Author Spotlight

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.

October 2, 2019

An Interview with Srividya Bhaskara (ADDED SUGARS THE SLOW POISON)

Srividya Bhaskara

Srividya Bhaskara is a Graduate from Department of Electronics and Communication engineering ,JNTU, Hyderabad, India.She is passionate about Literature, Fine arts, Music, Gardening, Creative writing, painting & childcare.she is very passionate about Gardening, especially HIBISCUS AND ROSES.

ADDED SUGARS THE SLOW POISON: Discover the Cumulative and Deadly effects of Added sugars used in Processed food

This book is a simple yet insightful guide to gain information about all aspects of ADDED SUGARS AND THEIR DETRIMENTAL EFFECTS TO THE SOCIETY. Increasing metabolic disorders in children due to large consumption of ADDED SUGARS in processed food is the Key Motivating factor for Conception of this book.

  1. Where are you from?

My name is Srividya Bhaskara. I am an Indian and I live in the city of  Hyderabad.

2. Why do you write?

Writing is a simple yet wonderful form of expression of My thoughts, ideas, imagination. I can bond with people all over the world with My New ideas, stories. I can share my treasure of joys, suggestions, information, lessons to my readers with lots of ease.

I can create my own world of stories, characters, fun, research and share it with my friends and readers. A writer has a unique privilege to form a  bond of friendship without being physically present.

3. What do you write about?

The topics I choose for writing  are wide and thought provoking. I generally write topics related to Non fiction such as health and fitness.i do write short stories which have humour, subtle characters which we come across in  our daily  lives.i have not confined myself to a particular genre,it  all depends on the need of the hour and motivation.

I have now published an ebook “ADDED SUGARS THE SLOW POISON” in amazon. The book signifies the harmful and dangerous effects about added sugars which are hidden in the processed food items which we consume daily.

These added sugars act as silent killers and cause chronic metabolic disorders like obesity, type-2 diabetes, Non-alcoholic fatty liver.

4. What are the obstacles that come in the way of writing?

In the beginning days of my writing, I had 2 main obstacles in the process of writing my ebook.

  • Noisy surroundings: As I live in a city environment, with too much traffic, with no quiet secluded corner. I found concentrating on my work little difficult. But as I have finished writing my first ebook I have matured and learnt to cope and write. I take early hours of my day, wake up early in the morning when the external environment is calm. Regular practice helped me learn concentration, commitment in the process of learning and writing a book.
  • Formatting the chapters:  As I started my first book, I was flooded with lots of information, sometimes I used to get perplexed about the sequence and flow of  information and chapters. But once I obtained  clarity about what I want to give to the readers, I got to know how to put that information correctly in an order.

Book writing is wonderful art and Just like any art, book writing also requires patience, experience, love and time.

5.How long have you been been writing?

I have been writing since my childhood and school days. I have been a member of  literary club in my school, wrote short stories for various competitions. From the past one year I have started writing ebooks and I published my first book “ADDED SUGARS THE SLOW POISON” In amazon.

6. When did you first realize that you wanted to become a writer?

I was a voracious reader right from childhood, read children’s books, animated series, short stories, detective stories, humorous and witty short stories. Reading inspired me to write and express and share my own   personal experiences. I found happiness in writing and sharing my words and thoughts to my readers.

It was when my english teachers in my school and college days appreciated and encouraged my short stories, I realized that I should become a writer.

7. How long it takes to write a book ?

It depends upon the type of book you are writing a book (long book/short book). There are mainly 2 types of books available in the market. There are ebooks, paperback books.

There are 3 important stages in ebook/book publication:

  • Preparation of manuscript & cover page of the book (ideally 3 months for short books): Well, prepared manuscript is the foundation for the success of any book. Hence, a writer needs to take sufficient time to give best quality of content to the readers. An attractive cover page is also important to drive the audience to read a book.
  • Formatting of the book (kindle /microsoft / epub/mobi (1 month)): The manuscript has to properly formatted to fit for e- readers/ kindle devices.The diagrams, jpg images, page margins, flow charts, sentence spacing, paragraph spacing, page settings have to be done neatly.
  • Uploading the book to amazon or other platforms (15 days to 1 month): Depends upon the no. of platforms your book needs to be published. There are good no. of publishers apart from amazon which publish ebooks, paperback print on demand books.

 It takes a total of 5 -6 months for a short book to be neatly published.

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

As I am a beginner in writing books , it will be too early  for me to give advice. But I can give some tips which will reduce some strain.

1. Plan every step of book writing (create a daily schedule)

2. Do enjoy the process of writing (treat it as your child)

3. Do not be afraid of mistakes /criticism( there always will be some amount of criticism)

4. Set a deadline, so that you always feel motivated.

5. Always remember that we grow from our first book.

6. Keep things as simple as possible.

9. What do you think it takes a good story?

A good story is an honest account of a writer of his experiences, information, joys and sorrows. A good story is simple and touches the heart of the reader with its true words.

10. Do you have anything to share with your readers?

Hi friends,

Just wanted to share a good news!

My kindle ebook “ADDED SUGARS THE SLOW POISON” is going live on Aug 14th. I want to spread the message about how added sugars have silently crept into our lives through numerous processed food items like: daily cereals, sweetened yogurt, sodas, soft drinks, diet coke, ketchups, sports drinks, and are causing major damage to our health.        

These added / refined sugars are silent killers, cause metabolic disorders like: Obesity, insulin resistance, Type-2 diabetes,Non-alcoholic Fatty liver, cardiovascular problems.

Come! Let us save our future generations and children from sugary drinks, processed foods.

11. What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

I give my book writing a high priority, so I take time in early mornings when the rest of the environment is quiet, calm & peaceful. I do all my book writing and research in solitude.

August 21, 2019

An Interview with Holy Ghost Writer

The Anonymous Girl by Holy Ghost Writer

Who is the Holy Ghost Writer?

The identity of the author is part of an international contest. The first person to correctly name the HG Writer from the clues found in the Count of Monte Cristo sequels will receive a reward of $5000. Visit the Holy Ghost Writer’s Amazon Author Page for Details and see if you can discover the real identity of the author being heralded by fans as the new Stieg Larsson for The Anonymous Girl, the successor of Alexander Dumas for The Sovereign Order of Monte Cristo and the next Ray Bradbury for The Boy Who Played With Dark Matter. Contact the author c/o books@illuminatedpublications.com

How many books does the author have on the Amazon site?

A total of 31 books have been published to date.

The Mysterious Affair At Styles by Holy Ghost Writer

What is the latest release on Amazon?

Donald J. Trump: The Second Coming of Christ

What is the most notable reviews received for The Sultan of Monte Cristo: First Sequel to the Count of Monte Cristo?

“The Sultan of Monte Cristo is a quick and fascinating read that fulfills the fantasies so many readers have longed for after turning the last page of The Count of Monte Cristo. I highly recommend Holy Ghost Writer’s book, but with a warning: Once you read this first book there is no going back; you are going to want to read the next. I can’t wait to read the next installment, The Sovereign Order of Monte Cristo, and see what new adventures await.” Tania Staley, Pacific Book Review.

“Edmond Dantes, and his many identities, traverses the world in this whirlwind of a sequel.” Kirkus review.

“Overall, this book, though shorter than I wanted, was a good one to read.” Hollywood Book Reviews.

Where can readers get the clue to guess the author’s identity?

It is FREE on Kindle

Where did you get the idea to explore the stories of Alexandre Dumas?

My desire to continue the stories of Alexandre Dumas stem from a deep love for literature that he helped develop in me. I realize that some will be offended that I have the moxie to condense and retell his stories through the Americanized voice of Sherlock Holmes and add my own as sequels.  In doing so, I believe that I am reintroducing The Count of Monte Cristo to a new generation of readers that most likely would have skipped this classic for its age and verbosity. I actually advise my readers to enjoy, as I did, the best translation, for those who read only English, by Robin Buss.

Why the pen name, ‘Holy Ghost Writer’?  Am I saying that I am holy?  God forbid! No, it is just a way to add mystery to the contest to discover my true identity.  It is more along the lines of Robin saying, “Holy Ghost Writer, Batman.”  Another reason is that Edmond Dantes refers to himself as “divine providence” in this classic tale.  Those who write on subjects touching on divinity are often referred to as holy ghost writers.  Just google the term if you doubt my word.  In the process of writing That Girl Started Her Own Country (6th in the Monte Cristo series) I discovered that I am a possibillionist as did Zaydee, that book’s heroine.  So for those of you who are turned off by religion, please understand that I am not ‘holier than thou’ and certainly not preaching any particular religious beliefs (or lack thereof) although my characters may express some of their own from time to time.  

How many books are there in the Monte Cristo series?

There are 6 books with “That Girl Started Her Own Country” being the last and the one that has garnered the most reviews so far.

That Girl Started Her Own Country

What is your message to your readers?

I hope, dear reader, you enjoy exploring these works of quasi-fiction as much as I enjoyed creating them.

August 16, 2019

An Interview with Latoya Lawson

Latoya Lawson

LaToya Lawson is a crime thriller/ mystery author and caregiver, whose creativity, compassion and perseverance have all earned her the reputation as a service-centred leader. Born in Chicago and employed as a caregiver from the age of nineteen, LaToya Lawson has spent most of her life by the bedsides of the sick and infirm. 

By age twenty-three, she had founded Mississippi Professional Nursing Care, LLC, which would go on to inspire her debut novel, MA’SITTER. Although this career choice offered many rewarding moments, it was her lifelong passion to write that ultimately helped create this original work. As an African-American woman living in Mississippi, LaToya is familiar with the bigotry and social injustices of life in the Deep South.

An intensely personal work, the book was born from LaToya’s first-hand experience with racism, faith, friendship and life as a single mother in a world shaped by privilege. Her main character, Victoria Lewis, is a strong, single-minded woman, determined to build a better life for her child, Mona. As a female writer, Lawson’s stories are at times filled with pain, but are ultimately uplifting, buoyed by the triumph and redemption of her characters.

When LaToya isn’t writing, she can be found by her oven, either checking her latest baked three-layer Red Velvet cake or cooking a soul food feast; she can also be found soaring down the highway on her motorcycle

Ma’Sitter

Ma’Sitter looks like a great mystery thriller.  Any plans to release similar books or turn it into a series?   

Yes, MA’SITTER is a four-part series. So, we are just warming up with the first book.

What will readers get out of your book?    

I hope entertainment! It’s a fiction book yet my main character Victoria Lewis is relatable to anyone who has struggled to make ends meet. While working for privileged individuals or super rich snobby corporate bosses. Every night millions of people dream and pray for a fruitful life. Or to sing and dance like Beyoncé, act like Hallie Berry, produce movies like Steven Spielberg or have an all-time best-selling book, movie and so much more like J.K. Rowling.

What inspired you when writing Ma’Sitter?    

I started writing MA’SITTER in 2011 and I buried it not long after. My motorcycle accident on March 9, 2018 made me immobile, depressed, hopeless and bored. Therefore, my love DeLeón and sister-cousin Toroda encouraged me to complete MA’SITTER. Once, I started back writing I couldn’t stop. Writing and creating people (LOL) truly makes me happy. I love it!!!!!!

 I also kept hearing my 8th grade teacher Mr. Lewis telling me you’re going to be a writer one day.

Side note too teachers: MOLD AND ENCOURGAE OUR CHILDREN.

The words of my 8th grade teacher Mr. Lewis at Chastain Middle School in Jackson, MS have stuck with me all these years!!

When did you decide to become a writer?

I was ordained at the young age of 13. Summoned into an imaginary world where I could be whoever I wanted. And speak my mind to whom ever I felt. It wasn’t until my motorcycle accident that I pursued this career.

When writing Ma’Sitter did anything stand out as particularly challenging?   

I cried as I wrote about the character Zaka.

How did you come up with story for Ma’Sitter?   

Well, since you asked! LOL 

At the age of 23 I started my own private care sitting service. Therefore, I have seen and heard many things. Some of the people who signed my checks became the best inspiration and motivation. And not because they personally encouraged me but more so because they looked down on me. Therefore, I emptied my rage, feelings, thoughts, dreams and crazy ideas into MA’SITTER.

What do you like to do when not writing? 

I am so ashamed to say this but, riding my motorcycle.

I also love to bake, cook and plant flowers. Seeing my flowers grow into huge, “FEED ME SEYMOUR PLANTS,” has been a thrill when not writing a thriller. LOL

How can readers discover more about you and your work?  

WWW.MASITTERBOOKSERIES.COM

FACEBOOK: LaToya Lawson or Latoya Lawson

Amazon Author Page: LaToya Lawson

Instagram: masitterbookseries

July 23, 2019

Author Interview with Dipa Sanatani

Dipa Sanatani
The Little Light

Dipa Sanatani

Author of The Little Light: A Story of Reincarnation and the Crazy Cosmic Family

Describe yourself in five words

Curious. Adventurous. Happy go lucky.

What fact about yourself would really surprise people? 

When I was a kid, I wanted to be an astronaut. Even today, I love visiting planetariums and observatories. It reminds me that the world is a vast and glorious place full of undiscovered mysteries.

How do you work through self-doubts and fear? 

I follow my heart’s desire. And that’s that.

What scares you the most? 

Heights. Seriously. The first time I went rock climbing, I nearly threw up.

What makes you happiest? 

I enjoy both solitude and the company of others. There’s a sense of exhilaration that sweeps through me whenever I pack my bags and embark on a solo adventure in a new country. I also relish a good one-on-one conversation that’s full of depth and substance. Throw in a nice meal and we’re in business.

What books did you love growing up? 

As a kid, I loved Roald Dahl. I re-read The Witches countless times. He has a brilliant way of weaving real life into a story and making it fantastical. I read a lot of Enid Blyton, too. Archie comics were a childhood favorite of mine.

I think I’m dating myself… Yes, I grew up in the 90s.

Why do you write? 

Because I must. I don’t remember a time when I didn’t write. I can’t remember a time when I didn’t want to be a writer. I don’t know where this desire comes from. It’s hard to explain.

What do you hope your obituary will say about you? 

She fulfilled her personal legend. I’m a Paulo Coelho fan. Can you tell?

Location and life experiences can really influence writing. Tell us how your travels have influenced your work. 

I’ve lived, worked and studied in: Singapore, Australia, Israel, Japan and China. Each culture I’ve encountered has molded and shaped me in some way. Perhaps I’ll tell that story when I’m old enough to write a memoir.

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

San Francisco. What a city. What a vibe.

How did you develop your writing?

I started by writing words. Words became sentences. Sentences became paragraphs. Paragraphs became chapters. And one day, I was holding my very own debut novel in my hand… I’d say that’s the gist of it.

Do you find it hard to share your work? 

I think there’s a big difference between the stuff you write for yourself and the stuff you write for publication. It would be ill-advised to confuse the two. 

What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing? 

To be an authorpreneur is to constantly develop and expand your skillset. When I started my own publishing business Mith Books, I knew I had to become a jack of all trades. It hasn’t been easy – but the journey’s been incredible. I’ve grown so much so quickly.

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in starting Mith Books? 

There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes into making a book happen. It’s also an industry that’s been going through an overhaul since ereaders entered the market. The game’s been changing for several years now and will continue to change in the future. Personally, I think it’s an exciting time to be in the book business.

Currently, I’m working ridiculously long hours as I’m in the startup phase of a business. Finding the right people to work with has been a challenge. I’ve collaborated with some incredible individuals as well as ran into a few duds. It’s part self-study and part trial-and-error.

What marketing works for you? 

I’d say that unlike other ‘products’ available in the market, a book is different – especially when we’re talking about fiction. We can do our best to hustle and get it out there into the hands of reviewers and readers, but we never know when the story will take off and find its way into the public imagination. It’s not a linear path.

Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you? 

I’d say a vast majority of them would prefer that I live a ‘stable and secure’ life where I conform to societal norms. But the heart wants what it wants. I’ve met way too many people well-meaning people who make the mistake of projecting their own fears and expectations onto me.

One thing I’ve learned is that it is unwise to stand between a soul and its heart’s desire. The soul always chooses the heart’s desire.

 What other jobs have you had in your life? 

My background’s in business and education. I have extensive experience in the public-school system as well as the private, corporate and government sectors.

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

Astrophysics. Having said that, I don’t have any intention of going back to school anytime soon. I prefer learning-by-doing. I no longer have it in me to sit in a classroom.

Tell us about your new book.

The Sun, the Moon, Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu – Celestial Beings from world mythology – bicker and squabble, just like any family. But they’re going to have to put their differences aside to help the Little Light – a wise soul, imbued with insight and curiosity – prepare for its birth on Planet Earth, where it has a great and far-reaching destiny…

What inspired The Little Light?  

The idea came to me when I was lying in bed alone in my apartment in Japan. I was contemplating the vast nature of the universe when I suddenly thought, “How nice it would be if I could invite the planets over for a discussion on life, love and the larger purpose for our existence.”

I promptly opened up my notebook and drew a sketch of what the mythological Nine Celestial Beings would look like if they were ‘updated’ for the modern era. The idea ruminated in my head for four years before I finally sat down to write the story.

It’s vital to get exposure and target the right readers for your writing. Tell us about your marketing campaign.

Many of my readers have said that The Little Light is a unique book in the spirituality genre. My novel handles themes like reincarnation, mythology, cosmology and folklore. There’s nothing else like it available in the market. Titles in the spirituality genre are typically non-fiction and intended for an adult audience. I’ve written The Little Light with younger readers in mind. My goal is to inspire their curiosity in these topics in a fun and accessible way.

This has been both my debut novel’s strength as well as the challenge I’ve faced in marketing it. This is typical of books that don’t fit into a neat category. Even marketing veterans from traditional publishing houses have told me that they’ve faced this very same challenge with some of their favorite books.

Firstly, I’d say get the buzz going about the kind of book it actually is. Target the right bloggers and reviewers that will ‘get’ your book. Don’t be hasty and rush into things too quickly. Once you have a better idea of the initial response, you can plan a more large-scale promotion campaign.

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

The Nine Great Celestial Beings, of course! The Sun, Moon, Mercury, Mars, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Rahu and Ketu. They’ve been gazing down at mankind since time as we know it began. I’m sure they’d have great stories to tell about the history of the earth.

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

Long walks by the ocean. Stargazing. Travelling. A good conversation with an old friend.

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

Life is short. Savour it.  

LINKS

Website and Blog: www.dipasanatani.com

Amazon US book link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SXJ5D6N

Instagram: www.instagram.com/mithbook            

Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/mythbooks

Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19236619.Dipa_Sanatani

Goodreads Book Page:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46174893-the-little-light

July 10, 2019

An Interview with Laura St John

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Laura St John

Laura St John is on a mission to spread kindness by teaching children to accept themselves and other children who may be different. Laura is a wife, and mom, and she works with children who have been abused and removed from their homes. She’s the author of two popular children’s books, Don’t Judge a Bug By Its Cover, and the Christmas House.

Why did you start writing children’s books?

I wrote the manuscript for both of my first two books over 15 years ago and have tweaked them along the way. I saw a need for a book about not judging people by how they look. I was trying to shape young minds to become more aware of these issues as adults.

Did you read to your children when they were younger?

Yes, every night! I missed out on being read to. My dad died when I was five and my mom was pretty busy with three kids, getting her degree, working and taking care of the home. I made sure to read to my children every night at bedtime.

How have your children influenced your writing?

The bug book was partially due to my own experiences of the past. There was some bullying along the way and some insecurity came with that which took a while to overcome. Teen image was very important for my kid’s generation – sometimes too important. Magazine images and the media created certain body type guidelines as to how we all are supposed to look.  And with that, feel about our bodies.

What is the main theme or purpose of Don’t Judge a Bug by Its Cover?

These days the news is filled with school shootings, bullying and body shaming. Children feel so much pressure to fit in, look like models and to be popular. The main message of Don’t Judge a Bug by Its Cover, is to accept others not based on their looks but who they are as humans. To look beyond the exterior features and learn to see the beauty and specialness in every person.

What ages is the book for?

I wrote it for kid’s preschool to elementary age with the hope that I can help them understand the principles of accepting others at an early age.

I want children to learn to accept others and make friends based on how they act as humans not the physical or visual aspects. Also, to help friends in need and realize that even nice-looking people can be lonely. Some of us think that if people are famous or pretty that they have tons of friends and support. But really loneliness can fall onto anyone; no matter how you look or what you have.

What are some things parents can do to help their kids accept themselves and have positive self-esteem?

Here’s three simple things parents can do to help their children accept themselves:

  1. Let your children know they are awesome just the way they are, regardless of weight, height, IQ, glasses, sports abilities etc.
  2. Say something positive to your children every day.
  3. Focus on their strengths and successes, not their weaknesses.

What are some things parents can do to help their kids accept other kids?

Parents should:

  1. NEVER say anything derogatory about another person. Children see others being prejudiced or hear them say insensitive things then they repeat what they’ve seen.
  2. ALWAYS treat others as you would want them to treat you; no matter if they are different. Freedom to be yourself and not judge others who have that same right.
  3. ALWAYS be kind, understanding and respectful.

Where can people get your book?

If you want a personalized autographed copy and bookmarker, go to my website www.LauraStJohnEnterprises.com or you can also find my books on Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, and Amazon.

June 12, 2019

Author Interview with Victoria Ray

Victoria Ray NB
Victoria Ray
Dulcinea and The Death Code

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I was born in Moscow but grew up in a small city in Belarus. My parents were divorced and for almost 10 years (during my childhood), my mother had 2 jobs: one was from 8 AM to 5 PM; the second was from 8 PM to 1 AM. I spent a lot of time reading and hanging with friends. I won a national poetry contest in Belarus. I studied classical literature, and I worked as a teacher for almost 9 years. For the last 12 years I have been living in Sweden. In August 2019 I’m planning on quitting my job to become a full-time writer. I also have two dogs: Sky and Daisy.

Describe the plot of your new book, Dulcinea and the Death Code, in a few sentences.

This is a story about a girl with unusual DNA. She is a Death Code from a place called A-Ria. What is A-Ria? Nobody knows. But Dulcinea and her new friends (kids with powerful abilities) are on the way to revealing the truth. Dulcinea is also going through a transition: from “not-caring” and “cold” child to “a sacrificing” friend, the one who is ready to protect the world and her family, even if it hurts. But as always, the bad guy – in our case, Reality – wins. At least in book 1. How? Read to find out…

What inspirations contributed to this book?

1. It is based on a vision from my meditation. 2. I tried to mix fantasy, romance, humor and bizzaro fiction.

Dulcinea must move from sunny Sumter, South Carolina to Sweden. In addition to leaving behind a familiar climate and culture, she must leave behind the people with whom she’s grown up. How does she handle this?

Dulcinea was born in Romania, but she moved to Sumter when she was a kid. She never had a lot of friends, but her life in Sumter was fun and secure. It’s always difficult to move to a new place, but you can overcome any obstacle with super friends like Joel, Osa, Loo and Brolle. These kids are from different countries and have absolutely contrasting stories, but they complement each other and they care about the Earth and Dulcinea – there lies their power.

Without giving too much away, tell us a bit about the mysterious glowing crack that follows Dulcinea around.

It is the entrance (the door) to access Reality (in a raw form), and at the same time, it is the exit, a lie and the play of Eilidh (you’ll meet IT in book 2).

Your story involves a lot of world building. Was it challenging creating fresh, new places and making them feel real?

I spared it for the next book. Of course, Dulcinea visit A-Ria 3-5 times, but we still don’t know what it is and why it wants to control the Earth.

Is there an author that has influenced your writing style?

I prefer to read short stories – mostly satire, humor, sci-fi or non-fiction (psychology and science). Also, I love crime and mystery books. My influencers are: O. Henry, Byron, Dostoevsky and Ray Bradbury.

What are your goals as a writer for the next ten years?

To see the world full of Ray’s fans.

How have your readers responded to the book so far?

Only my editors have read the book. They liked it (because of my ‘quixotic’ style). But I got 1 hate rating from a man on Goodreads, so I’m not sure… all I can say – this book is not for everybody. Mostly for: females, 13-25 years old. The book was published on Amazon on June 9. I’m looking for people who’d like to read my novel and who’d love to share their thoughts about the story and heroes. I’m providing a free copy (in any format) if you’ll send me an email: victoria.ohlsson@aol.com

Is there any aspect of writing you don’t like?

A lot of sitting. And snacking. I’m snacking a lot while writing.

Have you ever had writer’s block? If yes, how’d you deal with it? If you have not had writer’s block, why do you think you haven’t?

Some days I don’t feel the desire to write at all, and I never push myself to do something I don’t want to do. I’m living in the moment – in the Now. So, I have to enjoy it. Usually, I’m shifting between different hobbies, so I am never bored. Also, I’m working in so called “chunks” – all or nothing. That means I’m writing 3-4 weeks, and then I’m taking a break for 2 weeks. Repeat.

What do you have in mind for your next project?

Well, quite a lot.

  1. My book Damn Ray Reviews: 40 Books in Your Pocket will be published summer 2019.
  2. Poetry book, with a working title, The Legs: A Global Perspective On Society, is planned for autumn 2019.
  3. Book 2 in the series So Absurd It Must Be True, it is a mix of satire, sci-fi and erotica – winter 2020. Attention: only for adults! If you are 18+ you can check out book 1 on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/So-Absurd-Must-Be-True-ebook/dp/B07MYJRV55/ref=sr_1_1?crid=AEIJY85UI&keywords=so+absurd+it+must+be+true&qid=1560197063&s=gateway&sprefix=so+ab%2Caps%2C221&sr=8-1.
  4. My sci-fi novel The Pearl Territory. A few chapters are already posted on my blog. I’ll continue writing during the summer. You are welcome to follow the story. It is a mix of private journals and dialogues/scenes.
  5. Of course, The Secrets of A-Ria, Child of Illusion Series, Book 2 – summer 2020. I’m planning three books in the series Child of Illusion.
So Absurd It Must Be True

Is there anything else you’d like potential readers to know about your book?

  1. Written without any plotting or outline.
  2. Too many books give us “ready” answers; the author some way is “chewing” the idea and all we have to do is “digest” it. But I want you to think, to imagine, to create… that’s why this book has of a lot of mysteries – I’m simply giving you the space to move; to use your own fantasy.
  3. I added digital portraits for 6 heroes: Dulcinea, Erik, Osa, Loo, Brolle and Joel. And also a couple of poems.

Follow Victoria Ray on these social media sites:

Authors website: https://raynotbradbury.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RayNotBradbury

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/raynotbradbury/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raynotbradbury/

May 31, 2019

An Interview with J. Edwards Holt

J. Edwards Holt

Born in North Carolina, United States, J. Edwards Holt always knew that he wanted to be a writer. After graduating high school, he attended college and pursued a degree in education, but later decided to change course and follow his dream to become a novelist and children’s author. Now a full-time writer, illustrator, and blogger, Holt spends his free time dreaming up stories and reading. He is passionate about spreading Christian messages through his writing, watching science fiction and super hero movies, and collecting comic books.

Describe yourself in five words
Determined to achieve personal success

What fact about yourself would really surprise people?
Oddly enough, people that donʼt know me are most surprised to hear that Iʼm an author.

What makes you happiest?
Writing, publishing my works, and finding out that people have read my books.

Why do you write?
I write because I feel like I have a story that needs to be told. Also – itʼs something I enjoy.

Have you always enjoyed writing?
Yes. I have enjoyed writing since I was in elementary school.  

What motivates you to write?
Iʼve read lots of book and seen lots of movies throughout my life that inspired me. I always watched and enjoyed them, but always felt that I had a story of my own to tell.

What writing are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the books I currently have out on the market, which include “Little Men, Big Treasures”, itʼs sequel, “The Summonerʼs Gem”, and “Small Courage: A Short Story.” All three of these books are available for purchase on Amazon.

What books did you love growing up?
I always enjoyed fantasy stories, like the Narnia series and the Harry Potter books. To sum it up, I always loved reading fiction.

How did you develop your writing?
Practice. Writing is just like anything else: in order to be good, you have to keep at it.

What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?
Marketing, definitely. Writing and publishing are really the easy parts. Convincing people they need to choose your book over millions of others is the tricky part.

What marketing works for you?
I advertise a lot through social media, mostly Twitter and Instagram. I also do some public speaking to different groups that I feel may be interested in my work, which is helpful.

Do you find it hard to share your work?
I did at first. But, when people started giving me good feedback on my books, I became more confident and eager for a bigger audience to read them.

Is your family supportive? Do your friends support you?
Absolutely! From day one, my friends, and especially my family, have been behind me 100%.

What else do you do, other than write?
I also have a day job, working as a home health aide when Iʼm not writing.

What other jobs have you had in your life?
Before I took up writing, I worked as an elementary school teacher.

If you could study any subject at university what would you pick?
Iʼve always enjoyed literature…and religion – I find that fascinating.

How do you write – lap top, pen, paper, in bed, at a desk?
I do a lot of my writing by typing notes into my phone, and then later putting them all together on my laptop.

Is there anyone youʼd like to acknowledge and thank for their support?
Just my family and some of my friends. Theyʼve been behind me since I started on my very first book and they are still just as supportive.

Every writer has their own idea of what a successful career in writing is, what does success in writing look like to you? 
To me, success in writing is writing your story and getting it out there to as many people as possible. Whether you become a bestseller or not, the most important thing about being an author is telling your story.

It is vital to get exposure and target the right readers for your writing, tell us about your marketing campaign?
As I said before, most of my marketing is done on social media. I have a number of followers on all the big sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Tell us about your new book? Why did you write it?
The last book I published is called “Small Courage: A Short Story”. Itʼs a short eBook (and only $.99), available on Amazon and free on Kindle Unlimited. I wrote it because it was an idea that came to me that features a young girl as the main hero. Itʼs an exciting story that teaches that we shouldnʼt judge others before we know them.

When you are not writing, how do you like to relax?
Iʼm a beach guy. I love the sand and the sound of the ocean.

What do you hope people will take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel?
I hope that I can leave people with a sense of faith and happiness from my writing. I want the reader to have fun, but I also intend to teach lessons through my works.

It’s good to know that you aspire to instill a sense of faith and happiness through your writing. Thank you for participating in this author interview and we wish you all the best in your writing career.

May 21, 2019

An Interview with Laura Johnson

Author Laura Johnson

Laura Johnson is a Southern lady from the great state of Texas. She lived in Florida for over 30 years and now resides in NJ. 
Laura was an entertainer for 30+ years. She traveled up and down the East coast from Florida to Maine as a vocalist with a dinner and dance band. She is currently spending part of her time as an audiobook narrator.
‘The Wonderful World of Audiobooks/Earn Money From Home As An Audiobook Narrator’ is Laura’s first book as an author. It was written to help others learn how they can become an audiobook narrator. 
Laura loves to read, cook, and spend time with her son and 4 grandchildren. 

Planning The Perfect Party
  • Where are you from? Texas
  • Why do you write? To help others and it relaxes me, fulfills a need.
  • What do you write about? My life experiences, hobbies, and journeys. 
  • Do you have a specific writing style? Not really, just write from the heart.
  • What are obstacles that come in the way of writing? Trying to decide what to write about next.
  • What’s the most memorable thing asked/said by a reader about your work? The following review: “What a great read. A wonderful first hand experience style to an introduction to the narration world. If you’ve ever wondered if you could really pull off an audiobook narration this will absolutely inspire you. It certainly has inspired me!”
  • How long have you been writing? Since June of 2018.
  •  When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer? Years ago, when I did some writing assignments in college. Just never followed through. Let life get in the way.
  • What is your work schedule like when you are writing? I am retired. So, I have no work schedule to follow.
  • What would you say is your interesting writing quirk? I need total quiet, a cup of coffee, and feel the urge to write. That’s hard to explain, but I know when the urge comes on. It’s just a feeling I have.
  • How long does it take to write a book? (if you’ve written one -published or non) Since I only write non-fiction, how-to guides, it doesn’t take as long as a fictional novel. The longest time I spent writing was on my new party planning book. It took about 3 months. The shortest amount of time was 1 month.
  • Do you have suggestions on how to become a better writer? Not a clue. I was hoping you could answer that question.
  • What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story? I don’t write stories, but my biggest challenge in writing is remembering the life experiences I want to write about. At 70, sometimes memories have faded. But I do a lot of research on the subject I am writing about and that usually jogs my memory.
  • What do you think makes a good story? Not my expertise. But I love good chemistry between the characters, lots of action, and of course, a happy ever after ending. I am a romantic at heart.
  • What does your family think of your writing? My family, son and grandchildren are very supportive and even those family members that I only interact with online, love what I am doing. My brother is one of my biggest fans. Haven’t seen him in a bout 6 years and he follows me on FB.
  • Do you see writing as a career? No career. I am too old for a career. Just a wonderful pastime and hobby that fulfills a need and keeps my mind occupied.
  • Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers? Certainly. Never forget your passion. Follow your dreams wherever they may lead. Look at me 70 years young and living my dream.
  • When did you first consider yourself a writer? When I published my 1st book and saw my name on the cover on Amazon.

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

Most important links are:

Link to my new book is https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07R97BZCW

Website is http://laurajohnsonauthor.com

Email is laura@laurajohnsonauthor.com

Other links are:

FB Group site is https://www.facebook.com/groups/279146209295855/ 

FB author page https://www.facebook.com/Laura-Johnson-Author-2099465673680675

Twitter is https://twitter.com/LauraJo48695810

Linkedin is https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-johnson-ba467a74/

May 19, 2019

Fairies, Myths, & Magic: A Summer Celebration by Colleen M. Chesebro

Step into a world where fairies, dragons, and other magical beings converge in a collection of poetry and short stories inspired by the celebration of Litha, the Summer Solstice.

Meet Drac, a dragon cursed by his own poisonous deeds, and two pixies who help an old man remember a lost love. You’ll meet a pair of fairies with a sense of humor, and a young girl who fulfills her destiny after being struck by lightning. Learn what happens when a modern witch’s spell goes terribly wrong. Meet the Sisters of the Fey, a group of Slavic Witches who sign a pact with the Rusalki Fey to preserve their magic for the good of all.

Atmospheric and haunting, the prose and poetry, will rewrite the mythologies of the past bringing them into the future.

May 17, 2019

An Interview with Author Gregor Reti

Author Gregor Reti

Dear readers,

This week, we have an interesting, passionate and honest writer as a guest for the author interview slot. I enjoyed interviewing him and I am now following him on social media. Please welcome author Gregor Reti as we are about to read more about him and his book.

Regards,
Jasveena

Gregor had an explosive life. At the age of 13 he died, met God, and lost all death-related fears. Gregor describes it as “a starting point that allowed me to explore life to the fullest, leading me to meet my Soulmate, experience creative sexuality, and meet a personalized form of the Universe.”

Born from Hungarian immigrant parents, Gregor grew up in Germany where he modeled and worked in the music business that brought him to Los Angeles. The book “Sex, Ego and Love” exposes the essential nature of courage by following his radically honest journey through life, after-life, bisexuality, transgenderism, soulmateship, celibacy, all punctuated with deeply spiritual reflections. The lessons he shares reveal a wise framework for liberating oneself from the claws of fear and embracing personal growth using self-awareness, authentic living, and self-love.  Inspired by his spicy erotica, Gregor uses his writing to fight for the ideal of truth while battling hypocrisy. “I wish I could prove faster how tightly courage and happiness are intertwined. We can only thrive in a radically honest environment”. His book, SEX, EGO AND LOVE, shows the devastating power of fear and how it isolates and cripples us, but also reveals a profound path to personal liberation.

How do you work through self-doubts and fear when writing? 

Ha, exactly that’s the main subject of this book. We all have the same issues when it comes to the power-tools of our egos. This book helps the reader to become self-aware, to conquer doubts, hence gain more confidence and sex appeal. The book also covers shame, insecurity, real-life erotica, sexual fantasies, ego, and love.

What do you think makes a good story?

I believe in radical truth, real life experiences, when shame is conquered and everything is exposed. We are all humans and being vulnerable is not a weakness but something darn sexy. Look at James Dean for example. He was emotionally torn and cried in his movie roles. How sexy was he?

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

This book helped a stepmother to conquer her depression. While reading this book she realized that it was her ego that fed her self-doubt that held her hostage for many years. She managed to break out of this horrific cycle.

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

Please share yourself, not only with your lover, but with every friend and family member. You are setting an example for others to follow. Let’s cut the chains of insecurity, fear and shame or we run into isolation, sometimes even depression.

What scares you the most?

People who do not dare to live their lives fully. That’s either because they want to remain as victims or because they manipulate themselves to avoid any changes. All changes are important and good, and the more changes we have the more we become aware. This process develops courage so we can live and enjoy life fully.

What makes you happiest?

People stepping out of their comfort zones, daring to be radically honest and different. That creates more peaceful, happier and sexier people compared to the ones who force themselves to conform.

Why do you write?

I would like to set an example to show what kind of liberation is achievable if one opens up to his vulnerabilities and sexual secrets. I also write about my death, my soulmate, reincarnation, bisexuality, transgenderism, orgies, celibacy, threesomes… All of these are chapters of my life and now they transformed into chapters of this book, representing a powerful message.

Have you always enjoyed writing? 

No, and I still don’t do, even though my storytelling supposed to be fascinating. I think this feedback is mainly based on the truth that is shared.

What motivates you to write?

I love to reach people who do not get on Youtube and TEDtalks. I have some of my lectures on Youtube but I haven’t managed to get on TEDtalks yet, but it will happen one day.

What are you most proud of in your personal life?

At the age of 13 I died. Heaven was absolutely heavenly. There I was given the free will to decide what shall happen with me. I opted to come back based on my ambition to help this world. This finally comes true with this book. I hold free of charge lectures and workshops, some of them are on Youtube. I also set up a free online forum where people can express themselves freely and learn from each other: www.sexandego.love As humans we need honest reference points especially when it comes to our sexuality.

What do you hope your obituary will say about you?

I honestly do not care. I was here and will be back thousands of more times. These are too many obituaries to keep track of.

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

I lived in Germany, Austria, Greece, Hungary, and spent the past 30 years in Los Angeles. Additionally, I had offices in Paris, London and New York, all of that had an imprint on me. In my childhood I was brutally beaten hundreds of times. Today I realize how uniquely this formed me to be who I am today. So yes, our individual realities that we take as the absolute application for everybody, represents only a 1/7 billionth fraction of what other realities are out there. Realities are individual interpretations and identifications of life experiences. This concept helped me a great deal to accept others and myself.

What is hardest – getting published, writing or marketing?

All of the above. Maybe the hardest thing is to get over my insecurities, which manifest in complacency. All of us can reach most of our goals after we get over our childhood traumas and learn to accept and believe in ourselves.

What marketing works for you?

I haven’t figured it out yet. If you have ideas, please contact me.

What other jobs have you had in your life?

I was a record company executive, back when music was sold on CDs and vinyls. I was also a sex worker, a captain for sailing yachts, a telephone marketer, life insurance sales person (the ones knocking from door to door), limousine driver, marketing executive for multi national real estate developers, and a marketing manager for a Korean car manufacturer. I have strong ADHD that comes with bad memory, so I was not able to secure a steady career for myself. My dysfunction disabled me to study even though I wanted to. But again, these factors forced me to become the liberated and fulfilled person that I reached becoming today.

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

Anthropology and Psychology.

Tell us about your family?

I had a bad divorce in 2005. My two sons suffered tremendously. Now they don’t speak to me. I needed to learn to accept my and their fates. I would love to be there for them, but they don’t allow me to.

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

Eventually I will reach 300,000 individuals readers, regardless if they pay for the book or not. I know they will contemplate about the content and that will be my greatest success to influence each reader at a time.

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

Hunter S. Thompson, Buddha, Mick Jagger, Dalai Lama, Christopher Walken, Osho, Jimmy Hendrix, Jesus Christ, Tiesto, Steve Jobs, Chris Farley, Jean Paul Satre and some kick ass readers of this book.

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

Humanity’s progress was powered by provocation and rebellion. My book is not a “cozy read.” It provokes, yet its raw honesty and erotica will entertain the reader. It will make them evaluate their lives and values. This book’s mission is not to make money or to gain respect, but to bring each reader closer to their authentic self, to make them realize that there is no need to conform, to feel oppressed and oppress others. Look how many women are mistreated by men, men who are cowards to liberate themselves from their social or religious angst. Look at all the sex trafficking in this world based on societies’ sexual hypocrisy. This book spells out the influence of the collective Ego.

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

Visit our new discussion Forums www.sexandego.love

These are my YouTube and FB page links:

Gregor’s latest video on his YouTube channel. Subscribe to his channel for more videos

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/sexandegodeath/

SEX, EGO AND LOVE on Amazon