It’s a priceless feeling to get special attention from readers and other authors. Knowing this, IBP has decided to publicize authors under the author spotlight category. Check out who the ‘author of the week’ is, connect with them and enhance your marketing strategies.
Dr. Christopher Jones is an author that loves to read most of the time self-help, motivation, and technology-themed books. Dr. Jones has written many successful self-help books such as insight of perseverance and word to the wise that showed what can be achieved by anyone. Dr. Jones has come out of his shell and brought his knowledge and love of technology to the new fiction book SIMULATION – Intelligence is no longer artificial a tale of a societal cleansing by a tyrannical computer system is not only a riveting story of things to come.
Writing has always been a passion of mine I started with an autobiography then moved to self-help and I think I found my calling in fiction.
What do you write about?
I am actual all over the map I have written 2 self help books a children’s book and how I am on fiction.
Do you have a specific writing style?
Everything should flow and I write when I am at my best when there is no stress and my mind is free form distractions. Some may ask so you never write but I find time here and there to unplug.
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?
Time is always an obstacle if you do not make time for your story it will never come true.
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?
This was from my autobiography I had a lot of questions about me being an albino and about my vision impairment and if it affects me in my day to day life as well as writing.
How long have you been writing?
I have been writing for about 8 years now not publishing each year but that was the start of my writing journey.
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
I have never been a heavy writer but when I started my autobiography I wanted to tell a story about my struggles in life and form there I started this writing career. I say I realized this when I stared to get real feedback from my readers letting me know that my work helped them in some way.
What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
Everything should flow and I write when I am at my best when there is no stress and my mind is free form distractions. Some may ask so you never write but I find time here and there to unplug.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I love to create things that are immersive such as music artwork or websites that draw not only the reader into the story but myself.
How long does it take to write a book? (if you’ve written one -published or non)
This depends on what type of book most of my books take about a year form start to finish and when it comes to fiction books it can take longer for character buildup.
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?
Becoming a better writer is not what others think about your writing it’s about doing something that you love. Never write just to sell books write to bring stories to life.
What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story?
Since this was my first fiction book there was a slight challenge to make sure that I create characters that relate to present day as much as posable.
What do you think makes a good story?
Anything that sucks the reader into the story and have them, wanting more and to never put the book down. This is also a double edge sword because readers will always want more if the story is good.
What does your family think of your writing?
They love it but never knew I had it in me to venture off into a fictional world that was so vibrant.
Do you see writing as a career?
Yes at first I wanted to stick with nonfiction but I think my calling is fiction.
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?
I want the readers to thing deep about the stories I tell everything has a meaning and something to take from it every book I write I make sure that I am relaying a message.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I have never been a heavy writer but when I started my autobiography I wanted to tell a story about my struggles in life and form there I started this writing career.
Julia George Born in May 22nd yr84″ Is a Asian American who is an American Citizen and the Author of the book Amala – A Life On Lockdown. She lives in Los Angeles, in a boring town known as Lomita. Loves India and the rich heritage and cultures and vibes of India. A struggling artist, the authors identity is compromised by many other Julia George combo’s She is a Actor/ Singer/ Choreographer and now a Author. She has done three International Films So far. She wrote this first book in a span of 7 hours. So is requesting all fellow author come proofreader fanatics out there lay Their proof reading skills down and have fun and enjoy the story. Readers will surely know why the book is scripted the way it is, when they actually read through the book. Hope you enjoy my first attempt and Someday hoping that Amala- A life on Lockdown will be featured as a world famous film.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am a certified trained meditation practitioner, and I have attained a masters in women’s health. That is why it is well assured that meditation works and is a tried and tested option for holistic healing, and it became an option to be shared with all individuals who need it the most.
There is a google play app the author is launching with her team, which focuses on meditation. Keep in touch with the author through her website and the social media links attached at the end of this post.
What is the connection between meditation and healing?
The importance of Meditation to heal was clearly evident to me with the present situations all have been affected with. Just because all have been affected with the severity of the pandemic, would we send all to psychiatrists and help them all with psych meds? Or can we show them a way to heal inside out? Meditation does just that. Especially when you don’t have another option to focus on.
Who do you particularly target to help and why?
Many get cheated by a spouse or family members into psychiatry and other illness aspects. They will provoke situations where one will react and use that as an evidence to screw their life up. It all started with my fiction book Amala: A life on lockdown. I was busy promoting that and a few responses to the book got me thinking. I realized many women behind closed doors of marriage are going through the same issues of life. So even if you save the women going through such issues, what will one do? Life here in California, there are homes for women who have been through domestic violence, once a woman tries to own up she is abused. All these shelter homes are associated with psychiatrist for assessments, at the end of the day whether the women decides to go-ahead with help from the domestic violence help canter’s or not, it does not matter, even without the knowledge of the women she will be assessed by a psychiatrist, who will diagnose her.
This is the sad truth of every abused women, they end up becoming statistics for psychiatry, this was one issue already setting in as something what needs focus on, when several men and women start having social melt downs because of the pandemic Covid-19 situations. That is when meditation showed up as an option to be shared. Not just for abused women, but for all those who don’t want to just turn into mere statistics in real life just because their spouse, sibling or someone who is a friend or family hates you or wants to use the worst prank in your life…..
What can the victims to do heal themselves?
Instead select an option of self-healing where you and only you are in control, the main key aspect of meditation is to forgive, not asking to embrace the abuser or the bad things what have happened but to find a way to accept, which is extremely essential to heal, for once, as a learning curve in your life. Once that sets in, then stay away from the negative, accept the things you cannot change. Once this aspect is taken care of, then the next part is start a process of meditation that suits ones daily routine. The harmony of chakras and the pressure point of your hands and legs which will all help in the inner healing and meditation.
Meditation To Heal
Why do you think the holistic approaches are not used as much as they are supposed to?
The option of meditation and all other holistic approaches have always been there, but the present generation of teenagers, have never been able to embrace such options. They are unknowingly lead only to the option of psychiatry. My job is to find a way to help abused women and many others who are perplexed in the present times. Please don’t think a religion should be a barrier to accepting meditation. Just look at it this way, no matter what your faith is, you can get cheated into psychiatric diagnosis and meds even without your own knowledge. Then, why won’t one take meditation and self-heal and rebuild your strength on one’s self decision? Liver and kidneys and lungs are equally harmed by medications as much as alcohol and smoking. So is to say about eating habits which also simultaneously reflect on what a person feels and how they react to life situations. A person who drinks cold milk and a person who drinks hot coffee react differently to one similar situation if put in, just a analytic aspect but as I mentioned, it is essential to understand that it takes one person to look at healing oneself inside out holistically approach meditation. Not for the mere healing aspect of life.
Lisa K. Stephenson of The Bronx, New York is the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Kombination Kouture Company, a commerce through it’s many divisions and subsidiaries have begun to make its way into the lives and hearts of many.
Ms. Stephenson is a native of The Bronx, New York. As the daughter of a single parent and from a family immersed in African-American studies, she determined early on that education, independence and equal justice were important for all women and men of color. Her educational development began as a student at Monroe College of New Rochelle where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice with honors. Lisa is now an author, motivational speaker, entrepreneur and philanthropist.
Professionally, Lisa owns and manages the following companies and subsidiaries, Kombination Kouture LLC, She’s SINGLE Magazine and Wilson Book Group as well as authoring and touring novels such as The Yellow Brownstone and Even My Hair Is Mad. Her latest self-help book entitled: Love Smart, Love Independently is set to release Fall 2020. In the interim, Lisa has begun conducting workshops, seminars and hosting podcasts where she delivers a powerful message to women, How to Have it All: Independence and Healthy Intimacy.
The idea of becoming an entrepreneur came to Lisa when she discovered that many women do not have the privilege of creating generational wealth for the families they raise. Lisa wishes to change this. She has also served time in the United States Army where she learned the importance of discipline, time and self-regulation.
Ms. Stephenson possesses a vast amount of experience as a leader, speaker, writer and business consultant leading numerous successful business campaigns and book tours. She has several years of active membership and involvement in many civic and community organizations. Lisa currently resides in The Bronx, New York.
Where are you from?
I was born and partially raised in The Bronx, NY. I also spent some time growing up in both Boston and Maryland.
Why do you write?
When I first began writing it was because I had such amazing ideas and I really wanted to get them out, now, it’s mainly to escape from my own reality. The female characters I write about, they live a life without boundaries or worry, they live a life where men cater to them and so, I am living vicariously through them.
What do you write about?
I mainly write about women who find themselves in tumultuous relationships or unbalanced playing fields when it comes to their lives. There is always some internal conflict they need to overcome whether it is jealousy, low self-esteem, co-dependency or just lack of knowledge for particular situations they may find themselves in. However, they always bounce back, learn from their mistakes and find happiness.
Do you have a specific writing style?
I have various writing styles since I’ve written so many different genres: narrative, creative non-fiction as found in She’s SINGLE Magazine and of course expository since I have been working on a self-help book as well entitled: [Love Smart, Love Independently] published by Wilson Book Group.
Get the book on Amazon
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?
For me personally it lands about 75% through the book where I begin working on the falling action, I tend to get bored lol. I think that’s the only part of writing I am not too fond of. I typically dislike anything that I deem predictable, like comedy movies, I do not watch because the end is always the same in a sense. So, with my falling action/resolution I try to keep it spunky otherwise to avoid that feeling of boredom. That’s one of my obstacles, another is of course writers block. I am not one to cheat my fans EVER! I once read a book where the ending was so rushed, I was so angry afterward. But I continued it because momma ain’t raise no quitter. With my novels I like to take my time even if that means I’m going to miss my deadline.
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?
“Why was Nova so mean to Hunter when he was a good guy that liked her?” I had to explain that my character did not reject Hunter because she deemed him unattractive or him having a dull personality, she did what I feel rightfully so many women should be doing if they ever find themselves in Nova’s shoes. Nova [Even My Hair Is Mad] made the decision NOT to rebound with hunter, she was newly divorced, trying to rebuild her life, find her independence and build a foundation for her and her son. If anything, she did Hunter a favor by not roping him into her life as she was still trying to figure things out.
How long have you been writing?
I have been writing since I was a sophomore in college. I wrote this short story [Niki] for a class assignment—it was about a 15-year-old girl who began having an affair with her father—my professor liked the story so much he first asked, “Do you need to go to counseling?” one day after class let out. I was so confused, of course, he thought the little girl I had written about was myself lol. How silly. Any who, once he realized that wasn’t the case, he praised me heavily for my writing skills asking if he may use my story as an example for his other classes. I agreed.
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
I was lying in bed in my college dormitory and things around me just seemed strange like it wasn’t happening correctly. Like life was out of bounds. So I remember taking out my blackberry and writing some notes about what was happening around me from the tree branches cracking outdoors to the hard snowflakes slapping against my windows and the curtains vehemently beating against the walls when the wind would subside every few minutes or so…I started writing about Nicholas from [Borderline] shortly thereafter.
What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
Completely indulged in the evenings, about 6pm-10pm and sometimes longer depending on how engulfed I am with the story of a particular character. I once wrote all night because while writing about Irving being saved from his abusive household by Rose from CPS I began to weep. I had to keep going, my mind was thinking of the next scene faster than I could type. I didn’t want to end up losing my train of thought.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I pull character inspiration for all of my male characters from every man I’ve ever dated or had an intimate relationship in my life. Lol I am the author Taylor Swift.
How long does it take to write a book? (if you’ve written one -published or non)
It depends, I’ve once written 3 books in 4 months and then another book took me 2 years. So it honestly just depends on how I am feeling at the time and what is going on in my life.
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?
I do. I think it’s important for writers to see the world through a different pair of lenses. Others see the world one way, straight forward, actionable, dramatic etc. While as a writer you have to see the world differently because your job is taking someone from their reality and have them encompassed in the life of a character you’re building. Readers want to escape, yet they want to relate, they want a positive outcome so that they may feel that there is a light at the end of the tunnel even if for them…there isn’t. Excellent writing comes from having an open mind, being a visionary, traveling, someone with patience and the ability to be versatile. Also, you have to read other books!
What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story?
Wrapping it up. I’ve gotten some bad reviews about my endings not being happy. Um, I try to be as realistic as possible and sometimes it’s part one to the story they’re reading. I think it’s important to leave people wanting more and helping them to understand that life is a marathon, not a sprint. To really feel drawn to a character and emotionally invested into a character you can’t just meet them once. I like when my readers look forward to the character development, the positive progression of my characters throughout their journey.
What do you think makes a good story?
A great lesson, a great message. Something with substance.
What does your family think of your writing?
They love it, oh, especially my dad. He’s a proud man that one lol.
Do you see writing as a career?
Absolutely. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be able to invest so heavily into it. Whether that is the creative process or just marketing or investing my time to answer readers’ questions.
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?
DM me lol. Don’t be shy!
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
When I completed [Covenant: The Sister Series Compilation] and so many women wrote me on Instagram to tell me how much they loved the stories, but especially enjoyed the one in the end, [Oxygen]. I documented the toxic relationship I had with my ex through two fictional characters who were named Kayla and Kara. I purposely named the women with the first letter (K) like the daughter my ex had when he cheated on me to make her. I knew in that moment I was a writer; I knew I had found my therapy, my outlet and a way to help women not to make the same mistakes I did.
Leslie C. Graham, born 14 June 1962, is an American author who writes fiction short ebooks, and he is best known for his latest book The Protector. The book follows the adventure of head surgeon Dr Michael Fitzpatrick who investigates a terrorist organization.
Where are you from? Louisville kentucky
Why do you write? I have a good imagination
What do you write about? The book is call the protector it is about Dr. Michael Fitzpatrick a head surgeon at a hospital after one night his life is thrown into turmoil when a patient is rush into the ER with symptoms of a unknown virus, his investigation pulled him into a deadly terrorist organization encounter.
Do you have a specific writing style? Yes, I write the scene first then the story
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? Keeping focus
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work? My book kept the reader wanted more
How long have you been writing? 4 years
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer? When I was in middle school
What is your work schedule like when you are writing? I write best at night when everyone at my house is sleep
How long does it take to write a book? 2 months
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer? Read other books and have a good imagination
What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story? Making sure the story run smooth together
What do you think makes a good story? When you start reading the story it pulled you in
Do you see writing as a career? Yes
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers? Check out my book the protector by leslie graham on amazon
After completing her tertiary studies and an early career in mining, Chandra became Group General Manager of an AUD$140m, 400-person distribution business at the age of 28. Continuing to climb the ranks of the corporate world, she went on to lead a global psychology and neuroscience-based consultancy firm. Turning entrepreneur in 2013, she established One Legacy Pty Ltd, which consults to companies on leadership excellence, turnaround strategy, improving human performance, innovation, and organizational change.
Chandra has worked across 28 countries, nine languages, ten industries, and has spoken on more than 90 stages around the globe. Chandra is the 2014 Gold Stevie Woman of the Year for Australia, the 2014 Silver Stevie International Executive of the Year, holds a 2013 Gold Stevie for Female Entrepreneur of the Year (Asia, Australia, and New Zealand), a Silver Stevie for International Woman of the Year, a 2013 Silver Stevie for Most Innovative Company for One Legacy and a 2013 Bronze Stevie for Women Helping Women. She was inducted into the Australian Businesswomen’s Hall of Fame in 2014. In 2013 she was named the Newcastle University Young Alumni Medalist for her work across the globe.
Chandra won the Gold Stevie Award for Best Female Executive (Asia, Australia & New Zealand) in 2012, a Bronze Stevie Award for Best Management Team in 2012, a Gold Stevie for Most Innovative Company for Sentis in 2012, and the marie claire Australian Young Business Woman of the Year Award in 2012. Chandra also holds an Australia Day Young Citizen Award for her community and charitable contributions.
Chandra holds a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Business (Human Resources and Industrial Relations), and a Bachelor of Commerce. She has been a Non-Executive Director on two Boards, supported numerous charities across the globe, and was recognized with a Miss Australia Award of Excellence in 1998. She is regarded as an engaging Master of Ceremonies and Key-Note Speaker having fulfilled such roles for more than 40 largescale not-for-profit and corporate functions. However, perhaps her greatest passion and love is found in her role as a mum. Turning author in 2020, Chandra has loved the publishing journey alongside her daughter, Tara, who is the illustrator of her first book, Rona Stole My Fun – The Four Year Old vs The Virus.
Where are you from? The beautiful Gold Coast of Australia.
Why do you write? I have always, always, wanted to. I just never had the time. Social distancing gave me the time suddenly and now my dream of writing a series of “Books for Purpose” is coming true. And with each book, I am just so happy that I have finally done this. I believe my books can change lives and that gives me a feeling I cannot put into words. It makes all the mistakes, all the study, all the global travel, all the late nights, all the issues, all the roadblocks in my career, all lead to this point. And I’m very grateful.
What do you write about? The overarching banner is to write “Books for Purpose”. At present I am writing a series of six books targeting the impact of coronavirus on different groups of people and trying to alleviate the associated issues. However, I have another couple in the pipeline that have been lifelong goals which relate to women’s empowerment and self-esteem, domestic violence, and leadership. I have released two of the coronavirus books so far, with a third due out next week.
Do you have a specific writing style? I prefer expressive and humor filled, colloquial style work but with some of my upcoming pieces, I will showcase my serious and touching format of writing. I want to move people and make them feel like it is just them and the character in the room, and not another care in the world. I want people to feel they are being heard and seen through the books. I have always been a very emotional person who feels others pain and I wanted to tap into that and use that for the benefit of others. I have been a trainer and an executive coach for a long period of my life and so I am relying on my many years on the stage and traveling the globe writing training and coaching material, and putting this in to my books so everyone can access the information in a much more economical fashion.
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? I have a two-year-old and a four-year-old ha ha. Trying to write with the chaos of little people around calls on a whole new level of talent ha ha. It is hard not having time to think but I do leverage the late hours of the night to find that space I need to write. I want to show mums it can be done, even with young ones around demanding your constant attention. My kids are my world so writing will always come second.
Whats the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work? I received an email recently from a grandmother who wrote of the impact my first book (which is totally illustrated by my four-year-old daughter Tara) has had on her family. It is called Rona Stole My Fun : The Four Year Old Vs The Virus and is a book about social distancing and working from home through the eyes of a four-year-old. It was designed to help little people feel safe that their fun would not be lost and that everything would be ok. The grandmother wrote that the book brought her family together across Australia and America despite Covid 19 and made them feel like they weren’t missing out on family time. It thanked my daughter extensively for her beautiful pictures and went on to say that our book has “shared our family with her family”. If we can help make big and little people feel better in this uncertain period of Covid 19 then both Tara and I are absolutely thrilled.
How long have you been writing? Since March 2020
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer? I have always wanted to write ever since high school.
What is your work schedule like when you are writing? It is simply crazy. Picture a two year old on your knee, macaroni cheese everywhere, mummy typing with one hand, a four-year-old wanting you to play lego, an email or two from Ingram Spark or Amazon, a call from a local distributor which you are trying to answer without the two year old saying she needs to do a wee down the phone line and that about sums it up. It is just crazy.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? My choice of words and my ability to convey emotion. As previously indicated, I am a very emotional person so I like to be very expressive and hit the raw nerves that others may avoid. I like to take readers in to space in their minds and to keep them focused on the depth of emotion that they may otherwise ignore within themselves. I like to speak to something really deep in the reader. I like to be real. And I really do care. This isn’t about money. This is about impact.
How long does it take to write a book? (if you’ve written one -published or non) At the moment about two weeks. It is full on.
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer? It would be remiss of me to advise when I am only so new. But what I could say is be raw with your writing and write about whatever makes you come alive.
What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story? Time is a big issue. It has also been literally impossible to get books published with the words Coronavirus or Covid 19 in them up until very recently. Many rejection letters have resulted due to this. Yet I have seen this as a challenge and not an insurmountable obstacle. And we have made it over!!
What do you think makes a good story? That is easy. Connection, purpose and care. If an author really cares about their readers, it has to be a good book doesn’t it? Well I think so anyway.
What does your family think of your writing? My family and my community have been incredibly supportive. I have been blown away by people promoting and buying the book and sending amazing emails and messages of support. My local channel 9 news covered the first book. My local channel 7 news covered the first book. Tara was on the front page of the regional newspaper as an Amazon best seller at age four (best selling illustrator!!- which she actually calls an Imastrator!! So so cute). The local Gold Coast paper is doing a write up on Wednesday of this coming week and That’s Life magazine are covering the first book in an article due out on the 4th June. Tara has been blown away by the attention and support.
Do you see writing as a career? Yes, I guess I do now. It is just making me come alive and feel a sense of real purpose that had perhaps died down in me some time ago. I feel like this is where I was meant to be doing what I was meant to do.
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers? Rona Stole My Grades: A Senior Student’s Story is my second book and it has a real function in the broader community. It is for final year / senior year / year 12 students with concern, anxiety or frustration over what coronavirus has done to their perceived “Most Important Year of School”. It is a self help book disguised as a fiction story and is designed to be read in no more than two hours. It calls on my own experience as a straight A student, Dux/Valedictorian of every school year and the University of Newcastle (Australia) Young Alumni Medalist. I didn’t find my final years of high school very easy and feel for all the students around the globe coping now with not only a very challenging and changing time, but also a time affected by Covid 19. I have written this book after 20 years as a student and executive coach based on the basic neuroscience principles of performance enhancement. It is a performance enhancing tool for any senior year or even any high school student worried about how to achieve the best grades and find the best version of themselves. I am very passionate about this book after reading of a UK student who committed suicide after feeling overwhelmed from the impact of Covid 19 on his already stressful teenage life.
When did you first consider yourself a writer? Im not sure I do yet but Im getting there. Maybe after another four or so books.
Do you have links that you’d like to share for others to read?
Sy Asad, born in Philadelphia and raised in Houston, is a published author, freelance writer, songwriter as well as entrepreneur. As a child she escaped through books and reading was one of her favorite things to do. She wrote her first song at seven years old and she also won many awards performing poetry. Seeing the impact words, hers and others, had on people; she knew writing was something she wanted to be involved in heavily.
● Where are you from? Born in Philadelphia, Raised in Houston and Reside in GA
● Why do you write? It’s part of my mission in life.
● What do you write about? I’ve written two self-help books, a how-to book, and a fictional children story.
● Do you have a specific writing style? I just write from the heart
● What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? Of course life can have it’s own challenges so authors must stay focused and motivated enough to finish their book.
● Whats the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work? That she read excerpts of my book to her daughters.
● How long have you been writing? Since I was a young girl. I wrote my first song at 7 years old.
● When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer? When I was young and realized how my words could affect people’s emotions.
● What is your work schedule like when you are writing? I plan my writing according to my daily schedule and keep a digital notepad near me so if I get randomly inspired I can type the words to myself and edit it later.
● What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? I write like I’m talking to a close friend.
● How long does it take to write a book? (if you’ve written one -published or non) It truly depends. I have a book called, “ How to Write A Book in 24 Hours.”
● Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer? Worry less and Write More.
● What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story? Any writer can come across writer’s block. If that is an issue for you check out my book “ Write Your Book in 24 Hours” or my webinar www.WriteABookThatSells.com
● What do you think makes a good story? Something written that readers from different backgrounds, age groups and genders can read and appreciate.
● What does your family think of your writing? They’re not surprised. They are supportive.
● Do you see writing as a career? Yes I do. I see it as a passion and a career.
● Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers? I am creating a non-profit called Books For Betterment and I have a webinar called “How To Write A Book That Sells” available at http://www.WriteABookThatSells.com.
● When did you first consider yourself a writer? When I wrote my first song and performed it at my mom’s wedding reception.
Saying “Yes” To (NO): : Learning the Power of (No)
Nadean Barton was born on the small island of Jamaica, and grew up in Bronx, New York. She enlisted in the U.S. Navy in October 1995 and completed basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois. Her first assignment after training was Helicopter Squadron One in Jacksonville, Florida, followed by Dental Assistant Class “A” school in San Diego, California. Then, she Bon Voyage on the USS Kitty Hawk homeported in Yokosuka Japan. While stationed in Japan, she visited countries such as Australia, Singapore, Jebel Ali, Thailand, Dubai, Middle East, and Korea. Barton then went to Naples, Italy, where she pursued her dream in track and field while still working as a Dental Assistant. After she left Italy, she continued to Bethesda, Maryland. She then transferred to Navy Recruiting District Miami, Florida, where she switched Careers to Recruiting and after seven years, she transferred to Navy Recruiting District Dallas, Texas and then Navy Recruiting District Seattle, Washington where she advanced to Chief Petty Officer. After that tour, she transferred to Navy Recruiting District Atlanta, Georgia from which she will be retire. Her personal decorations include Nine Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, and various unit awards. She has a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Ashford University. Nadean’s book “Can A Girl Catch A Break” was birthed from tragedy to triumph while enduring a miscarriage. She turned my pain, hurt, and grief into motivation and courage to push herself forward to positively impact others through her story. She wrote Can A Girl Catch A Break? in just 6 days and published it 30 days after. Writing was her healing outlet and was the first step in sorting out her emotions. She loved the idea of being able to share her experiences with the world to help others going through the same or similar circumstances. After seeking therapy after her miscarriage, she got the opportunity to be a co-author on the best-selling book, “The Voices Behind Mental Illness, The Life of a Veteran” she utilized that book for the Map to Mental Wellness Success. Following that she wrote her other book, “The Love She Never Had.” Nadean is also a co-author on the best-selling book, “There is No Health Without Mental Health Anthology.
Where are you from? I was born in Jamaica and grew up in Bronx New York
Why do you write? I write to ease the pain of my miscarriage
What do you write about? I write about the love I never had growing up with my dad and the love I lost in my miscarriage from my first child.
Do you have a specific writing style? I am a new author so I do not have a specific style.
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work? Why did I start writing at this age.
How long have you been writing? I started writing Oct 2019 during the miscarriage of my first child, where my boyfriend left me bleeding.
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer? During my miscarriage, I needed an outlet
What is your work schedule like when you are writing? I don’t have a specific schedule since I have a fulltime job. I wake up early and go to bed late so that I have enough time to work on my writing or my online store http://www.cangirlcatchabreakchicboutique.com, which came about after my miscarriage.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? I find myself staying home more since I started writing and just thinking of new ideas to write about.
How long does it take to write a book? (if you’ve written one -published or non) My first book that I have written during my miscarriage, “Can A Girl Catch A Break?” I wrote in 6 days and published it in 30 days, I just needed an outlet of all the bottled up emotions I had from not getting the love I needed from my dad, from my boyfriend who left me and from bad treatment from some co-workers, hence the reason my first book was generated, “Can A Girl Catch A break?’’
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer? I would love to be a better writer, and I am learning as I go, so my suggestion is to just jot down any thoughts that you have and put them together at a later date.
What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story? Sometimes I hit a wall and just have to think my way out and let it flow naturally, going back to my own experiences.
What do you think makes a good story? I think a good story is different from everyone’s my good story may not be somebody else’s good story.
What does your family think of your writing? Some or ok and some doesn’t support because I write about my dad.
Do you see writing as a career? I would love for it to be a career or 2nd career
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers? You can get to know me through my book and a lot of people that knows me though I had it all together until they read my story.
When did you first consider yourself a writer? After my book was published and people kept telling me you’re an author now.
I am also a co author on 2 other books:
The Voices Behind Mental Illness Series 5: “The Life of a Veteran”
A native of Cleveland, R.R. Noall penned her college essay on her love affair with words. Since then, writing has permeated her career aspirations and pastimes.
Beginning in the summer of 2016, Rachel dedicated herself to writing. Since then, her creative work has been published in books, journals, and on blogs.
For Rachel, writing was a natural segue into the field of marketing. To supplement her writing experience, Rachel has earned marketing certificates from reputable journals and universities. Under the name R.R. Noall, Rachel currently works with numerous clients as a copywriter, marketing strategist, and SEO specialist.
You can find Rachel teaching English classes at Red Rocks Community College, where she aims to try to convert everyone to the dark side (to be English majors). She teaches English Composition and pushes her students to find their voice through each and every writing assignment.
Noall is also the founder and Editor-in-Chief of an arts and literary magazine called From Whispers to Roars. The magazine was founded on the idea that artists should have communities for exchange and growth; From Whispers to Roars hosts weekly writing prompts, a blog, and published its first issue in April of 2018. After only a year in existence, the magazine has a readership of over 25,000 globally.
R.R. Noall is a Denver typewriter poet, and works weddings, events, and parties. Her love of typewriter poetry ultimately led to podcasting. She recently started a poetry podcast called Poems for People. The new poetry podcast, which releases new episodes every Wednesday, focuses on amazing humans, their stories, and how each story can be turned into a poem. She also earned her MA in Creative Writing from the University of Denver in 2019.
Yes. Rachel does A LOT of things. But, in her free time, she continues to fall in love with Colorado, explores national parks, spoils her dog (named Potato), writes poetry, and drinks adult beverages alongside good company.
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
The first time I said it out loud – I think I was about 15. I had just travelled to Italy for the first time, and was so inspired by the beauty. I remember wanting so badly to capture it with words, and feeling frustrated that I couldn’t.
When I look back, however, I have been writing for much longer. I used to write little quotes and tid bits into a journal. I even used to write song lyrics. I suppose that I knew, but had no idea what that would actually look like as a career.
Do you have a specific writing style?
Yes and no.
In terms of length, I love short form, which Instagram is great for. In my next book, readers will see many more longer pieces, however. I think that books give more room for further explanation, whereas social media is more about brevity.
When and how I write also differs. Sometimes, I write in chunks of time, but I am always happy to allow the inspiration to strike when it comes along throughout the day.
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live?
Great question. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. I also went to college in the Rust Belt – In eastern Pennsylvania. Midwest people and communities have a grit I can’t quite describe. I think it’s in their blood, and maybe in part due to the harsh winters. Being from there, I learn a lot about resilience, hard-work, and focus.
After college, I moved to Denver. What attracted me to Colorado was the nature – I love getting lost in the trees, camping, and exploring small and quirky mountain towns. Additionally, Denver is a city of transplants, which means that everyone is just really nice, but also bring their unique perspectives to the city. It really is a global place.
I feel constantly inspired. The people I surround myself with are hustlers in every way – I feel so fueled creatively by them and by the adventures we go on. It definitely impacts my writing.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
Actually, I write a lot on my typewriter! I am an Denver typewriter poet, which is a really fun side gig, but it also means I’m just writing a lot on there every day. I also host a poetry podcast, where I interview inspiring humans, and then turn their stories into typewriter poetry on-the-spot.
When I’m out an about, and the typewriter isn’t with me, I usually write in the Notes section on my phone. It allows for real-time writing when I feel inspired.
Most writers have a day job. What’s yours?
I am the founder and CEO of a marketing firm, RN Marketing Collective. We exclusively serve creative entrepreneurs. Most creatives think that “traditional marketing” is out of their budget, and that just isn’t true. I feel so thankful that I get to help people grow their creative businesses. I am constantly inspired, and feel so lucky that I get to do so many things that I love.
Alayna Hallward is an author who enjoys pushing the limit. She is still considered new to the writing community, but she prides herself on creating chilling stories. In her stories, she tries to pay homage to other things that she finds interesting. While she enjoys entertaining readers, she believes it is important to challenge a person’s wit.
Describe yourself in five words
If I had to pick five words then they would be mysterious, compassionate, childish, headstrong, and sarcastic. All of which bundle together for good memories and fun times.
What fact about yourself would really surprise people?
I love nature and while I love animals, I am big on gardening. It was something that my great grandfather loved doing. When he passed away, I found myself keeping his memory alive. When you plant a lovely garden, it attracts different creatures. On top of seeing different animals, a garden gives a backyard personality. I love coming up with a new personality each year.
How do you work through self-doubts and fear?
While I have my family and they are very supportive, sometimes it is not enough. I tend to talk to my friends. They tend to give me the swift kick in the backside that I really need. If I am struggling with plots, they offer advice. If I am truly struggling with a certain matter, then I have a group of friends that help me with writing. After working with them I find the strength I need to go back and tackle a certain problem.
What scares you the most?
While it may sound a bit cliché, I actually fear letting people down. I don’t like when people put a lot of faith in me and I am unable to deliver. It is not about making a name for yourself. It is about doing what you set out for yourself. I feel that if I don’t give my all then I have wasted the time and effort that they put into me. The last thing I want to do is make someone feel as if they have wasted their time.
What makes you happiest?
I am the happiest when I am with my friends or family. I wish I could say that we are doing something cool, but that is not the case. It can be as simple as eating dinner together or playing a card game. As long as I am with the people that make me smile, I tend to be rather happy. When it comes to my friends, if I am not playing games with them, I am actually happy when we write together. There is something about coming up with a story together, that just makes my day.
Why do you write?
I write to express myself and as a way to relax. There is something about coming up with a world of my own that keeps me going. I could never draw and there were dreams like becoming a veterinarian that I did not achieve. I realized with writing, I could make a character that could do what I could never do.
Have you always enjoyed writing?
That is actually a tough and somewhat tricky question to answer. I tended to write and read a lot when I was growing up. I did not come to enjoy it until high school. Before that, I mostly wrote for a grade and nothing more. I guess what stopped me from realizing my love was getting over grammar issues. The constant corrections and feedback made me think that writing was not fun. After doing lots of reading, I realized that writing is more than papers. You can express yourself in ways that some people may never understand.
What motivates you to write?
Most of my writing is done with my friends. If they come to me with a storyline and it has a great plot, I cannot resist bringing that story to life. When I am working on a story alone, it all comes down to an idea. If it has grown to a point that cannot be ignored, then I am all for creating the story. When I am creating the story, I want to ensure that I am not the only person that is going to enjoy it.
What writing are you most proud of? .
I am proud of the short story that motivated me to actually write “Deviously Sincere”. It was something that I made in my creative writing class. If it was not for the positive feedback from my classmates, I doubt that I would have kept it going. When I came up with the second draft, I fell in love with the story.
What are you most proud of in your personal life?
When it comes to my personal life, I will have to say I am proud of my own personal growth. I am comfortable with who I am. Since I know who I am, I am finally able to be the friend that I have always wanted to be. While I am still flawed, I like to think that diamonds are flawed as well. Regardless of my flaws, I still strive to make my friends happy.
What books did you love growing up?
I loved “A Series of Unfortunate Events”. I remember seeing the posters for that book in the hallway for a few years. Each year that I saw it, I wanted the series more and more. Then one day I was given the set as a gift and I could not put it down. I also loved Shel Silverstein’s poems. There was something about his poems and books that just made me smile. Other books that I could relate to were “Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing” and a few Beverly Cleary stories.
What do you hope your obituary will say about you?
That is something that I have not even thought about. It is actually something I don’t place much thought in. I just hope that it makes people smile and is honest at the same time. Since my family will be the ones writing it, I am sure it will capture my personality in some way. In all honesty, that is one piece that I want to have no connection with.
Location and life experiences can really influence writing, tell us where you grew up and where you now live?
Since I don’t want my life to have much sway over my work, I will give a few things. I spent enough time in the city and in the country. I am open to living in the country or city. While it may be slower, you can actually appreciate nature in rural areas.
How did you develop your writing?
I discovered online roleplaying and fell in love with it. I learned how to develop characters, plots, and many other things. Without roleplaying, I don’t think I would have gotten this far. Working with other people is a good way to develop yourself as a writer. Since roleplaying has a lot of different genres, like fantasy, fan fiction, etc, you can grow in many ways. This also helped me to see that I was not limited to just one thing.
What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?
They are all hard. I would say marketing takes the cake for sure. Once you create the story and then save up the money you think it would be easy. That is far from true. There is no promise when it comes to marketing, especially if you self-publish. I remember sitting down and thinking that I had to have missed a step. I felt like I was some kind of baker that forgot to add eggs or sugar to the batter. There is no set plan that you have to follow. There are a lot of suggestions out there, but nothing that is for sure. While people can help you, in the end, it all falls on your lap. If you honestly want to see results it all comes down to you. You cannot be shy about things. You have to get out there and promote your baby, because no one else understands everything that went into your masterpiece. There are times when you will get discouraged, because the market is not a stable place. In the end, it is all about determination and going even when you want to sit down. You don’t fully realize the struggle until you have to market your work.
What marketing works for you?
I discovered the Writing Community on Twitter. I tend to promote through there. Like I said, nothing is perfect. I am sure I am not fully using my platform properly. I am sure I could reach more if I had my own website or book trailer. For now, those are projects that I need to start. Word of mouth, via tweets is what truly works for me.
Do you find it hard to share your work?
While I bite my nails over reviews, it is not that hard. The fact that I took a creative writing class truly helped with that. The teacher of the class, I remember tore my work apart and my classmates enjoyed it. At that moment I realized, you cannot make everyone happy. Some people are going to hate it and others are not. As long as someone likes my work then I can keep going. If I didn’t share it, then I would never know where people stand.
Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?
My family and friends are very supportive. Without them I doubt I would have made it this far. They keep me going and for that I am very grateful.
What else do you do, other than write?
I love playing video games. For the most part I enjoy playing alone, but there are few games that I will play with friends. When I am not playing video games, I enjoy card or board games. I used to play Star Wars: Imperial Assault and Catan. I love games like that and I love learning new games. Outside of gaming, I am big on sports. There are some sporting events that I have not attended, but in time I will check them off.
If you could study any subject at university what would you pick?
Paleontology since I love fossils and dinosaurs for sure. That is mainly something that was brought to life as a child when I watched “Jurassic Park” for the first time. If I had to pick a language to study, it would be Japanese. I was actually supposed to take that class, but it closed before I could join. I ended up studying another language for four semesters.
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
There are actually two places that I want to live. I would not mind living in England or in Japan. I love the rural areas for both places. The cities are nice as well. The weather would not hinder my choice. It would just mean that I get to grow a certain garden, depending on where I decided to live.
How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
Most of my writing is now done on a laptop. If I am out or in bed, then I use a notebook and a pen. I have a lot of notebooks filled with different ideas or plots. If I am typing a story, I will use a notebook to help me track certain events or names. I tried writing at a desk, but I never liked looking ahead at a wall. I may get a desk again, but for now I don’t use one.
How much sleep do you need to be your best?
I need at least six hours of sleep to feel like I am at my best. Since I have issues sleeping at night, my sleep is all over the place. As long as I get over four or five hours of sleep, I can function and think.
Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you?
Success comes from having an active group of people that give you feedback on your work. They participate in questions and answers and want to know more about the story. I wish I could say I care more for the rewards and other things, but I am interested in what the readers have to say. Rewards to me are a second bonus.
It is vital to get exposure and target the right readers for your writing, tell us about your marketing campaign?
I wish I could write for everyone, but I mostly target people that are in their early twenties. That is the starting age, since I encourage people that are older as well. If my book did not have some violent moments, then I am sure it would be something that possibly young adults would like as well.
Tell us about your new book? Why did you write it?
It started as a short story that dealt with a serial killer giving his confession to a doctor. The feeling that I got while writing as Hyde was something I could not pass up on. It was actually the villain that encouraged me to keep writing the story. I had a vision that revolved around Hyde and his reasons for harming women. I was inspired by other ideas that added more fuel to Hyde’s development. While I created this interesting villain, I had to create someone that could go against him. The idea of a female agent was something that popped into my head. While I wish I could say more about the two, that would require me to spoil the ending of the book. This book pays respect to everyone in my creative writing class that told me to keep going and they wanted more of Hyde. I will admit that some aspects of the short story appear in the novel.
If you could have a dinner party and invite anyone dead or alive, who would you ask?
It would not be a party if I just invited one person. I will start with the people who are no longer with us. I would invite: Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison, Oscar Wilde, Charles Dickens, Edgar Allen Poe, Robert Stevenson, Bram Stoker, Arthur Conan Doyle, Shel Silverstein, and Mary Shelly. For those that are living I would not just stick with authors or poets. I would invite: Lemony Snicket, Patrick Stewart, Jeremy Irons, Ian Mckellen, Tom Hiddleston, Beverly Cleary, and Judy Blume. I like that my guests are all over the place since each has inspired me in their own way.
When you are not writing, how do you like to relax?
Depending on the season, I am either outside in my garden or doing something that allows me to be outside. I love going to sport events. When I feel like being lazy or it is too cold, then I enjoy playing video games or any type of indoor game.
What do you hope people will take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel?
I hope that people just get lost in the story. I hope they feel some type of chill run through their body while they are reading. I truly wish that they are able to picture the characters how they want. There is a reason why I never actually describe how my characters look. My story gives the reader the world they are in, but they come up with how the characters look. I may give minor hints, but for the most part it is on them to create their own view. I believe that doing that allows them to feel closer to the story. Also, I encourage my readers to read closely. Names are mentioned for a reason and it is important to track dates, names, and other important details. I may mention a name once or twice, but it has meaning. Meaning is something that is explained either right away or over time.
I am an Audit Director, married, with two small children. I work part-time and like to spend my free time writing.
Why do you write?
Writing has become my main hobby over the last two years.
What do you write about?
I write about all the beautiful things in life that I like. However, I only write about things I know a lot about.
My work as an author began with a first small book on “Rare Gemstones And Other Precious Stones” because I always wondered what is out there apart from the well-known diamonds, pearls and so on.
As a second book, I wrote about “How to Generate and Earn Royalty Income” because I know a lot about it and myself own some music royalty income. This book helps people to generate a side income from royalties.
My very recent book is the first try in fiction, wherein I use my experiences from 20 years of auditing. “Too Deep In With The Auditor” is somewhat my third child and I am very proud of it. I am now writing a second part. You can follow the progress on marinapetersbooks.com or my Goodreads page.
Do you have a specific writing style?
I try to keep my work easy-going, casual and easy to understand.
What are the obstacles that come in the way of writing?
You need so much time until a book is born. The funny part is writing itself but then you need a cover, you need to format, you need to publish, you need to market …
What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work?
“Wow, I didn’t know that the auditing business is so cool!”
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
About two years ago.
What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
I normally write the day I am not working as an auditor. Sometimes I also write late in the evenings or at weekends.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
In “Too Deep In With The Auditor” I tried to keep the pace high. So the writing style is very casual and moving forward. I think you will like it when you read it.
Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer?
Always have something with you to take notes – always!
What do you think makes a good story?
As simple as it sounds: People should like to read it, they should always want to know how the book moves on.
Do you see writing as a career?
Well, not for me, but generally speaking, yes, absolutely!
![The Protector by [Leslie Graham]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31uMtg4kTmL.jpg)
International Book Promotion 