Author: Jasveena R Prabhagaran

July 4, 2020

An Interview with Author Niraj Sharma

Author Niraj Sharma

Niraj Sharma has always spent the majority of his time involved in academia and working alongside his family’s newspaper publication as an assistant editor based in Toronto Canada. In keeping in contrast with these two aspects which served him both in a professional and academic light; this is also where he developed his love and fondness for the creative world of writing. In keeping with the path to pursue this passion, he had many ideas in his mind which explored the concept and topics of love, fatality, poetry, philosophy and of course fiction. With combining all of these different ideas it forced him into a state of being trapped in a deep writing frenzy which thus gave birth to his first-ever novel the penthouse. Niraj, however, is not stopping here though as he is continuing to his life’s passion for writing and has big plans for the arenas of non-fiction, poetry, and self-help books to come!

  • Where are you from?

I am From Toronto Canada.

  • Why do you write? 

I write because really and truly I know it is my passion and feel what I was born to do. More over writing I believe is like what an instrument is to a musician. I see it as an extension of my body, mind and soul and it means everything to me. That why I love to write every day!

  • What do you write about? 

I write about contemporary fiction mainly my first novel The Penthouse is more a crime fiction Italian mafia genre but my second novel released just this a few weeks ago Pinstripe Lust is a romance/suspense novel.

  • Do you have a specific writing style?

My writing style I feel is based on a lot of emotion as I try my best to paint a picture for reader and incorporate a lot of poetry into my writing. I want to keep my reader on the edge of their seat and fully engaged!

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

Some of the obstacles that come in the way of my writing are sometimes when I get “writers block” to a certain degree. It’s not to say that I get totally lost but sometimes in the middle of writing on a novel I do find there could be a particular scene that I am completely stuck on and cannot see pass. How I get over this is to write the first thing that comes to mind and go back restructure it. As a matter of fact I had this problem with The Penthouse and if I didn’t have the foresight to get pass this obstacle of not knowing how to deal with the scene and characters then I never would have completed the novel! So it does happen but the most important thing I find is to have perseverance and really stay positive and push yourself!

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

The most memorable thing that was asked by a reader about my work is they loved the ending to particular chapter as they told it had a brilliant ending. The word “Brilliant” really made me feel special and I hope I can live up to this name every time I sit down and write.

  • How long have you been writing?

I have been writing my whole life essentially, but professionally as an author has been for almost a year a now.

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

I realized I first wanted to become a writer as an author when I first had an idea in my head about a fictional crime story which was The Penthouse.  It was only an idea but what had happened actually or what give me the push I needed was when I saw a very touching documentary on J.K. Rowling and her story of how she wrote Harry Potter in which we all know. She was struggling with so many personal hardships and her script was rejected thirteen times and today she is the first female billionaire writer because of it! And I thought to myself “wow you know” that really inspired me to say to myself if that’s what it takes maybe my story is worth writing and that is how it all happened for me!

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

My work schedule when I write is wake up at 5 AM when I a most creative and after sipping some coffee or sometimes going for a morning walk. I take care of myself and after take care of my soul which is I do my prayers I then begin to write after on my laptop and I don’t stop until I am satisfied with what I have done.

  • What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I would say the one interesting writing quirk that I have is that I like to talk about my characters as if they were real! Like to me my characters like what actors are to directors. They are stars and like movie production I want them to shine and make people give them that feeling that make the engaged, laugh or even cry. I want to give that realness and live through their eyes.

  • How long does it take to write a book? (if you’ve written one -published or non) My first novel took around 6 months to write and it took a few months to write my second novel.  I like to take my time and write and go back and take my time to review my writing.
  • Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?

I believe like all things it takes humility to say that we all have things we could work on. For in terms of improvement I would sometimes I may be a little repetitive in how I go over things in a novel but I do this on purpose to make a point that like in real life we all have routines and I think that if I can possible curtail this a bit it will do some good in my writing style. 

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

Some of the challenges I face when I come across a story is using conflict or maybe how to angle a scene with slight deviation from let say a love story. But essentially it does get tough but it can be overcome with a little imagination!

  • What do you think makes a good story?

I think what makes a good story is emotion or good love story and that is why for this reason I want to continue to merge into writing romance novels!

  • What does your family think of your writing? 

My family to be honest supports me as a writer and do find some of the chapters surprising as they always ask me “how did you come up with this” so it really reflects my spark of creativity in which I want to continue to profile.

  • Do you see writing as a career?

I definitely do see writing as a career and by God’s grace my ambition is to become a best seller and world class author.

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

I would like readers to continue to stay engaged with me and of course my biggest goal and achievement is satisfying my reader’s palate. If I can entertain people with my writing and they enjoy it then I am very pleased! And thank you very much, Jasveena for taking the time for this interview!

Visit http://www.nirajsharmaauthor.com/ for more info about author Niraj Sharma

July 4, 2020

An Interview with Author Lily Nicole

The Quarter Percent by Lily Nicole

• Why do you write? 

I write because I can. I wrote my first novel when I was 10 years old. It was a murder mystery, something like Agatha Christie. I made my aunt read and critique it for me. 

• What do you write about? 

I publish poetry, reflections essays, and fiction on my blog Sabiscuit’s Catalog. 

www.sabiscuit.wordpress.com

• Do you have a specific writing style?

My style is mostly descriptive and it depends on what I am writing. If I’m writing about my personal experiences, or offering opinions, I am less structured. 

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

Thinking too much about whether readers will remember that they are reading fiction and try to engage with the story as if it were factual. Based on the reactions I’ve had to some of my fiction writing, I realise that not everyone is capable of suspending their disbelief. 

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

Actually, on my blog, years ago, I published a series of short stories that form the basis of my novel, The Quarter Percent. A well-known author, who writes fantasy fiction, told me that she would buy the novel version if I published it. Her encouraging words are what led me here.

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

Writing has always been a part of me. I am an avid reader and I didn’t realise I had the ability to write poetry or fiction until I did. 

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

My schedule is, whenever I have some free time. If I have to sit in front of my computer, my time is going to be limited. Whereas if I can find 15 to 20 minutes to dictate a story and polish it up over several passes, that’s a lot more comfortable for me. I like to be relaxed when I’m writing. This means talking into my phone or my tablet. 

• What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

Dictating entire scenes into my phone or tablet while I’m at my favourite coffee shop. And I don’t care who is overhearing. I also edit to a soundtrack. Each story or scene has its own soundtrack. This is a trick I used when I directed stage plays. Using a song helps to set the tempo of a scene, and keeps the actors moving along on cue.

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

Writing a short fiction story does not take a long time. But I will spend a lot of time editing. This novel took me two years to complete. One year to write, almost a year of not looking at it and then two months of redrafting and daily editing. That was because I wasn’t sure I was going to publish it. 

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

Yes. I always go back over my work and read it from the perspective of the reader. Also, I read from the perspective of the characters. And then from the perspective of a critic. I have spent a lot of time listening to people who critique films and they always complain about the writing more than acting or cinematography. Readers don’t always want an easy solution to a problem. A scene at the end of my novel has the Crown Princess trying to intimidate a national leader. My original version of the scene had him trembling at the prospect of being forced to make a public confession. But I asked myself if he would really back down that easily. I thought, “What’s the best way out of the situation?” And then I made them have that conversation. The unresolved conflict in this scene allows for a more satisfying ending because you find out what the Crown Princess was up to, starting with a Sunday morning breakfast meeting in the first chapter. 

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

For one thing, the futuristic technology that I created in my novel had to be based on real science. However, I needed to write it so anyone could understand exactly how it works. To do that, I made the most complex technical explanations conversational. For those scenes, I wanted the reader to overhear a conversation. You never feel you have to understand everything fully in a situation like this.

• What do you think makes a good story?

The more you like your characters, the better your story is going to be. I deleted about five scenes from my novel because I didn’t think the conversation were that interesting. 

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

Yes. Thank you very much for reading this interview. I am grateful for your time. I hope that you enjoy reading the beta version of my novel. And I am looking forward to hearing from you.

• When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I consider myself an artist first, with writing as one of the formats that I work with. I once did a three-month installation of fiction writing on my blog, entirely in dialogue format. I enjoyed that experience very much.

June 27, 2020

Book Review: Murphy Murphy: And The Case of Serious Crisis by Keith Hirshland

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Murphy Murphy comes from a long line of male Murphys. All were named Murphy and all were cops. This Murphy heads the Department of Redundancy Department and his superior officer, Captain David “Dud” Hill has found him a case. The Captain’s niece is in a rock ‘n roll band called Serious Crisis, and it seems items belonging to members of the band have started to disappear.

Were these items stolen? Were they simply lost? As Murphy Murphy works the case, he must chase down the clues all the while dealing with grammatical anomalies that drive him crazy. As Murphy gets closer to the answers he seeks, one more “thing” goes missing; the Captain’s niece. Suddenly, in an instant, the stakes in the case of Serious Crisis become a lot more dire.

Part Jasper Fforde, part Michael Connelly; Murphy Murphy, and the Case of Serious Crisis combines humor, mystery, and grammar goofs as the detective pursues clues and suspects from coast to coast. It’s an entertaining and educational read for all ages.

I wouldn’t lie, I had to re-read most of the sentences in the book due to the heavy wordplay in the book, which made me think a lot as well. Learning that the author is a television producer and an Emmy award recepient as well with over three decades of experience, one could easily tell why this book is old-fashioned. It would definitely remind you of TV shows like “Mind Your Language” and the witty characters in the book, especially the protagonist reminds me of Sheldon Cooper from “The Big Bang Theory” show.

A genre that is usually serious is made funny and entertaining, just like the old-fashioned way of storytelling. A five star for this well thought out book. A great job! I am now curious to check out the TV shows the author produced before this!

June 24, 2020

Book Review: Keeping the Lights on for Ike

Keeping The Lights On For Ike

Blurb:

Most people don’t realize that during the war in Europe in the 1940s, it took an average of six support soldiers to make the work of four combat soldiers possible. Most of what’s available in the literature tends toward combat narratives, and yet the support soldiers had complex and unique experiences as well. This book is based on personal correspondence, and it is primarily a memoir that creates a picture of the day-to-day realities of an individual soldier told in his own words [as much as he could tell under the wartime rules of censorship, that is] as well as giving insight into what it was actually like to be an American soldier during WWII. It explores the experiences of a non-combat Army utilities engineer working in a combat zone during the war in Europe and takes the protagonist from basic training through various overseas assignments—in this case to England, North Africa, and Italy as a support soldier under Eisenhower and his successors at Allied Force Headquarters. It also includes some reflections about his life after returning to Oregon when the war was over.

The soldier involved is Captain Harold Alec Daniels [OSU, Class of 1939, ROTC] and most of the letters were written to his wife, Mary Daniels [attended U of O in the late 1930s]. They are the author’s parents, and she inherited the letter collection, photos, and all other primary source materials after her mother’s death in 2006.

Review:

If you are someone who loves history, this book will fascinate you as you learn the journey of a utilities engineer during the World War II, through his letters to his wife, and how essential the services of engineers were during one of the difficult times the human race had faced before. Alec and Mary are the author’s parents and this beautiful memoir will move you with the love between Alec and Mary, and how they kept the marriage alive throughout the War.

I must say it was an intense read, not knowing what will happen to Alec. I loved reading this book. A five star for this book.

June 19, 2020

An Interview with Josie Harris

Undisputed Love by Josie Harris
  • Where are you from?

Orange County, CA

  • Why do you write? 

Passionate to write.

  • What do you write about? 

I write mostly true stories.

  • Do you have a specific writing style?

My writing style is simple. I think of my titles, and write to them. There is no special order. I may start with chapter 5 and come back to chapter 9.

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

I have no obstacles, when I put my mind to something I focus and make it happen

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

I write just like regular people speak. I don’t choose to use words that cause people to Google it

  • How long have you been writing?

I have been writing since 1993

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

When I was in my early thirties.

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

I spend at east 2 to 4 hours a day writing or researching

  • What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

It’s hard to say

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

I have written a 218-page book within 14-days, 10 hours a day

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

Writer must focus on their work. You cannot have a lot of things going on at the same time. If you choose to write then write. If you choose to dance then go dancing

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

My challenges have been noise. I like things to be quite. If I have music on it’s turned down so low only I can hear it.

  • What do you think makes a good story?

A story about real events and people

  • What does your family think of your writing? 

They love my writing because I never sugar coat the truth

  • Do you see writing as a career?

I do see writing a career and a passion of mine

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

To my readers. Enjoy the book you read because so much goes into writing and editing a book. Get into the story and place yourself in the characters shoes. Get lost in the story.

  • When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I became a writer when I published my first book in the late eighties.

Buy a copy on Amazon
June 19, 2020

An Interview with Chris M. Jones

Chris Jones

Dr. Christopher Jones is an author that loves to read most of the time self-help, motivation, and technology-themed books. Dr. Jones has written many successful self-help books such as insight of perseverance and word to the wise that showed what can be achieved by anyone. Dr. Jones has come out of his shell and brought his knowledge and love of technology to the new fiction book SIMULATION – Intelligence is no longer artificial a tale of a societal cleansing by a tyrannical computer system is not only a riveting story of things to come.

SIMULATION COVER
Simulation on Amazon
Simulation by Chris M. Jones
  • Where are you from?

Dallas Tx

  • Why do you write? 

Writing has always been a passion of mine I started with an autobiography then moved to self-help and I think I found my calling in fiction.

  • What do you write about? 

I am actual all over the map I have written 2 self help books a children’s book and how I am on fiction.

  • Do you have a specific writing style?

Everything should flow and I write when I am at my best when there is no stress and my mind is free form distractions. Some may ask so you never write but I find time here and there to unplug.

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

Time is always an obstacle if you do not make time for your story it will never come true.

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

This was from my autobiography I had a lot of questions about me being an albino and about my vision impairment and if it affects me in my day to day life as well as writing.

  • How long have you been writing?

I have been writing for about 8 years now not publishing each year but that was the start of my writing journey.

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

I have never been a heavy writer but when I started my autobiography I wanted to tell a story about my struggles in life and form there I started this writing career. I say I realized this when I stared to get real feedback from my readers letting me know that my work helped them in some way.

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

Everything should flow and I write when I am at my best when there is no stress and my mind is free form distractions. Some may ask so you never write but I find time here and there to unplug.

  • What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I love to create things that are immersive such as music artwork or websites that draw not only the reader into the story but myself.

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

This depends on what type of book most of my books take about a year form start to finish and when it comes  to fiction books it can take longer for character buildup.

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

Becoming a better writer is not what others think about your writing it’s about doing something that you love. Never write just to sell books write to bring stories to life.

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

Since this was my first fiction book there was a slight challenge to make sure that I create characters that relate to present day as much as posable.

  • What do you think makes a good story?

Anything that sucks the reader into the story and have them, wanting more and to never put the book down. This is also a double edge sword because readers will always want more if the story is good.

  • What does your family think of your writing? 

They love it but never knew I had it in me to venture off into a fictional world that was so vibrant.

  • Do you see writing as a career?

Yes at first I wanted to stick with nonfiction but I think my calling is fiction.

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

I want the readers to thing deep about the stories I tell everything has a meaning and something to take from it every book I write I make sure that I am relaying a message.

  • When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I have never been a heavy writer but when I started my autobiography I wanted to tell a story about my struggles in life and form there I started this writing career.

Our Love Conquers All

Follow Dr. Jones here https://neuralstitch.com/

Link to my FB page: https://www.facebook.com/joneschris903/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joneschris903

Spotify Soundtrack : https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2SE…

June 16, 2020

Live Interview with Filmmaker Richard Rossi and Knight Rider Star Rebecca Holden

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Your Next Page-Turner

An Interview with Filmmaker Richard Rossi and Knight Rider Star Rebecca Holden

16th June 2020 8.00 -9.00PM CDT on Facebook page (International Book Promotion)

Watch the live interview here https://www.facebook.com/InternationalBookPromotion/videos/727900951085423/

Book-to-film adaptations: The art of filmmaking

Canaan Land, a controversial new novel by Richard Rossi, has rocked the church world with its expose of fraudulent healing techniques by televangelists who take advantage of followers in times of world crisis. Filmmaker Richard Rossi’s Canaan Land novel and film addresses such issues as ministers “fleecing the flock.”

Most recently, his novel Canaan Land has now become available on https://buff.ly/3d7iiZC , with a feature film version, directed by and starring Rossi, to be released later this year. The “Canaan Land” novel tells the story of a con man preacher, abused by another preacher as a boy, who falls for a sincere Christian woman and realizes his con game isn’t a game anymore. Both the book and the film are, in part, a reflection on Rossi’s own spiritual journey as a former “faith healer” and the bitter lessons he learned.

His new life ministry is geared towards the spiritual renewal and creative expression of others. Renaissance man Richard Rossi is an American filmmaker, actor, writer, radio host, and maverick minister. His previous books include Stick Man and Sister Aimee.

His films as Producer/Director include Baseball’s Last Hero: 21 Clemente Stories (2013) and Sister Aimee (2006). The Canaan Land film is executive produced by and co-stars Rebecca Holden, co-star of the Knight Rider TV series. The film also includes cameos by TV and film stars such as Lynda Carter (Wonder Woman), Cindy Williams (Laverne and Shirley) and more.

Official Website for Novel and Film: https://buff.ly/3e44TTG

June 12, 2020

An Interview with Author Julia George

Julia George
Julia George

Julia George Born in May 22nd yr84″ Is a Asian American who is an American Citizen and the Author of the book Amala – A Life On Lockdown. She lives in Los Angeles, in a boring town known as Lomita. Loves India and the rich heritage and cultures and vibes of India.
A struggling artist, the authors identity is compromised by many other Julia George combo’s She is a Actor/ Singer/ Choreographer and now a Author.
She has done three International Films So far.
She wrote this first book in a span of 7 hours. So is requesting all fellow author come proofreader fanatics out there lay Their proof reading skills down and have fun and enjoy the story. Readers will surely know why the book is scripted the way it is, when they actually read through the book. Hope you enjoy my first attempt and Someday hoping that Amala- A life on Lockdown will be featured as a world famous film.

  • Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a certified trained meditation practitioner, and I have attained a masters in women’s health. That is why it is well assured that meditation works and is a tried and tested option for holistic healing, and it became an option to be shared with all individuals who need it the most.

There is a google play app the author is launching with her team, which focuses on meditation. Keep in touch with the author through her website and the social media links attached at the end of this post.

  • What is the connection between meditation and healing?

The importance of Meditation to heal was clearly evident to me with the present situations all have been affected with. Just because all have been affected with the severity of the pandemic, would we send all to psychiatrists and help them all with psych meds? Or can we show them a way to heal inside out? Meditation does just that. Especially when you don’t have another option to focus on.

  • Who do you particularly target to help and why?

Many get cheated by a spouse or family members into psychiatry and other illness aspects. They will provoke situations where one will react and use that as an evidence to screw their life up. It all started with my fiction book Amala: A life on lockdown. I was busy promoting that and a few responses to the book got me thinking. I realized many women behind closed doors of marriage are going through the same issues of life. So even if you save the women going through such issues, what will one do? Life here in California, there are homes for women who have been through domestic violence, once a woman tries to own up she is abused. All these shelter homes are associated with psychiatrist for assessments, at the end of the day whether the women decides to go-ahead with help from the domestic violence help canter’s or not, it does not matter, even without the knowledge of the women she will be assessed by a psychiatrist, who will diagnose her.

This is the sad truth of every abused women, they end up becoming statistics for psychiatry, this was one issue already setting in as something what needs focus on, when several men and women start having social melt downs because of the pandemic Covid-19 situations. That is when meditation showed up as an option to be shared. Not just for abused women, but for all those who don’t want to just turn into mere statistics in real life just because their spouse, sibling or someone who is a friend or family hates you or wants to use the worst prank in your life…..

  • What can the victims to do heal themselves?

Instead select an option of self-healing where you and only you are in control, the main key aspect of meditation is to forgive, not asking to embrace the abuser or the bad things what have happened but to find a way to accept, which is extremely essential to heal, for once, as a learning curve in your life. Once that sets in, then stay away from the negative, accept the things you cannot change. Once this aspect is taken care of, then the next part is start a process of meditation that suits ones daily routine. The harmony of chakras and the pressure point of your hands and legs which will all help in the inner healing and meditation.

Meditation To Heal
  • Why do you think the holistic approaches are not used as much as they are supposed to?

The option of meditation and all other holistic approaches have always been there, but the present generation of teenagers, have never been able to embrace such options. They are unknowingly lead only to the option of psychiatry. My job is to find a way to help abused women and many others who are perplexed in the present times. Please don’t think a religion should be a barrier to accepting meditation. Just look at it this way, no matter what your faith is, you can get cheated into psychiatric diagnosis and meds even without your own knowledge. Then, why won’t one take meditation and self-heal and rebuild your strength on one’s self decision? Liver and kidneys and lungs are equally harmed by medications as much as alcohol and smoking. So is to say about eating habits which also simultaneously reflect on what a person feels and how they react to life situations. A person who drinks cold milk and a person who drinks hot coffee react differently to one similar situation if put in, just a analytic aspect but as I mentioned, it is essential to understand that it takes one person to look at healing oneself inside out holistically approach meditation. Not for the mere healing aspect of life.   

Meditation to Heal

Follow me on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julia.george.official
Instagram Julia.g.official
Website : https://lifeasitisin360.webstarts.com/index.html?r=20200608074706
A feature about the author.
http://www.us-mag.club/2020/04/05/amala-a-life-on-lockdown-by-julia-george/

June 12, 2020

An Interview with Author Lisa K. Stephenson

Lisa K. Stephenson
Lisa K. Stephenson

Lisa K. Stephenson of The Bronx, New York is the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Kombination Kouture Company, a commerce through it’s many divisions and subsidiaries have begun to make its way into the lives and hearts of many.

Ms. Stephenson is a native of The Bronx, New York. As the daughter of a single parent and from a family immersed in African-American studies, she determined early on that education, independence and equal justice were important for all women and men of color. Her educational development began as a student at Monroe College of New Rochelle where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice with honors. Lisa is now an author, motivational speaker, entrepreneur and philanthropist.

Professionally, Lisa owns and manages the following companies and subsidiaries, Kombination Kouture LLC, She’s SINGLE Magazine and Wilson Book Group as well as authoring and touring novels such as The Yellow Brownstone and Even My Hair Is Mad. Her latest self-help book entitled: Love Smart, Love Independently is set to release Fall 2020. In the interim, Lisa has begun conducting workshops, seminars and hosting podcasts where she delivers a powerful message to women, How to Have it All: Independence and Healthy Intimacy.

The idea of becoming an entrepreneur came to Lisa when she discovered that many women do not have the privilege of creating generational wealth for the families they raise. Lisa wishes to change this. She has also served time in the United States Army where she learned the importance of discipline, time and self-regulation.

Ms. Stephenson possesses a vast amount of experience as a leader, speaker, writer and business consultant leading numerous successful business campaigns and book tours. She has several years of active membership and involvement in many civic and community organizations. Lisa currently resides in The Bronx, New York.

  • Where are you from?

I was born and partially raised in The Bronx, NY. I also spent some time growing up in both Boston and Maryland.

  • Why do you write? 

When I first began writing it was because I had such amazing ideas and I really wanted to get them out, now, it’s mainly to escape from my own reality. The female characters I write about, they live a life without boundaries or worry, they live a life where men cater to them and so, I am living vicariously through them.

  • What do you write about? 

I mainly write about women who find themselves in tumultuous relationships or unbalanced playing fields when it comes to their lives. There is always some internal conflict they need to overcome whether it is jealousy, low self-esteem, co-dependency or just lack of knowledge for particular situations they may find themselves in. However, they always bounce back, learn from their mistakes and find happiness.

  • Do you have a specific writing style?

I have various writing styles since I’ve written so many different genres: narrative, creative non-fiction as found in She’s SINGLE Magazine and of course expository since I have been working on a self-help book as well entitled: [Love Smart, Love Independently] published by Wilson Book Group.

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

For me personally it lands about 75% through the book where I begin working on the falling action, I tend to get bored lol. I think that’s the only part of writing I am not too fond of. I typically dislike anything that I deem predictable, like comedy movies, I do not watch because the end is always the same in a sense. So, with my falling action/resolution I try to keep it spunky otherwise to avoid that feeling of boredom. That’s one of my obstacles, another is of course writers block. I am not one to cheat my fans EVER! I once read a book where the ending was so rushed, I was so angry afterward. But I continued it because momma ain’t raise no quitter. With my novels I like to take my time even if that means I’m going to miss my deadline.

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

“Why was Nova so mean to Hunter when he was a good guy that liked her?” I had to explain that my character did not reject Hunter because she deemed him unattractive or him having a dull personality, she did what I feel rightfully so many women should be doing if they ever find themselves in Nova’s shoes. Nova [Even My Hair Is Mad] made the decision NOT to rebound with hunter, she was newly divorced, trying to rebuild her life, find her independence and build a foundation for her and her son. If anything, she did Hunter a favor by not roping him into her life as she was still trying to figure things out.

  • How long have you been writing?

I have been writing since I was a sophomore in college. I wrote this short story [Niki] for a class assignment—it was about a 15-year-old girl who began having an affair with her father—my professor liked the story so much he first asked, “Do you need to go to counseling?” one day after class let out. I was so confused, of course, he thought the little girl I had written about was myself lol. How silly. Any who, once he realized that wasn’t the case, he praised me heavily for my writing skills asking if he may use my story as an example for his other classes. I agreed.

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

I was lying in bed in my college dormitory and things around me just seemed strange like it wasn’t happening correctly. Like life was out of bounds. So I remember taking out my blackberry and writing some notes about what was happening around me from the tree branches cracking outdoors to the hard snowflakes slapping against my windows and the curtains vehemently beating against the walls when the wind would subside every few minutes or so…I started writing about Nicholas from [Borderline] shortly thereafter.

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

Completely indulged in the evenings, about 6pm-10pm and sometimes longer depending on how engulfed I am with the story of a particular character. I once wrote all night because while writing about Irving being saved from his abusive household by Rose from CPS I began to weep. I had to keep going, my mind was thinking of the next scene faster than I could type. I didn’t want to end up losing my train of thought.

  • What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I pull character inspiration for all of my male characters from every man I’ve ever dated or had an intimate relationship in my life. Lol I am the author Taylor Swift.

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

It depends, I’ve once written 3 books in 4 months and then another book took me 2 years. So it honestly just depends on how I am feeling at the time and what is going on in my life.

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

I do. I think it’s important for writers to see the world through a different pair of lenses. Others see the world one way, straight forward, actionable, dramatic etc. While as a writer you have to see the world differently because your job is taking someone from their reality and have them encompassed in the life of a character you’re building. Readers want to escape, yet they want to relate, they want a positive outcome so that they may feel that there is a light at the end of the tunnel even if for them…there isn’t. Excellent writing comes from having an open mind, being a visionary, traveling, someone with patience and the ability to be versatile. Also, you have to read other books!

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

Wrapping it up. I’ve gotten some bad reviews about my endings not being happy. Um, I try to be as realistic as possible and sometimes it’s part one to the story they’re reading. I think it’s important to leave people wanting more and helping them to understand that life is a marathon, not a sprint. To really feel drawn to a character and emotionally invested into a character you can’t just meet them once. I like when my readers look forward to the character development, the positive progression of my characters throughout their journey.

  • What do you think makes a good story?

A great lesson, a great message. Something with substance.

  • What does your family think of your writing? 

They love it, oh, especially my dad. He’s a proud man that one lol.

  • Do you see writing as a career?

Absolutely. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be able to invest so heavily into it. Whether that is the creative process or just marketing or investing my time to answer readers’ questions.

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

DM me lol. Don’t be shy!

  • When did you first consider yourself a writer?

When I completed [Covenant: The Sister Series Compilation] and so many women wrote me on Instagram to tell me how much they loved the stories, but especially enjoyed the one in the end, [Oxygen]. I documented the toxic relationship I had with my ex through two fictional characters who were named Kayla and Kara. I purposely named the women with the first letter (K) like the daughter my ex had when he cheated on me to make her. I knew in that moment I was a writer; I knew I had found my therapy, my outlet and a way to help women not to make the same mistakes I did.

www.lisakstephenson.com

June 9, 2020

An Interview with Author Ella Jayne West

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Goodbye Narcissist, Hello Self Love by Ella Jayne West

Ella Jayne West is extremely proud and excited to share her latest work Goodbye Narcissist Hello Self Love. The project might have been a lengthy one, but this was one story that really needed to be told. Inspired by true events, Goodbye Narcissist Hello Self Love provides you with an insight into one woman’s journey overcoming narcissistic abuse and finding the path to self love. It offers strategies and resources for your own healing and path to self love and learning how to recognise the signs and red flags of abusive relationships. It is an opportunity for you to set yourself free and finally understand it was never about the Narcissist, it was always about you and discovering how incredible you truly are.

To celebrate 🎉 the upcoming launch of Goodbye Narcissist Hello Self Love, ONE lucky follower of this page will be in the running to Win a Signed Autographed Copy of Goodbye Narcissist Hello Self Love – Check out the latest post on Facebook to enter the giveaway.

Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself

Ella Jayne West is an Indie author from Sydney Australia.

Ella has always had a passion for books and writing from a young age but only began her journey as an author with her first book, Goodbye Narcissist Hello Self Love.

Q. What do you enjoy during your spare time?

I enjoy bushwalking, camping and music and I’m often described as quiet (until you get to know me lol), kind, caring and compassionate by others.

Q. One surprising fact about you?

One surprising fact about me is that I read Tarot Cards.

Q. Do you experience any self doubts or fears?

I don’t usually have doubts and have experienced many failures so I tend to be pretty philosophical about life and what will be will be.

Q. Why did you write this book?

I wrote Goodbye Narcissist Hello Self Love initially as a part of my own healing process and self love journey, however felt led to continue on my writing journey to help others in their own healing and growth.

Q. What books did you enjoy growing up with?

When I was growing up, my days and nights were often spent reading books from a broad range of genres including Agatha Christie, Enid Blyton and yes even some romance novels lol.

It is my hope that I can leave behind a legacy that changes the world in some way and that I made a difference.

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

If I could live anywhere in the world, it would be where I live now. I love my country, Australia but maybe I’d consider a chalet in France for the Summer J

Q. Who would you like to acknowledge?

I’d like to acknowledge a few people that have supported me on my writing journey:

My Son Patrick, my dearest friend Linda and Mouse and Zil. There have been many people who have supported and encouraged me and I am blessed and filled with gratitude for them.

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

My book, Goodbye Narcissist Hello Self Love is due to be released this month and I promote the book on my Facebook page and YouTube videos and articles related to the theme of the book which is inspired by true events and is a semi memoir/ self help book.

Q. Tell us about your new book, why did you write it?

It is my hope that this book will support people who have experienced this abuse, recognise the signs and red flags and start their healing journey to self love.

Visit the author’s website at https://ellajwest.wixsite.com/ellajaynewestgoodbye

Follow her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/AGuideToHealingYourInnerWoundsThroughSelfLove