Author: Jasveena R Prabhagaran

November 14, 2018

An Interview with David Lee Ross

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David Lee Ross

Clayton’s Mackintosh by David Lee Ross

Describe yourself in five words

Handsome intelligent and lovable

What fact about yourself would really surprise people?

Well I have in the past protected hi profile personnel including David Beckham, David Ginola, Kylie Minogue and some members of the Royal family although this was a great working  environment to be in it was quite dangerous at times….

What makes you happiest? 

Seeing my family do well as my children who I love dearly and to see my grandchildren do well

Have you always enjoyed writing?

Well the reason I write, this has always been an ambition of mine as I used to tell my brothers and sisters fantasy stories when I was young child and then told my children and nephew and nieces stories as every loving parent does and now at this stage of my life.

I can now publish my own stories now such Clayton’s Mackintosh, and the Twin Princess which now available on Amazon, and Barnes and noble due to progress of technology

What writing are you most proud of? 

Well although I write children’s books, I have been obsessed with the horror genre since I was a kid and I have written a horror novel under another name as a black man that is my proudest achievement to date …..

What books did you love growing up?

Well well I was young used to read children’s adventure books such as the famous five by Enid Blyton and war and action comics obviously being a boy but also I used to read the Britannia Encyclopaedia yeah I now I had a bit if a nerd stage.

What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?

As I have already mentioned the change of technology for budding authors’ such as myself as in the internet, getting published was the hardest, I obviously went through a plethora of throw downs from the main publishers given you the inadequate and adequate reasons why they cannot publish you writing comes easy to me and now the internet is worth its weight in gold for marketing.

Do you find it hard to share your work?

I am sorry I am  very protective over my work until it is completed, I am terrified of the chance of someone stealing it before me,espacally whe I was actively pitching my work to various publishers  because of the time and effort I have donated to it, but I suppose that is just me, and I eventually have to share it with the world anyway.

Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?

Well wouldn’t say my family is running to breakdown the doors of the bookstores to get my books, but I get more support and interest from friends regarding my writing but I suppose as much as I would love to be the centre of attention of my family in their lives I am sure they have their own priority’s in life.

What else do you do, other than write?

Well I am a normal person in that sense when I am not writing at every waking moment I have, I just socialise with family and friends, a keen sports watcher weather it be on screen or live of American football, soccer, international rugby and the like but my treat is wining and dining whether it be alone or with family and friends

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

Well once again I have already done that and guess what that was, yes writing and publishing (actually it was writing and publishing and American studies Joint Honours believe it or not at Middlesex University in London) although I did not complete it due to my family commitments it was refreshing and set me up with the knowledge I acquired to be published.

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

Wow that is a question, well if I won the lottery or became a bestselling author worldwide, I would either have to live on an island or buy an island in Central America or by the Solomon Islands as I have always lived around and in big city’s all my life so that would be the life for me to get ultimate serenity for my writing.

How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?

I write with my lap top and absolutely take it everywhere with me, I don’t jot anything on paper for ideas, or anything like  that, I don’t write in bed , I always have my lap top with me just in case I have an idea or to prepare a story.

How much sleep do you need to be your best?

Well I am a bit if an insomniac so I don’t have to have much sleep in order to operate so I am lucky in that sense it is very rarely that you will see me complaining when I have been up till the early hours of the morning writing Clayton’s Mackintosh….

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

Well obviously every writer wants to be the number one best seller, I think I would settle for that as well, as that is the height of achievement and for in this genre and seeing that kind of success  would be great to be recognised myself a black man writing in this genre….

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

Well my book is called Clayton’s Mackintosh this story is about a little boy that has been given at first a Mackintosh coat that does absolutely nothing and is a very old type of coat but as the story goes on Clayton now the owner of it realises that his coat can talk, walk and do magic, who helps home to a challenge from some mischievous demons and his mackintosh calls in some legends of soccer and basketball assist them to overcome these sporting duels.

It is a hearty family fun book of fantasy and sporting mayhem and some comedy ….

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

Well that is easy I would invite Nelson Mandela, Malcolm X and Vanessa Williams, sorry I am a red blooded male, although I think myself Nelson and Malcolm would be fighting over her, I would have to calm this by reiterating to them that Malcolm X and Nelson Mandela are only invited to dinner for conversation and Vanessa Williams is my dessert and no one else’s……

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

Wow, my last and final question, well most of all I would like the readers who buy my novel to have read it and to their children, to read just for a nice comforting story where they can just escape in their minds for a couple of minutes.

Check out David’s book on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Claytons-Mackintosh-David-Lee-Ross/dp/1326850687

November 10, 2018

An Interview with Lyndell Williams (Layla Abdullah-Poulos)

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Lyndell Williams (Layla Abdullah-Poulos)

1-My Way to You Cover Photo

My Way To You

Have you always enjoyed writing?

Absolutely not. When I was younger, I was plagued with terrible handwriting and teachers who constantly criticized me for it. I hated writing because of it and limited myself and either spoke my ideas or remained silent. It wasn’t until I attended a trade school for word processing and then studied literature in college.

What motivates you to write?

I write for a variety of reasons, but my primary ones are that I want to tell the world about the experiences of people often overlooked and convey stories filled with social commentary. I want to express humanity in an often an inhumane world.

What writing are you most proud of? 

Any of my work that positively affects people gives me pride. I’ve had people tell me they’ve felt empowered or learned something I wrote in a small article as well as more significant works. I’m fortunate that a lot of my work has that effect and hope to continue to create writing that does

What do you hope your obituary will say about you?

I don’t want an obituary or eulogy.

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

I grew up in abject poverty surrounded by pain and sexual predators. My life changed when I married. My life is a whole lot more stable now. I do draw from my experiences when I write, which is probably why quite a bit of my stories contain domestic violence and sexual abuse in the plots. Its real and a lot of people (especially women) suffer, so I want to keep giving it a voice.

How did you develop your writing?

My writing is a result of a lot of whining, moaning and temper tantrums. I do credit my skills to the phenomenal instructors I had in college who always challenged me to do better as well as an incredible writing coach who demanded it.

It’s been my experience that people who can take criticism and use it as a tool for improvement become some of the best writers. It’s really the only way to progress in the craft.

What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?

I’m a staunch proponent for indie publishing. Historically, publishing has been an industry of gatekeeping and squelching authors’ voices, favoring a few over others based on arbitrary parameters that restrict creativity and opportunities for readers to enjoy some good authors. So, I always encourage authors to strongly consider doing the publishing themselves, the hardest part of which is by far the editing.

Editing is a torturous waiting game and a costly one. You pay three people (content editor, copy editor and proofreader) the chunk of your publishing budget to tear your stuff apart. You agonize over who to trust with your project, and then there is going through them when you get the manuscript back. It is incredibly arduous and capricious. Even publishers don’t get this part of the process right all of the time. I’ve had quite a few authors crying to me over the phone because of issues with their publisher’s selected editor. Editing is entirely the hardest part. Writing the book is a stroll in the park compared to the editing gauntlet.

What else do you do, other than write?

I teach U.S. history and homeschool my children. My work as an educator—both at the college and home—is gratifying. Shifting between collegiate and primary learning can be challenging, but the influence I have as an educator makes it worth it.  

How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?

I have a tiny, cluttered corner in my bedroom equipped with a laptop and an additional monitor. The array of writing I have to create in a day (novels, journal articles, blog posts, discussion boards, lesson plans, etc.) requires a lot of back and forth between programs.

I doubt I would write even half of what I do if I had to use a pen and paper.  I know plenty of writers who prefer to write by hand first, but I head straight for the keyboard.

How much sleep do you need to be your best?

Sleep? What’s that? My circadian rhythm has been off for decades. Rest is good, but the realities of my life as a writer, instructor, wife, and mother makes it continually elusive.

Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge and thank for their support?

My husband. He works very hard so I can do the things I love.

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

For me, successful writing is when I get to write what I want and it positively-affects people. A lot of my work addresses issues that make people some people feel uncomfortable, but I do it because it’s important to use my skills to try and affect productive change. Even in my stories, I try to entertain and inform. If I get to do that and influence readers, I’m a successful writer.

A covered Muslim woman would be the last person readers would expect to write a romance. What made you want to write in the genre?

Romance is a driving force of society. Love influences so much of who we are as individuals and societies. Romance novels are more than entertainment. They demonstrate how we navigate through essential human emotions and the ethics we create to do it.

I write romance because it is at the core of the human experience.

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

My Way to You is an interracial romance featuring an Asian American man and African American woman. The couple has to struggle through intolerance and bigotry to be together. I wrote it to highlight some of the challenges of interracial relationships.

People often think the existence of interracial couples is an example that our society is doing away with racism, which is a huge misconception. There is a lot to tackle in addition to the usual problems that come with being in love.

How did you determine the racial makeup of the love interests?

Well, I made the conscious decision that all my female protagonists will be brown African American women. There just aren’t enough books out there with Black women love interests. It’s growing, but I wanted to be part of centering dynamic African American womanhood.

I chose to make the male protagonist Asian American because of the expanding BWAM (Black women-Asian men) movement in the United States. I wanted to readers to have a chance to explore how love and race between members of two minority groups may be influenced by it inside and outside of the relationship.

What are some of your favorite romance tropes to read? Any guilty pleasures?

I mostly enjoy friends to lovers and second chance at love stories. There is just something hopeful in the idea that the heart can heal and love again. I’m also a sucker for a wolf shifter romance. There is something so alluring about alpha male protagonists I can rarely resist.

I hate to admit it, but I can get with well-written enemies to lovers story. I tend not to like them because authors tend to drag the “enemies” part out a little too long. If a book has a right balance in the trope, I get all squishy inside at the moment that the couple admits they are drawn to each other.

When you are not writing, how do you like to relax?

I am an unrepentant binge watcher. Some of my best downtimes are when I get to stream a series or watch a bunch of movies from a particular genre. I might decide that I’m in the mood for a horror marathon. Then my screen will be filled with slashing and gore while blood-curdling screams permeate the room.

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

It would be great if readers have a blast reading my stories and have something to think about after reading them. I want my words to be catalysts for conversations and change.

Links:

MY WAY TO YOU will be released 12/1/18 and is available for pre-order on Kindle. Link here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07K3PZXHY

Layla Writes Love Blog – https://laylawriteslove.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/laylawriteslove/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/laylawriteslove

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/laylawriteslove/

Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/laylawriteslove

Amazon – http://amazon.com/author/laylawriteslove

 

October 23, 2018

Book Review: Deadly Ground by Thomas W. Starbuck

Deadly Ground by Thomas W. Starbuck

Deadly Ground by Thomas W. Starbuck and Judy Belshe-Toernblom

Publisher:  Christian Faith Publishing, Inc. (April 4, 2018)
Category: Fantasy,  Romance, Science Fiction Lite, Post Apocalyptic
Tour dates: October-November, 2018
ISBN: 978-1641401678
Available in Print and ebook, 157 pages

Link to Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Deadly-Ground-Thomas-W-Starbuck/dp/1641911611

“Deadly Ground” – a riveting story about the human race under threat, with a rare DNA condition providing a second chance for humanity. A fast-paced novel that reads like an apocalypse movie with a biological viral disease, some romance, and aliens in the mix, centered on the unforgettable human main character AB, who becomes the hope for humanity’s regeneration.

By author Thomas W. Starbuck, whose storyline for “Deadly Ground” was adapted and written by Judy Belshe-Toernblom.

Review:

This book is basically about the end of the world, written from the authors’ perspective. The story is interesting as I find AB to be a character that makes you want to read the book further. With a little bit of sci-fi, fantasy, post apocalyptic, and romance, it all boils down to whether your genes could save you or not. If you like stories with aliens in it, you’ll love to read this book. A fast read and definitely a page turner. I would give it a 4 star.

July 8, 2018

An Interview with Charles Umerie

 

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Charles Umerie

  1. We are happy to have you on our blog. Tell us about yourself.

My name is Charles Umerie, and I’m 27 years old. I’m a writer, and so far I’ve written a book, movie scripts, essays, and articles.

  1. I read your book, Kingdom Tales, and I must say it’s a good read. Can you tell us more about it?

Kingdom Tales is my first book and it’s an allegory to the events that took place in Africa towards the 1960s. That was a time many African countries got their independence, and after that came a lot of civil wars. So Kingdom Tales was based on those events, and at the same time, I made sure it’s entertaining so people can read it and enjoy it. Even those that doesn’t know anything about these places can still read it and enjoy it as a simple fairytale.

  1. What inspired you to write it?

As an African writer, I feel like there’s nothing more important and inspiring than writing about the growth of Africa. That’s the inspiration behind it.

  1. This question is definitely for young writers out there. I know a lot of them complain of not being able to complete their book. So can you tell us how you wrote your book, what methods did you use?

I honestly do not have any secret formula for writing a book. People are different, and they have different ways of writing. But what you can do is whenever you start, make sure you finish it. No matter how unprofessional your work might seem at first, you just have to finish it. That would be your foundation, then you go through it over and over again, rewriting, adding and removing certain things.

  1. Do you have unpublished work? Or a book you are still working on?

I have another book coming out this year. It focuses on the Mali Empire in the 14th century. I also want to use this book to let people know more about the Mali Empire and its surrounding at that time. Most schools don’t teach that anymore, so I will inform and entertain at the same time with this book.

  1. How would sum up the reading culture in Africa now?

I can only speak for Nigeria, and in my own opinion, I think the reading culture in Nigeria is quite low. People would rather watch or hear it, than read it. The low literacy level and few number of libraries in Nigeria also play a part in that.

  1. It was definitely nice having you. To surprise our readers, tell us one weird fact about you. Something about you that is almost unbelievable to anyone that knows you.

I forget things very easily! A lot of people don’t know that, but I have learned to manage that. Thanks for having me.

 

Thank you so much, Charles, for participating in this blog interview.

Charles’ book can be purchased at https://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Tales-Charles-Umerie/dp/1329727010 

June 24, 2018

An Interview with Troy Gathers

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Take Me With You by Troy Gathers

#1 What inspired you on this book?

Take Me With You Volume 2 was actually inspired by my relationships with others. Over the past 10 years, I’ve really embraced the fact that we are dealing with character types more so than people. Have you ever met someone who reminds you of someone you knew your whole life, just by their actions? That’s what inspired me to write this book.

#2 Why did you want to become a writer?

I’ve always wanted to be a writer. In middle school, I would enter all the writing and drawing contest to display my interest. I won a few of them and received awards of participation for others, but the passion was always there.

#3 What was the hardest part of creating this book?

The hardest part of writing this book was actually finding the time that I could sit down and just write. Currently, my day revolves around finishing up my Ph.D and running multiple businesses. I did find the time to finish up the book but it usually came at the price of sleep.

#4 What do you hope people gain from reading it?

After reading Take Me With You Volume 2, I want the readers to leave with a sense of discernment. This book is packed with biblical scriptures, wisdom and lessons. I want people to gain a better understanding of who’s in their life. The wrong friendships could really hurt your future.

#5 When you were a kid, what were your favorite books?

Great question. When I was growing up my favorite books were the The Trumpet of the Swan, James and the Giant Peach and The Scarlet Letter. These 3 books will always be on my favorites list.

#6 What is your advice to people who are not excited about reading?

Usually those that don’t like to read a whole lot are more visual people, which is fine. What I would tell them is, just imagine a movie that only you could see and you make up the faces of the characters and you determine the imagery of the story. Reading is the only pastime that gives you that experience.

#7 Why should we buy your book?

Everyone reading this interview should buy my books because I put real life aspects in my books. I guarantee with all my books you will learn and adjust from my writings. I only deal with facts and personal experiences of others and myself. When you buy any one of my books you are buying information and not opinion.

All book projects by Troy Gathers are Available on Amazon.com

About Troy Gathers

“Not everyman can be famous, but everyman can be great!” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “When I first read those words from a memorial wall at South Carolina State University, I was touched,” Gathers said. “In life, sometimes all we can hold on to is words and a belief that they will manifest.” “Growing up, all I could do was dream.”

These words continuously push Troy Gathers towards his dream to strive for excellence. When asked about his childhood, Troy explains how it has played a major role in his future; Troy said, “The pain from my past has prepared me for the future.” “In college though, I found that I was very different. I found that welfare and section 8 were foreign to some college students.” The entrepreneur said that he began to see his purpose for his upbringing; “I have the voice to help people grow through trials.” After graduating from South Carolina State University, Gathers sought out to be a voice for the young and an inspiration to all. “As a public speaker, I have the stage to reach people far and near with my message”, he says joyfully. I’ve actually spoken to inmates on a continuous basis across the state of South Carolina in penitentiaries.” I have spoken to groups ranging from age eight to forty. Since I am one with the generation it is possible to hold their attention throughout the entire speech,” Gathers said. “Knowing that the speaker went through a similar situation less than ten years ago allows the audience to leave with a sense that there is a way to overcome their present adversities.”

By the time Troy reached seventeen years old, he had attended seven different schools and lived in six different neighborhoods. To escape the everyday troubles of society, Troy focused on success. In High School, despite the constant moving Gathers still managed to join NJROTC, the newspaper staff, and Future Business Leaders of America to name a few. Gathers stated, “Because of the constant moving, I spent a lot of time wishing for stability and praying for strength. Throughout my life I remained positive and knew that if I continued on this path I would be successful. Given my life experiences, I am able to communicate and relate to the younger generation.”

Once Gathers got settled at South Carolina State University he finally got a chance to show one body of students what he was capable of achieving. At South Carolina State University Gathers formed Intramural Sporting teams, served as the Vice President of freshman dormitory, joined the Young Democrats, SGA, wrote/directed two short films with students and made the grades for The National Deans List. Troy was also the host of the radio show B.E. Y.O.U. which aired on WSSB 90.3FM. (SCSU Radio) The show was based on positive individuals and their accomplishments. Gathers credits his focus at SCSU to his mother and mentors that assured his faith and head was always high. “Even in college people doubt you and try to bring you down, but I have special people that kept me focused on the big picture”.

After successfully completing his MBA program, Troy is currently enrolled in the Public Policy and Administration PhD program. B.E. Y.O.U. is Troy’s Educational Lecture Program for the youth that promotes success in their lives. B.E. Y.O.U is Troy’s cry to the youth to be themselves and step out of the crowd. Under his B.E. Y.O.U. imprint, Gathers has published 3 book titles. In all of Gathers endeavors he keeps God first and only expects great things for the future.

June 9, 2018

An Interview with Gabriella Goddard

 

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GABRIELLA GODDARD

Author of “Gulp!: the 7-day crash course to master fear and break through any challenge”

http://www.gulptime.com

Describe yourself in five words:

Visionary, creative, empathetic, adventurous, agile

What fact about yourself would really surprise people?

I have a fear of deep water. So a few years ago, I decided to do a diving course to try and overcome it. Luckily I was so distracted by the beautiful fish swimming past me that I forgot I was 100 yards under!

How do you work through self-doubts and fear?

Firstly, I dig deep and try to understand what the root of the fear is and where the emotion is in my body. Then I try to imagine a better and more positive outcome, and notice where that emotion is in my body. The secret then is to dial up the positive vision and feeling so that it drowns out the fear.

What scares you the most?

Being bored.

What makes you happiest?

Working on my creative projects and being around people who are doing cool stuff.

Why do you write?

Writing is an important part of my job as the coaching director at the brainsparker academy. Every day I’m writing blog posts, articles, top tips and course content. Writing for me is a great form of self-expression where you get to say exactly what you think and feel – without any interruptions. (lol)

Have you always enjoyed writing?

Actually for me, sitting down and typing words on my laptop is quite a painful process. I live for the day when the ideas in my head can be telepathically transferred to a recording device. What I do enjoy about writing is the editing process. This is where true magic can happen.

What motivates you to write?

Words are a powerful form of communication. How many times have you read something and found that it triggered a new insight that shifted your thinking? This is the power of words. And I am grateful that I have the confidence and ability to express myself in this way, and make a difference in people’s lives as a result.

What writing are you most proud of? .

I am very proud of my first published book, “Gulp! : the 7-day crash course to master fear and break through any challenge,” which was a dream come true.  I’d suffered a cancer scare and this was a real wake up call. I had always wanted to write a book, but just never got around to it. After my cancer scare, I asked myself – if not now, when?

What are you most proud of in your personal life?

I’m really proud of finally finding work/life balance.  Throughout my career I’d always been a workaholic. It wasn’t until I started developing my creativity that I realized the importance of taking time out. Most days are now a healthy balance of work, rest and social.

What books did you love growing up?

My favorite author growing up was Nancy Drew. I loved how she solved mysteries and the fact that she was a girl. If she could do it, so could I!

What do you hope your obituary will say about you?

I’d love it to say “she made life happen no matter the obstacles.”

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

I was very lucky to grow up in New Zealand which is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. And like most Kiwis, I travelled around the world and lived in worked in countries like Japan, France, UK, Mexico and USA which was an amazing experience.  These days I’m based between the South of Spain and London, UK and get the best of both worlds – beach and city buzz.

 What else do you do, other than write?

I run a company called “brainsparker” which helps people boost their ability to think creatively and come up with better ideas. Our free brainsparker app uses random prompt cards to spark new ideas and is very popular with writers. And our brainsparker academy offers a range of online training and coaching programs to help people develop their creativity and innovation skills.

What other jobs have you had in your life?

For the past 15 years I’ve been working as an Executive Coach and Leadership Development Facilitator in the corporate market which has been incredibly rewarding. And before that I worked in international marketing and branding in the telecom and technology industry which was very exciting.

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

For me, success in writing is about getting words on paper. Once they’re there, you can do so many things with them. But you have to get them down first. Plus, as soon as they’re out there in black and white, you leave space in your brain for new ideas to ferment. And you never know what might pop out.

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

One day, out of the blue, I found a lump in my breast. It was devastating. And while I was waiting for the doctor’s results, I spent many hours reflecting on my life and the dreams I never made happen.

One of those dreams was to write a book. So when I got the all-clear from the doctor, I decided to make that dream happen. After a few false starts, I ended up writing a book about my experience called “Gulp! : the 7-day crash course to master fear and break through any challenge.”

Luckily for me Penguin UK liked it and published it, followed by Random House in the USA.

It was amazing to make that dream come true, and now I coach other people to do the same through our Brainsparker creativity app and academy.

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

“Gulp!” is all about helping people to make their big dreams happen. It includes loads of inspiration, tools and techniques to help people overcome their fears, and find the inner courage and confidence to step outside their comfort zone.

So many people have amazing ideas that never see the light of day, which is such a shame. I really hope that Gulp! can give them the inspiration to at least get started.

We’ve just launched a really cool Gulp! eKit which includes the digital ebook for Gulp!, plus 25-page workbook and 8 weekly coaching lessons.

If you have a big dream or a creative idea but you feel stuck or lack confidence, check out our Gulp! eKit at http://www.gulptime.com
If you are a writer and want a cool app to inspire your writing with random prompts, then check out our free brainsparker app at http://www.brainsparkerapp.com

May 23, 2018

Book Review for Stinger: Operation Cyclone (A Rick Fontain Novel Book 2) by Bill Fortin

Stinger: Operation Cyclone (A Rick Fontain Novel Book 2) by [Fortin, Bill]

Stinger: Operation Cyclone (A Rick Fontain Novel Book 2)

Book Review:

It is hard to believe that this is a work of fiction. It is so realistically written that it feels like a real adventure. I enjoy stories based on the Middle East and therefore this story is a good reading treat. The story dwells heavily with the military operation and how the supply of arms to foreign country is made difficult under the control of the USA. I like how the author described places like Afghanistan and Kuala Lumpur in detail that literally makes me feel like being transported to those places. Some parts of the book will require you to pay close attention to different timelines as the story jumps back and forth to different dates.

A great read and a well thought-out book!

A 4 star for this book

The books blurb:

Rick Fontain is back… A Cold War adventure that peers inside the exploits of Senator Charlie Wilson and CIA’s Task Force Chief Gust Avrakotos. Strange bedfellows they were… their alliance proved to be one of the most successful partnerships in the history of the CIA. Stinger: Operation Cyclone centers on the results of these efforts.

The adventure begins with the election of Ronald Regan in 1979. This was the same year that the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan. Early in 1982 POTUS called for a plan of action to arm and finance the Jihadi warriors known as the Mujahideen. Operation Cyclone was the code name assigned to this project.

CIA Officer Mike Vickers, not a participant in this story, was solicited by Avrakotos to help design and roll out the blueprint to equip the Mujahideen. Included in this Covert Action program was the Stinger guided missile. This weapon system would be credited as the major factor in the Russian withdraw in 1989.

General Gerald Bushman returns as the Director, Defense Intelligence Agency. Rick Fontain, who was now a Member, Technical Staff of AT&T’s Bell Labs, is brought in for his expertise with the Stinger technology. His familiarity with the Russian gunship, the Mil Mi24 was just icing on the cake.

Rick is re-united with his Redeye instructor, Andy Davis, and together they would lay out a plan to kill buku Russian aircraft. However, the operation stalls in 1982 and would not move forward until Rick thwarts an assignation attempt on one, Maalouf Torki bin Taisei. Mr. Taisei is a Malaysian government official. He is also the largest arms dealer on the Pacific Rim.

The KGB gets wind that the Pakistan ISI has agreed to support Operation Cyclone. Their attacks are fierce. However, the result was not what they expected. President Regan issued a change to the original operation requirements. The gloves were to come off. Rick Fontain is told to do whatever it takes to get Stinger into the hands of the Afghan Freedom Fighters.

In 1985 President Zia finally OK’s the American plan to provide the Stinger technology to the Mujahideen. American Special Forces, the Green Beret and DELTA, were assigned to the training center at the ISI’s Ojhri Camp. CIA’s, LTC Jim Pezlola and CWO Gary Larson, solicit the Mujahideen Command to provide students for the very first class of Stinger shooters.
Rick takes the graduating class into Afghanistan to the Russian airbase at Bagram. The rest… as they say… is history. Operation Cyclone may not have ended the Cold War, but it certainly had weakened the Soviet Union’s resolve. So much so… that in 1993 it financially collapsed.

Purchase link:

April 18, 2018

An Interview with Len Trappe

Where are you from?
I am from Philadelphia, Pa. USA

Why do you write? 
I enjoy telling stories and the art of imagining characters and scenes.

What do you write about? 
I write fiction about immigration and anything that invloves children.  I like detective novels.

Do you have a specific writing style?
I usually write in 3rd person.  I tend to follow the hero’s journey but I’m trying to learn new techniques everyday.

What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? 
Name it.  Everyday life.  A job, family, errands.  And then writers block on top of it all.  It’s not easy.

Whats the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?
That the book was fantastic.  You know when someone generally loved it or not.  When they do, it’s thrilling.

How long have you been writing?
Since high school.  I wrote songs, poems, etc.  I wrote short stories all throughout college but I was too hyper to sit and write for hours at a time.

When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
After money stopped becoming the focus.  It is really an enjoyable process.  It’s hard and stressful at times but the journey always ends with excitement.

What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
I can go for 14 hours straight in a good day or lose it after 20 minutes.  I try to write consecutively everyday for at least 4 hours.  If I do that, the book will get done.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
Not sure.

How long does it take to write a book? (if you’ve written one -published or non)
The first one is the long one.  It’s like anything else, the first time you do something, you critique it so many times that you stretch the process.  I’d say on average it should take 6 months.

Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?
Research, listen to other writers, take a course, keep writing-practice makes perfect.

What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story?
Changing the outline mid story is a big one.  Getting the characters down so they’re consistent throughout the book.  Thinking of a story that is different.  Very challenging.

What do you think makes a good story?
Characters having passion about something makes the story.  And also making it exciting.

Check out Len Trappe’s book at https://www.amazon.com/Vanguards-American-Coyotes-Book-1-ebook/dp/B07BQ24QS3

April 15, 2018

Author Interview with Paige P Carranza

Paige P. Carranza

Paige P. Carranza

Describe yourself in five words

Witty, Optimistic, Loving, Thoughtful, Dedicated

What fact about yourself would really surprise people?

I am a musician! I sing and play six instruments: Piano, Guitar, Bass Guitar, Flute, Viola and Cello.

How do you work through self-doubts and fear?

One of my favorite quotes right now is, “Give someone a book they’ll read for a day. Teach someone to write a book, they’ll experience a lifetime of paralyzing self-doubt.” When I first finished my book Lethal Quantities, I hid it in a box for years until I decided it was good enough to publish. I work through my doubts in two ways. My brother is my writing-confidante. I send him my thoughts and works-in- progress, and if it is up to his standards, I know I am doing well. The other way I get through it is by writing. Free writing not only helps me get ideas, but it is like a therapy session for me.

When did you start writing?

My mother has a box filled with little books that I wrote when I was three. I don’t know specifically what sparked my love for writing at such a young age, but I would hide away for hours writing and illustrating little books.

What makes you happiest?

My family. I have two little girls, ages 2.5 and 6 months, and a wonderful husband who supports every endeavor I set on.

Why do you write?

I am a very talkative person who has a lot of creative ideas. Writing excites me and it gives me an excuse to talk for 200+ pages without anyone judging me for being too chatty.

Have you always enjoyed writing?

Absolutely! English was one of my favorite subjects in school and I could whip up a quality five paragraph essay in minutes! Writing is one of the best ways to express yourself.

What inspired your book Lethal Quantities?

There is a song, “What Love Really Means” by JJ Heller. The last stanza of the song is “He’s waiting to die as he sits all alone. He’s a man in a cell who regrets what he’s done. He utters a cry from the depths of his soul saying ‘Lord, forgive me. I want to go home.” I remember thinking “that would be a good book,” and I began to write. Those three lines in a song inspired a ten-chapter, 230-page novella.

What writing are you most proud of?

Of course, I’m very proud of Lethal Quantities, but my current project Carly Ann (to be released July 2018) is really exciting me! I’m trying my hand at horror, and I’ve got to say, I am enjoying it. I want it to be gritty and make people wince when they read it, and with the no-holds-barred attitude I am taking on while writing, I really think I am going to achieve that goal.

What are you most proud of in your personal life?

My children and my role as their mother. My older daughter has Autism and she is making leaps and bounds with progression. My whole day, every day, revolves around her various therapies. My younger daughter is such a happy baby and it makes me proud to know my children are feeling every bit of love I am pouring out for them.

What books did you love growing up?

My favorite series as a child was Junie B. Jones. The “B” stands for Beatrice, except she doesn’t like Beatrice, she just likes B and that’s all.

What do you hope people say about you at your funeral?

“Look! She’s breathing!”

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

Linden, New Jersey. I’ve never lived outside of New Jersey and I feel like if I leave I will always come back.

What are you writing now?

My current project is titled “Carly Ann.” It is a revenge-horror about a young girl who is regularly used as a pawn by her father to make money. During an assault at a party, she snaps and taps into a part of her she didn’t know she had and gets her revenge on the people who have harmed her throughout the years. I don’t want to give too much away.

What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?

I am an Indie-author, so the publishing is easy, and writing is fun for me. Marketing is the worst. I’m starting from scratch and I have no experience in marketing. It’s been a real challenge.

What marketing works for you?

Giveaways seem to be working, especially to help me get reviews. I like giving people the opportunity to read and reply to my books.

Do you find it hard to share your work?

Sort of. The adult content of my books makes me nervous to let people who know me as the happy, innocent, bubbly girl see the crazy things my imagination can come up with. For example, the five pages of detailed sex in the middle if Lethal Quantities. My grandfather casually mentioned to my boss the wide array of profanity in Lethal Quantities and my boss, jokingly, called me a “shameless hussy.”

Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?

My family is incredibly supportive, more than I expected them to be. All my siblings have purchased a copy of my first book, and my husband is great at taking the girls away, so I can write for a few hours. I have the best support system in the world.

What are some of your hobbies other than writing?

I have an insane amount of hobbies. I love music, painting, crafts, reading, blogging, dancing. If it has to do with expressing oneself, I do it.

What other jobs have you had in your life?

Somehow, I always end up working with feet. I worked at a shoe store for a while, then I sold shoes at a department store, and now I am a podiatric medical assistant. I actually really love my job and I am not planning on leaving for at least four more years.

Were there any challenges with editing your book Lethal Quantities?

That’s a long story. In chapter three, the main character and his new “friend” decide they are going to cook Methamphetamine to lower the cost of their high. Initially, they go to a desert…in a van…get naked…and cook the Meth. My husband pointed out that this was the exact same thing that happened in a popular TV show that I SWEAR I NEVER WATCHED. When he showed me the scene, I knew I had to change it. So now they go to a storage unit.

How much research did you have to do for this book?

I did so much research, before, during, and even after my writing. Although it is a fictional story, I wanted it to be accurate. I make jokes all the time that I thought the DEA was going to tear my door down an arrest me for all of the research I was doing on Meth. “How to cook Meth” was one of my top google searches for a while. I also watched multiple documentaries about Death Row, reaction videos of people being sentenced to death, the specific process of Capital Punishment in Texas, and PTSD.

Tell us about your family?

I have five sisters and one brother, a mom and a step-dad (who I consider to be my real dad) and two handsome little nephews. I married my incredible husband when I was nineteen and pregnant with our first daughter. We started dating when I was fifteen and he is my best friend. My first daughter is going to be three in June and she has Autism. I wrote a blog about her on Goodreads.com in recognition of World Autism Awareness Day. We also have a six-month-old baby girl who is my happy little sunshine. She looks just like her daddy and it warms my heart.

How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?

I write in bed on my laptop. A lot of times, though, inspiration strikes me and I will whip out my cell phone to jot down ideas.

How much sleep do you need to be your best?

Well, I’m a mom of two little girls so anything over four hours is perfect.

Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge and thank for their support?

Three people: My mother Denise, my husband Bryan, and my grandfather John. My mom read the very first draft of Lethal Quantities and she was the first to purchase it went it went on sale. She is so proud of me and I couldn’t possibly thank her enough for supporting me. My husband is an ideal father and partner. He inspires me and encourages me and kicks my butt to make sure I am accomplishing my

goals. Pop has always been my number one fan, mostly with my music, but his pride is so great, he tells everyone he meets about his granddaughter who published a book. I couldn’t survive without these three wonderful people.

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

Going to my ten-year high school reunion and having people ask me for my autograph. It’s not necessarily the money or the fame that I am after. It is proving to everyone who ever doubted me that I am capable of greatness.

Do you like to read? What is your favorite genre?

I love reading. It had lost me for a bit, but I have picked up the habit again. I always have a book in my hands now. I love reading memoirs. There’s nothing like a good story about someone who has come from a difficult background and triumphed in the end.

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

Gina Rodriguez and Shane Dawson! She is such a beautiful person inside and out and we have a lot of the same values. Shane Dawson because he is hilarious and would add the much-needed zing to any party.

When you are not writing, how do you like to relax?

I sing a lot of karaoke to my babies. The little one smiles and coos and the toddler will sing and dance along. It’s quality time.

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

I want my writing to be so effective that it shocks the readers. I want them to feel the grittiness that I feel when I write. I want them to want to read more, hang on my every word. At the same time, I want them to be inspired by the young working mother who achieved her dreams of becoming an author. If I could do it, anyone can.

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

Purchase Lethal Quantities E-book here:

http://www.lulu.com/shop/paige-p-carranza/lethal-quantities/ebook/product-23577218.html

Purchase Lethal Quantities Paperback here:

http://www.lulu.com/shop/paige-p-carranza/lethal-quantities/paperback/product-23583277.html

Follow Paige on Instagram:

@paigepcarranza

Follow Paige on Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17808060.Paige_P_Carranza

Follow Paige on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Paige-P-Carranza-1036498083165059/

March 23, 2018

Book Review: Parisa by Conrad Trump

Parisa by Conrad Trump

Book Blurb:

When world class snowboarding sensation Scott Locke returns to his home in West Virginia to be honored by the ski resort where he worked as a teenager, a freak accident costs him the opportunity to compete in the upcoming X-Games. Broken and distraught, the competition soon becomes a secondary consideration when Scott unwittingly releases a force that has been locked away for centuries, a force so powerful and dark that it threatens all mankind. Parisa is an ancient spirit; exotic, beautiful, and mysterious, yet out of place in today’s world. Scott must find a way to help her acclimate and nurture respect, love, and tolerance for humanity. The plan begins to backfire as Scott develops feelings for Parisa and he is drawn into her world of magic and power. In the face of great temptations, Scott must make the ultimate choice. He must decide to sacrifice his love for the sake of all mankind or give in to his passion and enjoy the riches and rewards of unlimited power.

Review:

What I liked most about this book is the author’s choice to have Parisa, the lead woman in the story as the antagonist. This story is about the struggle of a man who fell in love with a spirit, Parisa while trying to save  mankind from an evil force. This story is a great escape for anyone wanting to get lost in a world full of mystery and fantasy as the lead character, Scott, struggles with the ordeals of having released a Genie out of a bottle.

I love the plots and character development, and that makes ‘Parisa’ easy to read.

A 4.5 star for this book