author interview

December 24, 2021

An Interview with Author Ginny Rana

With her debut book, Joys & Memories: Revisiting Childhood, Ginny Rana endeavours to unravel some natural wonders of the beautiful world that surrounds us. She loves nature and is intrigued by the mysteries and wonders of the ever-growing world that surrounds us. She takes the reader down the happy lanes of childhood and along the paths of nature. In today’s modern world, where people are moving away from the real, natural world, she urges them to embrace and re-connect with nature.
Besides writing, she is an active volunteer with the WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature). She loves travelling and exploring new places.

Q1. Where are you from?
A. I live in Delhi, India.


Q2. Why do you write?
A. I love to pen my thoughts. Writing gives me a sense of creative satisfaction.


Q3. What do you write about?
A. I write about almost anything that strikes my fancy, just about anything and everything under the sun.


Q4. Do you have a specific writing style?
A. Don’t think so.


Q5. What are the obstacles that come in the way of writing?
A. Regular day to day activities disrupt the flow of thoughts and often hinder the fluency and pace of writing.


Q6. What is the most memorable thing said by a reader about your work?
A. Once a reader complemented after reading a few of my poems saying that they are so happy. She said they seem to have been written straight from the heart.


Q7. How long have you been writing?
A. I’ve been writing since the age of sixteen. But it was more of a leisure activity. Gradually, however, the urge towards concrete and structured writing grew. That’s when I thought of trying to bring together some of my thoughts in the form of a book.


Q8. When did you first realize that you wanted to become a writer?
A. When I used to read works of other authors and poets, I used to marvel at the beauty of their work. I would hope that someday, I could also become a writer and inspire readers. For the last may be 10-12 years, I wanted to become a writer.


Q9. What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
A. While I’m writing, even when I’m involved with other activities, it’s like my mind is elsewhere. I’m trying to create rhymes or structure thoughts into sentences. The minute, something worthwhile crops up; I stop whatever I’m doing and run to pen down the ideas before they get lost.


Q10. What you say is your interesting writing quirk?
A. I love to write about things around me. Even mundane phenomena can take up interesting forms for me or simply be turned into metaphors of life.


Q11. How long does it take to write a book?
A. It took me about 2-3 months to write my first book.


Q12. Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?
A. A lot of reading. And when you write, don’t tie your ideas to rules of grammar or spellings, just write freely.


Q13. What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story?
A. The biggest challenge for me is to think of a worthwhile subject to commence my content. Once I like the idea, then there’s no looking back.


Q14. What do you think makes a good story?
A. Well, I haven’t written a story. But from the ones I read, I think an excellent plot and well-developed characters go a long way in making a great story.


Q15. What does your family think of your writing?
A. My family is very supportive of my creative pursuit. I think they understand how special writing means to me.
Q16. Do you see writing as a career?
A. I enjoy writing. It makes me happy and it’s like attaining a creative salvation. My work is my career. If I can carve a career in writing alongside work, it would be a welcome addition.


Q17. Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?
A. A famous quote by Margaret Fuller comes to mind, “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.” I firmly believe it and would like to tell everyone to read, read and read. You can never imagine how many beautiful thoughts and ideas can ignite your imagination and change your world.


Q18. When did you first consider yourself a writer?
When saw the first look of my book, Joys and Memories: Revisiting Childhood, that’s when I considered myself a writer.

December 21, 2021

Author Interview with Brian Price 

Brian Price worked in the marketing and communications industry for nine years. The Public Relations Society of America, American Business Awards, and Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals are a few of the organizations that awarded his work.

But who actually cares about that?

He certainly doesn’t.

Sick of bookshelves being stuffed with bureaucrats’ memoirs and snake-oil entrepreneurs using novels as sales funnels, Brian started wrote a novel, Last Chance California.

If he isn’t reading or writing, Brian is probably playing with his rescue pup, Bucky, or ranting about the government.

Why do you write? 

Writing brings me joy. It’s challenging. It’s fun. It’s a battle against oneself.

If I didn’t write, I don’t know what I’d be doing. It’s something I’ve always enjoyed doing. Before I wrote a novel, I was in marketing and public relations, where I spent a majority of my days sitting in someone else’s office writing.

Even while working full-time, I’d still find time to create my own short stories, jokes, thoughts or whatever else popped in my mind. Unfortunately, I’d write my own ideas down during meetings or while on the clock at my job. There were just things I just had to get out and onto paper. There are always things I need to get out. Writing is an obsession with me. It always has been.

What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? 

People. Dogs. Existence in today’s world. There’s always a crisis. Something constantly needs my attention.

I often fantasize about owning a cabin in the woods far away from the universe where I can write.

I do my best work when I’m isolated.

Or maybe that’s the pandemic fatigue talking.

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

A good friend of mine read a beta version of Last Chance California, and after he finished, we had a long talk about our fathers. The book helped him articulate some of the things he felt towards his own father. Being able to reach him in that way was one of my proudest moments as a writer.

How long have you been writing?

I started writing before I could even write sentences. I have books from my childhood with pictures and squiggly lines underneath them.  I always wanted to be a storyteller. If I wasn’t reading, I was writing. I’d give my family stories and books for holidays and birthdays. Sometimes I’d just write to write. There’s nothing I enjoy more than writing.

Well, no.

That’s not entirely accurate.

There are a few things I do enjoy more than writing.

What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

Wake up. Coffee with my gratitude journal, philosophy reading and general reading. Get a fresh cup. Write some words. And that’s what I do for the rest of the day. I’ll take a few breaks throughout the day to play with pup, eat, or stretch, but for the most part, I’m writing or editing from nine to six. After that, its dinner, some educational videos on famous writers, the publishing industry or how to self-publish before I do some more writing.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I don’t know if it’s a quirk, but I light a certain candle and make music playlists for every book. I love to set the mood for writing.

And if a character is sad, I like to get myself feeling sad. I do the same for any type of mood. That way I can write with passion. I think that translate in my novel. Or at least that’s what I was going for.

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

Too long.

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

Be true and honest with your words. Readers can tell when an author is holding back, not being truthful, or trying to imitate another writer. The key to writing is to write like yourself. Don’t try to be something you’re not. No one can write like you.

What do you think makes a good story?

Good stories need to hit all the human emotions. Desperation. Hopelessness. Fear. Loss. Sadness. Pride. Love. Triumph. Happiness. Add those emotions with flawed and memorable character and a hopeful ending and you might be onto something.

What does your family think of your writing? 

No idea. It’s terrifying to be honest. I’m not sure if they enjoy it or hate it. But I’m kinda glad I don’t know how they feel … considering my writing style and subject matter.

Do you see writing as a career?

I hope so.

Not having an alarm clock wake me in the morning, making my own schedule, every day being a weekend, and typing whatever nonsense is floating around in my head for money is something I hope I can get paid handsomely to do.

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

I mean well, despite the main characters I wrote in my book.

No. but seriously. My debut novel, Last Chance California, is dark, hilarious, and raw. You’ll laugh, cry, and finish the book with a sense of hope. I think I really captured the sentiment of millennials and the state of our world in Last Chance California.

But then again, I’m bias.

I wanted to write something that challenged people’s perspectives while highlighting the last effects of child abuse. Child abuse is real. And it’s never talked about it. People don’t understand that child abuse doesn’t just end after childhood. Many of us carry that burden of abuse and it’s secrets for our entire lives. Some of us are unable to face the past. Others? It destroys.

It did both to me for a long time.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Writer. Author. Bestseller. Most people throw around these terms for sales or their own ego without considering what the words mean.

A lot of people write, but there aren’t a lot of writers.

I don’t consider myself a writer. At least not yet. I’m hopeful I can get there some day. But who knows?

Title:

Last Chance California

Link:

Description:

Are We All Doomed to Become Our Parents?

Terrified he’s becoming just like his father, Wyatt Lewis, a disillusioned millennial, breaks up with his fiancée to chase his childhood dream – a fresh start in Southern California.

Once in San Diego, Wyatt reunites with an old friend, Summer Harrison, while falling hard for the elusive and free-spirited, Leah Murphy. Summer and Leah show Wyatt a dazzling world littered with lavish speakeasies, egregious drug use, and overpriced cocktails. Surrounded by fake glamor and stuck in a terrible corporate job, Wyatt’s escape turns into his worst nightmare.

Overworked, alone, and filled with regret, the aspiring writer spirals down a self-destructive path that forces him to confront the violent past he ran away to California to forget.

In his raw, hilarious, and dark debut novel, Brian Price showcases our world, on the verge of the COVID-19 pandemic, through the eyes of a sarcastic and stubborn narrator as he attempts to drown his family’s demons.

Title:

Tales From California

Link:

Description:

This short-story collection highlights Brian Price’s writing style while also serving as an introduction to the main characters in his debut novel, Last Chance California.

The collection includes the following tales:

Chicken Nuggets or Bust
It took Wyatt over thirty years to experience In-N-Out Burger. The joint turned out to be a powder keg ready to blow with one missed pickle.

When Wyatt Met Summer
How did Wyatt meet Summer? Well, she isn’t shy about telling the story. that’s for sure.

The California Palm Reading Seduction
Wyatt is struggling in Southern California. He calls out of work and visits a fortune teller for guidance. She invites him over to her mansion for a reading. Things get weird.

Sick and Fired
Wyatt’s job sucks. Thankfully, strep throat allowed him to avoid the office for a few days. But that led to more problems for Wyatt’s career.

Abraham Lincoln: Animal Whisperer
If not for a reincarnated Abe Lincoln, Wyatt Lewis would have killed his dog while flying home for Christmas.

Title:

pandemic woes and lockdown lows

a poetry collection written during Covid-19

Link:

Description:

wake up. make some coffee. watch the news. pack a bowl. freak out. catch a snooze.

Lockdown poetry.
It’s sad.
It’s weird.
It’ll punch you in the heart.

Brian Price’s first poetry collection delves into themes of love, death, depression, inequality, mental health, and self-righteousness. Written entirely during the COVID-19 lockdowns, the works are the thoughts of a millennial questioning himself and the world he lives in.

Title:

Once Upon a Subway

Link:

Description:

The author of Last Chance California, Brian Price tackles toxic love in this modern romance novel.

Years after their passionate, but turbulent relationship ended, two ex-lovers reconnect during a chance encounter on a subway commute. Is their train ride together a second shot at love or a final farewell?

Author Website/Blog:

https://brianvstheworld.com/
December 17, 2021

An Interview with Author Endlyn

I have been writing and telling stories since I was in middle school, getting introduced to the idea from reading a friends first books. For many years my ADHD kept me jumping from project to project.

Last year I deiced to put all my focus into finishing one project and managed to do so. The plan now is to keep the record going with one book a year.

https://www.endlyn.net/

Why do you write?
It’s a lot of fun and I like to figure out new ways to do old things.

What do you write about?
I write any fantasy as long as I find the interesting at the time.

How long have you been writing?
Since I was in middle school though I probably didn’t finish anything till I was in high school.

What writing are you most proud of?
My first book. I have completed short stories but this is the first book I finished.

What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?
My ADHD it’s hard to get motivation sometimes.

What books did you love growing up?
Terry Pratchett discworld series and Robert Asprin Myth-series. i would read them over and over again.

What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?
Marketing, I’m still trying to learn how to do it.

Do you find it hard to share your work?
Finding a location yes, being able to do it no.

Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?
Yes, my mom and sister were the first to read my finished book. Some of my friends were the first to buy it when it became available (they also asked for an autograph lol)

What else do you do, other than write?
Crafts like cross-stitch and knitting, video games, reading manga. I have also been streaming for a few years now.

How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
I start with quick scenes on a watch that sends to my phone. I then move them to google doc and then either on my computer or phone which ever i have.

Do you see writing as a career?
I do, though it takes a lot of work.

Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you?
Living comfortably off my books, paying all the bills on having enough to spend for fun once in a while.

Tell us about your new book? Why did you write it?
It is called “The Cursed Item Merchant”. It is the story about Menda who makes friends with a sentient coat named Calbas. They decide to then find cursed items and find them their perfect host (where the curse will help the host or at least not bother them)
I wanted my first book to be a happy one. this was also just fun to write.

When you are not writing, how do you like to relax?
Reading manga and watching YouTube, or hanging with my rats.

What do you hope people will take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel?
Depends on what I write but for this one happy.

December 17, 2021

An Interview with Author Kossi Afedo

Kossi Afedo

I am 45.
I am a husband and father of 2 children.
I am author and Businessman living in Hamburg Germany.
I love helping people.

Describe yourself in five words 

Impulsive, kind, courageous, a little intelligent but at the same time stubborn

What fact about yourself would really surprise people? 

My love for others. 

How do you work through self-doubts and fear? 

To overcome my fears, I go to the front of things.

I take a deep breath

I have a rule of 4-6-8. I take 4 seconds deep breath, release it out of my mouth 4 seconds. Repeat this for 6 seconds and 8 seconds. I tell myself that everything is fine and I pray.

What scares you the most? 

Losing my mind

What makes you happiest? 

Family, friends and success

Why do you write? 

To help others understand how things work.

Have you always enjoyed writing? 

Yes. That is why I am with you

What motivates you to write? 

Any writer that starts writing to get rich is most often disappointed. No, most writers write because it’s impossible NOT to write. The stories build up in your head and the developed characters come alive and won’t let you rest until you write down what they are telling you.

And I know that everybody has a story which will please someone else. So, I write mine.

What writing are you most proud of? 

I am proud of the book I published right now on amazon.

What are you most proud of in your personal life? 

My family and friends are my first pride

What books did you love growing up? 

The stories in the bible.

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

I grew up in Togo Africa and I am living now in Germany.

How did you develop your writing? 

I like reading other books and get inspiration from them.

What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing? 

Marketing

What marketing works for you? 

It is not that easy to market a book but I have a team of people like you who work hard to let people know about what I am doing. What really works for me is facebook marketing.

Do you find it hard to share your work?

Yes. This is the crucial point that makes most writers doubt.

Is your family supportive? 

Yes. Of course. They are my biggest fans and my main inspiration.

Do your friends support you? 

Yes. Some of them read my books and give me their honest review.

What else do you do, other than write? 

I am a businessman. I sell things online and consult other companies.

What other jobs have you had in your life?

When I was in Africa, to finance my studies, I sold insurance. When I arrived in Germany, to finance my studies and other things, I had worked as a cook’s helper.

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

Business, accounting and marketing.

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

Right here. I like to take advantage of the time that I am in a place. Because I can’t say why I’m here at this time.

Tell us about your family? 

I am a husband and father of two children. I love them above all else.

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

It depends where I am and I have the ideas. Sometimes I use pencil and paper. But most of the time I use a laptop.

How much sleep do you need to be your best?

At least 6-7 hours 

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

Yes. First of all my family, my lovely wife Sitsofe, my children Emefa and David. Also  my brothers in Christ and friends Fojo, Narcisse, Jonathan, Yah-se, Nathalie, Serge, Ingolf, Marcel and Kaka

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

Success for me is when my audience or readers identify with my writing and can’t get rid of my books. Among other things, when the same books hit Amazon’s bestseller list, the same books can help a lot of people and my books will be cited by people for reference.

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

Hum, I am now using Amazon KDP select. I will use fiverr gigs, use banner ads on blogs, use facebook groups, facebook ads etc.

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

My new book “CONVERTING FEARS INTO CONFIDENCE” is an interview exposing the truth about cancer with an expert oncologist and hematologist Dr. Med. Thomas A. Walter. 

When it comes to cancer, how can you segregate FACTS from MYTHS?

It doesn’t help to be bombarded with jargon and medical terms we are not familiar with.

With all the available information online, it can be confusing and stressful, especially for someone ill. 

I, myself, faced cancer in 2013 and dealt with it successfully so I wrote this book or interview to help people that are sick of the disease of cancer and their family who are fighting to find reliable information online to get rid of the fears they are having and gain confidence.

This is my goal.

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

Hum, I never think about this before so I’ll give you the answer next time

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

Reading, enjoying playing with family and friends, watching movies and traveling.

What do you hope people will take away from your writing?

To get rid of the fears of cancer and gain confidence in this 21st century.

How will your words make them feel? 

They will change their perspective on how they view it as a fatal disease and in fact listed as one of the leading causes of death in the world.

December 8, 2021

An Interview with Author Bo Bennett

Bo Bennett

Bo was born in Connecticut where he lived until he was 21. He attended Bryant University where he paid his own way through by running a promotional business while also serving as a Resident Assistant.

At age 13, Bo started studying the martial arts. By Age 18, he earned his first degree black belt in Shaolin Kempo Karate. Since his first black belt, he has also earned a second degree black belt in Tae-Kwon-Do and continues to study several different styles. He is also passionate health and fitness.

Right after graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Bo moved to Boulder, Colorado where after just five months, realized the “Rocky Mountain High” wasn’t for him. Missing his family, he moved back to Connecticut.

In 1994, Bo met his wife-to-be, Kim, at the bar “Archie Moore’s,” which is where they got the name for their first dog, Archie, which is where he got the name for his business. Bo and Kim moved to Boston, Massachusetts shortly after they met, got married, and been living in the Boston area happily ever since, with their dog, and two children.

For updates on Bo’s latest projects, visit BoBennett.com.

1. Why did you write the book? What was your motivation behind it?

I wrote this book because I noticed a disturbing trend: a vocal minority started to have tremendous influence over both individuals, our institutions, and businesses. This group deemed themselves the arbiters of political correctness and social justice. To even question these people is social and professional suicide. Even our academic institutions have swept aside the scientific method and scholarly debate in fear of the repercussions for disagreeing with these false gods and their rhetoric. The “uncomfortable idea” that the critical thinking community used to relish has now become the idea that should not be questioned—at least not publicly. This is a major societal problem that needs to be solved.

2. Who do you see as your main audience for this book and what do you hope they will get from reading your book?

This is the ironic part, or perhaps the challenge that I have as the author. The book does not cater to any one ideology. The political left and right will find things they agree with as well as things they disagree with. The religious and non-religious will be offended. Those with conservative values and more progressive values will be upset by something in this book. The question is, can the readers suspend their ideological zeal in favor of reason?

3. Why do you think you are the right person to write this book? How do you think your qualifications or experience make this a better book?

I have a PhD in social psychology. Although what we see happening with facts being denied and non-dangerous opposing views being silenced can be explained by multiple disciplinaries, social psychology offers the greatest insight, as well as solutions. Plus, I am generally indifferent about these topics, which allows my reason to prevail where others who are passionate about these topics allow their emotions to interfere with reason, leading to poor conclusions.

4. Did you ever consider writing under a pseudonym?

No. I am not embarrassed nor ashamed about any views I hold, especially the ideas I write about in this book. I don’t even share my views on the topics—I simply present the arguments that many people are afraid to present. Many of these arguments I don’t agree with, but I do present them.

5. Were there any topics you left out of the book because you were afraid of the consequences?

Yes and no. I wrote the first edition back in 2016 before the U.S. presidential election. I wrote an article about no matter who wins, we should support him or her (Trump was running against Clinton). After Trump won, I was so turned off by his behavior and his apparent disregard for honesty, that I removed the article from the book. Then about a year later, I put the article back in, realizing that what I wrote did not mean we need to agree with whoever is in office; just that we need to give the a fair shot, and avoid buying into the media rhetoric.

6. The book’s latest edition has just been published in November of 2021, five years after the first edition. Have you received any blowback from writing about such controversial and taboo topics?

I get the occasional “unfriending,” nasty comment, and one-star rating on my book because I offended someone. The university where I used to teach as an adjunct professor never invited me back. I can’t be sure it was because of this book, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it were.

December 8, 2021

An Interview with Susan Laubach 

Susan Laubach

Susan Laubach, PhD has had a distinguished career as an author, playwright, actress and educator. She has written nine books, including The Whole Kitt & Caboodle: A Painless Journey to Investment Enlightenment, which was called “the best basic book on investing available” by the National Association of Investment Clubs, and endorsed by Economics America, as well as the National Council on Economic Education. Her plays have been performed throughout the Northeast, including at venues such as Women at Work, MamaDrama, and EAT’s Sola Voce Festival. As a member of the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA), Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), the League of Professional Theatre Women (LTTW), and Dramatists Guild Fund treasurer and board member, she has appeared in many plays, television and film. She has also been a popular guest on CNN-FM and CNBC’s Morning Business Show, and The Money Club.

A mother of five children, including two sets of twins, she later rose through the ranks to become the first female vice president at the oldest investment bank in the U.S., Alex, Brown & Sons – but not before her fifteen-year stint teaching investing to over a thousand students. She earned her doctorate from the University of Virginia, and later taught at the College of Notre Dame.

1. Why did you write the book? What was your motivation behind it?

I wrote the book as a series of cautionary tales because I saw a great need for them among potential and even long-time investors. My motivation was to address that need in a way that would encourage confidence and enable readers to remember the “rules” because of the story structure.

2. Who do you see as your main audience for this book and what do you hope they will get from reading your book?

My main audience is the cohort of folks who want to invest but aren’t sure if they should. This includes people who find themselves with money from an inheritance or divorce but are scared to get started investing for fear of losing $$. as well as all Gens, X, Y, Z who think trading or penny stocks will make them rich overnight. Wrong.

3. How do you see this book being relevant today?

With so many opportunities to lose money in flaky securities or overpriced securities, this book is more relevant than ever. It is, however, “wintergreen” in that the “rules” will never be irrelevant.

4. Why do you think you the right person to write this book? How do you think your qualifications or experience make this a better book?

Because of my many years as a stockbroker and simultaneously, nearly as many as an investment educator, I saw too many instances of investors failing to ask the pertinent questions (“what can go wrong?” “Is this price too high,” etc.) because they didn’t know the questions to ask. Consider me an investor’s advocate, arming readers with the most basic of ways to build confidence and knowledge about the Stockmarket. Being both an author and a playwright, I’m uniquely qualified to write readable and memorable stories which I hope will also amuse.

5. How did you come up with the idea for the book?

I came up with the idea for this book because I wanted a way for readers to remember these important “rules” and embedding them in re-told fairy tales seemed an effective way to do this.

6. Can you share a little bit about the process of writing the book? Did you keep writing once you sat down?

Once I hit on the idea of embedding investment rules in silly fairy tales, it was challenging and fun to match the rules with appropriate stories. Having been a teacher of Creative Dramatics, I also felt that kids would have a good time while learning important investment lessons if they acted out each story. This enabled me to make sure each “rules’” story had plenty of action. And yes, once I saw down, I kept on writing. No blogging and no writers’ block.

December 3, 2021

An Interview with Sybrina Durant

Sybrina Durant

Hi! I’m Sybrina. . .. . .Just one of millions of wannabe author/singer/songwriters out there but I hope, after reading or hearing my books and songs, you’ll think my contributions to the world have as much value as any other famous artist out there today.

Fame is all in being in the right place at the right time but at least with the internet and venues like this, all of us have opportunities to share our creativity with the world. I’m so happy that I am able to share my works with you. That is awesome!

The books I’ve written span a wide range between illustrated picture books, coloring books and YA novels to technical and how-to books. If you’re so inclined you can read a little bit about the inspiration for each one here. Enjoy!

1. Whats the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?
I wish I could ge into Sybrina’s head and live in her world is one of the most memorable things a reader has ever said about one of my books. It was a unicorn fantasy novel so it was pretty colorful. 

2. How long does it take to write a book?
There are many factors to consider in answering that question. An entire book idea can come in a flash or in a dream and writing the first draft can be pretty quick. But if you’re writing a picture book, you have to remember that good illustrations take a lot of time so you could be waiting months after you finished your writing before you have the final art work. Also, when writing a novel, the edits consume way more time than you ever possibly imagine when you flashed out that first draft. 

3. What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?
Getting published is easy…you have to do it yourself these days because there is so much competition out there that trying to get noticed by a traditional publisher is like trying to find the proverbial needle in a haystack. There are many self-publishing avenues available so that makes it easy. Writing, is easy for me as well, though it might not be for everyone. That one is subjective. Marketing is the hardest and frankly for me, the most fun part of the whole enterprise. In fact, I now consider myself an authorpreneur rather than just a writer. One of my ways to market is to start an online bookstore and gift shop for every type of book that I write. I became an Amazon affiliate so that I could easily create stores and find suitable products to offer. For instance, my Learn To Tie With The Rabbit and The Fox book series has a store featuring learn to tie books, fox books, rabbit books and manual dexte rity books and games by lots of other authors. My basic philosophy is if you can’t beat them, join them. 

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

I’ve been writing the Learn To Tie With The Rabbit and The Fox seriies of books for 30 years. I started out with a little book to teach how to tie a neck tie. Six books later, I’ve finally finished Boo’s Shoes, a story that teaches tying shoelaces in a fun way. It’s about a little bunny who doesn’t think he needs to learn how to tie his shoelaces because he has slip ons, pull ons and velcro fastened shoes for every activity that he loves. His friend Farah fox comes along and shows him that there are many reasons to learn to lace and tie up knots in ropes and strings. Her excitement and belief in his abilities encourages him to learn a new skill. 

December 3, 2021

Author Interview with M.J. Krem

Image

I am an up-and-coming author who just released my first book entitled Heart of Gold on Amazon. I love animals and have a saltwater fish tank. I am a laid-back girl just trying to bring happiness to others with my writing and maybe teach people a few things along the way. I am an advocate for human rights, BLM, LGBTQ+ and will always try to do my best to help in this world when human rights are involved.

Where are you from?

I am from Phoenix, Arizona

Why do you write? 

I write for many reasons, the first of which is that I just really enjoy it. I also really like creating poems, short stories and things that bring others joy. It’s probably very similar to when you cook something and get to see people or hear about how people enjoyed it, it warms my heart.

What do you write about?

I try to write about several different topics, my new book is about PTSD and mental health, I also have poems about coping and healing as well. But I’m a sucker for love poems, and stories about underdogs that overcome the odds.

Do you have a specific writing style?

My writing style is probably pretty weird to most people, I just kinda sit down and right. I let my creativity flow and then format and edit after, which while I am writing is great, but the future me that edits it is never happy about it.

What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? 

I think like most people today, having time and money. Our bills, responsibilities and just life make it hard to sit down and do the things that make us happy let alone having the ability to actually chase their dream. So having the ability to be able to have the extra time to write is challenging sometimes.

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

I think it has to be the simple thing of having people let me know it made them smile or brought them joy.

How long have you been writing?

I have been writing poetry on and off since high school, however I started my Indy author journey about two and a half yours ago.

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

I wanted to become a writer at a young age, as early as I can remember. I also had problems sleeping, so I would create stories in my head to entertain myself. I will admit it was never a main job choice, but I also had the dream of writing a book.

What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

I can right as the mood strikes me, I found out early on that forcing myself to write lead to unimaginative boring works. That being said I tend to write more late at night like after 11PM and can sometimes go until 5AM the next morning.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I like to listen to music when I work, this sometimes makes me get up and dance when a good song comes on. I try to keep my spirits in a happy creative place, so I try to have fun with it.

How long does it take to write a book?

My newly released book took me a little over 2 years, that did include several breaks where I worked on other things and also got too busy with work and life to focus on it.

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

Take feedback and run with it, not all feedback you get will be good. However, if your audience is telling you to work on something work on it. Get that feedback its scary, I remember always fearing showing anyone my work. Later in life though I learned from Ms. Brene Brown, that you have to get into the arena of life and take chance and be vulnerable to truly grow as a person and to achieve your dreams. That vulnerability is what allows you to fail, learn, grow and the opportunity allows you to succeed.

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

I always try to create a story that not only is interesting to read but has a message in it too. I grew up in the millennial generation, we had cartoons that taught you lessons and values. I got to see Mr. Rodgers teach us about being kind and so many other things. That inspired me to try and do the same thing with my work, and that’s the challenge being entertaining and informative you gotta try and stay away from being preachy and try to not ruin your message by glossing over it by focusing too much on entertainment.

What do you think makes a good story?

Something that makes you want to come back to it, that hook that makes you go, I gotta see what happens next. I think that we’ve all stayed up way past our bedtimes and both children and adults watching a TV show. Those late-night Netflix binges that make you need an extra strong iced coffee the next morning while you try not to fall asleep in a meeting.

What does your family think of your writing? 

They always encouraged my writing, However I was very private and protective over my work for a long time, so they probably didn’t know till recently that I wrote.

Do you see writing as a career?

I really hope I can make a living off writing; I don’t need to be a rich author or anything like that. I do want to have the ability to be my own boss that writing brings. I want to be able to spend time with my family, my boyfriend and try to do some good things in the world and time is a very valuable resource for that.

Do you have anything specific you would like to tell the readers?

Yes, I would urge anyone in need of help to go and get it. The social stigma alone can scare many people away, especially men as the very wrong perception of it makes it seem like they are weak for getting help. I believe however, it is strong to get help not weak. Mental health is very important, and you need to heal from mental trauma just like physical trauma. The bottom line is, go get help if you need it. That is way I included resources in my book and will continue to always do that. There is a page dedicated to the to resources for those who need in the back of my book. Phone numbers for people to call for several different issues, hopefully by doing that it helps at least one person.

Link to my Patreon for more content including free content: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=62717929

November 18, 2021

Book Review: Disasters To Dreams: A Gritty Guide to Finding Success In The Face Of Failure

Fired, robbed, divorced, and with two businesses down the drain, Chris Patrick was stuck on a one-way street of screwups and failures.The life he was leading wasn’t what he wanted—but sometimes, not getting what you want is exactly what you need.Disaster to Dreams is the story of one man’s biggest catastrophes and greatest comebacks, but it’s also a story that demonstrates how amazing opportunities lie just on the other side of adversity—if you’re willing to do the dirty work and dig through defeat. Refreshingly candid, this tough-love and unfiltered self-improvement guide will motivate you to transform stress into stability, train wrecks into trophies, and disasters into dreams.You’ll discover:The ultimate personal growth mindset to help you create your own rules and master life-changing manifestation.Interviews with entrepreneurs, full of inspiration to help you power through any obstacle.How to swallow your “bad” pride and ask people for help—because sometimes finding your purpose takes some hand-holding.Self-reflection exercises to unearth the seeds to future success in the dirt of your past.A step-by-step business-booming process that can improve your subpar enterprise into a prosperous empire.Build triumph on the foundation of failure. No path is a dead end, no matter how epic your mess of defeat. Get Disasters to Dreams and prepare for a path of limitless opportunity in your perfect storm of success!

Review:

Rating: 4 out of 5.

I loved the honest sharing of the author in this book, detailing out his experiences and how he rose from all the struggles life threw his way. From having a bad father, to finding a great father figure and losing dear ones (including relationships), the author has detailed out very clearly what went wrong in his life and how he strived through it. We also get to see how his family stood by his side when he was falsely accused of rape. As the story develops, we see how Chris developed love for entrepreneurship, how he failed in some his ventures before finding success. We could also learn from his multiple relationships before he found his wife, and the lessons behind the struggles to conceive a child.

I particularly like the way the book is written with multiple short interviews with successful people, and there is an element of surprise in one of the interviews as well. Each chapter is accompanied by a “What About You” section to help us readers reflect on our life as well – and I thought this format is similar to Evan Carmichael’s book “Built to Serve”. I also got a feeling of reading Mark Manson’s book with the use of sh*t throughout the book. But other than that, I really think any entrepreneur would enjoy reading this book, as we all can related to most of the lessons conveyed in this book.

I also liked how he suggest to find a tribe or community for support as this is what I am particularly trying to do in my life right now. If you doubt the law of attraction, you may want to give this book a read.

November 17, 2021

Author Interview with Chris Patrick

Chris Patrick is a real estate consultant and founder of The Patrick Group, a premier real estate firm in Las Vegas. With over $100 million sold since 2013, he was named in the top 1% for all Las Vegas Realtors and the number one top producer for Signature Real Estate Group. Previously, he owned three successful businesses and spent 15 satisfying years in sales, marketing, and customer service.

A hard-partying snowboard bum turned successful businessman, Chris’s rise to success was hard-earned and well-deserved. From a young age, he faced adversity as the son of an abusive father in a struggling family. At age 12, he was wrongly accused of and arrested for a horrible crime that destroyed his reputation, leaving him to deal with the trauma in the aftermath of the accusation. Through trials and tribulations, Chris persevered despite setbacks on the road to his eventual success, such as business failures, loss, and heartbreak. He hopes to inspire others to see the opportunity within their own failures, rather than shame and defeat, and overcome their serious hardships, traumatic events, or struggles in order to live their absolute best lives.

Chris currently lives in Las Vegas with his wife Erin, daughter Jameson, and three dogs. Learn more at chrispatrick.net.

Where are you from?

I’m originally from the Bay Area California, then spent 10 years in Colorado snowboarding and I currently live in Las Vegas Nevada.

Why do you write?

I love expressing myself through the written word and find it to be not only a great artistic outlet but a fantastic way to help others.

What do you write about?

Life. I think I have a pretty unique perspective, having gone through some of things I’ve gone

through, and I believe I have valuable information and insight to share with the world. Plus, I like to laugh at my own jokes.

Do you have a specific writing style?

I write in a very conversational tone, like two friends talking over a couple of beers (and shots) at the bar. I’m not opposed to dropping a few expletives if it helps to make a point either, but that’s what friends do!

What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?

Time, mostly. My wife and I have a new baby daughter that we really love spending time with so I have to set aside time specifically for writing.

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

I’m so grateful and blessed that I have been able to have a positive impact on people’s lives. I get a lot of notes, messages and emails telling me how people have made significant

improvements in their lives after reading some of my work. It’s very humbling to say the least.

How long have you been writing?

Disasters To Dreams took about one solid year to write, so about that long professionally.

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

My wife and I had just attended a Mike Dooley event in Reno and we got back to the hotel that night and started talking about manifesting our dreams. We somehow got on the subject of writing a book since one of Mike Dooley’s books, Infinite Possibilities, had really inspired me years earlier. I was telling her about some of the crazy things that had happened to me during my life and she said ‘you should write a book about that’.

What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

For me, inspiration comes in waves and I try to capitalize on it when it’s high tide. It doesn’t

always work out that way, but in an ideal world I would sit at the computer and write whenever the ideas start coming. Sometimes that happens at 2 in the morning.

Disasters To Dreams: A Gritty Guide to Finding Success In The Face Of Failure: Patrick, Chris: 9780578954547: Amazon.com: Books

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I guess I’m a ‘seat of your pants’ writer in that I’ll start with a general concept but not really have any idea where it’ll end up. I just kind of go with the flow so to speak. I find it more enjoyable than drafting an outline like many writers do. It seems to come more naturally that way for me.

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

Just write. No matter how bad it is, just start. It seems like a no brainer but the only way you get good at something is to keep doing it.

What do you think makes a good story?

I feel that to make an interesting story and a great read you have to keep the reader in mind

first. Make it about them. Of course you also have to have a hero that your readers can relate to, and you have to make the reader care about what happens to the hero.

What does your family think of your writing?

My family has been very supportive of my writing, my amazing wife in particular. She basically held the household together for us while I was off doing my thing during the writing of Disasters To Dreams. I definitely couldn’t have done it without her.

Do you see writing as a career?

Absolutely! It’s important that we all chase our dreams and being a great writer is something I’ve thought about for a long time.

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

Yes, I’ve learned over the years that everyone has the same incredible powers at their disposal. I’ve learned that even if you don’t know why something happened to you at that time, eventually you will. I’ve also learned that nobody’s life has been perfect, and that’s a good thing. And no matter where you find yourself right now, you have it within you to live the life you really want.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

As soon as Disasters To Dreams launched on 10/21/21.

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

Absolutely! Readers can visit my website here where they can read the latest blogs, connect

with me on social media and I even have a free download available now: FROM ROADBLOCK TO ROCK STAR – Smash the 10 Mental Roadblocks Holding You Back from Rockstar Status

Home