Author Maria Savva

Maria Savva is a writer from London, UK. She has published four novels and three collections of short stories. You can also find exclusive short stories by Maria in the BestsellerBound Anthologies. She is a resident author on BestsellerBound.com, a community of independent authors and their readers. An avid reader, Maria also writes reviews for Bookpleasures.com. Catch up with Maria's latest news on her official website: http://www.mariasavva.com

What is the current project you are working on?

I am always working on multiple projects. At the moment I am revising and editing my first novel, 'Coincidences' for a 10th Anniversary edition, which will include new scenes and twists in the story, although it will probably be an 11th Anniversary edition by the time I'm finished as I haven't had time to focus on it recently. My main project is editing my next novel, which is a crime fiction/psychological thriller. I am about half way through revising the first draft. I am sure there will be many more edits to come before I'm happy with it.

How do you set your book apart from other books in the genre?

I don't write genre fiction. My books are all a mixture of different genres; for example, my latest novel 'The Dream' is a paranormal/timeslip/mystery/romance novel containing drama and humour. My books reflect real life and real life can never be portrayed in just one genre.

What inspired you to become a writer?

I've always loved creative writing, from a very young age, and storytelling. I used to keep my younger sister up telling stories until late into the night. I was a bookworm as a child and always dreamt of writing my own book. When I read 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho, I was inspired to start writing my first novel. 'The Alchemist' is such a simple book but with a great message and is the type of book that has the power to change the way someone thinks about the world. It was definitely an inspiration to me.

What is the best thing about being a writer?

Without doubt it is the opportunity to network and work with other writers. Especially independent writers. There is such a vast community of indie authors out there and I've been lucky enough to meet so many talented and friendly authors online. The support and motivation I get from my author friends is fantastic. When I was growing up I could never have imagined that in the future I would be conversing with my favourite authors every day; it's a dream come true in a way.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Well, the worst part about being an independent writer, in my opinion, is having to edit my own work. It is such an arduous task. I love writing and even reviewing the first draft, which usually involves more writing, but after I have read my book over at least twenty times, I do find that I get frustrated with the editing process. A writer is a creative and wants to be constantly creating. When you are stuck reading the same story over and over (which is necessary if you are editing something correctly) it can get tiresome.

What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Think about why you want to be a writer. It's not an easy life. It requires sacrifice, and takes up a lot of your time. You will need to spend hours on your own each day. Most writers do not make a profit from their writing and most will be lucky to break even. You have to love writing. Make sure you have a day job to support you. Join writers' communities. Network with other writers. Be willing to help other writers. Do not be in a rush to publish your book. Make sure it is a polished product before you release it onto the market. Use a professional editing service, especially if you are new to writing. Ask other people to read your manuscript and give you constructive criticism before you publish. Ideally your proofreaders should be people who have some writing experience and who will give you their honest opinion. Do not expect that you will sell any books. You may sell none in the first few years, and even after that your sales might be minimal. I would be surprised if I heard from an independent author who is actually making a living from their writing. I have met many authors over the years and none of them are making a living from their writing. Write about things you have experienced, or that people you know have experienced. Research your writing well if you are writing about a topic you have no experience in -- remember the person who reads your book may have experience in that subject and if it is incorrect you are opening yourself up to criticism. Make sure you are always working on your next book. There are lots more things I could say... maybe I should write a book about this!

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

Including my short stories, the projects I have worked on run into the hundreds.

What do you like to do besides writing?

Read, listen to music, attend gigs, go to theatre and comedy shows, travel, watch reality shows on TV; I'm currently addicted to 'X Factor' and 'I'm a Celebrity Get me out of Here' (sad, I know), eating chocolate, hanging out on BestsellerBound.com.

Who is your favorite author?

I have several. At the moment I would say Darcia Helle. I met her through Bestsellerbound.com and absolutely love her books. I've become a fan of hers as well as a good friend over the past year or so. Another amazing writer I have had the pleasure to meet online is a new writer called James Everington, he writes fiction that he categorises as 'weird fiction'. I am a fan of his work. There are many other talented indie writers who have become my favourite authors over the past few years, far too many to mention! Of the more well known authors I would have to say Paulo Coelho.

What are some of your favorite books?

My latest book, 'The Dream'. I had to read it about 100 times while I was editing it, but I never got bored of it, and I have to say it's one of my favourite books ever. Sorry for the blatant plug, but I have to be honest -- I love the book. I also love 'Breathing into Stone' by Joel Blaine Kirkpatrick, 'Into The Light' and 'The Cutting Edge' by Darcia Helle, 'Metallic Dreams' by Mark Rice, 'The Other Room' and 'The Shelter' by James Everington, 'Oblivious' by Neil Schiller, 'Crooked Moon' by Lisette Brodey, there are so many others! Of more well known books, 'The Metamorphosis' by Franz Kafka, 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho, 'Dead Famous' by Ben Elton, 'Siddhartha' by Hermann Hesse.

How would you describe the writing "scene" where you live?

There isn't one where I live. In London as a whole, however, there does appear to be some interest in the arts and writing, although not as much as I would like to see. Independent writers are not really supported much, sadly.

How has social media changed the publishing industry?

Writers are there to chat with readers, we are accessible. In the past, writers were the invisible force behind a book, but now we are exposed. I don't really like that, but it's a necessary evil. I was attracted to writing because of the anonymity but now writers are expected to tell people everything about themselves. I'd prefer to stay anonymous if I had the choice, but if I want to sell any books I can't.

What is your thought process like when you're writing?

The writing flows and I am not aware of my thought process when I am writing. I do a lot of thinking about the writing before I sit down to start writing, and a bit of planning, so the stories are probably more or less formulated in my head by the time I start writing them.

You could have any super power. What would it be?

I'd like to be able to make myself invisible. Imagine the mischief you could get up to with that power!

Do you believe in life on other planets?

No. Although, having said that, there are some people I've met on Earth who I can only assume come from a different planet...

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

I think they're great. There are a lot of amazing books out there and it's wonderful that they can be adapted into movies so that more people can enjoy them. Some people don't have time to read, or just prefer watching something rather than reading it, so it helps to get stories out there to a wider audience. Most of the best films are those that were originally novels or short stories.

If you could have any first edition book. Which would it be and why?

I'm lucky to own many first edition books by indie writers. I'm assuming you're talking about classics? If so, then 'Alice in Wonderland' because it's such a timeless story that I've always loved, and the original illustrations are wonderful. Otherwise, 'The Happy Prince' by Oscar Wilde. That story has always been one of my favourites.

Filmmaker Dave Lehleitner

Dave Lehleitner is a filmmaker specializing in scifi. Originally from New Mexico, he is now in Los Angeles finishing his MFA in Film Production at Loyola Marymount University.

He has worked in the industry in various aspects, but mainly for TV movies and low budget commercials. He also works in production design and set construction, but ultimately, like everyone else, wants to direct.

Check out David's website at www.davelehleitner.com

What is the current project you are working on?

I'm working on my graduate thesis film, Reclamation, a post-apocalyptic scifi short.

How do you measure success?

At this point in my career, a pay check is success. Working, creating content, any content, and receiving enough money to cover rent is stunning success in my book. However, hopefully the day comes when my expectations grow and I really start to see my filmmaking as both business and art.

How do you handle rejection?

With plenty of alcohol and a long shower! But seriously, you just have to keep focused, and think about the short term. Just keep moving. Any movement is movement towards your goal, and you have to believe that with your heart in the right place and enough brutal, grinding, hard work it will pay off.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

No actually. I always liked doing little videos, and did a lot of theatre stuff growing up, I wanted to play in a rock band until I realized I couldn't play worth a damn.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

I was in college, a history major, and hated it. I did teched concerts and theatre shows, running sound on the side for “fun.”  Then they started making movies in my native New Mexico, and I thought if I liked live shows film sets might be fun. They were even better. I was hooked on being on set and making movies before I was on the idea of being “a filmmaker.”

What is the best thing about being one?

Making movies! For me its being on set, and the people you work with, big shows, small shows, its pretty much the best job out there.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Again, making movies. Its the greatest and somehow the worst thing at the same time. The sheer amount of stress and worry involved in a project is enough to make any sane person find a different career, but at the end of the day, its the only thing I could ever do.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

That depends on how you define “project”. If projects mean theres a script and a camera and its gets edited and ends up either online or some small screening, then I've probably crewed a hundred or more projects in some capacity. If a project has a real budget, and full crew, and gets distributed in some form that number shrinks to about 10.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Hmm. Its changes pretty often but Alfonso Cuaron is absolutely amazing. Christopher Nolan too.

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

I don't remember what sleep is, and I feel paranoid and am constantly looking for potential problems. But on the plus side I get to work with the most amazing people in the world and tell stories. I get to live in LA and literally follow my dreams, so its a fair trade.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?

I asked the same question of a prominent Producer I was working for, and he said, “At the beginning, its all about the work ethic. It's 90% work and 10% talent. As you move up it swings the other way.” It's all about being the person on set trying their best, day in, day out, all day long. And still having a vision, and the emotional energy to work on your own material. You gotta have both, the real, on set experience working in the industry and making money, but keep working on your personal stuff to, and hopefully someday the 2 meet.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I still love music and theatre. I wouldn't mind going back to being a live sound engineer- it's still stressful, but a lot less work.  Eventually I think teaching filmmaking would be great too.

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker?

Mostly in the Live Sound, tech theatre, broadcast world. I unknowingly took a lot of jobs that gave me skills that directly helped me become a filmmaker.

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?

American films- this year Drive really took me by surprise. I absolutely loved it, also I'm a huge fan of all Christopher Nolan's stuff.

Foreign films- I think the most interesting stuff in coming out of Sweden and Latin America. For whatever reason, I can't seem to get into all the cult Japanese and Korean films that seem to be the hot films for people my age, but movies like Let the Right One In, and The Secret In Their Eyes really blew me away.

TV- I've become a huge TV buff lately, I think my attention span is ever shrinking. I really like what the cable networks are doing with stuff like It's Always Sunny or Wilfred. My favorite show of all time is the incomparable Battlestar Galactica re-imaging, but I'm also into new shows like Hell on Wheels and Walking Dead.

How would you describe your film education?

Pretty intense. I went to NMSU, and changed majors to film halfway through, I was 1 of 7 first graduates of the then brand new film program, and felt like I had a strong technical education but needed something more creative. I made the decision to go to grad film school, and ended up at LMU- one of the top schools. So far its been great. Film school can be a blessing or a curse for some people, but for me it's absolutely given me the tools to be successful in the industry.

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

It's LA. So the film “scene” is pretty much everything. Everyone knows Los Angeles has been having it's fair share of problems keeping productions in the area, and the amount of people who do nothing but sit around and talk about being “in” the industry is super annoying, but it's still the hub. All decisions flow down from those offices in Burbank. It's ground zero and you can feel it.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

Honestly I don't see it playing a larger role than it does in any other industry. People use social media to connect. Filmmakers talks about films online. People into cars or politics or bead-making do the same. What will be really interesting is to see how the online world changes the format of content. Does a 22 minute TV show really make sense in a world where people are watching movies on ipads, pausing and taking breaks to do a million other things. Also, how do you monetize that? Can you sell ad revenue based of facebook posts or tweeter feeds? Social media is changing everything, but in terms of indie filmmaking, i.e. filmmaking without a pre-sale distribution deal, I honestly think it's making it harder on us. Everyone has a 7D. Everyone can edit on their laptop. More people making films just means there's more bad films wasting server space on youtube. It's easier than ever to make a film, but harder to get it noticed, so while social media can help generate buzz, I think people are pretty jaded by now to it. The simplest way is still the old way, just make a really good film.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

It's great. I used kickstarter for my thesis and raised $5000 dollars. I worry it's going the same way as social media, where now everyone is asking for money for a film, so I look at it as a way to ask people I know for donations. Rather than sending an awkward email to distant relatives or my dentist begging for money, I can send them to a slick video page and a trustworthy venue in which to donate money. Again, it's all how you use the technology but I think those sites, particularly kickstarter, can be the no-budget filmmakers dream.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

A film is really a script, actors, a director, and most importantly money. It's unfortunate but its Show Business not Show Art, and films cost a lot of money to do them right. An indie film is all about hustling to just get it made, everything's a struggle, and you just have to beg borrow and steal to make your day. Studio pics have comparatively all the money in the world, but it's a different type of struggle. When someone's paying for it, they get a say. And when they need to make that money back, they're going to be weighing what's creative and interesting and bold with what teenagers in middle America want to spend their money on. So either way you are limited creatively and have to make compromises. It's all about what you fight for and what you walk away from, and having the tact and tenacity to get as much of the film that you want to make up on the screen.

You could go back in time and see any film being made. Which film would it be and why?

I'm not a fan of the film but I would love to be on the set of Titanic- just to watch a giant megolith production that had as many problems as that set did, the sheer drama must have been amazing. I've worked with several people who were on that set and I always ask about the day someone put LSD in the soup at lunch- that would have been an interesting day on set to say the least.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

Pulp fiction “Zed's dead baby.”  Tarantino is a master at dialogue. He walks the ultra fine line between brilliance and camp so well.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

Everything needs source material, whether its a newspaper article or family story, there's no such thing as a completely “original” idea. However, my god do we need to stop making remakes, sequels, super hero reboots and the works. I get it. The studios are scared and want to make sure their money will be recouped and American audiences simply will not take chances on original content like they will on established brands. But I think the pendulum is swinging the other way. All the sequels and prequels have turned into each other- and some of them have been gigantic financial failures. People are getting bored with it, but still, when done right, something like Inglorious Basterds or Battlestar Galactica- remakes can do amazing things.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Again its all source material. Is it a really good book? Will that book's narrative transfer well into film or will the screenwriters be making significant changes. If it's well done no one cares its based off a book.

Author SB Knight

SB Knight has seen his poetry and short stories published in both books and magazines. Now, with the publishing of his first novel he has achieved a goal and dream set many years ago. Currently he is working on the sequel for the Blood Chronicles series.

SB Knight is the creator of ‘The New Author;’ a blog that started as a learning tool but has since grown into a community of friends and peers. He is also co-owner of Premium Promotional Services where authors can find the help they need to promote their book on the Internet.

When not writing he can be found enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing. He resides in West Virginia with his wife and son. To learn more about Mr. Knight visit http://www.sb-knight.com

What is the current project you are working on?

I am working on The Blood Chronicle Series. Book one – Born of Blood will be released in March of 2012. I just finished the sequel, which I need to submit to the publisher, and plan to start the third book soon.

How do you set your book apart from other books in the genre?

This series takes the apex monster, vampires, back to the time when they were sinister, cunning, evil, intelligent, and brutal but at the same time a new story is told. A story never heard before but rooted in both history and myth. The Blood Chronicle Series, in my opinion, adds a new angle to the rich mythology of the vampire.

What inspired you to become a writer?

Life experiences played a large role in me becoming a writer. Those experiences coupled with my imagination triggered an overwhelming amount of stories for me to share with all of you.

 What is the best thing about being a writer?

The best thing is having the opportunity to write my stories and share them with readers.

What is the worst thing about being one?

The worst thing, by far, is the long wait to get a book from idea to publishing manuscript. It is an interesting journey but a long one that demands patience. Some might say the marketing after your book comes out it the worst part but honestly, I’m not too worried about that aspect. Patience though…that is a tough one.
 Who is your favorite author?

I have more than one but Tolkien is at the top but I also really enjoy Terry Brooks, Raymond Feist, and the late Robert Jordan to name a few.

 What are some of your favorite books?

Well, you can probably guess from the authors I listed above. I really enjoy epic fantasy such as Lord of the Rings and Wheel of Time. My favorite book, by far, is the Bible.

 How has social media changed the publishing industry?

I would say the growth of ebooks and ereaders has changed the publishing industry a great deal more than social media. The impact from social media can be found in the way authors and publishers market and promote books. It is easier to spread the news about a book with the help of social media.

The best thing about social media is the opportunity it provides the author to build his/her platform. It really gives us multiple avenues to reach out, meet new people, and expand our range.

What is your thought process like when you're writing?

When I’m writing I think from the perspective of the character I’m writing about. I try not to think, outside of character related, when I’m writing. I know that sounds odd but when I write I want to let go and let the words to flow freely. I find it easier to capture emotion and responses when writing like that. Much of my story planning and brainstorming happens when I am doing other things such as cutting grass, relaxing, or driving.

You could have any super power. What would it be?

I would pick the ability to quickly heal from either a minor or major injury.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

I think we, on planet earth, would be rather arrogant if we thought no other life existed in the vastness of the universe.

Author Shawn Davis

Shawn Davis is a military spouse and the author of the book, The Spy's Wife. She is currently at work on the second book in the series. She promises that the wives of spies can be just as interesting as the spies themselves. Also, if someone tells you they are a spy's wife, they probably aren't.

Shawn watches mixed martial arts and boxing with a passion - and those discussions are almost always welcome. Answers to unasked questions, in no particular order, are as follows: Dan Henderson, welterweight, kimura, Steven Seagal, and ranger panties.

In addition to MMA and boxing, Shawn also has a soft spot for pit bulls, particularly her two rescue pit bulls named Ike and Mamie.

Yes, Shawn has children. No, they aren't perfect. But they are very cute, and she's not the only one that thinks so. She does not plan to participate in extended adolescence parenting, and already has plans for when they vacate their bedrooms.

What is the current project you are working on?

Right now I'm working on the sequel to my first book, The Spy's Wife. It doesn't have a title yet, but I'm pretty sure the word "spy" will be in there somewhere. Although The Spy's Wife deals with the direct aftermath (with a thriller twist) of the loss of a spouse in war, the truth is that the aftershocks continue to come. Book 2 deals with some of those things.

How do you set your book apart from other books in the genre?

For one thing, The Spy's Wife deals with someone on the edge of the intelligence community who is thrust into a position they have seen others live, but never expected to live themselves. I am a military wife, and that is a very different proposition from being the military service-member. However, our Venn Diagrams overlap quite a bit. The Spy's Wife deals with this issue, but in the espionage community.

What inspired you to become a writer?

I've always written! I was first published when I was five years old.I wrote a letter to the editor of the local paper, and he published it on the front page.

What is the best thing about being a writer?

I love telling stories. Whether they are true stories, or ones that only exist in my mind - I love telling stories and entertaining people.

What is the worst thing about being one?

The worst thing about being a writer is the publishing process. I understand the reasons agents and publishers are selective, but given some of the absolutely atrocious books I've paid relatively large amounts of money for on my kindle by legacy authors, I am offended. I see some truly amazing books for under $5 by indie authors, and I think, "You won't publish this, but you will publish THAT tripe? Just because you already know their name?" I don't want to pay Hilton money for a Motel 6 book, and I've done it way too often to trust the industry anymore. I think choosiness is one thing, but exclusiveness is another.

What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Nike had it right - Just do it.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

I can't even begin to estimate! I did a lot of journalism work.

What do you like to do besides writing?

Fight! No, really. I love MMA and boxing. I train in boxing myself, and my third daughter (11 years old) is a tremendously talented amateur boxer. I credit boxing training with keeping me sane when my husband is deployed to war zones. Hitting things is my medication. Also, I lost 60 pounds doing it, so it has side benefits other than than the zen like feeling you get after pounding the heavy bag.

Who is your favorite author?

Oh dear. Just one? I love too many genres! A list, maybe?

Historical Fiction: Sharon Kay Penman, Fantasy: Robert Jordan

Horror/Thriller: F. Paul Wilson, Espionage Thriller: Daniel Silva

I also grew up in California, in the Central Valley, so Steinbeck is very important to me. Hemingway writes about things that often remind me of my husband, I do love reading Hemingway. I could go on and on...

What are some of your favorite books?

I read Frank Yerby's book, "The Odor of Sanctity" so often it fell apart. And it's out of print, now! I wish I had another copy.

How would you describe the writing "scene" where you live?

I live in the DC metro area. Everyone here is writing their memoirs.

How has social media changed the publishing industry?

How hasn't it! Social media allows us to market our own books, and ourselves. We can make contacts more easily. But it's also easier to wander off and get lost. There's a definite trade off.

What is your thought process like when you're writing?

I see what I'm writing as a movie in my head. When I have an idea, I have to write it NOW, or I will lose it - the scene will be over and I won't be able to recapture it from memory.

You could have any super power. What would it be?

How did you know I love the series Heroes? I would want to be able to avoid illness. I hate being sick! I'm generally very healthy, so when I get taken out by something like the flu, it drives me to insanity. I have things to do, and I don't have time to get sick. Also, maybe the ability to make everything taste like chocolate cake.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

I'd have to defer to Dr. Michio Kaku on this one. He's much smarter than I am, and also tremendously entertaining.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

I love the movie Of Mice and Men with Gary Sinise. I hated There Will be Blood, which I know will make some people think I'm an absolute heathen. So I guess my only answer is, "It depends."

If you could have any first edition book. Which would it be and why?

The Gutenberg Bible. I have four children to put through college. I guess that makes me fairly mercenary, right?

Author Bob Moats

Detroit area resident, Bob Moats, has been writing short stories and plays for as long as he can remember. He has lost most of his original stories, typed or handwritten, in the numerous moves he has made from his hometown of Fraser, Michigan to Northern Michigan, to Las Vegas and back to Fraser, where he now lives. He also wrote the short fantasy novella "Crystal Prison of Kyr" and is a published playwright with his three act comedy "Happily Ever After".

Moats became one of the causalities of unemployment early in 2009, and had time on his hands to finally pursue a lifelong dream of writing a full blown crime novel. Thus was born the first book, "Classmate Murders".

What followed was a series of 20 books starting with "The Classmate Murders" which introduces the main character, Jim Richards, who has to admit he has become a senior citizen, reluctantly. Richards, one day, receives an email from a childhood sweetheart asking for his help, but by the time he reaches her, she has been murdered. His life turns around and he is pulled into numerous murders of women from his high school that he hasn't seen in forty years. Along with a friend of his, Buck, a big, mustached biker, they go off to track down the killer before he can get to one former classmate, Penny Wickens, a TV talk show host who Jim has fallen for while protecting her. The killer is also murdering the women right out from under police protection, driving homicide detective Will Trapper crazy, and he slowly depends on Jim to help. There's humor, suspense, wild chases across suburban Detroit with cops, classic cars and motorcycle clubs; murder, mayhem, a good amount of romance and a twist ending.

To  contact or find out more about Bob and his books check out the links below:

Email: bob@magic1online.com

Website: http://murdernovels.com

Bob's new Blog: http://bit.ly/bu5KNN

Ebooks at http://bit.ly/a1CCV8

Books on Kindle http://bit.ly/70tQBq

Twitter: http://twitter.com/murdernovels

Facebook: http://facebook.com/bob.moats

What is the current project you are working on?

I just finished a book called "Fatal Rejection" about an author who wants to murder his editor. Sound familiar? It has serial killers and a murderer stalking his victim. I'm busy promoting the book on Amazon and Smashwords, but have a sequel in mind. I have already started the first chapter and may have it finished in a month or so.

How do you set your book apart from other books in the genre?

As far as possible. Just kidding. I can't even put my books up with other books in my genre; there are so many better books than mine. I know this. I write for people to enjoy, not for the pretentious literary snobs that love to bash books. I know my books are not great, they are like pulp fiction books, kicked out for readers to enjoy. I have many people who have bought all my books and have told me they love them. A friend of mine who I trust to read my beta books and give his opinion, said "The best reviews are from the people that keep reading all your books. If they come back for another book, what better review is there?" I have to agree.

What inspired you to become a writer?

I'm Sixty-two, I can't remember last week let alone years back, but I'll try. I've always enjoyed writing. I first started writing little plays in elementary school and had my friends act them out in class. Then I started to write short stories for my own enjoyment. Years later, I was publishing a weekly entertainment guide for the county I lived in and I would write reviews and goofy things to entertain the readers. I kept up until 2009 when I was unemployed and had nothing better to do, so I wrote my first book, "Classmate Murders".

What is the best thing about being a writer?

Being able to lie and no one condemns you for it. Mark Twain once said: “First, gather your facts; then, distort them at your leisure.” I like being able to make things up and create a world that doesn't exist in real time. I can manipulate people in my stories and put words into their mouths. Plus I like that I can sit in my room at my computer and work at my own pace, with no one watching over me, forcing me to write.

 What is the worst thing about being one?

Trying to make myself work. I have no boss but myself, so I tend to slide too often. But I have a goal to write at least 1600 words a day when I’m working on a book, and I usually make it. Most of the time. I write a book in about a month average. Sometimes two depending on what I have going on outside of writing. So getting myself to write is the hardest part.

What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Write. Anything and all. Short stories, articles that you can submit, just write. Even if it's bad, just develop the desire to put words on paper, or computer, and read what you have written. Later you can hone your writing to be read by pretentious literary snobs and have them kick you around, but don't listen to them. Chuck Lorre, who created many shows like "The Big Bang Theory" and "Two and A Half Men" said: "It's not true that if you believe the good reviews, you must also believe the bad ones. The bad ones could have been written by mean, stupid people who hate your success." I love to quote people.  What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

If you mean books, I have a series about a private investigator named Jim Richards, and the books are now at twenty. I recently took a break from those characters and wrote a new book about serial killers, called "Fatal Rejection". Actually it's about a writer who wants to murder his editor. Just came out on Amazon and Smashwords. I think I mentioned this earlier, and I'll probably do it again.

What do you like to do besides writing?

I'm a gadget freak. I own bunches of gadgets from Android tablets to a Roku streaming video set top box. I have about five Palm PDAs and smartphones, and various other electronic gadgets. If it isn't too expensive, I'll own it.

Who is your favorite author?

He was Robert B. Parker, who passed away last year. I also like James Patterson, Janet Evanovich, Michael Connelly, well, too many to mention.

 What are some of your favorite books?

The ones by my favorite authors; the Spenser, Jesse Stone and Sunny Randall books by Parker, Alex Cross by Patterson, Stephanie Plum by Evanovich, Harry Bosch by Connelly, etc.

How would you describe the writing "scene" where you live?

Where I live? Nothing going on here that I'm involved in. I don't know about Detroit, I live just north of it, but I'm not a joiner, so I don't know if there are book groups locally. Here's another quote, Groucho Marx once said, paraphrasing: "I wouldn't join a club that would have me as a member."

How has social media changed the publishing industry?

It's easier to independently promote your book. Facebook and Twitter have become a way to get out information about it. Although there are people on social media who don't like us to promote, they want to talk about their children or the surgery they had. Or how cute their cat is. I haven't seen any big publishers using the social media to promote, but that is all different now days. There are tons of people who have a book in them and it's easy to put it out as an e-book. Good or bad, they can do this now, bypassing the publishers and using the social media to get the word out. Publishers should be worried.

What is your thought process like when you're writing?

I can't explain how it happens. I sit and start with the beginning of the story then I just let it flow out of my head. What you see on the page is what I typed. I like what was said about Robert B. Parker, my hero author, "He would sit down to write five and, later, ten pages a day. Once he was in his "groove," the words flowed easily, frequently leading him and his characters in unanticipated directions. Bob loved to write, and he always wondered at how his fingers often seemed to do the thinking for him." I took that from his website and this is exactly how I feel about my writing.

You could have any super power. What would it be?

X-ray vision, need I say more. ;-)

Do you believe in life on other planets?

I think humans are so arrogant to think that we are the only life around the solar system or beyond. Mostly because religion has taught us that we were the only ones created. I firmly believe there is life out there, maybe not on two legs with two arms but life, and probably a lot more intelligent than we are.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

I've only seen one movie that stuck by the book, The Golden Compass. I watched Robert Parker's book about Jesse Stone played by Tom Seleck and the only similarity was the characters and the title. Otherwise it was a whole different story, and I read the book just before the movie came out. Not crazy about adaptations so I try not to read the book or see a movie adaptation. I'd waste time being annoyed by the differences.

If you could have any first addition book, which would it be and why?

Well, I would like to own all the original Dead Sea scrolls, just to have them translated properly. Then I would like any first edition by Mark Twain. That would be nice. I have all the first editions of my own books; they may become valuable someday, but probably not.

Oh and did I mention again, that I have a new book out, called "Fatal Rejection"? Available on Amazon and Smashwords.

Author Marla Blowers

Marla Blowers, who grew up in a small town in Nebraska, spent much of her childhood on long vacations with her parents. In their RV, she would pass the time reading. Her love of travel carried over to adulthood, when she eventually moved to Arizona with her own family. She currently works for an airline, which allows her to satisfy her travel desires. Blowers's other interests include writing, horses, cycling, and various power sports. For more information about Marla and her work visit http://marlablowersbooks.com/

What is the current project you are working on? 

I am editing the second book in my Young And Naive, series. The title is Young And Naive, Daddy.

I know that is a strange title, and it isn't Daddy that is naive. *Big grin.*

It's about a young girl, Janeen, who finds out the man who raised her was not her biological father. She doesn't get to know her mother until her late teens. Janeen gets married and has twin girls who bring a lot of mischief to the story.

What inspired you to become a writer?

I have always enjoyed reading. I can remember in my teens reading True Romance magazine. A couple friends and I would write short stories back and forth, you know the kind. I would write a couple lines and they would write a couple lines. I have carried that tradition on with my grandchildren through email, boy do those stories get bizarre.

The reason I actual sat down and got serious about writing is not your typical reason. Like I said I have always enjoyed reading,  one day I was waiting in the car like mothers do for a child to get done with some sort of practice. I didn't have a book with me.  But I did have a notebook!  After that when ever I was waiting for a child to finish up with practice or rehearsal I sat there and wrote. Before long I was writing even sitting at home or relaxing in a boat. I have found writing is just as much fun, if not more fun than reading.

What is the best thing about being a writer?

You can be anybody you want to be, it's sorta like going to a costume party, you can do and say things you normally wouldn't because they don't know who you are.

 What is the worst thing about being one?

What a perfect place for me to thank you for inviting me. The worst thing being an author is trying to get your name out there. So I thank you from the bottom of my heart for this opportunity.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

I currently have one published book. Young And Naive, Learning To Fall. was published August of 2011. I have written 3 more. I am hoping to have Daddy out on Kindle by the first of the year, and the paperback by spring.

What do you like to do besides writing?

I have an embroidery machine which I love to use on some of my sewing projects.  I just recently made both of my daughters new Christmas tree skirts. Traveling is also a favorite interest.  I haven't been out of the country for a couple of years but have enjoyed going to Costa Rica, Italy and even though Puerto Rico isn't another country it was very entertaining to say the least. I am basically an outdoor person, but there is no place like home.

What are some of your favorite books?

I just recently started writing down books I have read, I'm sorry to say I have forgotten most of them. As I come across them I am adding them to my list. But here are a few I can remember that moved me.

The Deep End Of The Ocean

My Sister's Keeper

Flowers In The Attic

 How has social media changed the publishing industry?

It has made it so much easier to get books. For instance, when I was sitting in the car all those years ago with no book, I could have download a new one right onto my Kindle. Of course I didn't even have a computer back then let alone a kindle. There are so many places to get an e book.

What is your thought process like when you're writing?.

I become the characters and have a hard time bringing myself out of the writing mode. It's like living a secret life.

You could have any super power. What would it be?

This is the easiest question. I would love to fly, and quite often do in my dreams.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

No but I do believe in life after death and reincarnation.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

I like to read the book first and not the other way around. You learn so much more from the book. You can get into their heads and know what they are feeling. I have seen some movies that if I hadn't read the book I wouldn't have a clue as to what was going on. Dances With Wolves is an example, I loved the book. I think it would be such an honor to see your novel you worked so hard on, made into a movie.

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Thanks for doing the interview Marla. I'll do what I can to spread the word about your books. I love to interview authors and review their books. Please tell your friends about me and my blog.

Author Jennifer Allis Provost

Jennifer Allis Provost is a native New Englander who lives in a sprawling colonial along with her beautiful and precocious twins, a dog, two birds, three cats, and a wonderful husband who never forgets to buy ice cream. As a child, she read anything and everything she could get her hands on, including a set of encyclopedias, but fantasy was always her favorite. She spends her days drinking vast amounts of coffee, arguing with her computer, and avoiding any and all domestic behavior.

What is the current project you are working on?

Right now I have three projects: The fourth and fifth Chronicles of Parthalan, Golem and Elfsong, and a stand-alone novel called The Copper Girl.

Golem takes place shortly after the events in Rise of the Deva’shi. Latera, the warrior who killed the demon lord and saved Parthalan, hovers near death with Aeolmar frantic to save her. As she slowly recovers, secrets from Aeolmar—and Asherah’s—past threaten not only Aeolmar and Latera’s happiness, but their children’s lives as well.

The Copper Girl is about Sara, an exceptional girl who’s desperately trying to seem ordinary. Magic has been outlawed for almost twenty years, and Sara’s just going through the motions at her boring office job—after all, she doesn’t want the government to kidnap her like they did her brother. But Sara’s a descendent of the Raven clan, arguably the most powerful magical family in history, and magic finds her.

How do you set your book apart from other books in the genre?

I try to add something unique into my stories. For instance, in Heir to the Sun there are two boy-meets-girl storylines, but one involves a priestess and a warrior, while the other is about an amnesiac former slave and a king. Not your standard love stories by any means.

What inspired you to become a writer?

I’ve always been a creative person, whether it be writing, painting, even making jewelry. Writing is what I’m best at, so I stuck with it.

What is the best thing about being a writer?

Oh, so many things. The worlds I can create, the characters who speak to me, being able to add those little details that take a book from good to awesome. I also love getting out and meeting readers at conferences, signings and conventions.

What is the worst thing about being one?

When you get back that first round of copy edits and realize that your perfect prose is riddled with grammatical errors. Or, even worse, when your editor points out a plot hole the size of the Grand Canyon. How do I cope, you ask? Well, first I scream, cry, maybe even stomp around the room a bit. When I’ve calmed to the point where I won’t chuck my laptop across the room (hey, it was expensive) I try to look at the edits objectively. I tackle the grammar first, then I set to filling in those holes. It’s tedious, maddening, and makes my want to claw my eyes out, but if your story’s worth writing, it’s worth perfecting.

What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Read. A LOT. A book a week, more if you can. You want to read your genre,of course, but I would also recommend some classic authors, as well:

Dickens, Shakespeare, Austen, Wilde. Anything by Mark Twain; he was both prolific and brilliant. Research award winners for your genre and read those; for instance, if you write science fiction, check out past Nebula award winners. Learn what works, and what doesn’t. Learn what’s been done to death, and what you can make your own.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

Novel wise, The Chronicles of Parthalan is a five book series, of which two are in print (Heir to the Sun and Rise of the Deva’shi), with The Virgin Queen’ forthcoming winter 2011. I’m also working on two stand alone novels, The Copper Girl, described above, and Dreamwalker, about some feisty Scottish fairies. Short story wise, Zombie Love Song, appears in the Hell Hath No Fury anthology by May December Publications, and All In is a part of the UnCONventional anthology, which will be released January 2012 by Spencer Hill Press.

What do you like to do besides writing?

Long walks on the beach, foot massages… Seriously, I enjoy anything that speaks to my innate creativity, such as painting, crafting, even gardening. I also have a husband and a set of twins to wrangle.

Who is your favorite author?

Can’t pick just one! Robin McKinley, Jacqueline Carey, Patricia Briggs, Madeline L’Engle, Jim Butcher, JRR Tolkein, and CS Lewis, to name a few.

What are some of your favorite books?

The Hero and the Crown, The Blue Sword and Sunshine by Robin McKinley The Time Series by Madeline L’Engle, The Kushiel series by Jacqueline Carey, especially the Imriel trilogy Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay

How would you describe the writing "scene" where you live?

There are a few local conferences at Bay Path College and Mount Holyoke, but overall the scene is pretty light. What we need are more indie book stores!

How has social media changed the publishing industry?

Love social media! Now authors can take their products directly to readers,and no matter where you live you can be part of the action.

What is your thought process like when you're writing?

I get to know my characters. I try to understand their hopes, fears, motivations, so I can flesh out a believable, three-dimensional character. It’s like method acting for the mind.

You could have any super power. What would it be?

The ability to bestow a healthy, long life to another.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

Sure. It would be supremely arrogant for humans to assume that in the vastness of space only Earth was granted life. Of course, all this other life may be nothing but squishy slime molds.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

If you don’t have the budget/time/wherewithal to do it properly, then don’t do it. Case in point, Peter Jackson’s adaptation of Lord of the Rings. He pulled it off, no small feat with a project of that scope.

Other adaptations that have been done well (in my opinion) are The Last Unicorn and The Princess Bride. As for bad adaptations… Well, that’s a pretty long list.

If you could have any first edition book. Which would it be and why?

Without a doubt, The Hero and the Crown by Robin McKinley. It’s my favorite book of all time—I first read it in the fourth grade, and I reread it every few years. Someday I hope to write something that awesome.