Author Interview: Jade Rawlings

Pic provided by interviewee

Hi Jade, Thanks for taking the time to chat with me today.

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Jade Rawlings. I am 20-years-old, and writing is my passion! Ever since I was little, I knew I wanted to be an Author. As a child I was captivated by the magic of words, and as an adult, I still find myself filled with that childlike joy. I am honored to be a full time Author!

How many books have you published?

I have eight published books. I am an award winning poet, graphic designer, editor, musician, licensed medicinal herbalist, and small business owner! When I’m not writing you can find me learning a new skill or instrument!

Tell us about the book you want to highlight.

Home For The Holidays is a Clean Christmas romance, featuring a paralysed main character and an old family friend. Throughout my book you can find more than just slow burn romance, because the main and true theme is learning that self worth is not defined by ability or others expectations. Being disabled does not mean being disqualified from life, opportunity,  or success.

I started writing this novel while watching Hallmark Christmas movies, i found something missing, in both representation but also in morality. I decided if I can’t watch the type of representation I want, then I’ll write it for others to read! The entire novel took me about 3 months to write. I designed my own covers.

cover provided by author

Tell us about one other book or series and why it’s important to you.

I have 3 poetry books, 4 self-help books, a crime thriller, and a Christmas romance. Poetry is my emotional outlet and platform where I make a stand and try to end the stigma around bipolar, borderline personality, and other mental health diagnoses.

Knowledge is power and the reason people are losing their lives to these illnesses are because of the lack of accurate representation and education to end the negative stigmas and stereotypes.

When do you consider a work complete?

I started writing at 7-years-old but did not get published until I was 18. Writing for me, is a lifestyle. I don’t write because I want to I write because I could not imagine NOT writing. It is as necessary as breathing, when you have a story, a purpose, and a drive burning inside you, you don’t get the choice to not let it out!

As a full time writer, my day consists of writing from 8 AM to 10 PM, with the occasional break to make a coffee, play an instrument, or gather my thoughts before diving back in! I consider the work complete when my characters tell me they have reached their goals. All good stories are based on fear vs. desire, but when the character finally overcomes their disbelief, and overcomes that fear to reach their most authentic desire, then the story can rest!

What animal do you most relate to?

My spirit animal is a Whale! They dive deep into the subconscious (symbolized by the depth of the ocean). They are heavily emotional animals, creating lifetime bonds, and are playful, yet enduring!

How do you think your personal chances of survival are in an apocalypse? (zombie or other)

As a licensed medicinal herbalist, and self-proclaimed jack-of-all-trades with minor certificates in pottery (for making supplies such as cooking utensils and weaponry, as well as a certificate in wildlife survival/ brushwork/ and shelter making, I think I would be a valuable asset should an apocalypse come!

Conclusion:

Well, I’d definitely want you on my team in an apocalypse. Thanks for chatting, Jade.

Contact:
If you’d like to know more about Jade’s writings, visit her amazon page.

If you want to get 5 clean audio promos a month. Sign up here.

Have You Tried Kindle Vella Yet?

Christmas Shorts – (Mystery, thriller, Christian, suspense; Ongoing; story 1 is complete) Only one story right now, but will be a collection of short stories with characters from across my series. Typically, FBI agents with personal drama. Might feature an abundance of cute puppies.

The Minder Project Season 1 – (scifi, genetic engineering, superpowers; shares characters with Dustin’s Decision, Updated Wednesdays) The government gave her genetic Gifts. Now, it wants what it paid for from the program.

5 Steps to Better Dialogue – (nonfiction, writing skills; Complete) I feel like nonfiction titles should come with spoiler tags. This is a book for writers seeking to learn more about the creation of realistic characters and dialogue.

Assassin School Season 1 – (thriller, YA; Complete) Teen spies try to survive the rigorous training and other drama as powerful people battle to control the Ghost children.

Dustin’s Decision Devya’s Children Book 5 – (YA scifi, shares characters with The Minder Project; Complete) Genetically altered teens struggle to navigate the murky world and control their Gifts.

Author Interview: Debbie Manber Kupfer – Fantasy

About you:

Tell me a little about your background.

I grew up in London, spent time in Israel, North Carolina and New York and somehow ended up in St. Louis, MO where I live with my family including two fantastic felines—Whiskey Boop and Miri Billie Joe. I divide my time between writing, editing and creating puzzles. I believe with enough tea and dark chocolate you can do anything.

Me: Not sure I agree on the dark chocolate thing, but I’m with ya on the tea thing.

What do you do for fun?

Read and play board and card games mostly.

Me: Do you read in the same genre you write or do you like to mix it up?

Who or what inspires you the most?

Anything and everything. I like to take walks outside each day and can easily get inspired by random stuff I see when I’m walking.

About your writing:

What other writers/people do you consider inspirational? If they’re authors, what about their work captures your interest?

Biggest one these days is Neil Gaiman. I live the whimsy and weirdness in his writing.

What got you into writing?

I’ve been writing ever since I was small. In fact I sent my first story to a magazine (The Puffin Post) when I was around 8 or 9. I got a mention too in the mag and I was really proud!

What is your writing process?

I try to start each day by writing at least 500 words. Some days I do more, but by starting with the 500 I know I at least add a little each day.

me: That’s a good number.

When do you consider a work complete?

When I come to the end of the story! It takes several drafts and time with my beta readers and editor – all in all usually between 6 months and a year per book.

About your book:

My main series, P.A.W.S. features an international organization of shapeshifters – The Partnership of Animagi, Werewolves and Shapeshifters. I have 6 books out so far and am currently working on books 7 and 8. Books 1 through 4 are out on Audible and my narrator is recording book 5.

Me: That’s exciting. Yay. Audios!

Do you write in other genres?

In addition to my main series I also write children’s picture books and short stories. My favorite picture book is probably Adana the Earth Dragon about the little dragon who can do big things. This book is also in ebook, paperback and audio book.

Me: I’ve heard Adana the Earth Dragon. It was adorable.

What animal do you most relate to?

Cat of course! Nearly all of my stories feature some kind of kitty!

Me: You know, I think you might be the one person I knew that answer before asking.

What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream?

Mint Chocolate Chip – Yum!

Me: Agreed. Best flavor ever.

How could friends and fans get to know more about you and your work?

Website: https://debbiemanberkupfer.wordpress.com/

Social Media Links:

Facebook Author Page

Twitter

Amazon Author Page  

Thanks for chatting with me today. Sounds like exciting things are happening for you. In fact, I heard you had some promos coming up. So, hopefully, people know to check out that amazon page for some good deals.

Audiobook Promotions …

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is rc-1-3-audio-ad-1024x536.jpg

Many of my 42 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Dark Side of Science, Malia’s Miracles, and Varick’s Quest.
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)

Author Interview: A. Nation – Multigenre

About you:

Tell me a little about your background.

I’ve always wanted to write stories since I was a child. I loved to read books all through my school years. My younger sister tells me she enjoyed my imaginary stories with our dolls growing up. I attained a Computer Information degree in my college days. Later I ran my own tshirt shop business. Well, after work, life, and no self-publishing available in my younger years during the 80s, I didn’t get the writing bug until 2011. I’m retired now and loving every minute of writing. Finally, I can put my imagination to good use.

What do you do for fun?

We used to get together with friends and have parties. But since that cannot be, we go jeeping into the desert here in Arizona. Jeeping means, we explore with our jeeps.

Who or what inspires you the most?

Our space technology, fictional historical accounts, and mysteries. The creative process fascinates me.

I have read lots of Agatha Christie, Isaac Asimov, and many others before I started writing. My genres cover science fiction, urban fantasy, and travel mysteries. I recently did a non-fiction about a bridge collapse in my home town. The proceeds from that are donated to the local museum.

What other writers/people do you consider inspirational? If they’re authors, what about their work captures your interest?

I believe I have read all of Rita Mae Brown books including the ones about fox hunting. I’m not interested in that but I like her style. She had talking animals that would save the day, so I have added some to my sci-fi books. When I catch an interesting story in the news. I use the theme of the story. I’ve used a few of those in my Desert Shock book.

What got you into writing?

I walked into the library one day to pick up my usual 5-8 books and saw a sign that said, Do you have a story in you? Writing class at 1:00pm on Tuesdays.  So I signed up. At that point I really didn’t know much about writing since my college days long, long ago. I took a couple of classes online and aced those. Since I was a snowbird at the time, it took me almost two years to finish my first book and know how writing and publishing operates. Since then, I write three books a year plus a few novellas.

What is your writing process?

After breakfast, I sit down and write the movie in my head. I have found taking a break and walking around the neighborhood creates more scenes to add. I write most of the day until 4:00pm unless there is some shopping or housework to do. After 4:00, it’s my time to do something else.

When do you consider a work complete?

When the story problem has been resolved or if I have to tie up loose ends.

About your book(s):

Are there any deep themes or messages in the book the readers should be aware of?

Good overcomes evil and sometimes after all the work my MC does, evil gets away. My sci-fi is how we might live on Mars in the future, if we do. The detective books focuses on mother nature getting revenge, killers getting their karma, and how people with power can fail.

In my UF series, I explore witches and elves. My fiction mimics life. The same goes for all of my stories. The person next door may not be who you think they are.

What gave you the idea for this book?

For my first sci-fi book, it was becoming the never ending story for my writing class. I had this idea of us interviewing aliens and what would happen if one of them was murdered.

For my UF, I had this story about a woman who lost her husband to a terrible car accident and finds herself in another world. This was my first nanowrimo book. I wrote this in 11 days.

For my Travel stories, I went on these trips and wove a story around my experiences.

How long did the book take to write?

Each book takes about 3-4 months depending how long it is and when my beta readers come back to me. One is a good editor. I started my latest book, The Magic Within, in July and after it was edited, I placed it into preorder until the end of November of this year.

Who designed the cover?

I design my own covers. I ran a screen print shop for 20 years and did all the design work on a Coreldraw program. I use that and send it through my writing group for a yea or a nay.

About your other book(s):

Do you write in other genres?

Science fiction, urban fantasy, travel, and one non-fiction

Tell us about one other book or series and why it’s important to you.

I’ll tell you about my sci-fi called Fatal Error. Parts in the beginning I was a witness. A person died in the hospital due to negligence by a family member. Then my fictional story takes off. In the end, the killer gets her deserved end. A back story to this is when a robot becomes sentient.

That’s a lot of cool books.

Random Questions:

What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream?

Vanilla

Me: Solid, classic choice.

What are you non-writing hobbies or interests?

Writing is my hobby or traveling with my husband

Me: Oh, cool. Now I want to know what’s the best place you’ve been.

Website:

Social Media Links

Author FB Page

Facebook page

Audiobook Promotions …

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is rc-1-3-audio-ad-1024x536.jpg

Many of my 42 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Dark Side of Science.
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is DC-set-ad-1024x536.jpg

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)

Author Interview: Amy Schisler

Hey all,

Today we have an author, Amy Schisler, joining us. Welcome. She’s got a new book that just released December 1st. Congrats on that. I’m told the audio will be ready sometime in January. You won’t wanna miss that.

About you:

Tell me a little about your background.

I live on the Eastern Shore of Maryland with my husband and two daughters—when they aren’t away at school. Our oldest daughter got married in September, and that was such a special day for all of us. I’ve lived in Maryland my entire life, but our family has a home in the Rocky Mountains, and we try to get there as much as possible. I was a librarian for fifteen years, shelving other people’s books, and then decided it was time to add my own stories to libraries around the world! I’ve been writing full-time for the past twelve years.

What do you do for fun?

Living on Maryland’s Eastern Shore provides endless ways to have fun, and I try to take advantage of them all! I love to take long walks or hikes in the country, go on boat rides, fish and crab, and spend time lying in our hammock with a good book. We love to go to the Rockies where we hike, ride horses, and climb mountains. I can never get enough of traveling, and my adventures across the US and around the world provide many of the inspirations for my books.

Who or what inspires you the most?

What most inspires me is God and His creations. I love watching the sunrise and the sunset, rocking to the gentle waves of the Chesapeake Bay, and scanning the horizon from the top of a mountain. I also love watching people try and learn new things. Often, it’s seeing how people experience the world that leads me to a good story. From listening to a vintner extol his love for his vineyard to seeing someone ride a horse for the first time, my books and the people in them stem from real life and the highs and lows that we all go through.

About your writing:

What other writers/people do you consider inspirational? If they’re authors, what about their work captures your interest?

I have always devoured every book Mary Higgins Clark wrote, beginning with her first book which I read in middle school. In fact, I can still remember reading that very first MHC book and thinking, I want to be just like her. She told stories that make you feel like you know the people in the books and feel for them. You root for them and want them to make it to the end unscathed. There was always the perfect blend of romance and intrigue. The nature of her stories is exactly what I reach for in my books, and whenever someone compares my books to hers, it’s like I’m coming home, being greeted by my mother or grandmother, and being welcomed into the fold of the family. It’s an almost indescribable joy.

About your books:

Are there any deep themes or messages in the book the readers should be aware of?

All of my books have a deeper meaning, a quest to discover one’s self, one’s purpose, and God. In each person’s own way, they are all searching, all trying to find their places in the world. It’s usually in finding God that they find themselves and develop an understanding of what they are meant to do with their lives. The message is there, but in a subtle way, as is typically the case in real life. In Desert Fire, Mountain Rain, Andi has given up on God. It takes an entire community and the love of a special man to bring her to the realization that God has not given up on her.

What gave you the idea for this book?

Almost all of my books have a central character who is former or current military. Sometimes this is one of the main characters, and other times, it’s someone who has great influence over the main characters. It occurred to me, about a year ago, that there are few if any books about former women in the military. I talked to a good friend who just retired from the Navy, and she agreed that she has never read a book about someone like her. There’s a really interesting difference between men and women in high-ranking military positions because women are expected to act like men while in uniform but like women when at home or play. Creating Andi in Desert Fire, Mountain Rain, a woman who is returning to civilian life, learning to live a life where she doesn’t have to walk that line, was a wonderful and challenging experience for me. I wanted to get it just right and do justice to all women in that position. I’m so grateful to my friend for her help in doing that.

How long did the book take to write?

I wrote the first draft in just a few weeks, which is pretty typical for me at this stage of my writing. However, it takes several more weeks, usually two to three months, before I feel like the book is ready for beta readers, and that’s when the final proofreading takes place. It takes about nine months before the book is ready to be released to the reading public. As many people have pointed out to me, I’m putting in the time and labor to create a book that I hope feels like a living, breathing thing. My goal isn’t just to write a story, it’s to create a life—a realistic community with people that readers want to call their friends.

Me: Cool. That’s a decent pace.

Who designed the cover?

My covers are designed by graphic designer, Patrick Woods, of Woods Graphics in Baltimore. He is wonderful to work with, and I love seeing how he takes the bits and pieces I tell him about the book and my ideas for covers and turns them into something really special.  

Do you write in other genres?

Besides my inspirational novels, I have released two children’s books and two devotionals.

Tell us about one other book or series and why it’s important to you.

My Chincoteague Island Trilogy is so special to me. I’ve sold more copies of those books than anything I’ve written, and I’ve developed a real bond with the people of Chincoteague Island. The books tell the stories of families by blood, by marriage, and by community. The series really showed me how books can be embraced by strangers, and how those strangers become part of me and the stories I tell.

What animal do you most relate to?

The animal I most relate to is my favorite animal, the shark. They are so misunderstood! People assume that sharks are solitary, vengeful, and just looking for their next meal, but marine biologists have learned so much about the ocean, its ecosystem, and how animals live and work together through their studies of sharks. They are the perfect example that living beings are so much more than meets the eye!

Me: Yup. They certainly have a different reputation.

Me: Now we reach the ultimate question …

What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream?

Anything with peanut butter! I love the combination of ice cream and peanut butter. Whether it’s peanut butter swirl (vanilla), peanut butter cup (chocolate), or moose tracks (chocolate ice cream with chocolate fudge and mini peanut butter cups), ice cream with peanut butter is almost always my go-to choice.

Me: Ohhh, Moose Tracks is amazing.

Website:
Amy Schisler, Author
Social Media Links:

FB Page

Instagram – AmySchislerAuthor

Twitter – @AmySchislerAuth

Audiobook Promotions …

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is rc-1-3-audio-ad-1024x536.jpg

Many of my 42 audible titles are listed on Audiobooks Unleashed.
Whether you’re looking for mystery or suspense or fantasy, I’ve got a title for you. Free codes are probably on audiobooks unleashed.
Normal links go to audible. *The Amazon labeled links are affiliate links. That means I get a very small payment from Amazon if you go through with a purchase.*
Note: Filter by US if you’re looking for those codes as many titles are out.
Ones I think may still have US codes: Innova, The Golden City Captives, The Dark Side of Science, Malia’s Miracles, and Varick’s Quest.
There are plenty of UK codes, but not many US ones left.

Redeemer Chronicles (Fantasy)

Awakening – Redeemer Chronicles Book 1, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
The Holy War – Redeemer Chronicles Book 2, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
Reclaim the Darklands – Redeemer Chronicles Book 3, MG fantasy (Amazon) (free codes)
River’s Edge Ransom – Prequel to Redeemer Chronicles (Amazon) (email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)

Devya’s Children Series Links:

Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – short stories featuring Jillian. (Amazon) (free codes)
The Dark Side of Science – official prequel to Devya’s Children; Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live. (Amazon) (Please email devyaschildren @ gmail.com for free codes)
Ashlynn’s Dreams – Genetically altered Dream Shaper learns her gift. (Amazon) (free codes)
Nadia’s Tears – Jillian tries to awaken her sister, Nadia, from a coma. (Amazon) (free codes)
Malia’s Miracles – Jillian and her siblings try to save a friend’s mother. (Amazon) (free codes)
Varick’s Quest – Jillian and Danielle get kidnapped. Nadia’s also in trouble. (Amazon) (free codes)
More Scifi:
Reshner’s Royal Ranger (epic sci-fi) just made it there. (Amazon) (free codes)

Guardian Angel Files:

Spirit’s Bane – Allister and Mina are training to be Guardians. Satan’s out to get them. (Amazon) (free codes)
Kindred Spirits – Mina’s exiled to Earth. Allister’s stuck in the Heavens. (Amazon) (free codes)

Interview with Author/Narrator Steve Cook

Introduction:

Today, we have a special treat, an interview with an author who also happens to be a narrator. Or is he a narrator who’s also an author? Let’s find out. Welcome, Steve Cook.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I’ve been voicing, producing and publishing audiobooks since 2006. Before that I produced radio and TV commercials and imaging for stations across the country. Previous gigs include KIIS-FM, XTRA Sports 1150 and Channel 103.1 in Los Angeles, AIR1 Radio Network, and Sportsradio 680 The Fan in Atlanta. After graduating from Berea College in KY, I spent many years acting on the stages and soundstages of New York and Los Angeles, appearing with Esther Rolle Off-Broadway at the Roundabout Theatre in New York in “Member of the Wedding”, with Helen Mirren at the Tiffany Theatre in L.A. in “Woman In Mind”, and on the daytime drama “Days of Our Lives”. Recently I was heard as the Narrator on the hit series “Swamp Murders” on Investigation Discovery Channel (2013-2017). My audiobook credits include five #1 Amazon Best-Sellers, The “1599 Geneva Audio Bible” (currently working on The Revised Geneva Translation), “Tom Sawyer: A One-Hour Classic” (Abridged & Fully Dramatized with cinematic music and sfx), a one-man 32-voice “A Christmas Carol” (Unabridged & Fully Dramatized), “Rowdy Raccoon and the Turtle Who Wanted to Fly”, “Danger at Wolf Rock”, “Plop! Goes the Blue Swirl Ice Cream”, “Gift of the Magi Audiobook” (Abridged and Fully Dramatized), Ken Ham’s “Ready to Return” and Randy Pope’s “The Answer”. My memorization devotional series called “Memo Devo” has been a featured resource on the most popular Bible website in the world, BibleGateway.com, and my audio devotional/study series called “Witness The Bible” is currently featured on BG and has been since 2011. The New Testament of the Revised Geneva Translation has just been accepted for streaming by BG, starting this Summer. Since October of 2017 I’ve also been blessed to be the podcast producer of Rick Warren’s “Daily Hope” program. Go Braves!

I’m gonna let the Braves thing go … we can agree to disagree on that.

What do you do for fun?

I enjoy hanging out with my 10-yr-old daughter and 13-yr-old son, and getting away with my hard-working wife when we can. Otherwise, I suppose my main hobby these days is the parsing of the autographs and primary translations of the Greek New Testament. (I know, exciting stuff.)

To each their own. I collect Legos. To most people, they’re just painful things to step on.

Share a bit about your writing.

What other writers/people do you consider inspirational?

I especially enjoy biographies, especially political and historical figures.

I’m not much of a nonfic person, but history is pretty fascinating.

What got you into writing?

At this point I would consider myself more of an editor than a writer. I take existing historical manuscripts and parse them for clarity. Then fill them with as much passion as I can in performance.

Editing is a huge part of writing.

What is your writing process?

I have about 5 different websites I filter manuscripts through in order to arrive at a satisfactory translation.

When do you consider a work complete?

When I’m convinced that either I am in agreement with the best scholarship available on a particular passage, or barring consensus, I’ve satisfied my own sense of logic and revealed truth. This applies to both editing and vocal performances.

Tell us about one of your books:

Who designed the cover?

I design all the RGT covers.

Do you write in other genres?

Not yet.

What would you like to try if you were to check out a diff genre?

Tell us about one other book or series and why it’s important to you. Memo Devo: Memorization As Devotion (3 Book series) This is important to me because it’s part of a continuing mission to activate more of God’s Word in people’s daily lives, through a radically ancient concept called Active Scripture Memorization. I believe MD has the power to help us experience better intimacy with God, a better witness for God, and better protection under God, all while using time and resources we already possess.

Let’s dig deeper into the random side of you:

What’s one thing very few people know about you?

That I am a very good golfer.

Cool. Never tried it … er, more than mini-golf anyway.

What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream?

Cookie Dough

Ohhh, nice choice.

Where can we get in touch with you if we want to know more?

Website: 5talentsaudio.com Facebook.com/fivetalentsaudio Twitter: @5TalentsAudio

But wait… there’s more.

What brought you to working on this project?

I perceived a need among the faith community for a new modern translation of this particular type of Bible.

What was the hardest part of bringing this story to life?

The same as always: To tell a story well without self-consciousness.

Do you have a favorite character voice from the project? Why/ why not?

I enjoy them all. The antagonists are usually a bit more interesting dramatically, like Pilate or Herod, but the protagonists like Jesus and Paul can provide great vocal challenges too.

Do you have a favorite chapter from the project? Why/ why not?

I always relish the opportunity to record well-known sections of the Bible like The Beatitudes or the Lord’s Prayer or something because it provides such a great chance to reveal God’s heart in fresh new ways. Is there anything you’d like listeners to know about this work before they hear your performance? That this is the way most folks first received the Bible in the 1st Century – orally, through story. Most were illiterate and could not read the early letters and dispatches the churches would receive, so they had to speak them back out loud to each other. The great thing about that is that we know how amazingly vibrant in the community these churches were in terms of loving those around them. Hopefully these recordings can have a similar effect today.

Do you have any other narrated works?

So far about 30.

What was the most challenging other work you’ve voiced?

I just began working on The Ancient Book of Jasher. That is gonna be a bear, mostly because of the formatting of the text. I prefer nice big 20-pt font on 6×9 pages. This is a pdf on 8.5×11 so it’s not a matter of just enlarging the text. I just don’t like having to read a lot of words across each line, especially when the text is archaic prose like this. I may need to take the time to try and re-format that whole pdf. 18 hours of joy.

There are some programs that do that. Try Calibre. Change it to Word then mess with the margins yourself.

What is the easiest work you’ve voiced?

Interestingly, it was another ancient book, The Book of Enoch, which was the first project my publishing partner, Robert Bagley, and I recorded back in 2016. I don’t know why but that one just rolled off the tongue like no other before or since. It spent 35 weeks in the Top 20 of its Audible Category in 2016 and has sold nearly 13,000 copies worldwide as of this writing. Go figure!

That’s awesome. Congrats!

What’s the most fun project you’ve worked on?

Rowdy Raccoon and the Turtle Who Wanted to Fly I think the title says it all. 😉 Children’s Books will always reign supreme for me as far as acting challenges and fun.

It does indeed. It’s been hit or miss for me reviewing kids’ books.

Is this the only acting you do? If you do other forms of acting, which is your favorite and why?

Right now it is. I hear Atlanta is a pretty happening place to be these days for on-screen. I thought about getting my printed headshot/resume back together, renting an IMDB page, doing the website, agent, the whole bit. But decided I just don’t have the time or resources to do that right for now. Just too much on the plate. Maybe when I retire!

I didn’t know IMDB pages were rented. Learn something new every day.

If you could only leave 1 lasting impression on the world, what would it be?

The love of Christ.

What kind of movies do you enjoy?

I like war documentaries. The strategies, the geeks who they interview, the human interest, all of it. I get so mad at the horrible decisions the generals make and then so mesmerized when they describe a soldier’s letter home to his wife or a great act of heroism. I’m that guy who imagines he was born 200 years too late. My wife even just turned me on to Outlander. Just hopeless.

If you could meet one person from history or present time, who would it be and why?

Lincoln. Just read his biography.

It’s been a while…share how we can connect with you again.

Website: audiooven.com Social Media Links: Facebook.com/audiooven Twitter: @AudioOven

Conclusion:

There you have it, folks. Thanks for stopping by, Steve. I’m guessing we’ll be hearing a whole lot more from you.

Associate Links:

Means I make a few cents on your interest here… Amazon Prime
The Collins Case – 2 FBI agents track down a kidnapped family. Kid friendly. If fantasy’s more your thing, go Redeemer Chronicles. The first, Awakening, is available as an audiobook. Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts – a kid deals with her parents’ divorce, bullies, and the wonder of discovery. Try The Dark Side of Science – Genetically altered kids fight for the right to live.
OR

Indie e-Con Scavenger Hunt 2018 – Stop #21 (J.J. Francesco)

Introduction:

Hey, I’m J.J. Francesco and my books are probably one of the only places in the literary world where you can get a hybrid of Criminal Minds type psychopath, Lifetime movie type melodrama, and Sunday morning Catholic themes. Well, at least I like to think so.

If you’re here, you’re probably on a scavenger hunt. Hope you’re having fun. I’m supposed to introduce myself here but there’s not a big story to tell. I was never a good reader and still am not, but I liked TV and Movies. I took this weird path from motion picture fan to writing prose that still kind of baffles me. But stories are just that powerful, I guess.

My Publishing Story:

After several failed attempts to get into “writing a book,” when I was 18, I decided to dip into personal experiences to tell a radical “what if” version of a trauma that happened to me in first grade. This novel draft became what would, years later, become my third published book, Because of Austin. Despite my attachments to my crime series revolving around Detective Julie Martel, I think Because of Austin may be the work I am the most proud to share. It touches on several social themes facing our kids today and I think it’s a book that both younger and adult audiences can benefit from.

The book originally looked very different, but after reading Emma Donoghue’s Room, I gutted the book start to finish and literally rewrote almost every word. The structure of the story remained intact and yet so many more nuances came out in this rewrite. It was the first time I really feel another book influenced me for the better. And now? I can hardly imagine this book any other way. While a few small things got lost in the translation that I do miss, there was so much more gained in this narrative approach that I can’t even think of looking back. I hope readers who discover my books will connect with my characters and ultimately find new friends that will stick in their heads for a long while.

My Stories:

Blood Chain, Death Scene, and Because of Austin.

Conclusion:

There are still so many stories left in me to tell. And I hope one day I can un-scatter my brain enough to get them out there to the world. But for now, I have 3 books that I am immensely proud of and that’s something, right?

Want to stay in touch?

Amazon:
Facebook:
facebook.com/jjfrancesco
Twitter: @jjfrancesco

 

And Now Your Hunt Here Ends and Begins Anew …

 

Thanks for stopping by. Best of luck in the game.

 

Link to Full Scavenger Hunt: http://kendrasgiraffecrafts.blogspot.com/p/indie-e-con-2018-scavenger-hunt-stops.html

Author Interview with Nix Wittaker Author of Model Serenity

Author Interview:

Hey, join me in welcoming Nix Wittaker today. Hope you’re all having a lovely weekend.

Tell me a little about your background.

I was born in South Africa on the east coast. Mosquitos and green mamba rather than lions and giraffe Africa. I left when I was a young girl and moved to New Zealand with my family. And traded snakes and sharks with earthquakes and volcanoes.

 

What do you do for fun?

Reading and looking after kittens. I’m a foster mom for the RSPCA and hand rear week old kittens or help tame feral kittens.

 

Who or what inspires you the most?

My grandfather believed in collecting useless information. I do the same and that is where I get most of my ideas.

 

 

About your writing:

What got you into writing?

I’m dyslexic but when I was growing up no at school figured that out because I’m also a smart cookie so they suggested I read books. I read a lot. Talking about 3 digits and so I ran out of books to read and started writing my own.

 

What is your writing process?

I am not a pantser I always plan out the book. Not in detail. I plan it out start writing and then pause when I get a feel for my characters and go back to put more detail into the plan. Then I write the exiting bits and figure out why the rest isn’t interesting. Once I figure those out I start having others start reading chapters and giving me feedback while I tweak and polish.

 

When do you consider a work complete?

Never. I like to go back over and over. I usually publish though after I spend the cash on an editor. My mother is an artist and she is the same. She usually sells her work or paints over it as it never seems perfect. At least with writing you can forever tweak it.

 

About your book:

Are there any deep themes or messages in the book the readers should be aware of?

My book is set on another planet where some crazy scientists have played eugenics. The same stuff the Nazi were trying during WWII, I wanted to show that our racism in this day and age is insidious and everywhere.

me: That’s a great theme. I’ve got a series with crazy scientists too. (I’m a chem teacher too…so I get the appeal of going nuts with science.)

 

What gave you the idea for this book?

I’ve had this idea for a long time. But the original was a fantasy but I find I write Sci-Fi better and when I changed it to science fiction the story became something new. There are a few things that came over from the fantasy version like the names of the caste systems.

 

How long did the book take to write?

Longer than usual. My first novel took 3 months, to write this one it is already at a year but I have managed to knock out the next book in the series in that time as well. I thought I would write the whole series before I published.

 

Who designed the cover?

I design my own covers but don’t take that as permission to make your own. I am also a digital designer and sell covers professionally. If you are an author let the designer do their job, it is what you pay them for in the first place. I cringe when an author wants you to change everything or add in too much on the cover.

Me: Ha, yes, I can understand that. Wow, if I were a digital designer that would save me a whole heap of money :-). I’ve only ever made my nonfiction covers b/c they’re mainly text. (It is a very cool cover.)

Do you write in other genres?

I have another series in Steampunk with dragons so in my mind it is alternative history slash fantasy. Though technically it still falls under Science Fiction.

 

Tell us about one other book or series and why it’s important to you.

I’ve another series and this one is set a little in the future after the world has survived global warming. Usually when you have dystopias it is awful but my world isn’t. Humans are amazing and can adapt and that is exactly what they do in this book.

Random:

What animal do you most relate to?

Cats. Who wouldn’t want to lie in the sun and sleep all day.

 

What’s one thing very few people know about you?

What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream? Triple chocolate. I have a distinct soft spot for anything chocolate. Add anything with nuts to the chocolate and I am in heaven.

 

What are you non-writing hobbies or interests?

Art. I’m a decent artist but I realised at a young age that I couldn’t be a great artist. So I thought I would become great at something else.

Conclusion:

If you’d like to learn more about Nix, please visit her website.

Website: www.nixwhittaker.com

Associate links to follow…

Amazon Prime

Free Kindle Reading App

Audible – If you buy some of my audiobooks with your first credits, I’ll pay the first month’s bill (beyond the free ones). (Terms and conditions: must have proof of purchasing my books, like a screenshot. Will also have to have paypal.)