The New Book Review

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Sunday, December 6, 2015

Literary Agent Interviews Horror Writer

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 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.

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Simon Barrett Reviews Chip Wagar's Historical Novel

Title: An American in Vienna

Author: Chip Wagar

Genre: Historical Fiction

Website: www.anamericaninvienna.com

ISBN: 978-1-4502-6766-3

Publisher: iUniverse, January 26, 2011

Reviewed by Simon Barrett for Blogger News Networt: Book Review

Fiction is a hard taskmaster. The author must weave the fiction elements into the harsh reality of the facts. When done well (a rare occurrence) you have a book where fact and fiction blend so well that the reader does not know where one ends, and the other begins.

These are lofty goals. But there is one even higher. Weave fact and fiction together and create a work that not only entertains but also teaches. I found that in Chip Wagar and his debut novel An American In Vienna.

The First World War or Great War has been written about many times. Authors have labored long and hard on books about the battlefront, the inhumane conditions, the horrible torture that those brave men faced. Few authors though dare to tread in the ‘back story’. How did a gun shot start a conflict that consumed the Western World for four years?

Chip Wagar has taken a very unique approach. Through the eyes of a vacationing young American visiting Vienna we are exposed to how this war escalated and forever changed the world map.

Andy Bishop has just graduated from Notre Dame with a degree in journalism. His plan is to join his father in the family business, a newspaper in Columbus, Ohio. However before he ’settles down’, he wants to explore Europe, most particularly Austria, which seems to be where the family roots are. And when an invitation is extended to visit these relatives Andy sets sail for the adventure of his lifetime.

Andy Bishop quickly discovers that his Viennese cousins are not regular middle class merchants and bankers, but rather members of Austrian aristocracy with close toes to the Kaiser himself.

The brutal slaying of the Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie sets the wheels in motion for world war one. This information is hardly new, and almost any High Schooler will recite this fact. But what is far less well understood is why this senseless murder was so pivotal in shaping the events of the ensuing months.

1914 might in retrospect seem a poor choice of date to visit Europe, but minor skirmishes between countries had been going on for hundreds of years!

Chip Wagar is to be congratulated, he has taken a very complex political history subject and presented it in a fashion that any reader will enjoy.

Using the character Andy Bishop as the storytelling conduit is a master stroke, it is sheer brilliance. Andy being an American is at best naive as to the the politics in Austria, and in the rest of Europe

Through Andy Bishop we meet Johann and Maria. Johann is the the young and debonair aide-de-camp to Franz Ferdinand, and Maria his aristocratic, but very forward thinking fiance. It could be argued that what results is a love triangle, but it is very far from the standard one. I prefer the term Dynamic over Love Triangle. There is a unique dynamic between these three people.

An American In Vienna is a very unique book. There are three ways to approach Historical Fiction, live the life vicariously through other books, and increasingly resources found on the Internet. The second approach is write about an area that you spent at least a little time in, this allows you the luxury of being able to describe the location with a sense of ‘being there’.

The third approach is the rarest and always most effective, total immersion.

An American In Vienna is clearly written using ‘total immersion’. The dead giveaways are found in the very opening pages. It is the minutiae of everyday life that is mentioned. ‘Hoch’ German is not so much a dialect of speech as it is a lifestyle.

I talked to Chip Wagar a little about An American In Vienna, my guess about ‘immersion’ was correct, Chip spent a considerable amount of time in Vienna as a student.

An American In Vienna is well worth the price of admission, it is a book that has wide and diverse appeal. You can read it as a great adventure novel, or you can read it as a very interesting discussion of the causes and in someways effects of World War One viewed from the Austrian perspective.

A saying popped into my mind when I put this book down, ‘there are three views about any situation, there is mine, there is yours, and there is the truth which lays somewhere in between’. I am a fan of history, but as George Orwell alludes to in 1984, the history books are written by the victors.

You can get your copy of this very thought provoking book by using the Amazon link above. This is a book destined for great things.

----- 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. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Interview: Women's Fiction Writer Skartsiaris Shares Secrets

So, today welcome Jeanne Skartsiaris.

When not writing Jeanne Skartsiaris also works as a Sonographer. Prior to that she was a medical/legal photographer for a plaintiff’s law firm. She attended creative writing courses at Southern Methodist University and is a member of Romance Writers of America’s local chapter, Dallas Area Romance Authors. Also the author of Surviving Life and Snow Globe. She lives in Dallas, Texas.

What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? Young adult and women's fiction
What made you want to be a writer? To quell the voices in my head.
Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? There are so many! Jodi Picoult, Pat Conroy, David Sedaris.
What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why? I let the characters move the story forward. I'd like to do more outlining, but the characters usually do whatever they want no matter how hard I try to control them.
Do you write every day? How much? How long? No. I work full time. My weekends are my busy writing time. Although if inspired, usually while driving or walking, I'll jot down ideas.
Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why? YES! Writing is a craft and it opens the reader to another world or life. If you're a storyteller then you enjoy stories. End of story. J
What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Write. Read. Learn the art of slashing, not horror but editing. A writer opens their soul a little when creating a character and it's hard to take criticism and rejection. You need a tough hide. Never give up.
Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? As I'm still not on a bestseller list, no. I'm trying to learn better marketing skills.
Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? Yes. The resources a writer can get from a conference can be invaluable. I've been to book signings where I've not sold anything, but I've made important connections. I'm also a member of Romance Writers of America and have learned much from authors there.
Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? My YA books are available on Amazon and in a local specialty bookstore in Dallas. I've just gotten them into a Dallas library—Surviving Life and Snow Globe. I'm hoping my women's fiction novel, Dance Like You Mean It, is acquired 2016. www.jeanneskartsiaris.com http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/jeanne-skartsiaris/

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENTS

Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Melissa Carrigee 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

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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 18, 2015

Interview: Author of Please Say Kaddish for Me

So, today welcome Rochelle Wisoff-Fields.

“Startlingly new! Wonderfully different!” boasted the advertisements for the 1953 Chevrolet sedan. Much to the chagrin of her brother Jeff, Rochelle made her entrance into the world the same year her parents purchased their first car. Growing up in Kansas City, she doesn’t remember wanting to be anything other than an artist. Her mother would bemoan the fact with, “Thanks to Rochelle, I can’t find a clean sheet of paper in this house.”

Early on, Rochelle’s love of the arts extended to writing. At age nine she had a poem entitled “The Girl with the Dolls” printed in a magazine. While excited to see her name in black and white, she wasn’t thrilled with the way her grandmother, a widely published poet in New York, saw fit to edit it.

Rochelle’s short story “Savant” has been published in Voices, Vol. III. Another short story, “The Swimming Lesson”, is included in Echoes of the Ozarks, Vol. VI and a third, “Reap the Whirlwind” in Voices, Volume IV. Two of these stories are included in her own short story collection with original artwork This, That and Sometimes the Other; all published by High Hill Press. Her novel, Please Say Kaddish For Me (Argus Publishing) is available now; the sequel, From Silt and Ashes, will be out before Christmas. She is working on the third in the series, As One Must, One Can. We are also compiling a coffee table book of her art from all the books, A Stone for the Journey.

Q. What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction?

A. Historical Fiction.

Q. What made you want to be a writer?

A. Of all the crazy things, it started with fan fiction. As a M*A*S*H fan, I found a site where others had written their own episodes of the show. I had been doing this in my head for years with M*A*S*H and other favorite shows. When I wrote a couple of my own short stories, I discovered I could tell a story with a beginning, middle and end. It also sparked my passion for research to make my stories historically accurate.

Q. Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most?

A. Geraldine Brooks. In my eyes, she’s the undisputed champion for Historical Fiction. Her knowledge and research shine through; her characters live, breathe and walk off the page.

Q. What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why?

A. In the book I’m currently working on, As One Must One Can, I have written an outline, although I didn’t for the two previous books in the trilogy, Please Say Kaddish for Me and From Silt and Ashes. I suppose you could call my “Family Tree Maker” program an outline. At my husband’s suggestion I’ve used the program to keep my characters straight. So far this has worked very well for me. For the most part, writing by scene seems to work best for me. I see them as movies in my head and then work to articulate them in print.

Q. Do you write every day? How much? How long?

A. Yes. Three to four hours is a conservative estimate. Probably 1,000 words.

Q. Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why?

A. Yes. Reading is one of the best ways to learn what works and what doesn’t.

Q. What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors?

A. Be willing to murder your darlings if they don’t pulse a story forward. The reader will never miss them.

Q. Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share?

A. I’m in the learning stages myself.

Q. Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent?

A. Yes, they are the best way to meet editors and agents and to network with other authors. Ozarks Writers League (OWL) holds conferences four times a year.

Q. Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event?

A. Nothing scheduled right now, but my books are available on Amazon and B&N. The sequel to Please Say Kaddish For Me, From Silt and Ashes, will be out any day now. I am working on the third in the series, As One Must, One Can. We are also compiling a coffee table book of her art from all the books, A Stone for the Journey. Rochelle’s Art Rochelle Wisoff-Fields Art and Blogs Facebook Author Page Facebook Friday’s Fictioneers Rochelle’s website Twitter

Kent Bonham and Rochelle Wisoff-Fields as Archie and Edith Bunker @ OWL

Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Jeanie Loiacono http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/rochelle-wisoff-fields/

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.

Thursday, January 7, 2016

Interview: Daniel Lorti Borrows from Background in Arms for Historical Fiction

So, today welcome Daniel Lorti.

A writer of factual fiction, Daniel Lorti has written several works, The Avignon Legacy is his second novel. He is currently working on his third, a romantic thriller.

Lorti has a B.S.E. (summa cum laude) and an M.S.E from Arizona State University. An aerospace engineer with a military sensors, weapons, and intelligence background, he was Chief Radar Engineer for the Northrop Grumman Corporation for many years. In 1995, he was appointed to President Clinton’s twenty-member conference committee for Trade and Investment in Northern Ireland. As an international arms broker he conducted business in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. In 2003, he and his partners sold a highly classified aerospace company to Northrop Grumman. He currently resides in Southern California.

What is your genre? My novel, The Avignon Legacy is a historical fiction.
What made you want to be a writer? I started by writing two movie scripts, after seeing a particularly terrible movie (can’t remember the title). While attending Screenwriter’s Conference and National Film Institute offerings in Los Angeles, I learned producers generally rely on their own screenwriters. I decided to write a novel, hoping to enter the back door that way.
Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? I enjoy action-adventure fiction. I pay special attention to the author’s style. I’ve feasted on Lee Child, Clive Cussler, Tom Clancy, John Sandford, Stuart Woods, Robert B. Parker, Dan Brown and Daniel Silva, to name a few.
What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly, By scene? Why? It’s probably a mixture of John Sandford and Robert B. Parker. I do outline and also rely on a characters list and chapter, section and subsection summaries, as I go along. My outlines are linear, mostly chronological which includes scenes and notes. I found them very helpful with multi-plots, and their integration in the body of the novel is simplified.
Do you write every day? How much? How long? I do try to write every day. The time varies, but no more than three hours at a sitting.
Do you think reading is important to writing for an author? Why? Reading is important to me for several reasons: first, it puts me in a mood; second, I get ideas or identify a variance, which would work in my writing; and third, it adds to my written vocabulary.
What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Don’t get discouraged and start small. Experiment. Try writing a short synopsis of your concept and then view it from the standpoint of the oft-cited three acts. I started with movie scripts, wrote three novels, penned a two-man play, and even entered a national poetry contest with an original twenty-one-line poem.
Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? I wish. Thank goodness for my agent who sends a steady flow of material on the subject to me. As soon as my book is distributed, I’ll hit the dusty trail.
Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? Conferences and classes are useful when you’re starting out. Find out what the others learned and see if it strikes a chord. After I had written my first novel, I found a terrific novel consultant who critiqued it thoroughly. I grew a thick skin. However, there are excellent publications, Writer’s Digest for one.
Where can we find you, your books, and when is your next event? I reside in Newport Beach, California, working on my fourth novel. I have a great and I’m looking forward to all promotional events. I do have a web site, www.danielclorti.com . Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Jeanie Loiacono http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/daniel-c-lorti/

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENT

Jeanie Loiacono, President, Loiacono Literary Agency

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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.

Monday, January 18, 2016

Horror Writer Admits She Likes Her "Inner Demons" to Squeal with Delight

So, today welcome Rebecca Besser.

Rebecca Besser resides in Ohio with her wonderful husband and amazing son. They’ve come to accept her quirks as normal while she writes anything and everything that makes her inner demons squeal with delight. She’s best known for her work in adult horror, but has published fiction, nonfiction, and poetry for a variety of age groups and genres. She’s entirely too cute to be scary in person, so she turns to the page to instill fear into the hearts of the masses. She is

What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? Horror, mostly. I have written for a variety of genres and age groups. Mostly fiction, although I do write nonfiction from time to time.
What made you want to be a writer? I’ve always had a natural way with words and an overactive imagination. Writing was always a good fit for me!
Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? Wow! That’s a hard one. My favorite authors are Jean M. Auel and Linda Rios Brook…but I’ve had some fellow authors who write horror inspire and encourage me quite a bit. Just to mention a few: David Moody, Joe McKinney, and Gregory Norris.
What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why? My writing style is easy-to-read flow, I guess. I strive to write relatable characters that use natural dialogue, while at the same time, help the reader not to be taken out of the story by awkward wording. I outline long projects (novellas or novels) by chapter, but usually as a loose outline so I know where I’m going and what I want to happen.
Do you write every day? How much? How long? I wish! I’m a busy woman (wife, mother, and self-employed). I take writing time when I can get it. I tend to write more, and am happier with my progress, when I have big chunks of time to write.
Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why? Yes! Reading is a great way to study other styles of writing. Reading can also inspire new stories ideas. Also, if you don’t have the urge to write for whatever reason, reading will usually bring you out of that funk.
What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Writing is rough. It’s going to take time, energy, and a lot of emotional highs and lows, but don’t give up. Also…learn as much about spelling and punctuation as you can! Well-written and edited works have a higher chance of publication.
Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? Make friends with other writers in your genre and coordinate blog tours and signings together. You will then be cross-exposed to each other’s fans and you’ll have moral support for the hard times.
Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? I have yet to actually attend a conference, but hope to this coming year. But I have coordinated events online with other authors in my area and we’ve had signings together as well.
Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? I’m on Facebook under Author/Editor Rebecca Besser, on Twitter @BeccaBesser, and you can visit my blog or website www.rebeccabesser.wordpress.com www.rebeccabesser.com Amazon Author Page Besser Events My books are available from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

As far as events…I was just on the #WinterofZombie tour with over forty authors (Nov. 2015). Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Melissa Carrigee http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/rebecca-besser/

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENTS

Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Melissa Carrigee Melissa.C@llallc.net Agent, Marketing and Publicity – Melissa Carrigee

Facebook Melissa Carrigee Covers Melissa Carrigee Book Trailers

Carrigee Graphic Art Contract Template

-----
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, September 11, 2015

True Stories of US Enlisted Men Pilots

Author: Michael G. Uva
Product Details
1 Paperback: 178 pages
2 Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform;
3 First Edition (January 5, 2015)
4 Language: English
5 ISBN-10: 1506015832
6 ISBN-13: 978-1506015835
Genre: Historical Fiction

Reviewed By Michelle Stanley for Readers’ Favorite
Review Rating:
5 Stars!

“There are only two types of fairy tales told in the Corps; one begins with, “Once upon a time…” the other, “This is no shite!” - Tippy (Tales of Flying Sergeants) Enlisted Fighter Pilots in WW11.

Robert “Tippy” Tipatue, a skilled mechanic, enlisted in the Marines after the attack on Pearl Harbor. He was an ingenious, courageous, forthright man who took his mechanical assignments seriously at the Maw Airbase. This enabled him to move quickly through the ranks to become a fighter pilot, much to the regret of First Lieutenant Goldberg, a commissioned Officer who disapproved of enlisted men becoming pilots. Tippy and other trained enlisted pilots had many close encounters with death while fighting the Japanese, and their living conditions were basic, but they learned to keep their spirits up with moral support, a few fights, and pranks.

Michael G. Uva has written this very poignant military fiction as a warm-hearted tribute to Master Gunnery Sergeant Charles W. Tippy, a “salty old Marine” with whom he served. He wrote compassionately, recollecting tales filled with sadness, nostalgia and mirth of the war. Surviving Marines who pay tribute to Pastor Tippy at his funeral narrate with stirring tales of their friendship with the deceased throughout intervals in the book. Pastor Tippy rarely spoke of his Marine years, so his grieving congregation were surprised to see politicians, actors, other public figures, and a Japanese veteran turn out to pay their respects. The cover illustration is lovely and the story made a very interesting read.

SYNOPSIS

World War II is raging. The war is going badly for the Americans. A young, backwoods car mechanic from Louisiana enlists in the Marines after Pearl Harbor is hit.
The U.S.A. has more planes than pilots. Several U.S. Marine mechanics, (both auto and aircraft) get a crash course in flying fighter planes. Now they find themselves in a battle for their lives against superior, outnumbering forces.

Problems soon occur on base when a Harvard educated officer joins the squadron. He does not believe that enlisted men have the ability to fly as well as officers. Soon after, all the mechanic pilots are relegated, back to ground duty. During a surprise attack, the enemy forces surround the pilot’s quarters, trapping them. One enlisted pilot manages to takeoff in a fully loaded P-51. Within minutes, the officers are freed and soon join the lone enlisted man aloft. Now the Harvard officer is forced to fly as a team with the enlisted man, in a fight for their lives.
The story unfolds in a series of flashbacks at the enlisted hero’s current day funeral by some of the former fighter pilots he fought alongside of.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tippy was inspired by true stories of US “Enlisted Men” that were elevated to the positions of “Fighter Pilots” during WWll. Author Michael Uva says, " I had the honor and privilege to have personally flown a few flights out of El Toro air base with one of these Heroic Marine Enlisted Pilots while I served in the Marines."

Tippy is a “Historical Fiction.” The story is an amalgam of fiction and history, with a slight bias toward authentic history.

---- 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.

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Raja Krishnan Reviews Thriller Set in Rome

Book Title: Imperium: A Novel of Ancient RomeAuthor: Robert Harris
Publisher: Pocket
Publisher Address: 1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
ISBN: 9780743498661
Genre: Historical Fiction
List Price: $14.00

Reviewed by Raja Krishnan for Excitement Books and Amazon
reviewer website: http://excitementbooks.blogspot.com/

Do you enjoy reading good legal thrillers, how about politics, or history? If the answer to this question is all of the above then I have the book for you. That book is Imperium by Thomas Harris. The first part is legal thriller a la Steve Martini meets ancient Rome, and the second part is about the politics in the first republic of the world. For those of you that have read Steven Saylor’s earlier historical mystery fiction on Rome, Thomas Harris’ Imperium is similar although more focused on the legal, and politics for Rome rather than the wonderful mystery of Steven Saylor’s books.

The central character that drives this story is the historical Roman oratorical figure of Marcus Cicero. The story is narrated from the perspective of Cicero’s secretary, Tiro. At the start of the book the writing style can seem legal in nature and too Romanesque. As the story moves forward, I found that this same language and style immersed me into that period of time. It became as if I was taken back in time and were listening to Tiro directly.

In the first three quarters of the book the author builds a nice foundation, which picks up momentum to a dramatic climax and then leads to an exciting conclusion. The initial foundation is developed with the rise of Cicero as an orator and lawyer by taking on a challenging case. This case and all the political drama involved was conveyed through some descriptive storytelling.

I would highly recommend this book for advanced readers of court room dramas or political thrillers. Imperium achieves all this with the backdrop of ancient Rome. A way of getting excited about History is to start by reading Historical Fiction. This book may peak the curiosity and interest of those non-history lovers to give History a chance. In this case the excitement of Ancient Roman Republic history.

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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 loved. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by author names, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the index 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.

And while you're at it, as a courtesy to the author, please retweet this post:

Sunday, August 3, 2014

Historical Christian Fiction Is Much More Than Its Genres

Title "...Like Footprints in the Wind: A Generation Lost"

Author: Pamela Atherstone
Author Link: http://atherstonep.wix.com/jahnlechronicles
Genre: Historical Fiction/ Christian
ISBN: 9781432797737

Purchase on Amazon

Reviewed by F.T. Donereau for Rebecca’s Reads (8/13) http://rebeccasreads.com/atherstonelikefootprintsinthewind

Pamela Atherstone's "...Like Footprints in the Wind: A Generation Lost," is certainly a Historical novel in every sense of the word. I do believe though, that it brings much more to the table than is normally associated with that particular genre. You have a sweeping tale of family and tribulations and love and faith. You have a place and time that evokes distance from modern life. All of this is the normal thing for such a work but somehow the author brings it to us in a way that makes us able to feel the world inhabited by the Jahnle family and those around them, as if it were actually us, or loved ones of our own. The story comes alive fully and enables us to live it along with the characters. This is rare in Historical undertakings. And welcome.

As the book opens Johannes Jahnle is a farmer about to harvest his crops. The yield looks promising and he is a contented man. The Russian world he lives in is his as much as anyone’s. He loves his wife and children and they are happy in their lives. Simply because they are of German descent though, they are in trouble. I had never heard of the Purge of the Kulaks prior to the reading of this fine novel. Based on real stories, the tale that unfolds is an astonishing, gut wrenching one. The family is torn from their land and all they know by Russian soldiers. They are forced to endure a harrowing journey that leads them to the isolating deprivation that is the labor camps on the coast of the White Sea, in Siberia. Getting there is a fraught existence. The world they arrive into ends up being an ice brick scratched out of some devil's frozen hell. Miss Atherstone carves these things to life in such a way as to make them as compellingly real as any moment that might have been truly experienced by the reader, employing the kind of writing that makes great fiction, great story telling.

The author does not rely on flowery prose to evoke her worlds. Clean hard lines are used to draw the pictures between the covers of "…Like Footprints In The Wind." This is as it should be. The story, at times, is brutal. The family faces trials that seem and probably were designed to tear them down to nothing. Sorrows within are immense. There is great cruelty, deprivation, and even death. If the words used were not cut out of stone, a false prettiness might have covered things, which would have only taken away from what is being laid down here.

Johannes Jahnle is a good man. He is wise and blessed with an inner strength his family would have been hard pressed to survive without. There is that kind of strength in his wife, Katerina, as well. It was lifting to find a woman protagonist who did not crumble and fade under enormous pressures. I confess though that I think my favorite of the characters may be the Jahnle's daughter, Anya. She is a spirit of high order and love becomes her. The family is bolstered by their faith. It is the thing, I think, that really brings them through. It is tested and finally clung to. That, as well, is refreshing.

Really I find this book an important work; it brings forth an historical happening, a tragic piece of history the world ought to know better. Miss Atherstone is a master story teller. The goodness that flows through the horror wrought is a dynamic any age needs more of. The Jahnle's are a people I would love to know. Their faith is a special thing. It all might have been less in the hands of someone not as capable as Pamela Atherstone. She should find great success with this saga. Trust me when I say, you will gain knowledge and feel things deeply simply by opening the pages and falling into them.

Added note: This book is the Winner of the 2013 Best Fiction Award for Rebecca's Reads. Permission to reprint reviews was granted by Rebecca's Reads as part of the contest. This book is also currently a finalist in two categories in the Reader's Favorite Book Reviews and Awards Contest.

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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/

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

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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.

Pages

Sunday, December 6, 2015

Literary Agent Interviews Horror Writer

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Simon Barrett Reviews Chip Wagar's Historical Novel

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

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Friday, December 18, 2015

Interview: Author of Please Say Kaddish for Me

Thursday, January 7, 2016

Interview: Daniel Lorti Borrows from Background in Arms for Historical Fiction

Monday, January 18, 2016

Horror Writer Admits She Likes Her "Inner Demons" to Squeal with Delight

Friday, September 11, 2015

True Stories of US Enlisted Men Pilots

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Raja Krishnan Reviews Thriller Set in Rome

Sunday, August 3, 2014

Historical Christian Fiction Is Much More Than Its Genres

Friday, December 4, 2015

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

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