Author Chuck Barrett

Chuck Barrett, a Florida native, grew up in Panama City. A graduate of Auburn University, Barrett is a retired air traffic controller of over 26 years experience and veteran commercial pilot and flight instructor spanning over three decades of flight experience. In his flying career, he flew mostly air ambulance with the occasional charter and business flights thrown in the mix.

Barrett’s first writing experience was drafting labor agreements. He started writing fiction in 1998 in his spare time. His first novel, The Savannah Project, was released in March 2010. This thriller interweaves his aviation expertise, a long-held passion for writing and a keen sense of suspense. In 2011, The Savannah Project became an award-winning novel, winning awards in ForeWord Reviews Book of the Year Award, International Book Awards, and Reader View’s Reviewer’s Choice Awards.

He resides in Northeast Florida with his wife, Debi.  If you would like to know more about Chuck and his work please visit http://chuckbarrettbooks.com
What is the current project you are working on?

I am currently working on the third in the series with protagonist Jake Pendleton. By the close of the final scene in The Savannah Project, Jake was left in a state of confusion. His life and nearly everything about it had just changed. The Toymaker, slated for release on February 14, 2012, picks up where The Savannah Project left off. Jake is still struggling until he meets his new mentor—then things really take off. Jake's character grows in The Toymaker as the story progresses so now, for my work-in-progress, Jake is his own man and ready to get caught up in another tale of mystery and intrigue.


How do you define success?

 Success is what you make of it. I've sold thousands of copies of The Savannah Project in less than two years. That means thousands of people have bought and read something I wrote and I continue to get tons of emails from people who say they're now going to buy and read everything I write. I see that as being successful. If your idea of being successful is totally focused on money, then your robbing yourself of something vital…and you may end up robbing your readers. Of course, it is nice when the money comes as well.


How do you handle rejection?

 Why do auto manufactures make so many different model cars? Because everybody has different tastes. Same thing with readers. I write thrillers, a lot of people don't like thrillers…and that's okay. I had emails and reviews that were awful. Fortunately the overwhelming majority of my emails and reviews are positive. If the bad reviews and emails are tastefully done, then maybe there is something they said that can help me improve my writing. If it's just a rant, I treat it that way. Everybody is entitled to his or her opinion.


Did you always want to be a writer?

 No. It never even crossed my mind until after I was 40, then it just hit me. At first, I just talked about it until a good friend persistently encouraged me to do it. And finally I did…it took a long time to crank out that first book, but now it's out there and number 2 is about to be and number 3 will be available by October of 2012.

What is the best thing about being one?

 Becoming totally engrossed in a world of murder, mystery, and mayhem. I never know where I'll be next.

What is the worst thing about being one?

 Becoming totally engrossed in a world of murder, mystery, and mayhem. It's amazing how many things get neglected when I'm writing a new story. It's hard not to become lost in that fascinating new adventure.


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

Counting my work-in-progress, 3. I have no education or formal training in writing; it has all been basically self-taught. I do have experience in technical writing, mostly labor agreements though. After I started writing The Savannah Project, I realized I had a lot to learn, so I rewrote and rewrote and rewrote. Writing is a craft you can never be too good at. And it takes plenty of practice to learn the craft.


Who is your favorite author?

 I don't have a single favorite author but I have been influenced by the writings of so many in one way or another. I write what I like to read and that is thrillers, so the styles of different authors have influenced my style…to name just a few: Steve Berry, David Baldacci, Harlan Coben, David Morrell, Lee Child, Brad Thor, Michael Connelly…the list could go on!


How has your life changed since you became writer?

It has put in front of so many wonderful people, readers and fellow authors alike. The interaction, whether through email, social media, or face-to-face, has been such a wonderful experience.


What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to be a writer?

 If you want to write, then write. Keep writing and don't listen to the naysayers. The more you write, the more you'll enjoy it and the better at it you'll become.


What do you like to do besides writing?

 Outdoorsy stuff! Hiking, fly-fishing, boating, and scuba diving are my favorites. And along with flying, I like to add a little of those things in my stories. For my work-in-progress, I had to take a quick online course in mountain climbing, so I'd have a clue what I was talking about. Now I'm going to have to really climb a mountain—it sound like fun.


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

 I have been a commercial pilot and flight instructor for over 30 years. I was an air traffic controller, from which I am now retired, for 26 ½ years. Now I write full-time.


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

 I tell you what I'll do here; I'll tell you about an old movie that influences my writing. It was a sleeper in the theaters but it was still a fast-paced spy thriller. No Way Out with Kevin Costner when he was very young. The twists were great and the action non-stop—at least it seemed that way back then because there had been nothing quite like. The predicament Costner found himself in was compelling and the end twist—awesome. As far as television is concerned, I don't watch a lot of it but I do like two programs—total opposites too—and that's NCIS and The Walking Dead. Weird, huh?


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

 A dungeon! My wife and I picked an upstairs room that offered a gorgeous view of the lake to be our office. But the windows face south and if we don't keep the room darkening shades closed, the room turns into a furnace—I'm sweltering, the computers are overheating, and I have to turn on the a/c when it's cold outside. Not good planning on our parts. So the room is dark, can't see the outside, and I have stuff (research material for book) spread all around me. What a mess—HELP, I need an office makeover!


How has social media changed the publishing industry?

 In a world where publishers are all but completely cutting out advertising and marketing budgets for all authors except the biggies, the remainder have been forced to foot the bill to promote their own work. With social media, the bigger the following and the more the interaction with those followers can be turned into sales. Interact a lot and promote a little. It's almost like a pyramid scheme for promotion.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

 We've all read the book that was better than the movie. We've seen where the book and movie diverged at some point and we felt cheated. So what! Authors and filmmakers are in the entertainment business. If an author sells the movie rights to a book it's still win-win. When the rights are sold—more money for the author by the sale of the rights. When the movie comes out, book sales rise and as a result—more money for the author. Who loses? If an author doesn't like what a filmmaker wants to do with the story, DON'T SELL THE MOVIE RIGHTS! I say bring on the offers.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Writing is not easy; at times it's down right hard. But when you see the final product, it's worth it tenfold. The biggest thing is don't quit. If you enjoy writing, then write.

For the readers out there, If you like thrillers—man, I have some stories for you. If you don't, that's okay too, because there are so many wonderful authors out there writing good stories. You're bound to find some excellent authors writing what you like to read.

Norman Yeung: Actor, Writer, Director, Painter

Norman Yeung works in film, theatre, and visual arts.

As an actor, Norman’s recent film and television credits include a supporting role in “Resident Evil: Afterlife” (Sony/Screen Gems), a series regular role in “Todd and the Book of Pure Evil” (SPACE/CTV), and a role in “Rookie Blue” (ABC/Global).  Films he has written and directed include “Marnie Love”, “Hello Faye”, and “Light 01², which have screened at international film festivals, on Movieola Channel, Mini Movie International Channel (Europe), and on Air Canada. He was Second Unit Director on “The Tracey Fragments”, a feature film directed by Bruce McDonald. He is currently writing “Anne Darling”, “Rowds”, “Scabs”, and “Margaret Loses Her Daughter”.

Plays he has written include “Pu-Erh”, “Oolong”, “Theory”, and “Lichtenstein’s an 8: A New Formula to Quantify Artistic Quality”.  “Pu-Erh” premiered in 2010 at Theatre Passe Muraille in Toronto and was nominated for four Dora Mavor Moore Awards, including Outstanding New Play.  “Pu-Erh” was a finalist for the 2009 Herman Voaden National Playwriting Competition, receiving an Honourable Mention.  He was a member of the 2011 Tapestry New Opera Composer-Librettist Laboratory. He is featured in the book “Voices Rising: Asian Canadian Cultural Activism” by Xiaoping Li.

He has painted in public and not-so-public spaces since 1993. His graffiti and urban art can be found under bridges, on freight trains, behind warehouses, in transit tunnels, and on living room walls, from New York City to Brisbane. He has exhibited his work in such venues as Art Gallery of Ontario (Toronto), Art Gallery of Mississauga, Board of Directors (Toronto), and curcioprojects (New York City). His painting and illustration clients include LVMH, Bruce Mau Design, National Film Board of Canada, MTV, CBC, and many more. He was featured on CBC Radio 3¢s “MAKE: Next Generation Canadian Creators”, CBC’s ZeD TV, MuchMusic, MTV, and in numerous publications and documentaries.

He holds a BFA in Acting/Theatre from University of British Columbia and a BFA (Honours) in Film Studies from Ryerson University. He was born in Guangzhou, China.

To learn more about Norman and his work you should visit the following sites:

www.normanyeung.com

www.tinyurl.com/normanyeungpage

www.normanyeung.blogspot.com

www.twitter.com/normanyeung

What are the current projects you are working on?

At this time, Season 2 of “Todd & the Book of Pure Evil” is airing in Canada on Space.  Season 1 is also airing in Canada on Much Music and Comedy Network, in the U.S. on FEARnet, in Germany on VIVA/MTV, and in Scandinavia on TNT7.  Probably in other countries, too.

www.toddandthebookofpureevil.com

www.spacecast.com

I play Eddie the Metal Dude, a badass with luxurious hair who wants  nothing but destruction.  Eddie and Satan are best friends forever, cracking jokes about losers while we pass the blunt.  We, the Metal Dudes, help unleash the Book of Pure Evil upon insecure teenagers in a Satanic town, and anyone who uses the Book will get their wishes granted, but limbs get torn and guts get spilled. It’s a horror-comedy that all kids over the age of three should be watching.  We’ve got a great cast that includes Jason Mewes as Jimmy, a janitor with some dildo skills who might be the Metal Dudes’ biggest pain in the ass.

I’m also busy writing plays and working on the libretto for a short opera.  Opera’s fucking rad, and a very very new interest of mine.  I’m also writing screenplays, one of which is a short film that I intend to direct next year.  Writing takes forever, man.

 

Which do you prefer acting, writing, directing, or painting?

All.  But at different times.  Whatever excites me at the moment is what I focus on, but I aways return to the other discipline and then back again.  It’s like rotating crops: one discipline informs the other and when you let one lay fallow for a bit, you’ll return to it with new vigour and clarity.

Some of my greatest influences are multi-disciplinary artists.  Look at John Cassavetes: one of the most important filmmakers who’s also an Oscar-nominated actor.  Look at Sam Shepard: one of the most important American playwrights in recent history who’s also an Oscar-nominated actor.  Most actors would sell their Botoxed souls to get anywhere near an Oscar, let alone make “Faces” or write “True West”.  Look at James Franco, Crispin Glover, Miranda July, Robert LePage, Don McKellar, Douglas Coupland, Jean Cocteau, Andy Warhol, Vincent Gallo, Julian Schnabel… my list goes on.  David Byrne.  How can you fuck with David Byrne?

How do you measure success?

Dying with no regrets.  …Oh wait, that’s how I measure happiness.  …Success… I don’t know how to measure success but I can say this: Don’t measure.  At least not against others.  We “creative” people have a terrible ego problem and it’s like this: As soon as you feel like you’ve succeeded, you realise the next guy has succeeded more.  And as soon as you feel like shit and your abilities have forsaken you, you forget that there are others who view you as a success.  It’s like we’re all leap-frogging over each other, taking turns being “successful”.  I have no fucking idea how to measure success because success is subjective.  I do know one thing: You are your own journey.  Don’t pay too much attention to who’s running alongside you because you will trip.

How do you handle rejection?

Guinness.  Pabst Blue Ribbon.  Labatt 50.  Labatt Blue.  Rolling Rock.  Yuengling.  Hacker-Pschorr.  Get angry.  Löwenbräu.  Put that anger into my work.  Kilkenny.  Work harder.  Old Milwaukee.  Assess what happened.  Brooklyn Lager.  Learn from it.  Birra Moretti.  Move on.

Did you always want to be involved in the arts?

I wanted to be a paleontologist, then a chemist, then I turned twelve and art took over.  But I’ve been drawing and writing stuff ever since I could hold a pencil.

What inspired you to become become involved with the arts?

Death.  I was twelve-years-old and visiting New Zealand with my dad.  We were watching TV in our hotel and “Twins” came on.  Half-way through the movie I realised that people are gonna remember Schwarzenegger forever, but who would remember me? I was getting old, I mean, I’m twelve and what the hell had I done with my life? Nothing.  So I forced myself to get into acting.  At first it was a naïve desire for fame, but as I matured, it became all about legacy.  I want my work to live longer than me.



As an existentialistic twelve-year-old, acting became my first professional pursuit.  It was the first thing I took seriously as a career and I fell in love with the craft, never mind all that fame shit.  All the drawing and writing that I did before twelve… I guess my inspirations were Archie, Batman, Wolverine, Kitty Pryde, Captain Britain, The Punisher, WildC.A.T.s, Tin Tin, Asterix… I also read a lot of novels as a kid.  I credit my sisters.

For filmmaking, it all started when I walked by the Pacific Cinematheque in Vancouver when I was seventeen.  They had a poster for their complete retrospective of Ingmar Bergman, and the image was Max von Sydow playing chess against Death.  I stared and thought, “I guess you can say something with cinema.  I wanna do that.”

What is your writing process like?

I do almost all my first drafts with pen and paper.  Absolutely illegible, always Bic black.  Then I transcribe the writing into my computer, making decisions along the way so essentially my first typed draft is actually a second draft.  I give it to a dramaturge or story editor or someone whose opinion I value.  I make a lot of notes.  I slot those notes into the existing draft and then write the next draft.  Sometimes I’ll let a draft sit for weeks or months while I go work on something else, go live some life, go clear my head, before I start the next draft.  Repeat this process over and over until nothing more needs to be cut out (revising is often trimming or slashing), or until the director says, “Yo, you done? We gotta put this on stage/start shooting in three days.” If it’s a play, I’ll likely still revise after the production.  Don’t we always look back on our work and think, I can make it better? When are we ever done? When we’re dead.

I prefer writing first drafts with pen because of the tactility, the immediacy.  I want a physical connection with my writing.  For screenplays I do my first drafts right into the computer because of the formatting.

How has your life changed since you became involved with the arts?

Way more babes.  Just kidding.  I’m not a musician.

What do you like to do besides acting, writing, directing, and painting?

Um… I watch a lot of hockey.  I eat a lot of salad.  Love salad.  But I don’t like crunchy shit in my salad like croutons and I’m not too fond of nuts and seeds.  Just vegetables, please.  I also have a huge appetite for music that would make most people go, “WTF OMG you call this music ROTFLMFAO!”

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

Not to be pretentious but I’m gonna mostly list filmmakers ‘cause that’s how I approach my viewing.  I’m a big nerd.  Nerds and lists go nicely together…

American (or English-language): John Cassavetes, Maya Deren, Stan Brakhage, Spike Lee, Jim Jarmusch, Hal Hartley, Atom Egoyan, Quentin Tarantino, Mike Leigh, Woody Allen, Arthur Lipsett, Norman McLaren, Alfred Hitchcock, Stanley Kubrick, Lynne Ramsay, “Kramer vs. Kramer”, “Dog Day Afternoon”, “Citizen Kane”, “Pulp Fiction”, “The Brown Bunny”, “Control”, “Drive”, “Wild Style”, “Style Wars”

 

Foreign: Ingmar Bergman, Michelangelo Antonioni, Yasujiro Ozu, Federico Fellini, Satyajit Ray, Akira Kurosawa, Wong Kar-Wai, Jia Zhang-Ke, Zhang Yimou, Hou Hsiao-Hsien, Agnes Varda, Jean-Luc Godard, Eric Rohmer, Francois Truffaut, Jean Renoir, Carl Theodor Dreyer, Rainer Werner Fassbinder, Ermanno Olmi, Pedro Almodovar, Roman Polanski, Michael Haneke, Lars von Trier, “La Haine”, “A Taste of Cherry”, “Cinema Paradiso”

 

 




Television: The Golden Girls

How would you describe your education?

Worked for years at an art house cinema.  Spent half my life in cinematheques.  A fun day for me was scouring the Vancouver Public Library’s excellent collection of VHS tapes of foreign and classic cinema.  Spent half my life in theatres watching plays.  I have a BFA in Acting/Theatre and a BFA in Film, but the real learning comes when you practise your craft.  Formal education only supplements the making and doing.

How has social media changed how people perceive the arts?

I wanna talk about YouTube.  And MySpace and the other things that helped Justin Bieber, Lily Allen, Russell Peters, and others to get noticed.  First of all, our attention spans have become nil due to the internet, and we have patience only for snippets.  I’ve only recently checked out Chat Roulette, which is very unsexy, but it’s also analogous to how we use the internet.  We give everything half-a-second of our attention, realise it’s yet another ugly penis, then click away to an uglier penis….  How do you make someone give you more than half-a-second? Well, on YouTube and MySpace and stuff, you make music or make people laugh.  Music and comedy can be instantly engaging, and after you’ve heard one verse or laughed at one punchline, you’re hooked.  And then you tell everyone on Facebook and Twitter.  And then that musician and comedian and sneezing panda cub go viral.  Boom.  Celebrity.  Social media goes hand-in-hand with music and comedy, and clever stuff, and oooh!-and-aaah! stuff, and weird images, and sexy images, because they are instantly engaging and quickly gratifying.  The pay-off comes very fast: three minutes for a pop song, fifteen seconds to tell a joke, one second to look at a cool picture.  Social media doesn’t seem to work for long-form narrative drama.  How would Rohmer fare on the internet? Narrative drama requires time and investment from the viewer, but the internet is grooming us to crave shorter and shorter. Twitter isn’t helping.  140 characters and everyone’s trying to be the next Oscar Wilde.

For the record, I have absolutely no problem with Bieber, Allen, Peters and others who got noticed from the internet.  In fact, I admire them because of their tremendous talent and ability to harness technology.  Their careers fascinate me.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

Smart.  Brilliant.  Ingenious.  Exciting.  I’ve donated.  I’ll probably use it in the future.  One issue I could see, however, is donor fatigue.  If you work in a discipline that requires box office, like film and theatre, then you’re already asking people to pay to see your work.  And if it’s independent, you’re probably gonna do some kind of fundraiser where you ask people to support your developing work with money.  So, you’re asking your same circles of people for money once, twice, thrice….  You don’t wanna exhaust your circles every time you have a new project.  I guess crowdfunding gives you access to people outside of your circles – the entire world – so maybe I’ve already answered my concern.

How does independent differ from the mainstream?

I used to be the biggest snob and my tastes could be deemed by some as pretentious.  The film had to be subtitled and the music had to be a post-punk/no-wave band that no one’s heard of.  My perspective was kinda like, the more obscure it is and less money it makes, then the higher the artistic quality.  But my opinion has changed since working on “Resident Evil: Afterlife”.  I learned that the amount of care by everyone – cast, crew, company – was overwhelmingly high.  You do take after take until you get it right.  You don’t move on until you’ve got it.  Yes, it could cost a lot of money but that’s what the money is there for.  The challenge for the independent artist is to achieve high quality with limited resources.  The challenge for the mainstream artist is to maintain personal vision amongst a sea of people telling you what to do.

A mainstream, commercial film could make tons of money back because it resonates with a huge population.  It’s a powerful thing to be able to make millions of hard-working folks part with $15-$20.  That power, that attraction, interests me, and I’m learning from it.  The independent artists – myself included – shouldn’t neglect mainstream tastes because we can only learn.  Even if we personally don’t want to make mainstream work, we should at least be cognisant of our relationship to an audience: what they want and what they don’t want.  If anything, those artists could then go fiercely against mainstream ideals because they have a better understanding.  If anything, take the money from working on mainstream productions and put it towards your own projects, whatever your voice.  Snobbery ain’t cool, although it is kinda cool.  I only listen to rap that’s from before 1998.

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

“The Passion of Joan of Arc”.  To watch Dreyer guide that sublime performance out of Falconetti would be… so… uh… Can I say “I have a boner” on your blog?

What's your favorite quote and why?

Jack Palance in Godard’s “Contempt” says, “When I hear the word ‘culture’, I bring out my cheque book.” Why? Because it’s dope.

Author Terri Giuliano Long

Terri Giuliano Long is the bestselling author of the novel In Leah’s Wake. Her life outside of books is devoted to her family. In her free time, she enjoys walking, traveling, and listening to music. True to her Italian-American heritage, she’s an enthusiastic cook. In an alternate reality, she might be an international food writer. She lives with her family on the East Coast and teaches at Boston College. In Leah’s Wake is her debut novel. To find out more about Terri  and her work please visit the links below:

Website: www.tglong.com

Blog: www.tglong.com/blog

Twitter: https://twitter.com/tglong

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/tglongwrites

PRAISE FOR IN LEAH’S WAKE

Susan Straight, National Book Award Finalist, author Take One Candle Light A Room

“Terri Long’s accomplished first novel takes the reader on a passionate roller-coaster ride through contemporary parenthood and marriage. It’s sometimes scary, sometimes sad, and always tender.”

Margot Livesey, author of Banishing Verona and Eva Moves the Furniture

“I felt I knew these characters better than my friends and neighbors. In Leah's Wake is a beautifully written and absorbing novel."

Holly Robinson, Contributing writer, Family Circle, Parents, Ladies’ Home Journal, author of The Gerbil Farmer’s Daughter: A Memoir

" By turns howlingly funny and achingly sad, the book details the vivid, harrowing journey of a fragile family that unravels – and finds redemption – thanks to a teenager’s rebellion. In Leah’s Wake is an irresistible read.”

Jennifer Donovan, Managing Editor 5 Minutes for Books, Top 50 Book Blogger

“There are no quick and easy solutions here for Leah or for her parents. They . . . pulled me right along as I continued to make comparisons to my own life.”

Susie Kline, Blogger, Motherhoot

"As a mom, I felt what Zoe felt. It tore my heart out to see the promise of a child being replaced with the nightmare of reality… I’m adding Terri Giuliano Long to my list of authors I want to be stranded with."

Monica Madsen, Blogger, A Mother’s Touch Bookshelf

"I give In Leah’s Wake 5 stars and recommend reading to anyone with tweens. Although it is fiction, this book can be a great reference for parenting teenagers."

Haley Stokes, Blogger, Triumphal Writing
In Leah's Wake is beautifully written, haunting, fascinating, and a book that has a lot to say, a lot to teach you, without getting preachy.

What is the current project you are working on?

I’m currently working on a psychological thriller with a historical twist.

Nowhere to Run takes place in the White Mountains in northern New Hampshire. A year after the brutal murder of her six-year-old daughter, Abby Minot, formerly an award-winning writer, accepts her first assignment—a profile of the philanthropic Chase family, kin of the popular New Hampshire senator and presidential hopeful, Matthias Chase.

In her initial research, Abby glimpses darkness under the Chase family’s shiny veneer. Digging deeper, she uncovers a shocking web of lies and betrayal, dating back to the nineteenth century. Abby soon finds herself trapped—between an editor obsessed with uncovering the truth and the town and family who will stop at nothing to ensure it stays hidden.


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


In Leah’s Wake, my debut novel, tells the story of a family in collapse. Sixteen-year-old Leah, a star soccer player, has led a perfect life. When she meets a sexy older guy, attracted to his independence, she begins to spread her wings. Drinking, ignoring curfew, dabbling in drugs—all this feels like freedom to her. Her terrified parents, thinking they’re losing their daughter, pull the reigns tighter. Unfortunately, they get it all wrong, pushing when they ought to be pulling, and communication breaks down. Soon, there’s no turning back. Twelve-year-old Justine caught between the parents she loves, and the big sister she adores, finds herself in the fight of her life, trying desperately to pull her family together.

This is a quiet story about an ordinary family in disarray. The multiple points of view – that of the local police officer, as well as each family member – make it unique. Because In Leah’s Wake is very much about community and the need for greater communication – the way each person witnesses an event is distinct and subjective - the stories often overlap. These, I think, are the key differentiators.

What is the best thing about being a writer?

I’m passionate about writing. I enjoy every aspect of the process, from the initial burst of inspiration through the painstaking, sometimes frustrating, months or years of revision. Most exciting - that aha moment, when the work suddenly comes together, you understand what you’re writing about, and the relationships among the various scenes and chapters suddenly make sense.

What is the worst thing about being one?

The worst is marketing my work. To succeed, whether indie or traditionally published, authors must take responsibility for marketing their work. While I enjoy reaching out and connecting with people, I’m uncomfortable with calling attention to myself. The solipsism that can attend self-marketing turns me off.

For six months after publishing In Leah’s Wake, I did no marketing at all. Not even my parents knew that I had published the book. Naturally, I sold very few copies. Realizing that I could either market or watch my book die, I held my nose and jumped in. With my publicist, Emlyn Chand, I’ve developed (I hope) fun, creative marketing activities – games and contests, for instance – that give back to participants. I’ve also given away over 500 eBooks. This builds name recognition without me tweeting or posting about my book 24/7. I think people appreciate this. I also try to support other authors. Reaching out to people--building connections and enhancing relationships--makes marketing enjoyable.

What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Believe in yourself. To deal with rejection, boot your computer, day after day, when it seems as if no one cares, the stars are misaligned – to indie publish in a world that still privileges the traditionally published - you have to believe in yourself.

Writing is a lonely profession. Most of the time, we’re alone with our work. That loneliness can wear on you, and cause you to question yourself.  A community of caring writer friends, supporting and encouraging you, can make all the difference.

Hold onto your dreams. You can make them happen. Don’t ever give up!

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

Before focusing on fiction, I wrote news articles, edited technical articles for trade magazines, and wrote marketing and web copy. I’ve also taught writing for 16 years – so I’ve worked on countless projects. In Leah’s Wake is my first novel; Nowhere to Run will be my second full-length fiction project.

What do you like to do besides writing?

I’m a passionate traveller and foodie. My husband, Dave, and I have had the good fortunate of visiting many beautiful, interesting places. I love ethnic foods and I’m fairly gutsy when it comes to trying new dishes. In Beijing, a few years ago, we went to a tiny restaurant with two students. The restaurant was a local spot and the menu was written in Chinese, so our friends ordered for us. When the steaming bowl arrived, I dipped my chopsticks into the stew – and pulled out a frog. The head had been removed, thank goodness, but the body was fully intact. I realize that a lot of people eat frog; this was actually green. I thought Dave would gag when I ate it. To his credit, he didn’t.

I were not a fiction writer and teacher, I could see myself an international food writer.


Who is your favorite author?

I have many favorites. Anne Tyler was my favorite for a long time; one summer I read every one of her books. Although I didn’t care for her debut, I’ll read anything by Kate Atkinson. Harlan Coben’s books are my guilty secret. My favorite book of all time is The Road, by Cormac McCarthy - I am in awe.
I admire the short story writer Andre Dubus. Dubus wrote haunting, insightful stories about real people. I memorized the end of “A Father’s Story” for a graduate class; years later, I still hear the rhythm and cadence of his language. Jessica Treadway, recipient of the Flannery O’Connor Award for Short Fiction for her latest collection, Please Come Back To Me, writes gorgeously evocative stories. Both authors are, in my view, grossly under-appreciated. It feels terribly wrong that such luminous work reaches the hands of so few readers.

What are some of your favorite books?

This is another tough question - it’s really hard to narrow the list.

The Road, by Cormac McCarthy is my all-time favorite. This powerful novel transports us to a gray, post-apocalyptic world, where humans have been reduced to animal instinct--for inhabitants of this new world order, murder and cannibalism are a means of survival.

Within this harsh environment, McCarthy gives us a tender, elegantly rendered father and son. In their travels, near starvation, they meet terrible challenges and hardships, yet they face every one with dignity and grace. Near death, the man says to his son: "You have my whole heart. You always did.” That line has stayed with me – as have so many other stark, tender moments.

Olive Kitteridge, by Susan Strout, is a quirky book of linked stories. The stories take place in coastal Maine. Although the inhabitants of each New England state are a bit different – I’ve lived most of my life in Massachusetts - I understand and relate to these characters. These deeply human stories, often about family, portray the heartache, the wonder and the joy of ordinary life.

Susan Straight’s elegant novel A Million Nightingales is another favorite. A Million Nightingales tells the moving story of a beautiful young slave girl in nineteenth century Louisiana. Sold upriver, Moinette is repeatedly assaulted and must rely on her intelligence to survive. This powerful story stayed with me long after I’d finished reading.

Many emerging novelists are also writing wonderful books. A few I’ve enjoyed: Farsighted, Emlyn Chand; Black Beast, Rob Guthrie; Forbidden Mind, Kimberly Kinrade; The Trust, Sean Keefer; Exeter, Jennie Coughlin; Well With My Soul, Gregory G. Allen; Treasure Me, Christine Nolfi; and Riversong,Tess Hardwick.

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

We’ve moved to Stowe, Vermont, just two weeks ago. Although I know this is an artsy town, I have not yet had time to discover the scene. Until this fall, we lived in Massachusetts. Boston, with its many universities, boasts a vibrant writing community.

How has social media changed the publishing industry?

Technological advances made it easier, cheaper and faster to publish a book; in that sense technology powered the e-Revolution. Before social media, though, it was nearly impossible for indie writers to sell their books. While people did self-publish, only a lucky few sold more than a hundred copies.

For nearly six months after I published In Leah’s Wake I did no marketing at all – like my predecessors I sold very few books. In March, realizing that I could either market or watch the book die, I began to work on my social media platform. Once I met my publicist, Emlyn Chand, I began to branch out. Since May, through social media alone, I’ve sold over 55,000 books. It’s been an amazing experience. Just a few years ago, this could never have happened. Book bloggers, who read our books and spread the word across the Internet, are vitally important. We couldn’t do it without you, John! Thank you so much!!


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

Before I begin a book, I think, in general terms, about story, character, plot. Once I start writing, I try not to think too much. Otherwise, I run the risk of over-thinking or putting too much logic and not enough instinct into the work. When I’m in the midst of a book, the story stays with me; it invades my dreams at night and I often find myself daydreaming. When I’m in that dreamy state, I tend to recognize connections and figure things out.

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

I’ve always wanted to fly – maybe a flying policewoman. In my book, In Leah’s Wake, the only non-family member with a voice is Jerry Johnson, the policeman. I see him as the connecting force in the novel and for this family. Though flawed, like all of us, he takes his responsibility for others to heart. I very much see police this way – as the connecting force in communities. To me, they’re heroes.


Do you believe in life on other planets?

Yes. Given the size of the universe, I find it impossible to imagine that life exists only on Earth.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

I think they’re wonderful. I’ve seen many outstanding adaptations. Books and films are very different, of course. Books get their power from the rich inner life they depict while films are visual. Assuming that their creative minds work differently, I find the comparison, the differences and similarities between the vision of the writer and filmmaker, very interesting.

That said, I prefer to see the film before reading the book. Knowing the outcome has never spoiled a book for me. Until I started reading on a Kindle, I always read the end of the book first. That allowed me to slow down and savor the writing. On the other hand, once I’ve read a book I have a strong picture of the characters and my own vision of the story; if the filmmaker’s sensibilities are too different from mine or the film veers too far from the story told in the book, the film will often be ruined for me.

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

The Road, Cormac McCarthy. As I’ve mentioned above, I think this book is a masterpiece. It’s a book I could read over and over. Someday – I hope not in my lifetime, but you never know – books will be a novelty. It would be wonderful to have a first edition now, but if books disappeared a first edition would truly be a treasure.

 Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you so very much for hosting me today, John! I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my thoughts with your readers. It’s an honor to be here!

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Thank you for doing the interview Terri. I look forward to reading and reviewing "In Leah's Wake". Terri was nice enough to send me the book trailer for her debut novel. I've emebed the trailer at the bottom of the page.  Readers can purchase "In Leah's Wake" by clicking on the following links:




Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/In-Leahs-Wake-ebook/dp/B0044XV7PG/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1306533515&sr=8-3

Amazon Paper: http://www.amazon.com/Leahs-Wake-Terri-Giuliano-Long/dp/1456310542/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1318690782&sr=8-1

Barnes & Nobles: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/In-Leahs-Wake/Terri-Giuliano-Long/e/2940011264566?itm=1&USRI=In%2BLeah27s%2BWake

Indie Bound: http://www.indiebound.org/book/9780975453391

TRAILER FOR "IN LEAH'S WAKE"



COMING DECEMBER 15 – NEWLY EDITED UK EDITION, PUBLISHED BY INSPIRED QUILL PRESS.

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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?