Welcome my Friends 🙂 Happy Saturday and, once again, thank you for stopping by to see just who is In The Lime Light this weekend 🙂 I confess, I am Delighted to share a poet and writer with you who has inspired me since the first time I posted on BnV; a friend who has been around since the beginning and whose writing pushes the boundaries and makes me smile, laugh, gasp, tremble and sigh! You will agree, I am sure, when I tell you that Richard Ankers (whose wonderful blog you can find here: http://richardankers.com ) made a rare appearance in the Interview arena JUST for Booknvolume…well and for all of YOU as well…so my blathering is pointless. Lets Jump Right In shall we? 🙂
IN HIS WORDS: Richard was a Company Director in retail until finally plucking up the courage to show people the writing he had spent years shyly stashing away. Joining HarperCollins’ Authonomy site was the jolt he needed to realise people liked what he wrote. Winning a gold medal there for his book The Snow Lily, was a great boost. Since then, he has spent a long time writing and preparing a trilogy of SciFi/ DarkFantasy books which he hopes to have traditionally published. Richard stopped by for a natter, so lets put the kettle on and get right to it!
Please Introduce us to your Blog. What is it all about? What sorts of posts do you lean towards?
RICHARD: Hello, my name’s Richard. My blog is a place where I post writing and poetry that is on my mind and needs to come out, (there’s far too much in there.) I use my blog as a way of honing my skills for the longer writings that I love. I believe the more you write the better you write and I try to practice what I preach.
What Inspires and stirs your creativity?
RICHARD: Everything inspires me. I can hear a word, or see an image, or even hear something, and it sets off the creative juices. I have written a whole trilogy of books based on one simple image that I saw and was taken by. I never struggle for something to write about because I will never have enough time on this earth to write everything that’s in my mind.
What Message, if any, do you hope to Share through your blog/posts?
RICHARD: I don’t really share any message other than insisting on writing what I want. I would always encourage others to do the same. Don’t pamper to people because the most heartfelt words are those that are most honest, regardless of the length or style they are presented in.
How has your blog helped you as a writer/Indie Author? What things have you learned along the way that you never anticipated?
RICHARD: I wouldn’t say my blog has helped other than not having to worry about wasting what I’ve written. It’s given me a home for all the words.
Tell us about your book(s):
RICHARD: My first book was called The Snow Lily, a story about two abandoned children in Victorian times. I was lucky enough to win a gold medal on the HarperCollins Authonomy site through my efforts. This gave me great confidence (as I have none) and a major boost to my resume. I never had any intention to publish it but one day I might.
I am currently writing a Sci-Fi / Dark Fantasy trilogy. I have made the unusual decision to write all three books in one go and then return to them one by one in order for publishing. I want each book and the trilogy as a whole to be perfect before it goes out there. Believe me when I say, they are unlike any Dark Fantasy book you will have read. The Trilogy was going to be called Decadent Gothic but I have recently altered it to The Eternals Saga, as it’s just a touch more appropriate.
PS. Shhh! They’re almost done.
What Inspired you to write your book?
RICHARD: The whole Eternals Saga was based on a single, spectacular image that I saw. I can’t say what though, as it would give the game away.
From what Point of View do you prefer to write? Is there a reason?
RICHARD: I prefer first person but aren’t particularly bothered. I just find it easier to be in the protagonist’s shoes if I am writing as though it is me. I like to look through my main character’s eyes, so to speak.
How would you describe your “Voice” or Style of writing?
RICHARD: People have said I have a Literary style, but I would leave that to others to decide.
What genre do you prefer to write or are you truly eclectic?
RICHARD: I love every genre. I hate to be pigeonholed. But, dark fantasy and the speculative genres that abut it are my real passion. Basically, things with a fantastical element.
Do you painstakingly plot out your story; are you a discovery writer or a bit of both? Why?
RICHARD: I’m neither. I’m very lucky that the moment I have the idea the whole thing unravels in my head. I have no need to write a word of plot unless I wish to. I know exactly how it will start, finish and everything in-between within moments.
Share an insight or secret about your book(s).
RICHARD: They always have a twist near the end.
What do you feel is your best advice to share with other aspiring authors?
RICHARD: Write what you want how you want. And NEVER, NEVER EVER let anyone tell you that you aren’t good enough. Practise and you will be.
And now, the part most people hate…lets talk About YOU:
If you had to describe yourself to someone who has never met you, what might you say?
RICHARD: I wouldn’t, as I’m too shy in person. I always know what to write but never know what to say. Plus, I’ve never had a very high opinion of myself.
If you could meet one person from the past, who might it be and why?
RICHARD: Nobody in particular.
When you are NOT writing, what is your favourite pastime?
RICHARD: I love to run and do so everyday. I also love nature and all it encompasses.
Describe Your Dream Getaway Destination. Have you ever been there? What makes this place Irresistible to you?
RICHARD: My dream destination is Wengen in Switzerland and I have been there. The place has spectacular scenery, mountains to die for, and once out of the town itself is wonderfully quiet. I also love the British Lake District for similar reasons. I would love to live near mountains and am a very quiet person.
Do you have a Mantra?
RICHARD: Above all else be happy. Life is too short not to be. (Lots of people say that but don’t really mean it. I mean every word of it.)
I am honoured, Richard, that you agreed to share a bit about yourself and your writing with me/us. Thank You Ever So!
You can Follow Richard via Twitter @richardankers
~Morgan~
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How would you go about selling one of your books as a movie idea?
Hi Hugh 🙂 I am actually fortunate enough to know someone in the industry, so I have interest alreayd 😉 However, before a writer can sell his/her story, its crucial to have a fantastic screenplay. Directors want to be able to visualize what your story is going to look like and know how much work is going to be involved in each scene. The best way to convey that information is a screenplay. You can certainly pay someone to write it for you IF you have thousands of dollars at your disposal, but I’ve bought a few books and am learning the process for myself. It will certainly take longer, but who can tell my story better than I? Hope this is helpful? :)Thanks ever so much for joining the conversation! :)Best Success~
Do you give a “Preview” of your books to your family?
Hi CessMee 🙂 I actually give Free Previews of my books to anyone who wants to try it out via my blog as well as the official Dark Fey Website (links Below). My family got free copies of the entire books 🙂 Free Previews and Free copies are a great way to get your work into the hands of readers, who, WHEN they like it, will spread the word about your story for you. Its a fantastic and easy marketing tactic :)Thanks so much for stopping in and chatting 🙂
How can you say that you’ve reached the zenith of success?
Hello Ana 🙂 I certainly cannot say that, and might never say that. After all, Success is an ever-changing ocean of tides and eddys, currents that take you in one direction and then another. Perhaps, if you’ve reached the goals you’ve set for yourself for writing or publishing you may consider that you’ve reached that zenith, but I would then suggest you set new goals 🙂
Thanks ever so much for stopping by and chatting. Blessings~
Where is the best place for you to settle and allow creativity to flood in?
Hi NicZ. For me, this varies. Sometimes it’s outside, sitting quietly amid nature or beneath the starry sky; sometimes its in my ‘writing room’ listening to music; sometimes inspiration hits right in the middle of watching a movie (usually something stirring or inspiring). I’ve written a post on my blog about What Inspires Me and hope you might stop by and enjoy it. What works best for you?Thanks so much for stopping by and chatting :)Blessings~
Which of your books gave you popularity and made you proud?
Hi CBREEZYX3 :)I have to say the entire series has made me proud. It is very rewarding to have written something that has a positive under-lying message, which is being So Well received by readers. However, when I began this journey, I started off by posting out segments of book one, The Reviled, on my blog and that got the ball rolling. All the positive feedback was Very encouraging to me and helped me to decide to publish it ;)Thanks ever so much for stopping in and chatting :)Blessings~
How easy is it for you to manipulate word to form harmony, which resulted in poems?
Hi Faye…GREAT Question. I am very fortunate, indeed. I am Blessed with (perhaps) a not so common ability to write poetry in moments. Once Inspired, the Spirit sings (or the Muse Speaks, depending on your point of view) and very often it is all I can do to keep up. Ive actually written a post on my blog that describes my writing process when this happens, if you are interested 🙂 https://booknvolume.com/2016/02/09/down-from-heaven-2/Personally, I think the most important thing about forming words into musical rhyme is not to be afraid of how someone else might perceive how you ‘sound’. If you have a true Passion for words, harmony, and the music of poetry, let it play in the flow of your words. Thanks so much for stopping by and chatting 🙂 Many Blessings~
Did socialization and community affiliation help you boost your book sales?
Hi BrownRyan :)This is a good one, because I often wonder myself if social media really helps to increase sales. I’ve even done some small tests on the subject, posting verses not posting and watching sales as a result and I have come to the determination that it does, in fact, help. My own personal blog has helped me to forge new friendships, which in turn not only generate sales, but also word of mouth referrals, because friends make recommendations to their friends 😉 Facebook is a good avenue as well, through the use of groups I have been able to build additional alliances and network with other authors who can help spread the word about my books. BUT, and I do beleive this is key, your interactions with other authors and readers need to be genuine. I offer free author spotlights on my blog to help build friendships and support other writers. I do reviews (and always make a concerted effort to give a positive review!) and I use Thursdays on my blog to Share other’s posts exclusively, rather than my own. You will need to discover what works best for you and meshes with your own personality, but, when it’s all said and done, YES, the social media community has helped increase sales.Thanks so much for your question. I wish you all the best success :)Blessings~
How passionate are you about relationships? Does this help you create your fantastic books?
Hi Karen :)I am a passionate person by nature, and I believe this shines through in my characters and writing. I believe very strongly in honesty in relationships, and think that we are only ever truly complete when we find our ‘other half’. Yes, I believe in Soul Mates, and I believe in Being The Miracle; treating others as I would want them to treat me, Karma, whatever you might call it. I think my innate desire for harmony shines through in my writing, and even though I tried to create adversaries in Dark Fey, it ended up more harmonious than I expected, so to answer your questions, I believe it does help creating a believable and relateable realm.Thanks So much for your questions Karen 🙂 I truly appreciate you stopping by :)Blessings~
What do you think is your most valuable asset as a writer?
Hello MBradShaw :)I believe my imagination/creativity is the most valuable, after all, without the ability to create out of nothing, I would find it very difficult to write. I have learned throughout my life, however, that creativity ebbs and flows like a tide. There are times when I can barely keep up with my whirling thoughts and other times when it seems there are none. So, in addition to the gift of creativity, I would also say it is a very valuable asset to be able to understand that gift; to realize that it is not a boundless wellspring, but rather something that needs to be nurtured. Creativity needs to be fed, just like the mind and spirit; and it also needs to rest. Learning what fuels your own creative fire and how to feed it and allow it to recharge is intregral in being a successful, prolific writer…….at least, in my opinion ;)Thanks So Very Much for your question. I hope my answer is of some help or insight.Blessings~
Can you describe a scene from your dreamy evening?
Hi Robert 🙂 Im not entirely sure I completely understand your question, however I guess I could say that nearly all my poetry is a description of my dreams….and since I tend to write most often in the evening, that as well….here‘s one I like.
By the Breath of Twilight,
When Labours Cease and Silence,
For One Fleeting Measure,
Like the Soothing Caress of a Lover’s Hand
That in his Lightest Touch does Ease the Sorrows of the Day and Burdens of the Mind,
A Balm as Sweet as Dulcet Wine to the Lip and
As Fine as the Harmonious Melodies of the Lute,
Fills Each Lingering Breath with Sighs,
Dries the Water from these Searching eyes,
When in that Shifting Light, ‘neath the Lavender Whispers of Eventide,
I See Your Most Beguiling Smile.
. ~Morgan~
Hope this is what you were looking for 🙂 Thanks so much for asking!Blessings~
What is the secret to persevering challenges every writer has to hurdle?
Hello Karen :)OH that is a great question! I am not sure I can tell you what THE Secret is, but I can tell you what has worked for me. Firstly, I think it’s very important to Believe in what you are writing/offering. Believe in it’s integrity. That can carry you a long way to building the bridge that helps you traverse the chasms of doubt, criticism, etc. The support of family/friends/other authors and readers also help to span those gaps when we wonder if we are doing the right thing. Do not allow the Light that Shines from within to be engulfed by the Darkness raging all around. I often tell myself, the more opposition I come up against, the more powerful my offering must be and that helps to Inspire me.Trust in yourself and your writing. I guess thats the Best advice I can give. I hope it helps!Thanks so very much for stopping in :)Blessings~
What has been your secret to winning those numerous awards?
Hi RamirezErica :)Firstly, I’d have to say, Blessings! I’ve been Blessed with a story that seems to speak to people. It touches on relevant issues in a way that carries readers away into another place/time, and I suppose that is appealing. Secondly, I did enter the New Apple Book Awards ‘contest’ in 2016, so submitting your work is also important. If you feel you have something award-worthy, trust in it. Trust in yourself and be Bold! And Finally, I guess I have to say that the old adage is true “If at first you don’t succeed……”. Keep Trying, Keep submitting your work. Dont Give Up. Thanks so much for stopping by and chatting. I do hope this may help to inspire you :)Many Blessings~
You are such a creative soul, intrigued by mysteries. Are you also a hopeless romantic?
CYNTHIA MORGAN
Hi Kelly 🙂 Yes, I absolutely am, though I like to say, I am a Hopeful romantic! I do believe being a romantic at heart aids in writing/creativity and I think you may agree that most ‘artists’ are also romantics. Whether you dream of a utopian socieity, finding your Soul Mate, or the possibility of life in another realm of existence, being a romantic gives you the ability to look beyond reality and dream of what may be better. Ultimately, that is what generates creativity.What do you dream about? Do you use it in your own writing? Thanks ever so much for asking:) Many Blessings!
What is the secret to persevering challenges every writer has to hurdle?
I am not sure I can tell you what THE Secret is, but I can tell you what has worked for me. Firstly, I think it’s very important to Believe in what you are writing/offering. Believe in it’s integrity. That can carry you a long way to building the bridge that helps you traverse the chasms of doubt, criticism, etc. The support of family/friends/other authors and readers also help to span those gaps when we wonder if we are doing the right thing. Do not allow the Light that Shines from within to be engulfed by the Darkness raging all around. I often tell myself, the more opposition I come up against, the more powerful my offering must be and that helps to Inspire me.Trust in yourself and your writing. I guess thats the Best advice I can give. I hope it helps!Thanks so very much for stopping in :)Blessings~
What is the most effective technique for you to gain the spotlight in the social media world?
CYNTHIA MORGAN
Hi Sandra 🙂 For myself, I have found that by connecting with other writers/artists through genuine conversations and by offering spotlights/reviews/guest blogging on my own blog, I have found reciprocal offers easy to come by. You might call it networking; you may call it Karma, but I have found that others are far more liable to offer you an interivew or spotlight for your book if they already know and (hopefully!) like you 😉 The other, more obvious avenue (though usually less successful, by my counts) is asking. Peruse other blogs and websites, see what they offer and what they are looking for; and if it meshes with what you are seeking to share, reach out to them. Every new avenue helps to lay a foundation for you. Each opportunity, no matter how seemingly insignificant, widens the path; so don’t be shy. Believe in yourself and Be Bold.What have you found works best for you?Thanks ever so much for asking and visiting me today. Delighted to meet you and wish you all the best !
If I’d like to follow your footsteps, what golden nuggets of advice can you share with me?
CYNTHIA MORGAN
Hi Heenal 🙂 Im not sure if they are golden, but these are a few things that have worked for me. Most Importantly, Believe in yourself. Confidence shines through everything you do, just as doubt does. Project what you want. Speak your Successes. Live your Dream. Work Hard! Thats something not everyone wants to hear, but its so very true. I’ve put in countless hours that I will never be financially compensated for, but when you love what you do those hours don’t matter. All of these are probably ‘no brainers’, but they are vital to any measure of success. I suppose it should also be said that you shouldn’t expect to become the next J.K. Rowling. If monetary gain is at the heart of your desires, you may be disappointed, but if you truly love the written word and believe in what you are sharing through your gift, whatever measure of ‘success’ you achieve will be gratifying. Finally, I’ve heard it said that you should strive to do something every day to work towards your goals. A Journey of a thousand miles requires 10000 steps (probably more!) so be faithful to yourself and take them :)Does any of this make sense? Is there anything you’d like me to elaborate on more fully?Thanks so much for asking and I wish you the Best Success~
You must be a blithe spirit, easy to be cheered with simple things. How do you maintain such a disposition?
Hello Rhoda 🙂 Yes, Yes I am, although I’ve never heard that specific phrase before. A Blithe Spirit. I like it…and perhaps that speaks volumes about me. I do enjoy the simple things. I love Harmony, Peacefulness, Laughter, Love. It’s certainly not easy to maintain such a perspective in a world filled with darkness and calamity, and I’ve surely had my own low moments; but I believe the best way to hold onto the Light is the seek the Light. Fill your Spirit with what you want to Be, what you want to Project into the world, and what you want to Achieve. If you seek Joy, you will probably Laugh. If you follow after violence, you will probably end up angry and hateful. For myself, I tend to read/watch things that uplift or feed the soul. It might be something as simple as a Nature program or the London Symphony Orchestra playing Vivaldi. I listen to beautiful music that Inspires. I surround myself with Positivity and do not involve myself with destructiveness. Its actually rather surprising how one Small Act of Kindness can feed your soul! Just smiling can be its own inducement. What about you Rhoda? What cheers and Inspires YOU?Thanks ever so much for asking. Many Sweet and Blitheful Blessings 🙂
How did you attain overnight success?
Hi Elena 🙂 It’s taken me four years (and counting!) to attain the limited measure of ‘overnight’ success I currently enjoy. Many Many hours of ‘unpaid’ and unapplauded work, as well as a great deal of Self Motivation has gone into this and I’d be lying if I said it’s been easy. Every day I look for a new opportunity, and I try to make a concerted effort to give something back each day (or at least each week lol) as well. Success after all, is a relationship, just like anything else. Its the offspring of your relationships with readers, other writers, and even those who decide they don’t like what you are doing/offering. I guess, Id also say that being prepared for the blockages that may appear in the road and accepting that it isn’t an easy journey are keys to making that journey prosperous, but its also important to define what form of prosperity you are seeking? It’s taken me a lot of years of dreaming to realize that I am truly happy NOT being the next J.K. Rowling. So what measure of success are you looking for? What will make YOU truly happy?Thank you so much for chatting. Many Blessings~
Are you open to sharing your expertise and tips to budding authors or rising stars?
Hi Marsha. Yes, always. Success is no secret and the best piece of advice I can, and usually, give is Work Hard and Believe. I have written blog posts about ‘success’; I’ve talked about what I’ve done and am doing in interviews and in private conversations and am Blessed to continue to find friends who want to share their own experience and ideas. Its an ever-changing ‘model’, success, and Im also open to what others have to say. What are you doing that is working? What’s not working? And is there anything specific you’d like to know that I might share? Thanks so much for asking 🙂 I wish you all the very best~
How does one get over a writer’s block?
CYNTHIA MORGAN
Hi Geekeeme :)Writers Block, in my experience, is just your mind’s way of asking you to rest. Just like the body, your creative processes require rest and refueling. Very often, I take time away from writing and allow the silence full reign. Do other things that you truly enjoy. Listen to Music, Read, go for long walks, whatever you find Inspiring, because during the quiet interlude, you may hear the whisperings of The Muse, leading you in a new direction perhaps. The Words will return. It may take longer than you want, but try not to fill the void with frustration or forced writing. Give yourself time away and allow your creativity time to renew itself. Hope this helps 🙂
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You can Discover more about Dark Fey on its Official Website: https://allthingsdarkfey.wixsite.com/feyandmusings
Visit Morgan on some of her other social media sites:
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/MorganBC728
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/booknvolume
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/cynthey728/dark-fey/
GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14174277.Cynthia_A_Morgan
Creativia Author Page : http://www.creativia.org/fey-folk-and-emeraldine-fens-fantasy-author-cynthia-a-morgan.html
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~Morgan~