Author: Jasveena R Prabhagaran

September 16, 2022

An Interview with Author Dr. Ganesh Narine

Describe yourself in five words

Philosophical, thoughtful, serious-minded, focused, analytical

What fact about yourself would really surprise people? 

Funny

How do you work through self-doubts and fear? 

Look inward and staying calm

What scares you the most? 

Failure and not making a positive contribution to society

What makes you happiest? 

Being a leader of and an agent for and of positive change

Why do you write? 

I just love encouraging people to do their best at whatever they do.

 Have you always enjoyed writing? 

Yes

What motivates you to write? 

The opportunity to share experiences and to help people to remain safe.

What are you most proud of in your personal life? 

How my wife and I have made ourselves as accomplished and successful professionals. That journey was never an easy one.

What books did you love growing up? 

West Indian Novels especially those by V.S. Naipaul

 What do you hope your obituary will say about you? 

Jeez he is dead

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

I am from Trinidad and Tobago and now live in Canada

How did you develop your writing?

My writing developed over a long 40-year career in the electric utility industry

What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing? 

Marketing

 Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you? 

My wife is my rock. Before that it was my mother. My mother was my true foundation. Everything else was with my wife as the real support.

What else do you do, other than write? 

I love driving long distances and visiting places that way.

 What other jobs have you had in your life? 

I am a career (over 40 years) Engineer/Manager/Executive in the electric power industry. I led all major divisions and some of the largest teams in this business leading and managing major and complex projects and mitigating problems.

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

I have a Ph.D. (Leadership), MPhil (Management), MSc (Engineering), BSc (Engineering).

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

USA

 Tell us about your family? 

My Wife and I are married for nearly 40 years now. She has a PH.D. in Education and works at a University in the Education Faculty. My son is an Electrical Engineer with a decade of working experience in the electric power industry. My daughter-in-law also has a budding career in the same industry. My sister is an MBA graduate from a university in the UK and operated as a manager for an international company in the Caribbean. She is now working in payroll management in Canada.

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

Laptop

How much sleep do you need to be your best? .

4 to 5 hours nightly

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

Your inner self will lead your writing

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

This book (Electric Power Industry Accidents: We Can Learn from Them & We Can Prevent Them) contains a detailed discussion on actual workplace accidents in the electric power industry. I explore the reasons for these accidents and compares similar accidents from different places and times. The work involves an exploration of the electric power industry, the people who work there, and the work strategies, plans, and standards. It is a rare compilation of challenging issues that, if not managed, can lead to future accidents, worker injuries, and possibly deaths. I want to prevent workplace accidents and to always keep workers injury free.

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

My Mother

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

Driving long distances and listening to seventies pop and soul, Trinidad and Tobago local music, and a Bollywood classics

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

To learn how to prevent mishaps, always keep safe and injury free

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ganesh-narine-ph-d-77882b103/

Home
https://scholar.google.ca/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C5&q=Ganesh+Narine&oq=

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ganesh-Narine

September 4, 2022

An Interview with Author T. G. Bryant

T. G. Bryant found his love for writing when he was eight years old. He discovered the idea for “The Canvas Adventures” while looking at a gorgeous painting at a friend’s house. He felt a deep longing to help combat bullying, especially in children and teens. His book’s mission is to help others find their self-worth and purpose.

Bryant has written several other books and comedic scripts for the stage. He considers writing a cathartic hobby. His favorite authors are C. S. Lewis and Lois Lowry.

Outside of writing, Bryant enjoys performing in community theatre, particularly comedies. He and his wife live in the heart of Georgia.

Contact the author: tg.bryant at cox.net

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Houston County, Georgia.

Why do you write? 

I write because it’s truly my favorite thing to do! I’m passionate about storytelling and creating something that is my own. I find that writing is a good escape.

What do you write about? 

The Canvas Adventures tells the story of Gabriel, an introvert, on an unexpected journey, when he is literally pushed into a magical oil canvas painting and transported into an unfamiliar world.

Do you have a specific writing style?

I am in my mid-thirties, but I still believe in longhand writing. I write out a list of ideas. That list becomes sentences, and those sentences become paragraphs, and so on. I find that writing it out with a pen and paper is part of the style that makes my writing unique. I then take those notes (which are often, very messy) and type them up. It’s also a chance to fix things that may not make sense.

What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? 

Any writer will tell you – writers block is the first thing that always gets in the way of finishing a good story. The trick is to not force yourself to finish. You sometimes need to take a break. That may be an hour, a week, a month, or longer. Don’t’ rush the process just to finish. You want to provide the best product. You readers deserve your best.

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

I never sought out to write a book for children with autism. However, I have found that several of my readers are on the spectrum. It’s a blessing to hear “My child loved your book. He couldn’t put it down.” I’ve also heard, “My child felt different until he realized that being different isn’t a bad thing. Your book showed him that he’s loved and capable of loving.” I love those moments! 

How long have you been writing?

For as long as I can remember. I’ve always been fascinated by storytelling.

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

My love for writing first came about when I was in second grade. More on that later…

What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

I firmly believe that writing should be done strictly based around the ideas and notes you have at that time. You shouldn’t write just to write. We all have writers block or get backed into a corner from time to time. Take a break. Come back later. Don’t rush the process. The end result will be well worth it.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I will often have an idea in my head and immediately write it down. Truly. Immediately. This means if I’m in bed, I grab a notebook and scribble it down before I forget. I’m sure my wife wishes I’d wait until the next morning to write something down.

How long does it take to write a book?

It took me a few years to finish my debut novel, The Canvas Adventures. I wanted to write something that was both timely and timeless. Meaning, I wanted to write about bullying, as I feel we’ve seen a recent rise through social media harassment. However, bullying isn’t new. I also wanted to write a book that helped someone overcome that type of abuse. Writing a book like that takes time-and in my case, about three years!

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

Network with other writers and learn their process. Learn what works for them and explain what works for you, too. Talk to others. Grow. Share. Don’t be afraid to change your mind. I had an ending figured out for The Canvas Adventures, but guess what? I ended up going a completely different route!

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

Writing evil characters is somehow easier than writing your protagonist. You want your protagonist to have flaws. Gabriel, in my novel, has plenty. But he’s also someone you want to root for in the end. My antagonists, on the other hand, seem a bit easier. I like to write the character of Marge Canton. She’s evil but you learn through her backstory why she became that way. It’s challenging to make your protagonists likeable but also find a way to make your antagonists’ motives understood.

What do you think makes a good story?

A good story is one you can’t put down. A good story is one that is relatable. Once your story is too far outside the realm of reality, you’ve lost your audience. It’s important when writing fiction/fantasy stories that your reader can picture themselves in those situations.

What does your family think of your writing? 

My family, particularly my wife, Shannon, have been tremendously supportive. They are also honest to a fault. So, if I’ve written something that isn’t the best-they will tell me straight out. I love the fact that they have all read my book and given me the ‘seal of approval,’ figuratively speaking.

Do you see writing as a career?

I see writing as a hobby. I love it. I’d love to turn it into a career, but I love my day job.

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

I like to encourage those who feel like they have a book inside them to go for it! It’s never too late to accomplish one of your dreams. It’s okay to be different. We were all made by our loving creator for a purpose. Find that purpose and go for it!

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

My love for writing first came about when I was in second grade. My teacher had us write daily in ‘reading logs,’ and encouraged us to write freely. I loved this part of the school day. I remember one day, she touched my shoulder, looked at what I wrote and said, “You’ll be a writer one day.” That has always stuck with me!

***

Visit the author’s website on www.tgbryant.com

Buy the book on Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-canvas-adventures-t-g-bryant/1130371545?ean=9781976716492

August 24, 2022

Book Review: Kidnap Marilyn

In KIDNAP MARILYN, a government whistleblower reveals what could, and more importantly, should have happened to the icon.

The CIA psychologist assigned to spy on her discovers the Deep State’s assassination plot. Knowing she does not deserve to die, he goes rogue and plans her kidnapping. But how can he prevent relentless pursuers from murdering them both?

Throughout her life, Marilyn was the quintessential Me Too victim. She became intimate with John and Robert Kennedy, who tried to impress her by revealing some of this nation’s darkest secrets.

Singing “Happy Birthday, Mister President” caused an instant scandal, and they dumped her. RFK then demanded Marilyn conceal their affairs. Shocked, the jilted actress threatened to disclose the top-secret information to prove their trysts.

Central Intelligence Agency officials, determined to prevent this, assigned Dr. Dirk Mitchell to analyze her behavior. Realizing Monroe was depressed and drug dependent, he recommended she be abducted and taken to an Agency’ black site’ where he could employ hypnotic techniques to remove any memories of classified information.

But when CIA officials instead planned her assassination, he decided to risk his own life to save her. Mitchell then discovered that an erstwhile Marilyn impersonator had just died of a drug overdose and staged a body swap. During their escape attempt, Mitchell must employ his secret agent skills to outsmart would-be assassins while treating Monroe’s mental problems and resisting her amorous overtures.

The scenario described herein is consistent with the known facts of this epic mystery.

The author received numerous classified assignments and prestigious awards during his career. He also worked with CIA and FBI operatives, including one that knew RFK. But to avoid becoming a whistleblower again, he presents this information in a novel.

His first book, Silent Knights: Blowing the Whistle on Military Accidents and Their Coverups, was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize, and he has appeared on numerous programs such as CNN State of the Union, Fox News Sunday, and BBC Witness History.

John J. Nance, New York Times best-selling author, says:

“A fast, exciting, and thought-provoking read. Dr. Alan Diehl has cleverly crafted the known elements of Marilyn Monroe’s reported demise with a second and third layer of probability that suggests a very different conclusion. This is a tightly woven tale of intrigue, and one you will not want to put down, even at 3 AM.”

Joseph Badal, Amazon #1 Best Selling Author of the Danforth Saga series, says:

“Kidnap Marilyn has it all: iconic characters, intrigue, tension, and a proposed solution to a conspiracy that will make you question everything you have ever read about Marilyn Monroe’s death. This is a thriller that you will not be able to put down.”

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Alan E. Diehl, PhD, is a former US government investigator, whistleblower and acclaimed author whose views are often sought by the media and officials. He reveals what could and more importantly should have happened to the icon. While this book was inspired by real events it is historical fiction. In Dr. Diehl’s book #Marilyn Monroe doesn’t die but in fact is abducted by a CIA agent, who wanted the agency to use their MK-Ultra techniques to erase her memories of the secret information the Kennedy brothers had given her rather than kill her. The book is a lot like Quentin Tarantino’s blockbuster movie, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” where actress Sharon Tate escapes death.

August 18, 2022

Author Interview with P. Anthony Michael

Michael received a creative writing certificate from the University of West Virginia in the late 90s. He’s been running a successful writer’s group called For The Love Of Words for almost two decades. When he has time, he teaches in the local library Story 101 – How to create a story. He has won in every category over a five-year period in a state-funded wordsmith competition in Poetry, Essay, Short Story, and One-Act Play.

  • Why do you write? 

Why do you breathe?  It is a part of life essentials, for me.  I have to create and tell the stories no one is writing.

  • Have you always enjoyed writing? 

No.  When I was in 8th grade, I thought it was a lot of work.  When I went to college, I rediscovered that part of me that I ignored and I have been writing ever since.

  • What do you write about? 

Everything and anything.  I won in every category in the NJ wordsmith competition over a five-year period.  That is to include Short Story, One Act Play, Essay, and Poetry.

  • How long have you been writing? 

Since the late ’90s.

  • What motivates you to write? 

The what if question.  What if something challenges you in a way you have never been tested?  Do you meet the challenge or run from it?  What if you do nothing? What would happen?  It opens the door to infinite possibilities.

  • What do you think makes a good story? 

Characters, one person once said people will forget the plot, but people will never forget the characters.   It’s how relatable and likable the created characters are.  Sometimes, you want the audience to see themselves in their shoes.

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

Making everything plausible takes lots of research.  In some cases, you have to suspend disbelief to follow a story but in most cases, I try to anchor the story in reality.

  • How do you write – Laptop, paper, pen, pencil, in bed or at a desk? 

Everybody’s process is different from what I see and hear.  I’m old-fashioned and like a pencil with a pad of paper.  Once I get a chuck down, I head to my desktop and transcribe my notes, adding in settings, movements, etc.  The bulk of the work is on paper.

  • What is your work schedule like when writing? 

I make time to write when I write.  Usually late mornings or early evening, at least an hour or until I get the scene or thought done.

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

I need alone time to be creative.  I can do it almost anywhere as long I’m not being interrupted.  The worst thing to happen is to have that idea, that dialogue or conversation in your head and as you write it down, someone calls your name or interrupts the thought process and that idea is lost.

  • How long does it take to write a book? 

That depends on what I’m writing.  I have some manuscripts that took years to complete, while others took a month or two.  It really comes down to how complex the story is.  The more subplots, the longer the piece.  It all depends on the story idea.  I wish I had a more precise answer than that.

  • What is the hardest – writing, getting published, or marketing? 

I can tell you it goes in steps.  Writing would be the easiest part of the equation.  You create the content and have your peers/beta readers give you feedback to tighten up the story before you polish the piece.  Getting published is the next hard step to take.  Why. Because there are so many ways to do it. But for sake of time, let me run it down to you.  First – get an agent.  No go on that, then submit to the publisher (Traditional publishing) No go on that, then submit to Hybrid/vanity press.  The difference between the two is Hybrids are supposed to be selective while Vanity is not.  Either way, it will cost you anywhere between $3000 to $6000 to produce the book.  Don’t like those odds. Lastly, go self-publishing, where you have to do everything and the cost will be around four grand.  Third and last, which I think is the hardest because I’m doing this right now, Marketing.  This is hard because you have to make yourself stand out from all the other voices out there.  The good thing is places like Fiverr has influencers that can help you out – for a price.  The main issue is finding the right combination of noise you make to get people’s attention and invest in your product.

  • Tell us about your new novella and why did you write it? 

It started out as a short story that I wrote in an evening and tossed aside.  I was going through my short story collection when I saw it and read it.  Thought I could add some more meat to the bones and ask myself questions like:  Why would they go to a mountain?  I answer that question, write that scene and continue writing and asking until I had the whole story. 

If Gail knew Uncle Perkins’ stories were true, she wouldn’t have taken her friends up that mountain.  The plan was simple. Hike, camp, and ride the zip line back down the mountain. But Uncle Perkins’ stories are true, and the horrors are real. Now the simple plan is the only plan they have to get off that mountain or disappear, remaining there forever.

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

This is one of those stories you sit back read, laugh, surprise, wonder, and try to figure out how are they going to get out of this until the very end.  I’ll tip my hat and say, everyone loves the character Sam.

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

Oh yeah, Just write the damn story.  You can’t edit a blank page.  There is so much to learn about storytelling.  You don’t need to waste money on classes, seminars, and the like.  What you do is go to YouTube and look up Film Courage.  They have everything you need to know on how to craft stories from the core wound of the protagonist to the three-act structure and everything in-between.  I know a lot about the craft and yet I’m still surprised by the information that comes my way that helps me craft a better story.

  • Any last thoughts?

My first published book is a novella called Zip Line available on Amazon, Barnes and noble as well as other sites.  You can reach me at my website P. Anthony Michael.com if you want to purchase the book or interact with me.  Starting September 1st you can blog with me on Thursdays evening and Sunday night.  I’m doing YouTube video about the craft of writing. 

August 17, 2022

Book Review: All The Rivers Flow Into The Sea by Khanh Ha

Author of Mrs. Rossi’s Dream, a 2019 Foreword Reviews INDIES Silver and Bronze Winner (War & Military Adult Fiction); and A Mother’s Tale & Other Stories, a Foreword Reviews INDIES Bronze Winner 

From Vietnam to America, this story collection, jewel-like, evocative and layered, brings to the readers a unique sense of love, passions and the tragedy of rape, all together contrasting a darker theme of perils. The titular story captures a simple love story that transcends cultural barriers. The opening story “A Woman-Child” brings the shy eroticism of adolescence set against a backdrop of the seaside with its ever present ecological beauty. A youthful love affair between an older American man and a much younger Vietnamese girl has its poignant brevity in “All the Pretty Little Horses.” In “The Yin-Yang Market” magical realism and the beauty of innocence abounds in deep dark places, teeming with life and danger. “A Mute Girl’s Yarn” tells a magical coming-of-age story like sketches in a child’s fairy book.

Bringing together the damned, the unfit, the brave who succumb by their own doing to the call of fate, their desire to survive never dying, it is a great journey to inhabit this world where redemption of human goodness arises out of violence and beauty to become part of its essential mercy.

Review:

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Having read one of Khanh Ha’s books before, I knew his writing style is going to leave an impact on me, at least for a few days, with the melancholic plots and stories with very real and relatable characters. This book and its short stories are no different too. I particularly enjoy Khanh’s stories, as they depict struggles the Vietnamese face, from the time of war and its impact post-war. The everyday lives of people are filled with sadness, contentment, and a mixture of feelings that leave you feeling sad.

I like how each story, like the one in The Woman-Child, reflects the life of a young girl, and how being born into a poor family, she yearns to go to school, and also perceives Americans to be rich in general. Overall, I loved reading these stories and I would highly recommend it if you would love to explore different cultures and the impact wars have on people.

August 14, 2022

Book Review: Entrepreneurial Mindset by Eric Cominski Jr.

Pеrfесtіоn is thе еnеmу оf progress-It’s a familiar арhоrіѕm thаt nobody understands better thаn еntrерrеnеurѕ. Yоung оr іnеxреrіеnсеd еntrерrеnеurѕ mіght gеt саught up іn сhаѕіng thеіr оrіgіnаl vision bесаuѕе original vіѕіоnѕ are аlmоѕt invariably “реrfесt.” But perfection іѕn’t necessary to run a ѕuссеѕѕful аnd рrоfіtаblе business. In fасt, perfection іѕ often whаt ѕtаllѕ progress. Thе tіmе уоu spend trying tо hаmmеr dоwn thоѕе last fеw details іѕ lіkеlу gоіng to еnd uр аѕ tіmе wasted. Instead, ѕреnd уоur еffоrtѕ оn the bіg рісturе, and mаkе sure іt’ѕ solid. This is juѕt thе bеgіnnіng. Entrерrеnеurѕhір is аbоut ѕоlvіng рrоblеmѕ аnd buіldіng nеw thіngѕ. Entrерrеnеurѕhір is important еѕресіаllу nоwаdауѕ whеn we have tо learn hоw tо ореrаtе іn аn increasingly changing wоrld. It includes both a mіndѕеt роіnt оf view, whеrе problems аrе seen аѕ орроrtunіtіеѕ and fаіlurеѕ аѕ learning experiences and ѕkіllѕ thаt hеlр уоu lеаrn to ѕоlvе рrоblеmѕ and build ѕоmеthіng nеw. Practicing entrepreneurial аttіtudеѕ аnd аbіlіtіеѕ аrе useful еvеn if уоu аrе not уеt looking tо ѕtаrt your оwn buѕіnеѕѕ. They help you to ѕее thе challenges of wоrk and life more dіvеrѕеlу, and аlѕо tо ѕоlvе рrоblеmѕ thаt wоuld bе dіffісult оr even іmроѕѕіblе tо ѕоlvе uѕіng trаdіtіоnаl mеаnѕ. If уоu fіnd a problem, a ѕоlutіоn, a mаrkеt, аnd a tеаm thаt trulу іnѕріrеѕ уоu, уоu саn аlѕо соnѕіdеr ѕtаrtіng уоur own buѕіnеѕѕ. Entrерrеnеurѕhір іѕ a grеаt adventure and оnе оf thе mоѕt rewarding еxреrіеnсеѕ іn уоur life. At іtѕ bеѕt, іt саn bring significant орроrtunіtіеѕ fоr success. At thе vеrу least, іt provides еxреrіеnсеѕ fоr learning and development that wоuld оthеrwіѕе bе unlіkеlу to оссur. Developing an entrepreneurial mіndѕеt іѕ nоt a оnе-mоnth project. You have tо ѕtау committed tо іt for thе rest of уоur lіfе. Unlосk уоur grеаtеѕt роtеntіаl whіlе dеаlіng wіth the іnеvіtаblе сhаllеngеѕ that еntrерrеnеurѕhір wіll brіng уоur way. All you nееd to dо is ѕtау focused аnd committed to уоur gоаlѕ and long-term vіѕіоn. Fіnd the motivation to keep gоіng аnd grоwіng, even whеn nоthіng ѕееmѕ tо bе going уоur wау. Thіѕ іѕ what bеіng an еntrерrеnеur аnd running a buѕіnеѕѕ іѕ аll аbоut. Entrерrеnеurѕ are not born but саn асԛuіrе еntrерrеnеurіаl skills (mіndѕеt) bу rеаdіng books, оbѕеrvіng ѕuссеѕѕful еntrерrеnеurѕ, оr having formal соасhіng ѕеѕѕіоnѕ. Thеу learn by doing аnd іn the process, a fеw mіndѕеt сhаngеѕ, bеlіеfѕ gеt erased аnd nеw оnеѕ gеt embedded. Thеу fосuѕ аlwауѕ on thе bіg рісturе and do nоt gеt bogged bу a fеw missteps that сrеаtеd hurdlеѕ.

Fаіlurе іѕ nоt a cause оf dеѕроndеnсу but еnlіghtеnmеnt. Mіlеѕ tо go, mіlеѕ to gо аnd thе еntrерrеnеurіаl jоurnеу has no end.

Review:

Rating: 4 out of 5.

It is a short book consisting of about 102 pages. You can finish reading this book in one sitting. As an entrepreneur and a father himself, Eric has shared his journey in the world of entrepreneurship, and shared some of the insights he learned. Although some of the key aspects of the book may feel familiar, as all entrepreneurs somehow go through similar paths that are very much relatable, what makes this compact book different from the others is the sharing of his views on entrepreneurship as a father and what comes Eric’s way while striving to achieve his goals in business.

The book covered several important aspects like mental health of an entrepreneur, how to have the right mindset and how every individual can leverage their strength to define entrepreneurship in their own way, as unique and unconventional solutions to problems are what the world often needs. The book also touched on handling failure and how this can be done in a graceful way, as entrepreneurs would surely bump into situations that would challenge their faith in achieving success. Apart from that, what goals mean differs to every entrepreneur and Eric also has guided readers on how to define goalsetting for themselves.

There are two chapters on mental health that could have been combined as they are quite relevant to one another – this would ensure the consistency in the presentation of idea. Apart from that, the general definitions of entrepeneur, mental health and etc., could have been omited as people who are reading the book most likely are aware of the general definition of them already.

Overall, it is a joyable short book that would surely make you rethink your entrepreneurial journey.

August 11, 2022

An Interview with Author Eric Cominski Jr.

Writing his first book “Da Grustle 1 Million in the Making” Cominski wants everyone to know being an entrepreneur is not easy. Growing up seeing all the videos with the cars, girls, and flashy jewels. He knew that no one really knows what it takes. Writing this book he gives a little background information on where he grew up. Putting some family events in the book to also let the readers know he had a basic life and came across real life situations that he had to fight thru.

With his new book, Entrepreneurial Mindset he talks about what it takes to do what he does as a husband father and entrepreneur.

Get your copy of the book everywhere books are sold or here on the website. https://www.cominski.com/

1) Describe yourself in five words.
A- Kind of a Big Deal

2) Why do you write?
A- I write to share my experience and to build my build. Writing for me is a tool I use to reach people.

3)What do you write about?
A- At this moment just what I know. I write about what I get asked the most. Like with my first book people was asking me how I started my business or how did I make it through the tuff times, so I wrote Da Grustle: 1 million in the making. Now with this book Entrepreneurial Mindset I talk about what it takes to do what I do as a husband father and entrepreneur.

4) How do you work through self-doubts and fear?
A- One day at a time. Everyone has them so it’s not like it’s not normal but for the most part I take my time working through them.

5) Have you always enjoyed writing?
A- Not really, it’s funny because I really never looked at writing a book as something that I would do but when you understand how life works you want to try new things to grow as a person and writing was one of them things for me.

6) What writing are you most proud of? 
A- I’m proud of all my writing but if I had to pick one it would be my book “Entrepreneurial Mindset” because I applied all points of my life in this book and created the blueprint for the person who is trying to be a husband, father, and entrepreneur.

7) What motivates you to write?
A- The world, just the people around me and my brand. Writing is just a small step, but I do it because I know the impact it has.

8) When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
A- When I realize I have to expand my brand. When I say my brand, I mean me. As an entrepreneur I knew what every I was doing I had to find ways to build my brand and writing a book was what I saw.

9) What else do you do, other than write?
A- O man, what I don’t do would be easier to answer. Short answer, I am a content creator. Anything dealing with content creation and every aspect of that I do.

10) Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge and thank for their support?
A- My mom, she played a big part in who I am now. She helped me believe I can do whatever I want, and she supported me through it all. Also, anyone that helped me with the smallest thing. There are many people that I learn things from that they do not even know they have help me. I want to thank all of you guys, you know who you are.

https://www.cominski.com/

August 1, 2022

Book Review: The Urban Boys – Discovery of the Five Senses by K. N. Smith

Blurb:

Welcome or unwelcome. Fate has arrived.

“A captivating and poetic tale of mystery, fantasy, and reality tied together by action!” 5-stars, Lars Jackson, Amazon Customer

A suspenseful incident in a forbidden preserve heightens the senses of five friends. Sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell become super-gifts that forever change the world. But furious battles confront the boys as they try to understand their sensory super powers in a race to save mankind. With light beings and mysterious strangers complicating their plight, will the boys defeat the evil Druth before it’s too late? Get prepared for the twisting and grinding of this award-winning, action-adventure story — an edge-of-your-seat narrative for young and mature readers alike.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Review:

It felt kind of like Enid Blyton’s The Famous Five – it brings back the memories of reading good YA books. I have never read any books with the main characters having their senses heightened and that was something totally new to me.

It is a story of five friends; five different characters who decided to take a stroll into a forest they were told never to go to by their parents. As they explore the forest, they come across super natural incidents of exploding balls of light, where their senses were heightened. Each one of them has a different sense heightened. With this newfound ability, the boys also take on the responsibility to fight crimes that happen in the vicinity of their town. What follows is a series of suspense and thriller as the boys combat evil and the challenges that come their way.

The story is a little long-winded and flowery, for me but the storyline is not that easy to figure out, which makes the story interesting. There are also descriptive writings in the book, which may not interest some readers, especially the young ones. However, over all it is an enjoyable read and the heightened senses were quite compelling.

July 29, 2022

Author Interview with Raven Coyne

Raven Coyne: Is a trained historian and writer. A Denver Colorado native, when encountered Raven can be found spending time writing, racing bicycles too fast everywhere, and catering to Ares the Cat!

Describe yourself in five words: 

Curious, Quiet, Funny (I hope), Determined (read stubborn), Observant.

What fact about yourself would really surprise people? 

I’ve lived around the world, including Ireland, Turkey, and Germany.

How do you work through self-doubts and fear? 

That’s the writers natural state of existence I think. Doubting your talents. The only cure is to write and keep putting yourself out there.
What scares you the most? 

Being alone I think is the worst fate anyone can bear. We are social creatures and telling people about you is a basic need in humans.

What makes you happiest? 

Writing.  I know, I know, I’m supposed to say that. But it’s true. I write at night and the ideas flow the story unfolds as it should. That’s a natural high that cannot be beat.

Why do you write?

Writers are natural spies. They see the world then scuttle home and form what they see into a new reality. That’s why I write I think to make sense of all that is around me.

Have you always enjoyed writing? 

No, when I was younger I wrote very little. I never seemed able to finish anything.  Only later was I able to realize what a pure act of creation writing is.
What motivates you to write? 

What I see, what goes on around and within me. I live mostly in my head, so what is inside there just has to come out.

What writing are you most proud of? 

Anything I finish? LOLOL There are times when what I write is better than myself.  Those plots, dialog, or clever scenes I cherish.  I can’t make them happen.  Only the muses can grant you that perfect moment.

What books did you love growing up? 

The Foundation Trilogy by Issac Asimov, The Memorial War Book (American Civil War written in 1882), There are more but those two always come to mind.

What do you hope your obituary will say about you? 

I did my best and lived my life to its fullest using every moment.

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

I grew up here in Colorado in the mountains.  I live in Denver both those environments play a big part in my staging of some stories.  I don’t use Colorado per se but I use the environment.

How did you develop your writing?

I sat down and started writing and I never gave up. I write every day.

What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing? 

I’d say getting known in a sea of faces. That’s hard. You have to have something worth shouting about, and then you have to shout the right way to attract attention. There are so many options and many of them are useless. So, it’s hunt and peck until you find what works.

What marketing works for you? 

My books. The best marketing you can do is to write and publish write and publish until the can no longer ignore you.

Do you find it hard to share your work? 

No, I know I’m going to get knocked.  Hey, it happens.  I wear my one stars proudly, usually I earned them. I also earned all my five stars as well.

Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you? 

I have few friends and most do not know I write.  My family can take it or leave it.  Mostly they think I’m crazy.  Of course they’d think I’m crazy even if I didn’t write.  But there are times when I release a book that does well and I get atta-boys.  Those are wonderful.

What else do you do, other than write? 

I race bikes, climb, travel, and run my businesses outside of writing.

What other jobs have you had in your life? 

I was a soldier in the US Army, a dishwasher, cleaned houses, fix computers.  I’m easily bored so I like to do lots of things. LOLOL

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

My focus was on History and I would still pick that.  If you want to make sense of the world learn what happened before you.

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

Colorado and I’m lucky I am there.

Tell us about your family? 

My folks are deceased now.  But my family was a crazy collection of misanthropes and individualists.  I like people so I really was the odd man out.  But I got good parents who encouraged my every ambition.

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

Desktop and at a desk.  When it’s time to work I work.

How much sleep do you need to be your best?  

Ummmm about six hours I think.  I love mornings to get things done in so I am up early.

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

Lea and Diane who both believed I could write and encouraged me to sit down write, finish, and publish dammit.

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

Pay my bills with my writing.  Bottom line that is a successful writer when you don’t have to moonlight.  But it’s not given to very many writers.  I dream about the day when someone asks me “what do you do?”  And I answer “I’m a writer.”  Instead of something like “I clean houses but what I really want is to be a writer.

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

I use many Fiverr gigs, but also I advertise on Amazon and Apple.  I write to specific subjects several books so I keep coming up on the searches. 

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

Vampire of Paris, I thought that gay Paris in the 1890 would make a great setting for a Vampire accused of murder. 

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

Shelby Foote, Robert Heinlein, Einstein, U.S. Grant, Robert E. Lee, Abraham Lincoln and Queen Elizabeth the first.  What a line up huh?  There’s others but I’m out of room around the table.  LOLOLOLOL

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

I like to read and ride my bike to places I’ve never seen.

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

I want them to have enjoyed the story, to let go of their cares and just immerse themselves in the world I’ve written.  That’s what good writing does for you.

http://www.ravencoyne.com

ravencoyne at ravencoyne.com

Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/author/ravencoyne

July 27, 2022

Author Interview with Jevon White

Fessasion aka Sadiki-I, was born Jevon White on the Caribbean island of Montserrat in the West Indies. Jevon later immigrated to the United States, settling in Boston where his father co-founded the annual Caribbean Carnival. Growing up in Boston, Jevon was deeply influenced by the hip-hop movement and became fascinated with the art of emceeing. After his father’s sudden passing in 1984, he returned to Montserrat and attended Montserrat Secondary School where he continued to develop his talents as a performer and emcee.

Jevon enrolled in university at the prestigious Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. Soon after college, he discovered the RasTafari faith, and returned to Montserrat once again. After some time later, he returned to the states again, and Sadiki-I made a successful debut on the Reggae/Dancehall scene with his album, I Man See Judgments. Over the next several years, he recorded songs with Reggae legends such as Junior Reid, Terry Ganzie, and Mr. Eazy, and performed live on many stages throughout USA.

Driven by a deep desire to pray at the site of the Ark of the Covenant, and thus be closer to God, Sadiki-I set forth on a pilgrimage to Axum, Ethiopia, where, by a stroke of divine intervention he had the exquisitely rare privilege of meeting the monk who guards the Ark of the Covenant.

To learn more about his journey, be sure to order a copy of his book today!

What fact about yourself would really surprise people?

I am shy sometimes

How do you work through self-doubts and fear?

I pray and turn to God

What scares you the most?

Not living up to the full expectation of Almighty God

What makes you happiest?

Helping people

Why do you write?

I write to record my thoughts and also to entertain and educate others. I am also a singer songwriter as well.

Have you always enjoyed writing?

Yes

https://hnaprnews.wordpress.com/2022/06/06/12-lessons-i-learned-from-the-guardian-monk-of-the-ark-of-the-covenant-book-out-now/

What motivates you to write?

Don’t need motivation to write.

What writing are you most proud of?

My latest book… “12 Lessons I learned From the Guardian Monk of the Ark of Covenant.”
What are you most proud of in your personal life?

Finishing the new Temple for the Ark of Covenant and restoration of the old one.

What books did you love growing up?

The Bible

What do you hope your obituary will say about you?

He did his best!

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

Montserrat, Boston

How did you develop your writing?

My high school teachers used to always tell me that I write well. So I guess from a young age.

Do you find it hard to share your work?

No!

Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?

Yes!

What else do you do, other than write?

Real Estate Investor

What other jobs have you had in your life?

Acquisitions Manager, Construction, Car Dealership Manager, Auto Technician

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

Artificial Intelligence

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

Africa

Tell us about your family?

Not married / no children

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

All of the above

How much sleep do you need to be your best?

6 hours

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

The Creator

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

Getting paid to speak and selling lots of books.

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

My new book “12 Lessons I leaned from the Guardian Monk of the Ark of Covenant” is a book about my experiences in Ethiopia and my interactions with the Guardian Monk. T

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