Interview with Fantasy Author Serena Clarke

Serena Clarke has loved writing since she was young and has taken several writing classes. Her favorite genre is fantasy with a hint of romance. Serena has a Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design. She enjoys designing her book covers as much as writing her books. This is Serena’s first published novel.

“This story is captivating and has many twists and turns. It gives a new dimension to fantasy characters. It was difficult to put down.” –Linda Weaver Clarke, Author

Hello, Serena! Welcome to my blog. Please tell us about The Treasure of Isian. What is it about?

Prince Garin is a brave, proud, adventure-seeking prince. Elani is his most trusted servant and she would do anything for him, even die for him. Their quest to find the mystical Treasure of Isian is immediately interrupted and they find themselves confronted by angry giants, soul-stealing elves, bewitched dragons, a vengeful water-witch, battling foes, and a mysterious kingdom. Elani must face her greatest fears to save her prince and her kingdom. Garin must decide what the most important things are in his life. Will they be able to make a great sacrifice to save the kingdom? And will Elani find true love?

Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

Most of my ideas for my books come from dreams I have had. I had a dream about a prince who had a servant who had to do everything he told her to do. He relied on her. And her world revolved around him. And then suddenly she was unable to do everything for him and their relationship changed. When I awoke from this dream, all that day I could not stop thinking about it. What would such a relationship be like? And how would it evolve? And why did she have to do everything he told her to do? I had most of the storyline written in my head by the end of the day. And it became The Treasure of Isian!

What is it about fantasy that you love most?

I love that anything can happen! In fantasy you are not restricted by society or politics or history. Whether reading it or writing it, I love escaping into a world that is different than the one I live in. A world where there are princes and princesses, warriors, treasure, mystical creatures that you can’t be sure if they are good or bad, true love, happy endings, mystery.

Wow! I completely understand what you’re saying. What does your family think about your writing, especially your mom and dad?

My parents are my greatest encouragement! I have always loved to write, ever since I was a little kid. And I have always wanted to get a book published. But without the encouragement from my parents, I don’t know if I ever would have gone through with it. Thanks Mom for all your help!

You’re welcome, my darling daughter. I couldn’t have a better daughter and friend, and I love you very much. Okay, it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

I have a bucket list that I am currently working on. Things that range from “scream as loud as you possibly can” to “drive a wicked cool car” to “go to Europe”. So far, one of the weirdest things I have done on my bucket list was milking a goat. Coolest things I have done so far are “get a book published,” “ride in a helicopter” and “go to Hawaii.”

Awesome! Hey, you forgot to mention going to a Josh Groban Concert. As I remember, you were quite elated. In fact, that’s all you talked about and listened to for several months. Here’s a picture of you at his concert. Hmm, you look very happy. Haha. Thanks for this awesome interview. For those interested, Serena has received several 5 star reviews. I have posted excerpts below.

QUOTES FROM REVIEWERS:

Superb story that brought a smile to my face and helped me remember that sometimes, we can overlook the most valuable treasures in life if we're not careful. –Charissa Stastny, Author of Eyes of Light

I love a good fairy-tale. This one is delightful. I liked watching the mystery unfold and guessing how the characters would overcome the challenges they faced. –Cheryl Larson

If all fantasy was written like this, I might read more fantasy. –Debbie Curto

This was a great book! An adventurous tale that was quick paced! Something new always happened and there wasn't a moment to get bored! And who doesn't love a good love story? Loved it! –Amarissa Hancey

Interview with Children’s Author Gail Westover

Gail Westover has a little secret. Today the secret will be revealed. Gail is author Tika Newman. For the past seven years, she’s hidden under this name. You see, Gail is an online Backgammon Tourney Director for GammonSite. She’s been hosting tourneys for almost nine years. Everyone knows her as Tika, so writing under that name seemed the logical thing to do. Gail is also the owner and operator of Thistlewood Publishing, since its conception in 2008. She is the author of The Eyes of Innocence series and a historical novel called For the Love of Anne.

Welcome back to my blog, Gail. You are the author of the popular series The Eyes of Innocence, which is about a girl growing up with psychic abilities and the power to heal. I read it and was very impressed with the story. You have now turned to children’s books. Please tell us about your books.

Thank you so much, Linda. I’m happy to be invited back. As grandmother to two large, and five little ones, they’ve reminded me of some things that we tend to forget as we grow older and adult things get in the way. One is to laugh with joy and wild abandon. I’ve also relearned to notice the small things, like a butterfly flitting across my yard and landing on one of my flowers. I appreciate the squeal of laughter as the kids go barreling down a slide or jump into the lake. Basically, they’ve taught me not only how to love them with every fiber of my being, but also to enjoy my life again. Yes, I still work seven days a week, but it’s more fun now.

Mrs. Mouse’s Garden Party in Giggleswick Village is the first book of the Giggleswick Village series. The book teaches children that it’s ok to be themselves and to make the best out of a plan that goes wrong. Each book will teach life’s early lessons. The next book will be about bullying.

If Horses Had Feathers and Pigs Could Fly sounds silly, and that’s a good thing, because the entire book is silly. Kids laugh as they learn to use their imagination, when they read about the horse that has wings, the duck that flies upside down, and the little boy who is on the ground squinting his eyes at them. It’s a wonderful “feel good book” and is perfect for bedtime because it leaves them with happy thoughts that will encourage pleasant dreams.

Compared to novels, I assume Children’s stories are simple. Is this true?

If you write only novels, you would think that statement is correct, but it is not. The stories may be short, but we have at least eighteen months in the first Giggleswick Village book.

What kind of research did you have to do?

As of yet, I have not had a whole lot of research, but that will change with the bullying book. I did search online for a silly name. Giggleswick Village is a real place in North Yorkshire, England. The minute I saw the name, I knew it was perfect. The illustrations were hand drawn by a very talented woman in New Zealand. Coordinating and designing the characters took a very long time because the characters in this first book will probably be in every Giggleswick book to come. We had to keep merchandising in mind, as well as coloring books, puzzles, and some other things. The other difficult thing was that the mouse is modeled after my real life best friend, who really is a nurse, loves the color pink, is incredibly polite, kind to everyone, etc. The animal characters? They’re all my grandchildren. 

Thanks to these two children’s books, Thistlewood Publishing had its best month ever. I couldn’t be more pleased. 

Congratulations! That’s wonderful. And I really love the name Giggleswick. By the way, I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. Do you ever put real experiences in your books?

I haven’t done it yet in the children’s books, but in The Eyes of Innocence series, yes. The deer in the woods, the snapping turtle, and some other things were true life experiences.

Thank you, Gail, for this fun interview. Your books sound fascinating. To learn more about these books, visit http://www.thistlewoodpublishing.com. However, if you want Gail’s autograph, you must order your book from her website.

Interview with Author Emily Mah Tippetts

Emily Mah Tippetts writes science fiction and fantasy as Emily Mah and chick lit and YA as E.M. Tippetts. Originally from New Mexico, she now lives in London with her family. She has a bachelors degree in philosophy, politics and economics from Oxford University and a juris doctorate in business law from UCLA. During her career as an attorney, she did real estate, contracts, and estate planning with a specialty in literary estate planning.

Welcome back to my blog, Emily. Please tell us about your new book, Castles on the Sand.

Madison Lukas knows her place in the world. She’s not pretty, not interesting, and therefore easy to forget. John Britton is serving his mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and has been praying for fifteen years to find the sister he lost in his parents’ divorce. He remembers her as beautiful, talented, and makes kindness a fine art.

When John and Madison cross paths, he recognizes her at once, but Madison is certain that he’s got it all wrong. Even if she is his long-lost sister, she can’t possibly be the exceptional, amazing girl he thinks she is, can she?

This book sounds intriguing. Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

I’d like to think I write strong women characters, but I never want my stories to exclude or marginalize men. This book is specifically about the difference a good man can make. One of my childhood schoolmates passed away as I was working out the plot for this book, and my memories of him are throughout the whole plot and many of the characters. It breaks my heart to know that he won’t see his children grow up, but I know that even the few years he had with them will make all the difference in their lives.

What kind of research did you do for this book?

Unfortunately, I’ve learned a lot of the negative stuff from life, though not my own life, per se. While I’ve never had a child taken away by the state, this happened to a close friend of mine and so I helped her research the law and procedures. I’ve also known and done some legal work for people who have disabled family members, which is another of the subplots of the book. When I put together this plot, it was with two small children underfoot at all times, so I incorporated things I already knew (with a little fiction mixed in - don’t try to use my book as a legal guide!)

Wow! Being an attorney has its advantages, doesn’t it? I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. Do you ever put real experiences in your books?

Unfortunately, yes. Though I’ve changed things around a lot, the Beale family and their issues are very close to a real life child abuse situation I saw as a kid. We never understood why they treated their daughter like they did. I think writing them was my attempt to understand what I saw as a child, and at the end of the day, I just don’t get it. I can relate to parents who feel overwhelmed, or who fear losing “control” of a child. I can relate to feeling embarrassed when a child acts out and the desire to keep up appearances in public. What I can’t understand is the distance they keep from their daughter. The lack of attempts to engage with her and talk to her. Perhaps its fear, perhaps its laziness, perhaps it’s a failure to bond. Maybe at the end of the day, I don’t want to understand it.

Thank you, Emily, for this interview. I have learned more about you and the inspiration behind your book.

Interview with Fantasy Author Brian Rathbone

A former horse trainer, avid reader, and eventual technology junkie, Brian Rathbone began chasing the dream of writing for a living in 2005. Now working on his sixth and seventh novels, Rathbone's goal of full-time writing is coming to fruition. When he's not writing, Rathbone helps people in rural areas get increased access to broadband Internet; this is work he plans to continue in the future, since the need is so great. In the time that remains, he helps his wife care for the spoiled rotten cats they've rescued.

Welcome back to my blog, Brian. So…you have “spoiled rotten cats,” eh? Haha. Please tell us about your fantasy book, Regent.

REGENT is book one of The Balance of Power trilogy, which continues the story that began with The Dawning of Power trilogy. Catrin Volker's tenuous ties with the regent dragons, as well as with her own people, will be tested. Black ships of unknown origin come with feral dragons as escorts, and Catrin will be forced to choose between her loyalty to the dragons and the loyalty to her own people. The fates of entire species hang on the choices she must make.

This is part of a series called Godsland Series. Where did you get your inspiration for this series?

A deep love for books and reading, especially speculative fiction, combined with a knack for telling stories developed a belief within me that I would write my own stories one day. Training horses professionally for so many years gave me insight into a number of old world skills and realities, which helped me connect with so much fantasy fiction books and series. I had lived something of an old world life in the new world, and then I left it behind. I decided to chase after my passion for technology, and I did things that I would never have dreamed possible. It was stressful, though, and I found myself having trouble sleeping. After writing code all day, I would continue to do so in my dreams. While occasionally productive (I somehow successfully debugged code in my sleep), it was exhausting. I solved the problem by spending the moments, between wakefulness and sleep, dreaming up my plot and characters and world. My dreams were a lot more fun and, as it turns out, still very productive. When I finally got the chance to write, I couldn't type fast enough. Still can't.

What kind of research did you do for this book?

I can't claim to have done a massive amount of research above and beyond my experience as a horseman and farmer. I did, however, do good bit of reading on seamanship. This was an area where I had almost no experience and my preconceptions were clichéd. I had to put some effort into accurately portraying my characters' time at sea. There are also a number of fantastic elements in my books that are based on real science and physics, even if dramatized. I did some additional research on these ideas that stemmed from my experiences.

I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. I remember how you added your own experiences about horses in book one. Have you done this with Regent as well?

Bits of real life have a tendency of finding their way into my books. My wife occasionally accuses me of using her for material, which is true of course. I have a very close connection with animals; there are animals and animal behaviors in my books that are drawn directly from real life. It was also a special thing for my mother when her experience outsmarting my father, uncle, grandfather, and an uncatchable horse made it into the first book. Life is the best inspiration I know, and I expect real events and characters to show up in my future works as well.

Thank you, Brian, for this wonderful interview. I have learned a lot about you, your books, that your sweet wife helps you with material for your books… and your love for cats. Otherwise, why are they spoiled rotten? Right?

Interview with Sweet Romance Author Anne Patrick

Anne Patrick is the author of more than a dozen novels of Romance, Mayhem & Faith. Anne looks at the dark side of life while her alter ego writes Inspirational Romance. Anne’s books may be darker in subject matter, but they all carry messages of hope and faith. Born and raised in Oklahoma, she now makes her home in Kansas.

“Anne Patrick’s heroines are usually strong willed, witty, and often very opinionated … combinations that usually land them in situations where death seems imminent.”

Welcome back to my blog, Anne. You’re known for writing “Stories of Romance, Mayhem & Faith.” Please tell us about your book, Fire Creek.

Thanks for having me, Linda. Here is the blurb for Fire Creek: Kasey Montgomery has returned to her hometown of Fire Creek Montana after the apparent suicide of her cousin. Within days of Beth's funeral, Kasey begins to find inconsistencies in her death. The local sheriff is quick to dismiss the allegations as figments of a writer's imagination. Kasey is determined to prove otherwise. Does the bronzed skinned stranger from Beth's funeral hold the answers?

Local park ranger, Jimmy Little Raven suspects foul play too. Beth was engaged to his best friend who died months earlier from a mysterious accident. Risking his heart and his job, he teams up with the famous mystery writer to find the answers to both deaths.

Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

Initially, back in the nineties when I first came up with the idea, this story was titled DEADLY VISIONS and it was going to be a paranormal. When I went back and finished the story last year I decided to take out the paranormal aspect because, let's face it, the market is flooded with these type of books and I'm really out of my element writing one. As to what inspired it, I was a huge fan of Murder She Wrote. This story/series is based very loosely on that premise. Kasey is a lot younger though, and she has a handsome sidekick, or partner in crime, in Jimmy Little Raven.

What kind of research did you do for this book?

I did a lot of research on the Blackfoot tribe, the area of Montana where I wanted to place my fictional town of Fire Creek, and the laws concerning real estate and executorship.

Thanks. I enjoy finding out what kind of research an author does. I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. Do you ever put real experiences in your books?

I sometimes do. For instance, for a little over five years, I worked for a security transport agency where I was part of a two-person team, a retired cop and myself. We transported prisoners to and from court or to correctional facilities. We also did extradition work. One trip we went on we visited seven different states in two weeks, transporting over twenty inmates. Now that was interesting! Two of the most scariest places I've visited was the Fulton County jail in Atlanta GA, and the Dade County jail in Miami, Florida. I've met lots of interesting (and sometimes very dangerous) characters and I've had some pretty exciting times doing this work. I sometimes miss it but not often ;).

Oh my gosh! I can't even imagine going into a facility like a prison. That must have been interesting.

It was an interesting job. Being inside one when there is a lock down is the worst. That happened my first time out. We were at a women's prison in Tulsa and had just arrived.  I never will forget the sound of those metal doors closing and locking and not knowing what was going on. It sent shivers down my spine that's for sure.

Wow! I love finding out the background of an author. Very interesting! Thanks for the great interview. I learned a lot.

Fire Creek can be purchased at Amazon or at Christianbook.com and other online bookstores.

Interview with Sweet Romance Author Jewel Adams

Jewel Adams has written several books in different genres, mainly romance, and is also a motivational speaker to both youth and adult audiences. She and her husband Sean are the parents of eight children and grandparents to five and counting. In her spare time (when she has any) she likes to curl up with a good book and a healthy stash of orange Tic Tacs.

Welcome back to my blog, Jewel. I love your book cover. Please tell us about this sweet romance: Beautiful In My Eyes.

This is a novella about a beautiful woman who is completely happy with her life, but soon deals with a trial that makes her begin to doubt her worth. She has a loving husband that loves her unconditionally and is determined to prove to her that her value to him is priceless.

Where did you get your inspiration for this novel? Do you ever put real experiences in your books?

Well, Giselle's trial is one I have been dealing with for years, not to the same extreme, but enough that I can understand exactly how she feels. Fortunately, I also have an amazing husband whose love is also unconditional, and despite my insecurities, he tells me I'm beautiful every day, and shows me as well.

What kind of research did you do for this book?

I really didn't have to do much. Since the heroine's trial is hair loss, I just looked up the various forms of Alopecia, from mild to extreme, and I looked up the symptoms, as well as treatment options. Sadly, in most cases, once you have reached a point, nothing can be done to stop it and the hair loss continues its course. Emotionally, it is devastating.

That is so interesting. Your writing style is fun. Most authors write in past tense, but you write in present tense. How does this affect your writing or story?

I just love writing in present tense because it kind of puts the reader right there in the moment. At least, that’s what they tell me:-)

Thank you, Jewel, for a wonderful interview. I love your book cover. I’ve been told that book covers really help to sell the book.

Interview with Author Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen

R.K. Hinrichsen (Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen) writes both fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. She enjoys history, fantasy, suspense, and learning about real-life heroes. Besides her Heroes of the Highest Order, chapter book series, she has published two suspense novels, Missing and Trapped. She travels with her husband throughout the world in search of fun settings and exciting characters for her stories.

Welcome back to my blog, Ronda. Please tell us about your new children’s book.

The Prisoner of the Shadows is book #2 in my Heroes of the Highest Order series. It’s about two children, Dan and Page, who move between a fantasy world and real-life history to earn powerful treasures that will eventually help them destroy the enemy of the Hidden Kingdom. In this book, the children walk in the footsteps of Mother Teresa to rescue their grandfather from the Prison of the Shadows.

This is a new experience for you since you usually write suspenseful sweet romances. Where did you get your inspiration for this story?

This series has been in my mind for so long I really can’t remember where the idea first came from. I’ve just always thought children are amazing. They have the power to do great things, and I want to encourage them to do those great things.

What kind of research did you do for this book?

Besides traveling to some of the settings, I read biographies about Mother Teresa. I also contacted her official organization for permissions and correct information.

That is so awesome. I’m impressed with your research. I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. Do you ever put real experiences in your books?

Most definitely! Especially in this series because the premise of the story is that the children follow in the footsteps of real, historical heroes.

This book sounds like a wonderful book for children. Thanks for this fun interview.

Interview with Romance/Adventure Author Caroline Clemmons

Caroline and her husband live with their menagerie of rescued pets on a small acreage in North Central Texas. She has two grown daughters and is the award-winning author of ten fiction books, three novellas, and two family books. Caroline writes full time. When she’s not writing, she’s spending time with family, reading, traveling, researching genealogy, or browsing antique malls and estate sales.

Welcome back to my blog, Caroline. Please tell us about your cozy mystery, Digging For Death.

Thank you for asking. DIGGING FOR DEATH is the first of the Heather Cameron mysteries. She has taken over managing her family’s garden center and landscape design business from her grandfather. Her parents died when she was eight and her maternal grandparents raised her. This is her first major design project since she assumed control and she wants it to go well so her grandfather will know he was right to retire.

Here’s the blurb: Garden center manager Heather Cameron is DIGGING FOR DEATH to prove her old family friend, mentor, and employee, Walter Sims, is innocent of murdering the meanest man in town. Heather can’t trust the police to find the real killer when all clues point to poor Walter. The dead man was beaten to death with Walter’s shovel several hours after they were overheard arguing, and the two men had a long history of enmity. Walter definitely looks guilty, but Heather is sure—well, almost positive—okay, she certainly hopes her friend and mentor is innocent.

Heather is compelled to scour the fictional North Central Texas town of Gamble Grove to exonerate her old friend. She’s encouraged when the new police detective in town, Kurt Steele, shows interest in helping her look for clues. The deeper Heather digs into the dead man’s life, the more she justifies his ruthless reputation. Walter is indicted, but police begin to suspect the victim’s stepson as murderer. Heather is convinced the stepson couldn’t have murdered anyone either—although it’s clear no love was lost between the two men. The attempted murder of the victim’s real son creates a new twist. Can Heather solve the murder without becoming the killer’s next victim?

Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

It came to me when my family and I were at Weston’s Gardens in Fort Worth. Weston’s is a family-run center and they do landscape design and have a nice garden open on special days. You know how it is once your mind starts going “what if” and you come up with a cast of characters who just won’t stop talking to you. ☺ Then when my family were in Jefferson, Texas, I spotted the house that would be perfect for my book. I took lots of photos so I could be certain to remember it, but they weren’t necessary because the house exactly matched the one in my head.

That is so interesting. What kind of research did you do for this book?

I loved flower gardening, until our electric water well got too low to have a successful garden, and I used to spend several hours a day working on my plants and lawn. Roses are my favorite flower, and at one time we had almost fifty roses across the front yard. Now we just have a few of the new Earthkind drought and disease resistant roses plus a pink wild rose my daughter brought me from her acreage east of Dallas. I have a friend, Jeanmarie Hamilton, whose family used to have a garden center, and I picked her brain. My eldest daughter is a Master Gardener and helps me also. I visited garden centers, especially Weston Gardens, and read gardening books. I also read about some of the heirloom and trendy plants, how they’re marketed, and generally immersed myself in gardening books.

I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. Do you ever put real experiences in your books and why?

Sort of. The great-grandmother in DIGGING FOR DEATH is based on a cross between my mom and a friend who is currently 104. My mom was decorous until she was in her late 80’s, then she said whatever popped into her head -- whether it was nice or not. Don’t get me wrong, she was a wonderful woman and mother who worked hard all her life. I suppose she was entitled to be eccentric after all that time. 

In addition, Linda, I believe we compress our life experiences and extricate whatever we need for our books, don’t you? We each have experienced anger, sadness, determination, and many other feelings on which we can draw for writing. We pull out this characteristic or that backstory and use it, but we aren’t using the whole of any person’s identity or events.

Thank you so much for this interview, Caroline. I really enjoyed it. This is an ebook giveaway and we have many other ebooks below to enter. Have fun checking them out.

Interview with Sweet Romance Author Ruth J. Hartman

Ruth is a multi-published author of sweet, funny romances, a children’s book and a memoir. She also works part-time as a dental hygienist. She’s been married for 30 years to her best friend Garry. They live in rural Indiana with their two spoiled cats.

Welcome back to my blog, Ruth. You write Humorous Contemporary Romance. Please tell us about Better Than Catnip.

Roxy Williams loves cats more than anything. She runs a stray cat shelter and that’s pretty much her life. Until she meets Derek Weller and his dad, Max. Derek has to complete community service for fighting in school and the only available place is the cat shelter. Derek has only lived with Max for a short time, due to his parents not being together. So Max is unaware that Derek had a bad experience as a little boy and is now terrified of cats. Max and Roxy try to figure out how to help Derek while at the same time, figure out where they stand with each other.

Every story you write has humor and includes a mischievous cat. Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

I think I used a little bit of every cat I’ve ever had (and that’s a lot!) for this one J. There are over thirty cats in Roxy’s stray cat shelter, so that’s lots more purrs and meows to go around.

What kind of research did you do for this book?

I already knew a lot about cats and their care, but I did do some research on actual rescue sites. Two of the cats we’ve had have been from rescues, also, so I had those experiences. Also, since I’ve live-trapped and had neutered and released, over a dozen cats myself, that part of the story was partly my experience, too.

I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. Do you ever put real experiences in your books?

Roxy, the heroine is goofy and clumsy. That’s me, all the way. And Max, the hero, is my husband Garry. A large man who commands respect just by being who he is. But also, he’s loving and gentle, too. I’ve never had children, so Roxy’s inexperience with kids was a reflection of me, too.

Thanks, Ruth, for this fun interview. For those who enjoy a humorous book, check out Better Than Catnip.

Interview with Sweet Romance Author Traci Hunter Abramson

Originally from Arizona, Traci Hunter Abramson has spent most of her adult life living in Virginia. She is a graduate of Brigham Young University and a former employee of the Central Intelligence Agency. Since leaving the CIA, Traci has written several novels, including the Undercurrents trilogy, Royal Target, Obsession, and the Saint Squad series. When she’s not writing, Traci enjoys spending time with her husband and four children. She also enjoys coaching the local high school swim team.

Hello, Traci! Please tell us about your novel.

Royal Secrets is a fun romantic suspense about a woman struggling to raise her two young sons after losing her husband. When she comes to work for the royal family of Meridia, she forms an unlikely friendship with Prince Stefano. As time passes, and their friendship blossoms into romance, outside forces threaten the royal family and the very fabric of life in this storybook country.

Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

Royal Secrets was a unique project for me because it was written as in response to fan mail. I wrote Royal Target several years ago assuming that it would be a stand alone novel, but shortly after it came out, I started receiving fan mail from readers asking if I was going to write a sequel.

I tried a few times to start a sequel, but other stories kept dominating my thoughts and demanded to get written first. Then, finally, I started writing what was supposed to be a sequel. To my surprise, two secondary characters, Prince Stefano of Meridia and Alora DeSanto, completely hijacked this novel. Although I fought with them for several chapters, I finally gave up and let them find their story.

What kind of research did you have to do for this novel?

Most of my research for this novel occurred by simply pulling Royal Target off of my bookshelf. Both novels occurred primarily in the same locations, so I was able to borrow from some of the research I had previously done on those types of details. As for the intelligence and government side of the story, I was able to rely on my previous background working for the CIA.

That’s amazing. What does your family think about your writing?

Overall, my family has been very supportive and tolerant of my writing. I know it can be difficult at times, especially when I’m in the middle of the project, but usually they’re pretty good about letting me know when my balance needs to shift a bit between my writing time and our family time.

Thanks for the fun interview. I’ve never interviewed a former CIA agent before. Hahaha. Now it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

Between my junior and senior years in high school, I lived in Venezuela as a foreign exchange student. I had always wanted to become more fluent in Spanish and thought this would be a great experience. I lived in Caracas during the time of year when young people were required to register for the draft, and my friends and I were pulled over somewhat frequently. Twice I was caught without my passport. Both times the authorities discussed deporting me…once to Colombia and the other time to Brazil. Apparently my accent was good enough that they thought I was a native speaker even though my vocabulary was lacking. After some heated conversations in which I countered their questions in Spanish with some rather heated English (and after my friend who often held my passport arrived) they decided I wasn’t worth the paperwork and I was allowed to stay.

Wow! That’s scary. It sounds like you have had some interesting experiences. Almost deported in a foreign country, going on dangerous assignments for the CIA, and now you’re an author! You’ve had a very interesting life, Traci!

Interview with Author Charissa Stastny

Charissa Stastny lives in Meridian, Idaho with her husband, four kids, and her super mellow dog named Ginger. She and her family love camping, hiking, and biking. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from BYU, but is currently a proofreader and a grant writer. Eyes of Light is her first published novel. Her second book, Secret Keepers, is due out this fall. 

Hello, Charissa. Please tell us about your novel.

Eyes of Light takes opposites to a whole new level. From Hispanic drug capos to Mormon missionaries in Guatemala, this story shows the spectrum of the human soul. The protagonist, Suvi Goldstein, is smart and resourceful, yet unaware of her true potential. She tries to escape her past, but life’s whirlwinds suck her back into danger and intrigue as she falls for a man with secrets as deadly as her own.

When disaster strikes, she flees to leave her guilt behind, but finds herself in even greater peril. Torn between violent men in one world and a kind, forgiving man in another, Suvi must find her way toward salvation. But will she ever be free of the darkness that binds her? Can she ever forgive herself for what happened...so that she can love again?

This sounds like an interesting Christian fiction. Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

The inspiration for my Suvi character came in the form of a traveling artist that knocked at my door, selling canvases. I let her in, was charmed, and bought one of her paintings—The Street of Roses in Tiberias. Suvi was a captivating, gregarious personality. I couldn’t stop thinking about her, so used her to fuel my story for my creative writing class. Eyes of Light was born.

My little brother was my inspiration for my James character. He served a mission in Guatemala. I used his letters he wrote home to cast Elder Hinton. I tease my brother that James Hinton is him...only cool.

Hahaha. What kind of research did you have to do for this novel?

I used my brother’s mission letters to figure out details about Guatemala. I also did research on the FBI’s site about crime in Guatemala, which I thought my brother might be exaggerating. He wasn’t. Crime is terrible there.

I understand completely. I had to do research for my novel, Mayan Intrigue, since it was set in southern Mexico, and found that crime and artifact theft are running rampant there and in Guatemala. My eyes were really opened. So what does your husband think about your writing?

My husband thinks I don’t do enough zombie scenes for his taste. If I leave my computer for a second, I risk severe story tampering. I’ve come in to find my heroine being eaten by a zombie, or my masculine hunk telling the love of his life that he wants to eat her brains...things like that.

Hahaha. Your husband is so funny. How about your family?

Mostly, my family is supportive...but brutally honest. My daughter laughed hysterically when she read the first draft of Eyes of Light. She highlighted 3 different sections and wrote: “Cheesy! Please Mom, don’t ever publish this. It will embarrass me for you!” My husband also gave me useful advice: “Before you ever publish any of your stories, you might want to do a search for the word zombie.” Their tips saved me.  

That is so hilarious. Now it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

I was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, but am “gambling-challenged.” I haven’t ever pulled a handle of a slot machine, or thrown dice across a craps table, and I can’t shuffle cards to save my life. In college, I shuffled UNO cards by scattering them all over the ground and messing them up, then picking them up again. It drove my roommates crazy.

Hahaha. Now I know the real you! Just your answers alone make me wonder if you’re going to have a sense of humor in your book. Thanks for a wonderful interview.

Interview with Historical Sweet Romance Author

Linda Weaver Clarke has been married for 39 years to George Clarke and has 6 daughters and 5 grandchildren. She travels throughout the United States, teaching a Family Legacy Workshop, encouraging people to write their family history and autobiography. She has gone to 16 states and given over 300 workshops. She is the author of nine novels and two non-fiction e-books: five historical “sweet” romance novels and four mystery/adventure novels.

“These books are enjoyable to read, and although they're wholesome, they're never boring. Linda Weaver Clarke is outstanding at presenting the characters' thoughts, especially when it comes to romance, and she captures the highs and lows of romantic life rather adeptly. The author also pays close attention to historical accuracy, enabling readers to learn about U.S. history in her novels.” –Suko’s Notebook

George Clarke: Every week you interview authors and have book giveaways and I thought it was about time someone interviewed you! You have 5 books in “A Family Saga in Bear Lake Idaho” series. What was the inspiration behind your first sweet romance novel, Melinda and the Wild West - an awarding winning novel?

Linda: Most authors are inspired by an event in their lives or by something they’ve read about in a newspaper. In my case, it was personal. I had a heartrending experience that I never forgot. I was a substitute teacher for an elementary school. I had subbed for this one class before, but this day was different. This day something was definitely wrong and I was not sure what it was. As I moved toward the back of the room, I noticed a desk that was hidden behind a bookshelf. I peered around the corner and saw an eight-year-old girl resting her head against her arms.

I was surprised. Why was this student separated from the rest of the children? Why was she hidden behind this bookshelf… alone? One of the students volunteered, "She has to sit there because she’s a trouble-maker and doesn’t do her schoolwork and fights with the boys at recess."

This eight-year-old girl had been labeled as a troublemaker by her teacher. Hearing this, the students steered away from her, not wanting to be her friend. This label made her feel degraded. She stopped doing schoolwork, refused to be part of the class, and got into a few fights. She seemed angry at the world but after working with her for a while, I soon learned what a sweet and wonderful child she was. She had characteristics that I was impressed with. When she realized that I really cared, she was willing to do her work, just to please me. I’ll never know how this young girl’s life turned out, but in my novel I chose a happily-ever-after ending, just because Melinda cared and made a difference in the girl’s life. Why was this subject important to me? Because something similar happened to my own daughter.

This novel has “sweet” romance and adventure. What kind of adventure? When Melinda takes a job as a schoolteacher in the small town of Paris, Idaho, she comes face-to-face with a notorious bank robber, a vicious grizzly bear, and a terrible blizzard that leaves her clinging to her life. But it’s a rugged rancher who challenges Melinda with the one thing for which she was least prepared—love.

George Clarke: I have read each one of your novels and enjoyed them. Why do you add true family or ancestral experiences to your historical novels?

Linda: I feel that it brings my story to life. An example is my great grandmother, Sarah Robinson. In my 4th book in this series, Sarah's Special Gift, she was my inspiration, so I patterned my character after her. She lost her hearing when she was a baby. Even though she was deaf, she was known as one of the most graceful dancers in town. She was a beautiful woman with black hair and blue eyes. Nothing held her back. She was a spunky woman. One day she had a feeling that an intruder was in her home so she grabbed her broom and searched the house. She found the terrible man under her bed. With all the power and strength she had, she swatted him out of the house and down the street, pummeling him as she went. Since I added so many experiences from her life in my book, I named my character, Sarah, after my great grandmother.

George Clarke: What was the inspiration behind the last four novels in this series?

Linda: Edith and the Mysterious Stranger was inspired by my parents’ courtship. They didn’t meet the traditional way. They met through letters. Their story was so romantic that I patterned this book after their courtship. With mysterious letters, cattle rustlers, a spunky woman, Halloween, and young love, there is always something happening. 

Sarah's Special Gift was inspired because of my great grandmother who was deaf. This story has deep-rooted legends, a few mysterious events, the mystery of the Bear Lake Monster, and a tender love story.

Jenny’s Dream was inspired because of some unpleasant childhood experiences and now Jenny must learn forgiveness before she can choose which dream to follow. Meanwhile, a legendary ten-foot grizzly bear is seen in the area and its boldness has frightened the community.

My inspiration for Elena, Woman of Courage was the “Roaring Twenties.” This was a new decade of independent women, when they raised their hemlines and bobbed their hair. As Elena fights to prove herself as the town’s newest female doctor, the town’s most eligible bachelor finds it a challenge to see if he can win her heart.

George Clarke: I loved each book in this series but my favorite is Elena, Woman of Courage because you put so much humor into it. I hope that many people were able to get to know you better. Remember to pick which book you’re the most interested in, whether you want a book or ebook, along with your email.

Interview with Fantasy Author Janalyn Voigt

Whether Janalyn Voigt’s novels have you flying on a winged horse into a fantasy land, facing down a buffalo stampede in the Wild West, or hunting for treasure on a mysterious island, her writing will transport you into breathtaking creative worlds. Janalyn serves as a literary judge for several national contests and is an active book reviewer.  She is represented by Barbara Scott of Wordserve Literary. Janalyn lives in a quiet corner of the Pacific Northwest, where she discovers worlds of adventure in the great outdoors.

Visit Janalyn's website: http://janalynvoigt.com

“In DawnSinger, Janalyn Voigt has penned a novel full of surprises. With adventure, mystery, and an unlikely romance, this beautiful, epic fantasy will leave you scrambling for the next book in the trilogy.” ~ Jill Williamson

Hello Janalyn! DawnSinger is book one of a fantasy trilogy, “Tales of Faeraven.” Please tell us about your novel.

DawnSinger and the rest of the Tales of Faeraven started as a story I invented for my young daughter to while away the time on a car trip. That story grabbed hold of me and wouldn’t let go, even during the years when I gave up on writing. Finally, out of a kind of self-defense, I decided to write this story that wouldn’t leave me alone, whether or not it ever saw the light of publication. DawnSinger is the first installment in a story that affirms the power of honor, self-sacrifice, and forgiveness to heal a broken nation.

The High Queen is dying... At the royal summons, Shae mounts a wingabeast and soars through the air to the high hold of Faeraven, where all is not as it seems. Visions warn her of danger, and a dark soul touches hers in the night. When she encounters an attractive but disturbing musician, her wayward heart awakens. But then there is Kai, a guardian of Faeraven and of Shae. Secrets bind him to her, and her safety lies at the center of every decision he makes. On a desperate journey fraught with peril and the unknown, they battle warlike garns, waevens, ferocious raptors, and the wraiths of their own regrets. Yet, they must endure the campaign long enough to release the DawnKing—and the salvation he offers—into a divided land. To prevail, each must learn that sometimes victory comes only through surrender.

Where did you get your inspiration for this series?

My father was a half-breed Native American, and when I was small he told me of his encounters with prejudice. The conflict within Tales of Faeraven centers on racial strife between the Elder and the Kindren, the two human races within Elderland. Later in the story, in DawnKing, the third book of the series, a half-cast daughter ascends to the throne of Faeraven and forces the nations to decide between love and hate. The presence of winged horses in all three novels stems from my lifelong love of horses.   

What kind of research did you have to do for this novel?

DawnSinger is based on 13^th-Century Europe. I filled a thick binder with historical notes. One of the hardest things for me to research has been siege warfare. I find it difficult to read about other people’s sufferings, whether they lived a year or a century ago.

I understand what you mean because your heart tends to go out to them, no matter how long ago it was. Okay, it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

I trained for five years in vocal music and performed in musical theater productions and several operas. My aim was to go into opera, but the need to eat intervened. Starving artists are only glamorous in theory. I became an insurance agent, and then an assistant underwriter instead. I’ve given up my dream of an opera career, but music still informs my writing. Many people describe my writing as “lyrical” or “musical.”

Wow! An operatic writer! I bet anything that you make at least one of your characters musically inclined. Ha! Thanks for being a guest on my blog, Janalyn.

Interview with Sweet Romance Author Marie Higgins

Marie Higgins is a multi-published author of romance; from refined bad-boy heroes who makes your heart melt to the feisty heroines who somehow manage to love them regardless of their faults. She’s married with two daughters, has two grandchildren, and she’s lived in Utah all her life. Visit her website/blog to discover more about her – http://mariehiggins84302.blogspot.com.

“More than just a romance...my stories are an adventure!”

Welcome back to my blog, Marie. I love adventurous romances. Please tell us about your new book.

Thanks for having me back, Linda! My book, “The Sweetest Touch” is book #2 in my Regency Romance series – The Brothers of Worthington.  I’ve tried to add a little humor, a little suspense, a little action, and a whole lot of romance in this story, hoping to please all kinds of readers. So far, I’m getting raving reviews!! Here is the blurb:

Louisa wakes from a deep heavy fog, surrounded by strangers and horrified to discover she's been the sole victim of a terrible buggy accident. Worse... she remembers nothing.

Trevor Worthington, Duke of Kenbridge, can’t trust women. Yet after nearly killing the amnesiac Louisa, he has little choice but to open his home to her. His heart softens to the straggly woman in beggar's garb as he strives to help her regain her memory. As proof of Louisa's scars, both physical and those lurking beneath the surface, come to light, Trevor finds himself more and more drawn to the mysterious woman. However he is hesitant to enter another nightmarish entanglement like his first marriage.

Louisa is all too happy to accept employment in the Duke's household though it quickly becomes apparent she doesn't fit in at all! For starters she speaks French and has no skills to speak of. Bits and pieces of conflicting memories flash through her mind, lending more confusion to the puzzle of her life. Fortunately the duke proves ever patient with her myriad of mistakes and Louisa finds herself falling in love with the kind, brooding man. As their budding relationship progresses from improper to scandalous Louisa's memory begins to return. Dare she tell Trevor the horrible truths of her past? That she belongs to an evil man known only as Macgregor.

As the heartbreaking facts of Louisa's past are exposed and decade old questions come to light, will the truth keep these lovers from happiness? Will Trevor be able to give love another chance? Or will Louisa's sweet touch prove yet another forgotten memory...

Wow! I love romances that have a touch of mystery. And this sounds like one I’d enjoy. Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

Well, Linda…to be honest, I like to mix up themes when I write. So this one is a little like The Prince and the Pauper meets Oliver Twist.  lol.  Although this is book #2 in my series, it’s about the oldest brother, Trevor Worthington. I didn’t know what kind of story I’d give him until I was nearly finished with “The Sweetest Kiss” (book #1). So what inspired me to write this story? It was book #1, “The Sweetest Kiss”. 

I love hearing what inspires an author to write a novel. Thanks, Marie. What kind of research did you do for this book?

Oh…I love doing research! I researched the slums of London. I researched pick-pockets and how they lived. And I also looked up how the gaols were operated back in Regency times. There’s a part where my characters go to a circus, and I looked online for that, as well as what particular vehicle my characters would drive in what scene. Fun!!

Do you ever put real experiences in your books?

Not really. I’ve always thought I lead a boring life, so to add a real situation from my life to a story… well, I’d fear it would put readers to sleep. However, I’ve felt sad before. I’ve been in love. I’ve felt fear and helplessness…and of course pure happiness, which are all the emotions I’ve written in this story.

What a perfect answer! Thank you, Marie, for a wonderful interview. I have learned a lot about you and your new book.

Interview with Children’s Author Sherrill S. Cannon

A former teacher, all of Sherrill S. Cannon’s books are in rhyme and all try to teach good manners and consideration for others. In 2011, she won eight National Awards for her books, The Magic Word, Peter and the Whimper-Whineys, and Santa’s Birthday Gift. Her fourth book Gimme-Jimmy, has just been released, with wonderful reviews. She also has written six published and internationally produced plays for elementary school children. A magna cum laude graduate of The American University, she has had a varied career including teacher and coach, newspaper photographer and columnist, Dinner Theatre Manager, and Business Administrator. She and her husband of more than 50 years are now retired, and travel in their RV from coast to coast each year, visiting their children and nine grandchildren... sharing Sherrill’s books along the way!

Welcome back to my blog, Sherrill. Please tell us about your new children’s book, The Magic Word.

The Magic Word is currently ranked #1 in Children’s Popularity on amazon. It has won four awards: a Gold medal Readers Favorite, winner of a Pinnacle Achievement award, second place in the Reader Views Awards, and was a Finalist (third place) in the Global eBook Awards. It is a story about a little girl who needs to learn good manners, so that she will make friends who will want to come to her birthday party. Her mother’s words echo in her ear, “What is the magic word?” and little Elisabeth has to say “Please.” Children seem to love to anticipate the answer!!

Where did you get your inspiration for The Magic Word?

I was inspired to write this book because this has always been a common reply in our family if someone forgets to say “Please.” It also works for “Thank-You”! I wanted to write a rhyming book to help children learn good manners, disguised as a fun story. I received the following lovely comment from a reviewer:

“I have passed the ones you sent me to my 4 year old niece… Her mother has already read her ‘The Magic Word’ and said she was completely delighted. She now sleeps with the book under her pillow. You have a definite 4 year old fan.”

 Please tell us about your newest children’s book.

My just released book, Gimme-Jimmy, is a story about how a bully learns to share. James Alexander’s nickname was Gimme-Jimmy because he was a greedy and selfish bully. Imagine Jimmy’s concern when he discovered that every time he said the word “Gimme,” his hand grew larger. Jimmy was happy to discover that when he was polite and said “Please” and “Thank you,” his hand began to shrink. He started practicing his new “Polite Rule” and found out that it was much more fun to share.

A reviewer wrote: “Gimme-Jimmy is a delightful children’s book. This is a great story to teach young children good manners, specifically not to be selfish.” Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

In this case, the title came before the book! When my son was in the “it’s mine” and “gimme” stage, he had a little friend whose name was Jimmy who always said, “Gimme”– so we got in the habit of saying, “Don’t be a Gimme-Jimmy!”

I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. Do you ever put real experiences in your books?

Probably all my books are somewhat based on real life situations. Having been a teacher, as well as a mother of four and grandmother of nine, I have had multiple opportunities to help me determine that good manners need to be taught to small children, preferably by example, as early as possible. Learning consideration for others, to “think more of others and less about you,” helps not only with a child’s popularity; but becoming a good citizen is the best way to practice the “Golden Rule”. Reading books with your children is a great way to help them learn.

Thank you, Linda, for allowing me to reach more readers who will share my books with children. It’s all about the children… My website, where I also have a blog, is www.sherrillcannon.com. My SBPRA Link – Press Reviews for all four books: http://sbpra.com/sherrillscannon/

Thank you, Sherrill, for this wonderful interview. I know my readers have learned more about you and your books.