The New Book Review

Friday, December 11, 2015

Interview: Award-Winning Journalist Covers Fiction, Too!

Hi! I am Carolyn Howard Johnson, your trusty New Book Review blogger and author of the multi award-winning HowTo Do It Frugally Series of books for writers. This blog has heretofore been exclusive for reviews but I thought I’d do a special series of interviews after I chatted with Jeanie Loiacono, President of Loiacono Literary Agency – Where ‘can’t’ is not in our vocabulary! I thought sharing the interviews would help the many subscribers and visitors to this New Book Review blog, including authors, reviewers, and, of course, readers who just might find a new favorite author among the featured books and authors.

So, today welcome Ginny Fite.

Ginny Fite is an award-winning journalist who has covered crime, politics, government, healthcare, art and all things human. She has been a spokesperson for a governor, member of Congress, a few colleges and universities, and a robotics R&D company. She has degrees from Rutgers University and Johns Hopkins University and studied at the School for Women Healers and the Maryland Poetry Therapy Institute. She is the author of I Should Be Dead by Now, a collection of humorous lamentations about aging, three books of poetry: The Last Thousand Years, The Pearl Fisher, Throwing Caution; and a short story collection, What Goes Around. Cromwell’s Folly is her first novel. Its sequel, No Good Deed Left Undone is due for release in 2016 She resides in Harpers Ferry, WV.

What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? Fiction/murder mysteries
What made you want to be a writer? I like to read.
Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? Alexander Dumas and Jane Austen as a teenager; right now Anthony Doerr’s All the Light We Cannot See. Each writer teaches me something new about how to tell a story.
What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why? I'm a hybrid seat-of-the-pants planner. I begin where the story tells me to, typing as fast as I can to keep up, and when the plot gets complicated, I start making a timeline that spans the entire framework of the novel. The timeline isn't a cage. The story can escape from it at any time, but it does help me to see where I'm going.
Do you write every day? How much? How long? I write every day, including weekends; in the morning for as long as it's productive, so sometimes for four hours, sometimes longer. I don't count words or pages.
Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why? Reading is critical to good writing. The more you read, the more you discover about your craft. But it's also simply pleasurable. Good brain food.
What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Read everything. Write down lines when they come. A good line can zoom by like a ping pong ball in a vacuum. Don't be in a hurry; writing is a long process and it's okay if your first draft is a mess. Get in a writers group that meets weekly and let other writers hold you accountable.
Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? I'm still praying for a book maven to promote my novel so I can reach that all-critical tipping point!
Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? Sometimes conferences are beneficial, depending on who is speaking. I recently went to the F. Scott Fitzgerald Writers Conference in October and was inspired by the presenters; two of whom were Pulitzer Prize winners.
Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? My novel, Cromwell's Folly, is on Amazon, B&N, and wherever books are sold. In my local indie book store, Four Seasons Books in Shepherdstown, it is one of the store's "best sellers" and shares a shelf with The Martian and All the Light We Cannot See, to my knee-buckling astonishment. My next signing event is on Dec. 12th at the Christmas Market in Charles Town, WV from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.ginnyfite.com Fite Events Facebook Different Strokes for Different Folks Blog Talk Radio Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Jeanie Loiacono http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/ginny-fite/

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENT

Jeanie Loiacono, President, Loiacono Literary Agency

A facilitator of dreams, Jeanie Loiacono represents over eighty authors. Her forte is mystery, romance, thrillers, historical/military/southern fiction, and all quality fiction/nonfiction. Her passion is to see her authors succeed.

“There is nothing more rewarding than to hold one of my author’s books and know I helped bring it to fruition. I am so blessed and privileged to be able to work with some of the most talented writers in the world.” Jeanie.L@llallc.net www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Interview: Vet Pens Historical Fiction

So, today welcome Thomas E. Simmons.

Simmons grew up in Gulfport, Mississippi, attended Marion Military Institute, the U. S. Naval Academy, the University of Southern Mississippi and the University of Alabama. Tom was once the commercial captain of a seventy foot sailing vessel, has been a pilot since the age of sixteen, (3000 plus hours in the air), has flown professionally and participated in air shows flying aerobatics in open-cockpit bi-planes. In the late 1950s he served as an artillery officer in Korea. He is the author of three nonfictions: The Man Called Brown Condor (Skyhorse, 2013), Forgotten Heroes of World War II: Personal Accounts of Ordinary Soldiers Land, Sea and Air (Taylor Trade, 2014), Escape from Archangel (University of Mississippi Press); and two historical fictions: By Accident of Birth (TouchPoint Press, 2015) and The Last Quinn Standing (TouchPoint Press, 2016). He has also written numerous magazine articles, an example of which, “Growing Up With Mr. Faulkner,” was published in The Oxford American, a literary magazine founded by John Grisham.

What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? Both historical fiction and nonfiction.
What made you want to be a writer? My love of books, and the fact, as with most writers, I write because I am driven to.
Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? Too many to list.
What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Linearly. Why? It is the way my brain works. Nonfiction should flow as the history of your subject to make it easier for the reader to follow and understand. I write fiction linearly for it wouldn’t be fun if I knew how my story will end. I want it to be as big a surprise to me as for the reader.
Do you write every day? How much? How long? When working on a project I write a little almost daily. If my muse is flowing, I may write late into the night when all is quiet and there are no interruptions.
Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Absolutely. Why? It presents a study of sentence structure, new ways of looking at specific words, different story or fact presentation, implants the desire to do better; all, of course, if you read quality work.
What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Perseverance, dedication, courage, research, research, research until you know your subject, character, setting, facts…never get caught stating facts or details that are wrong; revise, revise, revise; develop a thick hide to handle criticism, rejection slips, and disappointment, and work hard to get an agent (mine is Loiacono Literary Agency, Jeanie Loiacono www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com ) in the field of which you are writing. If you can’t get an agent, rework the piece and try again. Remember, John Gresham (with his book The Firm ) was turned down by some thirty-nine or more agents.
Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? Work with your publisher, work with independent book stores in your area, use any contacts you have with radio stations, TV stations, newspapers in your local/regional area, volunteer to make talks and book signings, use social media. Friends will spread the word, and last but not least, read Carolyn Howard Johnson’s book The Frugal Book Promoter.
Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? Yes, they are beneficial. Only been to one and that is where I met my agent. There is much you can learn at conferences about writing, publishing, and marketing.

Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? You can find me at my web site www.thomasesimmons.net; at my E-mail tesim@bellsouth.net. I have a new novel, By Accident of Birth, which has just been released, with launch at Barnes and Nobel 15246 Crossroads Parkway, Gulfport, MS 39503, and a second printing of The Man Called Brown Condor (which won the Gold Medal for Biography from the Military Writers Society of America) this time in soft cover due out in January 2016; its launch at Barnes and Nobel 15246 Crossroads Parkway, Gulfport, MS 39503.

Three books of mine are currently in print and can be obtained at any book store, Barnes and Nobel, Amazon, Kindle, and one as an audio book. Nonfiction: Escape from Archangel; Forgotten Heroes of World War II: Personal Accounts of Ordinary Soldiers Land, Sea and Air and The Man Called Brown Condor, hard cover and soon in soft cover. Fiction: By Accident of Birth just released. www.thomasesimmons.net Amazon Author Central

Facebook LinkedIn Tom Simmons interview about the Lighthouse

Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Jeanie Loiacono http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/thomas-e-simmons

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENT

Jeanie Loiacono, President, Loiacono Literary Agency

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Reviewer Loves Hot Paranormal Romance

Title: Fashionably Dead
Series: Hot Damned Series, Book 1

Author: Robyn Peterman

Website: http://www.robynpeterman.com

Genre: Literature & Fiction, Romance, Paranormal, Demons & Devils, Humor & Satire, General Humor

ISBN #: B00EYMXM2I

Reviewer's Rating: 5 star

Where people can purchase the book: http://www.amazon.com/Robyn-Peterman/e/B00A7D7DPA/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1448994614&sr=1-2-ent

Reviewed by Tracey Quintin originally for Goodreads

ONLY Robyn Peterman could pull off writing a romantically fun suspense-fully witty book such as Fashionably Dead where you find you can't put the book down!

You are brought into a magical world where vampires, faeries, angels and demons exist and YOU find yourself wanting to be part of a super cool dominion. Heck who wouldn't want a HOT HOT HOT looking Prince Vamp in their life who runs this dominion, where you are gorgeous and wear Prada! How can that be? Because Robyn is able to make it believable in her way of words that draw you in!

Robyn provides you with some zany and whacky zingers that crack you up, plus words I've never heard before AND IT WORKS! She's outrageously witty and brilliant in being able to write a book you think is going to be off the wall but makes you fall in love and wanting more, you don't want the book to end!!!

I SO want to be in the main character, Astrid's place to experience ALL the things she not only endures but to be with the other vamps, demons, faeries and angels! WOW!!

Yet another brilliant book Robyn! Bring it on girl because I want to read more!!!

I should mention that this book is for adults and contains sex, violence, and profane language. I don't mind reading books with this content as long as it fits the story. In this book it absolutely fits.

Very highly recommend this book. It's a must read!!! BRAVO Robyn!

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Robyn Peterman connections:

Website: http://www.robynpeterman.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Robyn-Peterman-418985661472374/?fref=ts&ref=br_tf

Twitter: https://twitter.com/robynpeterman

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6545317.Robyn_Peterman?from_search=true&search_version=service

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Robyn-Peterman/e/B00A7D7DPA/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1448994614&sr=1-2-ent

ABOUT THE REVIEWER

Tracey Quintin connections:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LOVEBOOKSWITHROMANCE/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ReadingIsOurPas

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/19886187-tracey-quintin

Monday, December 7, 2015

"Peachy" Review of All Three Paranormal Books in Series

Title: Followers of Torments series

Author: K. Caffee

Genre: Paranormal Fantasy

Wordpress Blog Peachy's Insights on Nov. 13, 2015

link: http://wp.me/p6kbvq-81

Reviewed by Grandma Peachy (Lavern Winters) originally for Peachy's Insights blog

Recently I read K. Caffee's books in her Followers of Torments series. This series is an excellent read especially if you like an unusual paranormal fantasy. The story is in a setting reminiscent of gladiators in a Roman Arena. There are some typical paranormal characters, vampires, werewolves and other fae in the series. There are others that aren't typical such as the spider goddess worshiped by most of the realms. I really enjoyed the series and look forward to reading more of Nameless' story. Following are my reviews of each of the three books published so far.

Out of the Darkness: Followers of Torments Book #1

I found the first part unbelievable because it seems impossible that any person could survive an infancy of isolation. However, once I got past that part of the book the story became much more believable and interesting. A fantasy story in which the main character is born a slave and raised to fight in the arena in gladiator fashion. There are paranormal overtones though the training and advancement within the arena have the primary role in this first book of the series. I found the development of the fighter and his training to be believable and the paranormal aspects unique. The plot had a little slower start than I like but as it progresses the action picked up and the story became a satisfying read. Her character development of the unnamed fighter was very well done. After surviving an unbelievable infancy the steps taken in isolation then limited contact to train the child first for survival then obedience were quite realistic. The training he receives gives the fighter no concept of anything but slavery which created a gladiator with determination to survive, obey and serve only his master. The author did an excellent job engaging me in the personal experiences of the main character. The ingrained lessons learned as a slave and fighter gave me an empathy for his emotions and attitudes as he fought his way to the top and his freedom. If you like a gladiator style paranormal fantasy story, then this book is well worth reading. I rate it 4 stars only because the beginning was unbelievable and the plot started slower than I like.

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Remember the Shadows: Followers of Torments Book#2

I am quite enthralled by Nameless, the main character in this series. After reading Out of the Darkness, the first of the series, I was anxious the learn how he learns to cope with his new life after gaining his freedom. The author has done a superb job of detailing how a character who had only ever known slavery adjusts to freedom with no real instruction on what is expected. Nameless is smart and learns quickly, though the ingrained habits of slavery are difficult to overcome. He comes to hate the culture that shaped him and begins to wage a war against what he believes is wrong with the society. I feel his frustrations, his anger, his amusement, and confusion as he treads through a new life of freedom. Ms. Caffee created an excellent plot and cast of characters that is well worth the read if you enjoy a Romanesque gladiator theme in a unique paranormal fantasy. Five stars for such an enjoyable story with wonderful character development and plot line.

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Into the Sunlits: Followers of Torments Book#3

Into the Sunlits continues this paranormal fantasy in a setting of Roman style gladiator slavery. In this book Nameless seeks to increase his stable of Silks (slaves) to train for arena fighting. The author has done an excellent job of advancing the plot and continuing to develop the main characters after entering a new realm. The social mores and cultural experiences as well as environment in the Sunlits are beyond Nameless' experiences. He finds slavers are not as welcome and capturing rather purchasing is the most abhorrent. The open sunlight in this realm proves to be an obstacle to success as he attempts to increase the size of his stable. His trainer cannot tolerate the sunshine and he himself has a difficult time functioning in the open daylight as well. As each of the characters are developed further we learn more about their backgrounds, particularly Nameless whose parentage has not previously been known. The dilemmas faced and the action are captivating and exciting. The story moves along at a good pace adding new supporting characters. This is definitely not a stand alone book; it is a continuation of the first two novels and the ultimate conclusion is not reached. The book leaves us with a cliff hanger. Personally, I don't mind cliff hangers in epic series and I would say this is epic. I love the characters and the plot leads down some unexpected trails. There are some moral and political issues addressed as part of the story. I am looking forward to the next part of the story that I understand will be out later in 2015. I give this one 5 stars.

LINKS

Author web page: https://pukahworks.wordpress.com/

Purchasing on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/K.-Caffee/e/B00TMQEJPU/

http://www.amazon.com/Out-Darkness-Followers-Torments-Book-ebook/dp/B00NSAP7VG/

http://www.amazon.com/Remember-Shadows-Followers-Torments-Book-ebook/dp/B00RUT70IE/

http://www.amazon.com/Into-Sunlits-Followers-Torments-Book-ebook/dp/B014MV25TQ/

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Sunday, December 6, 2015

A Not-Erotic-But-A-Little-Sexier Book by Marie Astor

Title: Thirsty for Payback

(Sinful Business Book 1)

Author: Marie Astor

Website: http://www.marieastor.com

Genre: Romance, Contemporary

ISBN-10: 1507893876

ISBN-13: 978-1507893876

Reviewer's Rating: 5 star

Where people can purchase the book: http://www.amazon.com/Marie-Astor/e/B004EBDX9Q/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1448387829&sr=1-2-ent

Reviewed by Tracey Quintin originally for Goodreads

What an AWESOME new series by Marie Astor! Absolutely LOVED IT and highly recommend!!!

This was a page turner for sure. As you read along you'll see the main character Ally as she experiences quite a range of emotions: joy, insecurity, sadness, pain, loss, intrigue, growth, love and revenge. There were some parts that I laughed out loud. You also realize not only that money doesn't give you everything in life but can also be taken away in an instant.

All of the characters in this book are well developed. I truly enjoyed Ally's character the most. Of course, I loved others as well but also disliked some because of their actions. (I don't want to give away any of the storyline).

This is really an amazing new series by Marie Astor and brings the hotness level up a notch from the other books of Marie's that I have read! Not erotic just more sexier than prior books - which to me was perfect.

I think you're going to love it as much as I did!! I'm SO looking forward to the next book in this series. Love Marie Astor!

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Marie Astor connections:

Website: http://www.marieastor.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marieastorcollection/?fref=ts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/marieastor

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4665230.Marie_Astor?from_search=true&search_version=service

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Marie-Astor/e/B004EBDX9Q/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1448387829&sr=1-2-ent

ABOUT THE REVIEWER

Tracey Quintin connections:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LOVEBOOKSWITHROMANCE/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ReadingIsOurPas

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/19886187-tracey-quintin

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Literary Agent Interviews Horror Writer

So, today welcome Michael Infinito.

Michael Infinito has been hailed as the next Stephen King.

A novelist and short story writer, he grew up in New Jersey but now resides under the clear blue skies of eastern North Carolina. With a life-long passion for literary arts, his goal has always been to create compelling stories that people won’t want to put down. He has written several novels: 12:19 (MuseItUp Publishing) The Death Site, The Hanging Tree, XXXtreme Discretion and The Colby Ghost (Black Opal Books) with more to come.

1. What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? Fiction. I write some horror like 12:19; thrillers like A Wish To Die For and XXXtreme Discretion, A soon-to-be-released historical ghost story of sorts called The Hanging Tree, and a paranormal love story named The Colby Ghost. I write what I'm feeling at the time, so I might drift from a set genre at times. I even wrote a young adult Halloween story, The Secrets of Hallow.

2. What made you want to be a writer? I've always enjoyed telling stories, even when I was a kid. I was never much good with a typewriter, but computers made it easier for me to get my thoughts out.

3. Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? Probably Poe. I follow books that catch my attention more than specific authors.

4. What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why? I'm fairly linear. I outline loosely on occasion, but for the most part I keep the story in my head. I usually have the ending mapped out before I start the story.

5. Do you write every day? How much? How long? Depends on my day job. My first novel was written during lunches on the back of construction plans. I fit writing in as best I can.

6. Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why? Not at all. I haven't read someone else's work in over two years. If you have your own style, and your own ideas, why would you need inspiration from a fellow author? Just my opinion.

7. What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Just write because you like it. Don't view it as a job opportunity. I'd write even if I never made a dime.

8. Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? I need someone to share them with me. lol I don't feel that self-promotion is my strong point.

9. Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? Haven't been to one, but I'd love to go. I will get to one soon. I believe showing up anywhere would be beneficial. When people can put a face to a name it really helps.

10. Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? Online at major retailers. I do not have any events lined up as of now. www.michaelinfinito.com www.wizardofotin.blogspot.com Facebook Twitter

Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Jeanie Loiacono http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/michael-infinito/

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENTS

Melissa.C@llallc.net http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/drake-vaughn/ Agent, Marketing and Publicity – Melissa Carrigee

Facebook Melissa Carrigee Covers Melissa Carrigee Book Trailers

Carrigee Graphic Art Contract Template

Reading and writing is a way of life for Melissa Carrigee. As a literary agent and award winning graphic artist, she combines her two passions of business and writing. She has published works in newspapers and magazines as well as a published novel. Featured Columnist for The Family Forum, Parents and Kids Magazine – Mississippi Gulf Coast.

I want a horror book to read all night long while I check behind the doors for the boogey man. I’m looking for a thriller that keeps me reading and guessing (and just when I think I’ve figured it out, I’m wrong). I’m looking for children’s books that engage the parent and the child. I’m looking for young adult novels – but NOT Twilight and not wizards. That’s been done. I’m looking for any story with a great plot. Something I can sit and read in a few days with characters that make me think about them long after I’ve finished the book.

Genres: horror, science fiction, historical fiction, commercial fiction, mysteries, thrillers, dramas, historical romance, children’s (picture and mid-grade)—any book that has a great story with unforgettable characters.

Jeanie Loiacono, President, Loiacono Literary Agency - A facilitator of dreams, Jeanie Loiacono represents over eighty authors. Her forte is mystery, romance, thrillers, historical/military/southern fiction, and all quality fiction/nonfiction. Her passion is to see her authors succeed.

“There is nothing more rewarding than to hold one of my author’s books and know I helped bring it to fruition. I am so blessed and privileged to be able to work with some of the most talented writers in the world.” Jeanie.L@llallc.net www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE MORE INTERVIEWS--TO FIND GREAT READING OR TO NETWORK WITH AUTHORS--PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG. YOU ARE A WELCOME ADDITION TO THIS FAMILY WHO LOVES BOOKS! YOU'LL FIND A WINDOW TO DO THIS AT THE TOP OF THIS BLOG PAGE.

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Friday, December 4, 2015

Welcome to the FIRST of a New Series of Author Interviews!

So, today welcome Drake Vaughn.

Drake Vaughn

Drake Vaughn’s “crinkled fiction” is a blend of horror, dark fantasy, and speculative fiction with a heavy psychological bent. His tales appear deceptively simple, but transform into a wild spree of suspense, madness, and trauma. He lives in Santa Monica, California with his wife and a black cat named Shadow (who he is certain has come back from the dead on a number of occasions). His first novel was The Zombie Generation.

When the Devil Climbs

Amazon

When the Devil Climbs Book Trailer

After a decade lost to addiction and criminality, Russ Grote is given the opportunity by his jilted ex-wife to reconnect with his son. On the day before he is scheduled to leave for this reunion, he and his coworkers become trapped up on a billboard after a horde of pigs infected with a mysterious virus attack them. At first, missing his bus appears to be Russ’ major problem, but as the hours whittle away and no rescue arrives, a far worse fate may be in store. Matters only become more complicated when the people who eventually come to save them have other, far more nefarious plans, in store.

1. What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? Horror, and all the creepy dark stuff.

2. What made you want to be a writer? Every writer starts as a passionate reader. I wanted to tell my own stories in my own way and share in the same way other authors shared with me.

3. Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? Stephen King. I fell in love with his stuff as a kid, and still have yet to outgrow it.

4. What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why? I outline and plan a lot. I typically begin with a nugget of a story and then concentrate on fleshing out the characters. When it comes to writing, I tend to drift from my outline, but as long as the characters remain true, I can put them into any scenario and it will work out. Sometimes the best plan is to write myself into an inescapable corner, then keep pushing. Looking back at my outlines, it’s crazy how the final story is so different, but the characters and their growth typically remain consistent.

5. Do you write every day? How much? How long? I view writing in the same way as exercise. Consistency is key, but so is changing up the routine. In the same way that doing the same exercise over and over leads to injury, I get uncreative the more compulsive I get while working on something. I’ve found the best ideas have come when I’m least expecting them, when my mind is wandering. The key is to be always ready, whenever that spark ignites, along with pushing through when there isn’t one.

6. Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why? Outside of having a way to transcribe your words, reading is the only important thing for a writer. I can’t imagine anyone who doesn’t read wanting to be a writer.

7. What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Keep practicing. It’s a slow process, but the more one writes, the easier it becomes. The only way to become better is to practice, practice, practice.

8. Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? The best marketing is to have more books. Similar to most, when I discover a new author, all I want to do is read everything they’ve ever written. I binge read authors, so if all they have is one book, I read it and am done with them. A bigger catalogue is far better than any advertising.

9. Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? My favorite is the World Horror Convention, but that’s focused on my particular genre. The attendees are the best part, since it’s a gathering of like-minded people who share a passion for the genre. Any tips I’ve learned are far less than the connections to these authors who share a passion for writing.

10. Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? The best place to reach me is on social media or my website: drakevaughn.com www.twitter.com/drakevaughn Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Melissa Carrigee Melissa.C@llallc.net http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/drake-vaughn/