the sexy but aloof Nicholas Nattrass from afar, wistfully dreaming of a time when he’d love her back, or at the very least notice she existed. All that was about to change, however, when she starts seeing things that she shouldn’t, things that couldn’t possibly exist, like the Grim Reaper and the Tooth Fairy, for example. The last straw comes when she spots Cupid, about to shoot his arrow at her beloved, and in a desperate bid to save her dream, she wallops him one with her handbag.
Dealing Cupid an almost fatal blow means someone has to take his place, and that someone is her! Will she complete her mission and save Cupid’s life? And will she manage to win the love of Nicholas Nattrass, or would the esteemed “Doctor Love” have her committed to an insane asylum?

This book was a real treat. Completely different from others I had read in 2015/2016. It is a paranormal romance. The plot seems fairly regular. Hopeless girl moons over Mr Untouchable. She is the office calamity, regularly making a fool of herself whenever he appears. Throw in fairies and dark forces and the plot seems to fly off on a tangent. Karaa does this so well, never missing a beat with a great story and wonderful characters. But what sets this book apart from other romances, is the humour. It’s funny. Hell, it’s hilarious in places. The talent this girl has for comedy, whether slapstick or observational, Karaa entertains with skill. She could easily write her own sit-com, and I’d be tuning in. A great book, that almost had wee coming out of me. TMI.

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Montana Sky, by Kelly Miles

Blurb:

Lauren must leave everything she’s ever known behind, not that it’s much of a life. After losing her parents in a horrific accident, she has no one, not even her husband to comfort her. He is the reason she’s running after all. Mark is a cop, hell bent on abusing Lauren and torturing her. She knows if he finds her he will kill her this time. She narrowly escaped her last “fall” down the stairs. Finding the courage to leave him, she finds herself in a small town in Montana though she has no plans of staying. It’s too dangerous. She has reserved herself to living life on the run until she meets him. Luke Randolph.
Luke is adjusting to life alone on the ranch. Sure he has his Mama, but after losing his father and his fiancé he’s done with love for good. He doesn’t need the distraction of a beautiful woman. He has plenty of money and good friends and family. Love isn’t worth the pain and the loss is unbearable. It had been seven years and he still hadn’t been able to move on. That’s when he meets her. Lauren Raines. The auburn haired, green-eyed woman has him spellbound and he can’t look away. He sees the fear and the pain she tries to hide. He sees right through it because it’s the same fear and pain he’d seen in his Mama’s eyes time and time again when his alcoholic father would beat on her.
Can Luke convince Lauren to stay or will outside forces and unforeseen circumstances tear them apart? will their love be enough or will she continue to run?

This book, is the first in a trilogy. I read it early in 2016 after reading book two, Back To Me. The author pours all her emotions into this book. I know parts of this book are a mirror image of parts of her life. Reading it was an emotional journey for me, as I’ve gotten to know Kelly well over the last year. A dedicated wife and mother, battling life threatening conditions, she let’s go with this book, giving it her all. The story is dark in places, revealing accounts of abuse and violence to a young woman, trying to make her way in the world. The third book in the trilogy, Blake’s Hope, is due out in 2017. I urge you to read Kelly’s work. Share in her story, that is, at times, harrowing.

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EVO Nation, by KJ Chapman

Blurb:

The government tortures her, her own kind use her, and she is learning the true meaning of ulterior motives. Teddie Leason has been dragged into the festering underbelly of the secretive world of EVO; a world about to be blown wide apart.

EVO are the next link in evolution, but with that title come the dangers of capture, torture, and experimentation. And with that threat come the need to survive, and a breed of EVO who are set to not only thrive, but rule.

Teddie has the fate of the EVO and Non-EVO world resting on her shoulders, and now, the reclusive teenager who couldn’t get upset without her unruly ability causing destruction, has to somehow embrace her gift to save her new friends and her new love.

Will the actions of one man fuel a suppressed, supremacist cult’s desire for war and vengeance, or will Teddie be strong enough to stop him? Should she stop him?

This book’s blurb instantly prickled my attention. The story is not fluffy and chirpy. It tells of a secret, post apocalyptic world, where gifted humans’ are experimented on. They are kept in a caged underground world, their gifts nullified to the point of chronic apathy. It’s beautiful, yet bleak. Thought provoking and engaging. If a world like this is ever to exist, I want to be as far away from it as possible. I am currently reading one of Chapman’s other books, Thrown To The Blue. She can switch genres with ease, adept at fantasy as well as dark thrillers. And on top of her writing prowess, she is also a fabulous blogger and reviewer. A huge talent, that will continue to EVOlve into 2017.

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Almana, by Julayn Adams

Blurb:

In the aftermath of World War III, the world has become a dangerous place. The ruthless dictator, Equis, and his army, Armageddon, are quickly taking over major metropolitan areas on the west coast of the United States. The end of humanity is imminent. Their one hope lies in the hands of a seventeen-year-old girl, Alexa. When Almana volunteers to leave Heaven to guide Alexa, she never thought that her own destiny would include falling in love with a human. Now, cursed to remain on Earth forever, Almana finds that her task is much more than she bargained for.

From the far corner of the world comes a book about the end of the world. Almana, an angel, sent to Earth to save humanity, was a real find. A very original concept, expertly crafted and told. Adams, an American by birth, drops the reader into the west coast of the United States, after a world war has ravaged it. I loved the feel of the book. Elements of Lord Of The Flies, with a setting like Planet Of The Apes, it was diverse and very reflective. Not just one of the best book of 2016. It was one of the best books I’ve ever read.

Thank you Julayn Adams. Keep it up.

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Awakening, by Brianna West

Blurb:

Izzy is on the fast track to nowhere. Being ordinary really blew sometimes. That’s until she meets Lucas–a man that’s unlike anyone she’s ever met. Mostly because he isn’t actually a man. He is a supernatural creature that proclaims to police the Light and Dark in order to protect humans.

And Izzy–well–she isn’t the human she thought she was. She is actually a supernatural being as well. And now Lucas is going to do everything in his power to find out what she is and protect her from the Dark lurking around the corner.

Awakening follows Izzy as she navigates this new world of demons, vampires, angels, and many other supernatural creatures. Recruited by the Promiscus Guardians and partnering with the most brooding and devilishly handsome man she’s every met, Lucas, Izzy is suddenly knee-deep up crap creek. Discover the secret behind her power and why it’s such a commodity in her Awakening.

Brianna is a mate of mine, all the way from California. But at the time I read her book, we were merely author acquaintances. I loved this book. I loved her humour and vigour for the unreal and wacky. Her main character, Izzy is a real hoot. Beautiful, yet lacking in confidence. Prone to donut consumption and drooling over hot men, she was a joy to accompany. West has a real knack of making you laugh. Her storytelling is precise, yet free spirited. Her female observations will appeal to all women who may have felt that way at some point. But don’t feel sorry for Izzy. She is very powerful, gradually realising that the hot vampires, demons and warlocks are not flocking to her merely for her stunning looks. They need her, in a constant raging battle of light versus dark. A great book, with action, laughs, and some steamy love scenes.

Well done my friend. All the best for 2017.

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The Horse List, by Anna Lores

Blurb:

Recently divorced from an abusive husband still intent to control her, Ava Black has two weeks before she moves back to her conservative hometown.

Encouraged by her best friend, she resurrects the wish list she started as a young girl when her number one desire was her very own horse. Over the years, The Horse List had become a mature list of her most erotic fantasies and a symbol of her rebirth as an independent woman. She can complete some of the items alone, but not everything. She needs an experienced partner with resources and the connections to places she’s only dreamed of going.

Could the handsome and wealthy artist Eric North be the partner she seeks? Will her drive to complete the list be enough to overcome her fear of him discovering the scars left from years of abuse? Will Eric protect her from her ex-husband, or will she go home to start over and give up her one chance to complete The Horse List?

Reader Alert! Ava explores the depths of her passion and embarks on a personal journey to fulfill the naughty fantasies of her personal Horse List. For most of the list, one partner is required, but for one special evening, she’ll need a third.  

Blood Of The Sixth, by K.R Rowe

Blurb:

In the quaint Southern town of Port Bella Rosa, something sinister lurks beneath the cobblestones. When hunger stirs a centuries-old evil, a demon awakens, releasing its hunters in search of prey. Jackals swarm from the mist, seeking out quarry, sating their master with offerings of human flesh. Allie Kent catches a glimpse of the first victim: a corpse with its organs, muscle and bone all consumed, leaving nothing more than skin behind. While police work to solve the unexplained murder, more bodies are found mutilated. Finally convinced the killer isn’t human, Detective Phillip Chambers is desperate to shield Allie from harm. But something haunts Allie: shadows spill through her darkened window; nightmares invade her sleep while visions confuse her waking thoughts. With Phillip her only protection, Allie struggles to keep her independence in check while treading a thin line between reality and insanity. But is the evil dwelling beneath the stones her only true threat—or will the demons in Allie’s head have the strength to destroy them both.

Terrifying and beautifully written, Rowe pulls off a chilling tale of demonic chaos. The author’s descriptive narrative is second to none. The painting of her words is both vivid and shocking, with some truly grisly set pieces. The setting is colourful, yet dark with a real New Orleans feel about the book. A real great horror story, one that should be on your TBR list for 2017.

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The Sister, by Louise Jensen

Blurb:

Grace hasn’t been the same since the death of her best friend Charlie. She is haunted by Charlie’s words the last time she saw her, and in a bid for answers, opens an old memory box of Charlie’s. It soon becomes clear that there was a lot she didn’t know about her best friend.

When Grace starts a campaign to find Charlie’s father, Anna, a girl claiming to be Charlie’s sister steps forward. For Grace, finding Anna is like finding a new family and soon Anna has made herself very comfortable in Grace and boyfriend Dan’s home.

But something isn’t right. Things disappear, Dan’s acting strangely and Grace is sure that someone is following her. Is it all in Grace’s mind? Or as she gets closer to discovering the truth about both Charlie and Anna, is Grace in terrible danger?

This book creeps up on you, covering you in a cold dread that you are powerless to stop. Well written, with the pages turning darker as the book gathers pace. Any hope seems to be snuffed out by a series of nasty plot twists, that leaves you in a cold sweat. Great characters that you really connect with. Even the darker characters envelope you, enticing you into their world. A really great book, with a hydrogen bombshell waiting to be dropped at the end. Thrilling and fabulous. I loved it.

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Blurb:

What happens to a serial killer when he loses his memory?
When the thrill of the kill loses its impact Carl resorts to drastic measures resulting in a catastrophic event.
He attacks without a plan and it all goes horribly wrong.

Carl’s life disintegrates as the two separate halves of him try to splice themselves back together. As they merge into one he becomes desperate to hold on to Susie, the only anchor to his sanity.
His nightmares terrify him and more importantly a part of him loves the feeling of power.
As Detective Guyer gets closer to finding the serial killer, Carl tries desperately to hold on to the man he wants to be.
Will the monster within him win or will the man he wants to be save his soul?
This book will take you to hell and back. Welcome to the mind of a killer. Please read with the light on.

Last, but by no means least is the Lovely Rita Ames. I read this book early in 2016. It was a real show stopper. Brutal and dark, with some truly nasty moments. What I loved about this book is how normal it appeared. The characters could live next door to you. They could pop round for a cup of tea, only to brutally murder someone the next day. The setting is Middle England, with the story being told in the first person, flitting between Susie, Carl, and Ben. I won’t give out any spoilers, you need to read this book to fully appreciate Ames’s talents. I’ve since gotten to know her, reading other short stories and future works. Creative and diverse, she is a fabulous writer and good friend. Just don’t let her photo fool you. There lurks darkness and danger under the fluffy exterior. Aside from writing, she too is a fantastic blogger. I urge you to check out all things Amesworld.

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Other notable books I’ve read in 2016 are:

Hidden Truths, by Brittney Sahin – link

Comorbid, by Lorelei Logsdon – link

Pieces Like Pottery, by Dan Buri – link

The Ticket, by Heather Grace Stewart – link

Dream Angel, by Jane West – link

Back To Me, by Kelly Miles – link

A great year in books, by writers who really have invested their time and passion into brining us fabulous, diverse stories. I am eager to continue my reading quest in 2017. I think my year is already full of potentially great reads.

Merry Christmas folks.

Hi

I’ve had a bit of a cold, hence the break. It was a severe cold, bordering on MAN FLU, but I don’t want to harp on about it. It was bad though….

Anyway, I’m very pleased to have been chatting with the awesome Jane West. She’s from a place called Texas, which is in a country called America…

1. When did you first realize that you wanted to become a writer?

I have dabbled with writing throughout my life but it was only about six years ago when I decided to do something with my writing.

2.     What are your ambitions for your writing career?

I wish to become an accomplished writer. I was once signed with a traditional publisher, but by my choice I left. I haven’t looked back. I enjoy the self-publishing side. I have more control over my work, and in the meantime, I am looking for a publisher that’s a good fit for me.

3.      Which writers inspire you?

Rosemary Rogers, Karen Moning, Harper Lee, John Grisham, Susan Collins and the list keeps going.

4.      So, what have you written?

I’ve written the Angel Series and other stories that I haven’t published. If I were to count all the books I’ve written and rewritten the number is around 100 books. I’m serious. I’ve been doing this non-stop full time for six years. I also wrote earlier in my life too.

5.      What are you working on at the minute?

I’m starting a new book that will be a murder mystery. I’ve been kicking around a few ideas in my head but I haven’t made any decisions yet.

6.      Why do you write?

Writing touches me. I am obsessed with it. I wake up in the morning thinking about it and I go to bed at night thinking about it. It’s all I want to do and it is in my heart, my soul. I have to write.

7.      Where do your ideas come from?

What started me writing the Angel Series, is my obsession about the Illuminati. I was between books and couldn’t find anything I liked and I decided to write my own book and the rest is history. I have all sorts of ideas and they keep coming.

8.      Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you?

I use to be a panster. Then I learned if you want an effective story you have to do more than sit down and start writing. To do a story justice, I learned that I have to do my homework before I begin actually writing. First, I have to decide who my characters are going to be. For each character, I write a short story – where he or she was born, likes, dislikes, what position will this person play in the story? Next, which point of view will I take? First person is usually what I write. After character interviewing, I begin plotting the transitions of the story, scene stacking and pulling it all together and tying the story up. I’ve learned in order to be effective, you have to write a book before you write. It’s a lot of work but if you want to do it right and make a bestseller that’s what you have to do. Your story will go smoother, it will make more sense and your characters will be more defined.

9.      How do you think you’ve evolved creatively?

I write a lot. I read everything I can find on creative writing, how to write dazzling dialogue, tags and beats, description, building scenes and closing the story with a perfect ending. Research is very vital as well. Even if your story is fiction, it helps to have facts. It makes it more believable.

10.     What are the hardest and easiest things about writing?

It’s easy to sink my entire day into writing. The hardest part is telling yourself that you are not wasting your time. That you will become an accomplished writer. I believe you have to believe in yourself first and the rest will follow.

11.     Do you read much, and if so who are your favourite authors?

I like reading books that I can learn from. I use a book call The Novel Maker’s Handbook by Diane O’Connell. It is the best guide to writing I have found yet. I read various books to get an idea of different styles. It’s important to develop your own voice and not try to be like your favourite author. You want your voice to be unique and different than anyone else’s. It takes practice and lots of practice. Learning to write is something you will never ever lean completely. If a writer thinks he or she knows all there is about the art of writing, I can show you an author who will not grow. Challenge yourself and keep challenging yourself. Keep the edge and never lose the drive.

12.     What would you say are the main advantages and disadvantages of self-publishing against being published or the other way around?

Traditional publishing can be great if you have a good one. They have such a larger platform and can reach millions of millions of readers. Though, finding a really good publisher is difficult. Self-publishing, you are limited to a much smaller platform and any expense comes out of your own pocket. Generally, most respectable publishers provide a book cover, advertising, publicist and so on… The downside of a publisher is that you don’t have control over your work as a self-publisher will have more control.

13.     Do you have any advice for other budding authors?

Write strong! Keep stretching your mind, challenge yourself, read everything you can get your hands on, take creative writing and don’t let anyone discourage you. Write and write and write more… And push!

14.     How do you relax?

I occasionally sleep. lol.

15.     What is your favourite book and why?

I have many. I have to say one of the most profound books is the Hunger Games. I didn’t think I’d like it but when I opened the book and read the half page, I was hooked and I never get hooked on a first page. The author wowed me with how she told the story. I could feel the young girl’s pain, her fear and excitement. It was if I was right there. The story is awesome!

Thanks so much for giving me the opportunity to chat with you. I hope your readers enjoy it!

Many thanks Jane for an insight into what makes you tick. I’ll be keeping a close eye on your future works.

You can find Jane’s links below. Check back soon for more bookish stuff.

Goodreads: link

Twitter: link

Sarah England

It’s not often that I get to read a good English horror book. That however, has changed as I’ve stumbled across the dark world of Sarah E England. Looking at a picture of her, on a comfy sofa in a bright and airy lounge, you’d think she’d be writing something a bit more fluffy. A nice rom-com maybe, or a period drama. Nothing could be further from the truth. The world which she has created is dark, dank, and downright chilling. Being the age I am, I am able to draw similarities between her work and things from my youth. Don’t get me wrong. This is all her own work, original too. However, there are parts of the book which reminded of great horror from the past. The Omen, American Werewolf in London, even the League Of Gentlemen, all flashed into my mind whilst reading Father Of Lies.

The horror aspects of the book are chilling and disturbing, not relying on bloodshed and gore. The chills are more subtle, played out expertly by a skilled writer.

I’m eager to read the next installments, Tanners Dell and Magda. If you’re looking for a great horror story as the nights draw in, check out Sarah E England. I did. And I think she’s worthy of 5 stars.

Synopsis:

A Darkly Disturbing Occult Horror Novel Ruby is the most violently disturbed patient ever admitted to Drummersgate Asylum, high on the bleak moors of northern England. After two years with no improvement in her condition, Dr. Jack McGowan eventually decides to hypnotise her. With terrifying consequences. A horrific dark force is now unleashed on the entire medical team, as each in turn attempts to unlock Ruby’s shocking and sinister past. Who is this girl? And how did she manage to survive such evil? Set in a desolate ex-mining village, where secrets are tightly kept and incomers hounded out, their questions soon lead to a haunted mill…the heart of darkness…and The Father of Lies. Sleep tight!