I’ve opened the slot for FREE Publicity this month to honour our effort in writing tirelessly during the NaNoWriMo. As you know, I absolutely love reading non-fiction books, and today I am honoured to feature author Nina Norstorm who writes fearlessly about her very own life experience.
If you’d like to showcase your NaNo project, sign up using the link above, share your story and send us the following details:
What you write.
Why you write.
What you intend to achieve by writing.
About the author: (For more details, visit Nina Norstrom)
I am the writer and author of the literary creations, Not a Blueprint It’s the Shoe Prints that Matter / A Journey Through Toxic Relationships and Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall . . . Where Does My Self-Love Fall? / A Success Guide to Replace Toxicity with Love. It is through those works I’m able to empower and enlighten others on wellness lifestyles. In a million years, I wouldn’t have imagined or dreamed of being a published author with non-fiction and self-help genres (under my name). In actuality, journaling became a necessity for several reasons. It’s a fact writing can be cathartic! What better source to give credence to its statement than Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry.
Whether you know it or not, I’m not one who loves to embrace a camera. Of course, that’s why one will hardly ever find my facial image anywhere on social media. If connecting face-to-face, I can readily be identified. I’ll be the one wearing a hat and rarely seen without it. When having an opened interview on the screen, I’ll wear my special hat . . . the one with its black, long, dark netted veil. I’ve hidden behind the veil ‘cause it symbolizes and presents a statement for thousands and millions of Americans ─ who still live in that dark place. This dark space is where I too once resided for over a decade. It represents the voiceless; those who are captured in toxic relationships but don’t speak out. It represents relationships that need to be unmasked to determine whether it’s healthy or unhealthy. We won’t know what or who is behind the mask until it’s unveiled . . . people; diseases; emotions; feelings; drugs; work environments; sex-offenders; sex-traffickers; sex-abusers; and the list goes on.
As an author and avid reader (myself), I favor writing titles that are on non-fiction and self-help genres. I not only embrace those literary topics, I love reading these amazing genres from other writers.
I started writing for several reasons. I’ll share only two of those . . .
1) The writing helped to break through the barriers and release lots of built-up toxicity. During the process, there was nothing more rewarding and comforting than writing about the events and pain. Although life tends to move fast, we should not brush (no) rush through it. The experiences of our journey are well-worth embracing and exploring. There is much to be learned from the lessons we gain along the way.
2) Journaling was the one thing I had to relieve the rawness of pain, nurture my wounds, and escape that tunnel of darkness I lived in. When I was journaling, it was so therapeutic and became a safe haven. Writing therapy helped to understand those dysfunctional relationships and define where I was in life.
Moreover, it about peeling off the layers of “self” ─ while uncovering who I truly was ─ and learning what self-care is all about.
My level of achievement was to acknowledge, we all are storytellers. And what better way to release it then through relatable candor. I wanted my creations and its message to resonate with readers ‘cause they identify with reality. To garner readership, I wrote in a way I could connect the story to readers’ interest; and even the hard-core painful truth brings to light principles. Those principles were the many lessons readers would gain from the story. Writing vividly was extremely important for me to ensure sensory details were a part of the pieces; whereas, readers could personally experience the varied moments. Through it all, it was my intention that readers have an educational and enriching experience. Most importantly, know that no one walks alone.
H.K. Belvedere is an author from the United Kingdom. He became interested in writing towards his late twenties but felt he was not quite ready to attempt his own novel. After some deep research and soul searching, he set about writing his debut novel, Beyond the Blue Girl.
Where are you from? – The United Kingdom.
Why do you write? – To release inner demons and enlighten the public
What do you write about? – Issues that others can’t or simply won’t entertain
Do you have a specific writing style? – Dark, cynical, ruthless and direct.
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? – None, only my mind
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work? – This is too deep & how do you know that?
How long have you been writing? – 1 year seriously, maybe 2. Who counts?
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer? – When I could not hold in these thoughts any longer. Around October 2017.
What is your work schedule like when you are writing? – Spontaneous.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? – The ability to be so sarcastic & vile yet truthful
How long does it take to write a book? (if you’ve written one -published or non) – 1 year for my debut Novel “Beyond The Blue Girl”
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer? – Read more
What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story? – My own mind and unclean entities that distract me from my art.
What do you think makes a good story? – Engaging the raw emotions, getting into the readers mind in a swift and callous fashion.
What does your family think of your writing? – Outraged in public, delighted in private.
Do you see writing as a career? – Yes, a very lucrative one!
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers? – Stop looking for comfort blankets, start reading “Beyond The Blue Girl” By H.K. Belvedere.
When did you first consider yourself a writer? – March 2019 (officially)
Find H.K Belvedere’s book on Amazon and follow the author on social media below.
A mysterious man from the past steals the time travel lantern. When Eve and Patrick find it, they destroy it. Eve’s life is shattered. She must return to the past, where secrets await.
In the third novel of THE CHRISTMAS EVE series, Eve and Patrick Gantly are living a normal life in 2019 New York, preparing to celebrate the Christmas season. Patrick is taking courses in forensic psychology and Eve continues to work as a nurse practitioner. To their delight, she is three months pregnant.
Despite their happiness, Eve is having premonitions that something dreadful is about to occur. Concerned about the future and the safety of their child, she insists that they destroy the time travel lantern. Patrick is more cautious.
One afternoon when Patrick is out, a sinister man breaks into the apartment and forces Eve to give him the lantern. In many ways, Eve is relieved the lantern is gone. She hopes they can now live a more normal life. A day later, Patrick shadows a woman who has been staking out the Gantly’s brownstone apartment, and he confronts her. To his and Eve’s utter shock, they learn that Lucy Rose is from 1924 and that she time-traveled with the man who took the lantern. He returned to 1924, but she chose to stay behind. She offers to sell the lantern back to Eve and Patrick, and they reluctantly agree, hoping to keep it out of unscrupulous hands.
Convinced that the lantern is a threat to their future happiness, Eve and Patrick decide to destroy it.
But the lantern has more power than they could have ever imagined. Once the lantern is destroyed, Eve’s life is completely changed. She must set off on an adventure, in a struggle that will return her to the past, where she will learn the secret of the lantern’s origin and delve into the farthest reaches of her heart.
Review:
This is book 3 of ‘The Christmas Eve’ series and it can be read as part of the series or on it’s own but I believe when all three is read, you get the idea of how one character is connected to the other in detail.
Time travel is perhaps a genre that everybody enjoys reading and I am no exception in this case. Being a fan of chicklit books and those that highlight the lives of women, I have to say that I enjoyed the part where Eve and Partrick were brought back to 1884, where oppression against women was greater than it is now.
I love how Eve puts in effort to make sure that she doesn’t lose Patrick and although she finds it uncomfortable to be transported back in time, she eventually gets used to it. I love the way the authors weave the story, in a simple, yet enjoyable manner.
I would rate this book an easy read as you get hooked on to the story rather quickly.
Catch the Live interview with Brian HERE at 8PM CST 24th October 2019
Brian C. Dobbs encourages “cultural shift” in new personal development book – Uniquely Called
Dynamic speaker, minister and business coach releases his latest book, where he aims to help readers trigger life-changing emotions and actions
Brian C. Dobbs is known for his unique combination of faith, personal progression, and professional development to create tremendous growth toward powerful, substantial results. In a similar vein and in line with his goals of helping as many people as possible to discover their calling and reach their full potential, Brian just released a new book titled “Uniquely Called.”
The world is usually quick to celebrate the achievements of people who have excelled on different grounds. While some people know and appreciate the struggles of the successful ones, others are not particularly aware of their exploits. However, while millions of people can also achieve amazing feats by simply identifying their calling and sticking to it, many people do not have an idea of how to forge ahead. This is where Brian C. Dobbs seeks to inspire readers to take the right actions that will spur them to success.
“Uniquely Called” has been described as a “thrilling journey,” chronicling the challenges, obstacles, and peak-and-valley moments of people that have realized their calling and made the best of their time on earth. The book offers a captivating insight into the lives of different characters and how they were able to go against all odds to achieve their live goals.
The author of the book, Brian C. Dobbs, aims to touch the lives of readers while ultimately leading to a shift in culture to create a better place for others. Over the years, he has been featured on different industry platforms, using his wealth of experience and knowledge to motivate and inspire countless people to greatness. Brian is looking to continue his work of literally speaking greatness into individuals across the globe.
For more information about Uniquely Called and other work by Brian C. Dobbs, please visit – https://briancdobbs.com/. Brian is also available across several social media platforms, including Facebook and LinkedIn.
About Brian C. Dobbs
Brian C. Dobbs is a dynamic speaker, minister and business coach who is popular for speaking and coaching professionals, corporations, churches and organizations on the importance of reaching success through relationship building and identifying one’s personal brand. Through public speaking and business coaching, Brian guides teams and individuals on a journey where they first find their purpose and then determine how to utilize it to their fullest advantage.
1. How did you get into entrepreneurship? Please tell us more about your journey as an entrepreneur.
a. My earliest experience as an entrepreneur was when I was
around 16 years old. I got a job as a
lifeguard and taught swimming lessons. I
started doing private lessons for individual and groups.
b. There has always been a yearning inside of me to create,
build and make an impact. My journey has
had challenges, road blocks, obstacles and peak moments. The joy that I get when I can create
something that produces the results I want keeps me going.
2. Who are my role models?
Great question. I
have several people I follow and consider role models which include some greats
as Jim Rohn, Zig Ziglar, Billy Graham and Henry Ford.
3. Did you read any books that inspired or motivated you on your journey?
Yes, I read many books including Darren Hardy’s book, Entrepreneurial
Roller Coaster and Carol Dweck’s book Mindset both had a huge impact.
4. Please tell us about your company.
I own a speaking and business coaching company where I work
with individuals and groups on personal and professional development.
5. What is your most memorable experience as an entrepreneur?
My most memorable experience is when I hit rock bottom and
had to make the decision to quit or pick my head up and move forward. It was the time I was most vulnerable and at
a loss sitting at my dining room table with a note pad and pen. After having my pity-party and melt down I
asked the Lord to help me put things back together. At that moment I found strength, energy and
creativity that propelled me forward to where I am today. I have since published my book, Uniquely
Called where I share the details of the story and process that got me back
on my feet and moving in the right direction.
6. Are you using any online marketing strategies for your company? How are you using different social media channels to market your company?
Yes, I have created a comprehensive marketing strategy for
my company and for my clients. I utilize
a system to disseminate a custom message over multiple platforms.
Plus, social media and technology changes so quickly I am
constantly learning about new techniques and building the community of experts
around me.
7. What’s your greatest fear as an entrepreneur?
My greatest fear is not taking more risks. Fear is inevitable but not jumping out in
faith will cause you to stifle growth.
8. Looking back, what’s one thing you wish you understood about entrepreneurship before you ever got started?
Looking back, I would say the greatest thing that I could
have done would be to be more intentional about building my mentor and coaching
circles first.
9. Would you like to share any success secrets that helped you in your journey?
Be a life-long learner, it was easy for me to mistake the
passion that I have for knowledge.
Be coachable, now I can say that I would rather invest in a
coach first before charging forward.
Excel at communication, I knew how to speak; however, when I
became a student of communication it helped in every area.
10. What do you enjoy most about what you do?
I would say that I get the most enjoyment when I help others
get that ah-ha moment they have been longing for.
11. What keeps you going when things get tough?
My faith, number one keeps me in the game. I know that my life-purpose and that keeps me
motivated.
Catch the Live interview with Brian HERE at 8PM CST 24th October 2019
Brian C. Dobbs
encourages “cultural shift” in new personal development book – Uniquely
Called
Dynamic
speaker, minister and business coach releases his latest book, where he aims to
help readers trigger life-changing emotions and actions
Brian C. Dobbs is known for his unique
combination of faith, personal progression, and professional development to
create tremendous growth toward powerful, substantial results. In a similar
vein and in line with his goals of helping as many people as possible to discover
their calling and reach their full potential, Brian just released a new book
titled “Uniquely Called.”
The world is usually quick to
celebrate the achievements of people who have excelled on different grounds. While
some people know and appreciate the struggles of the successful ones, others
are not particularly aware of their exploits. However, while millions of people
can also achieve amazing feats by simply identifying their calling and sticking
to it, many people do not have an idea of how to forge ahead. This is where
Brian C. Dobbs seeks to inspire readers to take the right actions that will
spur them to success.
“Uniquely Called” has been described
as a “thrilling journey,” chronicling the challenges, obstacles, and
peak-and-valley moments of people that have realized their calling and made the
best of their time on earth. The book offers a captivating insight into the
lives of different characters and how they were able to go against all odds to
achieve their live goals.
The author of the book, Brian C. Dobbs,
aims to touch the lives of readers while ultimately leading to a shift in culture to create a better
place for others. Over the years, he has been featured on different industry
platforms, using his wealth of experience and knowledge to motivate and inspire
countless people to greatness. Brian is looking to continue his work of
literally speaking greatness into individuals across the globe.
For more information about Uniquely Called and other work by Brian C.
Dobbs, please visit – https://briancdobbs.com/.
Brian is also available across several social media platforms, including Facebook and LinkedIn.
About Brian C.
Dobbs
Brian C. Dobbs is a dynamic speaker,
minister and business coach who is popular for speaking and coaching
professionals, corporations, churches and organizations on the importance of
reaching success through relationship building and identifying one’s personal
brand. Through public speaking and business coaching, Brian guides teams and
individuals on a journey where they first find their purpose and then determine
how to utilize it to their fullest advantage.
Media
Contact
Company: Brian C Dobbs Training
Contact: Brian Dobbs
Phone: 214.934.0559
Email: Brian@BrianCDobbs.com
City: Frisco
State: Texas
Country: USA
Website: BrianCDobbs.com
Jennifer G. Edelson is a writer, trained artist, former attorney, pizza lover, and hard-core Bollywood fan. She has a BFA in Sculpture and a J.D. in law, and has taught both creative writing and legal research and writing at several fine institutions, including the University of Minnesota. Originally a California native, she currently resides in Santa Fe, New Mexico with her husband, kids, and dog, Hubble after surviving twenty-plus years in the Minnesota tundra (but still considers Los Angeles, the Twin Cities, and Santa Fe all home). Other than writing, Jennifer loves hiking, traveling, Albert Camus, Dr. Seuss, dark chocolate, drinking copious amounts of coffee, exploring mysterious places, and meeting new people–if you’re human (or otherwise), odds are she’ll probably love you.
What fact about yourself would really surprise people?
I think because I come from a highly educated family and
have a BFA and a law degree, people are often really to surprised to find out I
didn’t have a traditional education. I dropped out of high school in tenth
grade after being kicked out of a few to many high schools and really floundered
for a few years. I was a difficult teenager. As in really, really, really difficult. I was also super sensitive. Like many teens, I felt misunderstood, and
alienated, and just really lonely in this ‘who am I really, what’s the meaning
of life’ way. Because of that, I spent way too much time looking for ‘answers’
and ignoring consequences. There’s this quote by Albert Camus that goes: “You will never be happy if you continue to search for
what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the
meaning of life.” Though I take it with a grain of salt, I’ve also taken it to
heart, so though I still spend a good amount of time thinking about meaning, I
don’t let it interfere with having a productive meaningful existence. Still, the
stuff that’s lingered really informs my writing. It’s also why I love writing
in the YA genre. Most adults don’t give kids and teens enough credit for being
the smart, savvy, sensitive, and super creative people they truly are. I
acknowledge that, and like writing stories that both resonates with them AND
respects those feelings.
How do you work through self-doubts and fear?
In the past I’ve tried everything from hard-core psychoanalysis to psychotropic and psychiatric meds. But I find overall, that time, lots of magical thinking, exercise and a bit of journaling seems to do the trick. Perspective is also really helpful.
What scares you the most?
My super personal
answer would require me to dig deep, and that would take pages to answer, so
how about I just stick with something little less philosophical . . . .
drowning, suffocating,
or being buried alive top my list.
What makes you happiest?
Spending time with
family, writing, traveling, feeling unbound and being outdoors.
Why do you write?
Other than that I love it? I wish I had some deep answer for you, but
the truth is, for me writing is mostly about escapism. I can’t live the
thousand different lives I’d love to, or travel the world, or be an astrophysicist
or spy, so I write to get away and appease my own curiosity and wanderlust. I
get lost in myself when I write, so it also satisfies all that romantic and
adventurous yearning. Though I also get A LOT out of imagining that my writing
touches other people. I love humans and am all about connecting on fundamental
levels.
Have you always enjoyed writing?
I have. I don’t remember I time when I didn’t
write. I wrote tons of poems and stories
in elementary school, and even (very bad) screenplays. During high school, I wrote music and film
reviews for my high school paper.
Throughout lower school, college, and law school I wrote poems,
commentary, policy and review articles, and short stories. I’ve always written, and I’ve always loved
writing, but until the last few years or so, I never really thought of myself
as a ‘real’ writer. ‘Real’ writers were like unicorns or UFO’s; I suspected
they existed but also knew I’d never be invited to the party. I guess you could say it took some time for
me to start taking myself as a writer seriously.
What motivates you to write?
Sheer unadulterated
love and a driving need to escape myself and reality once in a while 😉
What writing are you most proud of?
I
won first place in our city paper’s fiction contest (The Santa Fe Reporter) the
last two years in a row. I was both
embarrassed and proud of that. Mostly
because the first year I entered I’d never written a short story before. I’m long winded, so writing books have always
been more of my thing. But I really
enjoyed the challenge the contest presented and winning reinforced this idea I
have that sometimes, when in doubt, I just have to leap.
What books did you love growing up?
As a kid, I loved Dr. Seuss and Judy Blume and Lois Lowry, and anything that dealt with the paranormal. I remember really loving books like ‘Island of The Blue Dolphins’ and ‘Clan of the Cavebear.’ In my teens I read a lot of classics by authors like Steinbeck, Vonnegut, Austin, and the Brontes, but I also adored Stephen King. I’m such a reader it’s hard to pinpoint what I loved best though, because I pretty much read everything. I’m a little more selective now, and much shorter on time, so as an adult I have distinct favorites; but when I was a kid, the sky was the limit!
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell
us where you grew up and where you now live?
I
grew up in Los Angeles at a time when Los Angeles still felt really iconic. There’s no doubt that the city’s vibe
informed a lot of my earlier writing. I
had a lot of angst as a teen and L.A. definitely fed that; it’s absolutely thematic in my earlier writing
especially. I live in New Mexico now
after spending some years in the Tundra (aka Minnesota) and admit that New
Mexico 100% affects my writing. People
call New Mexico the land of enchantment, which is pretty apt. Everything about it makes me want to write
these wild, whimsical and unbridled stories.
My latest book, Between Wild and
Ruin initially came about because I fell in love
with the Glorieta Pass and the Pecos Pueblo in Northern New Mexico — which are
both magical places — after exploring the area.
I’m a place-centric person, and often fall for scenery, land, and the
feel of a location, and end up wanting to write novels about an area long
before I figure out the plot or story.
In that way, my story’s setting is often as much a character as the
people, which is definitely the case in Between
Wild and Ruin.
How did you develop your
writing?
Lots of reading. Lots of practice. I just never stop writing. Training and a passion for it really does make a difference.
What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?
The writing part is
usually the easiest part for me. I love
writing with a boundless passion so for the most part it comes easy. Publishing takes perseverance but I hate the
word ‘no’ so though the road at times has been bumpy, the fight usually
motivates me. Marketing though is a
different beast.
It takes a lot of energy and I find it
tends to suck up my creative mojo so that it’s harder to write and promote my
work at the same time. There’s a
learning curve there I’m still trying to figure out. The surprising thing about publishing that a
lot of new writers don’t get, is that it’s really hard work. Writing your book is only a 1/3 of the
equation. Publishing and promoting are
entirely different beasts
What else do you do, other
than write?
“What don’t I do? (she
giggles nervously).” I’m married to
someone who’s out of town for work a lot and have two sons, one in college and
one who’s a junior in high school, so they keep me pretty busy. I also have a whole host of hobbies and legal
editorial work to attend to. I run a
fairly large social group here in Santa Fe as well as a pretty awesome writing
group, so I plan a lot of social events and outings. And I love being outdoors, which means since
I live in New Mexico, I get out a lot to hike and explore. I’m all about adventure especially. It fuels my writing. In general, I also really enjoy cooking, history,
research, nerdy sci-fi stuff, movies and people . . . honestly, it’s virtually
impossible to bore me and I secretly sometimes wish I was just less interested
in the world. I really tire myself out
sometimes. Which is both a blessing and
curse.
What other jobs have you
had in your life?
My undergraduate major
was a BFA in sculpture so I’m a trained artist.
Unfortunately, like a lot of artists, the paying gig part wasn’t that
great, so I went on to law school afterwards.
I clerked for a judge for a few years out of law school and then practiced
law for a few years after that, but still worked with glass and metal art on
the side. And I taught legal research
and writing at the University of Minnesota Law school. After I left my law practice altogether, I
went back to art, predominately working with glass. For a time I showed my art at shows and
select galleries. I also had a side
business making and selling gourmet organic candy. I still do a bit of legal editing and intend
to go back to my glass work, but these days I mostly just write fulltime.
If you could study any subject at university what would you pick?
That’s a really hard
question to answer because I love learning and find almost everything
interesting. My dream studies, I guess,
would include astrophysics, marine biology, museum curator, intelligence work,
forensics, and archeology. But if I had
to make a list, I could easily think of another twenty things I wouldn’t mind
studying.
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
Santa
Monica, Rome, Auckland, Tokyo, in any quiet tropical costal area, or here in
Santa Fe.
How do you write – lap top,
pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
I’m pretty boring. I write when I want to (and I always want to) and
lack any particular routines. Unlike a
lot of authors, I don’t outline, or have special rituals, or writing spaces. I don’t feel married to any one method, space,
or time, and write anywhere from 10 am to 3 am depending on my energy levels
and mood. I write on my laptop pretty much anywhere there’s room
for me to open it. I’m as likely to
write sitting in my car in a parking lot while I’m waiting for my kid, as I am
to write at my bike-desk at home, or at a coffee shop, or in bed at three in
the morning. Likewise, I can write almost anywhere as long as it’s
not too noisy.
How much sleep do you need to be your best?
About 8 hours. If I don’t set an alarm, no matter when I go to bed, I usually wake up about 8 hours later.
Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in
writing is, what does success in writing look like to you?
Of all of your questions, this one might be the hardest for me to answer. I’m not sure anymore. I started writing just to do it; because I love it. For the longest time I thought that was enough. But after writing for so long I started to wonder what being a ‘real writer’ meant and whether I was one if I didn’t publish. Once I got the ‘I can actually write’ part down, success started feeling more like it should also equal some kind of recognition. But now that I’ve published and won awards, and still feel like a poser wrier at times, I think I’m reevaluating what success means once again. It’s complicated. And you’re right, I think it’s also very individual. I can only speak for myself, but since I haven’t figured it out yet, I want to say check back in a few years.
Tell us about your new book? Why did you write it?
On its face at least, Between
Wild and Ruin is a bit of a Beauty and the Beast
story. I initially came up with characters that played with that idea, but
really, they came up with themselves. I
do not outline my book characters first or give them backstories before writing
or map out my plot like some authors do.
I kind of just write and see what comes of it. In that way, my writing process is more
organic, allowing my characters and the story to figure out who and what they
are for themselves.
Between Wild and Ruin’s actual plot
though, the short answer is that it initially evolved over a sleepless night.
I’m an insomniac, and like a lot of writers, tell myself stories about things
that interest me in order to turn off my mind and fall asleep. I hate to being
boring, but plot-wise, this was one of them. The longer answer is a little more
mystical and would probably take a couple of blog posts to explain.
Over all though, Between Wild and Ruin is a paranormal romance seeped in local
folklore. Set against a Northern New Mexico backdrop, the
story is really a young adult coming of age epic that captures the wild and
whimsical pulse of New Mexico through the eyes of teens Ruby Brooks, Angel
Ruiz, and Ezra Lucero. The first book in the Wild and Ruin series, Between
Wild and Ruin explores the time-tested credo ‘never judge a book by its
cover’ through a paranormal lens, weaving Puebloan and Hispanic folklore and
Southwest cultural narratives into tightly written, high-concept fiction
‘brimming with mystery, intrigue,’ and as Kirkus Reviews puts it, an
“intriguing historical drama and an over-the top quadrangle romance.”
Here’s
copy from the back of the book to sum it up:
Truth, like love, isn’t always obvious.
Seventeen-year-old Ruby Brooks
has never had a boyfriend. After moving to small-town La Luna, New Mexico
following her mother’s untimely death, boys aren’t even on her radar. Ruby just
wants to forget the last horrible year and blend in. But when she discovers an
ancient pueblo ruin in the forest behind her house, and meets Ezra, a bitter
recluse whose once-perfect face was destroyed in an accident he won’t talk
about; Angel, La Luna’s handsome sheriff’s deputy, and Leo, a stranger who only
appears near the ruin, Ruby finds herself teetering between love, mystery, and
other worlds. What happened to Ezra’s face? And why is she so attracted to the
one boy in town everyone despises? As Ruby unravels her own connections to both
Ezra and the pueblo ruin, she’ll learn surfaces are deceiving. Especially in
the heart of New Mexico, where spirits and legends aren’t always just campfire
stories.
If you could have a dinner party and invite anyone dead or alive,
who would you ask?
I
would invite Albert Camus, Dr. Seuss, and Amelia Earhart. That would be the best most fascinating
dinner party ever, but I’d also worry myself into a tailspin. I’d be so tongue-tied with awe, I imagine I’d
be tripping over myself just to say something witty and intelligible.
When you are not writing, how do you like to relax?
What is this word
‘relax?’
Who are your
writing influences?
My
writing influences vary. I read A LOT, especially in the genre I most often
write in, which is Young Adult fiction. But I’ve been in love with Albert
Camus since college. His work inspires me; his writing, both his prose and
the subjects he writes about, challenge me to examine meaning, to dig
deeper when I write and when I interact with people. Vladimir Nabokov,
Brett Easton Ellis, Heidi Julavits, Phillip Roth, and Chuck Palahniuk are also
big writing influences, for many diverse, weird, and divergent reasons. Deeply
flawed characters that still manage to capture and hold a reader’s interest,
and stories that challenge notions of identity particularly interest me.
What do you hope people will take away from your writing? How will
your words make them feel?
I’m not sure I’m trying to communicate a message
as much as a feeling. That exciting,
sometimes breathless moment that comes from experiencing ‘firsts’ and facing
the unknown. Of connecting over
unexpected emotions, and backgrounds, and alliances, not to mention the
rollercoaster that comes with being in love. A few reviewers mentioned how
sensory and atmospheric Between Wild and
Ruin’s writing is, that they could see, smell, and hear everything as they
read, and that because of it, were right there in the Glorieta pass with Ruby
throughout the story. I agree and hope readers find themselves immersed in a
story that wholly transports them both emotionally and intellectually to the
heart of La Luna, New Mexico and into Ruby’s unique world. But if people just
walked away feeling like they’d spent a few fun hours reading something
enjoyable — if all the book is for people is super effective escapism — I’d
still be really happy.
Elyse Douglas is the pen name for the married writing team Elyse Parmentier and Douglas Pennington. Elyse grew up near the sea, roaming the beaches, reading and writing stories and poetry, receiving a master’s degree in English Literature. She has enjoyed careers as an English teacher, an actress, and a speech-language pathologist. She and her husband, Douglas Pennington, have completed numerous novels including The Other Side of Summer, Christmas for Juliet, The Christmas Eve Letter, Christmas Ever After, The Christmas Town and The Christmas Diary.
Douglas grew up in a family where music and astrology were second and third languages. He has worked as a graphic designer, a corporate manager and equities trader. He attended the Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music and played the piano professionally for many years.
Elyse and Douglas live in New York City.
Describe yourself in five words: A couple who write novels.
What fact about yourself would really surprise people? Doug is a vegetarian and I am not. Dinnertime is interesting in our house. We usually eat the same starch and vegetables, but Doug cooks a soy product or veggie burger and I eat chicken or fish.
How do you work through self-doubts and fear? We support and encourage each other. We meditate, acknowledge the self-doubts and fear and then replace those thoughts with more positive ones.
What scares you the most? For me it’s not being able to eat three times a day. For Doug, it’s not having decent music available.
What makes you happiest? When we remember to live in the moment and appreciate what is around us.
Why do you write?Because we have to. It’s as simple as that.
Have you always enjoyed writing? Yes and no. It’s hard work, but it feels wonderful when you express well what you want to say, and when others like the work.
What motivates you to write? The prospect of the end product… and having other people read our stories.
What writing are you most proud of? Doug really loves “Wanting Rita.” I especially love “Time Change.”
What are you most proud of in your personal life? That we’ve sustained a good relationship for more than 30 years.
What books did you love growing up? I loved “Little Women.” Doug loved “Lad, a Dog” and “By Wagon Train to Oregon.”
What do you hope your obituary will say about you? That we lived ethical, loving and creative lives.
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live? We live in New York City, where we met. I originally came from Massachusetts and Doug from Ohio.
How did you develop your writing? We give each other honest and constructive criticism. Our readers often do too!
What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing? All three are difficult. At this point, we don’t start a novel unless we know how we will market it. And since we’ve gone the self-publishing route for many reasons, getting published is difficult only insofar as we have to do the mechanics of that process ourselves, working with designers, programmers, etc. Writing remains refreshingly challenging!
What marketing works for you? We have a mailing list. Also, BookBub Featured Deals, Facebook ads and Amazon ads are helpful.
Do you find it hard to share your work? Not at all.
Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you? Some do, some don’t. We have friends and family members who have read every book, some who have read one, some who have read none. People have their own taste and expectations for novels, so we don’t pressure anyone to read our books.
What else do you do, other than write? We do some consulting work in other professions, but our main activity is writing and producing the books. Doug walks and hangs out in cafes. I swim and take Tai Chi and Pilates classes.
What other jobs have you had in your life? Doug has been a musician and corporate manager. I’ve been an actress, English teacher and speech-language pathologist.
If you could study any subject at university what would you pick? Since I’ve spent my life reading, I would probably explore the opposite: sciences like geology or entomology. Doug loves history.
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?Right here, in NYC, with vacations in Montauk, NY and Maine.
Tell us about your family? We have nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews and the siblings who produced those.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk? Doug usually writes at his desktop computer. I often start with pen and paper, often outdoors or on a couch, then move to my desktop.
How much sleep do you need to be your best?Seven to eight hours a night.
Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge and thank for their support? Doug’s father was a huge supporter of our writing. The most avid reader of our books on my side of the family is my sister.
Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you? At this point, we measure success in sales and positive ratings. We want readers to enjoy our books and spread the word about them. Luckily, they have!
Tell us about your new book? Why did you write it? Our readers expressed an interest in a sequel to Book 2, The Christmas Eve Daughter. They wanted to series to continue. This novel is another adventure for Eve and Patrick Gantly (characters we introduced in Book 1,The Christmas Eve Secret). The themes are redemption, self-discovery, and love at first sight that grows and endures.
If you could have a dinner party and invite anyone dead or alive, who would you ask? We’d probably go for Shakespeare and Gandhi at the heads of the table, and then George Elliot, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Clara Schumann on one side. On the other side? John Steinbeck, Charles Dickens and Mary Shelley.
When you are not writing, how do you like to relax? We read. If our eyes are tired, we listen to recorded books. We also love to take walks and travel.
What do you hope people will
take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel? We
hope our readers have enjoyed the journey we’ve taken them on and end up feeling
positive about themselves and the world.
What do you write about? Our books are basically about love and the
power of love. But it sometimes takes
our characters a little time to have their hearts opened.
Do you have a specific writing style? We aim for a good, clean narrative style and
dialogue that advances the plot and reveals character.
What are obstacles that come in the way of
writing? Nothing gets in the way. We are quite disciplined. It is a job, and we write six or seven days a
week.
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by
a reader about your work? “This is a story of life; heartbreak, grief and finally peace
and love. A story to remind us to be
good to ourselves and those around us, and that in life when doors close, windows
open.” A reader’s review about Christmas
Ever After.
How long have you been writing? I’ve written in a journal since I was eight years old and wrote my first novel in my thirties. Doug started writing novels in his twenties.
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer? It’s been my goal since I read about Jo in “Little Women.” For Doug, it was a result of listening to his grandfather, a gifted storyteller from Kentucky.
What is your work schedule like when you are writing? We both work about five hours a day.
What would you say is your interesting
writing quirk? Doug loves to have the cover designed before
he begins to write a novel. The cover
might be changed, but having it visible keeps him focused on the plot he’s
already worked out in his head. I’m more
exploratory and indirect in my approach.
I write scenes and then gradually understand where I’m going.
How long does it take to write a book? At this point, it takes three to
six months to write it and then at least another two for the rewrites, copyedits,
and proofing.
Do you have suggestions on how to become a
better writer? Write nearly every day. Read every day. Analyze the writing of writers you
admire. If you feel like your plot
weighs 500 pounds and you’re struggling to keep it up, scrap it and try a
different approach.
What challenges do you come across when
writing/creating your story?
The greatest challenges are to create likeable characters and then keep
the plot moving. Subplots can also help to
enhance the tension and keep the mystery alive.
What do you think makes a good story? The best story is one that keeps the reader
interested. The characters must be likeable
and real, even if their situations are fantastical (like time traveling to 1884
by way of the light from an old lantern).
Also important is to have a good antagonist. They help drive the story.
Do you have anything specific you’d like to
tell the readers? Thank you for being readers, and thank you for
reading our books!
When did
you first consider yourself a writer?
We’ve always thought of ourselves as writers, but when your books start
to sell and you’re making a steady income from them, then it’s easier to say it
out loud with confidence.
Fazilla Shujaat is a Children’s Book Author. She has had three children’s books published alreday which are available to buy on Amazon as an Digital Ebook and Paper back. Fazilla Shujaat is very creative and her books are full of adventure and magic. She has been in the writing field for over fifteen years and also have experince in other areas of media. She is full of passion and creativity. Watch this Space.
Where are you from? United Kingdom
Why do you write? Writing is my passion and hobby
What do you write about? I write Children’s Books
Do you have a specific writing style? Yes, I like to add a little spark to all of my writing
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? Writers Block
Whats the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work? Where do I get such amazing different ideas from
How long have you been writing? 15 years
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer? When i was 12
What is your work schedule like when you are writing? It has to be quite and peaceful. I usually write at night time
How long does it take to write a book? Usually it takes me 2-3 weeks to complete a manuscript
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer? Keep going back to your work after a few days as you will make changes each time
What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story? When you can visualise the story but are finding it hard to put it into words
What do you think makes a good story? The story has to be engaging from the first paragraph to keep the reader interested
What does your family think of your writing? My family support me
Do you see writing as a career? Yes
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers? Keep motivated and never give up on your dreams
When did you first consider yourself a writer? When my first book was published. My new book is called Milly Boo the Good Luck Cat.
The story is called Milly Boo, and it’s based on a black cat who’s beautiful and caring by nature; however, due to widespread superstition, she isn’t treated very nicely by the people around her. Milly Boo is a highly creative tale with an inspiring, positive ending. The aim of the story is to change the negative thinking we have about black cats, as well as encourage readers to treat all cats the same, regardless of their colour. Complete at 500 words, Milly Boo is perfect for 6-8-year-olds, who haven’t yet learned to discriminate or hold biases.
Oh boy a biography! While I’m terrible at talking about myself, I’ll do my best to seem interesting. I’ve been writing since I was a kid, even if that writing was super cringe worthy, but it gave me a love to tell stories. I just enjoy writing stories that are entertaining; whether that be in fantasy, scifi, or horror. Even romance if the spirit moves me. Pretty much whatever I love to read, I love to write. I live with my cat and my husband, who’s known to give me good ideas from time to time. I suppose that’s it.
Describe yourself in five
words
I’m funny, reliable, a good friend, and chill.
What fact about yourself
would really surprise people?
I’m not completely sure. I’m a pretty open book, but I
think people are mostly surprised to learn I have ptsd.
How do you work through self-doubts and fear?
Therapy has been a huge help. It’s given me the tools I need to ignore, and deal, with that little voice that tells me to just give up.
What scares you the most?
Not completing my goals. I don’t mind failure, because
that means I at least tried. A better way of putting it, is I’m afraid of not
trying.
What makes you happiest?
My art, my cat, and my family and friends.
Why do you write?
To tell stories that I’ve
wanted to see, but never did growing up, and to entertain people.
Have you always enjoyed writing?
I have! I’ve
been writing since I was a kid, but usually those stories never get finished.
What
motivates you to write?
I do if we’re being honest. Which is both a great and
terrible thing, because sometimes I like to give myself too long of a break.
What writing are you most proud of?.
The book I just published! It’s the first time I went through the whole spectrum of creating the story, writing the book, and editing then publishing.
What are you most proud of in your personal life?
A lot of things. I’m happy
I’m getting a hold on my mental health, which means I’m able to do more
creative endeavors.
What books did you love growing up?
How long do you have? Haha. I loved Interview with a
Vampire, Someone Comes to Town Someone Leaves Town, and most anything by
Stephen King. Twilight was in there somewhere as well, but we don’t talk about
that.
What do you hope your obituary will say about you?
That I was fun.
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live?
I grew up, and still live, in Montana. Though, I tend to travel a lot. While I write fantasy, Montana is usually full of westerns. Most of my inspiration comes from Sedona, Az if we’re being honest.
How did you develop your writing?
Listening to author advice on youtube and lots of practice.
What is hardest – getting
published, writing or marketing?
Marketing and editing! The writing part is easy, but getting a book to be up to par is difficult, and getting the name out there is even harder. Both of those are quite a bit of work, but worth ever moment.
Do you find it hard to share your work?
Not at all!
Whether the response is good or bad, I’m just happy when I complete
something.
Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?
Oh yes! Overly so sometimes, but that’s a good thing. My brother, especially. His constant pestering gave me a good push to finish this novel.
What else do you do, other than write?
I do various styles of art ranging from horror to
calming fluid paintings. I just like to try new things.
What other jobs have you had in your life?
Lots! I’ve worked as a post office delivery person, in retail, in management, running my own business, in the vending business, cleaning, and in food service.
If you could study any subject at university what would you pick?
I adore psychology and learning how the mind and body works.
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
Either in Spokane, Wa or
in Arizona. Neither has snow and that’s all the selling point I need.
Tell us about your family?
There’s my mom and dad and two brother’s. Who are both much older than I am. We’re a pretty close knit family, and see each other often. They’re very supportive in anything I want to do, and are just incredible people. Then, there’s my grandma and aunt who are the same way. I have my husband and his family as well whom I love dearly.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
I write on a laptop on my work desk. Sometimes on my
bed if I get sick. Which is how I wrote this book.
How much sleep do you need to be your best?
At least eight hours. Anything less than that, and I’m useless.
Is there anyone you’d like
to acknowledge and thank for their support?
Everyone in my life.
Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you?
Finishing a book and getting it out there! That’s half the
battle right there.
It is vital to get exposure and target the right readers for your writing, tell us about your marketing campaign?
I’ve been promoting the book in facebook groups, by
word or mouth, and am working on getting some signings set up.
Tell us about your new book? Why did you write it?
It’s kind of a funny story. My husband came up with a dungeons and dragons campaign that we never got to play. I loved the concept so much, that I didn’t want it to go to waste. While on a business trip the bare bones of the story started to play out in my head. Then, I got the flu that turned into bronchitis. I was stuck in bed for a month with nothing else to do, but write. So, I did.
When you are not writing, how do you like to relax?
I enjoy throwing dinner parties, playing board games,
or hanging out with friends. Either that, or I enjoy painting and video games.
What do you hope people
will take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel?
I just want
people to be entertained and feel represented.
Do you have links that you’d like to share for others to read?
Professor Margaret Torrens retired to a mountain cabin only to find her solitude disturbed first by a former student with an odd, mute girl in tow, and soon after by a man who laid claim to both woman and child.
Now Margaret is locked in a ward for the criminally insane, and a charge of murder is in the air. As a psychologist pries out her story, she is waylaid by her own secrets, borne by the ghost of her young husband, lost decades before. Things Too Big to Name traces the power of memory to heal and enable connection after long isolation.
Review:
A psychological thriller that I would personally want to be made into a movie! It reminds me of watching thriller movies that keeps you guessing until the end, keeps you hooked to the story from the beginning but also annoys you with the slow pace in between.
The story is being narrated by Margaret, who is a retired teacher. The story starts with Margaret’s car hitting a deer while driving to her remote cabin. At the spot the incident took place, she felt like she saw the spirit of her dead husband.
The story unfolds as she seeks a psychologist to uncover the truth, while getting confused further with the visit of her former student.
This story can get quite confusing as the narrator of the entire story is Margaret. Because of this very same reason, the character development of the other characters apart from Margaret is somehow not very extensive. Therefore, we only learn about the characters as much as Margaret would like us to know about them. However. this element is necessary to keep the suspense in the story going. One has to have a good focus when reading to pick up the interesting twists in the story.
A 4 star for this book!
About the Author:
Molly Tinsley
In an episode of sanity, award winning author, Molly Tinsley resigned from the English faculty at the US Naval Academy and moved west to write full-time. .
She is the author of MY LIFE WITH DARWIN (Houghton Mifflin) and THROWING KNIVES (Ohio State University Press), she also co-authored SATAN’S CHAMBER (Fuze Publishing) and the textbook, THE CREATIVE PROCESS (St. Martin’s). Her more recent books are the memoir ENTERING THE BLUE STONE and another Victoria Pierce spy thriller, sequel to SATAN’S CHAMBER: BROKEN ANGELS.
Her fiction has earned two fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Sandstone Prize, and the Oregon Book Award. Her fiction has been widely published and her plays have been read and produced nationwide. She lives in Ashland, Oregon.