Tag Archives: Author Interviews

Kings of Muraine – #BookReview #Spotlight with #Author J.R. Vaineo

10 Monday Aug 2020

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Book Description

My Review

Everything he thought he was, he wasn’t. Everything he thought he understood he had to re-discover to actually learn the truth. Tyler, a 13-year-old who has lost much very early in life stumbles into a shocking revelation that makes such a loss seem inconsequential at best.
Author J R Vaineo has crafted a unique, imaginative and truly fascinating realm of fantasy and magic where things are not as they seem. Readers are taken on an exciting adventure, following Tyler and his companion, Gemma, who seek to unravel a mystery that will ultimately change his life forever.
Cryptic clues and paradoxical numbers confuse and, often, confound both the characters as well as this reader, as the plot thickens. Characters pour out of the pages in droves, and like the many people we run into in our daily lives, some are important and some are just there to fill the void. I might have liked a glossary to help keep the multitude sorted, but having read Charles Dicken’s Bleak House (where there are more characters then you know what to do with) the imaginative array was not overwhelming. They added to the complexity of the tale and gave a true-to-life feel to the story.
Kings of Muraine is the first book in The Journals of Ravier and end with a perplexingly pleasing puzzle that points readers to part two, Hunt the Dragon Within. Thrilling and bewildering at the same time, this is a tale readers will find as difficult to put down as it is to unravel. Recommended for readers who love to not see what’s coming next!
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Behind the Story with J.R. Vaineo

Let me tell you a little about the beginnings of creating this story. I’m thirty years old now. But the idea for The Journals of Ravier series started back when I was fifteen. It was in the Fall, the first week of school. Oh yeah! I almost forgot to mention I was homeschooled K – 12th grade. Though not an ideal way to grow up, as I spent a lot of time alone, I survived. A lot of things happened, prior to school starting that year. I was never the same. This story helped me to stay sane, during a time in my life when I was lost and lonely; hurting so, so bad inside. I needed an escape. And I got it through writing that first horrible, ugly draft in a spiral-bound notebook. It’s true what the battle-scarred authors say. First drafts are never pretty. The original story began with something like this: ‘What if horses had wings, and could fly? A boy once found this horse, and he named her Angel. He found her in the woods by his home. A boy named, Tyler Craven. This is their story.’ Not a good beginning, I’ll admit. But it was a beginning.

In 2005, around the time Hurricanes Katrina then Rita hit, is when I made the start. It was such a sad year. Yet a good year. Lovely Texans opening their hearts to their Louisiana neighbors . . . that was a beautiful thing. Recently home from a lengthy visit to Texas, my heart was bursting with so many emotions. Through it, I found a love for writing. And here I am, fifteen years later. My third book will be out, at the end of this year or sometime at the start of 2021.

In 2013, I changed the focus of the story. I made it better. Closer to what it is now. Caucasian Tyler Craven became Tyler Malik Ravier—half Caucasian, half Iraqi. Angel was renamed to Awngelic and then finalized as Awngeleik, similar in sound to the name of Angelique. I won’t even mention what Gemma Galloway’s name used to be. I will say this, however. Tadashi’s name was Ted! Amira was Gloria. All the characters were Caucasian. But I changed that, in 2013. Started thinking of new things. New names. New storylines. Then I wrote a rough draft, in 2015. That draft became the foundation for the first three books in Tyler Ravier’s series.

I’ve spent countless hours dreaming of the landscape of Muraine, tweaking it as needed . . . I wanted something unique. See, I grew up in a place with few trees around. Southwestern Wyoming. Always took twice as long for trees to grow to a “normal” size. It was a place at risk of droughts, well, quite a lot. Very dry. Unbelievably windy. Lots of snow, in the winter (usually). As you can imagine, I wanted a place vastly different to escape to. A place with lots of trees. Hence, Paragon was born. A model of excellence. The ideal sort of place I’d love to escape to. I later realized it needed a foreign name. Therefore, Pawv’Ragaen it became. I think that was in 2014.

Writing the books in this series has been a wild ride. I never thought I’d be an author. Though I’m self-published, I’m proud of it. Proud of the work I’ve put it. My writing isn’t perfect, but it is heartfelt. I’m honored to be the author, who’s steering Tyler’s story. Being a writer is so many things, really. I hope the product of my imagination wins you over. And know that I’m just warming up. I can feel it. Tyler demands that more be said than what the three books contain. And who am I to stand in the way of an amazing story being told through his eyes? Truly, there are days I simply feel like the characters are writing the story. That I’m their voice. Lol! I feel what they feel. I laugh with them, cry with them, cheer for them. As they grow, I grow. Not the other way around. Being a writer has changed who I am, as a person. I’m better, kinder, stronger. I actually like who I am. I didn’t, before. I simply existed. But that’s not living.

In parting, I must tell you . . . if you want a dream badly enough, chase it. Don’t give up. Just know that it takes time. Persevere.

Bio

J.R. Vaineo is a self-published indie author, residing in Salt Lake City, UT. In 2018, she published her first book: Kings of Muraine. When she’s not writing, she and her husband, Jessie, have many adventures together. Mostly in cooking, hiking, photography, analytical talks, and fawning over their two adorable fur-babies.

While J.R. Vaineo writes mostly fantasy fiction—combining elements of epic, portal, paranormal, and dark fantasy—she enjoys reading all genres; except, perhaps, for horror stories. After finishing a creative writing program, through the Institute of Children’s Literature, she continued to improve her craft of writing. In 2013, she graduated with her AA degree in psychology. During that time, she expanded on many things, especially focusing on what would prove invaluable for fleshing out characters and plot twists. What started out as a writing prompt, in 2005, has now become a nine book series she is currently working on: The Journals of Ravier. Sometimes, she is quite jealous of the characters’ abilities, found within her own writing. If that is a sign of anything, it is this: Obsession.

All the best,

Julie

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Find Julie on:

Facebook

Twitter

Goodreads

Instagram

JR Vaineo Author website

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Where to Purchase

Amazon:

Barnes & Noble:

Books2Read / Other

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Thank you so much to Julie for taking time out of her busy schedule to share her story with BnV and Word Mongery and Musings 🙂

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~Morgan~

Word Mongery and Musings – #BookReviewBlog Launch

10 Friday Jul 2020

Posted by in About Me (since you Insist)

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I’d like to introduce you to the newest member of my (Blogging) family….Word Mongery and Musings…a new blog focusing solely on Books, Reviews, Author Interviews…Reverse Views….Editorials about Books…Characters, Plots, Favorite Scenes and schemes….ok, you get the idea, right?

Book blogs, review rendezvous, spotlight sprees, hype headquarters, and chutzpah hullabaloos.  What do they all have in common?

Writers! Word mongers and musers. Oh, and the essential other half of the equation: Readers!

Creation is a two-fold phenomenon. A Yin and Yang, action-reaction, cause and effect, inception and conclusion relationship. Writers create worlds, characters, and circumstances with which readers can connect. Readers search for writers whose creations hold a resonance that seems to speak directly to them. It’s almost a symbiotic relationship where one cannot exist without the other. Or at least, one cannot truly be fulfilled without the other.

The reader reads what the writer writes, then writes about what they’ve read so other readers may also read what was written. That’s where the aforementioned book blogs, review rendezvous, spotlight sprees, hype headquarters and chutzpah hullabaloos come into play. Because as sure as the reader will read what the writer wrote, there are other writers who will write about what was written so readers know what to read.

Are you dizzy yet? So am I.

This is the bewildering boondocks into which each writer wanders when they put the proverbial pen to paper. This is the maelstrom that spins around us in a confusing concoction of words, phrases, jargon, lexical madness and magic that leaves all of us more than a little muddled.

This is the realm into which Word Mongery and Musings will wander, leaving a trail for others to follow. A trail of writings for readers and readers for writers.

Please stop by and say Hi 🙂   OH and don’t worry, there’s plenty of poetry in this brain to keep BnV readers happy 🙂

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~Morgan~

A Reverse ‘View – #Book #Interviews Backwards

01 Wednesday Jul 2020

Posted by in Authors Books Reviews & Interviews

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Book reviews are a marvelous thing.  For an author, each one is the Holy Grail; an invaluable treasure we are ever searching to acquire.  Yet, I have found very often after reading a review that I want to know more.  Whether the review is for one of my own books or a tale I want to learn more about, I am always left wondering what else the reader thought.

Limited in most cases to under 300 words, reviewers typically choose and use their lexicon wisely, but how do you adequately summarize a daring adventure, sweeping romance, or beguiling mystery of over 100K words with so few?

Being a creative problem solver, I have thought about this repeatedly, wondering how to free the reviewer of the constraints of social media attention spans and give them the opportunity to pontificate pleasingly and profusely.

Here enters the Reverse ‘View.  Note the apostrophe, please.  It’s placement is intentional. Not only does this title indicate what you are about to see or read is not what you might anticipate, but it denotes, in this case, the omission of the letters INTER.

How often have you read an author interview? Come on now, be honest; how often have you actually read the entire thing?  I confess, I’m as guilty as most, but what if I interviewed YOU?  We do it all the time.  We ask each other what we thought about the movie we saw over the weekend, how the restaurant we went to compared to others; we even ask each other about books we’ve read.

We interview each other.  So why not interview READERS about the books they’ve read?  This is what you want to know…not what the author wants to tell you to make you buy it, but what the reader thought.  Was it good or an epic failure?  Did you read it all in one weekend because you couldn’t put it down? Why? What made it so good?

Now, imagine if YOU could read the reader’s interview and then ask them whatever it is YOU want to know.  It a nifty notion, not? (Ok, I love alliterations, but ‘lest I digress..) Enter the Reverse ‘View.  An interview of a reader.  An interactive interview! Interested? (sorry, it was right there!)

Before I lose you…In the coming weeks (and months, depending on how much YOU like them) I will be posting a series of Reverse ‘Views.  Interviewing readers about books you may or may not have ever heard of… and giving YOU the opportunity to ask them questions too (in the comments, of course!)

I hope you will enjoy them.  I hope you will join them.  And, of course, ultimately, I hope you will read them 🙂

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~Morgan~

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Beautiful photograph found on Pinterest.  Credit Gratefully Acknowledged to the Original Photographer and Artist.  Thank You.

Demons, Chaos, Shadows and Light -The #Creative Dynamics of #Fantasy #Author #D.M.Cain

04 Thursday Jun 2020

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I’d like to introduce D.M. Cain to you.  A marvelously skilled author who has a new series – A Chronicle of Chaos (The Light and Shadow Chronicles)

D.M. Cain is a dystopian and fantasy author working for Next Chapter Publishing. The Light and Shadow Chronicles series features a range of books which can be read in any order. The series installments to date include A Chronicle of Chaos, The Shield of Soren, Genesis of Light and Origin of Shadow.

Cain has released one stand-alone novel: The Phoenix Project, a psychological thriller set in a dystopian future. The Phoenix Project was the winner of the 2016 Kindle Book Review Sci-Fi novel Award.

Cain lives in Leicestershire, UK with her partner and two young children, and spends her time reading, writing, reviewing, and indulging in geek culture (Marvel, Star Wars, Harry Potter, Final Fantasy).

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Bound by fate. Severed by blood.

In a realm ravaged by war, The Brotherhood of Shadow and The Children of Light will stop at nothing to destroy each other.

The warrior known as Chaos fights in the name of honor and glory. Arrogant and headstrong, he considers himself the strongest in the land, until fate puts him at the mercy of the demon Anathema.

The two strike up an intense rivalry, but their obsession to defeat one another only leads them closer together.

When the forces of Light and Darkness collide, where will their loyalties lie?

Praise:

★★★★★ – “Outstanding. Strongly recommended to anyone who likes young adult fantasy.”

★★★★★ – “A unique and different approach to the old themes of angels and demons.”

★★★★★ – “Fantasy world, demons, angels, complex moral dilemmas. I’m sold.”

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HI DM  🙂  What do you love most about writing?

I love the sense of discovery and adventure that comes with writing fantasy. Although I plan my work and have an idea where I want scenes to go, there is still a sense of the plot unfolding before me. Sometimes, after a long and difficult day all I want to do is lose myself in my fantasy world.

I know precisely what you mean!  So tell us, what inspired you to write your book?

When I was around ten years old, my friend and I created a whole imaginary world and made up hundreds of stories that existed in those settings. The books I write now are inspired by those stories. As I got older, it became less a passing interest and more of a calling – I couldn’t allow the stories to remain locked in my head forever.

I , for one, am so glad you didn’t!  For me, the story just seems to happen and I just type it out  Do your characters dictate what or how your write in any way?

In order to write believable and likeable characters, an author needs to really get into their heads, and know them inside and out. By doing so, it almost gives the characters life, and with time they start acting on their own! Sometimes I can be deep into a scene and something can happen that I had never intended. For example, in my current novel, a character grabs a flaming torch off the wall and sets fire to a room (which is very much in his character!) and I had no idea that was going to happen when I sat down to write! Characters have minds of their own and sometimes all I can do is to go along with the flow.

Thats often difficult for a non-writer to understand, but characters really do become alive while you’re writing the story.  And so often, the story takes turns you might not expect.  Are you a painstaking plotter or are you a discovery writer?

I have always been somewhere in the middle. I tend to plan my overarching plot points and get to know my characters really well. But it takes a while to get into the tone of a book and sometimes my original plans have to change because they don’t work anymore. I think, for me, the most important thing is to be adaptable and to be willing to change the plot if the story needs it.

What’s your number one tip for an aspiring author?

Get into the online writing community. There are so many fantastic writing groups on Facebook and Twitter. The writing community is fantastically helpful, inspirational and supportive. I have met editors, illustrators, promoters, publishers and many more through my online presence and it has given me a lot of knowledge about the industry. Plus, I have made lots of amazing friends who are always there to motivate and push me, read my work and give tips, or just have a brainstorming session with.

Are there any characters you’ve created that you would like to meet and why?

Hmm.. tricky. Raven from The Phoenix Project is moody and intense, Chaos from A Chronicle of Chaos is arrogant, Callista is too intimidating. I really like Dana and Soren from A Chronicle of Chaos – they’re both friendly and cool.

I liked Raven as well.  His intensity was what drew me into the story.  Do you get drawn into stories too?  If you could live in a book, which one would it be – why?

Again, a tricky question, as all the books I like are in dystopian, war-filled, cataclysmic or apocalyptic nightmares! I wouldn’t mind living in the world of The Magic Faraway Tree – I loved it so much as a child.

Writing really does become our lives, even if we still have day-jobs.  Its fabulous when someone recognizes all your hard work with a stellar review, but What about bad ones? How do you deal with those?

I used to take the criticism badly and get upset for days. But unfortunately, bad reviews are just part of being a writer. Now, I don’t dwell on them but I make sure to read them carefully. They can be a valuable source of advice – if you know what a reader doesn’t like, you might be able to avoid it in future.

Speaking of the future….What’s exciting you about your next project?

My current project is a new novel in my fantasy series, The Light and Shadow Chronicles. The Sins of Silas is so much fun because it is from the POV of the opposing army and I haven’t written anything from them before. It’s great fun to have the characters inverted – the bad guys are now the good guys and vice versa. Plus, Silas Wilder himself is a mischievous trickster and a hedonistic bad boy, so he’s all kinds of fun!

Before you go, can you tell us something about you that we don’t know yet…like…Do you have a Mantra  or a Quote you try to live by?

‘Every book is written one word at a time’ – I like to remind myself of this. It doesn’t matter how long it takes to write the words. Even the classics were only written one word at a time.

You can D.M Cain here:

Amazon Author Page

D.M Cain’s Website

Publisher’s Author Page

A Chronicle of Chaos Book link  

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I’d like to thank D.M Cain for sharing her valuable time and talent with BnV.  I hope you enjoyed learning more about her amazing work and will take a few minutes to explore her website….its amazing!

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~Morgan~

Whats Half-a-Million? – #Live #Author #Interviews

02 Tuesday Jun 2020

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I recently had the pleasure of experiencing a LIVE Radio Interview.  Chat and Spin Radio, a UK Based Internet Radio Broadcaster invited me to share a little bit about myself, my books, and why I wrote them.

Did I mention it was LIVE?

Yes, Live!

Me! 🙂

Oh boy, was I nervous…I was pacing around the place two hours ahead of time.  Why?, well, I’ve never spoken in front of upwards of a half a million listeners before! :O

Yes, half a million!

Ok, it was only 5 minutes, but still, it was the most nerve-wracking and exciting 5 minutes of my life…..

PHEW!   It was a joy, it was terrifying, it was amazing!

And yes, that’s a lot of exclamation points, but I really do mean all of them.

Unfortunately, WordPress doesn’t allow me to upload the nifty video I created (If I do say so myself) to share the interview.

So I have only one option, but to share the link to the video (which is on Facebook)

I hope you will pop by and give it a look/listen.

Chat and Spin Radio Live Interview

And if I haven’t mentioned it in a while….THANK YOU!  Because without you, this would all be fairly pointless, now wouldn’t it?

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~Morgan~

Of #Archangels, #Hypnotherapy and #Psychopaths – #Author Leo Kane!

27 Wednesday May 2020

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My friend and fellow author Vanda…oops Leo Kane…has stopped by to share a little about herself, her books, characters, and upcoming projects.  Personally, I want to try out the hypnotism!  No really, read on and find out what Im blathering about 🙂

Hey there Friend…tell us a wee bit about yourself 🙂

Born and raised in the Steel City of Sheffield, England; I spent a lot of my life day dreaming and can’t seem to outgrow the habit. Despite this I gave managed to raise a family of three wonderful girls, a tolerant husband and crazy husky who inveigles his way into my books posing as the hero, Furface. I somehow acquired a career in human resource management and the employment law courts and a Master of Science degree along the way.

I am also a qualified clinical hypnotherapist with a fascination for the human condition. When I am not sending people into a trance and curing their phobias I happily plot my books whilst staring out of windows.

Oh and by the way, I see dead people some of whom are kind enough to chat with me.   (This is entirely worthy of another post, you know!)

 

Do your characters dictate what you write?

Jake, the main protagonist of the Heavensgate Series won’t allow me a moment’s peace until I get his story down exactly as he wants it told. I outline the plot and he derails it. I choose his enemy and he attacks a stranger. I pick him a lover and he runs off with another. The man is a nightmare to write about. He just said I write for him not about him. See what I mean?  (I love this character, Leo!!)

Do you have a Favourite and least favourite character?

The character I love to hate in Book 1 Heavensgate, Hope is Mary Barrington wife of a Darth Vader impersonator and the most dangerous foster parent ever. Despite her very obvious defects she’s a ballsy woman and nobody’s fool. Unfortunately she loves Jake rather too much and, even without her disgusting predilections, she would scare the life out of me.

My least favourite is Joy’s mother, the eternal virgin you can meet in Book 2, Heavensgate, Joy. The woman has no redeeming qualities whatsoever; it’s a kindness to call her a soul sucking wretch. She is based on someone very close to me and for that reason I sympathise with and forgive her.

I would love to meet the Archangel Gabriel, Gabi to his friends, who along with the Angel of Redemption plays a starring role in the series. Gabi and I could have a girly day out having our hair and nails done and shopping for clothes. At the end of a busy afternoon we would relax, gossiping over Earl Grey and cake while sneaking high heels off our aching feet and sighing with pleasure.

Got any fun Tips?

I am better at baking tips if you need any. However, if I must offer some advice to any aspiring author I suggest you read widely, write every day and edit with a ruthlessness that makes you cry, but ultimately makes you proud of your art.

What upcoming projects are you excited about? 

Ooh where do I start?

I am thrilled that Book 3, Heavensgate, Faith will be published very soon. Jake’s story takes a shocking turn when he meets Faith and Mercy – I think this is the first time I’ve surprised him with a plot twist he couldn’t wriggle out of. However, he says that my bad behaviour suggests I may have to write at least one more book for the annoying man.

I am very excited to encourage my talented granddaughter, Keira, as she launches her web-based clothing designs. She also sells bespoke art some of which I am honoured to say are my photographs reproduced on canvas. The clothes and the prints are limited editions, so why not pop in for a peek at: (This sounds awesome…Im off to check it out..OH< wait, we have an interview to finish!)

www.keke-kreation.teemill.com  

Tell us about Book 1 in the Heavensgate series

When Jacob was a child a mysterious girl comforted him at the funeral of the family he accidentally killed.

Years later and grieving for his lost wife and son, Jacob is at Heavensgate. He strongly believes that the dead should stay dead, but he sees things other people don’t see.

Even worse Jacob is besieged by his alter ego the taunting, foul- mouthed, sex-crazed, dangerous, Jake, a personality with a twisted sense of fun and no conscience.

Jacob battles for his sanity and soul surrounded by supernatural enemies and allies as he struggles to free the Keeper of the Forbidden Book and ignore the menacing pink Cadillac that drives by his lakeside lodge every night.

Wherever Jacob goes people die. The cops are moving in on him when a terrifying and seductive presence arrives on the frozen lake.

Now Jacob will discover that even hope has a dark side.

http://mybook.to/Heavensgatehope

Where can we find you?

http://hgleokane.wix.com/heavensgate

http://www.facebook.com/Leokaneheavensgate

http://twitter.com@h-gleokane

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Its always a delight to spend time with Vanda….LEO …I mean Leo!…. and Im so happy she stopped by to share a little about her books, her characters and her cool new project with her granddaughter. …..tho I was kinda hoping Jake would stop in too….maybe next time 😉

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~Morgan~

 

 

 

 

A Scope of #Mystery – #CharacterInterviews with a Twist

20 Wednesday May 2020

Posted by in Authors Books Reviews & Interviews

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Debbie De Louise is a reference librarian at a public library. She’s the author of seven novels including the four books of her Cobble Cove cozy mystery series. Her latest release, Sea Scope, is a psychological mystery. She lives on Long Island with her husband, daughter, and three cats.  Today Debbie has stopped by with a character from her book Sea Scope to share a few insights into the book and the characters within.

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Debbie: Hi, Julie. Welcome to Cynthia Morgan’s blog. Please tell the readers a little about yourself and your role in my book, Sea Scope.

Julie: My pleasure, Debbie. As you know, I’m not the main character of the book. That honor belongs to my niece Sarah Collins. However, I play a large role in the story. After all, most of the action takes place at my home, Sea Scope, that is also an inn. I’m a portrait artist as well as an innkeeper. That’s where Sarah gets her artistic talent from, although she illustrates children’s books instead of penning portraits.

Debbie: That’s very interesting, but isn’t it also true that you’ve had many lovers but have never married?

Julie: That’s correct. My longest relationship was with Bart Donovan. He fancied I was in love with him. I think he was on the verge of proposing when I broke it off.

Debbie: And why exactly was that? Did it have anything to do with Sheriff Donald Marshall?

Julie: You might say that. Of all the men I’ve known, Donald was the one who came closest to winning my heart. In fact, he still may, as we’ve been reunited. I met him during the investigation into the murder at my inn twenty years ago.

Debbie: How awful! Who was murdered and how?

Julie: I can’t talk too much about it because I know your readers don’t like spoilers, but the victim was a young college student, Michael Gamboski, who was staying at the inn that summer. Glen and Sarah found his body by the nearby lighthouse. His death was termed suicide, but, after my niece returned to Sea Scope, strange things started happening that made us consider his death was murder.

Debbie: Please tell us about these strange happenings.

Julie: We began receiving messages written in crayon from my dead nephew, Sarah’s brother, Glen Brewster. Glen died two years ago in a motorcycle accident in California where he was a practicing psychologist. When Glen lived at the inn as a child, he liked to play a game that involved crayon clues.

Debbie: Boy, this sounds like an interesting story if I must say so myself. What about the rest of the family and those who lived at Sea Scope when Michael died?

Julie: I wish I could say nice things about the others, but I didn’t get along with everyone. Glen’s father, Martin, killed himself a year after they moved away from Sea Scope. I never liked Sarah’s mother, Jennifer, much. She drank a lot when she was at Sea Scope and hasn’t stopped. The people I liked best were Wanda and Wendy Wilson. Wanda was like a daughter to me more than a maid. Her daughter Wendy, was friends with Sarah and Glen. The only problem with Wanda was that she was flirtatious. She had Wendy out of wedlock. Russ Donovan, Bart’s son, also spent time at the inn. I think Sarah was attracted to him, but she married someone else after her family moved to New York from South Carolina.

What disturbs me about Derek is that he refuses medical treatment to help Sarah conceive when she desperately wants a baby.

Debbie: What a cast of characters. Is there anyone else in the book we should know about?

Julie: There is one other character. Her name is Carolyn Grant. She’s a children’s book writer and Sarah’s friend. She accompanies her to Sea Scope because Derek is teaching summer classes and can’t join Sarah.

Debbie: Would you have an excerpt to the book that you would like to share?

Julie: Yes. Here’s one that features me and my cat, Al.

As Al circled her legs emitting short cries that signaled his hunger, Julie checked for mail. There was one letter inside the box. It wasn’t in an envelope and bore no stamp. Someone had dropped it off. She figured it was an advertisement, but when she unfolded the paper, she saw that it was a note written in childish handwriting. Each letter had been marked with a different crayon.

“Do you really think you should reopen the inn? How many more deaths do you want on your head?”

Your nephew, Glen

She gasped. Al sensed her dismay and stopped crying, his body alert to danger; the fur on his back starting to rise.

Glen was dead, buried in the family cemetery nearly two years ago.

Debbie: Thank you so much for the great interview, Julie.

You can connect with Debbie at:

Facebook: 

Twitter

Website/Newsletter sign up 

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Do you have an amazing character from your book you’d love to share with a broader audience?  Perhaps two characters interacting with each other or one interviewing the other.  Drop me a line via my contact info to learn more about authoring a guest post all about them! 🙂

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~Morgan~

Meet the very talented award winning Author Cynthia A. Morgan

25 Tuesday Jun 2019

Posted by in About Me (since you Insist)

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I am so honored to have been featured on Guy Lozier’s blog and magazine. Please stop by and enjoy 😊

Guy Lozier

“The Power of Positivity is Positively Powerful!” —Cynthia A. Morgain

Cynthia A. Morgan is an award-winning author; columnist for the national magazine Fresh Life Style, and a member of the Poetry Society of America and Artists for Peace. Creator of the mythical realm of Jyndari and author of the epic fantasy Dark Fey Trilogy, Morgan’s powerful story relates how the power of hope, acceptance and forgiveness can change the world, when positive action is taken to create change.  The only way to achieve peace is to become peace.

Morgan is also the author of the popular blog Booknvolume where over 18K followers can explore Morgan’s own brand of poetry and English Sonnets, musings about life, personal recipes, photography, book reviews and more.

Upcoming projects include a fictional drama in Regency Period England; a foray into the lives of a young housemaid and an immortal archangel in French post-Armageddon earth…

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Karina Bartow- An #Author who Challenges her #Challenges!

11 Saturday May 2019

Posted by in Authors Books Reviews & Interviews

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I would love for you to meeet Karina Bartow who grew up and still lives in Northern Ohio.  Though born with Cerebral Palsy, she’s never allowed her disability to define her.  Rather, she’s used her experiences to breathe life into characters who have physical limitations, but like her, are determined not to let them stand in the way of the life they want.  Her debut novel, Husband in Hiding, came out in 2015 and was well-received by readers.  Her second, Forgetting My Way Back to You, was released in October 2018 by Vinspire Publishing and has been praised by reviewers.  She may only be able to type with one hand, but she writes with her whole heart and I hope you will enjoy learning more about her and her books as much as I did when she recently contacted me.

HI Karina 🙂  Thank you for taking a few moments to share your story with BnV 🙂  Lets dive right in, shall we?  Do you have a preferred POV that you write from and why?  When I started writing, I tried first person perspective, but I found it confining with so many elements to a plot. Now, I only write in third person so that I can show a broader scheme rather than one corner.

Do your characters dictate what or how your write in any way?   For sure! Even though I have a general idea of their personalities from the beginning, they take their own turns I don’t always expect. I just go with it!

LOL, I tend to let my characters tell their own story too! What type of book do you like to read and does this differ from the genre that you prefer to write?   I’ve always enjoyed love stories, so that’s what I started writing. After a few years, though, I was drawn to mysteries, and that’s my preferred genre in which to write. When given a choice of what to read, I still stick with love stories. Call me sappy!

Tell us a little more about your book?    At one point or another, everybody finds themselves wanting a second chance, whether it be missing the mark on an investment, failing to live up to a certain goal, or letting a true love slip away. It’s very seldom, however, that one receives the proverbial do-over.

Charlee Stoll and Hunter Jett become the modern-day exception. After a decade-long estrangement, the high school sweethearts reconnect when Hunter, fresh off a career in arena football, returns to his hometown. Their reunion catches both of them by surprise, and they quickly recapture the love they once shared. When Hunter begins to rethink his choices, though, tragedy strikes. During a heated confrontation, Charlee’s thrown off a horse and sent into a week-long coma.

When she awakens with no clue who he is, he seizes the chance to right his wrongs, but it proves more challenging than he expects. On top of romancing her, he must overcome her father’s displeasure, another ex-boyfriend vying for her love, and her own mission to regain her memory.  Through charm and deception, can he win back her love…before she discovers the truth?

Sounds Fantastic !  You can find Karina’s book here 

Thanks so much Karina for sharing your time and talent with BnV!  I wish you many Blessings and Success 🙂

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~Morgan~

 

Playing in the Rain- a #Sci-Fi, #Post-Apocalyptic, #Suspense #Page-Turner

13 Saturday Apr 2019

Posted by in Authors Books Reviews & Interviews

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Sandra J. Jackson is an award-winning Canadian author living in rural Ontario with her family. Her published novels include Promised Soul and Playing in the Rain – Book 1 of the Escape Series. The second book of the series is awaiting publication while Sandra works on editing the final book. She holds a professional membership with the Canadian Author Association and is a member of Writer’s Ink.

Playing in the Rain

When the effects of a hypnosis inducing drug fade, April slowly begins a conscious awakening. Memories of her past are unclear and she has no recollection of her identity or her whereabouts.

As the days slip by, April realizes there is more to life than existing when she is introduced to an occupant who does just that—her sister. The more she learns about her environment the more she wants to escape.

Will April remember her past, her sister? Will she have the courage to leave?  And if she does, where will she go?

Experience through April’s eyes her struggle to remember and her determination to escape in this sci-fi, post-apocalyptic, suspense story.

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Hi Sandra!  Its  great having you stop by for a quick chat.  Tell us about you.  What do you love most about Writing?

What I love most is that no matter what ideas I might have my characters are the ones who direct the story. They surprise me every time.

I love when they do that!  I like to tell their story, using 2nd person.  Do you have a preferred POV that you write from and why?

Both of my books are written in first person (though Promised Soul does have a couple of chapters written in third). I like the way first person draws readers into a story and makes them feel like they are a part of it.

First person is something I haven’t tried yet.  Maybe one day.  Makes me wonder, does it drive how your write….and Do your characters dictate what or how your write in any way?

Absolutely! I have a quote that I use on my business cards and a few other things. “Only my characters truly know what’s happening—I just hold the pen.”

I wrote that quote because this is how it is for me.

Oh thats so true…I never know where they will lead me. Im often just holding on for the ride!  Playing in the Rain sounds like a marvelous, page-turner!  Where can we find it?

Find it on Amazon

Discover More of Sandra’s Writing

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Thank you so much for visiting BnV, Sandra.  I am so happy to share your story…and your story!

Blessings and Success 🙂

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~Morgan~

The Origin Stone – #Fantasy with a #SciFi Twist

06 Saturday Apr 2019

Posted by in Authors Books Reviews & Interviews

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Emily Renzi thinks she’s going crazy. After her parents move to a quiet village, she senses that something is off about the house they’re living in. Dreams of strange creatures invade her sleep, and mysterious shapes appear in the garden. Confiding in her older brother, Ru, they research the house’s background and find that a scientist disappeared there during World War II. Afterwards, sightings of strange creatures were whispered around the village. Could the creatures in Emily’s dreams and the ones rumored about be the same? And if so, what do they want from her? As she struggles to piece together the truth from the fiction, she finds out that beasts aren’t always monsters – humans, however, are a different matter.

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Kathryn Rossati is an autistic author and poet who loves weaving tales of fantasy, sometimes with sci-fi or paranormal twists. Her stories tend to have themes of social acceptance and equality, without being preachy.   Kathryn has four middle grade books published under the name Kathryn Wells with Creativia, along with a debut poetry collection, and her latest book, The Origin Stone, which was recently published in March from Nuff Said Publishing.

Kathryn, what do you love most about Writing? Living a life/lives so very different to my own. It’s like being an actor, except without the CGI to be added after your scene’s been filmed. Every story has a new cast that I have to get to know, and the world can be close to my own or the complete opposite. Nothing is impossible, and exploring that is invigorating. True, there are times when trying to get the words down on paper is like pulling teeth, but the end result is worth it. I also find it incredibly therapeutic, as it eases my depression and provides me with a sense of achievement and self-worth.

Can you sum up your life story in ten words or less? Dungaree-loving Mother of Parrots obsessed with the fantastical.

Do you have a Mantra- a Quote you try to live by? Yep, as a woman on the autistic spectrum, I can have very strong interests. However, as being an author has always been my dream, my mantra is, ‘Just Write’. It refocuses me on what I truly find important so I can keep going (it’s also tattooed on my leg just in case I forget). Anyone can write, but being an author takes true commitment and passion.

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I love that!  Thank you so much Kathryn for taking a few moments of your time to share your story…and your story, with BnV 🙂

Find Kathryn on Twitter 

Find The Origin Stone on Amazon

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~Morgan~

God’s Hammer- A #HistoricalFiction #MustRead & the #Author who created it.

30 Saturday Mar 2019

Posted by in Authors Books Reviews & Interviews

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Eric Schumacher is an American historical novelist who currently resides in Santa Barbara, California, with his wife and two children. He was born and raised in Los Angeles and attended college at the University of San Diego.

At a very early age, Schumacher discovered his love for writing and medieval European history, as well as authors like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. Those discoveries continue to fuel his imagination and influence the stories he tells. His first novel, God’s Hammer, was published in 2005. He has since published two additional novels, Raven’s Feast and War King. All three tell the story of Hakon Haraldsson, the first Christian king of Viking Norway.

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His historical fiction novel God’s Hammer is a true must read!

History and legend combine in the gripping tale of Hakon Haraldsson, a Christian boy who once fought for the High Seat of a Viking realm.

It is 935 A.D. and the North is in turmoil. King Harald Fairhair has died, leaving the High Seat of the realm to his murderous son, Erik Bloodaxe. To solidify his claim, Erik ruthlessly disposes of all claimants to his throne, save one: his youngest brother Hakon.

Erik’s surviving enemies send a ship to Wessex, where the Christian King Athelstan is raising Hakon. Unable to avoid his fate, he returns to the Viking North to face his brother and claim his birthright, only to discover that victory will demand sacrifices beyond his wildest nightmares.

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Eric, What do you love most about Writing?

What I love most about writing is disappearing into my imagination. I will start writing and hours can pass in what feels like minutes. Nothing else I do has that same affect on me.

Do your characters dictate what or how your write in any way?

Absolutely. My characters often throw a monkey wrench into my writing. I’ll be in the midst of writing dialogue or an action scene and suddenly my characters will do something unexpected. I pursue that new angle or direction because it usually feels appropriate for that character. The challenge, though, is that it can take the story in a new direction that may veer too far from historical facts, so I’ve learned to be cautious. Still, it is always a nice surprise when my characters come alive like that.

What’s exciting you about your next project?

A few things have really got me jazzed. While I’m sticking with Viking historical fiction, I am venturing into a new story with all new historical and fictitious characters. Developing those characters has been a ton of fun. I am also experimenting with a different POV, which is daunting and exciting all at once. It’ll be a few more months, but I can’t wait to share the project with the world!

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For more information, visit Eric’s website

Find God’s Hammer on Amazon

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Thanks so much Eric for sharing your valuable time and talent with BooknVolume.  I wish you all the best success and happiness!

Are you an author interested in sharing your story?  Stop by my recent Author Interviews post to learn more.

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~Morgan~

Creative Content Quick! – #Author #Interviews #Revision 2.0

12 Tuesday Mar 2019

Posted by in Authors Books Reviews & Interviews

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I’ve done some research lately to learn more about SEO and how to maximize what Im writing to gain readership.  Ive learned that in today’s fast-paced world the reality is that long posts get bypassed.  Research indicates readers want to devour topics in 5 to 7-minutes and move on, so, as painful as that may be to those of us who can proliferate words at a rate that could rival Charles Dickens, it’s up to us to provide creative content, quick! We need to come up with catchy tag-lines, use keywords in repetitive groupings to increase search engine results; and use meta-data/descriptions to help those search engines guide readers to us. HUH?Yeah thats what I said.  Heres a great article if you really want to dig deeper and learn “What is SEO Content?”

I’m starting by redefining the author interviews I offer.  No longer the customary 20 questions and 1500 words, but 3 key points, a pic and a link!  Sound tough? You bet, because when it takes between 50K and 150K to tell our story, it can be brutal to try to sum it up in less than 500 words- I know; I’ve tried!  Nevertheless, this is what readers want, so this is what they’ll get!  If you’re interested in an Author Interview with SEO punch, or you want to share a Character Spotlight with pizazz, read on!

What these posts will need:

  • You’ll select THREE questions (from the list I will provide) to answer and, remember, ‘Brevity is the soul of wit!” Write your answers creatively. Your entire post needs to be 500 words or less.
  • Create a brief Bio. Think of this in terms of an introduction- how would you like to be introduced at an awards ceremony?
  • Write a book blurb for your book. Here’s an article that tells you just how “Most fiction book blurbs start with a situation (a), introduce a problem (b) and promise a twist (c). They usually end with a sentence that emphasizes the mood (d) of the story.” (What would your ad sound like if it were a movie trailer?)
  • Provide an author link (one social media link or your author page)
  • Provide your book link (ONE Please)
  • Select a pic that sells what you are promoting, hopefully your books covers or a marketing image you use.

What’s next?

  • Email your post back to me to booknvolume@gmail.com in a word.doc format only (thank you!)
  • Include your images as separate .jpgs please
  • Make sure your links work! (No oopsies please)
  • Interviews are published on my blog on weekends in the order they are received and I will email back the link to the post once I’ve scheduled it. ****Posts cannot be viewed until they go live***(sorry)
  • If you’ve got a specific date in mind that you would like to promote, such as the release of a new book, a signing tour or any other publicity event, please let me know and I will be happy to work on scheduling a specific date that will maximize exposure.
  • MOST Importantly of all- Have Fun. If you don’t enjoy reading your post, who will?

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I hope you will take me up on the offer 🙂  Thank you for allowing me to support you through my FREE Author Interviews and share your work with the world!

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~Morgan~

In The Lime Light – Richard Ankers – The Writings

04 Saturday Aug 2018

Posted by in Authors Books Reviews & Interviews

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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:

richard

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~

Save

Hidden Blessings

04 Monday Dec 2017

Posted by in About Me (since you Insist)

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I recently hosted an event where other writers had the opportunity to ask me questions about the journey from hobbyist writing to becoming an Indie Author; Published by a well-respected company, and/or landing Freelance writing opportunities; learning to navigate Social Media, networking with fellow writers, and creating a social presence or brand and more.  It was a delightful experience, but I was quickly made aware of just how Blessed I truly am, without realizing it!

Blessings are funny things, really.  We can look right past them and not even notice.  During the course of the day, answering all the questions I was Blessed to receive, I realized just how fortunate I truly am. So much has happened in so short a time (just 4 little years!) I’ve gone from not even knowing what a blog is, to having nearly 18K followers! I’ve gone from being an unknown author, to being a well-received, Indie; then published writer who has been Blessed with Awards, Excellent Reviews, and books that continue to sell (which is all a writer can truly hope for).  I’ve made more friends during this process than I truly realized and have developed a reputation for Kindness and Generosity without being thoroughly aware of it.

Thanks to Friends Like YOU, this journey has been an exciting and event-filled one, laden with Blessings! Thank You so much for being such a large part of my Blessings 🙂

You may be curious to know just what we chatted about, so I copied the Q&A from the Ask Me Anything Event for you to peruse.  If you have any of your own, please feel free to ask away 🙂

  
HUGH ASHTON

How would you go about selling one of your books as a movie idea?  

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~ 

 
CESSMEE

Do you give a “Preview” of your books to your family?  

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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 🙂 

ANA ALONSO

How can you say that you’ve reached the zenith of success?  

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~ 

NICZ

Where is the best place for you to settle and allow creativity to flood in? 

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~ 

CBREEZYX3

Which of your books gave you popularity and made you proud?  

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~  

FAYE

How easy is it for you to manipulate word to form harmony, which resulted in poems? 

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~ 

BROWNRYAN

Did socialization and community affiliation help you boost your book sales?  

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~  

KAREN RAMOS

How passionate are you about relationships? Does this help you create your fantastic books?

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~  

MBRADSHAW

What do you think is your most valuable asset as a writer?

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~  

ROBERT MILLER

Can you describe a scene from your dreamy evening?

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~ 

KAREN WARNER

What is the secret to persevering challenges every writer has to hurdle?

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~  

RAMIREZERICA

What has been your secret to winning those numerous awards?  

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~  

KELLYBRIGGS

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!  

EVANSLISA

What is the secret to persevering challenges every writer has to hurdle?

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~ 

SANDRA DOSDALL

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 !  

HEENAL PARMAR

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~ 

RHODA.ANSWERS

You must be a blithe spirit, easy to be cheered with simple things. How do you maintain such a disposition? 

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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 🙂 

ELENA RISTESKA

How did you attain overnight success? 

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~ 

MARSHA

Are you open to sharing your expertise and tips to budding authors or rising stars?  

CYNTHIA MORGAN 

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~   

GEEKEEME

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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~Morgan~