Author Spotlight- Interview with Thriller Writer Oneal Walters

What would you like to promote?

I would like to mention two projects. The first mention is about my recent book, The Empty Couple, which is available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon. The second mention is more like an announcement, I am starting the writing process for my next book at the end of 2021.

 How do you make sales as an author?

In Canada, my sales are from word of mouth. In the US and UK, my sales are primary from Amazon ads. I sell more books in the US and my book was also 4th in ranking in the Domestic Partner category on Amazon. 

How do you come up with characters for your book?

First, I focus on the protagonist and antagonist of the story. In the case of The Empty Couple, the protagonist is Ruth and she lives with her boyfriend, Michael; who is the antagonist. It’s a unique structure because they are living as common-law partners; so for Ruth, the person you love the most is also the person who threatens your life.

 What influenced you the most?

I’m influenced by sales rankings. I’m influenced by great stories. I’m influenced by growth. I’m motivated by my family. I’m most influenced by my desire to materialize the visions within my head.

What advice do you have for new writers just starting out?

Let’s assume if you are a writer you enjoy writing. After the primary advice of research and write. I would say the second most important element to master is the ability to market and advertise your books. This is a must.

What is your favourite thing about being an author?

I enjoy writing a great story that hasn’t been told before. I enjoy the internal debate on whether to build a series or start with a new story. I enjoy hearing my son say, “daddy your name is on these books.”

Thank you Oneal for this lovely interview!

If you are a fellow writer, author, or blogger and want your own interview on go to https://noshwithchefjulie.com/contact/

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Author Spotlight- Interview with Sci-Fi Writer James R. Norwood

Tell us about yourself and how we can connect with you (links, website, social pages)

My website is https://www.threeworlds.net. I’m on Twitter @jrnorwood and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jrnorwood. I’m marginally on Instagram at jrnteach.

What is the name of your book or blog, and how did you get started?

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My book is called “A Trio of Worlds.” It is a Sci-Fi novel set about a hundred years into the future. I got started with this novel a few years ago when I sat down and wrote the first fifteen pages from an idea I had about an astronaut being stranded in space. I put the idea away and from time to time I would think of it or re-read it. I remember often thinking how great a story it could be. I finally decided to finish it when my wife asked me what I was interested in. It took me only a few weeks of writing to finish the first draft. 

What would you like to promote? (Add links, description, photos)

I would like to promote my newest novel, “A Trio of Worlds.” It is available on Amazon as an eBook or Kindle Unlimited, a paperback on Amazon, or an audiobook on Audible or iTunes.
Https://geni.us/Trio

What is your favorite movie that was based on a book?

I’d have to say my favorite book, Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett, is also my favorite movie, although it’s technically a mini-series. I’ve read the novel several times and once out of curiosity, I emailed Ken Follett to ask him about the possibility of a movie. To my shock, he emailed me back. He told me he didn’t have any current plans for an adaptation. Fast forward a few years and I found out that Starz was going to have a mini-series based on the book. Without even talking to my wife, I subscribed to Starz so I could watch it! I like to think I was the reason the book was adapted and that my question sparked Mr. Follett’s imagination. I’m sure I’m wrong though.

Do you connect with any of the characters in your book?

One of the strangest things I’ve observed as I wrote the first book and began work on the second in the series is that my characters really surprise me by their actions. I know that they are my own imagination, but when I’m “in the zone” of writing, my characters behave as if they are real, and sometimes what they say or do blow my mind. I don’t think I connect with them in the sense of them being like someone I know in real life, but I do feel like I connect with them because I can never wait to find out what they are going to do next!

What are you reading right now?

Right now I am reading “The Hollow Crown” by Dan Jones.

What is a typical day of writing look like for you?

I always try to set a goal of writing at least 2,000 words per day when I’m working on a project. I find this is not an unreasonable number to reach. Sometimes I don’t quite get there, especially on days like today when the scene I’m writing requires more research. Some days I write far more than the goal. It all depends on where I am in the story and how good I feel about what is happening with my characters.

What advice do you have for new writers just starting out?

I often see this question and I always think of myself. I would tell anyone who wants to write to just write! Put the words down on paper. You can always revise or rewrite your work, but it is incredibly satisfying when you realize that you actually wrote an entire novel. In the words of Dory from “Finding Nemo,” – just keep swimming!

What projects are you working on right now?

Right now I’m about 22,000 words into my second novel. It is a sequel to “A Trio of Worlds.” I’ve tentatively named it “Rise of the D’lai”, but as with Trio, the name could change. I originally called Trio “The Negotiator” until I had a moment of inspiration driving to pick up a swag bag from my employer. I expect to be finished with the rough draft in another month or so and then the hard work of editing and all that comes with that starts up! 

Any other information you would like to include for our readers?

Thank you James for a wonderful interview!

If you are a fellow writer, author, or blogger and want  your own interview go to https://noshwithchefjulie.com/contact/

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Author Spotlight- Interview with Historical Fiction Writer Elizabeth Martina

Tell us about yourself and how we can connect with you.

I live in the mountains and have plenty of beauty surrounding me. It is mostly calm except for my 75 lb Bernese Mountain dog, Hansel, and a husband who has many projects going all the time. My two adult children live far enough away that they can’t just stop in. But my son is now collaborating with me on my latest book.

I write historical fiction novels and novellas. I write a blog on my website (elizabethamartina.com) which talks about almost anything historical. For example, I have an ongoing series on Founding Mothers (women colonists of the 1600s) and an ongoing series on clothes and hairstyles from the past. These blog posts also show up on my Facebook page, “ElizabethAMartina, author” and my Twitter account, @eamartina.

I love getting letters and comments, which can be sent to elizabethamartina@gmail.com or to my website.

What genre do you write in?

I am all about history. Historical fiction, cozy mystery historical fiction, and straight history.

How do you come up with plots or characters for your book?

I am a genealogist as an avocation. My latest WIP is a result of research into the past for several people. The characters are there, in history, waiting for me to introduce them to the world. I often adapt real events into plots for the real characters. I was a fan of the Nero Wolfe detective series in high school and watched every detective TV show years later. I have gotten a few plot ideas from those shows. These plot ideas have been used in the Hadley Sisters Mysteries series. Promotion!

A year ago, I needed a break from a serious project. One day I was thinking of my college years living in Boston and how Boston looked before I got there. I had developed an affinity with Nero Wolfe detective stories and wanted something in that style, a cozy mystery with a slight bit of humor. My mind wandered and I had a story about two socialite sisters who get involved in criminal investigations. The time is 1939. The place is Boston. The sisters, in their early 20s, live an idyllic life. It is something out of a movie of the era, with lovely homes, beautiful clothes, and maids. But the girls are too intelligent and curious to live that life. A murder in the first book changes their world and they learn how to research and use gossip to get answers. It doesn’t hurt that they are dating Boston police detectives.

The sisters are very much the two sides of me, serious and organized (Betty) and impetuous at times (Kate). I have to be careful of their conversations and keep them in character. They have become my friends and I can tell what their reactions are going to be long before I get to a conversation.

The books are the Hadley Sisters Mysteries. The four books are The Matter of a Murder of a Maid, The Matter of a Missing Stutz, The Matter of a Misplaced Document, and, due out in June, The Matter of a Distressed Dressmaker. The books are short, 25,000-31,000 words, making them an easy weekend read. All are available in ebook and paperback at Amazon.

Amazon links for the first three:

The Matter of a Murder of a Maid

The Matter of a Missing Stutz

The Matter of a Misplaced Document

What was your favorite childhood book?

My interest was in biographies for children and the Betsy-Tacy series, by Maud Hart Lovelace, in elementary school. These two solidified my historical perspective. I also learned that I loved the ongoing series.

How did you get started?

Brought up in the US, but influenced by stories about my Italian relatives who immigrated half a century before, I learned the art of story-telling from my grandmother. Although I have always written stories, I really got started writing when my grandmother died. I wanted to write a story about her sad childhood. When I showed it to my mother, her initial comment was, that’s not how it happened! It turned out there were half a dozen variants in the family. So, I learned the art of genealogical research to find the real explanation. And ended up writing a book about a murder. My great grandmother’s murder. It is my first book, The Ragman Murders, which is also available at Amazon, by the way. After that, I was hooked on genealogy.

If you could learn how to make any food what would it be?

I am Italian, which means I think about food and cook more than occasionally. How I have stayed slim all these years is nothing short of a miracle. No matter what book I have written, there is always at least one scene of people eating or cooking. The first book described getting ready for an Italian Christmas Eve dinner as the characters prepared salted cod. I can cook anything Italian but I am not too good at cooking meat. I let my husband take care of the steaks. That is on my bucket list of things to learn.

What projects are you working on right now?

Four novellas later, I am putting the two sisters, Betty and Kate Hadley, on hold while I take up that more serious project, again. This is a little-known piece of history, telling the true story of the colonists who were the second and third generations in Jamestown, Virginia, and how they expanded the colony. The men and women who comprised those generations were determined to fight and win. Many are larger than life characters. There were two political upheavals during that time that no one knows about. Analyzing those upheavals gives us insight into the next 200 years of politics and slavery in the southern US. This may grow into a series of historical novels, although I haven’t decided yet.

Thank you Elizabeth for this lovely interview!

If you are a fellow writer, author, or blogger and want your own interview go to https://noshwithchefjulie.com/contact/

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Author Spotlight- Interview with Jamie Adams

Tell us about yourself and how we can connect with you (links, website, social pages)

My links are:

Blog: https://jamieadstories.wpcomstaging.com/

Website: https://jamieadstories.com/

Twitter: jamieadstories

What would you like to promote? 

My book is called ‘The Fathers, the Sons and the Anxious Ghost’ which is about three families shaken by a sudden loss and my latest project is a blog about reading, mental health and the environment. I find that I mainly book blog but I also have a keen interest in eco-issues and mental health relates nicely to both.

My blog is called JamieAdStories and I am enjoying getting to know my readers with a range of posts, including ‘5 Ways To’ and book reviews. Any excuse to discuss books and writing.

What inspires you?

I love so many different writers, including Joanne Harris, Matt Haig and Liane Moriarty, all of whom write in short chapters. This has very much inspired my own writing style. I also love how YA stories are relatable and bring back memories of growing up and going for goals.

What was your favourite movie that was based on a book?

I’d probably choose a classic that really stuck with me because it was so well made and the stars nailed it. Sense and Sensibility introduced Kate Winslet and showed Imelda Staunton and Emma Thompson as incredible actors as well as portraying Jane Austen’s world brilliantly.

What was your favourite childhood book?

Roald Dahl kept me entertained as a kid and The Witches has always been my favourite of his because the storyline was exciting, fun and heart-warming. The chilling Grand High Witch particularly stayed in my memory and it was great to see her get her comeuppance.

What is your favourite thing about being a writer and blogger?

My favourite thing about being a writer is creating characters, making them interesting and relatable. As a blogger, I love when people respond to my posts as I see a blog as a kind of conversation, open to contributions.

What projects are you working on right now?

I am halfway through editing my first YA novel about two teenagers who come across a neglected house and afterward become strangely overshadowed by it. The book is called ‘Being Watched’ and I look forward to it being published in autumn. Fingers crossed.

What does success look like to you?

I especially enjoy audience feedback. Seeing a friendly comment on my blog or reading a thoughtful review of my book will always make my day.

Thank you Jamie for this wonderful interview!

If you are a fellow writer, author, or blogger and want your own interview go to https://noshwithchefjulie.com/contact/

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Sent from my iPad

Author Spotlight- Interview with Thriller, Fantasy, and Sci-Fi Writer Rohan Elliott

Tell us about yourself and how we can connect with you (links, website, social pages)

Hi there everyone, I’m a West Australian writer that’s been writing in my spare time for almost a year now. I currently write short stories in a bunch of different genres but mainly Thrillers, Fantasy and Sci-Fi.

I’m also currently working on my first novel following the treasure hunter Chloe as she embarks on a globetrotting journey looking for the lost Spanish ship The Esperanza.

Asides from my short stories, I also do a weekly blog called The Writers Scrawl that covers everything pop culture with lists, reviews, first impressions and some more serious discussion pieces sprinkled in.

If you’re looking for some feedback on your work or some developmental editing, I’ve got that as well.

The links for all these here.

What would you like to promote? (Add links, description, photos)

I’d like to give a shoutout to the wonderful folks at Retro Replay. Not only do they have a great team of volunteer contributors to their blog (myself included) they also have a great podcast and weekly videos on YouTube and their site that you can check out here

What genre do you write in?

My short stories are a wide range of genres but I’ve got a couple of thrillers, some fantasy and sci-fi and even an adventure and horror stories. I enjoy writing in different genres as each has its own tropes and expectations that I can use and rework into something new and exciting.

How did you get started?

This entire adventure started back in high school, year 12, when we had a creative writing assignment to write a short story based on a prompt. We had ten weeks to work on the project and with a week to go I had no idea. I ended up panic writing my story in a couple of days and ended up getting the second highest mark in the class.

My teacher made a couple of notes that she enjoyed the story and that sparked a realisation in me that I could actually write. Then after high school, I ended up looking back at my short story and rewriting. That story eventually made it to my website as Hard Drive after quite a few rewrites and edits.

From then on, I’ve just been writing ever since and decided to start my website and blog almost a year ago.

What are you reading right now?

I’m currently reading a bunch of books at the same time all at different stages of completeness. The main ones are Frank Herbert’s Dune, Matthew Reilly’s The Tournament, and indie author Marco Ocram’s The Awful Truth About The Sushing Prize.

Who are your top three favorite authors?

1.    Matthew Reilly: I’ve had the opportunity to meet him twice now and his interview with Matt and Alex on Triple J is part of what inspired me to become a writer. His books were the first time I’d seen someone do fast paced action writing and made me realise that sort of writing can be done.

2.    Neil Gaiman: I first picked up Good Omens a couple of years ago and finished it within a couple of days. After that I bought American Gods and Stardust the very next day. His world and characters are always so unique and interesting to follow throughout the entirety of his books.

3.    Craig Silvey: A fellow West Australian author that’s not as prolific as the other two on the list (3 books over his career so far) but each of his books are at their heart, deeply personally stories for the characters that are genuinely heartbreaking in a way that I’ve never seen from any other author.

What is a typical day of writing look like for you?

At the moment I work full time so the only time I get to write is either after the work day at the afternoon, evening and night in some cases as well as the weekend.

I’ll normally try and write in bursts with some music or videos in on the background instead of dead silence.

What advice do you have for new writers just starting out?

The main piece of advice is not mine, but it is probably the most vital piece of advice you could offer to someone.

Don’t try and chase trends and write what you think people will want to read. Readers will see right through you and your book will fade into obscurity.

Instead, write what you enjoy reading and what you want to write. It may not get as much attention but readers will see your passion and the genuine love you have for your story and not dismiss it out of hand.

Thank you Rohan for this wonderful interview!

If you are a fellow writer, author, or blogger and want your own interview go to https://noshwithchefjulie.com/contact/

To read more author interviews click here https://noshwithchefjulie.com/category/author-interviews/

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To read more check out these interviews~

http://noshwithchefjulie.com/author-spotlight-interview-with-meryl-s-brown/?relatedposts_hit=1&relatedposts_origin=9985&relatedposts_position=2&relatedposts_hit=1&relatedposts_origin=9985&relatedposts_position=2

http://noshwithchefjulie.com/author-interview-kevin-barrick/?relatedposts_hit=1&relatedposts_origin=9985&relatedposts_position=1&relatedposts_hit=1&relatedposts_origin=9985&relatedposts_position=1

Author Spotlight-Interview with Journalist and Author Teresa Edmond-Sargeant

Tell us about yourself and how we can connect with you.

I’m an award-winning journalist and author. In October 2020, I released my first collection of dark fantasy short stories “Inner Demons,” available in ebook and as a paperback. I’m the author of the short story ebooks “Eve the First,” “For My Sister,” and “Sammy’s Butterflies.” 

In January 2021, I released my poetry ebook “A Symphony of Silence.” I will also release my debut love story fantasy novel “Warding Off Reality” in 2021. 

In my spare time, I enjoy reading, shopping, traveling, working out, volunteering, and filling my mind with useless factoids worthy of pop culture trivia games. I currently live in Orlando, Florida, with my family.

What would you like to promote? (Add links, description, and a photo!)

“Inner Demons,” my dark fantasy short story collection

Ebook: https://books2read.com/innerdemons

Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0578779463

“A Symphony of Silence,” my poetry collection

Ebook: https://books2read.com/asymphonyofsilence

My website/blog: www.teresa-edmond-sargeant.com

Amazon Author Page: www.amazon.com/teresaesargeant

Facebook: www.facebook.com/teresaesargeant

Twitter: www.twitter.com/teresaesargeant

Instagram: www.instagram.com/teresaesargeant

Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/teresaesargeant

What is your favorite thing about being a blogger, writer, or author?

• I love to tell stories from my perspective, traditionally told stories with fresh twists in their premises. Let’s face it: every story narrated throughout history has been told before in one form or another – nothing is new under the sun. Yet these similar stories are different because of each author’s perspective infused in them. All in all, I enjoy reading and writing stories with three-dimensional characters, witty dialogue, a unique and daring premise, and messages that make the reader think. My favorite genres to read are short stories, poetry, self-help, spiritual/religious, romance, satire, fantasy and sci-fi, and classic literature. As you can see, my literary taste is eclectic.  

How do you come up with plots or characters for your book?

• I can’t really say. I go through the day doing various activities, and ideas for plots and characters pop into my head. I have my notebook to jot them down. As well, I use Evernote, a notetaking and organizing app, to arrange my brainstorms, plot outlines, and character and setting sketches. Let me tell you, I have so many ideas for short stories, poems, and books dating back years! It does seem hard to keep up with ideas popping into my head and writing them down. However, bringing them to fruition as actual manuscripts then stories for people to read is a satisfying adventure in itself.  

What do you like to do for fun?

• I like shopping, reading, volunteering, traveling, watching documentaries and movies, and attending theatrical shows.

How did you get published?

• I have my own publishing imprint Heathermoors Book, which I publish just my titles. The name “Heathermoors” is derived from the setting of my favorite novel “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Bronte.

What helps you to stay motivated?

• I remind myself I’m not alone in my writing and publishing journey. Everybody makes mistakes, everyone has a learning curve. The most important factors of this journey are (a) I stay focused on my goals and (b) I have a terrific network of authors and fans to encourage me! The Central Florida author community is a thriving one, where we have a strong network of authors encouraging each other and learning from each other. I have grown a lot as a creative as a result of this group of people!

What projects are you working on right now?

• I’m in the editing process of a love story, a modern-day fairy tale set in a mental ward. It’s a passion project of mine, a story I’ve been wanting to tell, wanting to get out there in the world for many years. It has taken a lot of trial and errors in how to write this story, but it’s all coming together. The novel, “Warding Off Reality,” will be released this year (2021).

Any other information you would like to include for our readers?

• I just want to say thank you to all who had shown support for my work by purchasing and downloading my titles. Moments like these reassure me I should continue writing and publishing!

Thank you Teresa for this wonderful interview!

If you are a fellow writer, author, or blogger and want your own interview go to https://noshwithchefjulie.com/contact/

To read more author interviews click here https://noshwithchefjulie.com/category/author-interviews/

Author Spotlight- Interview with Tangela Williams-Spann and Her New Book-Sad, Black, and Fat: Musings from the Intersections

Tell us about yourself and how we can connect with you.

I’m Tangela Williams-Spann. I’m a lifestyle blogger and an essayist. My first book, Sad, Black, and Fat: Musings from the Intersections, is being released on August 5, 2021. You can find me @twillspann on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter.

What genre do you write in?

I write about mental health and wellness, weight loss and body positivity, and the experiences of being a Black woman in America. I also talk about social and cultural events as they are relevant.  Outside of essays, my creative writing centers on the slice of life genre. I like to examine those little moments that can change everything.

How did you get started?

I’ve loved making up stories since I was a kid. My earliest writing memories are around second grade. I won a schoolwide young author’s contest. My story was about a turkey that escaped from a hunter just before Thanksgiving. I got to attend a regional event and I loved the rush of attention being recognized for a talent gave me. I wasn’t the same since then.

What was your favorite childhood book?

Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein is still my favorite book of all time. Uncle Shelby has a way with words that rivals any author going, living or dead, in my opinion. Also, he uses pictures just as effectively to get his points across. He plays with alliteration and other literary devices that make the reader want to dabble in poetry as well. It did for me anyway.

What do you like to do for fun?

When I have a chance, I like to garden. Getting out into the yard and enjoying the sunshine does wonders for my mental health. Plus, I like to grow veggie and sunflowers. Both are edible and I can make better food choices right from my yard. I’m a big fan of the local botanical garden as well.

When I can’t get outside, I spend my time with video games, audiobooks or crochet. Something where I can turn my brain off for a while is a good time for me!

What advice do you have for new writers just starting out?

Just start writing. Write about your day. Write about what your dog is doing or thinking. Write about telling off your boss and walking out of your job, never to return. It doesn’t matter what you write about, just start doing it. You have to start flexing that creative muscle. Refining and perfecting come much later in the process, but you won’t have anything to polish if you never write it down.

What projects are you working on right now?

Currently, I’m working on blogging while my book is in the editing process. I try to post weekly on Saturdays and I’m relying on my readers to keep me accountable. Tell me you’re looking forward to my next post and I’ll have one ready every time!

What would you like to promote? (Add links, description, and a photo!)

If you want to follow out my work until the book is ready, you can check my website: twillspannwrites.com You can read my blog and get in contact with me for other interviews or engagements

Thank you Tangela for this lovely interview!

If you are a fellow writer, author, or blogger and want  your own interview go to https://noshwithchefjulie.com/contact/

To read more author interviews click here https://noshwithchefjulie.com/category/author-interviews/

Author Spotlight- Interview with Ann Swann and her book- Yeah, But I Didn’t

What inspires me? 

Anything and everything. Could be something I’ve read, something I’ve heard, or just something I’ve seen. I’ve lived on this earth for quite a few years, but I haven’t done a lot of traveling. Oh, I’ve been to Mexico – see my book ALL FOR LOVE for a tiny taste – and a few short days in Europe – check out THE REMAINS IN THE POND for a bit of that – and I’ve lived in and visited some beautiful places right here in the good old USA – the settings for STUTTER CREEK, LILAC LANE, and COPPER LAKE are all based on a couple of tourist towns I fell in love with while visiting the mountains of Colorado and New Mexico, but mostly I’ve stayed home, worked, and taken care of people. 

I’ve held many different jobs (from newspaper delivery girl to 911 dispatch operator to elementary school teacher) but through them all, I’ve been a writer. Beginning with my spiral notebook romance vignettes as a young teen, all the way through my award-winning short stories in college, I honed my craft with workshops and writing courses. 

While teaching school, I published a few short stories, but after taking a leave of absence to help out my ailing mom, I finally finished my first novel, STEVIE-GIRL AND THE PHANTOM PILOT. An excerpt from the book won a short fiction award and the interest of an editor from a new publishing company. That book (a novella, really) has been followed by three others in the STEVIE-GIRL series. They’re still my favorites. I am Stevie – in my mind, at least. She’s a fierce little thing…

What is my genre? 

The STEVIE-GIRL books are supernatural mysteries. The STUTTER CREEK books are mystery-thrillers. ALL FOR LOVE is women’s fiction. TELEPHONE ROAD is straight up revenge fiction with a touch of mystery (and good old romance), and TAKERS: APOCALYPSE IN EDEN, is my only foray into speculative horror (one reviewer wrote that it should be aimed at fans of Stephen King. I’ll take that. Heck, yeah!) Watch for SEEKERS. It’s the follow up to TAKERS, and I also have another women’s novel in the works, it may be my best book yet. One of those will be my best book yet.

Maybe I need to create a new genre … it could be called surviving against all odds … that seems to be a recurring theme in each of my books. Hmmm, I wonder why that is? Something in my past, perhaps? Oh, well, on to the next topic.

What advice do I have for writers just starting out?

 Read, read, read, then write, write, write. To paraphrase Toni Morrison, you must “Write the book you would like to read.” I think the best advice I was ever given was to develop thick skin. That doesn’t mean reviewers can be completely ignored, but it does mean you have to be tough enough to take their criticism. If you can’t, then you’re in the wrong profession. I would also enroll in writing classes at every turn simply because you will be subjected to deadlines, critics, and probably some very strong writers from which to learn. I’ve never regretted a single class. Learned something in each and every one of them.

What do I do for fun?

 Right now, fun for me is sitting in front of the TV with my hubby or reading a book in my favorite chair. I listed TV and hubby first because we were separated from one another for two months while we each recovered from COVID-19. I was hospitalized, and on a ventilator, and he was bedridden at home with COVID-pneumonia. Thank the good Lord for front-line folks and our family and friends. The doctors and nurses saved me, and the family and friends saved my husband. They literally forced him to get out of bed and eat and drink and walk when he didn’t want to move. They also picked up his prescriptions and brought food and drink every day while he was down. I can’t thank them enough. Slightly off-topic from what do you like to do for fun but trust me … now that we’ve both stared death in the dark eye, fun has taken on an entirely new meaning.

Finally, if I could have superpowers, what would they? 

That’s easy. My superpower would be to wave a magic wand of kindness. If everyone were kind, what a world that would be. 

Book Links and Public Contact Information:

Author website:https://www.authorannswann.com

Amazon:http://www.tinyurl.com/bmrsong

Barnes & Noble: http://tinyurl.com/cfakkue

Smashwords: http://tinyurl.com/8besl3w

Kobo: http://tinyurl.com/hx72y82

iTunes: http://tinyurl.com/hlflu9k

Audible: https://tinyurl.com/yxp4pldx

Facebook: www.facebook.com/annswann.books

Goodreads: http://tinyurl.com/6vuw7vl

Twitter: @ann_swann

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annswann.author/

Thank you Ann for this lovely interview!

If you are a fellow writer, author, or blogger and want  your own interview go to https://noshwithchefjulie.com/contact/

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Author Spotlight- Interview with Fiction Writer Jon Bolitho-Jones

What would you like to promote?

Well, I would like to promote my book When the World Falls Down. It’s a quirky YA Fantasy story – Douglas Adams meets CS Lewis and the film Labyrinth. Link found right here: https://www.troubador.co.uk/bookshop/young-adult/when-the-world-falls-down/

I am also here to promote myself too! I am a writer/actor from the northwest of England. Here’s my Twitter handle: @JonBolihtoJones. and here’s my writing website: https://www.jonbolithojonesauthor.co.uk/

What does success look like to you?

Oooo that’s quite a question. For me, it would be making a full-time living from my books and my writing, interspersed with a bit of performance too. It’s also having people enjoy my work and being recognized as a writer.

What genre do you write in?

Fantasy. Well I mostly write YA fantasy but I’m also trying my hand at Science Fiction and Horror – the genres often being mixed together.

What was your favorite childhood book?

That would be the Redwall series by Brian Jacques. Absolutely brilliant. If you know Animals of Farthing Wood or Watership Down, well it was basically that but with swords, lots of fighting, and classic fantasy tropes.

How did you get started with writing?

In some ways, I have always enjoyed making up magical, fantastical worlds, though it was only when I was 11 that I began to write them all down. After lots of false starts though I started When the World Falls Down, completed it and then wanted to share it with the world. When it comes to actually create a story and getting it down in a Word document I generally begin by coming up with an idea, or simply choosing one from my bank of ideas. I then write out a loose chapter by chapter plan and then start writing and getting it done. I do a bit each day, approximately 2,000 words, and so steadily it gets written. The first draft is usually a mess so then it goes to the editing stage, which is pretty long, but that’s where the real work begins.

How do you attract new readers?

Generally what I have tried so far is posting blog articles and free short stories. Along with that, I engage with people on social media when I can, especially on Twitter. Pretty much everything is done online really.

Do you connect with any of the characters in your book?

Yes. I tend to write from my own emotional experiences, so there are little parts of me found in almost all of my main characters. However, my lead is actually based on my wife.

What is your favorite thing about being a blogger, writer, or author?

It has to be when someone reads my works and really enjoys them. Positive reviews are great, though I also like sitting and chatting about the lore, characters, and mysteries of my book with anyone who is interested.

How do you make sales as an author?

I’m not quite sure so far. I’m still experimenting at the moment. I’ll let you know when I find out!

What are you reading right now?

The Hobbit. I’ve just finished Anthony Beevor’s book about the Spanish Civil War though. I know – very different material.

What is your favorite genre to read?

Fantasy, SciFi, and historical non-fiction

What is your favorite comfort food?

Chocolate, though on savory days cheese. I am also a sucker for charcuterie boards.

Who are your top three favorite authors?

Tolkien, Walter Moers, and Terry Pratchett

How do you come up with plots or characters for your book?

Happy accidents maybe? In reality, I draw inspiration from everywhere whether books, films, TV shows, videogames, moments, personal experiences, and then gradually ideas form into something tangible in my head. These are then written down in “ideas” documents so I don’t forget them. Some of these ideas actually get combined too. I have a character (and race) in my book who was originally intended for something else.

If you could learn how to make any food what would it be?

That’s another tricky one… My answer – all the food! I like cooking and it’d be nice to know how to make everything and know exactly what goes well with each other for dinner parties.

What do you like to do for fun?

I am a big geek really, in particular miniature wargaming. I collect Warhammer, and though I’m not a great painter, I like to put them together, create new characters and frightening new worlds. I also like board games, reading, and old-school video gaming (no Fortnite or Call of Duty for me!)

What advice do you have for new writers just starting out?

Get on that social media as soon as you can. Even if you’d don’t have a book out, start building up that author platform and making connections. Also, prepare for disappointment and rejection, find good reliable people to read the work that gives you honest feedback, and keep pushing on with your writing and creating.

What helps you to stay motivated and keep writing?

I would say stubborn determination and the thrill of creating new stories and worlds. I write for fun too sometimes.

What projects are you working on right now?

I’ve actually just finished the 2nd book of my other YA fantasy series. Only the first draft though, so it still needs a lot of work. Along with that I am also querying my manuscripts and reading a short story for a competition. Perhaps most importantly I am in the very early stages of publishing the sequel to When the World Falls Down.

Thank you Jon for a wonderful interview!

To connect with Jon and read more check out these links~

When the World Falls Down – https://www.troubador.co.uk/bookshop/young-adult/when-the-world-falls-down/

Our Little Patch of Paradise – https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0872XZPBM

The Clown in the Basement – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Clown-Basement-Edimorian-short-story-ebook/dp/B08JK7SVKQ

Website – https://www.jonbolithojonesauthor.co.uk/post/10-things-you-need-to-know-before-visiting-edimor

If you are a fellow writer, author, or blogger and want  your own interview go to https://noshwithchefjulie.com/contact/

To read more author interviews click here https://noshwithchefjulie.com/category/author-interviews/

Author Spotlight-Interview with Elsie McArthur

Let us know a little about yourself and how we can connect with you via website, blog, books, and social media sites.

My name is Elsie McArthur and you can find me on-

• Facebook @ElsieMcArthurAuthor
• Instagram @elsiemcarthur.author
• Twitter @ElsieMcarthur
• I also have a Goodreads and an Amazon Author page.

What is the name of your blog or book and how did you get started?

My first book is called ‘The Back Up Plan’ and was released in January 2020.

My second novel is called ‘Love, on the Rocks’ and will be published on the 20th August 2020.

I’ve always written stories, scribbling them down and coming up with random ideas. I started writing more seriously five years ago when I was on maternity leave with my first child.

What is your favorite food?

My favorite food! That’s such a hard question! I love to cook and bake. My favorite meal would probably be spaghetti bolognese with garlic bread and a nice glass of red wine. I have a major sweet tooth though, and pretty much constantly crave chocolate!

If you could learn how to make any food what would it be?

One food I’d love to know how to make is authentic french pastries, like croissants and pain au chocolat. I’ve made full puff pastry once before and it was incredible, but so much work.

What is your favorite thing about being a blogger, writer, or author?

My favorite thing about being an author is having an outlet for all the random musings that pop into my head on a daily basis!

What advice do you have for new writers just starting out?

For new writers who are considering going down the self-publishing route, I would recommend really putting in the research when it comes to marketing and promoting your book.

I pretty much just shoved mine on Amazon and hoped for the best! It’s only more recently that I’ve been building a platform on social media and looking into other avenues to advertise my work.

How do you attract new readers?

Recently, I’ve been trying to attract new readers by doing a bit more self-promotion online (I was a bit embarrassed to do this at first!) and also reaching out to lovely bloggers like yourself who are willing to do features or reviews for indie authors.

What is your favorite genre to read?

My favorite genre to read is probably chick-lit, which is what I write. I also enjoy a good crime thriller or mystery. I need to be in the mood for it though. Generally, I prefer my reading material to be happy and feel good.

What are you reading right now?

Right now I’m reading a paranormal romance by a fellow Indie Author, Eva Alton. I don’t tend to go for paranormal stories as a genre, but it’s paired with a lovely contemporary romance which I’m really enjoying.

What projects are you working on right now?

At the minute, I’m sort of juggling three projects, but they’re all at different stages. The first is a historical romance – a foray into a slightly different genre for me! The second is a follow up to ‘The Back-Up Plan’, but I’m not sure if I’ll proceed with this. Some readers asked if there would be a sequel. This got me thinking about it, but I wouldn’t want to do it just for the sake of doing it. I need to be sure that I have an interesting story to tell.

Independently of the first book so that I’m able to develop the characters in meaningful ways. The third is really my main focus at the minute – it’s another chick-lit book. It’s set in the Highlands of Scotland called ‘The Accidental Laird’. I’m really excited about this one and hoping to have it finished and published before the end of the year, so watch this space!

Thank you  Elsie for such a great interview!

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