Marian Miller, Author of Light on Water

Today we are interviewing Marian Miller, author of the young adult romance novel Light on Water | A Visionary Novel for Young Adults.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

Marian Miller has a doctorate in psychology, and is a licensed marriage and family therapist. She has more than 25 years experience in the mental health field, many of those years spent working with children and adolescents. Vulnerable children in particular, have always held a special place in her heart. She has found her healing work with young people inspiring – particularly their resilience, courage, and hope for the future, captured in Light on Water.

Describe the plot of your new book in a few sentences. 

Sequestered since birth, Evie is a black girl whose ability to heal others has been carefully concealed. When her gifts are unintentionally discovered, her life spirals out of control.

Who do you think would most appreciate this book?

Young people 14-24, the spiritually minded; those interested in metaphysics, single mothers, multicultural families.

What inspired you to write a story that features a girl who can heal people with her touch?

To find a way to convey hope and healing, to encourage young people to embrace all aspects themselves and to express and cultivate their talents.

Tell us a bit about the protagonist, Evie.

Evalyn is compassionate and sensitive—particularly to others in pain. She is creative,  imaginative, and mischievous, and friendly.  She loves ketchup, ballet, and her mother—not necessarily in that order.

Who was your favorite character to write?

Ben—the extremely wealthy, but lonely boy with mental illness, later healed by Evie. 

As a young adult novel, many of your readers will be adolescents. What issues does your book touch on that adolescents can relate to?

School, teachers, food, clothes, laughter and jokes, sports, video games, music. Tumultuous and chaotic emotions, teen romantic relationships filled with jealously, confusion,  angst and passion.

Are there any authors who have influenced your writing style?

A combination of James Redfield, Stephanie Myers, Octavia Butler.

What are your goals as a writer for the next ten years?

To be able to write everyday, full time! To inspire others, to sell a successful book series. 

What do you have in mind for your next project?

Book 2 – Wind in Fire.

Is there anything else you'd like potential readers to know about your book?

This novel takes the reader on a thrilling, exciting adventure with characters you’ll enjoy getting to know. The story will leave you breathless, yet filled with hope.

An excerpt from Light on Water:

PROLOGUE

The moonless night is filled with sinuously moving shadows. The agonized panting of the couple running through the wooded undergrowth reverberates through the stillness. In the distance, the agitated sound of barking hounds. Exhausted, she slows. He knows she is near the limit of her endurance.

“Please,” she gasps, struggling for breath. “Go on without me. I’m only slowing you down."

Ignoring her pleas, he half drags, half carries her, hoping he has enough strength left for both of them. They can’t stop now—to do so would mean capture and, if not physical death, it would mean death of life as they know it. They are so very close to freedom.

He drops the pack from his shoulders, rifles through it for money and passports, which he stuffs into his jacket pockets. He reaches deep into the bottom of the pack searching for the key. The cool metal slips through his fingers into the thick undergrowth. Swearing, he drops to his knees, frantically searching. Unhampered by darkness, she spots it easily, hands it to him.

The barking of the hounds is much louder now. The trackers are closer. Despite the darkness, through the periphery of the trees she can see the lake clearly. “We’re almost there,” she murmurs.

Soon they hear the low, rhythmic sound of lapping water. In the darkness, the endless black ink of the lake spreads out towards an unseen shore. The barking fades, as do the other night sounds. He steps to the edge of the water, feels it flow over his feet, beckoning, calming, welcoming. He knew this moment would come.

Everything he has learned, believed and hoped for is riding on this inevitable moment. She turns toward him, hesitantly, an unspoken question on her lips. Although he can’t see the expression in her eyes, he knows they are filled with fear. She can’t swim.       He lifts her into his arms, feels her relax. He presses his lips to her forehead. If his life should end with hers, so be it. After all, the best things in his life began with her. 

Inhaling deeply, he feels the familiar energy surge through him. Carefully edging forward, he steps up and onto the surface of the water.

More Information

www.MarianMillerBooks.com

Silvia Perez Arvelo, Author of Perlita Comes to America

Today we are interviewing Silvia Perez Arvelo, author of the children's book Perlita Comes to America.
 
Tell us a bit about yourself.
Silvia is married to Miguel Arvelo for over 26 years and is the mother of 3 beautiful daughters; Stephanie Marie, Ashley Kristine and Alexandria Nicole.  She still lives in the United States and continues to love it.

Silvia is passionate about seeing girls and women of all ages thrive and succeed.  Where some see difficulty, impossibilities and defeat she sees, opportunity, possibility and determination. She believes that dreams do come true for those who believe. Dreams are still achievable even if destiny has you living in a country that is not your country of origin.

Her desire is to encourage all the Perlita’s in her life time to go for their dreams. To strive for all they hope to become and to see doors of opportunity where others may only see misfortune and missed opportunities.
 
Silvia is a certified Life Breakthrough Coach and founder of Women’s Empowerment Services. She is also Co-Founder of a Non-Profit Organization called Latinas of Legacy.

Describe the plot of your new book in a few sentences.
The book is about a young girl whose life is disrupted by moving away from everything that is familiar to her.  She is about to enter a whole new world, culture and language and with that she faces some challenges.

Who do you think would most appreciate this book?
Children between the ages of 7-9, parents, grandparents and children who have experienced a disruption to their regular routine and surrounding.

What inspired you to write a story about a young girl who immigrates to America?
This is my story!  As I see more and more children enter the United States with hopes for a better life and opportunity I wanted to let them know that although it may be tough at first, life will get better and you will adjust and more importantly succeed.

I wanted to impart hope and encourage others!

Your book is unique in that it’s written in both Spanish and English. Did you grow up speaking both languages? Or did you learn one at a later period than the other?
My first language is Spanish but I quickly learned English and now English has turned into my first language.  I even think and process things in English.  Most young immigrants gravitate to the new language and due to school activities and friends, your new language quickly becomes your preferred and language of choice.

I wanted the book to be bilingual for several reasons.  First, I wanted grandparents to be able to read to their grandchildren in their first language.  Secondly, I wanted to give children the opportunity to learn a new one by seeing them side by side.  And lastly, I wanted Hispanic children not to lose sight of their roots and first language.  It’s very easy to forget how to read and write it.

Tell us about the protagonist, Perlita.
Perlita is a child that desperately wants to adjust and connect.  She wants to make new friends and start her new life in the United States.  Life threw her a curveball and now she wants to start her new life.

She is a sweet girl who is eager to learn all she can about her new country’s language and culture.

What do you think are some of the biggest challenges for children moving to a new country?
One of the biggest challenges is learning the new language.  Schools have gotten a lot better in assisting in the assimilation process however; making friendships without being able to communicate is a challenge.  Also, understanding the culture in general is a great challenge.

What are your goals as a children’s book writer for the next ten years?
My goal as a writer is to produce several more volumes on Perlita’s challenges and ways that she overcame them.  I want to show children through my work not to give up hope but to be persistent and be determined to succeed at everything that you set your mind to do.

What do you have in mind for your next project?
Perlita needs to go to school and I need to get her there :)

Is there anything else you'd like potential readers to know about your book?
Yes, I want them to know that this book will take them through a range of emotions but will teach them about empathy for people that may not be the same as us.  We can also learn from other cultures and expand our own knowledge of foods, customs and new cultures by embracing and getting to know our new neighbors or classmates.

More Information
www.perlitacomestoamerica.com

Paul Barufaldi, Author of DUALITY | The World of Lies

Today we are interviewing Paul Barufaldi, author of the science fiction novel DUALITY: The World of Lies.

Tell us a bit about yourself.
I spent the past 13 years living abroad in Beijing, China.  I lived in the old city and taught English for living.  It’s a tale itself, but one probably too sordid for the telling.  Now that I’m repatriated, I figured I would try my hand at the craft of writing.  I’ve had these ideas kicking around in my head for so many years and they were long overdue to put into print.  That’s the focus of my life: getting WOL published and conquering another manuscript.  It’s addictive, and I like it, so I’m determined to keep this momentum going.

Describe the plot of your new book in a few sentences.
The World of Lies follows two stories from several different characters perspectives.  First we have the star-crossed duo of Aru Psyron and Li Meiyang of The Kinetic Dream trespassing into the fiery depths of the Red Star itself and the realm of ascended master and Emperor, Lord Logos.  Then we follow the tale of young Gahre of the sequestered lands of the Pangea on the Blue homeworld of Occitania. Disgusted by the repression of knowledge at the hand of the government, he sets out to uncover the truth by sheer force of will under his own two feet.  All of these stories are overshadowed by the Ascended Masters of the Blue and Red Stars and who straddle the line the between existence and non-existence in a silent game of chess the beings of the Taiji are only left to guess at.

Who do you think would most appreciate this book?
I imagine hard-science readers and out-of-the-box cosmologists would enjoy this work, but I tried to write it on a level that will also appeal to a more general audience.

What inspired you to write a sci-fi novel with dual story arcs?
I think it’s an interesting device that makes for a more diverse reading experience.  I also experimented with changing character perspectives with each chapter.  I know that’s against all the perspective advice for new authors, but I think I’ve made it work, and it’s a lot of fun to get into different character’s heads and see their often drastically differing take on events.

Was it challenging to write two stories that are separate yet complementary?
No, it’s actually a lot easier!  In the manuscript writing phase I found that going back and forth kept my writing fresh.  It prevented me from burning out and writing stale material, which is a common pitfall when composing a single drawn-out continuous story.

One of your story arcs involves a monk on a journey through exotic lands. Without giving too much away, can you tell us a bit about what he encounters during this journey?
He traverses between natural wonders like one move through a dream, and meets some very colorful characters along the way.

Who was your favorite character to write?
I’d have to say it’s Li Meiyang.  She is very outspoken…. Or maybe “mouthy” would be the better term.  She’s equal parts insightful and sarcastic, domineering and demure, clever -and at times profane.  Writing chapters from her perspective was definitely the most fun.

What do you have in mind for your next project?
I’m already at work on the sequel: DUALITY: Soul Splitter -which picks up right where WOL leaves off.  Readers can expect to see a lot more development in the series primary story arc as Gahre and his counterpart (?) fully come into their own.  There’s going to be a lot more action in this novel, including an epic rampage across space, and of course there will be a lot more mystery and intrigue, particularly as the crew of the Kinetic take on an ancient machine lord. The source of evil in the Taiji becomes more apparent and an Ascended Master will be revealed.

Is there anything else you'd like potential readers to know about your book?
Yes, they can get it free.  I’ll be doing a Kindle free giveaway soon.  Just stay tuned to my blog or Amazon author’s page.  I’m keeping the price low and just trying to get it out there, since it’s my first novel and thus have no following of readers. So far I’ve gotten a lot of positive feedback, and I really hope this book offers something unique to each and every reader.

An excerpt from DUALITY | The World of Lies:

The compass led him to the ridge of a grand caldera. He could see the full span of it that covered hundreds of kilometers, coated in lush greenery, plains and herds of grazing animals. In no time he was among them. At its center he came upon a crystal lake teaming with fish so enormous, the meat of one alone fed him for days. The predators did attempt to stalk him, wolf and leopard, but perhaps he was just a curiosity for these creatures that had never before seen man. He called out in warning when he sensed them, and hearing his voice they dispersed and went on their way and he on his. Gahre already had the peculiar habit of talking to animals, and he found himself putting to daily use. What's more he seemed to understand their answers, in squawks or squeaks, growls or snorts. He understood them clearly, because he was himself close to nature and understood them in the context of their natural habitat and as caring about the things animals cared about, like food and safety.

The caldera rose to its rim and he saw the first bare rocky ground of the badlands emerge under his feet soonafter. It was a barren range but easy ground to cover. The landscape had a painted feel, and the clear nights painted in cosmic clouds above it imparted in him a deep spiritual appreciation for this world of sparse grass prairies and jutting rocky spires that grew into mountains as he wore on. Firewood was in short supply and nights were cold. He could barely stomach the dry salted duck at times and he craved green vegetables, but what those rations failed to provide in satisfying his palette they made up for by providing the raw energy it took to traverse this rugged ground. Where the sands turned red, he imagined this was what the terrain of the bloodmoon Oberion looked like, a pale dusty dead world.

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Shana James, Author of Deferred Consumption

Today we are interviewing Shana James about her romantic suspense novel, Deferred Consumption. 

Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m originally from South Carolina, but I’ve lived in six states, including Missouri, Maryland, Pennsylvania, California and now New York where I live in Brooklyn.  I work, professionally, as a marketing and public relations professional, which I’ve done for many years, but I’d really love to make writing fiction my full-time career. So, I’m totally immersed in that effort, now. 

I’m a graduate of the University of South Carolina, which I’m very proud of, and I’m still hoping to finally finish my Master’s degree at Quinnipiac University. I love, love, love to travel!  If I could spend the rest of my life traveling and writing novels, the first half will not have been spent in vain. I’m loathe to admit it, but I guess I’m a “foodie”.  I love trying new dishes and new restaurants.  Especially when I travel.  I have a deep love for knowledge, just in general, so I read scores of articles and other writings and soak up documentary after documentary about the history of the world, how various industries were started, trends ignited. I am rarely “bored” because there’s just too much to be curious about in the world! 

Describe the plot of your new book in a few sentences.
A young, Manhattan investment banker is engaged to be married to her gorgeous tennis star boyfriend. She faces a nearly unthinkable tragedy as a wealthy, Russian psychopath with terrorist ties, one of her firm’s clients, seeks to make her his. This, as she discovers an evil plan that could deal another devastating blow to America.  She literally crosses paths with a mysterious, young venture capitalist who helps her seek justice and find healing so she can begin her life anew. Things get really crazy!

Who do you think would most appreciate this book?
The book contains a lot of suspense, but it is definitely a romance novel, as well.  I think, so often, we expect only women to read romance novels, but I think Deferred Consumption is a great balance of both, so I think both women and men could enjoy it.  If I may say so myself, the pacing is nice and balanced and the romance is really just a glimpse into the relationship ups and downs of my heroine, Heather Rangel.

What inspired you to write a book about an engaged woman who seems to have everything until another man enters the scene determined to pursue her relentlessly?
I’ve lived in New York City for not quite two years and it’s a very…interesting…city, to say the least.  The aggression that many of the people here exhibit is something that I haven’t found anywhere else in the country and it’s very intriguing to me.  How and why it’s so prevalent in such a large population.  So, I tried to use the NYC aggression to power my antagonists. Their wealth only magnifies the aggression, which I hope readers will be able to feel. 

When I started the novel, I knew how I wanted it to end, but that this guy would pursue her this way was not something that I originally set out to write.  It just sort of happened!  I didn’t do an outline for the book and it was so enjoyable to let the story unfold each evening.  When Vitya Ivanov started his quest to have Heather, it just made the whole story come together.

Tell us a bit about the protagonist, Heather.
Heather Rangel is a tough young woman who has spent much of her 20’s pursuing her career.  We meet her when she’s in a good relationship with her fiance, Brody, but for many years she was a loner who wasn’t really sure she’d ever find true love.  She’s very smart and very savvy about how she carries herself and the decisions she makes.  How they will affect her future and her finances.  She’s originally from Connecticut, but she loves New York City very much. She enjoys the tempo of the city.  She’s ready to get married and even though she’s invested a great deal of time and energy into her career, she’d be willing to give it all up for the right guy because she is weary of the cutthroat nature of the banking industry.

Who was your favorite character to write? 
My favorite character to write was David Schwartz, another villain in the story.  I don’t think I included him enough, but he will definitely have a bigger presence in the follow-up.  At least for now he will.  Funny things happen on the way to “The End” when you don’t use an outline!  But, David Schwartz is another example of that ever-present, ever-intriguing New York City aggression.  He’s rude and brash, but he’s the type of character you tend to keep your eyes on because you just don’t know what crazy thing he’s going to say next. 

Are there any authors who have influenced your writing style? 
I absolutely love James Patterson, Nora Roberts and Tami Hoag. 

Have you ever had writer's block?
I haven’t really had writer’s block, more writer’s fatigue.  My job is very consuming and it’s sometimes a task to get the laptop out and get to work.  But, as soon those words start flowing from my fingertips, the fatigue just melts away.

Do you write with a computer, typewriter, or pen and paper? Why do you use this tool?
I use a laptop and I tip my hat to those writers who can write a novel by hand. I can’t even imagine!  But, it sounds so noble. My other is actually working on a non-fiction book that she’s writing by hand.  I’m glad I didn’t inherit that from her!

What do you have in mind for your next project?
My next project will be a follow-up to Deferred Consumption and it should be available by late July, early August.  I think readers will like Deadly Consumption even more than Deferred Consumption!

Is there anything else you'd like potential readers to know about your book?
I’d like readers to know that I tried to give them a story that was vivid and exciting.  It’s a story that is entertaining and funny, and it may just give you a few ideas for how to spice things up in the bedroom.

An excerpt from Deferred Consumption: 

He was mere inches from Heather’s ear as he snapped his teeth for the added, intimidating effect. She was furious, but even the few minutes she’d been in his presence told her all that she needed to know. He was a maniac and she had to choose her next words carefully.  She slowly composed herself so she could respond. Countless eyes peered at her from various corners in the massive lobby.  

“I’m sorry, but I haven’t had the pleasure of learning your name.” She went in to the lion’s den. 

“Ivanov. Mr. Vitya Ivanov,” he responded in his gruff, deep accent glaring longingly, menacingly at her with his cold, grey eyes. 

As soon as she heard his last name, she felt a chill race along her spine.  Vitya Ivanov was a wealthy entrepreneur, indeed, but he was also a suspected terrorist supporter alleged to have funded several bombings and kidnappings across the globe.  She couldn’t believe he was standing in the lobby of the firm. She also couldn’t believe that David Schwartz had decided to meet with him.  

Simply allowing Ivanov to invest his money with Laverna wasn’t a crime, but it certainly wasn’t wise. It would definitely draw undue scrutiny from the Securities and Exchange Commission and other government arms. Each anxious to bring Hiram Schwartz down for what he’d done to their buddies decades earlier.  Uncle Sam could hold a grudge for a long time. Even the slightest impropriety could send an army of investigators crawling through every nook, cranny and corner of Laverna. Searching for anything that would allow them to shut the firm down.  She couldn’t understand why the younger Schwartz would take the risk.

“Mr. Ivanov, allow me to apologize for Mr. Schwartz’s oversight. We take very good care of our clients here at Laverna and I’m positive he will be mortified at having missed your appointment. I would be more than happy to sit down with you in my office so we can discuss your needs. I assure you, you’ll be in good hands.” She strategically offered herself on the altar to soften the blow to the firm. 

He, in return, offered up a deep belly laugh. 

“I am sure I will be in good hands with you, MS. Rangel.” He undressed her with his eyes.  “However, I am no longer in the mood for this and I have other appointments that I must keep. But!  I will definitely be back so I can get into your…good hands,” he mocked.  His minions laughed heartily. 

Heather fought to maintain her composure, feeling cloaked in by her limited options for dealing with the psychopath. 

“Here’s my card.  Have your scheduler contact my assistant to book an appointment and we’ll take it from there,” she responded. Doing her best to not have security drag him from the premises. 

“I will, indeed, krasotka,” he responded. He allowed his eyes to crawl the length of her body once more for good measure.

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Shannon Webster, Author of Game On

Today we are interviewing Shannon Webster, author of the esports book Game On | How I Became a Nintendo World Championships Finalist.

Tell us about yourself.
I was born and raised in Nebraska but now reside near Mount Hood, Oregon. I have a degree in Business and am a small business owner. Reading is my favorite pastime and I am always lost in a good book. I've often considered becoming a writer and Game On is my first attempt at writing a book.

Describe your book, Game On, for us.
When I was a teenager I entered a national video game tournament called the Nintendo World Championships. I won the city tournament in Denver and went on to compete at the NWC Finals in Hollywood. The book is my story of how I first became interested in video games and later my experiences competing in the tournament. More than video games, it's a coming of age story.

How did you get interested in video games and becoming a video game champion?
I didn’t start out wanting to become a video game champion, it just sort of happened along the way. I go into it in more detail in my book. I can tell you that home video games were a new experience back in the 1980s and there was a lot of excitement around the new technology. Video games had become such a craze nationally and me learning about the 1990 Nintendo World Championships and giving it a shot was just my way of being involved in that growing frenzy.
 
What made you decide to write a book about your Nintendo World Championships experience?
Well as you can imagine, my experience in the NWC is a memory that I treasure. During the months and years after the tournament I would often replay the experience in my thoughts so I could relive the events and how I felt at the time. Several years back when I was in college, I sold my NWC cartridge and the buyer had a lot of questions about my participation in the event. At that point I went ahead and typed out most of what I had experienced and sent it to him. After that, the story just sat on my hard drive. It has now been 25 years since the experience so I thought that it would be a good time to publish the story. So I went back and rewrote and added to the story I already had.

What was the writing process like?
It took several months to write my story when I was in college. I didn’t have time to give it the attention to detail that it deserved. So in my recent work on the story, I’ve spent another several months adding in detail and sharing more of my emotional experience before and after the tournament. It is a short book. However, it’s my story just as it happened. I didn’t embellish or add in anything to pad the page count.

Ultimately you didn’t become the Nintendo World Champion, any regrets?
At the time, I was really let down that I didn’t win the final tournament in Hollywood. I had spent so much of my emotional energy on being a competitive gamer. But looking back now, I think that in a way I’m glad that I didn’t win the final tournament. To be the Nintendo World Champion would be way too much pressure! In the years following the tournament, when I would play games with others, I always felt I had to live up to my status as an NWC Finalist. If I was competing against other gamers and I beat them seven out of ten times, I would feel disappointed in myself for not being even more dominant. If I were the Nintendo World Champion, I would feel the need to be absolutely perfect at all times and who needs that kind of pressure?
 
What has playing video games taught you?
If you want the short, clichéd answer; it’s to dream big. It amazes me how in childhood everything seems possible. Kids tell themselves “when I grow up, I want to be an astronaut” or other such lofty goals and it all seems perfectly reasonable. When I was a teenager and I was talking my mother into taking me to multiple video game tournaments she never told me “now son, the chances of winning something like that is very unlikely.” Instead she indulged me and I felt that I really had a shot. It didn’t occur to me that doing something on that level was supposed to be close to impossible. As we grow up we start to realize how difficult things really are and that maybe being an astronaut isn’t a real possibility. However, as I found out when I was younger, if you truly believe in yourself and show faith in yourself you can achieve what you want if you persist. So I guess that video games taught to me that I don’t have to settle for mediocrity in life.

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Ellard Thomas, Author of Moving Forward, Courageously

Today we are interviewing Ellard L. Thomas, author of the personal development book Moving Forward, Courageously | Seven Secrets to Restoring Love, Money and Happiness in Your Life.

Tell us a bit about yourself.
For nearly two decades, I have helped professionals, educators and adult students to overcome their personal and professional challenges. Due to the impact that I have made in their lives, I have earned the title of "America's Break Your Barrier" expert. I truly enjoy helping people to reach the next level of their lives.

Describe the purpose of your book in a few sentences.
Moving Forward, Courageously reveals a seven-step plan designed to help people with rebuilding their lives after facing heartache, financial loss, the death of a loved one and several other common adversities. People must understand that they are far more powerful than the challenges they face.

Who do you think would most appreciate this book?
Individuals who would most appreciate Moving Forward, Courageously are individuals who seek to restore love, money and happiness in their lives following life's challenging or tragic events.

What inspired you to write a book about overcoming challenges?
Considering the hurt, abuse, failed businesses and other hardships I had undergone, I realized that countless others experienced similar afflictions. Sadly there weren't any books which revealed an easy-to-follow system to help them get back to living. From this revelation, Moving Forward, Courageously was birthed. One of my clients called it "a necessity during adverse conditions."

One of the themes in your book is that adversity offers opportunity. Can you elaborate on this a bit?
 Within each of us lies a greater being. Unfortunately, this greater self is awakened only through adversity. Following in-depth studies of great people I've concluded that "The seeds of greatness are often watered by the rains of adversity and affliction. " Some of the world's greatest achievements were spawned from adversity.

How do you think reading your book will impact people?
Reading Moving Forward, Courageously will enable and empower readers to rebuild their lives. Many people struggle with overcoming hurt and loss and have a hard time returning to living with joy and happiness. This book helps them to find their way back to the life they deserve.

Outside of writing, what other endeavors are you involved with?
Good question. Outside of writing, my other endeavors include speaking and training, working in ministry, advocating for the youth and helping individuals with becoming entrepreneurs. My greatest endeavors are being a great father and husband.

What do you have in mind for your next writing project?
I am happy to announce my next project: Defeating Goliath. Focusing on the epic battle between David and Goliath, this book reveals how readers can unlock their inner warrior to defeat any obstacle that stands between them and their individual definition of success and their purpose. I am truly excited about it.

Is there anything else you'd like potential readers to know about your book?
Yes. Moving Forward, Courageously was written specifically for readers that need a systematic way of breaking their financial, spiritual, personal or professional barriers. It refrains from insulting readers' intelligence by not having rehashed or redundant "How to" information that's commonly found in other self-help or personal development books. If you struggle with overcoming hardships, or know someone else who is, make Moving Forward, Courageously a part of your life-restoration plan.

More Information 
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Stephen C. Merlino, Author of The Jack of Souls

Today we are interviewing Stephen C. Merlino, author of the fantasy/YA fantasy novel The Jack of Souls, book 1 of the Unseen Moon series.

Tell us a bit about yourself.
I live in the Pacific Northwest of the USA with the world's most talented and desirable woman, two fabulous children, and three attack chickens.

I teach high school English to a group of fantastic kids. When people ask (and they always do), “Are teenagers really messed up these days?” I say, “Not at all. They are just like we were. They’re awesome.” And I mean it. Best job in the world, working with teens. :)

Describe the plot of your new book in a few sentences.
An outcast rogue must break a curse put on his fate, or die on his nineteenth birthday. His usual tricks won’t be enough so save him. He’ll need the help of other outcasts—and a lot of it. Ultimately, he must face the temptation of forbidden magic that could break his curse, but cost him the only woman he’s ever loved.

Who do you think would most appreciate The Jack of Souls?
1)    Lovers of fantasy who want a fresh twist to characters and world. I enjoy upending old tropes and shooting for originality. Many of my reviews express appreciation of that, so think I must have succeeded in it.

2)    Those curious about autism and who might appreciate seeing an autistic character.

3)    Lovers of Shakespeare who might enjoy finding an Easter egg subplot from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. :)!

What inspired you to write a book about three outcasts, each with a shortcoming, that must band together to survive?
Flawed characters are the best characters. The more messed up they are, the more interesting their story, the farther they have to go to redeem themselves, and the more non-stop the action. 

Tell us about the three main characters, Harric, Caris, and Sir Willard.
HARRIC is a bastard. Literally. As in, he was born to a single mother. 

Harric

If he’d been born thirty years earlier, he would have been born a slave, but the Queen abolished the slavery of bastards and women, so he was raised a free bastard.

Nevertheless, there are those in the land who wish to overthrow the Queen and re-enslave bastards and women, so Harric is very fond of the present government. His mother was one of the court ladies first educated by the Queen’s tutors and employed as a courtesan spy. When she raised him, his mother trained him in all the arts of the spy—etiquette, seduction, subterfuge, slight of hand, forgery, lock-picking, poisoning, etc.—so he could take her place in the Queen’s service.

Cool mom, right? She taught him to be the ultimate trickster!

Sadly, she also went mad, saw visions of him one day destroying the Queen, and cursed him to die on his nineteenth birthday, in order to protect the Queen.

Maybe not such a cool mom.

CARIS is a runaway noble maiden intent upon becoming the Queen’s first female knight.

Caris

She is not your average charismatic Joan of Arc type, however. She is, in fact, horse-touched, which means she has several advantages and some serious disadvantages in her quest to serve the Queen.

Advantages include enormous strength and size, as well as uncanny ability with horses. The main disadvantage centers around the fact that she understands horses better than humans. This manifests in a sometimes crippling fear of social situations, crowds, and in a general blindness to subtle human social cues.

Needless to say, since Harric is a master of subtlety and social manipulation, they make quite a pair, each protecting the other’s weak spot.

SIR WILLARD is an ex-immortal knight who still rides the immortal warhorse that once made him immortal and gave him immortal powers. He has sworn off immortality, however, and is now aging and outcast and addicted to painkilling herb.

Sir Willard

         
That being said, he is also arguably Arkendia’s greatest hero.

In his heyday as an immortal, he led the Cleansing—the war that rid the kingdom of the Old Ones, an order of immortal knights who once enslaved the land. In the flush of the Queen’s youth he served as her official Champion and unofficial lover. Everything fell apart when he fell in love with one of the Queen’s ladies; the resulting love triangle proved unforgivable, quickly making him an ex-champion, ex-lover, and banished from the court.

He is still in love however, and he seeks the Queen’s forgiveness by undertaking one final, desperate quest in her service.

Did you have a favorite character to write?
You know, I have to say, No, I love writing them all.

Harric is always fun because he’s a trickster and unpredictable and funny—qualities that get amplified when Fink shows up (not telling you about Fink, sorry!).

Caris is so powerful and flawed, and she’s such a plain-talking merciless ass-kicker that I just love to watch her go. Justice, especially, seems sweeter when she deals it. :)

Willard is wise, foul-tempered, good-hearted, old-fashioned, and constantly smoking ragleaf stogies. He’s funny, and like Caris is also capable of feats of astounding ass-kickery, despite his age.

Can you describe the creative process you had for this book, from the initial idea to the final manuscript?
1)    Wrote a chapter, rewrote it, then shared w/ critique group. Revised per critique. Let it sit.

2)    Wrote another chapter, rewrote it, shared w/ critique group. Revised based on critique. Let it sit.

3)    Repeated chapter by chapter through entire manuscript until done.

4)    Left that critique group.

5)    Presented manuscript chapter by chapter to second critique group, revised per feedback, until done.

6)    Posted entire book on Wattpad. Listened to feedback nitpicks. Tweaked.

7)    Sent to beta readers. Revised according to feedback.

8)    Sent to copy editor.

9)    Published!

How do you feel about the increasing popularity of ebooks?
Because of ebooks, I have readers. If there were no ebooks, The Jack of Souls would still be languishing at the bottom of agent and editor slush piles doing no one any good—least of all, fantasy readers.

So I love ebooks! Thank you, Amazon and Nook and Kobo and Smashwords! :)

Have you ever had writer's block? If yes, how'd you deal with it?
If I’m having a hard time starting, I revise what I last wrote, and that gets the juices rolling.

Do you write with a computer, typewriter, or pen and paper?
Mostly computer. There is a time and place for the luxury of paper, but usually I go for the speed of computer. 

What do you have in mind for your next project?
Book 2, The Knave of Souls, to be released at the end of summer 2015!

Book 3, The Prince of Souls, to be released at the end of 2015!

Is there anything else you'd like potential readers to know about The Jack of Souls?
The Jack of Souls won two awards for fantasy, and is top ten on two Amazon Bestseller lists. Check it out! The first three chapters are free, so you have nothing to lose. Read them and see what you think.

If you like it, pick up the ebook for less than a frappacino and let me know what you think!

I love to hear from readers. Just email me at stephenmerlino@hotmail.com. :)

Thanks for reading!

—    S

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C.B. Garris, Author of PARAMEDIC: M.O.S.

Today we are interviewing C.B. Garris about PARAMEDIC: M.O.S., a non-fiction look at the front lines of Emergency Medical Services in New York City.


Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is C.B. Garris and I am an EMS Paramedic/First Responder, Firefighter and Emergency Management Specialist; and a former member of NYC EMS {the New York City Emergency Medical Service; now entitled FDNY-EMS}. A New York City native, I served as an Assistant Watch Commander/Senior Emergency Management Specialist and Operations Resource Coordinator in the 9-1-1 Command and Control Division, coordinating tactical operations. I was the EMS logistical resource coordinator for the original terrorist bombing attack on the World Trade Center in 1993, an Instructor of Emergency Medicine at the UCLA Medical Center/Center for Prehospital Care, an Emergency Management/Dive Rescue Coordinator to the motion picture industry, and I am a clinical regulatory/biomedical specialist in emergency medicine, tactical/urban combat medicine and advanced resuscitation.
 
Describe your book in a few sentences.
PARAMEDIC: M.O.S. is a profound and deeply personal look into the experiences on the front lines of Emergency Medical Services in New York City.  Not only do EMT’s and Paramedics experience the highs and lows of constant life and death exposure the constant intensity of patients revived or lost due to traumatic accidents, or those medically compromised at scenes before they arrive; but they are also forced to deal with coworkers who are sometimes ineffective, self-serving, uncaring, as well as bureaucratic red-tape, politics and often personal tragedy within their own fraternal public safety family.   These incidents rarely, if ever, get reported in the general media; yet these selfless rescuers of the city’s citizens push forward and return to their work every day and night. 

Who do you think would most appreciate PARAMEDICS: M.O.S.? 
Most certainly public safety professionals but even more, the  general population who seeks to understand the profession and what it is like to be a rescuer.  Thus, the book is scoped for truly everyone. 

What inspired you to write a book about the involvement of Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics in Emergency Medical Services?
Having been apart of this field for so long, and having been the logistical resource coordinator for NYC EMS during the first bombing attack on the World Trade Center in 1993, I was extremely disappointed how the EMT's and Paramedics who suffered on 9/11 never received any true attention.  They were consistently referred to as "emergency workers", while other rescuers were identified by their proper title. It felt as though EMT's and Paramedic's just didn't matter, as though it wasn't important to those that could, to identify them and give them respect for saving lives and also suffering in the tragedy.

In your book, you touch upon the media’s failure to recognize the role of the EMT/Paramedic in rescue efforts. Why do you think the media does this?
I don't think it's because of the media, I think it is actually more societal.  When people call 9-1-1, they have the rightful expectation that help will arrive.  We easily identify the firefighters or police officers, but EMT's and Paramedics have been cast aside.  Some of this is because of politics at the local community level not wanting to recognize EMS as a true, independent emergency service, as has been the case for many, many decades.  There are many complexities as to why EMS has very often been ostracized instead of appreciated.  I think media essentially grasps the pulse of what the populous expresses, and since there has widely been a lack of recognition in general society; so goes the lack of representation in the media.  I think mainly the specifics, the training and the workings of our insular profession are widely overlooked.  I think if the general public had a better understanding of what the capabilities are of EMT's and Paramedics, and the service they provide; I think that there would be a much greater spotlight on these great rescuers.  At the same time, it is also up to us, the EMT's and Paramedics, to work in a professional manner and earn and maintain that respect.  It is definitely a two-way street. 

What do you think are the biggest misconceptions the public has about EMTs/Paramedics?
Some of the biggest misconceptions include that the public thinks that EMT's/Paramedics are uneducated, callous, lazy, that they like racing with lights and sirens just for the fun of it, that when they see an ambulance or other EMS vehicle coming up behind them or towards them, that it really isn't an emergency.  Also that when EMT's and Paramedics go to treat patients with highly advanced care, that they don't really know what they are doing, that they aren't serious or highly-trained also.

How has the EMT/Paramedic community responded to PARAMEDIC:M.O.S.?
I have been extremely fortunate and humbled by the outpouring of intense elation from the EMS community.  As the book reviews on amazon and other sites will reflect, my peers have made it clear to me that they truly appreciate the angle which I created the book on, to represent us in a way that truly represents us and "humanizes" us to the public.  Some have shared that my book made them become a better medic and even more, a better person.  Some have said my book changed their life and others stated that for they first time, they felt visible to everyone else.  I have been fortunate to receive many five star reviews from the EMS Community. 

What do you hope people will get from reading your book?
I want readers to take away from this book a new-found respect for EMT's and Paramedics everywhere and hopefully humanity in general.  I hope they will pay more attention to these rescuers now and realize that a lot of work goes int o what they do daily.  I also hope that they will find different ways to appreciate their respective partner and mate in their own life, through the connective lines in this book between the characters.  If they find a way to care more deeply for others or a new way to connect to those they care about and love; even better.

What do you have in mind for your next writing project?
I am working on a number of other projects, the subject matter I am keeping close to my vest until it is time to release it.  However I can say that the new material I am working on is also public safety related.

Is there anything else you'd like potential readers to know about your book?
I hope that people will take the time to read it to know about not only the profession, but about the side that they don't see of first responders and how their lives can be affected by the things they see  and do. 

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Tracy J Thomas, Author of Zen in the Garden

Today we are interviewing Tracy J Thomas, author of the nonfiction/motivational book "Zen in the Garden: Finding Peace and Healing Through Nature."

Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am an award-winning photographer, artist, author, and educator living in Northern California. I received my M.F.A. in Photography from the Academy of Art University, San Francisco and my work has appeared in mainstream publications, galleries, and personal collections around the globe. I am a contributing author to the 2012 Seal Press anthology "Dancing at the Shame Prom: Sharing the Stories That Kept Us Small and served on faculty at the San Miguel Writer's Conference and on the "Women Write Their Lives" speaker's panel in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

Describe the purpose of your book in a few sentences.
"Zen in the Garden" came about in the midst of my treatment for skin cancer. It is my way of sharing the healing power of nature through the Zen philosophy of mindfulness. My goal when writing this motivational book was to encourage spiritual awareness through helpful anecdotes and inspirational nature photography. My hope is my readers will slow down and experience the transformational beauty that exists in the small details that surround them on a daily basis.

Who do you think would most appreciate "Zen in the Garden"?
Anyone who is experiencing the stress of a fast-paced, noise-filled life and would like to take some constructive steps towards attaining peace and healing.

What inspired you to write a book about promoting peace, healing, and happiness through the Zen philosophy?
The past few years have been difficult for me. For the first time in my life I experienced health issues that resulted in a lot of stress and fear of the unknown. I found myself consumed with thoughts of "what if" and struggled to find peace of mind. One day in the midst of this stress I grabbed my camera and decided to take macro photos in our garden. I became so mesmerized with the minute details and beauty unfolding before me that I literally forgot about my fears and felt my body let out a deep sigh of relief as I relaxed into the moment. This became my daily routine during my treatment. When I became housebound I would meditate on my nature photographs and soon realized I felt the most peace and happiness when I thought about beautiful moments in my life. I began to write down my thoughts and felt moved to share these things with others who might also feel stressed. Thus the book was born.

What is it about the Zen philosophy that helps people find peace amid a chaotic life?
The practice of mindfulness, living in the moment, is a beautiful and simple concept. This is the aspect of Zen philosophy that has always resonated the most with me personally. Our busy, chaotic, and noisy lives cause us undue stress and anxiety which can lead to illness. Our minds tend to work overtime and are often overwhelmed with shame and regret for things in our past and fear of things we think might happen in the future. When we become overwhelmed with these thoughts, there is little room to enjoy the moment and we miss out on an enormous amount of beauty. The Zen philosophy of mindfulness allows us to clear our minds of all the unnecessary muck, thus releasing stress, and helps to bring about a spiritual awakening to the moment at hand.

How did you make the Zen philosophy approachable for people who have never practiced Buddhism?
I myself am not a practicing Buddhist in the traditional sense although I have studied books by Buddhist authors and do utilize meditation as a daily practice. For me the concept of mindfulness was transformational. For years I suffered from a mind that just wouldn't quit. I was always stressed about the past or worried about the future. When I spent time in nature, whether climbing a mountain peak or planting my garden, it always helped to alleviate that stress and quiet my mind. When I would leave those places the overwhelming stress would return. It wasn't until I began to practice mindfulness in all circumstances of life that the stress became manageable and I began to experience more peace and happiness. The book is written in a practical way that provides anecdotes to ponder, inspirational photographs to meditate on plus gardening tips and nature challenges to encourage readers to take action and begin to experience the small, beautiful things in life. Mindfulness is one of the basic tenets of Zen philosophy that doesn't require years of study and this book presents the concept in everyday terms.

How do you think reading your book will impact people?
My hope is readers of "Zen in the Garden" will begin to recognize the small beauties in each moment and realize the importance of living our lives right now. None of us truly know how much time we have so why waste it away on stress and negative energy?

What do you have in mind for your next writing project?
I am currently working on several books. The next in line for publication is another motivational book on the concept of compassion that will challenge readers to perform one compassionate act daily for thirty days. The working title is "30 Days of Grace: Changing the World Through the Act of Compassion."

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L.B. Johnson, Author of The Book of Barkley

Today we are interviewing L.B. Johnson, author of "The Book of Barkley - Love and Life Through the Eyes of a Labrador Retriever."

Tell us a bit about yourself.
I write as a way to capture so many things around me.  Working in a law enforcement related field, looking at everything in great detail is a big part of my day.  I’m a wife, a rescue dog Mom and a licensed commercial airline pilot.

Describe your book in a few sentences.
The book has been described as memoir, pet essay and eulogy.  In a way it is all three, my story of growing up, dealing with both loss and grief too young and how loving and being responsible for another living thing, literally changed how I viewed the world. 

Who do you think would most appreciate this book?
This book will resonate with anyone who has love or lost, not only two legged friends and family, but four legged. 

What inspired you to write a book about your relationship with Barkley?
Barkley passed away at the same time as my only brother, both to sudden, aggressive cancers.  I wrote The Book of Barkley to capture both of their stories, so others could learn to love and live as they did, even as they remembered them.

Can you tell us about the first time you met Barkley?
He was just a puppy, sitting down at my feet and not leaving my side while his brothers and sisters gave a quick sniff and then went back to play. I think he picked me as opposed to the other way around.

What was it about Barkley that allowed him to have such a positive impact on you?
Barkley, as dogs do, didn’t judge or act based on experiences, prejudices or former pain.  He just looked on each day as a joyous gift, loving everyone around him unconditionally.  That was something I think we all need to learn.

In the book, you talk about how Barkley pulled you from the depths of grief and despair into a life chock-full of love. Can you compare what your life was like before and after meeting Barkley?
I lost three people I loved, in different circumstances, before I was even an adult. Finishing my education and getting a great job was exciting but it was incredibly lonely. I figured if I didn’t let anyone too close to me, they couldn’t hurt me.  Barkley changed that, introducing me to laughter and trust again and inevitably, bringing the man that is now my husband, into my life.

Readers seem to have a strong response to reading your book. What is it about your journey with Barkley that resonates so strongly with readers?
Loving a pet is almost a universal response.  We see ourselves in them, we put so much trust and joy and hope in them.  When they leave us it is heartbreaking, yet we usually go out and learn to love again.  For much of society pet’s aren’t just an animal that shares our home--they are family.

You’re involved with animal rescue and non-profits that help service/search/K9 dogs. Can you tell us a bit about your involvement and what inspired you to get involved?
Every cent of royalties of "The Book of Barkley" is donated to animal non-profits such as Search Dog Foundation, Kevlar for K9’s and dozens of small community rescue groups. Even the smallest bits of support may make a difference in an animal’s life.

What do you have in mind for your next writing project?
My second book “Saving Grace – A Story of Adoption” is being published by Outskirts Press in May of 2015.

Is there anything else you'd like potential readers to know about your book?
It’s sad in spots, as is any book in which a pet is ultimately lost, but there is great joy in it.  I 
hope it is the joy that stays with you.

More Information
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1478734345