When “She”, aka my owner, is pretending to write and ignoring me, I still have my dill pickle.
An Interview with Tricia La Rochelle
Since she was a little girl, award-winning author Tricia T. LaRochelle has been obsessed with tragic love stories. No beach reads for her. Bring on the grit with a double side of turmoil. She likes to feel the character’s anguish as they fight to overcome obstacles to be together. Growing up in central Vermont, she has seen her share of tragedy but remains a hopeful romantic.
Tricia entered Sun in My Heart in the 2024 Readers’ Favorite Contest for New Adult Fiction. A couple of weeks ago, she learned that Sun in My Heart had won their Bronze Medal for New Adult Fiction.
This is not where this story ends. The Readers’ Favorite also gives out over a hundred thousand dollars in prizes to the winners, which includes the award where they choose ten books out of the eight hundred-plus winners that they feel would be best suited for making into a film. (The film house they work with tells them what criteria they are looking for). Sun in My Heart was chosen as one of those ten books.
Although not chosen to go forward as a film, Sun in My Heart also won a Bronze Medal in the 2024 Global Book Awards.
Are you a pantster or a plotter? I have always been a pantser type of writer. I tend to dream up a story and then organize it in my mind. I also tend to imagine the ending first. I’m not sure why that is. And then I imagine the beginning, which I start putting down on paper. After that, I wait for the next chapter or scene to hit me until the process takes over and the story comes pouring out of me.
Describe your best writing day? My best writing day is when I get so lost in my writing, I feel as though I’ve taken a trip in my mind. My fingers work of their own volition. It is the very best a writer can ask for.
Johanna Nauraine is an Asian American writer who has been a serious student of fiction, nonfiction and poetry for decades. Her work has been published in Bright Flash Literary Review, Bristol Noir, ASP Publishing, Vol. 11, Witcraft, The Pure Slush Anthology on Loss, Vol. 9, Discretionary Love, Bar Bar, Muse Pie Press, The Stray Branch, Winter, 2024. She is a psychotherapist in private practice who lives on the shores of Lake Michigan.
“The great defect of craft-driven programs is that they ignore the writer’s inner process. Creativity, the inner process of imagination, is not discussed.” From Narrative Design by Madison Smartt Bell.
I’ve been a serious writer for most of my life and have participated in numerous writers conferences, groups and writing workshops, yet this subject – creativity and imagination – are almost never spoken of. It’s as if these are a given. Yet many writers, myself included, go through long fallow periods, where nothing moves us to sit down and confront the empty page.
I believe creativity and imagination are somewhat ephemeral. For me, the impetus to write is often sparked by experiences in nature, observations or interactions with people, awareness and exploration of my own emotional life or startling experiences that require closer examination.
Another rich source of creative and imaginative material comes from the unconscious. Many writers, write work based on memorable dreams. One of the tricks of using this resource is to get the ideas written down quickly. This enables you to capture their visceral essence.
Another source of imaginative or creative inspiration, comes from reading the work of other great writers. There have been occasions when I’ve been awake for hours after reading the work of gifted writers. Excitement about another writer’s work, frequently motivates me to engage in my own work.
I believe, the most memorable writing derives from taking risks, breaking the rules, introducing an idea, image, metaphor, thought, piece of dialogue, action or juxtaposition that is unexpected. Such writing startles the reader to reconsider their perspective of a character, their perceptions of the world or creates new insight into their own experience.
I have also been a singer, composer and musician for many years. Those of you who participate in other art forms may find, these additional creative outlets, fuel your writing. There have been times when writing words seemed fused with musical notes, sounds or phrases.
Any thoughts, fellow writers? What sparks your creativity and imagination? I’d love to hear from you!
An Editor’s Tale of Fixing a Plot Hole with Jennie Rosenblum
Jennie Rosenblum has been an independent editor for small publishers and indie authors. Since 2014, she has been happily self-employed helping authors. Over the next few months, she will be sharing guest columns here. Feel free to reach out to her at www.jenniereads.com.
As an editor, I consider myself the story’s first reader—a stand-in for the audience, tasked with spotting anything that could trip them up. Authors bring beautifully crafted worlds, characters, and plots, but even the best stories sometimes have small gaps that could shake a reader’s trust. One such moment happened recently with a manuscript I was editing.
The story was compelling, with a subplot about two characters who lost touch for over a decade only to reconnect. Their reunion was full of emotional layers, including a twist: despite their years apart, one had quietly kept tabs on the other, tracking their successes and struggles without their knowledge.
It was an intriguing dynamic, but by the end, one question nagged at me: How exactly had they kept up with the other all these years? The manuscript offered no clues, and readers would notice. Without context, the behavior appeared overly convenient—or, worse, a little creepy.
I flagged the issue in my notes, but it felt too important to leave it there. When I asked the author, “So one character has been keeping tabs on the other for years, right?”
“Yes,” the author said. “It’s what makes their reconnection so meaningful.”
I hesitated. “It does, but… the story doesn’t show how. Readers will wonder how they know so much about each other’s life without contact. Was it social media? Mutual friends? Events? Right now, there’s nothing to anchor that connection.”
The silence that followed told me I’d hit on something important. Finally, the author admitted, “I hadn’t thought of that. I assumed readers would just fill in the blanks.”
Ah, the dreaded blank spaces! Writers often want readers to infer things, but gaps can become distractions without the right hints. I explained that readers are naturally curious, especially about characters’ motivations. If the devotion wasn’t grounded in something believable, it could undermine the emotional payoff of their reunion.
To the author’s credit, they didn’t bristle at the critique. Instead, they got to work, and we brainstormed possible explanations. Luckily, there was already a nugget in the story to pull from. A quick flashback got readers up to speed.
When I read the revised draft, the difference was striking. Those small additions didn’t overwhelm the narrative—they enriched it. Suddenly, the actions felt like the perfect blend of loyalty and restraint, and the character’s realization of the other’s devotion carried so much more weight.
By the time the book reached beta readers, their feedback confirmed what I’d hoped. They adored it. The story was stronger, the emotional beats landed harder, and all it took was a little extra attention to those invisible threads that hold a plot together.
As editors, we don’t just fix commas and tighten sentences—we build bridges. Sometimes, those bridges turn a good story into one readers won’t forget.
Scars of the Heart wins in the category Short Stories Collections of the Literary Global Book Awards 2024 .
Since the January issue was published, I’ve admitted defeat. And own a case of careless stupidity. Yet, above all, I won’t give up. Yes, I’ve lost the first 85 handwritten pages of book 8. I’ll always remember how wonderful it was to write it while cruising up the Danube last spring, but that won’t bring it back. Consolation? I’d have had to rewrite it anyhow because of late-minute changes made to book 7, Lucky and Mrs. Nemo. Only now, I’ll rewrite it from scratch and find a safe place to keep it until it gets into my pc. For those who may not remember the reasoning behind a long-hand first draft, I can compose with more imagination using a nice fountain pen and black ink. There’s nothing cold or sterile about it, like a keyboard.
Moving on. Book 7, Lucky and Mrs. Nemo, is complete, 99% edited, and ready to send to my publisher. The publication date is probably November or December 2025.
The unofficial blurb for Lucky and Mrs. Nemo:
Pelaez is back, and Captain Nemo is a bit upset to see him, but it could also be because they have found Mrs. Nemo. The magician’s first encounter with Swango is told as they plan for the Nautilus’ journey to the Castell de Ferro in Spain, where Doctor Jurik Lazlo is hiding. Captain Nemo has been searching for him for a long time.
On Findbar, they’ve added another scientist. Dr. Martha Gluck (aka Lucky) is a character, literally and figuratively. She enjoys a lively gunfight, doesn’t faint at the sight of magic, and accepts danger as a jolly good time. She finally draws the line when she meets up with the broadsword-wielding ghost, Mrs. Spencer.
~~~~
Swango (book 6) is available everywhere. If you would like a list of past events in the previous books of the series as a reference while reading it (recommended), please visit my site to request a copy of the list. https://loukemp.com/about-the-author/
It may be pushing my luck, but I’m planning two books for a companion series to the Celwyn series. They will feature his untrustworthy brother Pelaez. But first, The Encyclopedia of Celwyn will be developed. It will contain a detailed list of all the series characters, along with descriptions, quirks, etc., and which books of the series they appear in. Also, it will contain all the events in the series books. There will be interviews with the main characters, funny or shocking stories from Celwyn et al., and much more. If you think the pouty red cat in the picture at the beginning of this issue (Celwyn’s Cats) is grumpy now, she will be even more upset at a lack of attention for the next several months. This is why cat treats were invented.
Shameless Buy Links to booksellers who carry the Celwyn series.
Also in this issue is another great article by editor Jennie Rosenblum on Choosing the Right Beta Reader, and part 1 of In Memory of the Sibylline, the serialized story that began the Celwyn Series.
Suzanne Shaw loves British history and literature, especially Jane Austen and fiction about the Age of Sail. Truthfully, she began writing historical fiction so she could spend as much time as possible in the Eighteenth and early Nineteenth Centuries. Of Ships and Sealing Wax is her first novel. She was fortunate enough to research its background and settings in the Bodleian Library, the London Library, and in Cornwall.
Of all your characters, which is the most like your personality?
I recognize something of myself in Sylvia Heywood, sister to the lead character Caroline. Sylvia likes to take charge and always thinks she’s right, but she has a big heart and would do anything for someone she cares about. Like Sylvia, I enjoy being in control. I hope I am half as generous.
If you have used a group of beta readers for help and support, what has been your experience with finding them, and using them?
I was fortunate to have four exceptional readers for the final draft. I connected with one reader via the internet and others through a historical fiction masterclass. All were willing to read and comment on a 90,000 word manuscript, which is a very heavy lift. Through writing struggles, lockdown, rejection, and success, they’ve leant me their ears, shoulders, and wisdom. One of my readers even found my publisher for me. There are so many unknowns to writing a first novel and finding a publisher. The lessons are: (1) you can’t do it alone, and (2) you need to reciprocate. For your own reading, what genre (s) do you read and why?
I love a mystery. I tend to look for mysteries with a historical or foreign setting because I like to be taken to a different time or place. During lockdown, I read mostly nonfiction, although couldn’t tell you why. Recently, I’ve been reading more literary fiction for a book club. I also read a lot of poetry, especially haiku and traditional Chinese poetry, which is beautiful and intriguing. Will there be a sequel to Of Ships and Sealing Wax?
I’m currently editing the manuscript for a related book that’s set several years later and follows many of the same characters. It’s a not sequel per se, but there is more to their story. There are suspense elements this time — stolen letters, missing sapphires, chases through dark streets, mysterious foreign ladies. And I hope there will be more stories after this one.
An Interview with Beau Lake and JM Paquette
About the Book:
Did you love The Mummy (1999) but wished every character had kissed? After an accident at a dig site, food truck owner Eliza inadvertently wakes up a centuries-old mummy. While Milfonnos the Blighted searches for the priestess who summoned him, Eliza enlists the help of a security guard, a mercenary, a lawyer, and a thief. Together, the harem uncover a secret society and rob a crime syndicate dealing in stolen artifacts, all in the hopes of freeing Milf from the magic that binds him.
Beau Lake Bio: Beau Lake is a paranormal romance and horror writer residing somewhere in the Shenandoah mountains. She is the author of the DC Pride series (co-written with Tatum West), the 6-part Wolves of Wharton series, One Mummy to Go, Please! (Co-written with JM Paquette), and the upcoming horror anthology series Allgood.
JM Paquette Bio: JM is the author of the Klauden’s Ring Saga as well as the Conjuring Fascination, Rockstar Fairy Tales, and Shawarma warrior King series, JM Paquette writes fantasy and paranormal romance novels. When she isn’t writing, she can be found teaching English, dissecting grammar, defending fantasy, discussing Tolkien, editing books, and watching Russian dragon shifter movies
Are there unique challenges to stay true to history? Beau: Jen and I wrote primarily about characters who resided in modern day Cairo, but Milfonnos is a pharaoh out of time. What we really played up was when he tries to go to a place of great comfort (the temple where he was coronated), he finds only a river, because historically, that temple had washed away. There’s also another scene where he is following what he believes is an impossibly long snake, which is a road; sees the eye shine of a predator, which is a car’s headlights; and gets shouted at by the driver (who, in his mind, should be groveling and kissing his feet).
Do you have advice for a writer tackling a new genre?
Beau: I am living this right now as I transition to purely horror fiction (except for future installments of the Shawarma Warrior King series!). My advice would be to read, read, read in your genre. You may know how to write, and write effectively, but you need to know what the beats look like, how the (in this case, horror) novel BREATHES.
What genres do you read and why?
Beau: Generally, I read horror but I do enjoy fantasy and science fiction. Horror has always been a comfort. In The Book of Accidents, Chuck Wendig wrote that characters endure terrible things, but the things don’t kill them. They simply change them.
Do you have suggestions to promote books on social media.
Beau: Vary it up. Don’t post the same content over and over. Work with the platform you are using, not against it. It is okay to be silly and have fun, because you’re a person, not just an author.
Will there be a sequel?
Beau: Absolutely. Jen and I have an outline for the rest of the series. Each book gives another character an arc and moves along the plot toward its conclusion. We try to make each one feel like it’s own complete thing, so there’s not quite a cliffhanger; you feel good where the characters are at that end. We anticipate the next book of the series to come out late 2025 or early 2026.
JM: Of course! Beau and I planned for a five book series arc, so Eliza and the guys have many more adventures coming up!
Is there a place for politics in your books?
Beau: Books are inherently political. Even the most far-flung world, full of elves and knights and whatever else, endures political struggle of SOME kind. It is the human condition to explore how humans are, even if our characters aren’t entirely human.
If you have used (or still do) a writing group for help and support, what has been your experience with finding one, and using them?
JM: Having a co-author (Beau Lake) made writing this book infinitely easier (since I technically only wrote half a book!) as well as a ton of fun. We shared a ridiculous amount of mummy gifs (and sexy men in general) to keep us inspired as we went. Having that accountability as well as someone to bounce ideas off as we built the story made the process natural. On top of that, we had another writer (Valerie Willis) weighing in on our crazy ideas as we plotted the main story beats, and that additional perspective made the story richer in the end.
Do you consult a friend/other authors for advice on sticky writing situations?
JM: Always! I tend to write at night online with other authors on a Discord server, so when I get stuck, I can ask whoever is on for some feedback. I just did that last night on my work in progress (Rockstar Fairy Tales 2: Heart of Fire)! The debate: Which is more fun: the vampire hooks up with the sister of the woman he accidentally killed the night he was turned OR the sister didn’t die and is alive (a vampire) and her sister comes looking for her (and then I decide who the vampire ends up with)? We laughed, and they gave me some good insight *You’ll have to read the book to see what they suggested!).
For your own reading, what genre (s) do you read and why? If it isn’t the one you write in, would it be someday?
JM: I am a complete sucker for paranormal romance. Give me vampires, witches, demons, werewolves, and all manner of shifters. Even better if there’s a love triangle. I do demand a happy ending, though. No deaths (even noble sacrifices!) in my romance, please!
Choosing the Right Beta Reader
What is the difference between a beta reader and an editor? Beta Readers see the story: Editors see the details.
Jennie Rosenblum has been an independent editor for small publishers and indie authors. Since 2014, she has been happily self-employed helping authors. Over the next few months, she will be sharing guest columns here. Feel free to reach out to her at www.jenniereads.com.
Beta readers are a crucial part of the writing process. They offer fresh eyes, honest feedback, and insights that can elevate your manuscript. However, not all beta readers are equal. Choosing the right ones can make the difference between valuable critique and wasted time. Here are tips to help.
Look for Brutal Honesty
Friends or family may hesitate to critique your work openly. A good beta reader, however, isn’t afraid to point out issues like weak characters, slow pacing, or awkward dialogue. Constructive criticism is essential for growth.
Set clear expectations with potential beta readers. Let them know you’re not seeking flattery but honest feedback. Avid readers will understand audience expectations and can identify potential flaws.
Seek Diverse Perspectives
A mix of backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints will give you richer, more comprehensive feedback. For instance, if your story features characters from different cultures, beta readers from those backgrounds can ensure authenticity.
Similarly, a range of ages, genders, and expertise levels can help address different aspects of your manuscript, from character arcs to dialogue.
Consider Professional Beta Readers
Unpaid beta readers can be helpful, but hiring professionals offers unique advantages:
Commitment Professionals treat beta reading as a job. Unlike unpaid readers, they are consistent and deliver detailed feedback on time.
Expertise Many professionals have publishing experience. They can critique story structure, pacing, and character development with precision.
Objectivity Unlike friends or family, professionals provide unbiased feedback focused on improving your manuscript.
Efficiency With a clear timeline, professionals help you meet deadlines without delays.
Choosing the Right Professionals
When hiring a professional beta reader, look for experience in your genre. Check reviews, testimonials, and sample critiques. Be specific about what you want—feedback on pacing, character development, or overall readability—to get the most value.
Combine Approaches
Using both unpaid and professional beta readers can balance everyday reader perspectives with expert insights. For example, unpaid readers can gauge engagement, while professionals focus on technical elements like plot and pacing.
Final Thoughts
Beta readers are invaluable for refining your manuscript, but selecting the right ones requires thought. Prioritize honesty, seek diverse perspectives, and consider professional services. The goal isn’t perfection but progress. With the right feedback, you’ll be ready to craft a polished, compelling book.
An Interview with JC Gatlin
About the book:
A Tampa crime writer returns to her hometown to attend the funeral of a childhood friend who committed suicide, but suspects murder when she receives text messages from the deceased.
Bio:
JC Gatlin is an award-winning mystery & suspense author residing in Tampa, Florida. After self-publishing three stand-alone murder mysteries on Amazon, his fourth book, H_NGM_N: Murder is the Word was published by Milford House Press. That mystery went on to win the prestigious Royal Palm Literary Award for Best Mystery. Milford House published his following novel, Darkness Hides, and will be publishing the sequel to H_NGM_N in 2025.
How would you compare your book to other styles of mysteries?
My mysteries tend to have a balance of humor and suspense. I’m a big fan of 90s mystery/horror, like Scream and I Know What You Did Last Summer, and those influences are present in my mysteries. It’s scary but also tongue-in-cheek.
Of all your characters (real or not), which is the most like your own personality? How many of the char’s traits are already part of you, verses what you want them to be?
I don’t think any singular character is a stand-in for me. However, every character has traits of my personality with them. Tori can be no-nonsense, bull-dogged determined once she makes up her mind to do something or prove something. There are many people who will tell you I’m the same way, especially when it comes to my writing schedule. RJ doesn’t take life too seriously and is laid-back and makes fun of things he sees. That’s a dual part of my personality too. I don’t think RJ would ever be the life of the party, but neither would I. Even the murderer shares a few personality traits with me, although I can’t go into that without revealing which character did-in the school teacher. (And no, I would never resolve a situation with murder!)
In what you read or write, what kind of characters appeal to you the most, and why, with examples.
I love characters who have personality defects and social issues, and learning what trauma happened in their past to create those defects. I like characters who are humorous, whether that’s in dialog or in their actions. And, of course, characters who are hiding something, especially plot-twisting secrets, are the crux of any good mystery.
In H_NGM_N, Tori is stuck moving forward professionally, personally, and in her romantic relationships due to things that happened to her growing up. When her childhood friend is murdered, she has to return home and, in the event of solving the murder, confront those childhood issues. I hope readers say, “Oh, so that’s why she’s like that or does that,” as they learn more about her past.
Can a villain be sympathetic, or should they do good deeds in order to be redeemed in the eyes of those around them (or the readers)?
I guess it depends on the type of story you’re writing. In a mystery, the murderer always has a motive, but I don’t know that the motive must always be sympathetic. Murderers in whodunnits generally tend to be motivated by greed, revenge, or passion. And while they always get their comeuppance, they are rarely redeemed.
In H_NGM_N, the reader will certainly understand why that character resorted to murder to achieve a goal, and the consequences are tragic–a lot of characters are affected by the murder. However, I doubt anyone will feel sympathy for the villain. I think that goes for all my mystery novels–there is understanding for the why, but I doubt any sane person would actually agree that was the best course of action.
One character trait that all great villains share is the idea that they are the hero in their own story. From their perspective, their actions were justified or right. Because of their circumstances, they were left with only one option. Only Darth Vader is a true, no-shades-of-grey villain, but even he is redeemed in the end and wanted to bring order to chaos. So scratch that, even Darth Vader wasn’t just purely evil for evil’s sake.
The Celwyn Series YouTube channel
What is New with the Celwyn Series?
What is new with the Celwyn Series? Swango (book 6) is available everywhere. If you would like a list of past events in the previous books as a reference while reading it (recommended), visit my site and contact me for the list. https://loukemp.com/about-the-author/
Mini-blurb: Pelaez is back, they find Mrs. Nemo, and Captain Nemo is a bit upset. The magician’s first encounter with Swango is told as they plan for the Nautilus’ journey to the Castell de Ferro in Spain where Doctor Jurik Lazlo is hiding. Captain Nemo has been searching for him for a long time.
For book 7, Lucky and Mrs. Nemo, here is the official blurb.
On Findbar, they’ve added another scientist. Dr. Martha Gluck (aka Lucky) who is a character, literally and figuratively. She enjoys a lively gunfight, doesn’t faint at the sight of magic, and accepts danger as a jolly good time. She finally draws the line when she meets up with the broadsword wielding ghost, Mrs. Spencer. I’m at the 95% mark in the final editing, and an educated guess is that it will be out in fall 2025.
Book 8, with a tentative title of We Three Magicians, is on hold for a bit because I’ve changed book 7, which requires rewriting the first part of book 8. At least I haven’t lost any more of the manuscript. There is also the distinct possibility that I’ll write another companion book first featuring Pelaez (Celwyn’s brother and also an immortal magician) to release some stress. Pelaez feels like my alter ego at times with his antics and devious ideas of fun. .
Stop by the Mystery Review Crew on December 1st at https://mysteryreviewcrew.com/. You’ll find some great one-liners nominated by your favorite authors and a contest.
Later in December …… the Mystery Review Crew, https://mysteryreviewcrew.com, will have their holiday event of original short stories and giveaways. For it, Author Richard Koreto and I, have collaborated on a story, Ophelia’s Promise. It features Salieri and Mozart and a murder.
An Interview with writer and artist Stephen B. Graziani
I asked Stephen Graziani a few questions, and here is what he said:
About what people see. One thing I learned long ago—it’s not my job to determine what other people see in my work… it’s just my job to create pieces where people find something to see or think about. Naturally I can guess what many people will see or feel, especially with the more opinionated pieces, but I’m still constantly surprised by other’s interpretations.
I once sculpted a 7’ high rusting steel cross, held together by barbed wire, in response to an evangelist announcing God said to vote for a republican—only to have a 19yo kid walk into my shop and love the piece because it showed how strong the church is. When I do an art festival, I usually take around 100 different etchings, displayed in bins for thumbing through like old jazz albums. Sometimes I try to guess which pieces will attract a certain person, and I’m probably only right 25% of the time—I like that.
Art to stories and visa-versa. I have a hard time writing a story to a piece of my art—I can get by that, if needed. But I find when I try to create an etching to a story I’ve written, the art becomes too limited. I like my art/etchings to be ‘story rich’… quoting one of the editors from a book that’s coming out soon— a hybrid anthology where 19 writers create stories and poems to 32 of my etchings. I only wrote one, so I’m anxious to see through other eyes. My best solution is to keep my art and writing completely separate… at least for now (I don’t like to close doors). I’m primarily an artist who occasionally likes to write, but when I’m doing either I can’t imagine not doing them.
Process wise, I like there to be a challenge—without the dance, what fun is it? With the etchings I’m working with a medium that’s unpredictable (it’s still a new medium to me), so there’s the dance aspect, so I don’t care for the challenge of playing to a prompt, outside life in general. But when it comes to writing, I love working from prompts… that becomes the challenge (though it’s not needed).
A note about the covers. When I worked in television, though I had a horrible tendency to want to play in other people’s lanes, I eventually came to terms (almost) with each department best controls their craft. My book cover designs were like writing the books—to see if I could do it all from scratch, but not trying to become a novelist. I believe publishers or cover design artist dealing with book sales in mind have a better finger on the marketing side than I would.
Stephen has two shows in May 2025—Beverly Hills Art Festival & Monsterpalooza.
Swango: Book 6 of the Celwyn Series. Swango is almost here. Pelaez is back and causing trouble. Available for pre-order now. General availability 12-29-24.
D. A. Spruzen grew up near London, U.K., graduated from the London College of Dance and Drama Education, and earned an MFA in Creative Writing from Queens University of Charlotte. She teaches creative writing in Northern Virginia when not seeking her own muse. Dorothy is also a visual artist and loves her Cavalier King Charles spaniel, her house on the Chesapeake Bay, reading, and creating her garden.
Her published works include the Sleuthing with Mortals urban fantasy series; a historical novel, The Blitz Business; The Flower Ladies trilogy; Crossroads: Two Novellas; and, a poetry chapbook, Long in the Tooth. She reviews for the Washington Independent Review of Books and serves on the faculty of the Tinker Mountain Writer’s Workshop at Hollins University in Roanoke, VA.
1. Do you plan to write any nonfiction? (or another genre?)
I have had a lot of poetry published, and a poetry chapbook, Long in the Tooth, was published a few years ago. I’ve taught and written a memoir.
2. What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are just starting their writing journey?
Take classes and learn the craft. Read widely. Find a writer’s group. When you write, write without stopping to worry about spelling, grammar, and so on. Stopping to fix all that is a sure path to writer’s block. Then revise. Revise. Revise some more. Edit last. Get other eyes on your work.
3. Set the scene: What is your perfect writing day? What time of day is it? Where are you? What is or is not happening in the background?
I sit in front of a window that looks out onto the Chesapeake Bay. The waves dance and play with the sunlight. I am alone except for my dog. I have a handy bottle of Pellegrino on my side table.
4. How would you compare the style of the Sleuthing with Mortals series to other styles of fantasies?
The memoirs move through the Norse heavens, ancient cultures, and other historical events. A mystery runs through the story, too, as does Mary’s own life in the household. Hence, while largely urban fantasy, the books also embody mythology, historical fiction, and mystery.
5. In your series, Sleuthing with Mortals, do your characters evolve as it progresses?
In The Turkish Connection, a Norse goddess, Lin hires Mary to be the resident ghostwriter of her memoirs. Mary finds all her previous assumptions about life, love, and religion, challenged—Norse gods and their powers are real and what she thought was mythology, isn’t.
In The Witch of Tut, Lin finds a friend of her own kind (goddess), a great comfort. Mary is a little jealous, and … there’s such a thing as a witch? Terror grips Mary more than once.
In The Knight, the Gnome, and the Fox, Mary realizes that her daughter has greater abilities than a normal child. Will the child find her mother inferior? To Mary’s amazement, yet another survivor of Raganarok appears. Yggdrasil is growing fast. They all wonder how life will change if the gods of Asgar rule again.
Chip Haynes is an artist, writer, cyclist and juggler living in Tampa, Florida. Chip is currently dabbling in fiction and poetry when he’s not pedaling in shorts and sandals, and doesn’t mind writing in shorts and sandals as well. But not when he’s riding his bike. The man ahs his limits. (But he has juggled on his bike!)
1. Talk about the illustration process (and what you’ve learned?) I’m a retired professional commercial artist, so I have to say that the illustrator for this children’s book series, Niki Tantillo, is my absolutely hero. She obviously read all of these stories very carefully and kept notes. She got everything, every detail, so very right, down to the flower on Olivia’s brown hat! And I could never have matched her wonderful casual style, which was exactly with this casual possum needed! We have emailed back and forth a bit, but we have yet to meet. (And we really should!)
2. What do you think new authors should decide before they begin their book? Should it be who they are writing for (themselves or their audience)? Do you have other criteria you would suggest? Oh, I wrote a whole book on this! (“How to Write a Book”) It comes down to this: Once you have That Idea, do your homework, your research and do the most detailed story outline that you possibly can. That’s what totally saves the day later as you sit there and write the text. Oh, and caffeine. Yer gonna need some serious caffeine. Yep.
3.Of all your characters, which is the most like your personality? How many of the char’s traits are already part of you, verses what you want them to be? In all honesty, it’s probably me, somewhere, in all of my books, but I am SO Oliver Possum! I’ve got the bike and the hat, and I DO stop for tea and pie. (I did just this morning!) And I am sort of short and fuzzy…
4.In your upcoming book, did your characters evolve as you used them? Oliver grows up from book to book, from learning to ride a bike in his first book to having adventures on the road with his friends and finding a girl possum to ride with, but as for me, no, I’m still just Uncle Chippie to everyone. Even my nephews.
5. Can you see yourself using Ai in your books? On what part and why? No. I enjoy the act of writing too much to let some robot try to be me. And geez, Louise, what if they did a better job? I’d be out of work! (But would they pay me for the use of my name? Hmmmm…
6. Talk about how your series came about. What did you initially visualize for the theme? Did it lead to an idea for a new series? The idea came to me as I rode Oliver Possum’s bicycle- a vintage English 3-speed. The name came first, and then the persona followed. And then the stories… so many stories… The series is simply my life on a bike over the years and the miles…
The Celwyn Series celebrates the holidays! From Dec 14th – Jan 3rd. If a reader buys one of the paperbacks or hardcovers, they get the ebook for FREE. link to buy
Choosing the Right Editor with Jennie Rosenblum
Jennie Rosenblum has been an independent editor for small publishers and indie authors. Since 2014, she has been happily self-employed helping authors. Over the next few months, she will be sharing guest columns here. Feel free to reach out to her at www.jenniereads.com.
Finding the right editor is about more than just skill:
It’s about finding someone who clicks with you and your project.
Think of it as a partnership, and ask yourself how you prefer to work. Do you like having a regular chat over the phone to discuss feedback, or are you more comfortable with email exchanges?
Maybe you’re looking for someone who gives deep developmental feedback to help shape your story,
Or perhaps you just want a polished final draft with clean grammar and style.
Being clear on your preferences will make the search much smoother and help you find the perfect editor for your project.
Most editors these days are a bit of a one-stop shop—they often provide a range of services like beta reading, developmental editing, and copyediting. Some can even tackle grammar, style, and proofreading all in one go, making the process simpler. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and make sure they offer exactly what you need. After all, finding the right editor is like finding the right pair of shoes—it has to be the right fit, or it’s just not going to work!
Working with an editor is an investment in your book’s success, giving it the best possible chance to stand out in a competitive market.
A good editor won’t just polish your prose; they’ll help your voice and story shine through in a way that’s unmistakably yours. So. take your time, find someone who understands your vision, and get ready to bring your book to life in the best way possible.
Ideas for Holiday Book Gifts
Paying in Blood by Karen Hayden Grabbing a Slice of Minnesota Nice by Lucas Lamont Mother of Exiles, by Joel Flanagan-Grannemann About Basketball….by Mike De Lucia
The Transit Series by Benjamin X Wretlind Deadly Business by Anita Dickason Loose Lips by Kemper Donovan The Turnbull Murders by Richard Koreto
The Vampire Called Allison by Nick Savage The Door by Taggart Rehnn Rise of the Sky Pilot by S. W. Raine The Night Circus by Erin Morganstern
Death of a Dream Catcher by Linda’s Norlander Wonder of Light by Jessica Scatchetti Dissonance by Aaron Ryan Devils Island by Midge Raymond and John Yunker The Bench by Ty Carlson A Stitch in Key Lime by R. A. Hutchins The Cabinet of Dr Leng by Preston and Child The Shadow of the Mole by Bob Van Laer Hoven
Looking for some inspiration? Give these writing prompts a try and see where your words take you.
Only ten letters survived… Still, she waited… A glamorous denial… The heavens already forbade… They took another turn… Seeking wiser counsel… Rapture stole them… Ten times the cost… The scales tipped… A rush of sunlight… The veiled waves… It came down to the poets… Abstract clouds… His footsteps an elegy…
An interview with writer Mimi Francis
Mimi Francis is a sassy romance writer known for her steamy tales of passion that leave readers breathless. When she’s not crafting the perfect happily-ever-after, you can find her sipping margaritas and binge-watching Marvel movies or the TV show Supernatural. But her true loves (after her husband, of course) are her four Shih Tzus who keep her company as she spins stories that will make your heart race and your toes curl. Get ready to fall in love with her characters and the worlds she creates.
1. Is there something about your books/your point of view that you think readers should know? I write my books in third-person dual POV. This gives my books a movie-like feel when you’re reading them. It also gives the reader the chance to see the story from both the male and female characters’ points of view. 2. Will there be a sequel to Taken by the Mobster? The second book in the Massachusetts Mafia series will be released in mid-2025. The title is a secret and under wraps. It will focus on two minor characters from Taken by the Mobster, Caitlin O’Reilly and Grady McCarthy. All of my books are standalone reads in an interconnected universe, so they have a firm “happily for now/happily ever after” ending. 3. Did a particular historical/arcane fact in your research stick with you, maybe becoming part of the series or a standalone in the future? This book is part of a mafia romance series. While doing my research, I discovered that the Irish mafia was quite prevalent in the Boston area in the 1900s. This fact prompted me to focus the series on the Irish mafia in the New England area. 4. Who is your favorite villain of all time and why? (examples please) and 12. Can a villain be sympathetic, or do good deeds in order to be redeemed in the eyes of those around them (or the readers)? (examples)My all-time favorite villain is Loki from the Marvel movies. My favorites are Avengers and the first Thor movie. I think villains can be sympathetic, especially if their origin story is tragic or compelling. And I do think they can redeem themselves if they change their ways and do good. Helping the protagonist accomplish a heroic act often redeems them for me. 5. Which specific authors or books have influenced you in your writing journey?I was heavily influenced by J.R. Ward, the author of the Black Dagger Brotherhood series and Stephen King. Both are writers I admire and when I wrote as a teenager, I tried to emulate their writing, in particular King’s. As I grew as a writer, I became more and more influenced by J.R. Ward. I have followed her for years and I love her books. I hope someday to have people love me like they do her.
What is New with the Celwyn Series?
For book 7, Lucky and Mrs. Nemo, progress has been made, to a point. All the beta reads are back, and they’re very useful. But …. something was missing, and until this morning I hadn’t a clue what it was. Without committing a spoiler of my own work, lets say it is going to be a double cliff hanger. Of course, with my usual lack of foresight, that means I have to revise at least the beginning chapters of book 8. Such is the life of the disorganized.
There isn’t an official blurb yet for Lucky and Mrs. Nemo. Here is a draft of it:
On Findbar, they’ve added another scientist. Dr. Martha Gluck (aka Lucky) who is a character, literally and figuratively. She enjoys a good gunfight, doesn’t faint at the sight of magic, and accepts danger as a jolly good time. She finally draws the line when she meets up with the broadsword wielding ghost, Mrs. Spencer.
I’ll repeat the following description from last month because I feel like it: Book 6 is finally ready. You’d think I just birthed triplets.
Swango, will be out late this year, 12-29-2024 and is available for pre-order now. The series is still magical realism in a steampunk world with Captain Nemo and Celwyn, but now it contains a new genre; one that will open up the adventures in unexpected ways, usually at the expense of Celwyn, Professor Kang and Bartholomew. Captain Nemo has accepted the unexpected, and even makes sarcastic comments about it.
For Swango: by the time the magician and the others leave Singapore, they are grieving; a member of their family has been murdered in Prague.
The magician’s first encounter with Swango is told as they plan for the Nautilus’ journey to the Castell de Ferro in Spain where Doctor Jurik Lazlo is hiding. Captain Nemo has been searching for him for a long time.
Book 8? I’d last reported that I’d lost about 50 pages of the handwritten first draft. That doesn’t seem so bad now (see the reference to changing the draft above because of a change to book 7) Everything works out for a purpose. If not, even with a little bit of bad luck, or worse, and it all looks as if it were planned that way.
The near future holds another companion book for the series, untitled, and it will star Pelaez demonstrating his untrustworthiness and devious ideas of fun.
Shameless Buy Links to booksellers who carry the Celwyn series.
There is also a great article from editor Jennie Rosenblum and updates and reviews from Gina K. Mitchell. Our new serialization is a short story from Benjamin X. Wretlind, entitled Over There.
Celwyn’s Cats
Celebrate! Roll around the floor. Take a bath. Hack up a hairball. Book 6, Swango, is almost here!
It’s almost Christmas, can you believe it?
Stop by the Mystery Review Crew on December 1st, https://mysteryreviewcrew.com/ You’ll find some great one-liners nominated by your favorite authors, and a contest.
Later in December, the Mystery Review Crew
will have their holiday event of original short
stories and giveaways. Author Richard Koreto
and I have collaborated on our story, Ophelia’s
Promise.
It features Salieri and Mozart, and a murder.
An Interview with James Seeley
Decorated veteran Jacob Stearne races against ruthless adversaries to recover a secret capable of changing the balance of global power. Entangled in betrayals and shifting alliances, Jacob must first confront the Hero’s Paradox before he can secure the prize.
When James Seeley was ten, he read Treasure Island and thought: when he made stuff up, he got in trouble. So, he became a writer. But life had a few twists. At 19, he adopted a three year old girl, later met and married the love of his life, and had two children. When he’d made all the gold he could eat, he pursued his dream career: writing action-adventures. He is now sixteen books deep and loving it.
1. Does your reading stay within your genre, or do you read different genres? I read widely, both within my genre of mystery and thrillers as well as Sci-Fi, Romance, and Historical. I’ll read anything well-written. I also enjoy a good deal of non-fiction to better inform my writing. IE: This year I’ve read books on economics, writing, espionage, history, mythology, and a few biographies.
2. Do you ever consider yourself in the shoes of the reader? Do you hear anything from them? I think of myself as a reader first. But humans are the best at self-deception, so I constantly poll my readers through my newsletters. I get terrific feedback. I decided not to kill off a couple characters who were boring me because my readers said, “We don’t read Game of Thrones because they all die!” So I shipped the characters off to faraway lands and retrieve them once in a while. As I answer this question, I’m about to send out a poll on whether they’d like a whole new post-apocalyptic series from me. I’ve got a premise in my head, but it would take time away from the bread-and-butter characters.
3. Have you thought of writing non-fiction? For the last ten years, I’ve had a book on parenting in my head, titled: How to be the Perfect Parent. (If you have kids over 15, you just laughed.) As noted in my bio, I adopted a little girl forty-eight years ago; I later got married and had two kids the old-fashioned way (two parents, nuclear family). I now have three kids, three grandkids, and three great grandkids. Over nearly five decades of parenting, I learned a lot of things through trial and error. My second crop benefitted immensely from my good-ideas-gone-wrong and they frequently thank their big sister for teaching me how to be a better dad. If I write it, the book would have chapters like: You don’t know unconditional love until you’ve bailed a child out of jail. And advice like: The goal in life is to have the kids leave and the wife stay. Not to mention observations such as: Getting angry doesn’t work … apparently.
4. Will there be a sequel to Chasm of Exiles? Yes, it’s the sixteenth novel overall (2 prequels and 14 in the series proper). Once, I left a cliffhanger at the end of a book, but I hate those and my readers weren’t shy about telling me their opinion either. Since then, each book stands alone. You can read any of them in any order. The story arc contains elements that carry over, but nothing you can’t figure out. After this book, there are two more stuck in my head. After that, I’m seriously considering an epic post-apocalyptic trilogy or pentalogy.
5. Should new authors write for themselves or their audience? In my humble opinion, you should always write for yourself first. If you don’t like it, why would anyone else? That said, it’s important to understand the reader you want to reach. I happen to love oddball writing and experimental stuff that might not go well with my intended audience. So I write something that I want to read—within reason.
6. Do you have your next book’s plot already in your head? Yes, in general terms. My series has two main characters, and the next one will focus on the heroine, Pia Sabel. She’s a billionaire (the only nice one) who becomes trapped after an avalanche cuts off communications at an exclusive Alpine resort. With her are six other billionaires (not-so-nice) and their significant others. One of the party is murdered and Pia must figure out whodunit. It will be my homage to the manor-house mysteries of Agatha Christie while also paying tribute to the intrigues of John le Carre and the twists of Lucy Foley.
Book 6 of the Celwyn Series, Swango is almost here. Pelaez is back and causing trouble. Available for pre-order now. General availability 12-29-24.
Interview with Valerie Willis
Valerie Willis is an expert typesetter, public speaker, and a paranormal romance author. Works include Writer’s Bane, The Cedric Series, The Prince’s Priest as V.C. Willis, and Cryptid Erotica as Honey Cummings. Her workshops have covered novel writing, research, world building, character development, reader immersion, foreshadowing, and more.
How would you compare Cedric the Demonic Knight to other styles of fantasies? This may have all the trappings of a dark fantasy and broody antihero, but this story, characters, and even the plot at times is pulled from a mixture of mythology, dark history, and superstitions. For Cedric, many will recognize a blend of Russian, Romanian, and Polish folktales and superstitions tied into the mix and names reflective of the Russian Knight Hero Tales that were commonplace during the Dark Ages in which the story takes place in for most of the book. Each book in the series does this with different focal points to add a different flavor that often leads readers stunned at accuracy or the amount of influence from real world mythos.
If you have used a writing group for help and support, what has been your experience with finding them, and using them? At the start of my author career, I was part of a variety of writer groups. Each of them had something different that aided me in both my writing as well as my goal to become an author. For example, one group always had workshops about traditional and self publishing so I could learn more of what to expect from both sides, another group that had a few other writers in the same genre were a big help on making sure I was mastering my genres, another was very open to building writing craft and how to self edit, and another helped with reading my work out loud and being able to strengthen my public speaking skills.
Which of your books was the hardest to write, and why? The 4th book in the Cedric Series was the hardest. I had hit a point in the story where I had to take a step back and do more worldbuilding and establish what I had hinted at for 3 books. Deciding how and what I wanted my underworld and magical realms to look like and more importantly, how they functioned was quite the undertaking. In the end, I am very happy that I didn’t shy away from using the Celtic belief system as the foundation despite how little information from the original culture exists. Using it allowed me to overlap Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and more to add some fun burst of flavor in unexpected places.
For your own reading, what genre (s) do you read? I read a lot of Dark Fantasy, Fantasy Romance, and MM Romance with Fantasy vibes. There is also a lot of Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy Romance in my selections. My current series I am chewing through is the Blood and Ash Series by Jennifer Armentrout. SO GOOD! Absolutely love the characters and the banter is so fun for a Dark Fantasy Romance.
Do you plan to write any nonfiction? I have already written and published some nonfiction books! Because I do so much research and have a process, my first one was the Writer’s Bane: Research 101 for those needing help to organize that process or get more out of their research attempts. From there, I have released a textbook sized book on Formatting 101 as well as being known for reformatting old public domain books such as Bulfinch’s Mythology, The Faerie-Faith of the Celtic Countries, and The Book of Werewolves. Non Fiction inspires a lot of what I do and these books are resources for the Cedric Series, so I made them into eye-pleasing versions. Writer’s Bane Series came about thanks to over a hundred panels and workshops, I realized I knew a lot about a lot, and now I’m passing what I have learned and experience to other writers.
Can a villain be sympathetic, or do good deeds in order to be redeemed in the eyes of those around them (or the readers)? I love morally grey characters, and more importantly, every character being flawed. In the Cedric Series there is the constant sensation that each powerful being we encounter is a villain to Cedric in some way, while still being a hero in their own tale. In book 2, Romasanta: Father of Werewolves we get to see this play out a few times as scenes overlap and parallel from book 1. We see Romasanta as this nasty villain but as you travel through his own story you realize that Cedric is oblivious to who he really is, what his intent is, and this concept of Cedric is beneath Romasanta in a lot of ways which drives this concept “I don’t have to explain myself to you” vibe that breaks down communication. I love character that can flip sides depending on where their feelings, morals, and goals align in several situations. We see this the most I think with the character Lilith, and more is revealed about her in books 3 and 5!
Jennie Rosenblum has been an independent editor for small publishers and indie authors. Since 2014, she has been happily self-employed helping authors. Over the next few months, she will be sharing guest columns here. Feel free to reach out to her at www.jenniereads.com.
Why Pay for an Editor When I Can Use Software to Polish My Manuscript?
With the rise of advanced editing software, authors may wonder whether a professional editor is necessary. While these tools can help identify grammatical errors and improve sentence flow, they fall short in areas requiring deeper insight, such as story structure, character development, and market alignment.
A professional editor doesn’t just focus on sentence-level corrections; they look at the entire manuscript. Experienced editors often specialize in specific genres, giving them the expertise to understand what works best for your target audience. They know how to pace a story, develop characters, and maintain the right tone based on your genre’s conventions.
More importantly, the best editors are in tune with current market trends and reader expectations. This knowledge helps them guide you in making your book more commercially viable while preserving your unique voice. Software simply cannot provide this level of market-savvy advice.
Ideas for Holiday Book Gifts
The Cayman Conundrum by Stacy Wilder The Two Terrors of Tule Lake by W M Gunn Confronting Power and Chaos by Christine Scarbek The Canvas by Lane Stone
Operation Navajo by Anita Dickason Aebris Storm by Benjamin X. Wretlind Dead Land by Chris Mullen Death in the Orchard by Marni Graff
Linda’s Norlander’s latest Robert Lewis’ Shadow Guardian series Nick Savage’s YA adventure M J Miller’s mystery to die for.
The Celwyn Series YouTube channel
Let’s Talk About BBNYA
The Book Bloggers’ Novel of the Year Award (BBNYA) is a unique annual competition celebrating the best in self-published and indie-published literature. Judged entirely by a panel of book bloggers, it offers independent authors the chance to gain exposure and connect with passionate readers. The competition consists of multiple rounds, with books being eliminated and reviewed along the way, culminating in a final selection of standout works.
For readers, BBNYA provides access to hidden gems, curated recommendations, diverse stories, and insights from trusted book bloggers. With the rise of indie publishing, BBNYA has grown in popularity, making it a respected platform for discovering fresh literary voices.
Sign-ups for 2025 authors and panelists should be open in early February (ideally by February 7. Check my site for details and a mailing list where people can sign up to be notified when entries open.
To learn more about the benefits of BBNYA to readers and authors, check out the blog post, Let’s Talk About BBNYA, on GinaRaeMitchell.com.
While BBNYA 2024 is wrapping up, it’s not too early to consider becoming a panelist or entering an Indie book for the 2025 competition.
Story Serialization part 1 of 3
A Review, and Review Opportunities for Authors
Tayvie’s Story is an extraordinary coming-of-age saga of a talented, young, biracial jazz singer who perfects her craft on two continents during the volatile 1930s and ’40s despite appalling circumstances.
Indie authors, are you looking to boost your book’s visibility?
Gina Rae Mitchell offers reviews, giveaways, and promotions that can help your work reach a dedicated community of readers. With regular features on indie titles, opportunities for promos, interviews, guest posts, and a growing subscriber base, this blog is a goldmine for exposure and engagement. Ready to connect with readers who love discovering new indie gems? Explore more at GinaRaeMitchell.com!
Gina showcases all genres of books, from children’s picture books to middle-grade and young adult books, to all types of fiction.
What is New with the Celwyn Series?
What is new with the Celwyn Series?
Book 6 is finally ready. You’d think I just birthed triplets.
Swango, will be out late this year, 12-29-2024 and is available for pre-order now. The good news is that the title is unusual enough for it to come up easily at Amazon.
….a warning … the series is still magical realism in a steampunk world with Captain Nemo and Celwyn, but now it contains a new genre; one that will open up the adventures in unexpected ways, usually at the expense of Celwyn, Professor Kang and Bartholomew.
The blurb:
Late in the 1870s Singapore, Celwyn survives a vicious attack only to find it may take even more to endure his own family. His brother Pelaez has returned, insisting on his innocence, and their father Wolfgang Augustus Griffin has his sights set on Nemo’s marooned crew. As the Nautilus travels to Beirut, Prague, and Findbar Island, they encounter Swango, a seemingly innocent clairvoyant and drinking buddy from the magician’s past, a man who has more help with his predictions than most spiritualists. Meanwhile, Nemo must finally confront the secrets of his own past.
By the time the magician and the others leave Singapore, they are grieving; a member of their family has been murdered in Prague.
The magician’s first encounter with Swango is told as they plan for the Nautilus’ journey to the Castell de Ferro in Spain where Doctor Jurik Lazlo is hiding. Captain Nemo has been searching for him for a long time.
For book 7, Lucky and Mrs. Nemo, progress has been made since the last newsletter. It has been read by two great new beta readers, thank you Jean and Dorothy, and I’ll soon be able to finalize it and ship it to my publisher. If you would like to become a beta reader, let me know at https://loukemp.com/about-the-author/
There isn’t an official blurb yet for Lucky and Mrs. Nemo. Here is a draft of it:
On Findbar, they’ve added another scientist. Dr. Martha Gluck (aka Lucky) is a character, literally and figuratively. She enjoys a good gunfight, doesn’t faint at the sight of magic, and accepts danger as a jolly good time. She finally draws the line when she meets up with the broadsword wielding ghost, Mrs. Spencer.
Book 8? I’d reported here that 130 pages of the handwritten first draft existed, and I’d tucked it away until book 7 was at the publisher. Well… I can only find about 80 pages, and have had to back up and regroup. Since that discovery, it has marinated for a few weeks, and will move forward again—like a living thing with a mind of its own and a lack of grammar and bad spelling.
The near future holds another companion book for the series, untitled, and it will star Pelaez demonstrating his untrustworthiness and devious ideas of fun.
Shameless Buy Links to booksellers who carry the Celwyn series.
Swango Swango Swango! Book 6 in The Celwyn Series is almost here!
Swango, book 6 of the Celwyn Series is available for pre-order & for sale 12-29-24. In 1870s Singapore, Celwyn survives a vicious attack only to find it may take even more to endure his own family. His brother Pelaez has returned, insisting on his innocence, and their father Wolfgang Augustus Griffin has his sights set on Nemo’s marooned crew.
A Review of Scars of the Heart, by Bob Van Laerhoven
Mr. Van Laerhoven is an artist with words who paints in all mediums.
He also has the ability to make you think and feel. In this collection of short stories his talent is on display with a heavier hand in horror and angst, and it works well. There is no sugar coating what the characters see and do, and yet it is so real, you can picture each part of it, and will find the stories will not go away when you finish them.
For instance, Drees the painter was cursed, no matter what he did, and to make matters worse his best friend’s spirit haunts him. The spirit has company in his guilt. The story is at once old and new, and everything in between. It even has a reference to the race driver, Sterling Moss. The noir is as thick as the betrayal, the revenge, and the retribution; it all ends up in a unrelenting drive to (hiding the spoiler).
From the story the Abomination there is a comparison: the Doctors Without Borders treat all the patients alike, including the murderers and their almost victims—all under one roof. “What do stupid Westerners know of the honour of hatred?” A line that stands out and reminds us that there is whole world out there of so many cultures and history, something Van Laerhoven describes so well.
This story in particular is multi-layered: the narrator is the murderer (honorably in his opinion) of many, and when he later meets one of his victims, he really sees what he did to a victim in the hospital room next to his. He remembers killing her sisters viciously, and yet he tries to atone. His solution is unexpected, except when you realize the circular beauty of retribution and (hiding spoiler) seems to be his unique way of resolving it all. These stories are wonderful, and unsettling, and should be on your list to read. Highly recommended.
Chad Miller has been writing dark fiction, horror, and mysteries for over 25 years. Deeply inspired by the works of Conan Doyle, Bram Stoker, and Kurt Vonnegut, he’s been studying to create his unique voice. Chad is a pharmacist and lives in Delaware. Chad enjoys playing guitar and going to the theater, museums, and being immersed in culture that large cities can provide.
If you had to recommend one of your books to young adults just leaving YA reading, which of your books should they start with, and why? The Confession. This is an historical mystery and follows my main character, Isabella from her childhood to young adulthood. Even though there are elements of horror and a few brutal scenes, we get an insight of the struggles of a young girl as she tries to navigate adolescence in the late 1800s.
How soon do you know you’ll kill off a particular character, and what told you to do it? I’m not an outliner, but I have specific plot points that I try to organically try to reach. Sometimes this is killing off a character, but other times the story drives itself. I firmly believe that no character is safe. I killed off my favorite character I had ever written because the story demanded it to happen. This even surprised and saddened me.
Which of your books was the hardest to write, and why? Prisoner of Despair. This book was heavily inspired by Bram Stoker’s Dracula. I tried to capture the feel of classic horror, so the novel is written in the epistolary style. The story is told through a series of diary entries and letters through multiple POVs. It was difficult to keep all the voices distinctive and keeping the timelines in order was tedious.
For your own reading, what genre (s) do you read? I’m all over the place. Lately I’ve been reading a lot of Neil Gaiman and Cormac McCarthy. I read almost any genre, except erotica or steamy romance. I just need a great story with great characters. Of course, classic horror is my favorite genre.
Tips from a reader: Gina Rae Mitchell
Navigating the Dreaded Reading Slump: Tips and Tricks
Reading slumps are like an unwelcome guest for avid readers—a period where no book seems to capture your interest or hold your attention. You may find yourself picking up book after book, only to put each one down after a few pages. It’s frustrating, especially when reading is usually a source of joy or escape. So, what causes reading slumps, and how can we break free from them?
First, it’s essential to recognize that reading slumps happen to everyone. Life can get busy, and distractions like work, stress, or fatigue can make it difficult to focus on books. Sometimes, it’s not the book—it’s you. Even the best story might not hold your attention when your mind is preoccupied.
The good news? There are plenty of ways to get out of a reading slump. One simple solution is to change the genre. If you’ve been diving into heavy historical fiction or intense thrillers, try something light and easy, like a romance or a fun mystery. Alternatively, reread a favorite book. Nostalgia can rekindle the joy of reading and remind you why you love books in the first place.
You can also try audiobooks. Sometimes, the act of physically reading can feel daunting, but listening to a book while doing other activities can help ease you back into the habit.
Lastly, give yourself permission to take a break. It’s okay to step away from reading for a while. Often, the desire to read comes back naturally when you’re not forcing it.
Remember, reading slumps are temporary, and your next great read is just around the corner!
What’s up next on the blog?
BBNYA(Book Bloggers Novel of the Year Award) has entered the finals stage. I have been assigned a few books to read for the final round. This year, my reading is a little bit curtailed due to vision issues. So, to make up for it (and in my excitement), I agreed to post 59 Spotlights featuring the semi-finalists over the next two months. This is on top of my regular Indie Author Reviews, Blog Tours, and weekly Friday Fun Finds. I might just be crazy!! Visit my website to follow along with the fun!
In case you have friends or family in London, Karen Haden will be speaking about her debut novel Paying in Blood at a Cheltenham Literature Festival Local Writer Event on Wed 9 Oct at 12.30pm in the Hub venue.
Available mid-October Richard Koreto’s The Cadieux Murders. The ink is still wet on the contract, but Wren Fontaine is already running into trouble as she renovates Cadieux House, a modernist masterpiece on Long Island’s exclusive Gold Coast. The home’s architect was the brilliant and eccentric Marius Cadieux. He was there that night in 1955 when a glittering party ended in a murder that 70 years later still hasn’t been solved.
Story Serializations. As frequently as possible, the Celwyn newsletter will have an ongoing serialization of stories of speculative, mystery, and any other genre I enjoy. If you miss any parts of the upcoming serializations, you can find them here:
Swango, book 6 of the series, finally has a release date: 12-29-24.
The blurb. A magician, a widower, and an automat travel the world… but nothing has prepared them for Swango.
In 1870s Singapore, Celwyn survives a vicious attack only to find it may take even more to endure his own family. His brother Pelaez has returned, insisting on his innocence, and their father Wolfgang Augustus Griffin has his sights set on Nemo’s marooned crew. As the Nautilus travels to Beirut, Prague, and Findbar Island, they encounter Swango, a seemingly innocent clairvoyant and drinking buddy from the magician’s past, a man who has more help with his predictions than most spiritualists. Meanwhile, Nemo must finally confront the secrets of his own past.
For book 7, Lucky and Mrs. Nemo: Finally, it is with the beta readers. Those lucky and kind souls. I’m excited about it because of the major changes in it, but also nervous that I’ve captured all the opportunities with it.
There isn’t an official blurb yet for Lucky and Mrs. Nemo, but Lucky is a character, literally and figuratively. Traditionally the personality of a scientist is dry. Not so for Lucky, who enjoys a good gunfight. She participates in the final bloody scene as they defend Findbar, and where they find the ghost of Mrs. Spencer in the mansion’s tower with her broadsword and a deadly attitude. The new genre introduced into the series in book 6 is active in book 7, and Kang and Bartholomew both wish it weren’t. Certain things scare them more than others.
Book 8: Although 130 pages of the handwritten first draft is still safely put away I have been thinking instead of continuing with it, letting it percolate like a confused cup of coffee.. More ideas have come to the surface, and they require a bit of fore-planning. Not if they’ll be included, but how.
The near future will have Pelaez still causing trouble, and Celwyn keeping the peace between his brother and Captain Nemo. Maybe Swango can be bribed to leave Pelaez somewhere in the future? Or Pelaez will reach the point where he wants to be the only untrustworthy member of the ensemble.
Shameless Buy Links to booksellers who carry the Celwyn series.
Why did Crackleton’s wife travel to Lincoln and die there? Apprentice Baxby vows to help his friend discover the truth. His loyalties will be tested, amidst Tudor court politics and espionage, but murder must out.
Karen Haden was born and raised in Portsmouth, but now lives in the South West of England with her husband and family. She graduated in engineering, then worked as a consultant for government clients, alongside volunteering as a prison chaplain. Using these experiences, Karen writes historical crime thrillers encompassing politics, espionage and spirituality, from the perspective of ordinary people.
Her debut novel Paying in Blood was published by Sharpe Books in March 2024.
How would you compare Paying in Blood to other styles of mysteries?
Set in England, during the last years of Queen Elizabeth I’s reign, Alexander Baxby’s quest to solve the mystery of a young woman’s suspicious death leads him into the murky world of Tudor politics and court rivalry.
More unusually, the novel shows their impact on ordinary people’s lives, as powerful statesmen and bishops exert increasing control through espionage, surveillance and limiting access to books. Baxby tells his story from gaol, so the precarious nature of early 17th century life is never far-away.
Of all your characters, which is the most like your personality?
Baxby shares character traits and life events with my late father and myself. Like many working in Defense and Security, we understood the need to keep secrets, even from closest family and friends, and the resulting tensions that can bring. I am glad to have retired from that environment to write.
Who is your favorite villain of all time and why?
Disney villains such as Cruella de Ville and Snow White’s wicked Queen remain strong favorites. Growing up, I was closer to my father than mother in a competitive home, which may explain my on-going fascination with the complexities of female malevolence and power.
Can a villain be sympathetic, or do good deeds to be redeemed?
In my childhood and whilst working as a consultant, I saw how minor differences can spiral into major conflict. Issues were rarely black and white. People with different perspectives often saw different parts of the whole.
As a result, my heroes and villains are more nuanced. Although courageous, loveable and loyal, Baxby has multiple weaknesses. Antagonist Archbishop Bancroft does what he deems necessary to protect national security, with lethal consequences.
Will there be a sequel to Paying in Blood, and if so, what will it focus on?
The next Alexander Baxby mystery will be published in the autumn of 2024, in which his attempts to start a new life in Amsterdam will be shaken by a series of unexplained deaths. Suspecting Bancroft’s spy-network has spread beyond England’s coast, Baxby’s own life will be threatened as he pursues the truth.
Deirdre and her sisters’ homecoming plans are disrupted when their parents are kidnapped. In their desperate search, they discover the Rebellion is building weapons that could end galactic civilization.
Kurt D. Springs is presently an adjunct professor teaching anthropology and archaeology in New Hampshire. He holds a PhD. in anthropology from the State University of New York at Buffalo, a Master of Literature in archaeology from the National University of Ireland, Galway, and a Master of Liberal Arts in anthropology and archaeology from the Harvard University Extension School. His main area of interest is megalithic landscapes in prehistoric Ireland.
What one aspect of sci fi makes it richer than the other? what are the drawbacks when writing one or the other?
There are many types of science fiction. Hard science fiction tries to stay true to the known rules of “how the universe works,” such as Einstein’s speed of light limit. Space Opera tends to hand-waive many rules for the sake of the story being told. To get from point A to point B in the galaxy, Gene Rodenberry’s Star Trek used “warp drive,” and George Lucas’s Star Wars used “hyperspace.” In Robert Silverberg’s stories, people traveled between galaxies using something he called “overdrive.” I use “interdimensional,” which is similar to warp drive. It allows me to tell a story that takes place within a reasonable length of time and explore other aspects of my universe. The drawback is that science purists can claim it is more like “science fantasy” because “you can’t travel faster than the speed of light without time dilation.” At least I’m in good company with Rodenberry, Lucas, and Silverberg.
In your upcoming book, did you change the personality of one of your characters to make them more interesting, less violent, more empathetic, etc. than the books preceding it?
In the last scene of Promise of Mercy, as Deirdre and her family step onto the tarmac of Etrusci, their home planet, her father says. “Did it really change that much since we left? Or are we the ones who have changed?” Promise of Mercy focuses on Deirdre and her identical triplet sisters, Aisling and Bayvin. The triplets are highly skilled but have only just finished advanced training. Their father, Liam, was the hero of Price of Vengeance and Legacy of Valor. Experience has changed Liam from a green junior officer to a seasoned veteran. Raising three girls and a boy also made him an experienced parent, which helped when he was befriended by Marisa, a retired Rebel leader whose little girl needed his help. This is more of a natural progression of his maturing as a person.
Deirdre experiences growth that almost mirrors that of her father. At the beginning of the story, she decides she should kill Marisa. By the end, she starts to have doubts. Hence the importance of the title. Marisa has a colorful career as a Rebel commander and scientist. We see her in Price of Vengeance after gathering Liam’s genetic material for her own project. By the vents of Promise of Mercy, she has become disillusioned by the Rebellion and regrets much of what she did during it.
Which of your books was the hardest to write, and why?
Legacy of Valor was the hardest to write of the books published to date. It involves a full-on battle on the moon of Treespo, which orbits the planet Beta Proximus IV. Liam was forced to take control of the division. Keeping the various parts of a multipart battle straight and interesting is not as easy as it sounds.
Will there be a sequel ?
I have three novels that are entering the editing stage before being sent to the publisher. Addiction of Power focuses on Liam’s son Aidan as he and Marisa’s daughter try to bring an end to the civil war. It is something of a romance between the two. Following that is Path of Redemption, where a minor villain from Promise of Mercy falls for Deirdre. I also have a prequel novel taking place 600 years before the events of Price of Vengeance.
(Was and Were are the most commonly used culprits)
Yes, certain writing styles call for some passive voice. I stress the word “some.” While a well-placed passive voice sentence can add to the stylistic allure of SteamPunk, or the period pieces of literary fiction, most of the time, (even within those examples) passive voice runs the risk of disengaging the reader from the flow of the scene.
When writing, it is all about showing and not telling.
We show the reader what is happening, we don’t tell them. This may sound strange as our job is to write words, so let me give you an example:
Passive voice.
1. There is a cast iron tea kettle on the stove, whistling. I knew the green tea had been steeping for a while because it had been whistling for five minutes.
Active voice.
2. A cast iron tea kettle whistles on the stove. Its high-pitched alarm rang through the kitchen for five straight minutes.
Forget the fact the sentences are basic. The first tells the reader what instead of showing—there’s a tea kettle whistling for five minutes.
Passive voice has a much harder time painting a picture.
Active voice brings the scene to life.
There are many ways to write passive and just as many to turn those phrases into active. Of course, passive voice cannot always be avoided. And, as stated, the occasional use is fine. But avoiding them makes for more engaging writing, and I think we all strive for that.
Here’s a way to practice with your writing. (I’m not selling anything) Get a free account with Pro Writing Aid or Grammarly. Make sure the passive voice alert is turned on. Go through your work and find a purple underlined sentence. Think of different ways you can restate the sentence in active voice. Sometimes a simple word substitution or two is all you’ll need. Other times, an overhaul will be needed. Practice and have fun with it.
We all write because we have stories inside us we feel we must tell. I’m here to help you tell them in the best voice you have.
Books On Your Terms: The Perks of Digital Reading and Audiobooks by Gina Mitchell
Digital reading and audiobooks have transformed the way we enjoy books, offering new levels of accessibility and convenience.
Digital reading is a game-changer for anyone who loves books but needs a more flexible approach. You can tweak the font size, change the background color, or even switch to a voice reading the text to you. This is especially helpful for people with visual impairments or reading difficulties. Plus, with e-books, your entire library fits in your pocket, making it easy to dive into a new story whether you’re on the bus, at the airport, or just lounging at home. And the best part? You can download a new book in seconds, opening up a world of stories at your fingertips.
Audiobooks are perfect for those moments when you want to read but need your hands and eyes free. Whether you’re driving to work, hitting the gym, or preparing dinner, you can immerse yourself in a story or learn something new without pausing your day. A good narrator can make a book come alive, adding layers of emotion and personality that make the experience even richer.
Together, digital reading and audiobooks make it easier to enjoy books wherever you are, fitting seamlessly into the flow of everyday life.
Aaron Ryan is the author of the bestselling “Dissonance” sci-fi alien invasion saga, the sci-fi thriller “Forecast”, the business reference books “How to Successfully Self-Publish & Promote Your Self-Published Book” and “The Superhero Anomaly”, several business books on voiceovers penned under his former stage name (Joshua Alexander), as well as a previous fictional novel, “The Omega Room.” Aaron has always had a passion for storytelling.
I currently admin a 32k member author group on Facebook that I, hmm, “inherited.” Author Evie Ryland administrated it for years but found that it had grown beyond her ability or desire to maintain, so she invited other admins to take over, and I stepped up. It’s a great group. The online groups are RIFE with scammers and swindlers promising marketing abilities, demo videos, reading jobs, etc., and we’ve really cleaned house in my group. I’m very grateful for the interactions that happen in there, although I always wish there were more.
How soon do you know you’ll kill off a particular character, and what told you to do it?
I’m more of a “pantser” in how I write, which, for those who are unfamiliar with the term, I’m more of an organic writer. I prefer to let the character take me where they want to lead me. That doesn’t mean that my writing is to the exclusion of mileposts, mile markers or guidelines off any kind…no: doing so would be sculpting a novel bereft of forward direction. Art mirrors life, and life just ‘happens’ to us. So I like to write in that style, and let events unfold that take me by surprise as well. That includes the death of a character, which I don’t really know about or plan until I’m pretty much right upon the death itself. That being said, there are times where I know I have to advance the mission of the protagonist, and sometimes there’s no greater catalyst than someone dying in order to set them on a path of resuming that mission with greater intent.
Which of your books was the hardest to write, and why?
Dissonance Volume III: Renegade was the hardest in terms of the series. It involved FAR more research than I’d ever conducted on a book before. There are a lot of military elements to it, and those military elements and details need to be authentic and correct. I conducted a ton of research with colleagues and friends who are or were in the military in positions of knowledge, and they were immeasurably helpful. I really strove for verisimilitude in my books, especially in Volume III. The last thing I would want is for a seasoned military vet to read that book and exclaim, “What?!?! That’s not even right. This author is out of his mind.” I’m very proud of how it turned out and the incredible direction I was given by my military friends.
Talk about how your series came about. What did you initially visualize for the theme? Did it lead to an idea for a new series?
I honestly just had plans to write a single book focusing on an alien invasion. I had no idea there would be so much of a robust subplot that demanded further exposition and investigation. There are a lot of great character arcs in here, tons of beautiful world building, wonderful stories and great backstories I needed to mine. So it ballooned into two, and then three installments, and then, my favorite: the prequel. The prequel has a TON of heart in it. I love all of them and am proud of all of them but that is, by far, my favorite. And now I’m working on another installment in the series! I have been trying to work on a brand new novel that is NOT “Dissonance”-related, but this universe keeps sucking me right back in! 😊
WM Gunn’s new novel will be available October 2024
THE TWO TERRORS OF TULELAKE
The horrors of World War II shocked the world. Americans believed it could never happen here…until it did.
Ichiro Hisakawa and his family were part of the American culture – living the American Dream – until February 19, 1942, when President Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066 that branded them “the others”. Taken from their homes and stripped of their lives and citizenship due to their ancestry, they endured deplorable conditions in the “relocation camps”. Typhus ran rampant through the camp, and riots were a daily occurrence. And for the first time, America was scornful. Life was difficult and the Hisakawa family did their best to endure it all.
However, 16-year-old Ichiro wasn’t prepared for the betrayal, murder, and escape that was waiting for him. And how did Bobby King, a sixteen-year-old from 2017, find himself in 1942 and befriend Ichiro?
A draft of the blurb of the upcoming Swango, book 6:
“The story opens in 1877 as Celwyn and his brother survive a vicious attack in Singapore. The atmosphere aboard the Nautilus is tense; not only has Pelaez returned (claiming his innocence for destroying the flying machine), but a third of Nemo’s crew is marooned in the city and under threat by Wolfgang, Celwyn’s father.
By the time the magician and the others leave Singapore, they are grieving; a member of their family has been murdered in Prague.
The magician’s first encounter with Swango is told as they plan for the Nautilus’ journey to the Castell de Ferro in Spain where Doctor Jurik Lazlo is hiding. Captain Nemo has been searching for him for a long time.”
Book 6 is through editing with my publisher, and the cover will be ready soon. Swango, will be available at the end of December. Warning: it contains a new genre. One that fits totally, and gives the ongoing story more freedom.
For book 7, Lucky and Mrs. Nemo: Finally, I’m almost done editing. By the time you read this newsletter, it will be complete and off to the beta readers. Either I’m getting pickier when I edit, or my writing is deteriorating. Whatever the cause, book 7 will be in good shape and my blood and sweat used for ink. I don’t cry over editing, I just get more tea.
There isn’t an official blurb yet for Lucky and Mrs. Nemo, but Lucky is a character, literally and figuratively. Traditionally the personality of a scientist is dry. Not so for Lucky, who enjoys a good gunfight. She participates in the final bloody scene as they defend Findbar, and where they find the ghost of Mrs. Spencer in the mansion’s tower with her broadsword and a deadly attitude. The new genre introduced into the series in book 6 is active in book 7, and Kang and Bartholomew both wish it weren’t. Certain things scare them more than others.
Book 8: 130 pages of the handwritten first draft is still safely put away until the book 7 edits have been finished and it has been beta read. This cuts down on confusing my brain. As a preview though, book 8 addresses the dangling danger at the end of book 7 most satisfactorily for those of us more bloodthirsty than others. Then things get worse.
The near future will have Pelaez still causing trouble, and Celwyn keeping the peace between his brother and Captain Nemo. Maybe Swango can be bribed to leave Pelaez somewhere in the future?
Shameless Buy Links to booksellers who carry the Celwyn series.
Smashwods Sale! Now is your best chance to find the entire ebook Celwyn Series collection for a promotional price at @Smashwords as part of their Annual Summer/Winter Sale! Find my books and many more at https://www.smashwords.com/shelves/promos/ all month! #SWSale2024 #Smashwords
An Interview with Author John Yunker
On a remote island off the coast of Tasmania, an Australian wilderness guide embarks on a four-day hike with six guests—and arrives at their destination with only two. An Interview with Author John Yunker
Bio
John Yunker is an Oregon-based author of the thrillers The Tourist Trail and Where Oceans Hide Their Dead. He is co-author with Midge Raymond of the forthcoming mystery Devils Island (Oceanview Publishing, 2024). Learn more at www.MidgeandJohn.com.
How would you compare Devil’s Island to regular mysteries?
I often refer to Devils Island as an eco-mystery because the environment and animal protection are overarching themes. But it more commonly described as a “locked-room mystery.” In this case, the locked room is a remote island off the coast of Tasmania. I think what might make it slightly unique is the novel’s set-up – we leveraged the five-act structure of Hamlet for the novel.
Which of your books was the hardest to write, and why?
My most difficult bulk to complete was Where Oceans Hide Their Dead. It took about seven years of writing and much more rewriting. This is the darkest novel I’ve written because it deals with some difficult and timely issues, like drug addiction and the horrors of the animal industrial complex.
Does your own reading stay within your writing genre, or do you read a different genre for yourself ?
I read across genres and my writing most likely reflects that, as sometimes my novels are called “literary” other times called “thrillers.” While I appreciate that a genre label help readers find books they want to read, as a writer, I worry that these labels get in the way of publishers taking chances on work that don’t fit cleanly into any one category.
Do you have a sample of what you discovered that was especially interesting when you did research for your books?
For Devils Island one of the most interesting bits of research is learning that the Tasmanian Devil, an animal about the size of a small dog can devour a large animal like a kangaroo within hours—muscle, organs, fat, bones, even fur—leaving nothing left.
Will there be a sequel to Devil’s Island, and if so, what will it focus on? and will it have a solid ending or leave things open for more?
We’ve left the door open to a sequel, one that would take place in Ashland, Oregon. So we’ll see. I have a difficult time letting go of characters, which often leads to sequels. In fact, my novel Where Oceans Hide Their Dead is a sequel of sorts to The Tourist Trail.
What do you think new authors should decide first, before they begin their book? Should it be who they are writing for (themselves or their audience)? Do you have other criteria you would suggest?
I always aim to write the book that I most want to read and I recommend writers do this as well. Because, in the end, regardless of whether you find an agent, a publisher or readers at the very least you will have pleased the most important reader of all: yourself. But, that said, during the editing stage it’s important to be able to see your work as other readers will see it. My partner Midge often quotes Stephen King: Write with the door closed; rewrite with the door open.
How important is site research for the location where your books take place, and why? What should a beginning writer consider about location in their novels?
Site research is the most exciting part of writing, particularly in the case of Devils Island, where we hiked the island off the coast of Tasmania where this novel takes place. While I don’t believe it’s essential to visit every place you write about, it certainly can’t hurt.
Can you see yourself using Ai in your books? On what part and why?
I’m amazed at how well AI engines produce cleanly written sentences. But humans are far messier, our voices more distinct, than any computer algorithm. I don’t really see AI as a threat to creative writing – though perhaps a threat to predicable and voiceless writing. That said, writers deserve to be compensated by any tech company that wants to scan their work to train their algorithms. The very reason AI appears “magical” is because it was trained on our hard work.
New Release Features
A local reporter and photographer’s canine search and rescue training at an abandoned farm outside of Fredericksburg, Texas, takes a bizarre twist. Riley Phillips’ dog, Milo, alerts on the real deal—a corpse with a bullet hole in his head.
Riley’s nose for news is already twitching over the gruesome discovery. When the body turns up missing, her spider senses kick into overdrive. Who doesn’t want the man identified, and why? Are her crime scene photographs the only clue?
What Riley’s camera captured puts the FBI Tracker Unit on high alert, and Riley in a killer’s crosshairs. Learning the identity of the mystery man takes on an ominous urgency.
Can FBI Tracker Cody Lightfoot and Riley find the answer in time to stop a deadly attack? Or will they be the next victims?
Discover a sanctuary within your mind. Written by psychologist Anne E. Beall, this book takes you on a series of serene adventures, from secluded forests to calm beaches, immersing you in vivid, tranquil scenes that foster relaxation and peace.
You’ll become engrossed in these meditation journeys, each guiding you deeper into its unique setting. As the main character of every story, you embark on a richly detailed adventure, with vivid imagery that transforms you into an active participant. Whether you’re wandering along pristine beaches, paddling to ancient lighthouses, or journeying towards enchanted royal castles, tranquil adventures await you, all from the comfort of your home.
This is more than just a book; it’s a companion for moments when you need to escape the stresses of the world, guiding you to a serene space within. Whether you choose to read in quiet solitude or listen as the narratives unfold, these journeys offer you a personal haven of tranquility.
Andy T. Hanson is an author of science fiction, general fiction and dystopian horror. After driving Abrams tanks in the US Army, Andy settled into life as a regional-stage actor. He parlayed that passion first into playwriting – most notable of which is Molly’s Chamber, his modern-day take on the old Irish folk song Whiskey In The Jar. He then graduating to screenwriting and achieved a quarter finalist statis for his script at a former Los Angeles Film Festival. On the strength of their modest success, he tried his hand at the ultimate goal; Sci-fi novels. His first foray into that magical world is The Despot Chronicles, a dystopian three-part epic series. Calamity, book 1, is set for release on 10/26/24 by 4 Horsemen Publications, Inc. Andy is thrilled to occupy a slot among their fantastic stable of authors.
Have you thought of writing nonfiction? If so, what kind, purpose, and time period? I plan to write a layman’s take on skepticism and stoicism and how embracing both has changed my outlook on life profoundly. Hopefully, I’ll get to work on that, as well as wrapping up a short story collection I currently have in the works.
Discuss an aspect of your writing process. I love using the 3rd person narrator, shifting viewpoints between various characters. You can give your reader little easter eggs peppered through each POV that has import for the character themselves, whether immediately or later, as well as connecting other POV arcs. All the while hints can be dropped for the overall conclusion. It is a wonderful way to create a feeling of a kind of whodunnit-type work for the reader, which captivates them and keeps the pages turning.
How many books will there be in this current series? What will it focus on? And will it have a solid ending, or leave things open for more? There will be three books in the Despot Chronicles series. I set out to editorialize, in a way, how tyrants and authoritarians take advantage of Calamity, as in book 1 of the Despot Chronicles, to establish their Control of their subjects, as in book 2, but ultimately they collapse in the end. The same occurs in book 3, because the power the authorities wield was built on sand. Sooner or later, they get exposed. The immediate story will have a satisfying and complete conclusion, while the wider world I’m building around the story will branch off from that conclusion.
For someone who hasn’t read your books, can you talk about the theme within the books? The theme is showing regular people who are placed in otherwise unthinkable situations. I want readers to commiserate with the characters and their decisions, and even understand the reasoning behind the some of the choices of the characters—some of which they won’t approve, and thus learn something true about themselves and humanity in general along the way.
YouTube News
An Interview with Nick Savage
Nick Savage began writing at a young age starting with music and developing lyrics before transitioning to screenplays and finally into novels. He grew up in Chicagoland studying creative writing and music. In the Windy City he was surrounded by a love of good food and endless things to inspire him. After getting married, he and his wife moved to Florida. Currently, they live outside Orlando and enjoy spending time with their two cats or going to the magical kingdom.
Describe what happened when you killed off one of your favorite characters? Do you think it is necessary to do this to keep a series fresh? Or does knowing their favorite character is safe endure readers to you? When killing off one of my favorite characters, I always do so when necessary. I don’t believe that any character in a book should be wearing plot armor to be safe. The West Haven Undead series has many deaths and all are needed to drive the story forward. I think readers are drawn to me to see who dies next over knowing they are safe.
Is there something about your books/your point of view that you think readers should know?
A Vampire Named Allison is a great look at mental health issues told from a left-field sort of way. To me, having those deep metaphors makes any writing more enduring and relevant than stories without symbolism and subtext.
Can you see yourself using Ai in your books? On what part and why.
AI is a tricky subject. I will never use AI nor will I ever condone the use of it as a substitute for thought in writing. But that same AI can be used as a great tool. Grammar and spell checkers run on AI and while far from perfect, help on that end.
Does your own reading stay within your writing genre, or do you read a different genre for yourself?
My reading varies greatly. I love true crime but could never write that. While I do love fantasy novels, I also write romance, but hate reading it. I think my childhood scarred me against it, especially Regency romance. I loathe the idea of a damsel in distress saved by a knight in shining armor. I think that trope has contributed to many false expectations of what love and relationships should be.
How many books will there be in this current series? what will it focus on? and will it have a solid ending or leave things open for more?
After A Vampire Named Allison, there is only one more book in the series. Five books in all. While the story in this series will be wrapped, because it’s contemporary, the world is open for new stories within the universe.
How Do You Name Your Novels?
Authors from past newsletter issues were asked how they named their books:
Finding the right title is always an interesting journey for me. Sometimes, it throws itself at my feet, and, other times, it takes a moment to present itself. In every instance, when the title does come to me, I always know when it’s the right one. Somehow, it fits like a shoe does for the right-sized foot.
Tricia T. LaRochelle, author of the award-winning Sara Browne Series and Sun in My Heart.
Since mine are modern-day re-imaginings of Jane Austen’s books, I make sure the title reflects some word or concept from the original novel, while reflecting on what my book is about. A.R. Farina Author of Welcome to Mansfield.
Tony Farina, author of Welcome to Mansfield
My cover designer suggested the current title for The Techno Mage, as the one I’d had was difficult to pronounce. My mum suggested the title for Rise of the Sky Pirate, and I loved it so much, I kept it. For the Elementals trilogy, I thought up individual titles that made sense with one another as well as within the urban fantasy genre.
S.W. Raine, author of Rise of the Sky Pirate
I name my novels in two ways. First, I use a working title that gets the point across to me and motivates me to write. Most of the time, (I think only one book has kept its working title) they change after I’ve written. Once I’m done with the manuscript, I try and find a line within that speaks to a title feel while capturing what the book is about. Short of that, I write a list and revise it until it doesn’t suck.
Nick Savage, author of A Vampire Names Allison
In my Cabin by the Lake Mysteries I started each book with “Death of …” because I wanted to indicate that these were murder mysteries and each title would tell the reader something about the victim. In my Liza and Mrs. Wilkens series “The Death of Goldie’s Mistress” the title came naturally because Goldie is a cat and it’s her owner who has died.
Linda Norlander, author of The Death of Goldie’s Mistress
I strive for a balance between meaningful and marketable – a pitch which slides off the tongue. My goal is for a title that’s memorable like a catchy song or repeated phrase. Titles like “Roman’s Reckoning” and “Mikael’s Moment” were easy to create. “Grabbing A Slice of Minnesota Nice” was trickier, but I think it carries that special sauce which audiences will remember – even if they don’t remember every detail in the book itself.
Lucas LaMont, Author of The Chronicles of Fate Series
I called my first book “A Sweet and Fitting Death.” It came from a poem by the Roman poet Horace: “It is sweet and fitting to die for one’s country.” The publisher thought that WAY too over the top and changed it to “Death on the Sapphire,” after the fictional Sapphire river, where much of the book takes place. From then on, I kept simple: “The Greenleaf Murders” and “The Turnbull Murders.”
Richard Koreto, author of The Turnbull Murders
Their names always refer to an essential feature, origin, cause, main character or place—a foundation, without which the story would crumble.
Taggart Rehnn, Author of The Door:Souls in Peril
My novel titles are an explanatory metaphor of the stories themselves. For my first novel, Mackinac Island Nation, it meant that the small island was about to become its own country. My upcoming novel’s title, Whither Utopia, is a play on words: Whither means “where,” but it sounds like “wither,” which implies Utopia is dying, which is actually what’s happening.
Erik Deckers, author of Mackinac Island Nation
In my cozy mystery series starring three senior citizen ladies, I have used plays on words. The first, about a jewel robbery, was condensed from There’s No Jewel Like an old Jewel, to simply Old Jewels. The second, No Stone Unturned, takes place at Stone Mountain, Georgia. The third, Hare Today, Gone Tomorrow, involves a lost rabbit, a dog, and a murder. It’s a fun challenge.
Pat Pratt, author of Hare Today Gone Tomorrow
I name my books based on an overall theme. Or, I wait for the title to work its way out of the narrative. Sometimes it’s already named at the beginning of writing it, other times it’s when I’m editing for the 5th time!
Ty Carlson, author of The Bench
Typically, the title will come from a phrase or word in the story. It is a rare occasion, I know the title in advance. It still doesn’t mean I will use my first selection. It all depends on how many other books have been written with the same title.
Anita Dickason, author of the Iris Code
I have always wanted to become a highly literate poet. Fate decided otherwise and turned me into a noir storyteller. Stubborn as I am, I tried to write my books in a poetic style. But the most excellent satisfaction I garnered from my lyrical book titles. What, for instance, do you think of “Scars Of The Heart,” “The Left-hand Path of Tantra,” “Cadavre Exquis,” “Seven Letters To My Call-Girl,” and many more?
Bob Van Laerhoven, author of Scars of The Heart
For my most recent book and I got that title after thinking through about 40 different options. I decided I wanted to do a series and Embracing would be the name of the series, and the focus of this particular one would be about finding inner calm.
Anne Beall, author of Embracing Calm: Meditation Journeys for Inner Peace
I believe that the title of a book should reflect the essence of the story with a twist to interest readers. Brick, Lime and Moonshine is about employees who work for Washington brick and lime company until it closes during the Great Depression. They become rumrunners and create the Brick and Lime Club where friends can drink illegal liquor. The odd relationship between brick, lime and moonshine is the twist.
Victoria Ventris Shea, author of THE GHOSTS OF WHIDBEY ISLAND
In the case of Devils Island, the title came easily as the book concerns the Tasmanian Devil, which has been struggling due to a contagious disease. A number of the non-infected devils were relocated to a remote island off the coast of Tasmania (which is true). And the locals now refer to the island as “Devils Island” (not true).
John Yunker, co-author of Devils Island (coming September 2024 from Oceanview Publishing)
My first historical fiction novel is part of a biblical quote, the second book is a famous song title from the 1920s, and the third of this series (July release) is named after the main character. My thriller had a different working title, but included a date that created a muddy transition from title page to prologue to first chapter, so I changed it to the last sentence of the first chapter.
Mim Eichmann, author of TAYVIE’S STORY (2024).
I changed the title of Chasing the Sun when I realized the sequence of action moved across the Continental United States just as the sun does. Holmes, Moriarty, and the Monkeys involved members of the Holmes and Moriarty Society, including statues of the three mystical monkeys sitting on the fireplace hearth. They were mysteriously joined by the fourth monkey, Sezaru.
Bill Gunn, author of Chasing the Sun
For the Transit series, I’m very specific about the meaning. Normally, it comes from the epigraph, but sometimes, it’s more obscure. The title must include the theme, if possible. For some standalone books, however, the title comes to me with the idea. For example, Beneath Gehenna came from my original scribbled notes, as did the Beans of Anafi. —Benjamin X. Wretlind is the author of the Transit anthropological sci-fi series and many other novels.
What is New with the Celwyn Series?
What is new with the Celwyn Series?
Book 6 is through editing and my publisher has ordered the cover. Yeah! Swango, will be out late this year and spells a shift in genre for the fun-loving magician and his band of merry men. You still have time to read book 5, The Wyvern, the Pirate and the Madman—which is a set-up for book 6.
Here is what will probably be the final version of the blurb for book 6:
“A magician, a widower, and an automat travel the world… but nothing has prepared them for Swango. In 1870s Singapore, Celwyn survives a vicious attack only to find it may take even more luck to endure his own family. His brother Pelaez has returned, insisting on his innocence, and their father Wolfgang Augustus Griffin has his sights set on Nemo’s marooned crew. As the Nautilus travels to Beirut, Prague, and Findbar Island, they meet Swango, a seemingly innocent clairvoyant and drinking buddy from the magician’s past, a man who appears to have more help with his predictions than most spiritualists. Meanwhile, Nemo must finally confront the secrets of his own past.
When the magician and the others leave Singapore, they are grieving; a member of their family has been murdered in Prague.”
Book 7 opens as the Nautilus journeys to the Castell de Ferro on the southern Iberian coast in Spain where Doctor Jurik Lazlo is hiding. Captain Nemo has been searching for him for a long time.
For book 7, Lucky and Mrs. Nemo, progress has been made since the last newsletter. It is always good to report progress, even if a few unexpected things occur along the way that make things interesting. Sometimes I know what I meant to say, and sometimes it is a mystery. Celwyn and company are adjusting to what Swango has wrought; and some of them are more gracious about it than others. There has been another attack on Findbar Island by a mysterious villain who is after the flying machine. This time it isn’t Pelaez, but that doesn’t mean Celwyn’s brother is innocent at all.
Miss McFein, the beautiful vampire Celwyn is in love with, discovers the ghost of Findbar and is thankful she can run fast. The new scientist, Doctor Martha Gluck, known as Lucky to her friends, has joined them to take over the construction of the flying machine. She is also an American sharpshooter and can drink them under the table. And Lucky is quite fortunate, perhaps lucky; she meets Pelaez during an extremely dangerous situation he finds her fascinating.
Book 8 is still safely put away (130 pages of the first draft) until I have book 7 under control and mostly edited. At the rate I’m going, that is late July. I couldn’t feel virtuous going forward with it unless book 7 is on track.
The near future holds another companion book for the series, untitled, and it will star Pelaez while he demonstrates his devious ideas of fun.
The Science Fiction Writers of America Stance on the use of AI
The Science Fiction Writers of America provided the following info when I asked their official opinion of Ai.
So much hair, so little time, and no editing help.
An Interview with Eric Deckers, author of Mackinac Island Nation
Erik Deckers has been a professional blogger and ghostwriter since 2009 and is the co-author of four social media marketing books. He published his first novel, Mackinac Island Nation, in 2019; his second, Whither, Utopia, will be released in 2024. Erik has been blogging since 1997, and a newspaper humor columnist since 1994. For Spring 2016, Eric was the Writer-in-Residence at the Jack Kerouac House in Orlando. and is now the president of their board of directors.
Mackinac Island Nation is a historical thriller that twists and turns through an unforgettable plot.
When you were writing this book or previous books, did the plot flow just as you initially wanted it to look, or did you have to change anything major? I always worry that I don’t rewrite my books enough. I have one friend who rewrote his entire manuscript 3 or 4 times. Another guy I know rewrote his manuscript 17 times! He would print out the previous one, stick it in a drawer, and then rewrite the whole thing. That always seemed a little precious to me and maybe a bit of fear. I pretty much know what I’m going to say the first time. I plan my books out and then just write everything down in the first draft. There may be things I have to change, but they’re minor. I know what I want the characters to do and say, I know how I want the story to end, so I just write the story until we reach there. It could be that I’m not torturing myself enough in the writing and rewriting, but not enough that I’m going to actually do anything about it. For now, it’s just a low-grade nagging in the back of my brain.
Can you see yourself using AI in your books? On what part and why? I use AI as a tool for brainstorming new ideas. When I ghostwrite nonfiction, I use Otter.ai to transcribe the interviews. But for actual creation? Not at all: AI doesn’t write with heart, and it doesn’t engage.
Which of your books was the hardest to write, and why? My first novel, Mackinac Island Nation. At that time I had a writing residency at the Jack Kerouac House in Orlando, and it gave me terrible impostor syndrome. I worked hard to fight the feeling because it dogged me. I had to ignore my fears and focus on my work.
Does your own reading stay within your writing genre, or do you read a different genre for yourself? I love reading humor and satire because that’s primarily what I write. But I also love reading mysteries. I would like to write mysteries, but it hasn’t happened yet.
It looks like you also write nonfiction. Is there more of that in your future? Yes, constantly. My first four books were all nonfiction (on social media and branding), and my novel was my first attempt at book-length fiction. I will be doing a lot more fiction AND nonfiction in the future.
Will there be a sequel to Mackinac Island Nation, and if so, what will it focus on? Will it have a solid ending or leave things open for more? My second novel, Whither Utopia, is a sort of sequel. It takes place in the same universe as the first, but it’s 40 years in the future, and all the world’s conservatives are dead from another pandemic. Some minor characters and their children from this book appear in the second one. My current novel is not a sequel.
What is in a Name?
How do writers find names for their characters?
A few words on Names… (her name is Wolfie)
Look to the future. If you are writing under your real name, will it some day reflect on your personal or professional life? Or the reverse, will it help your sales to have your real name connected to your genre?
You might want to consider a nom de plume for your writing. I use my middle and maiden name. Also, for your social media name it is very helpful to have the word “author” or “writer” in it,. Even if you are new and aren’t ready to use certain social media for your writing, lock down the name you want now. Also, if you are satisfied with your site’s name, then great, otherwise, it would be good to get a book centric domain too.
Character names are important, and they should either match the character’s skills/traits, persona, or visual of them, or be the opposite. A character who is the opposite of what their name suggests is memorable. Example: in Clockwork Dynasty by Daniel Wilson, the female protagonist—who was brave and fearless—-was named June.
Where to find names? You will run into them long before you need them, and a tip is to keep a running list. Texting or emailing yourself when you see one is an idea among others, or an ap.
You can find great names in:
the credits at the end of tv shows, magazines, or movies, or acknowledgements in books. Sometimes, you will see half a name ( eek! copyright. Don’t use the whole thing) in other books, commercials, blurbs for other books (not necessarily in your genre), and there is always traditional old-fashioned names.
You can also make names up. One I made, or had never seen, was Mrs. Pentafax (she ended up as a little old lady). I think I was looking through an office supply catalog at the time. Or if you see a great one already used, you can change the spelling of it. And don’t be afraid to combine them.
More Name Sources Internet sites for: baby names, foreign baby names, historical sites, the listings at cemeteries, businesses, magazine (foreign too) articles, names of ships, city maps of interesting towns/cities in Europe.
Someday you might discover a name that actually suggests a character to you……
An Interview with JP Corwyn, author of The Drums of Unrest
JP Corwyn is a legally blind Military Fantasy/Horror author, singer, songwriter, and composer. His genre tags—Blind, Indie, Rock and Blind Indie Prose—aren’t simply pretentious and snarky!
Corwyn started the Cycle of Bones series in early 2019 as an indie author. In 2023, he was approached by and signed with 4 Horsemen Publications. The new books, The Drums of Unrest and The Eaters ofTime will be available August 2024.
Were any of the magical creatures in “The Drums of Unrest” based on creatures from real-world folklore?
In Drums—specifically, only one thing fits that particular bill: the Vodník. The major location in the early parts of the series is the Duchy of Kovalun, which is based largely on Czech and Estonian cultures. The Vodník found an easy home there beside creatures either partially, or fully, of my own design.
It is highly unusual to find an author who marries his music to his prose. Can you talk about the music Silver in the Skies from The Cycle of Bones, original soundtrack?
I am, as far as I know, the only author who composes, produces, performs, and records his own soundtracks. At least so far. That song is a moment in time within the prequel: The Dawn of Unions. It’s the memory of a moment just before a particular battle begins, penned by a survivor of that battle, and is based on an earlier instrumental piece that serves as Countess Ylspeth’s theme. It seems to have resonated with fans, which is flattering, as always.
Do you find writing action scenes stimulating or difficult?
I get asked this a lot. There are authors who act out some of what they write. I spent nearly a decade fighting in armor (and loving every minute of it) before 2017. At that point, my continued vision loss made that impossible. While I miss it terribly, as many of my fellow combatants say, “life’s hard. Wear a helmet.” When I eventually picked up the proverbial pen, I came to a conclusion—one I’ve often been quoted for in the years that followed: “If I can’t describe what it’s like training or fighting in armor, or standing in the shield wall, what the hell was I doing all those years?” I don’t want you to feel as if you’ve watched or read about a battle sequence. Instead, I want you to feel as if you were there in that battle. I want you to stand shoulder to shoulder with Kaith, Kastan, Eobum, Lashjuk, Geroslaw, and all the rest who were there.
Avid bibliophiles need a reading list. It doesn’t have to be in-depth or chiseled in stone, but it helps to keep you on track and avoid reader burnout. Here are a few essential tips to get you started on the road to better reading.
Before you start building your list, let’s take a look at your goals. Determine why you’re reading each book. Are you looking to learn something new, entertain yourself, or achieve personal growth? Having clear goals helps you choose books that align with your objectives. This is usually the most essential aspect of building a personalized reading list.
Now, you can start making a reading list that suits you and brings you joy.
Diversify your genres: You should include a mix of genres to keep your reading interesting and broaden your perspective. Try to balance fiction with non-fiction, classics with contemporary works, and include authors from various cultural backgrounds.
Recommendations: Consider books recommended by friends, family, or trusted sources. Recommendations often come with personal insights that can enhance your reading experience.
Research: Before adding books to your list, research the authors and read reviews. This will help ensure that the book aligns with your interests and expectations. Nothing is worse than starting a book only to find that its views and values don’t mesh with your beliefs.
Limit Your List: Keep your reading list manageable. Instead of having an overwhelming number of books, maintain a list of top-priority reads and revisit it regularly to update and refine it. This is possibly the most challenging tip for avid readers. We want to read everything…now!
Balance Length and Complexity: Mix shorter, lighter reads with longer, more complex ones to prevent burnout and keep your reading momentum going. After I finish a heavy book, such as a psychological thriller, I find a light romantic comedy or historical fiction cleanses the palate. Read the rest of the list here:
Following these tips, you can create a reading list tailored to your interests and goals, keeping your reading experience enjoyable and fulfilling. This will help you become a lifelong reader who thoroughly enjoys all aspects of reading.
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Speaking of lists, here’s a peek at a “few” of my upcoming June reviews just to show you the diversity of what I review on my blog.
The Rosy Dream, Books 1 & 2, by Matt Duggan (Ostraca & In Extremis) – Mystery, Thriller & Suspense Literary Fiction
Exiles by LJ Ambrosio (Book 3 in the Reflections of Michael Trilogy) – Coming of Age Fiction
Rock, Crush, Roll by Hunter Snow – Rockstar Contemporary Romance
Cornbread, Ribs, and Murder by Brenda Whiteside (Chocolate Martini Sisters Mystery) – Cozy
My Gangster Father and Me by Marcia Rosen – Memoir
The Celwyn Series YouTube channel
An Interview with A. R. Farina, author of Welcome to Mansfield!
A.R. Farina is the author of the Austen Chronicles series from 4Horsemen Publishing. He shares an empty nest with his librarian wife, and they enjoy reading books and watching sunsets. He is a college professor with a M.A. Ed. and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing. Fun fact: he hosts a weekly podcast on the Comics in Motion Podcast network where he critically analyzes indie comics and graphic media.
Welcome to Mansfield is a modern-day, coming-of-age retelling of the classic Jane Austen story filled with heartache and friendship.
1. Is there something about your books or your point of view that you think readers should know? The narrator of the Austen Chronicles has an opinion and speaks directly to the reader all the time. It is personal. The narrator will say, “Don’t worry Dear Reader.” and things like that. It is a different way to do third person, and makes the narrator feel like part of the cast.
2.Of all the characters in the books, which is the most like your personality? The character of Julia is the most like me. She is altruistic to a fault, and that holds her back as much as it propels her.
3.Will there be a sequel to Welcome to Mansfield, and if so, what will it focus on? Will it have a solid ending or leave things open for more? Yes! It is a series. I am doing a modern retelling of Jane Austen’s books in a shared universe. So each book is stand-alone, and the characters interact. Book 2 comes out in October and book 3 is with the editor. I am starting book 4 now.4. Do you have your next book’s plot already in your head? Could we have a preview? Books 2 and 3 are prequels to book 1, so book 4 is a direct sequel. We meet the character Jane Fairfax in the first book briefly, and we are going to follow her journey as she grows as a person and a songwriter.
5. Can you see yourself using Ai in your books? Never ever ever. I would rather write a book that sucks and has a soul, than a perfectly acceptable book that doesn’t.6. What do you think new authors should decide before they begin their book? Should it be who they are writing for (themselves or their audience)? They should know what story they want to tell for themselves. The most harsh critic and most important member of the audience is in the mirror.
7 Are there books in another genre in your future?For sure. This series is full of YA books set in the modern world. I have some essay collections coming out soon. I also have some ideas for a dark short story collection for adults. The working title is Unresolved. Each story ends with an open question of what happens next. I also have thought about retelling some of the horror classics from minor characters’ perspectives. An example is telling Frankenstein from Elizabeth’s point of view.8. Does your own reading stay within your writing genre, or do you read a different genre for yourself?I read anything. I usually have several books going at once to keep the ADHD happy. I am currently listening to a classic, realistic fiction novel as an audiobook, I am reading a horror comic omnibus, and because my day job is that of a college professor, I am always reading research papers.
An Interview with Richard Walter author of Deadpan
Richard Walter is an author of best-selling fiction and nonfiction, celebrated storytelling educator, screenwriter, script consultant, lecturer and a retired professor who led the screenwriting program in the film school at UCLA for several decades. He has written scripts for the major studios and television networks; lectured on screenwriting and storytelling and conducted master classes throughout the world. His new novel, Deadpan, published by Heresy Press, is available for order now.
….there is a priceless joke at the end of this interview…..
1. You are a fan of magical realism. Give us your definition of this genre and what are its advantages to an author?
Magical realism describes narratives about the fantastic and fantastical, incredible events in an everyday, rational, believable voice.
2. Does your own reading stay within your writing genre, or do you read a different genre for yourself?
No. I hold that there are only two genres: good writing and bad writing. The former is engaging; the latter is boring. I read as much nonfiction as fiction, perhaps even more so.
3. Is there something about your books/your point of view that you think readers should know?
I believe all literature is about the same theme: identity. Who am I? How do I know I really am the person I believe myself to be?
In Deadpan, an anti-semite has thrust upon the protagonist the identity of a Jew, and not just any Jew, but the world’s most popular standup comedian.
4. When you were writing this book or previous books, did the plot flow just as you initially wanted it to look, or did you have to change anything major?
For me, writing is an evolutionary enterprise. Throughout the process, story, character, action, and dialogue are constantly changing. When I get started, I compose an outline of the plot; then, as I move through the through the narrative, I gradually throw the outline away.
5. Talk about your non-fiction side.
I have actually written three nonfiction books about screenwriting. I don’t mind bragging that the world’s largest publisher, Penguin/Random House, has had them in print for thirty-five years and has sold over a hundred thousand copies. In those books I argue that there is only one rule that cannot be broken, including this one: There are no rules.
In my most recent such title, Essentials of Screenwriting, I insist that screenwriters must start with an outline, and then throw it away. This does not mean, I continue, that you can suddenly cut to, say, the 1955 World Series at Ebbets Field in Brooklyn.
In my new novel Deadpan, I suddenly cut to the 1955 World Series at Ebbets Field in Brooklyn.
Richard’s social links: Social links: Subscribe to his podcast onSubstack and blog onMedium, and follow him on Twitter and Facebook.
Book 6 is nearly through Editing with my publisher, and it is always a surprise to see how much of it comes flying back to me to approve the changes, or figure out what I really meant. Sometimes it is a festival of corrections, sometimes I wonder if I really wrote it. Swango,the TranslatorLied will be out late this year, and when the cover is ready, I’ll reproduce it here.
A rough draft of the blurb of Swango: The story opens in 1877 as Celwyn and his brother survive a vicious attack in Singapore. The atmosphere aboard the Nautilus is tense; not only has Pelaez returned (claiming his innocence for destroying the flying machine), but a third of Nemo’s crew is marooned in the city and under threat by Wolfgang, Celwyn’s father.
When the magician and the others leave Singapore, they are grieving; a member of their family has been murdered in Prague.
The magician’s first encounter with Swango is told as they plan for the Nautilus’ journey to the Castell de Ferro in Spain where Doctor Jurik Lazlo is hiding. Captain Nemo has been searching for him for a long time.
For book 7, Lucky and Mrs. Nemo, progress has been made since the last newsletter. About 250 pages of the hand-written first draft are now digitalized and there’s only about 85 more pages to go (thank God). I can’t compose with a keyboard, and it is what it is. If I were a violent person, every time Dragon decided to invent what it thinks I said, or call Kang “Came” I would blast away with something to blow the software back to where it came from. This is after making several tutorials with the software and trying to teach it individual frequently used words.
Book 8? I have it safely put away (130 pages of the first draft) until I have book 7 successfully input (despite Dragon) and edited. At the rate I’m going, that is July.
The near future holds another companion book for the series, untitled, and it will star Pelaez demonstrating his untrustworthy and devious ideas of fun.
An Interview with a Volunteer for Engin
Sharon Ruth Hensley applied and was accepted to volunteer with Engin December 2023.
What motivated you to join Engin? Had you ever tutored anyone before? In my younger years I enjoyed working as a childcare provider. Aside from the disability rights advocacy group I’m a member of, I had not volunteered in a formal capacity since 2019. I was considering what organization to become involved with last year and discovered Engin through volunteer match.org. I researched Engin and decided it was a good fit. Being able to teletutor is a positive for multiple reasons. And I have long been interested in cultural exchange, history, and travel. Although I have prior tutoring experience, I had not previously worked with an EFL or ESL student (English as a Second Language experience is not required). It has been a positive experience overall.
Engin does not require a degree or classroom time for their tutoring volunteers. Is there a skill you think they do need to have? Some Individuals with strong English and Grammar skills can successfully tutor without a degree, especially if they have equivalent experience, but I think a less simplified version of Engin’s application and interview process might be better. It also helps to be patient and personable.
If you were to take on a second student, would you prefer one that is still in university or in the workforce? Would you prefer a beginner, intermediate, or advanced student? I intend to begin working with multiple students now that my personal and professional schedule has become less hectic. My current student attends school and has a job. I have no preference. An advanced student makes my role easier, but I am willing to work with beginners. When the student wants to learn and makes the effort, I’m happy to help.
Could you describe the support Engin gives a volunteer like yourself? Is there anything else you think would be helpful? I am not well versed in everything they offer. When I saw the option to have a mentor, I immediately requested one. My mentor was able to answer all the questions I had before my first session. The monthly volunteer Zoom meetings are likely beneficial, but I haven’t been able to take advantage of them yet. Both of those can potentially help volunteers better manage any negative impact sessions have on them. Empathetic individuals can become emotionally overwhelmed when regularly interacting with those in difficult situations. I discuss some aspects of my volunteer work with my therapist and am able to properly process accompanying emotion. Some people don’t realize they need therapy, are resistant to it, or are unable to access it. It might be helpful for Engin to periodically check in with volunteers about their psychological state.
Many tutors become friends with their students even after their sessions stop. Do you see yourself doing that? Becoming friends with future students is a possibility. I do intend to stay in touch with my current student. She is an exceptional young woman. I am hoping her future is a happy and healthy one
In this issue: The Celwyn Series book signing, MWA news, a reader’s POV, reviews, and an article on book trigger warnings.
Celwyn’s Cats
She has read all the books in the series, have you?
Book Signing!
Please join us on May 4th from 2-4 p.m. Barnes and Noble 1530 Black Lake Blvd. Olympia, WA.
Lou Kemp will be signing all of the books in the Celwyn series, including book 5, The Wyvern, the Pirate, and the Madman. Mystery writer Linda Norlander will also be there, signing The Death of Goldie’s Mistress and her Cabin by the Lake Series.
Linda Norlander has been busy. Not only will she be signing copies of her new book on 5-4-24 in Olympia, but she also has a new short story in this year’s Malice Domestic’s anthology Mystery Most Devious. Her story is called, The Plan.
There will be some copies of Left Coast Crime’s new anthology on the table, too.
An opinion from author Benjamin X. Wretlind. If you have questions or a rebuttal of the issues raised here, please forward them through the Loukemp.com contact page.
1. Are trigger warnings needed? When are they mandated and does that need to change?
In my opinion, trigger warnings are not needed and should not be mandated. Books have contained challenging and potentially upsetting content throughout history, and readers can choose what they are comfortable with. Mandating trigger warnings infringes on creative freedom and treats readers like children who can’t think for themselves. In the same breath, however, I agree with the argument that times are changing as have reader perceptions. That is not necessarily a good thing. Mandating anything in the creative realm is a step in the wrong direction.
Trigger warnings were initially designed to assist individuals with posttraumatic stress (PTSD) symptoms in determining whether or not to engage with potentially triggering material; however, they have been linked to perpetuating avoidant behaviors that sustain the PTSD. Temporary relief can be obtained by avoiding trauma reminders, but persistent avoidance is connected to long-term psychological disorders and heightened posttraumatic stress symptoms (Pineles et al., 2011).
2. Do trigger warnings violate freedom of speech?
This is a different question. There is an argument that trigger warnings are a violation of free speech, and yet I don’t necessarily buy into that absolutist opinion. In 1975 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that “[T]he Constitution does not permit the government to decide which types of otherwise protected speech are sufficiently offensive to require protection for the unwilling listener or viewer. Rather, … the burden normally falls upon the viewer to avoid further bombardment of [his] sensibilities simply by averting [his] eyes.” (Erznoznik v. City of Jacksonville, 1975).
Yes, trigger warnings can be considered a form of censorship that stigmatizes certain content and pressures authors to avoid difficult topics. But they also give people the freedom to walk away from something they might feel would be triggering. Free expression means authors should be able to write what they want without warnings being forced upon their work by others, but if not including it impinges on the right to be free from triggering content, then does it constitute a violation of another’s right? I will argue that in a university or school setting, trigger warnings—while well-intended—can be used as a get out of class free card which is one reason the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) is against them.
As someone who does not sit on the U.S. Supreme Court, though, I would have to say “I have no idea” to this question.
3. Do trigger warnings help or hurt sales?
My gut reaction is that trigger warnings likely hurt sales overall, and yet I have no data to back that up. They might make books seem more controversial and off-putting than they really are. I don’t know. Most people read to be challenged, not coddled. There is an argument that the small minority who demand trigger warnings probably don’t read that much anyway, but I doubt that’s true, either.
Typically, trigger warnings are a specific type of content warning designed for those who have experienced trauma or PTSD. Content warnings, however, are different, and that’s where the problem with this whole argument lies. Someone who suffers clinically from PTSD may be “triggered” by content that reminds them of past events. In this case, they probably wouldn’t buy or read that book and having a heads up may help. But can we stop calling them “trigger warnings” then? They are, in fact, content warnings like the kind you see handed out by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA). Tell me in one or two letters what I can expect from this book, and I’ll decide if it’s worth my time.
Again—I WILL DECIDE. Not the government, not a publisher, not some arbitrary committee made of members who do not know me.
There is no BAA (Book Association of America), and please don’t argue that it should be the government that sets up a censorship body. That’s frightening, and also goes back to my first point: trigger warnings should not be mandated. You want to put them in, put them in. You want to leave them out, leave them out.
4. Should an author have a say in trigger warnings (content or even having them) whether an indie or with a publisher? Freedom of speech should cover any lawsuit, if at all, right?
The author should absolutely have the final say on any content warnings, if they are even included at all. It’s the author’s intellectual property and creative work. No one, including publishers, has the right to label or categorize an author’s writing against their will. And yes, lawsuits challenging compelled trigger warnings on First Amendment grounds would likely succeed. See the case of Erznoznik v. City of Jacksonville (1975). If that gets overturned, I would recant this statement.
5. Considering books for children are in the children’s areas in bookstores, is this trigger needed?
I despise this argument. Physically, we can say someone is a child at this or this age, but mentally, children can be physically much older. I really don’t believe trigger warnings are needed for children’s books—remember why trigger warnings were created in the first place (for those who suffer from PTSD). But content warnings might be appropriate. They do that in movies, so why not books?
Here again is the problem. Who decides what “rating” a book gets? Age recommendations and general content expectations already exist for children’s literature. Parents can easily avoid more mature content for their kids if they so choose. Adding trigger warnings to children’s books is utterly unnecessary and against their intended purpose in the first place. It may also absolve parents of their accountability—something we don’t need, even if times are changing.
6. But, how would a parent on Amazon know of the violence content when they need to? Violence level is not a filter on the choices next to children’s books (that I can find) Or, should the parent be responsible to read the blurb where it talks about the book? What if the blurb didn’t disclose violent content?
It’s the parent’s responsibility to determine if a children’s book is appropriate for their child, not Amazon’s, not Barnes and Noble’s. Do you want to force a corporation to adopt a governmental mandate that restricts free speech? Again, see what the Supreme Court had to say. Parents can read the description, flip through the book in a store, look at reviews, etc. If a children’s book contains notably mature elements, the publisher may mention that in the blurb, but they should never be obligated to. Ultimately, it’s up to the parent to vet their children’s reading material.
Are we coddling to parents to who don’t want to accept responsibility for their buying choices?
7. What do writers organizations say about trigger warnings? What should they say?
I do not know what writers’ organization have to say about trigger or content warnings and my search really came up with nothing good. It seems to me the debates are prevalent amongst members, and if any of them have come out with a definite statement, then it’s so buried in their website that it’s unreachable.
That said, I do know what the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) has to say:
Institutional requirements or even suggestions that faculty use trigger warnings interfere with faculty academic freedom in the choice of course materials and teaching methods. Faculty might feel pressured into notifying students about course content for fear that some students might find it disturbing. Of course there may be instances in which a teacher judges it necessary to alert students to potentially difficult material and that is his or her right. Administrative requirements are different from individual faculty decisions. Administration regulation constitutes interference with academic freedom; faculty judgment is a legitimate exercise of autonomy (AAUP, 2014).
It’s not a writer’s group, but there is an interesting point in this statement: “Administration regulation constitutes interference with academic freedom…” You can change that to “Government regulation—or regulation of any sort from any entity—constitutes interference with creative freedom…” and you get the message.
Writers’ groups should strongly condemn trigger warnings as antithetical to creative and intellectual freedom.
8. Would a voluntary simple rating everyone could agree to work? Or is it even needed? Should book jackets mimic what movies do in their warnings on language?
I’m actually fine with this. Like I’ve said before, give me a letter or two that says there might be content I could be disturbed by and I will make the choice of whether or not to read it. I will take responsibility for my actions. I will be in charge of my own choices.
As a writer, I probably wouldn’t use a voluntary rating system myself, however.
And that should be my choice.
Take away my choice and you have a whole new argument.
Bruce, M. J., Stasik-O’Brien, S. M., & Hoffmann, H. (2023). Students’ psychophysiological reactivity to trigger warnings. Current Psychology, 42(7), 5470–5479. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-021-01895-1
Charles, A., Hare-Duke, L., Nudds, H., Franklin, D., Llewellyn-Beardsley, J., Rennick-Egglestone, S., Gust, O., Ng, F., Evans, E., Knox, E., Townsend, E., Yeo, C., & Slade, M. (2022). Typology of content warnings and trigger warnings: Systematic review. PLoS ONE, 17(5), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0266722
Pineles S.L., Mostoufi S.M., Ready B., Street A.E., Griffin M.G., & Resick P.A. (2011). Trauma reactivity, avoidant coping, and PTSD symptoms: A moderating relationship? Journal of Abnormal Psychology. 120(1), 240-246.
Bio: Benjamin Wretlind has several speculative fiction/science fiction series, including the Transit Series and the Aebris Series. His non-fiction books include Creating Atmosphere with Atmosphere which is a great book for writers who like effective scene setting. The Widening Gyre is out on Amazon along with his newest, Aebris Storm.
A Sampling of Reviews
Review of Deadly Keepsakes a cozy mystery by Anita Dickason
Reviewer: Karen Siddall5.0 out of 5 stars A modern Gothic romantic suspense/mystery like Phyllis A. Whitney. Reviewed in the United States on July 25, 2022
“Deadly Keepsakes” is a modern recreation of the Gothic romantic suspense novel in the vein of such great authors as Phyllis A. Whitney or Daphne du Maurier. Rather than the setting of the big house on the dark, remote, craggy-cliffed island, author Anita Dickason has reimagined the genre by placing the story smack in the middle of hot and sunny, small-town Texas.
Dickason amps up the suspense from the very start with Tori fleeing her home in Springfield, only months after her mother’s death, to escape the intimidation and revenge of the Russell family. But thankfully, Tori is a bright, capable, and determined heroine (unlike some of the fragile, helpless females of old), and she takes matters into her own hands to keep herself safe.
When she reaches her new town in Texas, she is immediately surrounded by the influential, successful people at the core of Granbury society: men who seem to feel they know more about what’s in her best interests than she does. I was so glad to see her set them straight quick, fast, and in a hurry. Two handsome men are also personally interested in the new heiress, and both are deliciously suspicious. But our girl keeps a wary eye on them both, though. Even as she feels attracted to one, she doesn’t let this blind her to his possible participation in the strange goings on. She keeps them both at arm’s length as she figures things out.
Review of The Bench, a thriller from Ty Carlson Reviewer: Sandra Bruxvoort 5.0 out of 5 stars Achingly sad…with a twist. Reviewed in the United States on January 29, 2022
“Love isn’t a feeling. That’s called infatuation. Love is what happens after the infatuation fades, when it becomes the choice you make every morning. Will I stay committed to this person, or will I choose to do what I want based solely on what’s best for me? Choosing to work with that person—whether you want to or not—that decision is what we call ‘love.’” A treat. Reading The Bench is a little like falling in love. You set upon the path, objectively recognizing that although this story is new, you can’t quite shake the feeling of familiarity as you fall deeper and deeper into the heart of it. You give yourself over to it completely. By the time you realize what’s happening, it’s gone, and you’re crying. And it isn’t until you look back that you see the signs were there all along, but that doesn’t ease the emptiness that sits with you. I guess it’s a bit like grieving in that regard, too. You’re left to pick up the pieces, and you wonder, “Well, what do I do now?”
Ty’s writing is emotional and atmospheric while not being flowery. He writes real people with real vices (and real demons), and his characters feel like people you actually know in real life.
Being from Arkansas, I loved coming across the local Easter eggs. I also thought the themes presented were so tragic and poignant for the times. There’s a strong sense of lost time and of places long forgotten that are felt heavily throughout the book.
The Bench casts a light on the whole matter of ethics and technology’s place in society. Whether a line exists, and if so, where? This is why I enjoy good science fiction—you get to explore the implications of technology by being plopped into a story about everyday people.
Review of Hare Today Gone Tomorrow a cozy by Pat Pratt Reviewer: Hussong’s Cantina 4.0 out of 5 stars It moves faster than a hare! Reviewed in the United States on November 3, 2023
“Pat Pratt’s cozy is full of personality and the scenes keep the plot moving. At no point did the story drag. The writing isn’t complicated, opting instead for smooth reading. The author used great economy in her introduction of the characters and their descriptions—another way of keeping things moving and interesting. One thing this series displays is the friendship within the retirement home, and dispels the myth that because they are old, the residents can’t be useful and intuitive. A grumpy narrator is featured, one who “says” she doesn’t like animals. That is novel and interesting, while in reality the narrator is vulnerable to the welfare of Frodo the dog. I liked the character Bernie the best for his unwavering persistence in the face of the narrator’s bad moods and attempts not to get too close to him. As the story moves along, clues fall into line along with the mis-directions while the action rolls forward. Bonus: if you want a killer rhubarb cake recipe, there is one just before chapter 31. This is pure cozy, and a great tea drinking read. As part of the tidying up, the original chars that brought them this murder case are looking forward to a better life, and the Children’s choir won the regional title!
Review of Talia, Heir to the Fairy Realm, a adult fantasy by Joel C. Flanagan-Grannemann Timothy Wolff 5.0 out of 5 stars Entertaining yet surprisingly dark novel Reviewed in the United States on March 29, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed this buddy read, though I admit the tone changes were wild lol. What starts off with carefree characters trying on clothes and dancing somehow becomes a super dark examination into betrayal, war crimes, and other atrocities. It’s kind of like Ferngully meets the Poppy Wars, which is a sentence I never expected to write.
The world-building was my favorite part. There are plenty of interesting tidbits for both the humans and fairies, and some hilarious phrasing. Looking forward to whatever happens in the next two books of the trilogy
Review of Robert J. Lewis’ Shadow Guardian, an unusual thriller Reviewer: Roger Robb A Great Sequel!!!! Reviewed in the United States on July 31, 2023
“This is the second book in the “Shadow Guardian” series. I had been anticipating the book after reading the first one which I loved! I loved this one as well! I couldn’t stop turning the pages until the end! Now I am having to drum my fingers until the third book comes out! 5 stars reading from me!
The story continues with the adventures of Diego and Alex (from the first book) where they had to work hard to keep Alex safe from that bad wolf who seemed to really had it out for him. In the meantime, their friends, Esmeralda and Freddy had been trying to keep the bad wolf contained until they could find a spell to break it. Diego and Alex felt frustrated with Esmeralda and Freddy for defending/denying the bad wolf’s behavior and couldn’t understand why. That’s where I’m going to stop and have you pick up the book to read to find out why and how! Happy reading!”
Review of Stacy Wilder’s Carmel Conundrum, a romantic mystery Karen Siddell Reviewed September 3, 2023
“Carmel Conundrum” is the second book in Stacy Wilder’s “Liz Adams Mystery” series and is a follow-up to last year’s popular and entertaining “Charleston Conundrum.” Accompanied by her lie-detecting dog, Duke, PI Liz Adams is on vacation in Carmel, visiting the attractive, attentive, and well-heeled Brad O’Connor and checking out the oceanfront property she inherited from her best friend, Peg. Liz decides to mix pleasure with business to stop whoever is using Brad’s confidential client information to create fake online identities that could destroy his company and reputation should it become public knowledge.
The main character, Liz Adams, may have discovered the perfect antidote to the emotional trauma of her divorce. Brad is a charming and kind man who seems genuinely into her, likes Duke, and appreciates her professional skills.”
Gina Rae Mitchell
Three Reasons I Love Reading Children’s Literature By Gina Mitchell Full list available on https://ginaraemitchell.com/
I am a firm believer in adults reading children’s books, even if a “child” is not present. There is so much adults can learn from literary jaunt through the children’s book section at your local library or bookstore. This is a snippet of my post, “7 Reasons Adults Should Read Children’s Books”
Fresh Perspective: Children’s books often tackle universal themes in a simple and accessible way, offering valuable insights and reminding adults of important life lessons.
Creativity and Imagination: Children’s literature tends to be imaginative and creative, inspiring adults to reconnect with their own sense of wonder and imagination.
Broadening Perspectives: Reading children’s books from diverse cultures and backgrounds can help adults gain a deeper understanding of different perspectives and experiences. Reading children’s books can be a hidden, delightful, and enriching experience for adults, reminding them of the joy of simplicity, the power of imagination, and the enduring magic of storytelling. So, pick up a children’s book today and expand your horizons
Upcoming on Gina Rae Mitchell’s blog the week of May 7th:
** Book Review – AXION: The Memory Rights Uprising by David Shulman, London producer, director, author
**Short Story Book Review – Cut & Thirst by Margaret Atwood
**Friday Finds – A curated list of books, Indie Author news, recipes, crafts, and trivia contests.
**Book Review – Legacy of the Witch (Book 1 of The Mystery School) by Kirsten Weiss
“….But truthfully many more characters deserve to die than there are authors willing to kill them….”
As a reader, what do you look for when trying a new author? ( Cover, theme, recommendations, or?)
I’m starting with reviews or word of mouth from specific sources whom I am familiar with their tastes. Reviews can be helpful but require some framing to analyze the reviewer themselves to be useful. I’ve purchased many novels (particularly fantasy) over the course of my life on the strength of an imaginative cover and it’s never been a particularly great idea.
When you read reviews, do negative reviews influence you?:(or if not a review reader, talk about why you do or don’t do reviews)
If it’s a negative review by an anonymous or unknown source it’s more likely to pique my interest than not. If a book can provoke a strong negative reaction it is a lot more likely to have something interesting to say and suggests an interesting experience from the read. I value a reading experience that challenges my thoughts and knowledge and expects my engagement for full value.
Do you stick with one genre, or love several of them? If you plan try a new genre in the near future, which one and why?
I don’t really categorize or judge value based on a concept of genre, It is for me too vague a descriptor and a vast number of quality books don’t hesitate to cross genres within themselves. A “fantasy” book can just as easily be a hard-boiled detective novel with noir influences or a classic swords and sandals adventure that’s far more concerned with pure swashbuckling action. Both may be satisfying and well written fantasy novels that provide entirely different reading experiences. I try to enter into a read with as few prejudices as possible and expect any “genre” elements to be incidental to a well-constructed narrative.
If you have had an author kill off a favorite character, what was your reaction? It is supposed to be good for a series to do that—do you agree?
The context does matter of course and every early death is not necessarily the best narrative decision, particularly when done for pure shock value. But truthfully many more characters deserve to die than there are authors willing to kill them. I enjoy fiction that isn’t afraid to give characters the endings they have earned or may strive to, and death is unfortunately an excellent and often natural way to provide closure and redemption for such arcs. It was certainly a formative moment when I read A Tale of Two Cities as a child and spent hours debating the value and morality of Carton’s sacrifice.
If you read a new author and were not happy with the book, what kind of things do you see that swayed your opinion? (Not enough drama, or tension, or action. Or plotting?)
“Boring” is the kiss of death. However what I find boring and others may find boring are entirely different things as I have a significantly dryer taste than many readers. I can handle being challenged on a huge number of technical issues or even process jargon with an effective companion or narrative support (Patrick O’Brian threads this needle brilliantly but even so many bounce off his works due to the jargon still) but if I genuinely find a book tedious or plodding I am likely to lose interest rapidly. Exploring and elaborating on conflicts between the characters and their environments is an essential key to maintaining my interest in a story and is critical to maintaining any kind of narrative momentum in the greater plot.
What is New with the Celwyn Series?
What is new?
Book 6? it is still in queue for editing at the publishers and due out this fall. It introduces a new direction and genre to the series, and I’m pretty sure you will like it—a weird imagination is a shame to waste.
For book 7, Lucky and Mrs. Nemo, nothing has changed since the last newsletter. About half of the rougher-than-sandpaper- first draft is still in the middle of my desk and not input into my pc. (And no screaming fights with the Dragon software about it have occurred) The good news is that I have about six months to get that done and edited. It is probably a sign of a sick mind when you meet your publisher’s deadlines by that much. However, I wanted to get on paper something that had been swirling around in the back of my mind like a Tasmanian devil chased by a rabid dog.
While on a river cruise in Germany, I recently wrote about 150 pages of book 8. There was none of the usual drama in my head….what will I do? what will I write? oh that is terrible!! More tea!!! ( then rip it up and throw it). Instead, I could do no wrong—- the words literally flowed like the Danube. Most interesting of all? I liked what I wrote. There is no tentative title for book 8, no hints forthcoming until I complete the first draft. I can’t afford another trip right now, so let us pray the magic continues.
For months, I’ve been volunteering with the non-profit group Engin to help Ukrainians speak and write English. No degree needed, or experience. Just an hour a week per student you want to help. The sessions are over Zoom. Engin supplies support and everything you need. Engin is a non-profit, and donations are always welcome. My students waited more than 8 months for a volunteer, and still others are hoping for a volunteer match soon.
If you can donate or volunteer, even for an hour a week, they would be so happy to hear from you.
Celwyn’s Cats The Beauty and the Beast. Guess which is which.
Book Signing!! Please join us on May 4th from 2-4 p.m.
Barnes and Noble: 1530 Black Lake Blvd. Olympia, WA.
Lou Kemp will be signing all of the books in the Celwyn series, including book 5, The Wyvern, the Pirate, and the Madman.
Mystery writer Linda Norlander will also be there, signing The Death of Goldie’s Mistress and her Cabin by the Lake Series.
Before this signing, Linda will be on a panel with other amazing writers for:
Left Coast Crime Conference, Seattle Shakedown, April 11-14 in Bellevue, Washington.
Interview with Victoria Ventris Shea
Bio: Victoria Ventris Shea began writing historical fiction of the Pacific Northwest at the recommendation of a psychic, despite disliking history. Her approach was to focus on the characters; real people with families like ours today. She retired from a career in education in Washington state and currently lives with her husband on Whidbey Island, home of Penn Cove mussels. Every day she enjoys reading, research, writing, cooking, yoga and her family who live nearby.
About Victoria’s historical novel, SHAGOON:
This multi-cultural historical novel begins with Ana’s Tlingit mother whose fierce love for her warrior husband and son launches a change for future generations. Ana, born of Wolf Clan, was meant to die in the Alaskan forest,. She was a naked newborn left with moss in her mouth while her mother fought to keep Ana’s brother. The babies were born with a deadly condition and although twins, the Wolf spirit has other plans.
My first book, SHAGOON, was hardest. It was 110,000 words. I cut it severely to hit the “sweet spot” of 80,000, then went back to fill some in again. The section breaks (blank space to show a change in time or setting) were left out of the paperback which made the story confusing. It resulted in some bad ratings out of the gate. That took time to clear up.
Did the plot flow as you wrote, or did you need to change anything major?
That plot was easy. It appeared in my research like a map to travel around the Pacific Rim and included the love interest which became the main conflict: love or duty.
What did you discover in research that was interesting?
In many Native American cultures of the past, twin babies were killed. That was the impetus for me to write SHAGOON; I needed to save a twin.
Which character is most like you?
I’m most like my main character’s mother. As the mother of twins, she fights valiantly to save her babies. She does not follow tradition for tradition’s sake and is relentless.
What happened when you killed a favorite character?
I killed my main character’s father. It was traumatic for me. I stalled for two weeks, then wrote it at 3 a.m. through the tears, sobbed for hours, and mourned for days.
Do you write for yourself or for readers?
I choose the story for myself since I will be writing it for about two years. I try to write it in a way that will be interesting to the reader.
Could we have a preview of your next book’s plot?
In THE GHOSTS OF WHIDBEY ISLAND the first settlers from the Oregon Trail come to live with the indigenous Skagit people in Washington Territory. Life is rugged. Still, relations are good until the governor arrives.
Mystery Writers of America members (and the public are invited) The Edgars May 1, 2024
The Writing Duo of Kate Jenkins and Morgan Moreau
Kate Jenkins and Morgan Moreau began writing together in 2009. They’ve only met once in person, but their chemistry as authors shows in their fantastic books, The Fractured City and The Coming Rebellion due out in May 2024.
Bios:
Kate Jenkins enjoys writing fantasy, sci-fi, and romance. She lives in a small town in Idaho with her autistic teen, her parents, four dogs, and six cats. She loves gaming, especially first-person shooters and asymmetrical horror games. She’s a K-pop enthusiast and harbors a secret love of K-dramas and Anime. Her favorite tropes are currently enemies to lovers, there was only one bed, coffee shops, time travel fixes it, and soul mates/soul identifying marks.
Morgan Moreau’s literary interests span across various genres. Her affection for The Little Mermaid profoundly influenced her vibrant red and purple hair, mermaid tattoos, and a growing collection of mermaid memorabilia. She lives in Alabama with her dog, Scarlett. Her current passions include higher education and watching the 1995 Pride & Prejudice once a month. Morgan is a fan of vampires, pirates, mermaids, and superheroes, and she hopes to incorporate them into future works.
The Coming Rebellion Legends of Coralia, book 2
Synopsis: Following a late-night escape from Quenall, Queen Collette and her friends journey to a neighboring kingdom, hoping to gain allies to help put Collette back on the throne. After Nawalya experiences a series of deadly visions, she struggles with revealing the possible futures to Whyldon, Tolan, and Collette. Back in Coralia, Zephraim and Rhoslyn are crowned the new King and Queen, but Lord Riken’s return threatens the success of the union.
We’ve never lived in the same state, or even the same side of the country, so all our writing takes place online. Originally, we discovered each other online and have only met in person once (at Disney World of all places!!). We met in an online RPG (role playing game) and began writing together in that capacity. When we decided we wanted to write books together, we already had experience plotting, creating characters, and putting stories together.
Our Writing Process
Our writing process is straightforward. We consider ourselves “pantsters.” We know the overall plot of the book, the important points we have to hit, but otherwise, we let the story and characters lead where they will. We often write scenes out of order, and we often work on multiple books at once. For example, we are currently writing chapters for books 4 and 5 in the Legends of Coralia series.
Next, we put the scenes in order and fill in the gaps along the way. Kate describes the writing process as, “It’s like we are playing a two-person D&D campaign where we split the characters and forgot who the DM is at times.” Truthfully, many of the stories we currently write, or want to write in the future, usually come to life when one of us goes, “what would happen if…?”
Morgan likes to watch the 1996 Pride and Prejudice miniseries while writing and editing. Kate is a recent fan of Hazbin Hotel and gets inspired to make book memes by the cartoon.
Character creation can be mutual or individual depending on the scene and the needs of the story at the time. If individually created, the one of us who is doing the creating is the person who names the character, creates their background, appearance, and other relevant details. When developed together, the combination of who does what can vary wildly. We each have characters we are the primary writer for, though we write for all characters as needed. The primary writer for a character is usually the person who does the creating. For example, Morgan is the primary writer for Collette, and Morgan is the one who created Collette.
How we communicate
Most of our writing takes place on our private discord server (instant messaging platform). We have channels for each of the books in our series, and we will write under the appropriately labeled channel. We will write out chapters or scenes in a sever channel (where each of us can see what is going on and comment). We tend to share a similar view of the story and where it is going, but creative differences do arise. Usually, where there are creative differences, we simply talk them out. This can involve going through the repercussions of each of the possible paths forward and choosing what we think works best. If something ends up not working, we can change it or use it later. Usually, by the time we do our read through before submission, we will consider these points and make sure they work as intended.
As we write, Morgan transfers the writing to a Google Doc for editing. Usually, the editing process at this point is ensuring the cohesiveness and flow of the chapter. We also try to make sure the scene remains in one POV. We haven’t heard of other writing teams writing this way, but the process works well for us. Once the scene is fully put together, we do an initial read through to make sure everything fits together and flows well. Our goal is to make sure no one can tell which of us wrote any particular line. We also take this time to search for passive language, overuse of certain words, and more.
We talk on and off all day, every day. Most conversations happen on the server, but we have a chat with some other authors on Instagram. We also call each other through the server or on the phone a few times a week. Morgan likes entertainment when she drives, so Kate usually gets called upon in those instances. The latest phone conversation involved Morgan cheering Kate’s son on while he played a video game.
Some Ideas For What to read Next
An Interview with Mystery Writer W. M. Gunn
Bio: WM Gunn is native Texan who spent over 30 years in the pharmaceutical industry in sales, sales management, and training and development where he developed, wrote, and delivered programmed instruction, technical seminars, and product launches. In 2009, he took those writing skills and began writing novels, novellas, and short stories.
I would assume every author has a different take on the process of writing, and I am no different. Sometimes I lead the story to its conclusion, and sometimes the story leads me. Sometimes I may wake up in the middle of the night and write for hours, only to discover the next morning that it was best completed with the DELETE button.
Where do your characters come from? It is easy to establish relationships (good and bad) with the characters you create. After all, they are products of your own mind, or approximations of people you know or meet. You infuse them with personality traits and quirks you exhibit or see in others. You see their models at the grocery store, the movie theater, the gas station, church, and a bar on Saturday night. Here are some of my character examples:
1. Jakob Sofer was a 28-year-old man when he got off the boat at a port in Jamestown, Virginia. In Ireland he had been an indentured servant, and now embarked on a new life in a new world.
2. Ichiro Hisakawa was a 16-year-old Japanese-American imprisoned in a concentration camp with 12,000 others in California in 1942. They became the enemy because of their race – not because of what they did.
3. Huntington’s Disease, a devastating killer, slowly ravaged 11-year-old Maria and took a grave toll on her widowed father, Pedro. He was desperate to save his daughter, but nothing could be done until she wrote a letter to Santa.
What is unique about your unusual characters? Here are a few examples:
There was an assassin who suffered from epistaxis (nosebleeds) who went on a Boos Cruise on Halloween and along with another couple got more than they bargained for.
Follow Corporal Dean Cummings on Omaha Beach on D-Day after he died.
Then there is Commander Gretchen Moreno and her trio of Synthetic Space Sanitation robots named Larry, Curly, and Moe.
Oh, and did you hear about the time Klaatu and Gort got into an argument? Or when Satan held court on a tree stump. He stood on his toes, knees bent, and hunched over at the waist. He had a long, red-orange muzzle, teeth as sharp as daggers, one blinding red eye, and one a deep pool of black like the tunnel to death. He faced Thomas Barton, better known as Red Smoke of the Keechi Creek tribe.
Since the late 1980s, I had an idea for a book. I never wrote anything down, but I knew how the story would begin and how it would end. It rolled around in my head for 20+ years until I retired in 2014 and finally put it down in my computer in about six weeks. My new career in writing had begun, but I was in no hurry to publish. Since that novel, I have written eleven more novels and two novellas but am only now beginning to publish. I have also written somewhere around 300+ short stories, many of which appear on my website under Storytime with Bubba, a rather unusual character to say the least.
We launched Holmes, Moriarty, and the Monkeys on March 1. This is a 19,000-word whodunit novella on Amazon Kindle ebooks. On the hearth in front of the Holmes and Moriarty Society’s massive fireplace are three stone statues of monkeys – Mizaru who holds its hands covering its eyes, Kikazaru with its hands covering its ears, and Iwazaru who covers its mouth. The story begins as Osgood Ridley, the owner of the mansion, and one of the society’s founding members, turns up dead. But as more bodies are found, the H&M Society’s true purpose is slowly revealed. When the statue of the fourth monkey, Sezaru, appears on the hearth, the questions begin to outweigh the answers. The members of the society realize that this is no longer a job for amateurs. Now it is the job for two police detectives to solve the mystery.
Upcoming: In May 2024, we will launch another novella entitled Chasing the Sun. As the sun moves from the East to the West comes the story of a group of adventurers following the trail of treasure from the Civil War last heard of in the 1880s. Ride with them as they encounter Union soldiers and Confederate Gold, Maximillian’s Lost Treasure and Indians, and a haunted cave of treasure and death.
The journey from writing to publishing is a significant milestone for any author. However, it’s crucial to approach this process with careful consideration, balancing the desire to see your work in print with the commitment to ensuring its quality and proper formatting. Here are some insights and tips to consider as you delve deeper into ways to make this transition easier.
Strive for Quality Over Speed
Develop Your Skill
Embrace Revision
Align with Your Goals Formatting Matters: Professional Appearance
Consistency is Key Resisting the Urge to Publish: Patience Pays Off
Seek Feedback: remember, the first draft is for the writer, but the final draft is for the reader. By prioritizing quality over speed and ensuring proper formatting, you can increase the likelihood of your work resonating with readers and making a lasting impact.
The Celwyn Series YouTube channel
What is New with the Celwyn Series?
What is new?
Not as much as I’d hoped. About the half of the handwritten draft for book 7 has been put through Dragon (voice activated software that is supposed to save my hands but can’t consistently spell the names of the main characters) and into a digital format.. No comment on the software other than to say that someday there will be a horror novel about it. I’m working on the title.
Book 7 will be called Lucky and Mrs. Nemo.
The mini-synopsis: Swango is still traveling with them on the Nautilus, and his flamboyant and rude tendencies remind everyone alternately of Celwyn or Pelaez. He is not as irritating as Pelaez (who he hasn’t met yet) and mostly means well. But, his way of participating is unusual and never planned. After attending to a deadly assault on Findbar Island, the adventurers leave for Spain to confront Doctor Lazlo and Mrs. Nemo, and when Tellyhouse is threatened, they return to Prague. Things shift again, and the Nautilus races west—-and for Kang’s sake, Celwyn hopes they arrive in time.
A coming attraction—– I’m planning on several companion books to the Celwyn series. Once exists now, The Sea of the Vanities, and it is set a bit earlier, in the 1850s. The next involves Pelaez, Celwyn’s obnoxious brother in 1945 England at a mansion called Farm Hall. There may be another before then.
Great Reviews:
Recently, on her blog Gina R. Mitchell featured a review of the Celwyn book 5, The Wyvern, the Pirate, and the Madman.
Here are two more reviews for book 5. A big thank you to Stacey Wilder, and Sandra Cox. Love you all. Link to the reviews: https://www.goodreads.com/…/203518795-the-wyvern-the…
About the Series:
The Celwyn Series is a steampunk fantasy filled with murder, mystery, and magic. The series stars the immortal magician Jonas Celwyn , Bartholomew the widower from the Sudan, and Professor Xiau Kang an automat who is also a doctor and scientist. As they travel the world they become part of the Nautilus and Captain Nemo’s adventures.
If you’d like a bulleted synopsis of any of the first 4 books of the series, please contact me at: https://loukemp.com/ If you have a comment on the newsletter or would like to participate in the Author Debates or the ongoing article “A Readers Point of View” in future issues, contact me there.
Synopsis Book 6. Swango, available fall 2024
The story begins in Hong Kong after Celwyn, Bartholomew, and Professor Kang are attacked. The identity of their assailant is interesting; and it portends an event that will challenge them all.
Pelaez is back, which makes life aboard the submarine rather tense while everyone tries to kill him. Before they can leave Hong Kong, the magician uses a unique method to retrieve half of Captain Nemo’s crew from their shore leave before they are killed. Months later, when Celwyn and company arrive in Prague they must bury one of their family who has been cruelly murdered.
From there, the adventurers reboard the Nautilus to travel to the Castell de Ferro in Spain. They expect a dangerous and supernatural reception and need more protection than what Celwyn can provide. At the magician’s suggestion, they plan to invite his acquaintance, Swango, aboard. Captain Nemo suspects Swango may be an asset, but the man also brings much more than assistance onto the ship.
For months, I’ve been volunteering with the non-profit group Engin to help Ukrainians speak and write English.
No degree needed, or experience. Just an hour a week per student you want to help. The sessions are over Zoom. Engin supplies support and everything you need. Engin is a non-profit, and donations are always welcome. My students waited more than 8 months for a volunteer, and still others are hoping for a volunteer match soon.
If you can donate or volunteer, even for an hour a week, they would be so happy to hear from you.
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