Lucy Turns Pages: Read, Write, Publish, Promote

Lucy Turns Pages

Author Interview: Sheila Fowler


1. Please introduce yourself (who are you, what genre/s do you write in, what books do you have out)

My name is Sheila Fowler. I'm a lover of TV and anything dachshund. I write Romance, Romantic Suspense, and Cozy Mysteries set in Florida. My latest book is Don't Let Me Down. It's the 3rd book in my Scottish Love Stories series. All of my books are located on Amazon, and I currently have 5 audiobooks available.

2. What are your favourite books?

I love the Stephanie Plum books from Janet Evanovich. And I adore anything from Kelly Elliot. Her Love in Montana series are some of the most romantic books.

3. When did you know you wanted to be an author?

I wrote my first book in 2020 and when I finished it my girlfriend said you are an author. I got addicted to writing after that.

4. What are your favourite and least favourite parts of the writing process?

I love to write, but I hate the editing process. There are all these stories in my head and sometimes they get left on the cutting room floor because they don't fit into the story correctly.

5. What is your writing routine?

I love a tall glass of cold water, my dog sitting next to me, and quiet noise.

6. How do you balance writing (and everything else to do with it) with the rest of your life?

I work full-time as a TV Researcher, so I have to make sure I get that job done first. Then I can start writing.

7. What inspires you? How do you beat writers block?

I have some vivid dreams that help me to create the worlds in my books. My husband is a great partner, helping me when I need it. And the best way to get over writer's block is to talk to other writers. They can help you in ways you will always love. I love to bounce ideas off them and then we sort of help each other that way.

8. How do you keep consistent/write a lot?

I put myself on a deadline. It's the best way to keep consistent.

9. Does anyone read or edit your work before publication? If so, how did you find them?

I have two editors that help me out. We are a part of a group of women writers that got together to write an anthology. Now we help each other with editing and story ideas.

10. Can we have a sneaky look at your future plans?

I'm working on the 10th book in my cozy mystery series. It's about a bank robbery in the small town, a kidnapping, and a lot of family drama. The tagline for all of these books is a little Mystery, a little Romance, and a little Key Lime Pie.

11. Finally, what advice would you give to other writers (inspiring, those publishing and those published)?

Write what you know and believe in what you write. Never let anyone tell you that you are not a good writer. Because if you touch one person with your stories, that is all that matters.

Author Interview: B. N. Reele



1. Please introduce yourself (who are you, what genre/s do you write in, what books do you have out)

Hi there, I'm B. N. Reele, indie author! I write YA fantasy books and have published two novels (both standalone) along with a bunch of short stories published on the Neopets website.


2. What are your favourite books?

I think it stands to say that my favorite author is Agatha Christie, and there are too many favorites for me to choose just one. Right now, I'm stuck between "And Then There Were None" and "A Caribbean Mystery".


3. When did you know you wanted to be an author?

Honestly... I never really thought about being one. I just woke up one day and said "hey, I'd like to write a book" and started writing. Well, I've always written short stories when I felt like it, but writing a full length manuscript was a challenge to be honest and it took me a while to finish the first draft.


4. What are your favourite and least favourite parts of the writing process?

Nothing is more of a challenge than going back to developmentally edit your entire book. Like, you get so engrossed in the story that sometimes you don't realize you might have accidentally changed a minor detail that will throw off the entire plot you've made, and then you have to go back and fix other details. Usually you can catch 'em yourself, but sometimes other readers will point it out.


5. What is your writing routine?

Maybe I'm not the normal writer, because whenever I feel like writing is when I'll go and start to write. I don't sit down and plan out my books because it makes me feel like I'm forcing myself to do something instead of letting it "flow".


6. How do you balance writing (and everything else to do with it) with the rest of your life?

My main job is not writing - nor is it my goal of everyday to sit and write. My life is busy and writing is just something I do for fun, with no inclination to become a full time author. It's always leisure and if I had to feel like I needed to balance it, then more than likely it would feel like a job and probably not be as fun, honestly.


7. What inspires you? How do you beat writers block?

When I see other people with new material and posting updates and books, sometimes I'll sit and start writing my own thing. Also, when I'm super bored at night, I'll tend to write a lot. My kids are my priority during the day so I don't ever really get to just sit around and write.


8. How do you keep consistent/write a lot?

Being as it is, a hobby, I don't really consistently write but I'm totally fine with that.


9. Does anyone read or edit your work before publication? If so, how did you find them?

BETA READERS ON REDDIT, totally the best way to find other people to read it and typically they don't want to charge you.


10. Can we have a sneaky look at your future plans?

I do not currently have any future plans except for a giveaway! I am giving a paperback copy of both my novels in a gift box, with the details listed on my author website.


11. Finally, what advice would you give to other writers (inspiring, those publishing and those published)?

Indie publishing is just as valid as trad and don't let other people tell you otherwise.

Links

Author Interview: Jorge Arenas


1. Please introduce yourself (who are you, what genre/s do you write in, what books do you have out)

Hi! My name is Jorge Arenas and I'm primarily a horror writer, though I plan on expanding to sci-fi sometime in 2025. My latest book is A Blanket of Darkness which details the story of a data analyst who finds that while asleep he is leading a secret life in a plan far from Earth. I also have a novella series about an exorcist named Father Joon Woo who after witnessing his beloved lose her life during an exorcism dedicated his life to sending demons back to Hell. Book three is slated for early 2025 release. I also have a collection of short stories called The Dream Cycle which explores the many sub-genres of horror such as folk, myth, scifi, cosmic, etc.

2. What are your favourite books?

The Shadow Out of Time by HP Lovecraft

3. When did you know you wanted to be an author?

In 2011, I was working for a company that had me traveling 90% of the year and I found myself revisiting some old writings I had from a laptop from college. After reviewing what I had and my roommate giving me a bit of a push I thought that at the very least it would be a great hobby to start. Since my book's first release in 2020, it's gone well beyond a hobby and now is a part of my life.

4. What are your favourite and least favourite parts of the writing process?

Favourite: Research. For my main characters, I enjoy providing backstories that fit their personality. So the process would include building up a character profile, a legitimate profession, family dynamics, etc.

Least favourite: Editing. But, even though I find it to be the least favorite part of the process, it is extremely necessary as it is during that process when authors can discover issues such as plot holes, inconsistencies, etc.

5. What is your writing routine?

Typically, I spend my lunch period at work writing. It's not a lot of time, but I can push about 500 to 1000 words during this time. On the weekends, I enjoy taking afternoons to write. During these periods I have a bit of a ritual: I make some tea, get some cookies, and put on some cello music. For some reason, all of this gets the writing mood going.

6. How do you balance writing (and everything else to do with it) with the rest of your life?

This is the tricky part. I not only have a full-time job, but I also work on the side for both contract work as a writer, and for my wife's business doing everything from social media, books, and digital ads. So I am busy. The real trick is to not beat myself up if I miss a day, but I do my best to commit to a monthly minimal goal to keep the ball rolling; even if that means staying up a few hours late at night to meet those goals.

7. What inspires you? How do you beat writers block?

My dreams. They're quite vivid, yet I don't know how to control them like some people through lucid dreaming. So as you can imagine, nightmares tend to be the majority of my dreams, so I use them to draw inspiration. After being a martial artist for over 20 years, a good workout session is how I beat writers block.

8. How do you keep consistent/write a lot?

As mentioned before, those monthly goals help a lot. Mix those with the concept of memento mori.

9. Does anyone read or edit your work before publication? If so, how did you find them?

Typically, yes. These are other authors who don't write horror. I do this to remove any bias and to get solid feedback. I found them on Twitter! lol.

10. Can we have a sneaky look at your future plans?

Love to! So soon, I'll have another collection of short stories done so The Dream Cycle will have another volume. Father Joon-Woo's journey has only begun so expect several more novellas documenting his battles against the forces of Hell. Finally, I have a new novel still in its earliest stages.

11. Finally, what advice would you give to other writers (inspiring, those publishing and those published)?

Write. That's it. Write. The truth is that the indie scene is the best place to start and you can really do a great deal of learning as author. Just don't get stuck in the mindset of doing anything else but writing.

Author Interview: Bella Dunn




1. Please introduce yourself (who are you, what genre/s do you write in, what books do you have out)

I'm Bella, from Ireland and my main genre is fantasy, though I dip into other genres from time to time. I have two books published - The Dreams Thief (Otherworld series book 1), a romantic urban fantasy (some may call it a romantasy) and The Tree and the Windmill, a romantic suspense with a hint of the paranormal.




2. What are your favourite books?

The tough question! A short list would be "Circe", by Madeline Miller, "The Mists of Avalon", Marion Zimmer Bradley, "Firebrand", also Bradley, "1984", George Orwell, "The Picture of Dorian Gray", Oscar Wilde, "Wuthering Heights", Emily Bronte and to "Kill a Mockingbird", Harper Lee.


3. When did you know you wanted to be an author?

When I was about 6-7. I read "The Snow Queen", by Hans Christian Andersen and that is when I wrote my first story and I never stopped.


4. What are your favourite and least favourite parts of the writing process?

I love creating characters I think and their adventures and seeing how they grow. Contrary to many writers, I actually like editing, when I can tweak the fine details. Least favourite is proof-reading, because I need to focus on word by word rather than the flow of the scene.


5. What is your writing routine?

The worst! I have zero routine! I write on every free time I have which is not much considering I have a full time job and I am a solo parent. I do normally have good chunks of writing on weekend mornings after breakfast!


6. How do you balance writing (and everything else to do with it) with the rest of your life?

Badly! I am a pantser, but I am now striving to get organised! I even bought a year's calendar for my wall!


7. What inspires you? How do you beat writers block?

Other books, but I find a lot of inspiration on observing people. Sometimes something I see at work or on my commute can trigger a whole story!
When writer's block strikes I find that the most useful thing is to take a break, go for a walk, watch TV or a movie, read some or generally just take my mind completely off it.



8. How do you keep consistent/write a lot?

I love writing. I am constantly scribbling so it's more a natural habit than anything else. I need to write something every day as much as I have my tea in the morning :)


9. Does anyone read or edit your work before publication? If so, how did you find them?

I do all my editing because I have no budget for a professional editor. More recently I have joined the Secret Scribes and we tend to read each other's works for mutual advice.


10. Can we have a sneaky look at your future plans?

Yes! I have two new books coming in April 2025, Blood and Dreams, Otherworld book 2 and The Sorrow of the Wise Man, Book 1 of the Eileerean Saga, an epic fantasy series. My plan is to have book 2 of the Eileerean Saga out in 2025 as well, but I cannot confirm it yet.
I am also working on a short story to be part of an anthology to be published with my fellow Secret Scribes sometime in 2025.


11. Finally, what advice would you give to other writers (inspiring, those publishing and those published)?

Just keep writing. Publish those stories where you can. You have nothing to lose in publishing!
And read, constantly, all genres, good stories and bad stories. All will teach you something!


All my links are on LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/belladunnwriter

Author Interview: Jennifer Ford



1. Please introduce yourself (who are you, what genre/s do you write in, what books do you have out)

Hi, my name is Jennifer Ford, I write fantasy and I currently have one book out called Fates Echo


2. What are your favourite books?

My favorite books are The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Claire, Kingdom of Villains by Ella Fields, and Heaven Breaker by Sara Wolf


3. When did you know you wanted to be an author?

I’ve always enjoyed writing stories since elementary school but I really found my passion a few years ago.


4. What are your favourite and most minor favourite parts of the writing process?

My favorite part of the process is watching my characters grow, but my least favorite part by far is naming things.


5. What is your writing routine?

I try to write at least one chapter everyday


6. How do you balance writing (and everything else to do with it) with the rest of your life?

I work super early mornings so I usually get home when everyone else is just starting their day. That gives me time to write in the mornings before I have to do my other obligations.


7. What inspires you? How do you beat writer's block?

I love to brainstorm!


8. How do you keep consistent/write a lot?

I give myself deadlines for when I want things to be done and make myself stick to them.


9. Does anyone read or edit your work before publication? If so, how did you find them?

I have an amazing best friend who is also my beta reader. She brainstorms with me, reads the chapters as I them and gives me her thoughts and opinions as a reader.


10. Can we have a sneaky look at your plans?

Of course! I’m currently working on book 2 of my duology Realm of Dreams. Sanev’s redemption plays a major role in how the story develops.


11. Finally, what advice would you give to other writers (inspiring, those publishing and those published)?

I would say that they just need to start. My first book is by no means the best thing I’ve ever done, but I published it to prove to myself that I can do this. Your first book won’t be perfect and that’s okay. The more you write, the more you’ll improve.

Author Interview: R. H. Gründ



1. Please introduce yourself (who are you, what genre/s do you write in, what books do you have out)

I am R. H. Gründ, a self-published horror writer. I currently have three books out: ROOM OF CLOTH (literary horror), its sequel ABATTOIR, and a more introspective mystery-horror called SIMULACRUM.


2. What are your favourite books?

I'm very fond of American fiction, especially American realism. Some of my favorite authors are F. Scott Fitzgerald, Hubert Selby, Jr., and Cormac McCarthy. Some respective novels I enjoy are TENDER IS THE NIGHT, LAST EXIT TO BROOKLYN, and BLOOD MERIDIAN.

Of course, I also dabble in reading horror! Some of my preferred horror writers include Shirley Jackson and Clive Barker.


3. When did you know you wanted to be an author?

I've always enjoyed telling stories; when I was young, I always told scary stories to my family and classmates. Despite being an avid reader, I didn't seriously start writing until a friend of mine introduced me to the world of fanfiction in middle school; since then, I've turned writing into my main passion, with serious designs to become a published author starting in high school. Overall, I've been writing for over two decades.


4. What are your favourite and least favourite parts of the writing process?

My favorite part of the writing process is definitely the invention and drafting stages! Prewriting, outlining, and ironing out the creative "kinks" and "knots" of the story is very satisfying. It's fascinating to look back at early notes and see the finished product differ dramatically from the initial concepts.

My least favorite part of the process is revising and editing. Revision can really stretch the mental muscle, requiring a lot of attention-demanding reorganization, restructuring, and rewriting. Editing is simply laborious and time-consuming--it's not uncommon for me to take two hours just to edit five pages!


5. What is your writing routine?

Since my free time is limited, I carve out at least one writing session per week. When I have more time, I write regularly, every day if not every other day.


6. How do you balance writing (and everything else to do with it) with the rest of your life?

Balancing writing is challenging, especially as a self-published author; I have to market, promote, design, edit, etc. on top of writing. Reserving time in advance and sticking to a regular routine is critical for me to finish projects, particularly long-form projects that can easily take over a year to finish (taking into account revising/editing, designing cover art, formatting the book interior, and so on).


7. What inspires you? How do you beat writer's block?

Fortunately, the stories insist on themselves! I consider my function as a writer to be one of translation--I'm finding the optimal way to convey a message being delivered to me (by myself via my subconscious mind). I'm also a very strict "architect"/plotter, so I outline extensively before I write, to the extent that I rarely write a story unless I have it virtually all mapped out. This process helps to mitigate the amount of writer's block I deal with.


8. How do you keep consistent/write a lot?

Sticking to a schedule is key! If I commit to every Saturday, for example, I internalize that I have at least one weekly appointment I have to keep. Nothing interferes with that commitment save for emergencies!


9. Does anyone read or edit your work before publication? If so, how did you find them?

I have some trusted readers I send manuscripts to that help me with revising and editing. I also have other developmental and copy editors I've met via networking, largely through engagement on social media like Twitter/X and Instagram.


10. Can we have a sneaky look at your future plans?

I'm always writing! Currently, I'm working on a new standalone horror novel (although it will be a little leaner and less "caloric" compared to my earlier books). There may also be a third Room of Cloth book if I can get the outline down--and beyond that, I'm considering a potential series of brisker sci-fi horrors and maybe even a novel about teaching!


11. Finally, what advice would you give to other writers (inspiring, those publishing and those published)?

To succeed as a writer, you must write because you want to write, not because you are chasing money or fame. If you ask yourself, "Would I be doing this regardless?", and the answer is "no," you may want to reconsider your reasons for jumping into writing professionally. Additionally, you must be dedicated to honing your craft. Reading regularly and widely is essential, and writing well can take years. Patience is key, but so is consistency.

Links:

Author Interview: Jon Jones



1. Please introduce yourself (who are you, what genre/s do you write in, what books do you have out)

My name is Jon Jones. I live in Sheffield, where I am a full-time primary school teacher. I enjoy writing crime fiction novellas with exciting twists and plots, and I have self-published three on Amazon. The Mystery of the Vanishing Bullets, The Case of the Carlisle Diamonds and The Conundrum of the Dead Pop Star.


2. What are your favourite books?

I like to read crime fiction, and I like popular authors such as Conan-Doyle and Christie, but I also like lesser-known authors such as John Dickson-Carr. I also enjoy reading about psychology by authors like Professor Steve Peters and Professor Richard Wiseman.


3. When did you know you wanted to be an author?

Only when I started teaching did I realise how much I enjoyed writing short stories for the children to use in English lessons. I wondered if I could come up with something that would be baffling and fun for the reader to solve.


4. What are your favourite and most minor favourite parts of the writing process?
 
I enjoy writing because I get a feeling in the flow of it all. You can have an idea, but as you type or handwrite, your ideas change as they flow from the original idea. I am not keen on editing, but I can see that as you reshape the writing, it really takes shape and starts to improve.


5. What is your writing routine?

I just write. I know this sounds a little silly, but I carry around a notepad and write if I am waiting for a meeting to start. If I am stuck in a queue, I write. If I am working on something more formally, I tend to come in from work and write for 30-60 minutes. I also write a weekly Substack (www.animated.substack.com), where I research a cartoon's history and publish it every Sunday. That means I must be disciplined to study and write this, too, as I am on the clock. This has meant that I have become more disciplined with all my writing.


6. How do you balance writing (and everything else to do with it) with the rest of your life?

I try to be as organised as I can during the week. I use methods advocated by Cal Newport, such as time blocking, to fit in everything. Admittedly, this doesn't always work, as my job can and does throw some curveballs at me!


7. What inspires you? How do you beat writer's block?

I get inspired by small things, like a conversation I overhear or an image I see, and wonder what would happen if. As for writer's block, I have a little online notepad called Nuggets and Random Thoughts, and I have been filling it out for about five years. So, if I feel that a block is coming up ahead, I look through it and usually get inspired by something I have written in there.


8. How do you keep consistent/write a lot?

Time blocking has been an eye-opener for me. I was a little hit-and-miss originally with vague goals. Now, I write for time rather than a word count, which really helps. I know that I am going to have 30 minutes here or 20 minutes there, so I get prepared rather than being ready but with nothing to write.


9. Does anyone read or edit your work before publication? If so, how did you find them?

My wife and eldest daughter have read my work before, but I am on the hunt for a good editor at the minute as I know that this is something that I need to develop my writing further.


10. Can we have a sneaky look at your plans?

I plan to continue with a crime fiction book I am writing at the minute, which is at novel length rather than a novella, and to complete a children's book by the end of the year I have been working on.

11. Finally, what advice would you give to other writers (inspiring, those publishing and those published)?


Although I am sure writers hear lots of writing advice, as I know I have, what works for me might not work for you. You need to find your beat and stay away from the distractions.

Author Interview: James Garcia Jr.



1. Introduce yourself. Who are you? What genres? What books do you have out?

I am James Garcia Jr. I write paranormal and horror fiction, usually with an edgy or crossover vibe to them. That means there’s some Bible in there; the original good versus evil. I usually use the following promotion slogan: There are things that go bump in the night. Won’t you let me show you? I have published 6 novels so far and just published my latest, entitled The Color of Sound. This one is about a 16-year-old girl who hears voices. She suddenly loses the scales over her eyes, allowing her to be able to see both angels and demons. Neither side is pleased about this. She meets her guardian angel who counsels her as she comes to grips with this special ability. Last week, one wanted her dead. This week, they all do.

I have the Dance on Fire vampire series which is currently 3 books. I have Seeing Ghosts which is my paranormal with romance; and I have Photographs which is a paranormal mystery.


2. What are your favorite books?

My favorite books are much like my favorite music – they have to hit a certain mood or emotion that I’m feeling at any particular time. In horror, Headhunter by Michael Slade; The Thief of Always, a fable by horror author Clive Barker; The George MacDonald Malcolm series of Malcolm and The Marquis’ Secret; and Beach Music by Pat Conroy. That last one always shocks my audience. They expect me to list King, Rice, Crichton, etc., but no. I defy anyone to offer a better book than Beach Music.


3. When did you know you wanted to be an author?

The way I remember the series of events was I first discovered rock music in the late 70’s, early 80’s. It’s almost all elevator music now, but the early days of heavy metal caught me up. I also discovered that I was old enough to watch horror movies: Friday the 13th, Halloween, The Thing, The Fog, The Nightmare on Elm Street, etc. I soon bought an electric guitar and thought I would be a musician. When I started writing my own song lyrics, I must have realized that I needed much more space than those conventions allowed. I recall killing off all my friends in my first slasher story! That story will never see the light of day. You’re welcome! *laughs* Eventually, as late teens turned into early twenties, I realized that I had the skill.


4. What are your favorite and least favorite parts of the writing process?

My favorite part is the general outlining through the first two drafts when the thing goes from a seed to a fully grown tree. It still needs a ton of pruning, but that’s the fun part. I can tolerate the middle part when I edit and edit and edit again, think it’s damn good and then send it off to my trusty editor. My least favorite part is when I barricade myself in a closed room and read the entire thing aloud to make sure each sentence sings. By then, I’m tired of it – no matter how good it is. Yet, it works. That’s why I keep doing it. I just reserve the right to complain. *laughs*


5. What is your writing routine?

Because I work a ten-hour day job as a Safety Manager – which means I could also receive a phone call and go back to work if something bad happens, I do not write every day. I take on one project every couple of years. I like to tell people it’s like having multiple pots simmering on the stove. Once I decide which one smells the best, I push the others to the back burner, as it were. I then begin meditating on the project throughout the day until I begin to see enough. I then sit down and write a general outline. It’s about 6-10 pages of paragraphs, detailing what happens. I move those around and fill in blanks until I can see the entire thing like a film in my head. Only then do I sit and begin the writing. By then, it basically writes itself. I like to leave space for unexpected magic to occur that surprises even me during the writing.


6. How do you balance writing with the rest of your life?

It was much more difficult in the early days of our marriage when the children were young. Truth be told, I didn’t write at all. I only dreamt of being a writer. I started Dance on Fire but didn’t finish it for twenty years. I’m 55 now, but when I turned 38, I really started to feel the regret I was facing if I never finished that manuscript. So, I did. I found a home for the book and wrote the first two drafts of book 2 in the series in eight months. That publisher soon closed shop. I had a pity-party for a day and then realized it was time to self-publish. My wife will tell you that I was married to my trusty laptop for about five years at that point. I have better balance now, but we’ve also been married thirty-four years, and the children are grown.


7. What inspires you? How do you beat writers block?

I think it’s that monster called regret again. I don’t want any. At the end - God forbid I end up in an old-folks home or banished to the rocking chair in the corner of a room, I don’t want anyone to be able to say that I didn’t try hard enough. When I retire, I look forward to getting up early, pouring that coffee and creating those worlds, every day. It sounds perfect! As for writer’s block, I feel like I always have a couple of extra ideas on that back burner.


8. Does anyone read or edit your work before publication? If so, how did you find them?

I have an editor. She’s a writer also. I found her in the writing community. When my first novel lost its home, I reached out to her, and she’s been editing everything I have done since. I don’t give it to her until I feel it’s good and all the heavy lifting has been done. I then have some beta readers who read it and let me know what we’ve got. They are still too easy with me, I feel. I’ve really got to get them to push me harder. It could be that it is clean and wrapped up well by the time they see it. Perhaps not.


9. Can we have a sneaky look at your future plans?

No, you may not. *laughs* Sure. My latest book is actually Dance on Fire 3.5. That 16-year-old with the ability to see angels and demons is joining the team. There are a few clues sprinkled about, and then in the final chapter Jewel she meets one of the characters from that series and realizes the vampire myth in town was actually true. It’s the same town, you see. In the beginning, I was world-building a fictional town that was essentially my own. I finally realized if Uncle Stevie (King) can write about Bangor, Maine all the time, nothing was stopping me from doing the same. It turns out my town is haunted by paranormal activity. I’m really going to have to explain that one of these days!! My young character will be pivotal to helping my vampire Nathaniel and his mortal family with what’s coming in Dance on Fire 4. I’m outlining that one now because the holiday season is the perfect time for writing.


10. Finally, what advice would you give to other writers?

If you’re passionate about doing something – anything – don’t let anyone stop you. Have no regrets. Dreams do come true. With regard to writing, join the community. Family doesn’t always understand how or why we do what we do. Only other writers know this. Meet and interact with them on social networks, etc. They can encourage and also help. I’m still using the formatting notes that another dear friend of mine in the community shared with me. And I have friends that I have made and actually met a couple in real life.

Guest Post: The Birth of Windwalker and Beyond the Fifth Gate: A Journey of Reflection and Imagination by Donna Sundblad

Epic fantasy novels

I currently have three epic adventure fantasies published. The narratives are independent of each other, but two of them, Windwalker and Beyond the Fifth Gate evolved from the same seed of imagination and are uniquely tied to one another. Both emerged from the simple practice of changing perspective—transforming ordinary experiences into extraordinary narratives.

I went for a walk with purpose; looking for an idea for a story. As I walked, I studied the landscape around me and thought, what if I were one inch tall? The concept of viewing the world through this new lens sparked my creativity. This shift opened my mind to new possibilities, allowing me to see the mundane with childlike wonder. I came upon a drainage ditch. As I envisioned myself small, the ditch morphed into a mysterious cavern. This playful exercise provided the foundational imagery that inspired Windwalker.

This is what I wrote when I returned home. It is the seed that developed into Windwalker and Beyond the fifth Gate. The only thing I’ve changed for this post is the character’s name. He didn’t have a name when I originally wrote it:

Manelin slipped along the slope, using the trees to steady his hurried pace. Something big crashed through the forest not far behind him. The threat moved silently through the woods, not a hoof beat or footfall to be heard, only the rush of splintering tree trunks warned him to run. Up ahead, he caught a glimpse of a cave, half hidden by vegetation. Hand over hand; he used thick rope-like vines to pull himself up the incline toward the haven. He could hide in there.

The process of writing Beyond the Fifth Gate was fueled by reflective exercises that encouraged me to explore the “Flip Side” of this original snippet. This technique involved reversing key elements to create a fresh narrative. In Windwalker, I developed the male protagonist, Manelin, who faces dangers in a murky forest and escapes into a dark cave. On the flip side, I reimagined this story through the lens of a female character named Elita and transformed her experience from one of fear to one of calmness in a cavern filled with light. This exercise revealed the emotional depth of both characters and enriched the overall narratives.

I used these exercises as a form of discovery. Looking for new ideas to incorporate that evolved organically. It worked, but the result was two novels intertwined through this blend of reflection and imagination, but connected in no other way. The act of stepping back to consider different perspectives allowed me to uncover hidden layers within the stories.
 
In Windwalker the Stygians welcomed disease-riddled Jonnick refugees to their shores and unwittingly unleashed a curse bringing strife and division. Ancient prophecies hint at a chance for unity, but Queen Riona's paranoia threatens everything. Social outcasts Manelin and Jalil navigate a world teetering on the brink of annihilation. It’s a fantasy tale of friendship, adventure, and courage, where destiny unfolds in unexpected ways.
 
Beyond the Fifth Gate is also perfect for teens, young adults, and fantasy lovers of all ages but it is a different story. It features a strong female protagonist chosen to save her world. She journeys through mystical gates on a quest where she must collect key items, and return to free her people enslaved by an insectoid race. Time is limited. She has to make it through all five gates before they close. It’s an uplifting adventure that celebrates courage, friendship, and hope.

Though I didn’t intend to write two novels initially, these exercises became a powerful form of discovery. This journey taught me the value of crafting compelling fantasy adventures filled with thrilling quests, formidable foes, and the transformative power of courage in the battle between good and evil.

I’m also excited to announce the Questing for Destiny Collection*! This volume features all three of my fantasy adventure tales, spotlighting unlikely heroes who defy the odds to discover their true purpose. You can purchase these tales individually or enjoy them all together in this collection. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of Manelin’s adventures or the uplifting journey of Elita, there’s something in this collection for every fantasy lover.

I encourage fellow writers to embrace similar exercises—take that walk, change your perspective, and see what unfolds.

*Questing for Destiny Collection is a new release currently available on Google Play.

Author Interview: Gregory Alexander Sharp

 

Interview with Gregory Alexander Sharp, author of supernatural thrillers and horror.

1. Please introduce yourself (who are you, what genre/s do you write in, what books do you have out)

Hi, I’m Gregory Alexander Sharp, although most people call me Greg (or Sharpy). I’m a full time executive at a global business services company, and part-time writer and podcaster. So far my creative work has all been in the genre of the supernatural thriller, with occasional dalliances into horror. I’ve published four stories to this point, two short-stories of about four thousand words, and two novels stretching out tow one hundred and sixty thousand words in the case of IL LUPO. The short-stories have each been published on Halloween the first of which was in 2023. That was THE BRIDGE, and it told the story of Johnny, a popular boy whose life is thrown into disarray by decisions his parents are forced to take. The second short-story, THE TRAPDOOR is set in post-war Britain, and centres on a bomb-site that holds a dark secret!

My novels, IL LUPO and its sequel, KILL AND CURE, both follow the story of old friends, Charlie Mortimer and Nick Frobisher, and the misfortune that befalls them when they encounter a man named Telemaco Russo, who stands accused of being a werewolf. Definitely more supernatural thriller than out and out gore-fest, these are stories told in the style of classic horror, but in a contemporary setting.

As a writer I am also a regular contributor to A SERIAL [KILLER] DRAMA: WEREWOLF THE PODCAST, which is a weekly audio drama that goes out on podcasting platforms, telling the story of Wil The Werewolf and various other characters. This does get into true horror, but also delves deeply into both pathos and dark comedy. I am also fortunate enough that both myself and now my wife have been invited to voice act a number of the characters by the show’s owner, Fenrir Thorvaldsen, so I’m a contributor on more than one level. You’ll hear me in the voices of Simon The Professor and William Marshal among others.

2. What are your favourite books?

I’m a very big fan of the books of Glyn Iliffe, particularly the series based around the siege of Troy and the Odyssey which followed it, as well as the retelling of the stories of Heracles. I’d also have to say that Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, and Dracula by Bram Stoker are among the best works of fiction I have ever read, they are so dark and dramatic, and so emotionally evocative.

A story many people are familiar with from the movie adaptations, but I am a huge fan of from its original literary format is The Day Of The Jackal by Frederick Forsythe. I remember that being on my parents’ bookshelf throughout my childhood, and then one day as a young man I finally picked it up and started to read. I got lost in that book for days!

More recently I have also listened to a number of works in audiobook format, and my baptism of fire was the entire Harry Potter series, which I guzzled in a couple of weeks over the Christmas period at the and of 2020. Prisoner of Azkaban is one of my favourite book of all time.

3. When did you know you wanted to be an author?

I’ve always been something of a storyteller, and as a child, even when rebelling for all I was worth at school, I could be found in a private moment writing my own take on classic horrors, or Marvel superhero stories (particularly The Hulk). I had my first crack at writing properly in my early thirties, that story is still a WIP that I intend to complete one day. It is set against the London nightclub scene of the 1990s, and weaves personal experiences of mine through a cautionary fable. But I became so busy with work, that book just got parked when I was no more than a couple of chapters in (they are not bad, actually, and I might keep them).

Some years later, my wife, Dee, said to me, “why don’t you write about something you’re really into? You know, werewolves and all that rubbish?” Once the hurt had worn off, I found that as usual she had a good idea there, and I started to think about what a modern classic werewolf story might look like. When my father passed away I found I needed a break, and we took a trip to Rome, ultimately travelling south to the Amalfi Coast, the Bay of Naples, and the ancient city of Pompeii. At the end of that trip I said to Dee that I knew exactly what was going to happen and where I was going to set it, the rest, I asserted, should be simple enough. Well, it was, but it took me nearly ten years to find the darned time!

4. What are your favourite and least favourite parts of the writing process?

I love, just love backing myself and my characters into a corner that I haven’t planned a way out of… and then finding one! So many time in IL LUPO did I find myself blinking at the screen of my laptop wondering if I would need to delete the half-chapter that had led my into this dead-end, only to find myself punching the air in triumph when I’d figured out ‘the way’. Nailing a well-hidden plot twist is another favourite aspect for me. If you read my novels a second time (as some people tell me they have), the clues I have left become lightbulb moments, and knowing what my readers will find out is such fun.

Less fun is proofreading, not because I don’t enjoy reading my own stories, I do (they are, after all, quite brilliant… >insert genuine modesty here<), but it is so difficult to spot minor grammatical errors in your own writing. The voice in my head is highly skilled at reading what I intended to write, and not what my fumbly fingers may have inadvertently converted that to. Of course, there are other people who proofread my work before I finalise it, both of whom are editors in their own right, but I don’t like to pass drafts to them that cause frustration by being poorly polished.

5. What is your writing routine?

It’s early-doors for me. Before the Covid pandemic I was a commuter, spending between three and four hours on trains and walking each day as I plunged into and out of The City of London with all the other rats in the race, but that has changed now. My working days are now almost exclusively spend in my office at home, working in a virtual environment, and that has provided me with some work-life balance by being able to eat dinner with my wife in the evenings, and also gives me an hour in the morning where I can indulge my creative passions, and still get more time in bed before the alarm goes off. I call that win-win-win!

So, for me, the early bird does indeed catch the worm, or in this case, the creative bug.

A typical week will include recording my parts for Werewolf The Podcast, engaging with Fenrir and discussing upcoming plotlines (something we usually do via WhatsApp voice messages), and ideally some time dedicated to writing.

6. How do you balance writing (and everything else to do with it) with the rest of your life?

I have a very demanding job and I lead a team of people in quite senior positions, each with a large portfolio of responsibility, so when the demands of work demand my time, they take priority. It’s quite possible for me to have zero time to devote to the creative side of things in any given week, so I just have to suck that up and recognise the importance of my career. Beyond that, I obviously have my home life, too, and in the great scheme of things that will always come first. I love the time I spend with my wife, Dee, and I take great pleasure in the time I spend out walking with Branston, our cocker spaniel. And I’m a golfer, too, I have a 07:30am tee-time every Sunday morning. Gosh, I’m exhausted just writing all of that stuff out, how do I ever find the time? Well, the truth is that I have to be very strict, and just accept that there is more to life than telling my stories, and yet if I am to be true to my soul, I do need to find that creative outlet. So it’s a juggling act, and a work in constant process, and for now (at least) it seems to be working just fine.

7. What inspires you? How do you beat writers block?

I am inspired on a daily basis by other Indie Authors. I spend a solid amount of my ‘creative’ time marketing my wares on X, and other social platforms, and soe of the people I spend the most time with are hugely successful. I try to learn what I can from them whilst still retaining my own sense of self.

In a more general sense, I was inspired by the classic horror movies of the 1930s and 1940s and that’s something that’s been with me since childhood. Those old Hollywood films were shown on television in the UK when I was around twelve years of age and I just loved them. Something that always struck me about those iconic versions of Dracula, Frankenstein, and The Wolf Man, was that there did not need to be any blood or gore in order to shake you, it was the threat of violence rather than the depiction of it that horrified the viewer. I’ve tried my hardest to replicate that in my own work in a way a contemporary readership can connect with, especially in my novels.

Now, in terms of writers’ block, I have not yet bumped into that frustrating phenomenon, but part of the reason for that may be related to the rather staccato way in which my time is made available to me. It could very well be the case that, if I was to be a full time writer, that might be something that I would have to deal with, but for now I’m very pleased to say, when I have time to write, I write.

8. How do you keep consistent/write a lot?

IN terms of consistency within the sound and feel of my narrative, I read my work back to myself, but not necessarily in my own voice. There is typically a tone or a style I’m trying to achieve, and that will usually make it easy enough for me to tune in to that sense, that feeling. With my characters, they have their own personalities and there own way of expressing themselves, which I just allow to happen. Ernest Wainwright, for instance, who is one of the main characters in my novels, doesn’t quite pronounce his ‘R’s as ‘W’s but he very nearly does, and I have a lot of fun with that aspect. Connie, who is another character from IL LUPO and KILL AND CURE, speaks in a very different way (she is a very contemporary medical professional from the Harley Street in London), and she speaks in an entirely different idiom. It’s always been quite easy for me to rely on the personality of my characters to keep me on the straight and narrow as their chronicler.

9. Does anyone read or edit your work before publication? If so, how did you find them?

I’m very fortunate that a dear friend of ours is a publishing professional with many years as an editor on her resumé. She also happens to be a fan of my genre, so she gets to read the latest stuff before anyone else, and I get an opinion, and access to some guidance and some editorial skills that are completely invaluable.

Fenrir Thorvaldsen of Werewolf The Podcast is another editor whom I’m fortunate enough to say enjoys my work, and I just love getting his feedback, which is always absolutely on-point. And my final proofreader is my mother-in-law, Alison, who might just be my number one fan!

10. Can we have a sneaky look at your future plans?

You can indeed!

I currently have two WIPs and two WIW (that Works In Waiting). Fenrir and I collaborated on a significant storyline on Werewolf The Podcast that ran for over thirty episodes, and alongside everything else, we are currently converting the scripts to a readable format to be published in the form of a novel. It really was a great story and it’s so much fun reading those scripts back as we go through the process. Watch out for that later this year or early next).

I’m also writing a novel which is set in the 1970s, somewhere in the United States, and it based around love, loss, rivalry, and revenge! No werewolves of vampires there, but guns, booze, and disco-balls aplenty! That story I’m hoping to tell in about ninety thousand words, so a but more punchy than the grand tour of IL LUPO, more of a novella.

Next year I will embark on a third IL LUPO novel, and I also plan to write a spiritual piece about a man in an asylum who claims to be God.

11. Finally, what advice would you give to other writers (inspiring, those publishing and those published)?

First of all, writers gonna write, so you must do that, obviously. Please, don’t enter into this with any expectations of being the next Rowling or Tolkien, chances are you won’t be. It’s a lot like taking up golf and hoping to be the next Tiger Woods, ain’t gonna happen! So do it for you, or for those close to you, and do it because you love it, not because you want it to pay your mortgage.

Now, that said, you do want to be good at it, so do make sure you’re knowledge of grammar and structuring are OK, those are easy skills to brush up on, and please don’t rely on your editor, or worse, AI, to cover that off for you. You’re the writer, you do the writing.

Final bit of advice, if you attempt the traditional publishing route and find you can’t make it happen, don’t let that stop you. These days there are numerous ways to get your work published, and it’s not an either/or situation, there is a sliding scale. Part of the trick is to identify the return you’ll get on any investment you intend to make, whether that be your own time or in money you may plan to spend with individuals or companies who offer you publishing or marketing services. Whatever you are being promised, there are people who can deliver, but many more who just want your money, so be really selective and do your own research.

Above all else, throw yourself into it, be you, and have fun, I know I am!

The Best Ways to Advertise Your Book: Free and Paid Strategies for Every Author

 

A woman holds a sign that reads "Buy Some Good Books," standing in front of bookshelves filled with colorful books, creating an inviting scene perfect for promoting book advertising strategies.

As an author, getting your book into readers' hands is as important as writing it. But book promotion can be challenging, especially if you’re new to marketing or have a limited budget. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to promote your book, whether you’re looking for free options or are ready to invest in paid advertising. Here, we’ll cover some of the best free and paid strategies to get your book noticed.


Free Ways to Advertise Your Book


1. Build an Author Website and Blog

Having an author website is essential for establishing your online presence. Use your website to post updates, share insights on your writing process, and build a blog to attract readers interested in your genre. Regularly updated content can improve your SEO ranking, making it easier for readers to find you through search engines.


   - Tip: Use relevant keywords in your blog posts that relate to your book’s themes or genre. For instance, if you write thrillers, blog about "top thriller books," or “how to write suspenseful scenes.”


2. Engage on Social Media Platforms

Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok offer excellent opportunities to connect with readers for free. Consistent posting and engaging with followers by sharing insights, updates, and excerpts can help grow your audience organically.


   - Tip: Use trending hashtags related to your book genre (#ThrillerBooks, #FantasyReads) to increase your posts' visibility. Cross-promote by tagging authors and influencers in your genre to reach their followers as well.


3. Start an Email Newsletter

Building an email list allows you to engage directly with readers who are interested in your work. Offer a free chapter of your book or a downloadable resource as an incentive for new subscribers.


   - Tip: Send regular updates, new book announcements, and exclusive content to keep your subscribers engaged and interested in your upcoming releases.


4. Join Online Reader Communities

Websites like Goodreads and LibraryThing are ideal for connecting with readers. Join groups related to your genre, participate in discussions, and share information about your book (without overt self-promotion).


   - Tip: Offer to send free review copies to members of these communities. Reviews and ratings on these platforms can significantly boost your book's visibility.


5. Collaborate with Other Authors

Partnering with authors in your genre can amplify your reach. You can organize joint giveaways, cross-promote each other’s books in newsletters, or co-host virtual book launches.


   - Tip: When organizing giveaways or events, consider partnering with authors whose readership aligns with your target audience to maximize the potential reach.


Paid Ways to Advertise Your Book


1. Amazon Advertising

Amazon Ads can be a powerful tool for getting your book in front of readers who are already on the site. You can set up campaigns that target specific keywords or similar books, ensuring your book appears in relevant search results.


   - Tip: Start with a small daily budget and test different keywords. Amazon’s platform provides data on clicks and sales, allowing you to adjust your ads to maximize results.


2. Facebook and Instagram Ads

Facebook’s detailed targeting options let you advertise your book to readers based on demographics, interests, and behaviors. Instagram, integrated with Facebook Ads, provides a highly visual platform that’s ideal for book cover reveals and short trailers.


   - Tip: Create multiple ad variations with different images or headlines to see which resonates best with your audience. For instance, showcase the book cover in one ad and an intriguing quote from the book in another.


3. Book Promotion Sites

Many websites cater specifically to book promotions, like BookBub, Freebooksy, and Bargain Booksy. These platforms often have large audiences looking for discounted or free books, making them a good option for limited-time promotions.


   - Tip: Choose a site based on your book’s genre and pricing. BookBub, though more expensive, has an extensive audience, whereas smaller platforms like Freebooksy offer more budget-friendly options.


4. Google Ads

Google Ads allows you to target search terms related to your book, driving traffic to your website or book sales page. Ads can appear on Google search results or on relevant websites, reaching readers who are actively searching for new books.


   - Tip: Use long-tail keywords that describe your book's genre or themes. For example, instead of “thriller book,” try “psychological thriller with a strong female lead.”


5. Influencer Partnerships

Working with bookstagrammers (Instagram influencers focused on books) or bloggers in your genre can be a great way to reach a targeted audience. Many influencers offer paid promotion options, including reviews, social media shoutouts, or blog posts.


   - Tip: Choose influencers who have an engaged audience in your book’s genre. Provide them with all the materials they need to promote effectively, like high-quality book covers, synopses, and links.


Bonus Tips for Maximizing Your Book’s Visibility


-Optimize Your Book’s Metadata: Ensure your book’s title, description, and keywords are optimized for SEO, especially on platforms like Amazon. Keywords should reflect what readers are searching for (e.g., "cozy mystery with a female sleuth").


-Create a Book Trailer: A short video showcasing your book’s plot or theme can be a captivating way to engage potential readers. Share it across social media platforms and embed it on your website.


-Collect and Display Reviews: Positive reviews can influence readers’ purchasing decisions. Encourage readers to leave honest reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, or your website. Respond to reviews on Goodreads or your social media to show appreciation for reader feedback.


Conclusion


Both free and paid book advertising strategies offer distinct advantages, and a balanced approach can be highly effective. Start with free methods to build an audience and establish a presence. Once you're ready, invest in paid advertising to further expand your reach and visibility. By understanding your audience and combining these strategies, you can effectively promote your book, gain more readers, and grow your author brand.

Bruised Melodies: A Quotes/ Poetry Collection


Synopsis:

"No, I am not an artist

But sometimes, art spills through me

Sometimes, when it's all too much

I become a pained artist at that time."

Inside this book, you'll find a reflection of my life, experiences, thoughts, and feelings, captured through poems/quotes written during a challenging period in 2023.

These poems are infused with honest and heartfelt emotions, offering a glimpse into the magic of life as I have lived it.

They explore themes of love, heartbreak, mental health, and many other aspects of life.

Thank you for choosing this poetry collection. I hope you find something relatable and meaningful within these pages.