Author: Jasveena R Prabhagaran

March 21, 2021

Author Interview with Dylan Walker

An avatar or Dylan Walker

DYLAN WALKER is a researcher at heart. After earning an undergraduate degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, he spent two years working as a Software Engineer. He earned a post-graduation degree in business management with a specialization in finance. For the last ten years, he has been a Research Analyst focusing primarily on IT hardware. When not working or writing, he spends his free time watching documentaries, tracking national and international politics, and think-tanks to remain abreast of current international relations.

Where are you from?

I am from and residing in India.

Why do you write?

I consider writing as one of the most respected form of communication since the arrival of homo sapiens. This is the best way to get engaged with people in order to spread your thoughts in an effective manner.

What do you write about? 

I present to the people about various news items that might have skipped their attention, within an espionage spy thriller format, thereby it serves as an edutainment version of reading.

Do you have a specific writing style?

I adopt the popular format of international thriller writing style with action, adventure and love interest properly woven in order to keep the reader engaged and not feel like that they just reading newspaper op-ed.

What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?

The choice of style itself was a bit difficult to find. I have been more inclined towards monitoring international events and tracking IR analysts and foreign policy thinktanks. The process to striking the right chord that resonates both to me and the larger audience took its own sweet time.

What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?

A reader after reading “A Summit without Mercy” said to me that it was like a proper action movie script, it was greatly satisfying as it reinforced my capability a taking current affairs event and successfully converting it into a captivating work. I was even more glad, when I came to that he was working with the peripheral part of the filmmaking industry.

A Summit Without Mercy

How long have you been writing?

The engine got its ignition mode back in my school days. Of course, that more of a historical documentation based on my school history textbooks.

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

It was generally seen weird during my school days. History was considered one of the dry subject to taught. However, I found it to be very interesting as I viewed them as a story based on real events. In fact, the thought of writing an altered history with an alternative timeline was the first moment when I actually wanted to become a writer.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I visually create avatars of characters and would interact with them during night, when I am free to have mind open for such interactions.

How long does it take to write a book?

It takes me 1-2 months to properly synthesize a knot into a storyline and then into a proper international thriller fiction.

Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?

Observe things and events around you that influence you be it positive or otherwise. The emotion that takes your heart for a ride would automatically reflect and evolve in writing.

What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story?

While, till now, I haven’t been searching for story knots as I see them abundantly around, challenge remains at areas where I have to choose the location as I want the audience not to be entirely familiar with such places thereby nudging them google and analyse about those places. In addition, the choice of character names as well as is a significant challenge while I write the story.

What do you think makes a good story?

The prime mission of a story is to engage and entertain. There is no second thought on that part. However, a good story must not just educate the reader, whether it is about an event or about a location or even about a restaurant in that location. The writer when takes the responsibility of providing such value addition apart from an engaging story, it becomes a good story.

What does your family think of your writing? 

They were initially surprised, however, they are really supportive at my endeavor.

Do you see writing as a career?

I do. It is not just about the monetary aspect, as I am currently with a professional occupation, which serves that purpose. However, it is the thought of reaching to people and sharing my thoughts and awaiting their feedback on my thoughts that drives me to take this up as a career.

Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?

The world is once again at brink of getting transformed. As the former US Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger, said, the global pandemic will “forever alter the world order”. I am striving to present you the international espionage spy thriller stories based on this ever changing global affairs.

Do you have links that you’d like to share for others to read?

     Amazon Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08XWCSMC9/
     Amazon Author Link: https://www.amazon.com/Dylan-Walker/e/B08XWFM6L3

     Facebook Page Link: https://www.facebook.com/dylanwalkerauthor

March 19, 2021

Book Review: The Connection by Dana Claire

The Connection by Dana Claire

Blurb:

Beatrice Walker thought she lived in a normal world—that is until she learned she’s a living hostel for an alien energy source, and apparently the answer to preventing extinction. Bea has no memory of her last moments with her mother. The week they’d gone missing is a complete mystery. Suddenly moved back to her hometown with her father, Bea has rekindled her friendship with her two best friends—and seems to have caught the attention of an arrogant, yet gorgeous boy named Cash Kingston. But there’s more to Cash than his annoying attitude and good looks. Cash isn’t human, and he’s now in charge of protecting Bea from those who know what she keeps safe inside her: the energy source that once belonged to his murdered girlfriend. Tensions mount as Bea learns her energy source must be paired with the one Cash holds to protect both their planets from an imminent threat. But what Bea doesn’t realize is there’s more to her than being a human host, that her feelings for Cash are not just a prophetic plan that will save their planets, and that the fate of everything lies in her choices.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

T

This book is a short and easy read, with about 280 pages and well-spaced text lines, making it a pleasant experience reading it. This book may seem like a regular YA novel, but the alien science fiction and dystopian love gives you a unique reading pleasure. You may also think that you will be able to figure out what will happen in the book but at many instances, the plot twists will take you by surprise and as the book ends with a cliffhanger, it leaves you wanting to know more!

The story is about a high-school student by the name of Bea, who thinks that she is just like everyone else, a normal human being but she learns that she is not. She is the host for an alien energy source and holds the key to prevent its extinction. Then enters Cash Kingston in her life to protect her and the alien energy source that she is hosting. But what’s interesting is the fact that Cash was told to protect Bea by Bea’s late mother and the message was conveyed through his girlfriend as she was breathing her last. What happened in the past and how Cash deciphers the puzzle that Bea’s mom presented to them is what the rest of the story is all about.

The book contains swear languages and the plot also moves fast, which can be confusing for some readers but nevertheless, it does not come across as a major problem.

With the cliffhanger, one can expect the answers to a lot of puzzles to be revealed in the next book. An enjoyable read. 

Dana Claire
Dana Claire

When author Dana Claire had several poems published as an elementary school student, she was hooked and writing became her passion. A shared dream of hers and her mother’s, she promised her dying mother that she would become a published author and that dream has been realized with The Connection.

Dana believes that a good story is made through strong character development; when readers become attached to the characters’ emotional state and are invested in their objectives. She believes that the beauty of reading is that one can live a hundred lives within the stories of books. Her own stories come to her in her dreams, and she wakes up with book ideas.

Dana’s family is very supportive of her writing and the creativity and sentiment driving it. Enjoying bicoastal living between Los Angeles and New York, Dana says she “lives the best romance in the world being married to the most amazing man she could ever ask for.” The Connection is her debut YA novel, the first volume in a planned trilogy.

March 17, 2021

Upcoming Author Live Chat with Macee Carson

Catch us on Facebook

Author Macee Carson Live Chat with Fans

Tuesdays: Your Next Page-Turner
23rd March 2021 8 PM CST on Facebook page (International Book Promotion)

Love: Different but Valid

Drop your comments/questions below if you have read her work and we will be happy to reply/answer them.

About the Author:

Macee Carson is a disabled, LGBT+ author who published Autumn’s Fire as her first novel. Her disability is due to fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome which she has suffered from for 9 years. Though this obviously makes life difficult for her, she does her best to prevail against her disability and do what she loves. As for her LGBT+ orientation, she is Biromantic and Demisexual.
Macee lives in Colorado with her cat, Caine, and rat, Kevin, and spends her free time writing, sewing, gaming, and listening to podcasts. She loves writing and storytelling and hopes to make it a full-time job. Currently, she is working on the next book in the series, A Spark’s Light, and a new series, Zaoda. To support her in her writing, you can become a supporter on patreon or simply follow her on social media.

Patreon: patreon.com/mmcarson78
Tiktok: @mmcarson78
Instagram: instagram.com/mmcarson78/
Twitter: twitter.com/doctorblanket
Youtube: youtube.com/channel/UCoDG-M2ZN7UyKl8j6JUchSQ
Website: mmcarson78.wixsite.com/maceecarson
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B084WP9TKF/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0

Check her book out on Amazon

Blurb:

Autumn was a Meadow Elf that spent most of her life hidden away with her nose in a book. But everything changed when she met Chriol, a Wood Elf from a neighboring village and a lovable goofball. Their friendship adds brightness and company to her life as Chriol shows her the wonders of the Heinthral Forest, Wood Elf culture, and a budding romance. Not everything is wonderful in Autumn’s life, though, as every night she continues to be plagued by a nightmare she can never remember. The only hint she has as to what this dream is? A vague feeling of warmth on her skin. Join Autumn and Chriol in their fantastical friendship in this unique story that will leave you hoping, yelling, wondering, and crying over the journey that takes place.

Book trailer for Autumn’s Fire

Meanwhile, enjoy the written interview with Author Macee Carson

  • Where are you from?

Colorado Springs, Colorado born and raised!

  • Why do you write? 

It sounds bit cheesy, but because I have stories in me that I need to tell. I have at least 10 stories on the backburner right now and will probably have more the more time passes. Hopefully, I’ll get the chance to write them all!

  • What do you write about? 

Life, from the little stories to the big ones. Pretty much anything I can sink my teeth into and get emotion out of.

  • Do you have a specific writing style?

I know that I tend to focus on emotion a lot because I feel it is the most important part of the character; how they feel is what defines them in my eyes.

  • What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? 

Writer’s block for sure, but also my disability. Ever since I got sick I’ve struggled with brain fog, and it definitely impacts my ability to write sometimes. But I do my best to give myself breaks where I need it and to force myself through it when I need that extra push.

  • What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?

This is actually one of the quotes I have on my book’s back cover, but it always sticks with me: “I have lived everything from supreme peace to raw despair in the pages of Carson’s magical story” -Andreea Padurean

  • How long have you been writing?

I actually learned how to write and read two years later than I was supposed to, as when I was in second grade and everyone was moving onto chapter books, I still couldn’t read anything! So due to that, my journey into writing was a little delayed. But I really sunk myself into writing after I learned how, and I wrote everything from stories to songs. Anything I could put my little mind to!

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

I knew from a very young age that writing would be a hobby of mine, but it wasn’t until writing Autumn’s Fire that I realized that I wanted to make it a big part of my life. It really sparked something inside of me.

  • What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

I write every day when I’m working on a book and am in the flow of writing. Sometimes, this goes great, and I get anywhere from one to six thousand words down a day. But most of the time, my disability or writer’s block gets in the way and I can only manage one to five hundred words.

  • What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I have a bad habit of putting commas everywhere and nowhere at all! Commas are always in the wrong place when I write!

  • How long does it take to write a book? (if you’ve written one -published or non)

It depends! Autumn’s Fire took about two months, but the sequel, A Spark’s Light has taken almost an entire year to write!

  • Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?

Write more often (practice makes perfect!), don’t get too caught up in everything being perfect on your first draft, and remember that your story matters and deserves to be written.

  • What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story?

I’m a perfectionist, so I have a hard time just getting done with the first draft. It took me a lot of practice to let myself write without obsessing over every word!

  • What do you think makes a good story?

In my opinion, its in the characters and their emotions. If they read like real people experiencing real emotions, then that’s the best you can ask for from a story!

  • What does your family think of your writing? 

My mom insists she is incredibly proud of my writing, and I find myself lucky to have such a supportive mom.

  • Do you see writing as a career?

Right now, it’s a hobby. I want more than anything for it to be a career, but that’s not happening right now. That’s okay, though, it won’t stop me from trying to make it into a career one day!

  • Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?

If nothing else, I hope you find Autumn’s story interesting and worth the read.

  • When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I didn’t really consider myself a writer until I finished Autumn’s Fire. I needed that ‘proof’ in my hands, showing me that I had done something, no matter how small.

March 13, 2021

Book Review: The 36 Watchers book II: Spring by Dan Bar Hava

Dan Bar Hava

Dan Bar Hava was born and raised in Jerusalem. Creativity was anessential part of his life early on, with music being the focus during teens and young adulthood, and writing thereafter. After serving inthe military and phase one of higher education, Dan moved to the US. He has co-written the film Falling Star (aka Goyband), a romantic comedy featuring Adam Pascal and Natasha Lyonne; and Brooklyn All American, a coming-of-age sports tale.Dan’s first book, The 36 Watchers, book I: Fall. Came out in 2019. The sequel, “The 36 Watchers book II: Spring, is slated to be published in 2021.

Book 2

Jenna is going on her first Watcher assignment, helping a major historical event into becoming a reality.

Reviewer: Yasir Sulaiman

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Simply Awesome!

The series just gets better with this one! The Author – Dan Bar Hava keeps readers of this book hooked from page 1! I can at least claim to have undergone that effect! The author has done a great job in combining certain important events in the world with religion and science. I believe the objective of any book (especially fiction) of any genre is to make the reader feel involved with the content inside. He/she must be enabled to relate with the characters.  And this is exactly what Dan Bar did with the second installment of the “36 watchers: Spring.”  The book starts with a mysterious character named “Henry”. I emphasize “mysterious” because this Henry character comes only at the beginning and end of the book; but he has a large role to play in it.  The story is complex but the base-line is how a group known as the “Watchers” attempts to bring to reality or actually accomplish something that was planned over the world’s history- crossing thousands and hundreds of years. Amazingly, the book has references to all major cultures and or religions of the globe.

Without giving any “spoiler” and without revealing too much of the plot, the “watchers” are a group of 36 anonymous members who “watch” different incidents in history for a bigger objective.  None of the members know each other and they contact through a “mind-contact” of some sort. That is, they can feel each others’ presence though I wish to correct myself; they are not supposed to contact each other. Jenna is the main character and she occupies most of the plot. She receives instructions from Uncle Josh.  The author-Dan Bar Hava has beautifully blended science with faith in this book and you begin to wonder, “if that is possible”, or “why can’t it be?”

Besides Jenna and Uncle Josh (please count Henry as well), core characters in this book are named Chris, Stephanie, along with Yoav. As mentioned, the author has described different incidents in the history of the world; be it from Egypt, the Mediterranean, and old an Jewish discipline. I am fascinated by how multiple complex events from history were combined together in this one book. And when I mention history, please also include events from the recent past.

 The author has given me and will surely give other readers certain aspects they will have to think of. I especially liked his connection between science and religion. I do not wish to describe more of the characters or the happenings/timelines as that could reveal large portions of the book’s plot.  The mystery and urge to know what comes next are the main USPs of this book. Unfortunately, the book has some flaws as well. For one, certain characters did not match. For example, a female character is said to be like a niece in one place and she is described as a romantic link in another, though uncle-like feelings were clearly demonstrated by the male character.  Also, there were a few typing error. The author’s narration style was good- it resembled conversations or thoughts instead of complete sentences.  However, the formatting could have been better. Along with these, the lack of clarity in some portions could be a dampener as readers could take some time to understand what the author is saying. It is only for these reasons; I am stopping short of a complete five-star. Otherwise, this book was revolutionary!

March 12, 2021

An Interview with Author Jaroslaw Kotkowski (Free Kindle from 12th through 14th March)

Jaroslaw Kotkowski
Jaroslaw Kotkowski

For over the past 30 years, Jaroslaw Kotkowski is researching creating love, relationships, happiness, the spiritual connection. At present, he is coaching believers who want to learn love creating skills individually through his homepage: kotkowskiconsulting.com. Jaroslaw also started a group project through his other homepage: lovestepbystep.com. He hopes to help countries, world organizations to preserve world peace. His new programs aim at connecting humanity with spirits from the life part of the non-material world.

Free e-book promotion for the book below on Kindle starts March 12 till March 14th. These are three days: 12,13,14th.

Love Step By Step: Create a connection and a relationship with a man

Where are you from?

I am Jaroslaw Kotkowski, I was born in Poland and I am naturalized US citizen. I am Relationships and Love, mentor and coach.

Why do you write? 

I write so I can help people with Love and Relationships any way I can. Love and Relationships are immense phenomenon. These are the amazingly interesting an involving, and I experience abundance of Love in my earthly life and in my Spirit.

What do you write about? 

I write books about Love and Relationships, that combine information about Love and Relationships with practical ways to create Love and The Spiritual Connection between people on individual and global levels.

Do you have a specific writing style?

I write straight in English but English is not my native language. My goal is to find the way to explain Love and Relationships in the most simple way, because I want my information to have a practical use, so people can find Love and Relationships accessible to them and welcome Love and Relationships into their Spirits.

What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? 

I have found in my earthly life that creating Love and Relationships is possible and fun, while many people struggle with it. The understanding of Love and Relationship I have discovered is new and different from the popular beliefs. Like anything that is new the obstacle is; how to point a readers attention she (he) can benefit from what I write in the major way?

Whats the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?

This is my first book I am publishing on Kindle so at the end of my book I share a contact info to me. This way I hope to hear from my readers a lot of great things, because Love and Relationships are the most amazing phenomenon, and I feel I could talk about them forever.

How long have you been writing?

My writing started from me writing down my notes on Love and Relationships from my own life. I have noticed I am receiving too many information and my human brain will not remember it unless I write it down. Then like two years ago I started to write books, because the information I have can be divided into many categories.

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

I remember once my girlfriend said to me: “How do you know Love so well? You probably wrote a book”. At that moment something happened, and I felt I have to write a book one day. I just did not believe I could. I guess, I felt people might not believe in what I write, and I was afraid of being ridiculed. But I am not afraid anymore, because I have realized what I know might be important for many people.

What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

I write at night. I usually wake up between 2-4 am. Then I meditate and I write when there is a complete silence around me.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I guess, this is combining writing with meditating.

How long does it take to write a book?

During the daytime I do not have the time to write books. If I had the time to write straight that could take much faster. I would need to find a secluded place for this. Sometimes I write half of a book and I forget about it, or where did I save my file. I want to stabilize my writing lifestyle. I will when I become more successful and known as a writer. For now, I just have to write whenever I can, so it is hard to say how long does it take for me to write a book.

Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?

I have no idea how to become a better writer. I am not even sure if I am familiar with English grammar in the first place. I just write the way it feels right. For now, my goal is to find the most helpful writing style, so I could help people to stop struggling with Love, Relationships and start becoming Love.

What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story?

The worst that can happen when I write are two things: any noise coming from the material world, and if I have to stop writing for some external reason. Other than that, I could write without stopping.

What do you think makes a good story?

My stories are about one thing and that is Love. I have found that any good story must have Love in it. Our life stories also have to have Love to be good. I just found that Love is the story that never ends.

What does your family think of your writing?

My family think I am crazy and great. I am crazy because it is not possible to change the world for the better. I am great because they love me and I love them too, so we all act a bit crazy sometimes.

Do you see writing as a career?

I see writing as something I must do. Also, something I wish to support my family with. I am afraid; if I can’t support my family with writing I would have to choose between writing, and my family. But I want to choose; my family, writing, and my fans.

Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?

I love you and I am sending Love to you with my book

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

This is my first book right here. So, I guess I am in the process of becoming a writer.

https://www.lovestepbystep.com/

https://lsbscommunity.medium.com/

Hire Jaroslaw as your coach today here – t.ly/OBEo

March 9, 2021

An Interview with Author Dr. Juan Marcos Bejarano-Gutierrez

Dr. Juan Marcos Bejarano-Gutierrez
Dr. Juan Marcos Bejarano-Gutierrez

Rabbi Juan Marcos Bejarano Gutierrez is a graduate of the University of Texas at Dallas. He earned a bachelor of science in electrical engineering. He studied at the Siegal College of Judaic Studies in Cleveland. He received a Master of Arts Degree in Judaic Studies. He completed his doctoral studies at the Spertus Institute in Chicago in 2015. He studied at the American Seminary for Contemporary Judaism and received rabbinic ordination in 2011 from Yeshivat Mesilat Yesharim.

Rabbi Bejarano Gutierrez was a board member of the Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies from 2011-2013. He has published various articles in HaLapid, The Journal for Spanish, Portuguese and Italian Crypto-Jews, and Apuntes-Theological Reflections from a Hispanic-Latino Context. He is the author of What is Kosher? and What is Jewish Prayer? and eighteen other books on Jewish history and interfaith dialogue.

  • Where are you from?

I am a native Texan.  I was born in Dallas and currently live in the suburb of Grand Prairie. I have traveled extensively in the US and abroad but enjoy living in Texas.

  • Why do you write? 

Writing is a unique vehicle to communicate the things I have learned. My undergraduate degree was in engineering. But my master’s and doctorate were focused on Jewish studies. I also received rabbinic ordination, and a vital part of communicating a lesson or class is through writing. Every graduate class required extensive research papers. My thesis and dissertation were challenging projects, but they helped cultivate my love of writing.

  • What do you write about? 

I write on three primary topics. The first is the history of Sephardic Jews, i.e., the history of Jews from the Iberian Peninsula. The second is on the Jewish background of Christianity and Jewish-Christian interfaith dialogue. I believe this second topic is critical in today’s world as we seek to foster a better understanding of these two historic religions. The last area I write on is about general Jewish topics related to Jewish life, practice, and observance.

  • Do you have a specific writing style?

Most of my writing is academic because of my studies. However, I recently started writing fiction. It’s an adventure for me since I have not done this before.  I still do quite a bit of research for my novels, but obviously, creativity is essential here. The story is not “fixed” as my academic titles are.

  • What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? 

The critical issue is time. I am an engineer by day. I am a husband to a beautiful wife and a father of three little boys. I am also the rabbi of two small communities, so fitting in writing is challenging. It usually happens before everyone is up or while I am holding the baby.

  • Whats the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?

A reader of one of my books titled Killing the Torah: The Origins of Christian Anti-Semitism and Anti-Judaism noted that they had reconsidered their previous theological assumptions after finishing the work. It was extremely encouraging because it highlighted my goal of thoughtful consideration and reassessment of age-old views.

  • How long have you been writing?

I started writing my first book when I was in college ~1993. I didn’t finish that book until 2004. I dropped writing beyond my academic requirements until 2016 and have been writing consistently since.

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

I was always an avid reader. I won an award for reading the most pages in the second grade, but I didn’t imagine my love for reading would translate to writing. Books have always been part of my life, and I have owned small bookstores in past years, so the jump to writing was not a radical one, I believe.

  • What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

I am a full-time engineer, so my writing is limited to mornings before work, sometimes during lunch, mainly in the evenings. My time is rarely focused solely on writing. I usually have the baby in my arms, trying to give my wife a break. So it comes in spurts.

  • What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I suppose I set an unrealistic schedule for finishing a project. It makes me motivated to write more, and while no one is setting the due date, the pressure seems to add some energy to the project.

  • How long does it take to write a book? (if you’ve written one -published or non)

This all depends on the type. I have one book that is 562 pages long. It’s a scholarly review of early Christianity in its Jewish contexts titled Forgotten Origins: The Lost Jewish History of Jesus and Early Christianity. I believe that one took me a solid six months. I have other works that are much shorter and can take roughly two months.

  • Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?

I think reading your writing aloud or having someone do that can be very helpful. I am converting many of my books to audio now. When I hear the narrator read certain sentences, they sound very different to me. I think it’s a necessary process to help the writer to improve the style of their manuscript.

  • What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story?

In my academic writing, there is always a challenge in how much to include or how much to leave out. Some books are intended as a basic introduction, and then I receive comments about how the book needed more explanation. However, if I write a more in-depth work, it can be challenging for many people.

  • What do you think makes a good story?

As far as fiction is concerned, I think the unexpected. This is a new genre for me, so I am drawing from fiction writers that I like. Translating that to my stories can be complicated, but I feel that it’s a process like anything.

  • What does your family think of your writing? 

My wife is incredibly supportive. She also writes. My eight-year-old son just finished a short book which he published through Story Jumper. He was so excited to receive a physical copy. He was proud to show it to me and said it was just like the books I published.

  • Do you see writing as a career?

It’s a dream. I’ve sold ~20,000 books so far since 2018, so I am far off from that goal, but I feel I am making progress. I am working toward that goal every day.

  • Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?

If you are interested in the nexus between Judaism and Christianity in a respectful manner and yet also want something historically accurate which delves into complicated issues like anti-Semitism,  I believe you will enjoy my books.

  • When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Amazon has the Best Sellers Ranks for various categories. Once I saw my books appearing regularly on the top 100 list of several categories, I felt legitimate enough to say I was a writer. Of course, I want to see this consistently for more titles, but it gave me the confidence to continue writing.

March 4, 2021

An Interview with Author Kendra Williams-Manuel

Author Kendra Williams-Manuel

Hello, I’m your author Kendra Williams-Manuel, I grew up in Missouri and I reside there with my husband and son. God and family are so important to me, my life would be different without the two. I started my journey of writing when I was a young child trying to escape my world so I could push through hard times. Writing is my life, it’s my passion. Writing can expand your thought process and can unravel masterpieces if you allow yourself to be taken into the zone of creativity, I’ve learned that on my journey. I encourage all writers to work on their craft daily.

  • What motivates you to write? Ideas in my mind that needs to be written down, I’m compelled to write.
  • Tell us about your new book? Why did you write it? My new book, “The Mental Journal I Kept on my Sister’s Downfall”, is a memoir about my beloved sister who passed away last February due to abuse and cancer. I wrote this book to show awareness to  the abuse, the medical system, and to help others through death and forgiveness.
  • When you are not writing, how do you like to relax? Well, I’m a wife and mother to a ten year autistic boy so I spend time with them. They keep me young.
  • Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge and thank for their support? My readers and followers who have supported me through my books, my podcast Mystified, and  on my YouTube Channel Kenthetoryteller Williams-Manuel. I’m so grateful for them!
  • Where are you from? I am from Missouri, a Midwest baby.  
  • Why do you write?  I write because writing is my world, I’ve been writing since I was a young child. Writing helps expand my creativity.
  • What do you write about? I mainly write suspense and horror stories. I grew up watching the Goosebumps series and Steven King movies. I just love to get people’s blood boiling with a little scare. I sometimes scare myself in the process.
  • Do you have a specific writing style? I do, I write short stories and novels on purpose. I believe you don’t need a lengthy book or story to tell a great one. No disrespect to those who have them.
  • Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer? Write every day, even if it’s not long. Expanding your creativity could get you a great story or stories one day. Perfecting your craft is the key.
  • What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story? I struggle with trying to create a perfect story, I guess because I am a perfectionist, but what I realized is; a story to me may be okay but great for someone else.

Purchase link: https://store.bookbaby.com/book/The-Mental-Journal-I-Kept-on-my-Sisters-Downfall

Follow me on Instagram as Kenthestoryteller (https://www.instagram.com/kenthestoryteller/)

Facebook Business Page: @ThrillinNovelist

February 24, 2021

Author Interview with Christian Espinosa

Christian Espinosa

Christian Espinosa is the Founder and CEO of Alpine Security, a cybersecurity engineer, certified high-performance coach, professor, and lover of heavy metal music and spicy food. He’s also an Air Force veteran and Ironman triathlete. He used to value being the “smartest guy in the room,” only to realize that his greatest contribution to the fight against cybercrime is his ability to bring awareness to the issue through effective communication. Christian is a speaker, coach, and trainer in the Secure methodology, helping to make the smartest people in the room the best leaders in the field. For more information, visit http://www.christianespinosa.com.

Describe yourself in five words

Authentic. Disruptor. Seeker. Adventurer. Restless.

What fact about yourself would really surprise people? 

I have over 300 skydives and have jumped out of hot air balloons, helicopters, jets, and inverted biplanes.

How do you work through self-doubts and fear? 

I visualize what is the worst that can happen and make sure I’m okay with it. I also look at a future version of myself and think about the regret I would feel by not getting over the self-doubt and fear.

What scares you the most?

Losing freedom and being caged, constrained, or “locked down”.

What makes you happiest? 

Freedom to do what I want, when I want, where I want, and with who I want. I also feel happy knowing I’m helping make the world a better place, one person at a time, through my interactions, books, and example.

Why do you write? 

I feel compelled to share what I’ve learned with others. I’ve made a lot of mistakes, paid a lot of “dumb tax”, and learned some key concepts. I want to help others avoid the pitfalls I made, improve their lives, and improve society.

Have you always enjoyed writing? 

Yes, I’ve always enjoyed writing, but haven’t always made the time for it. It’s difficult for me to write if I don’t schedule it into my day. Just trying to fit it in my schedule or doing it when I feel like it doesn’t work for me.

What motivates you to write?

I’m motivated to get my message out to help others. I want to affect positive change. Like with my book “The Smartest Person in the Room”, I want to help technical leaders, help the cybersecurity industry, and improve our chances of stopping cybercriminals.

What writing are you most proud of?

The Secure Methodology I created for “The Smartest Person in the Room: The Root Cause and New Solution for Cybersecurity”.

What are you most proud of in your personal life? 

Finishing 22 Ironman triathlons.

What books did you love growing up? 

Growing up I read a lot of Stephen King and science fiction. As I got older, I shifted to nonfiction books that I felt would help me in my life, such as Unlimited Power by Tony Robbins and Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill.

What do you hope your obituary will say about you? 

3 things. 1) that I lived an authentic life, wasn’t afraid to take risks, and “went for it”, 2) that I left everyone I interacted with in a better place, 3) that I worked hard to become a better person each day.

Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live? 

I grew up in Riverside, California until I was 12, then moved to Clarksville, Arkansas. These days I travel quite a bit. I wrote “The Smartest Person in the Room: The Root Cause and New Solution for Cybersecurity” in numerous places – Missouri, Arizona, Ireland, and Portugal.

How did you develop your writing?

I’m a fan of putting things on paper, then revising it. Sometimes just getting started is the hardest part. I’m an avid reader and have studied many books on writing.

What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing? 

Marketing is the hardest. I used to think it was writing though. Writing is creative and inspirational. Marketing can be frustrating because you want your book to get noticed, but there’s a ton of noise out there and competition.

What marketing works for you?

I’m not sure I’ve found the magic formula for marketing. The best thing is to know your target audience and market to them – speak in terms they understand.

Do you find it hard to share your work? 

No. I know my book has massive value, so I want to share it.

What else do you do, other than write? 

I founded and run a cybersecurity company, Alpine Security. I sold Alpine Security to Cerberus Sentinel in December 2020. I’m now a Managing Director for Cerberus Sentinel, a cybersecurity services provider.

Christian’s book on Amazon

What other jobs have you had in your life? 

I’ve had many jobs, such as the following:

  • Grass mower
  • Grape planter
  • Chicken Eviscerator
  • US Air Force Officer
  • Cybersecurity Trainer
  • University Professor
  • Cybersecurity Executive
  • Business Owner
  • CEO

If you could study any subject at university what would you pick? 

Human psychology.

If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be? 

Kona (the Big Island), Hawaii.

How much sleep do you need to be your best?

I aim for 7.5 hours.

Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you? 

Success to me is when my writing has made a positive impact on others. When someone’s life has improved because they read my book.

It is vital to get exposure and target the right readers for your writing, tell us about your marketing campaign? 

My marketing campaign is aggressive. My target audience is technical leaders, ideally in cybersecurity. My campaign consists of media outreach, podcasts, social media, blog posts, Amazon ads, emails, interviews, etc.

Tell us about your new book? Why did you write it?

My new book is “The Smartest Person in the Room: The Root Cause and New Solution for Cybersecurity”. I wrote this book because I went through a lot of pain and difficult struggles with my cybersecurity business. I figured a lot of things out though and wanted to share these lessons learned with others. As a cybersecurity business founder, owner, and CEO, my perspective shifted because necessity was much higher…if I didn’t figure the issues out in my organization and industry, I could lose everything. There was more at stake. I recall one of my team members telling me once that one of our clients “just didn’t get it” – meaning, the client didn’t understand the severity of the cybersecurity issues we discovered and didn’t know how to remedy the issues. I’d heard this phrase “they just don’t get it” or “they don’t understand” many times throughout my career. It hit me differently though this time and I realized that it is our role to make sure they get it. This made me realize the underlying issues in my industry – the general idea that a lot of highly technical people feel intellectually superior to others, so they posture, talk over people’s heads, etc. This is the real reason we are losing the cyberwar.

If you could have a dinner party and invite anyone dead or alive, who would you ask? 

I would invite Hitler. I find it intriguing how one man can influence so many to do such atrocious things. I’d love to gain some insight into his way of thinking, personality, what trauma he was struggling with, how he justified his actions, etc.

What do you hope people will take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel?

I hope my 7 Step Secure Methodology will give people the awareness and tools needed to improve their lives. I want people to feel great about themselves and realize they are capable of more than they think they are.

Do you have links that you’d like to share for others to read?

My website: https://christianespinosa.com/

Home
Check out Christian’s website

My book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08T6QK6FN

February 11, 2021

An Interview with Author Royal Gatson

Royal Gatson
Author Royal Gatson

Royal Gatson is a preacher, author, supervisor, and landlord. He is passionate about helping people in various ways. He is motivated and believes all things are possible to him who believes that all things are possible.

Where are you from? I am originally from Texas, but I now live in Kansas City.

Describe yourself in five words? Hard-working, enthusiastic, dependable, motivated, sociable

Tell us about your new book? Why did you write it? The book I just recently published is Proverbs Man. We have heard about the Proverbs 31 woman, but I never saw anything for men. So after some studying and praying I realized I needed to write this book. It is a smooth read, but it is also deep at the same time. A lot of revelation mixed with practical examples. I know it is a book that can help anyone.

Have you always enjoyed writing? No, I haven’t. Of course, I had to do a lot of writing in college. However, it was never something I enjoyed doing. I didn’t hate it, but it was just what I needed to do for school.

Why do you write? Honestly, I started writing because I had a lot of information in my head and nowhere to put it. So, I would just write things down along the way. Now it has turned into something that I do more frequently.

Gatson’s Book

What motivates you to write? People, I know what write down is something that help so many people that I may never get the chance to meet. Also, I know if I write it down and publish it then it will outlive me. What I write can help someone 300 years from now. I just want to make a difference.

Do you find it hard to share your work? Well, it isn’t my nature to be a pushy sells man. Nor do I bring it up in the context of a conversation unless it is natural. But at the same time, I know what I wrote, and I know it’s good. So, I would be doing a disservice if I didn’t talk about it or share it occasionally.

Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success inwriting look like to you? Growth and consistency. As long as I continue to get better, that’s successful. Success is also doing everything I intended to do. Meaning, if I have 5 book ideas in my head but stop at 2 because I got discouraged or because I was content with my success then that isn’t successful to me. I was already writing other books before I released the first one. That is because I know what I am supposed to be doing. As long as I stay consistent and continue to grow then that is successful to me. Which in time will also bring “success”.

How do you work through self-doubts and fear? By continuing to tell myself what God told me. God sees the end picture so I can’t let what I see in the moment discourage me. You have got to keep saying it until you believe it.

Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer? Just keep writing. The moment you stop is the moment you stop improving and start declining.

February 10, 2021

An Interview with Author Afonso Amaral

Afonso Amaral
Afonso Amaral

A practical and methodical professional with Lean Management, strong leadership and communication skills. A visionary with good eye for details particularly underlining performance improvement. A good planner skilled in gathering and analyzing information, used on development of strategies to achieve targets, maximizing profits.
Main objectives are to eventually open a business improvement consultancy company.

Hobbies:
Great sports lover, currently trying to finish writing my book( my own private challenge)

Where are you from?

I’m Portuguese, born in Sao Tome, my parents moved to Lisbon from my early age of 2, have then moved to England since 1996, so can consider myself a son of many countries, as I do embrace and consider all to be home

Describe yourself in five words,

Considerate, Self-critical, determined, friend to my friends, competitive

What fact about yourself would really surprise people? 

I’m quite shy, it takes time for me to feel at ease with someone

What scares you the most? 

If for some reason was no longer able to learn something new, to develop myself

What makes you happiest? 

Knowing that each day can bring a new opportunity, seeing my grandchild grow and smile, being able to help others expecting nothing in return

A book by Afonso Amaral

Why do you write? 

“Am I a Leader?” is my fist take on writing, my motivation and biggest driver into this book was the fact have seen so many bad or poor leaders destroying or negatively affecting the lives of people who under someone better equipped would have flourished to become good leaders themselves, have seen it for many years and lately started thinking that with a book like this I could actually help both sides, the leader and those who have suffered as they did not know how to deal with the situation, how to approach someone and talk about it.

What do you write about? 

My first book is about leadership, although more about the interactions and eventually mutual support between leader and follower, focused on the meaning and essence of leadership, however described by someone who has been on both sides and knows how bad a wrong decision or even posture can finish other’s ambitions

The book will be available for purchase on 22 February 2021

Do you have a specific writing style?

cannot say yet

What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? 

finding the right things to say, as you write there is a need to be conscious about what is being said, how will it be taken, but as you realise that it will mostly help it becomes easier to relax and say it as it is.

How long have you been writing?

This is my first book to be published however have turned writing to my hobby for many years, at the age of about 20 use to write poems and kept it in a notebook back in Portugal.

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

Being a writer is not something I can even imagine myself becoming to be honest unless I can see the work rewarded through be change on people’s lives, that is the reason have written this book, it was not about making loads of money, I would like to know that my book has had a positive impact on people, then would consider writing another and maybe at that stage consider myself a writer.

How long does it take to write a book?

It took me about 4 months to write this one but have had the manuscript in my head for some time therefore it was quicker to put pen to paper, otherwise believe that it would have taken about 6-8 months as there was quite some research done while writing.

What do you think makes a good story?

Anything that engages people’s minds, or hearts

If you could study any subject at university what would you pick? 

Psychology, I’m passionate about the human mind, I do enjoy immensely to learn about other cultures, so anything related to human mind and the way it functions amazes me, hence the fact enjoying working with diversity, people from around the world, different cultures, ways of thinking, etc…

What does your family think of your writing? 

my family was quite supportive

Do you see writing as a career?

As previously mentioned, it depends on how this one goes, my book was written for the mass, written in plain English so it can reach all, will want to see the impact on others before considering another

Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?

First will say that many great authors have written about leadership, but most have done it based on research or academic studies, my book is based on life experiences, based on actual facts witnessed, added to some research.

Would then like that all those who purchase the book or not to know that this was done for you, and for me “you” are all those I have witnessed being bullied or pushed aside by poor leaders, those who feel undervalued, those who believe there is no way out or you will never be someone. But then again “you” are all those who manage through fear, authority or simply do not know how to lead. Really hoping that something positive will be delivered into your future lives.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I do not consider myself a writer, too early to say that