Meet the Author: Back Home by Tom Williams

Today we welcome Tom Williams to Meet the Author. We’re headed to Richmond in south west London to learn how dancing, the Andes and Buenos Aires come together with the Argentine tango to the beat of Tom Williams life.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I live in Richmond, in south west London. I street skate and ski and can dance a mean Argentine tango. I’ve spent a lot of my life writing very boring things for money (unless you’re in Customer Care, in which case ‘Dealing With Customer Complaints’ is really, really interesting). Now I’m writing for fun. I blog regularly, mainly about history, but quite a bit of random stuff as well (link below for my website).

In which genre do you write?

Historical fiction, although I’ve been experimenting with something contemporary.

How many published books do you have?

Six – three about a spy in the age of Napoleon and three set in the mid-19th century.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer and what ignited your author’s flame?

I’ve always wanted to write, but I found it very difficult to write fiction around other stuff, especially when I did a lot of non-fiction writing for my work. As I got older, I found that I could afford to work less and write more, so that’s what I did.

What is an interesting writing quirk you have, that we wouldn’t know by reading your biography?

I’m a spectacularly lazy writer. I spend far too long staring out of the window. I aim for a thousand words in a day, which really isn’t very many.

What does your ideal writing space look like?

What do you do when not writing or marketing your books?

I dance a lot of tango and do a little bit of dance teaching.

What is the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself through writing?

I have a very dark sense of humour.

What’s the strangest thing you’ve done or experienced to help create a scene or plot?

In ‘Burke in the Land of Silver’ my hero rides across the Andes rather too late in the year and is nearly caught in the snow. This is based on something that really happened but I just couldn’t visualise it so I went to Argentina and rode up into the Andes at a stupid time of year when there would be snow around. I spent three nights in an unheated stone hut at 3,000 metres and I have never been so cold in my life. In the end it contributed less than a page to the book but I wouldn’t have missed it for worlds.

Do you journal write or keep a personal diary?

Not regularly. I take a lot of photographs and use these instead of a diary.

What is the most amusing, crazy or inspiring thing that has ever happened to you?

I went to what I suppose you could call an immersive theatre performance in Buenos Aires. It was set in a famous bar and various people came in and recreated life in a famous tango bar during the Golden Age of tango. There were quite a lot of people in the bar but it slowly became clear to my wife and me that we were the only actual audience and everybody else was actors. It went on for hours and was most surreal experience of my life.

What do you miss about being a kid?

Nothing. Anybody who thinks that their childhood was the best days of their lives has done remarkably little since.

What’s the last movie you watched and why did you choose to watch it?

‘Blind Date’. (Un peu, beaucoup, aveuglément.) I like watching rom coms with my wife and French rom coms can be very good. We both loved this one.

A penguin knocks on your door and is wearing a sombrero. What does he say and why is he there?

“You really need to cut down on the drugs.” Because you really need to cut down on the drugs.

Do you believe things happen for a reason? Do you have an example from your own life to share why you believe this?

Some things happen for a reason. You work to make something happen and then it happens. Other things are completely random. A few friends have died over the years. In many cases it was totally unexpected and at a time when they were full of life and plans for the future. Stuff just happens. Life is not fair.

If you could ask your pet three questions, what would they be?

My pet ferret has been dead for years and I still can’t face owning another. So in the unlikely event of ever being able to talk to him, I’d have to ask him about the after-life.

What’s your favorite place to visit in your country and why?

Mid-Wales (if you could call that my country because I live in England). My wife lived there when she was a girl and we often go back. Where we stay is almost totally off grid (no main water, no landline phone, very limited Internet access, no TV). It’s beautiful and peaceful and I always feel better for being there. There are some photos on my website at (link for my website below).

Tell us about your most recent book and where we can find it.

The last book I had published was ‘Back Home’ which completes my cycle of three books about a mid-Victorian character whose adventures take him into the real-life worlds of the white ruler of Borneo (in ‘The White Rajah’) and the Indian Mutiny (‘Cawnpore’). It completes the trilogy but it stands alone if you just want to read a book set in London in 1859 – a world which had astonishing parallels with the England of today.

There are a couple more books about James Burke which are awaiting publication.

Thank you Tom for being a part of Meeting the Authors. It was a whirlwind dance doing the interview tango with you. – Camilla

Learn more about Tom Williams and where to purchase to the book:

Tom Williams website: https://tomwilliamsauthor.co.uk

UK Amazon: https://amzn.to/2WxxEmf

US Amazon: https://amzn.to/2WDgYJN

In America it’s distributed through Simon & Schuster: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Back-Home/Tom-Williams/9781682994146

Tom on Twitter: @TomCW99

Tom on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTomWilliams/

If it feels right and you have the time (and you enjoy the interview) please like or comment or share it. The nature of the online world … the more eyes that see it the more it will spread and benefit the author and the website! Thank you!

If it feels right and you are inspired to do so, I would be deeply grateful if you’d like to “Buy Me a Coffee” here … Camilla – Host of Meeting the Authors …

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Meet the Author: Saints and Curses by Alexis Lantgen

Today we welcome Alexis Lantgen and travel to the state of Texas in the United States. Here we’ll learn how Renaissance Faires, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Redwood National Forest and Captain Marvel come together to create the symphony of Alexis Lantgen. Grab your cape and let’s go …

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m a writer, teacher, and classical musician (I play violin and viola in a local symphony orchestra). I love Renaissance Faires and all things science fiction and fantasy.

My short stories have appeared in the Gallery of Curiosities, Phantaxis, Red Sun Magazine, and Swords and Sorcery Magazine, and I have one coming out in the May 2019 issue of Kzine as well. I’ve also written nonfiction articles for Renaissance Magazine.

I’m married and I have two children, a beautiful and spirited five-year-old daughter and a toddler son. I live in the United States, inTexas.

How many published books do you have?

I have two published books right now. My first book, Sapience, is a collection of science fiction short stories. It’s pretty dark in tone, something you might enjoy if you like Black Mirror or EdgarAllen Poe.

My second book, Saints and Curses, is a collection of fantasy short stories. While some of these stories are pretty dark, there are a few that are much more lighthearted and funny. Think elves and magic coffee

If you could have a fantasy tea or coffee date with an author or famous person from the pastor present, who would it be and what would you ask them?

I would meet Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and I’d ask him to improvise at the piano. Or ask if he could finally finish his Requiem Mass!

Do you journal write or keep a personal diary? Has this helped with your published writings?If so, how?

Yes, although I don’t write in it everyday. I think it helps to jot down ideas as often as they come to me, even if I’m not sure I’ll ever develop it into anything. I also think it can help me vent–I write in my journals when I’m angry or sad sometimes, and I don’t want to take it out on anyone else. It’s very cathartic, because just writing down my feelings or my problems can help me see solutions or ideas I didn’t have before. It clears my mind.

What’s the last movie you watched and why did you choose to watch it?

The last movie I watched was Captain Marvel. I took my daughter to see it so we could spend some time together, just the two of us. I loved the movie! I thought it was a powerful story, and I enjoyed all the little twists and watching Carol Danvers discover who she really is. Also, the kitty!

Which of your personality traits has been most useful and why?

Probably my stubborn determination. I’m not someone that stops once I’ve got something I want to achieve, at least not until I’ve beaten myself bloody trying to see it through. I’ll admit it can be a problematic trait sometimes–I think I have a touch of the martyr in me, so I probably hold on to things long after I should have let it go. But I think it also means I tend to succeed where lots of other people would have given up (though those people may very well be happier and more sane than me).

What’s your favorite place to visit in your country and why?

My family went on an incredible trip to the Redwoods National Park in California. Seeing the redwood forest–they’re the tallest trees on Earth, and it’s impossible to convey their majesty. It was the most magical place I’ve ever been, and I loved it. I want to go back again someday, and show the redwoods to my children.

Blurb for my newest book, Saints and Curses:

Explore worlds of light and dark, where magical whimsy and grim tidings alike are painted across the tapestry of human experience.Indulge in tales of the fantastical where enchantments are bought and sold at the local corner store,your morning latte gives you special abilities, and you might just adopt a murderous, vampiric cat. Your child might be stolen away in the night and replaced with an ancient, evil creature of the fae, waves of plague-ridden vermin consume everything, and only a saint could hope to turn the tide. These stories and more await you, if you dare to turn the page…

Thank you Alexis Lantgen for stopping by Meeting the Authors. It was great fun to learn about a portion of the symphony of your life.

Find out more about Alexis and her books:

US Kindle: https://amzn.to/2EzNIcF

UK Amazon: https://amzn.to/2HWoaaP

Website: https://www.lunarianpress.com/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/alexislantgen

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexislantgenauthor/

If it feels right and you have the time (and you enjoy the interview) please like or comment or share it. The nature of the online world … the more eyes that see it the more it will spread and benefit the author and the website! Thank you!

Meet the Author: Anne by Zarina Macha

Today we welcome Zarina Macha as we travel to North London to learn how cats, swimming and empathy come together to form the beat of Zarina’s life. Grab your dancin’ shoes … Let’s go …

Tell us a bit about yourself.

Hey there! I am a musician, author and blogger born and raised in North London, UK. Studied Songwriting and Creative Artistry at uni and front a funk-rock trio band called ‘Zarina and The Elements’ with an EP titled ‘Fire’ out on digital music platforms. I’m currently focusing on my writing: have published two books and have a third just out yesterday – “Anne”!

In which genre do you write?

Contemporary YA and poetry.

My first book, ‘Every Last Psycho: A Collection of Two Novellas’ is dark upper-young-adult fiction.

My second, ‘Art is a Waste of Time’ is a collection of poems I published as a nice subsidiary to my fiction (turned out to be a good investment as I didn’t pay to get my poems edited unlike my fiction, and sell them a lot at poetry events!)

The third, ‘Anne’, is coming-of-age YA.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer and what ignited your author’s flame?

God, I can’t remember. My parents say I always loved to write little notes and stories from when I could use a pen. My mum bought me a diary at the age of six, and my dad is a writer and columnist for a major newspaper in Tanzania, so it runs in the blood.

What would you choose as your mascot, spirit animal, or avatar and why?

Cats have always been my favourite animal, and I feel very similar to them: I love to sleep, tend to stare and drift off into space a lot, fuss a lot over grooming and personal hygiene, and I’m a natural ‘loner’, flitting in-and-out of social groups. So yeah, cats are now and always my spirit animal.

What do you do when not writing or marketing your books?

I love to swim. Try and go at least once a week in my local outdoor swimming pool; is very refreshing and always makes me feel great. I read a lot of course; I’m not a super-fast reader; my yearly average is 20-30 books per year. Also watch a lot of movies and TV shows, they give me inspiration. And playing my guitar and listening to music, naturally – great way to unwind.

If you could have a fantasy tea or coffee date with an author or famous person from the past or present, who would it be and what would you ask them?

Stephen King is a massive literary inspiration for me, and just seems like an overall cool and funny guy. Would be nice to just chat to him about the writing process and the overwhelming desire to push out loads of stories. He’s super prolific and very experienced so I think I would gain a lot from talking to him.

You are about to speak publicly to a group and read from your latest book. What song do you listen to before speaking?

Probably ‘Rock the Boat’ by Aaliyah; it’s very soothing and mellow and always takes me to a place of tranquillity. It’s a simple song but has a nice consistent beat; it’s not a ‘great’ song by any means, it’s not musically complex or even that interesting, which is exactly why it helps to calm me down.

If you were trapped in a cartoon world from your childhood, which one would you choose and why?

Totally Spies was one of my favourite shows as a kid and I still love it now and occasionally watch episodes on YouTube. I would love to join Clover, Sam and Alexas a fourth spy and go have crazy adventures with them donning glamorous gadgets. I love that they’re badass but also pretty and girly at the same time; shows you can be feminine and powerful!

What’s the last movie you watched and why did you choose to watch it?

Not a movie but THE LAST EPISODE OF GAME OF THRONES; you’ve probably seen the stuff circulating online about it. I loved it and it’s had an enormous impact on me as a writer and as a person, the way it’s shaped my worldview and strengthened my love for stories even more. I adored the episode and cried; thought it the perfect end to the series.

Do you believe things happen for a reason? Do you have an example from your own life to share why you believe this?

Yes. I think things happen as a way either to test us, challenge us or highlight the best of ourselves. I had a drinking problem a few years ago and having come out of it, I’ve gained lots of resilience and emotional strength since dealing with it and learned I’m a lot stronger and more level-headed than I give myself credit for. I’ve learned to handle myself better through my recovery program and accept that we’re all part of a greater sense of oneness and being, and that everything that happens in our lives teaches us something.

Which of your personality traits has been most useful and why?

Regarding my creative work, the fact that I have a strong work ethic and determination has been very useful. When I’m passionate about a project I see it through and give it all my attention, which has helped me to achieve a lot in a short space of time.

Having a lot of empathy for others is also important; when I was at uni we were told that the most important trait in the music/arts business is to be a good person and get along well with people. No one does everything alone and how you treat those you work with does make a big difference. If you’re reliable, straightforward and polite, it makes doing business that much easier. I firmly believe in mutual support; you help me, I’ll help you.

Tell us about your most recent book and where we can find it.

My coming-of-age novel ‘Anne’ came out on June 3rd .

It’s available in ebook and paperback format.

Thanks for stopping by Meeting the Authors Zarina! It was wonderful to learn more about you and your world.

Learn more about Zarina and where to purchase the book:

UK Kindle: https://amzn.to/2Mb4YeR

US Kindle: https://amzn.to/2YNiwOT

UK Amazon: https://amzn.to/2EznOGa

US Amazon: https://amzn.to/2WorNzA

Website: https://www.zarinamacha.co.uk

Goodreads profile: https://www.goodreads.com/zarinamacha

Fiverr profile: https://www.fiverr.com/zarinamacha

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/zarinawriter

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zarinamacha

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/zarinamacha

If it feels right and you have the time (and you enjoy the interview) please like or comment or share it. The nature of the online world … the more eyes that see it the more it will spread and benefit the author and the website! Thank you!

Meet the Author: Spirits of Vengeance: The Stone of Spirits by Andrew John Rainnie

Today we welcome Andrew John Rainnie as we travel to Glasgow, Scotland to learn how traveling the world, a red panda and Thundercats have come together as part of Andrew’s life. Grab your boomerang and let’s go …

Tell us a bit about yourself.

My name is Andrew John Rainnie, and I’m from Glasgow, Scotland. I’m a writer, filmmaker, dreamer and gamer. I’m a strong advocate for animal rights and an independent Scotland.

In which genre do you write?

My first attempt at publishing a novel was actually a non-fiction travel blog I kept when I was traveling round the world. My fiction has so far been epic fantasy, but I’m hoping try different genres in the future. I have been jotting down ideas for a stream of consciousness drama story for a few years, and also have loose plans for an urban fantasy book series.

I also write screenplays, usually in the horror/thriller genre. I like the challenge of looking at a genre and working out how to write a story within the conventions of what an audience/reader expects, but also subverting those to better the story.

How many published books do you have?

Technically two! I self-published my travel blog, My Right Leg Is Tastier Than My Left, back in 2013, I think (it’s not on sale now as I’m planning on doing something different with it). I was just curious as to how the whole self-publishing process worked and had a wealth of material from traveling for a year.

I then self-published Spirits of Vengeance: The Stone of Spirits in 2014. It was the first book in a planned trilogy.

After that I also made a book of short stories available based in that world called Tales of Vengeance. Then while working on the sequel, the first book got picked up by a publisher along with the second book. It was due out last year but I was making a short film, getting married and moving house, while also trying to do significant redrafts. It is almost in a state I am happy with, so hopefully it will be published this year.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer and what ignited your author’s flame?

From a very young age. I used to write short stories all the time as a child, and not just a page or two, but like 10 page epic tales. My school teachers used to hate me because when we were given a writing task, I would hand in several pages more than anyone else.

What is an interesting writing quirk you have, that we wouldn’t know by reading your biography?

I struggle to write at a computer sometimes. I find sometimes there’s a bit of a fug, although IU have since acquired a mechanical keyboard which makes it sound like you are using a typewriter.

But if I find there is a problem with the flow of ideas, I’ll just sit down with a pad of paper and a pen and write freeform for an hour. It does mean I then have to type those notes up, but I find switching between the two keeps my ideas fresh. I also like to drop my friends’ names in as minor characters. There are at least four in the new book!

What would you choose as your mascot, spirit animal, or avatar and why?

Good question! I am very tempted to say a dog (because I love dogs and yet live with two cats) but I think probably a red panda. They are very playful and creative.

What does your ideal writing space look like?

Well we just moved home and I claimed one of the smaller rooms as my own personal office, so I have a big wide desk populated by toys and notes and pens. I have a boomerang and a Frisbee and a toy space gun all hanging on the wall, all mementos from my travels. Hopefully I’ll get more artwork up on the bare walls soon.

What are you currently reading?

I am currently working my way through Chuck Wendig’s Star Wars: Aftermath trilogy. I’m a few chapters from the end of the first book, so will move on to Life Debt afterwards. I’m hoping to finish them before The Rise of Skywalker hits in December(I don’t get a lot of reading time).

What do you do when not writing or marketing your books?

I don’t have much of a life anymore. I work full time, I have another job writing copy, I have a couple of screenwriting commissions. I also make films and promo videos. My wife rarely sees me.

When I get a spare five minutes, I love nothing more than playing video games. I just love disappearing into these rich worlds filled with colourful characters and stories. I was halfway through the new God of War before we moved house, but I’m on a bit of a video games ban until I finish the new book. My pile of unplayed video games almost rivals my pile of unread books!

If you could have a fantasy tea or coffee date with an author or famous person from the past or present, who would it be and what would you ask them?

Terry Pratchett. I renamed a character in the second book as a small tribute to him. He managed to create several series of books, especially the Discworld, that told very human stories dealing with contemporary issues, while based in this absurd fantasy world. And it’s a credit to his storytelling and world building that it works so well over 40 books.

I read an interview with him where he told a story about someone asking him what was the first thing he figured out when creating a city like Anhk-Morpork, and they were disappointed when he answered that he works out where the water comes in and the sh** flows out. But that’s how you build worlds. You make sure they work within the logic of the world.

I learned a lot from my decades wandering the Discworld, but I would have loved to have had the opportunity to sit down with him over a beer and pick that fantastic brain of his.

What is the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself through writing?

That I am my own worst enemy. My background is in screenwriting, so I try and plot or structure as much of the books as I can before starting to actually write it. But sometimes I’ll get bogged down in the detail, or conversely leave a very vague plot point because I haven’t quite worked it out, and when I come to write that chapter it’s like hitting a road bump on a skateboard going at 50 miles an hour.

I am completely thrown off and have to sit and rework it based on my characters and how I think they would act or react to the situation. Yet, if you plot too much, it can sometimes kill the creativity, so it’s about finding that balance.

What’s the strangest thing you’ve done or experienced to help create a scene or plot?

I do all sorts. I like trying different writing techniques, so for one story I recorded me speaking in the character’s voice, like a stream of conscious narrative. For Spirits ofVengeance, I remember there was a fight scene across a battlefield, so I had to work it out using Lego toys (I collect Lego) because it was just so confusing.

Do you journal write or keep a personal diary? Has this helped with your published writings? If so, how?

Apart from when I was traveling, no. I try and write a minimum of 3000 words a day. Keeping a diary would just add to that.

What is the most amusing, crazy or inspiring thing that has ever happened to you?

I have been very lucky in my life, and could answer this question a million different ways. I was inspired a lot when I traveled the world, seeing the Earth, this planet that we live on, all of us, together. I loved meeting new people, experiencing new cultures. I think if everyone traveled, the world would be a much better place. I was traveling on my own, and so many people showed me so much kindness (I think maybe everyone thought I was having a mid-life crisis) but it makes me well with tears just thinking about it.

Anyway, you’re looking for a specific example. I’ve already mentioned how I adored Terry Pratchett, so here’s a cool story. I was in a Japanese restaurant in Glasgow with several of my friends. One of my friends Steve was visiting from Japan where he was teaching English, so obviously we took him and his Japanese girlfriend to a Scottish Japanese restaurant. It’s one of these restaurants with long tables and benches.

So our party sits down, there’s maybe 10 of us, and just as I sit I look at the next table, and there is a guy sitting there that looks the double of Terry Pratchett, so much so I do a double take. I mentioned his to my friends who glanced over and they were said no, it’s not him, he’s not got his signature hat on.

So we continue with our meal, while this man who may or may not be my favourite author gets up and leaves with the two people he was sitting with. They pay for their meal and then he goes to the coat stand in the corner and picks up his hat, and it was Terry Pratchett! There had been a sci-fi convention in Glasgow that weekend and he was one of the guests.I thought that was cool.

You are about to speak publicly to a group and read from your latest book. What song do you listen to before speaking? Or, what do you do to prepare yourself?

I hire an impersonator! In the party we had for the first book launch, I had someone shout a page number and read that page, which was unfortunately as it had a lot of difficult character names, so maybe next time I choose the page beforehand.

What do you miss about being a kid?

The sheer lack of stress, or worry. I mean, when you are a kid, you are fearless. I mean I was quite timid as a child (my parents would probably argue otherwise) but I think there’s an innocence and naivety that allows you to go do stupid things regardless of the consequences. As an adult, you’re like “I would love to have this cake but I also have bills to pay.” I guess I miss the freedom of it, or perhaps the sense of adventure, of the unknown, because everything is unknown.

If you were trapped in a cartoon world from your childhood, which one would you choose and why?

I instinctively want to say Thundercats, but I have actually re-watched them recently and they have not aged well at all. But what has I guess? I think I like the mythology of it rather than the show itself. Your brain remembers the sweeping arcs and major plot points, but forgets there was an episode where everyone was tripping on some psychotropic plant or fighting robot-pirates.

If you could turn into one of your characters for a day, which one would it be and why, what would you do?

I’d probably turn into Innes Vangar. He’s a former soldier turned marauder. He’s sharp tongued, loves a drink, and runs towards danger. He’d have an amazing night out in Glasgow!

What’s the last movie you watched and why did you choose to watch it?

The last move I saw was Detective Pikachu, and pretty much because I love Ryan Reynolds. For my sins, I have never played a Pokemon game (I probably will soon as there is a new one coming out for the Nintendo Switch), but yeah, it was enjoyable fun.

A penguin knocks on your door and is wearing a sombrero. What does he say and why is he there?

“Hey gringo.” I then go get my sombrero (I genuinely have one) and we go the nearest Mexican restaurant to play in our animal-themed mariachi band with an alpaca and a chameleon.

Do you believe things happen for a reason? Do you have an example from your own life to share why you believe this?

Sometimes I do, sometimes I don’t. I’m not religious (not in the way I think there’s a big beardy guy planning or lives), but I think things do sometimes happen for a reason, and it is up to us to take those opportunities when presented. Other times I think things happen because you put in the hard work. But still, I’ve had my fair share of coincidences to believe there is a pattern within the chaos.

An example – I was traveling in New Zealand on a bus tour, and you kind of get to know everyone straight away. I met these two lovely Welsh girls and must have been in their company for a couple of weeks when they were looking through their old photos, and spotted me. We’d been sitting next to one another on a flight from Singapore to Australia two months beforehand.

If you could ask your pet three questions, what would they be?

1. What the f*** do you want?
2. Why do you get pissing on the carpet?
3. Why don’t you love me?

Which of your personality traits has been most useful and why?

Perseverance. There’s a certain stereotype that Scottish people are hard-working, and I’m the perfect example of it. I just don’t know how to stop doing something until it is done. I rarely quit.

What’s your favorite place to visit in your country and why?

In my country? So many places! I live in Glasgow, which is to me one of the most amazing cities in the world. We just have a great culture and we’re a very artistic city. But other than Glasgow, I’d say the Highlands. Scotland has a lot of mountain ranges, but the Cairngorms are just amazing. If you visit the town of Aviemore, there is a road that takes you to the visitor centre, going past Glenmore Forest and Loch Morlich which has a lovely sandy beach. It’s beautiful.

Describe the perfect solo date you’d take yourself on … where, time of day,weather, place, etc.

Sunny day. Brunch at Brewdog Berlin.

Tell us about your most recent book and where we can find it.

I’m just finishing off the second book in the Spirits of Vengeance saga, called The Assassin of Araneque, and plotting the final book, The Rise of Rakkatoa.

However, the first book in the series, Spirits of Vengeance: The Stone of Spirits, is available online at sites listed below.

About the book:

It tells the story of Kamina Elloeth, a young tree elf who is thrust from the safety of her forest home on an epic adventure with a mysterious ranger and her ghostly brother.

I really hope you enjoy reading it and the sequels!

Thank you Andrew for being a part of Meeting the Authors and sharing a bit about you and your writing life. –Camilla

Where to purchase the book:

UK Amazon: https://amzn.to/2JEaAfr

US Amazon: https://amzn.to/2YIl4hk

Blackwells: https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/Spirits-of-Vengeance-by-Rainnie-Andrew/9781911424307

Waterstones: https://www.waterstones.com/book/spirits-of-vengeance/andrew-rainnie/9781911424307

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/spirits-of-vengeance-andrew-john-rainnie/1120792102

If it feels right and you have the time (and you enjoy the interview) please like or comment or share it. The nature of the online world … the more eyes that see it the more it will spread and benefit the author and the website! Thank you!

 

Meet the Author: The Hunt by Deidre-Ann Anderson

Today we welcome Deidre-Ann Anderson and travel to Jamaica to learn how culinary school, a jaguar, and Sydney Sheldon come together to create life’s romantic recipe for Deidre-Ann. Let’s get cookin’ …

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I am a Jamaican author, who loves to write, read, cook, play video games, and fantasize about exciting stories. I am also a proud culinary school graduate who ghost writes cookbooks and nutritional content.

In which genre do you write?

I currently write Romance and Cookbooks.

How many published books do you have?

I have 1 Romance novel currently, along with a few small cookbooks that I published a long time ago.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer, and what ignited your author’s flame?

I knew I wanted to write from a very young age. I was a natural storyteller, telling fairytales and extreme stories to the detriment of my friends and parents. Haha, what can I say? They were always entertained.

What is an interesting writing quirk you have, that we wouldn’t know by reading your biography?

When I write, I become a whole different person, so much so that my husband has to do a temperature check, before saying anything to me.

What would you choose as your mascot, spirit animal, or avatar, and why?

A jaguar, they are beautiful on the outside and seems calm from a far but completely transforms if disturbed when they are focused.

What does your ideal writing space look like?

A small enclosed room with a vision board, workstation, and computer.

What are you currently reading?

I am currently reading “The Mister” by E.L. James.

What do you do when not writing or marketing your books?

I play video games, hang with my husband, chat with friends, check in with my family, and sleep.

If you could have a fantasy tea or coffee date with an author or famous person from the past or present, who would it be, and what would you ask them?

I would love love love to have a sit down with Sidney Sheldon. He was an amazing writer, who had the ability to hook you into a story from the very first page and keep you glued to the end. It would have been amaze-beans to be able to pick his brain. May his soul rest in peace.

What is the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself through writing?

I have learned that I am a potty mouth when I write, which is the complete opposite of who I am in real life.

Tell us about your most recent book and where we can find it.

My debut Romance novel, The Hunt: An Interracial Love Story was released onMay 9th , 2019, and it is currently available in both eBook and Paperback onAmazon.

The book is a Bwwm Romance that follows a sassy Jamaican woman and a drug dealer from New York. It is the first installation of the Consumed by Heat Series that promises a delicious mix of crime, love, sex, and murder.

Thank you for allowing me to share my crazy mind with you!

************************************

Deidre-Ann Anderson is a Jamaican author, and full-time freelance writer, who firmly believes that with hard work and dedication, anyone can make a living from what they enjoy. She has been a storyteller for most her life; she currently specializes in Romance (in the fictional realm) and Culinary/Nutritional content (in Non-Fiction).

The Consumed by Heat Trilogy is her debut Romance series, and she is excited to share the rigorous love story of Alex and Kris.

Book Blurb:

She was a Jamaican firecracker. He was the head of the largest drug-dealing ring in New York. Neither of them was prepared for what would happen when both worlds collide. A gripping tale of romance, sex, and murder, from the Enthusiastic Romance Author of The Consumed by Heat Series, Deidre – Ann Anderson.

When Alexander Heat meets sexy, sassy Kristine, he is confident his hunt to make her his would be an easy one. But as the two of them embark on an intense affair, Alexander quickly realizes that this hunt will uproot his life. A loved one dies. A ghost appears from the past. And as a vicious cyclone of love threatens to disband everything they have built; Kristine and Alexander are forced to decide …Is the hunt going to lead to a life of bliss – or will it end in a bed of misery?

Thank you to Deidra-Ann Anderson for stopping by and sharing a few of the ingredients of her life recipe! –Camilla

Learn more about Deidra-Ann Anderson and where to purchase the book:

US Kindle and Amazon paperback: https://amzn.to/2wlIuNm

Note from Deidra-Ann: Be sure to leave an honest review, as your feedback really helps me perfect my craft.

To find out more about books, news and more, and to sign up to Dee’s Writing Corner, visit my Author Website: https://www.deidreannanderson.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorDeidreAnn

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dee_deeandy

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDeidreAnnAnderson

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Deidre-Ann-Anderson/e/B00Q3YA8VS

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/authordeidreannanderson

Meet the Author: Where Would You Fly and Other Magical Stories by Lillian Darnell

Today we welcome Lillian Darnell as we travel to Reno, Nevada USA to learn how nature, lions and stairs are part of the magic of Lillian’s life. Grab your fairy wings and your spell book …

What types of stories are in “Where Would You Fly”?

The types of stories in “Where Would You Fly” are poetry, songs, riddles, fictional stories, and fantasy stories.

In which genre do you write?

I write Fantasy, Poetry and Fiction. Sometimes I will write about trips to cities as well.

How many published books do you have?

I have published 1 magical book with the help of my mother Camilla.

What inspires your writing?

Nature, reading, something I say, food, holidays, and more when I can’t think of something to write. Other times though, my writing flows through like a river.

What message would you like readers to take away from your collection of tales, legends, and poems?

I would like my readers to take away from my tales, legends, poems to enjoy nature, be yourself, enjoy life, and enjoy reading as much as you can too.

Is there a particular author or authors that inspire you?

Camilla Downs (my mother), Daisy Meadows, Helen Perelman, and L.M. Montgomery are the authors who inspire me a lot.

Are you still writing? If so, what types of stories do you write?

Yes, I still write. The types of stories I write now are mostly historical and fantasy stories on my blog which is https://www.lilliandarnell.com/.

What is your favorite story that is in “Where Would You Fly”?

My favorite is all my stories in the book but if I had to choose just one, I would choose the story Princess Beauty.

What would you choose as your mascot, spirit animal, or avatar and why?

I would choose lion or a snake as a spirit animal because I act fierce and hyper sometimes but other times I’m quiet like a snake.

What does your ideal writing space look like?

My ideal writing space is a writing desk with a computer, pens, pencils, piles of books, and erasers.

What are you currently reading?

I just finished “The Eyes of The Unicorn” by Teresa Bateman and “Meg, Joe, Beth Amy The Story of Little Women And Why It Still Matters” by Anne Boyd Sioux. I’m currently reading “Sea Monster” by Jordan Quinn which is part of a series called The Kingdom of Wrenly.

What do you do when not writing or marketing your books?

I paint, read, draw, be silly, hang out with family when I’m not writing.

If you could have a fantasy tea or coffee date with an author or famous person from the past or present, who would it be and what would you ask them?

I would choose Louisa May Alcott or Robert Frost. I would ask, “What’s your favorite story? ” to Louisa May Alcott or I would ask, “What’s your favorite thing about living in New Hampshire? ” to Robert Frost.

What is the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself through writing?

The most surprising thing that I learned about myself through writing is that I’m humorous.

Do you journal write or keep a personal diary? Has this helped with your published writings? If so, how?

I used to journal write but I hope to journal write again. The journal writings haven’t helped with my book.

What is the most amusing, crazy or inspiring thing that has ever happened to you?

Accomplishing going up and down stairs in San Antonio, TX is the most inspiring and crazy thing that has happened to me so far.

If you could turn into one of your characters for a day, which one would it be and why, what would you do? 

I would turn into Princess Britney for a day because she had a magical life.

What’s the last movie you watched and why did you choose to watch it?

The last movie I watched was Mary Poppins Returns. I chose to watch it because it sounded intriguing and inspiring from the trailer.

A penguin knocks on your door and is wearing a sombrero. What does he say and why is he there?

The penguin that was wearing a sombrero said in a Mexican accent, “Yum, do I smell nachos with Mexican-Italian cheese sauce?”

Do you believe things happen for a reason? Do you have an example from your own life to share why you believe this?

Yes, I believe things happen for a reason. Yes, I do have an example. One time I had a vision-like dream of one of my friends and I sitting on a bench in a school-like place and then I woke up. I found out that she was going to the same conference almost 3 months later.

Which of your personality traits has been most useful and why?

My humor, my love of nature, creativity, and my imagination have been very useful personality traits.

What’s your favorite place to visit in your country and why?

I like to go to a conference every summer in a different city. As of so far, Savannah and Salt Lake City are my favorite cities.

Lillian Darnell is 17 years old. She likes to read, draw, paint, write, track weather and enjoys being in nature. She has 18p- which is a chromosome difference that affects 1 in every 56, 000 people.

Thank you Lillian for joining us today! It was magical learning more about you. –Camilla

Here’s a bit about the book:

Welcome to the radiant imagination of Lillian Darnell, a wonderful and unique human being, the kind who comes around only once in every 56,000 births, as she is missing the short arm of her 18th chromosome.

Leave this reality behind and enter enchanted lands awash in mysteries, happy endings, adventures, and inspiration. Come within and discover heartwarming and beautiful tales, woven with love and magic, brought forth from the imagination of a young woman with a different perspective. Lose yourself in wondrous adventures as you follow courageous, enchanting characters, kind animals and plant life, and graceful Mother Nature.

The delightful tales, legends, and poems within these pages were written by Lillian Darnell between the ages of four and fifteen. The stories and poems are mostly edited for spelling and grammar, yet the bulk of the stories remain as she originally wrote and published them to include a few grammatical errors and made up words.

Will a girls dream of becoming a princess come true?
How can sad, mischievous, fearful animals help humans feel emotions?
How did the world come to have color?

(Go here to view the interactive Google Pin Map of Where the Book Has Flown So Far)

“You can’t help but feel happy and be inspired while reading this book. Lillian’s stories jump straight out of her heart and onto the pages in an authentic, innocent, and loving way. The world needs more positivity and happiness and her stories are bursting with both. Thank you Lillian!” -G. Brian Benson – Award-winning and best-selling author, actor and TEDx speaker.

“Let your imagination be taken away with Lillian Darnell’s writings and allow yourself to be transported to places where anything is possible with love, joy and a touch of inspiration. This collection is born from a young woman with a unique perspective on how our world could be – immerse yourself and come, see the world through Lillian’s eyes.” -Dr Veronica Wain – Award winning filmmaker, Academic, Author, Disability Advocate

“Although all of us who love fairies understand that children, with their vivid imaginations, are closer to magic than any of us, we all yearn to retain that childlike sense of wonder. Lillian Darnell’s writings are a welcome reminder of what is possible when you dream big, and accept no limitations.” – Grace Nuth, Senior Editor – Faerie Magazine

Book Trailer:

**Artist: Nazar Rybak
Title: Children Fun Times
https://www.hooksounds.com

Sample story from the book:

TRUTHFUL ART – A CHINESE LEGEND

Way back in the 1920s there was a lady in her mid-twenties who thought, “The art I have in my mind will eventually happen soon.” Her name was Artful. Three days later she created three paintings named Liletta, Tinletta, and Ciletta.

When Artful wasn’t around the three paintings talked about for whom they were thought to be made. One day Artful thought she had heard the three paintings talk, but she thinks that she heard nothing.

After that day, she hid behind a door and listened. Then she walked in and asked them about what they were talking. So they lied then. Artful had thought, “What can I do to make them truthful paintings?”

Just then a magical creature had appeared and it told Artful to take as many wishes as she could take. So three seconds later, they told the truth to Artful who explained the whole thing to them.

Artful was so pleased that she entered all three of the paintings in an art contest. Five days later, they won first prize and Artful was amazed.

To this day, they can be seen in art museums or an art book.

(Written February 2014 at 13-years-old)

  • Paperback: 230 pages
  • Publisher: Loving Kindness Books (January 7, 2018)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-13: 978-0980056839

Where to purchase the book and other links:

US Amazon: https://amzn.to/2VBnEJ2

UK Amazon: https://amzn.to/30fKmoK

France Amazon: https://amzn.to/2JxTVcp

Canada Amazon: https://amzn.to/2Yniw7X

Author Signed Copy: https://wherewouldyoufly.com/

Lillian Darnell’s website: https://lilliandarnell.com/

Chromosome 18 Registry: https://www.chromosome18.org/