Category: Interviews

Interview with Author Brent Golembiewski

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1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

I grew up in Michigan wanting to be a Disney Cartoonist but life had a different plan for me. After high school and a semester in college I joined the Air Force working on F-16s as an avionics tech. I finished my College degree going to night school and was accepted to Officer Training School where I gained my commission and went on to fly helicopters specifically the UH-1N Huey for over 17 years before retiring. My writing journey really began during a deployment to Iraq but it wasn’t until I retired I buckled down and finished my first book. I have published a Sci-Fi trilogy, another stand alone Sci-Fi dystopian novel and a self help book based on my USAF career aimed to help young people who are looking to join the USAF.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

I wrote my current book “The Boy the Cube and the Elf” to target the middle grade readers ages 8-12 with a story that is fast fun and something kids would love to read and hold their attention even if they are not avid readers.

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

The theme I hope to portray is that hard work, good choices and faith in God will help you overcome any obstacle life throws your way.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I have always loved the Sci-fi realm, especially space and the unknown of what’s beyond our solar system. New technology intrigues me and the great potential we have moving forward.

5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

I would love to sit down with Nico and ask him how amazing his journey has been, what he’s learned, how learning things he never would have thought possible has affected him. 

6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

I mainly use Facebook and it has been helpful in some aspects. I see a shift to other platform and are working on learning them and seeing how they can help.

7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

Write, Write Write. Get out there and do it. The world is full of people saying they can only to sit on their hands either scared or distracted. Just start doing it and don’t worry about anything. It’s cliche but be true to yourself.

8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

I’ve just finished the draft for the second book in my central fire series and am publishing “Flick of the Switch” on September 14th. Its a near future sci-fi about a teenage girl who attends a video game academy playing flight simulators only to find out they are real and actually fighting a war. In addition im looking to dip my toe into filming and am in the initial stages of developing a short film based on Flick of the Switch and have the screen play written.

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About the Author

Brent Golembiewski is a U. S. Air Force veteran with 20+ years of service. He started his career as an enlisted troop, working as an Electronic Warfare Technician, and completed it as an officer, never working a day as a Helicopter Evaluator Pilot, flying the mighty UH-1N “Huey”. After retiring from the USAF, he began Valkyrie Air, providing aircraft charter operations for people who find value in time. He met the love of his life in the second-worst place he’d ever been stationed and she’s still on active duty. Together they have two boys, the terrible Ts, and one old caricature of a dog that will never die.

www.authorbrentg.com

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066743936699

https://www.instagram.com/authorbrentg/

Interview with Author Barry Harden

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1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

I was born to a working-class couple in post-WWII London and arrived with significantly less enthusiasm than was had at my procreation. In due time, I was left to my own devices at a very young age with no guidebook for the scenic route or the pitfalls. While animals and nature offered me solace, the injustices I witnessed ignited a growing rage, one that found its voice in scribbled thoughts on pub serviettes, which later took shape as poems and stories

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

In Ada and Eddie, it was recently pointed out to me that the character of Eddie, a homeless drifter, was unconsciously created from my own experiences growing up alone from an early age. I had a home but was spiritually homeless. I wrote Ada as the character who embodied my ideal companion. Amanita Virosa: The Destroying Angel was inspired by the plight of the Romani people during the Bosnia War, in particular a female fighter, Fadila Odžaković Žuta, who was killed at age 34. She served as my inspiration for Amanita.

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

My novels are rooted in a deep commitment to address issues which I’m passionate about: social inequality, the preservation of nature and wildlife, and society’s power to address the challenges of political malfeasance. In writing fact-based political thrillers, I aim to bring these injustices to light and engage readers who might not seek such information in nonfiction formats. Stories of ordinary citizens fighting for change can inspire readers to demand accountability, participate in civic life, and push for reforms.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

The political thriller genre allows me to weave serious ideas into compelling narratives, shedding light on real historical events and abuses of power while keeping readers engaged and on the edge of their seats. It’s a way of holding up a mirror to the world while hoping people look deep enough to see what lies beneath.

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5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

I’d sit down with Eddie, the homeless man who discovers the body on the moors. His ostracization, his quiet endurance, and his humility mirror much of what I’ve experienced myself. I’d ask him how he manages to hold on to his sense of self in a world that insists on making him invisible. I’d want to know where he finds the strength to keep going when so much has been stripped away—because in truth, I’ve often asked myself the same question.

6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

Facebook and Goodreads have been somewhat helpful but reviewers and bloggers such as yourself bring invaluable exposure to readers.

7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

Read as many notable authors in your genre as possible and note what makes their stories work. Ensure your work is grammatically flawless and has a clear story arc. Use reviewers or beta readers not related to you to give unbiased opinions.

8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

I’ve just published a memoir, Throwaway, and completed a new thriller, Carney, about a Jamaican crusader for victims of abuse and social injustice.

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About the Author

I am the author of five political thrillers, a collection of provocative short stories, and a book of dark poetry. Sociopolitical commentary is infused into my work, whether through fictional narratives, allegorical short stories or scathing satire that exposes the absurdities of human interaction with each other, animals, and the environment.

When not writing, I find solace in a glass (or two) of a well-aged Corbières while listening to Black jazz of the 20s and 30s. Born and raised in North Harrow, London, I now enjoy the peace and comfort of nature and wildlife and the company of my feral furry friends in my cat sanctuary. A change of scenery to the seashore sparks creativity—without the distraction of my cats adding their input on the keyboard.

Website: www.barryhardenauthor.com

YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@barryharden-writer

Interview with Author Marina Osipova

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1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

The idea of becoming a writer never entered my mind until I moved to the United States from Russia. With my little English, I, inevitably, should have set my mind on studying the language seriously. I signed up for an ESL course in Manhattan, NY. To evaluate the level of my knowledge, the teacher asked me to write a quick test. “My name is . . . I was born in . . . I came from . . . Something like that,” she said. Boring, I thought. Let me write a story, I decided, and I did. It was about a young man in the subway car, who took a sit facing me. He blew his nose into his blue and white floral kerchief, scrutinized the result, then wound the kerchief around his head covered with dark, long, braided hair.

Next time I had the class, during the break, I presented my very first literary opus to the teacher. While she was reading it, I watched her eyebrows shooting up several times. Returning the paper with my scribbles, she said, “You should publish it.” Years later, after two manuscripts, one of 600 pages and the other of 260 (eventually, I buried them somewhere in the bottomless deposits of my PC) the idea of writing a story, which would be set up during WWII came to my head. Since then, I have published seven books, all WWII historical fiction, except for the last one, which is a bit different.

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 2) What inspired you to write your book?

My own life. I was born in East Germany, in Beelitz-Heilstätten, a Soviet military hospital, and since I can remember myself, I wanted to visit the place. My desire came true in 2018. The history of the place is so rich and ominous, I couldn’t help but to tell its story to my readers.

 3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

WWI, WWII . . . Other wars . . . Before and after . . . Wars wasted millions of innocent lives. What for? The territories? Subsoils with deposits of minerals? Somebody’s (or of a group of individuals) ambitions? Lust for power and recognition? Why do some people become murderers? Isn’t it all relevant today?

I hope the readers of my book will close the last page and ask themselves, “Why?” and “Should we remember?”

“The one who doesn’t remember history is bound to live through it again.” — George Santayana.

 4) What drew you into this particular genre?

All my published books are historical fiction. This one, to some extent, is too. To integrate my personal life experiences and biographical details, I resolved to turn to the elements of time-slip, thriller, and psychological drama so to broaden my readership, to make my book more appealing to those who are interested in these other genres.

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 5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

Writing WWII historical fiction, I subconsciously wanted to come face to face with Adolf Hitler—his inescapable presence is obvious in all my books. I made this wish come true in this story. If you read it, you’ll feel my feelings and disgust at this evil of the 20th century. Unfortunately, his insidious influence on some minds expands—a sickening trend tendency!

 6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

Bloggers like you, Anthony, and FB helped me to find most of the like-minded people, writers and readers.

7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

Who was it who said that everyone has a story to tell? If you feel you can’t continue living without telling your story/stories to the world or just to yourself, don’t suppress this inner push – write and see if it makes you happy. Don’t think about fame and money. Only a bunch of authors live on royalties. Do it for your inner peace and excitement. Trust yourself. Write only if you feel you’ll “drown” if you don’t. Write from your soul. If the process, however difficult, brings you joy, it’s a sign you are a writer.

 8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

My problem is that too many enticing stories live in my head, waiting to be spilled into my PC screen. Time will show which one will win next time.

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About the author

Marina Osipova was born in East Germany into a military family and grew up in Russia, where she graduated from the Moscow State Institute of History and Archives. When she was five, she decided she wants to speak German and, years later, she earned a diploma as a German language translator from the Moscow State Institute of Foreign Languages. In Russia, she worked first in a scientific-technical institute as a translator, then in a Government Ministry in the office of international relations, later for some Austrian firms. For many years, she lived in New York, working in a law firm, and then in Austria for several years. In the spring of 2022, after spending ten months in Russia, some unfortunate world events brought her back to the United States.

A long-standing member of the Historical Novel Society, she is dedicated to writing historical fiction, especially related to WWII. Her books garnered numerous literary awards, including a 1st Place WINNER of the 2021 Hemingway Book Awards novel competition for 20th Century Wartime Fiction (a division of the Chanticleer International Book Awards). At some point or another, all her books hit the Amazon Top 100 lists in Historical Russian Fiction and Historical German Fiction and even #1 or #2 in War Fiction in Canada, the UK, and Australia.

Her readers praise her books for emotional realism, for taking on a subject few authors have touched, for writing with heart and compassion while not holding back from hard cold realities of war, for giving an authentic and in-depth look at a culture that tends to baffle westerners.

Osipova is passionately dedicated to the stories she writes, but when away from her desk and laptop, she, even if for one time, knows how it feels to fly with a helicopter over the Alaskan glaciers, to jump with a parachute upstate NY, to dive to the bottom of the Black Sea with a scuba gear, to fish on a little boat in the Gulf of Siam and catch a real shark however small. She brags about mounting a pensive elephant in Thailand, or an apathetic camel in Gran Canaria. She will never forget her experience riding a retired Russian circus mare who tried to throw her off, which she found much scarier than riding a Suzuki Hayabusa motorcycle at a speed of up to 260 km/h (about 162 mph). She experienced a thrill while zip lining through boreal forests at a dizzying height. She will never forget that feeling of humble ecstasy while performing on stage of an off-off (but close) Broadway; the most profound excitement she experienced as Marquerite in Camino Real by Tennessee Williams and Queen Elizabeth in The Dark Lady of the Sonnets by George Bernard Shaw. What other dreams does she have? Well . . . to find herself inside a Cheops pyramid (not like a mummy) and write all the stories that populate her head. The To-Write-List is big and growing.

Website: https://www.marina-osipova.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marina.osipova.14/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4701687.Marina_Osipova

Interview with Author Joel McKay

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1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

When I was 12, my best friend told me I was too old to play with action figures and it wasn’t “cool” anymore. I had some pretty elaborate action figure-based stories underway I didn’t want to lose track of, so I started writing them down. That’s how it all started and it’s never stopped.

2) What inspired you to write your book?

I’ve wanted to write a fun fantasy adventure novel since I was 12. It’s the genre I started with and loved the most. So this new novel is really an ode to pocketbook fantasy adventures that I grew up reading and enjoying.

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

In so many ways this book is about courage: the courage to keep going, the courage to set boundaries, the courage to forgive. It’s also about the journey, it’s the adventure itself that matters, less so the outcome.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I’ve been drawn to fantasy all my life, it’s pure escapist magic but also founded in great truths about the human experience. I think through fantasy you can have a flashy, fun rollicking adventure and also say things about life in a way that’s far simpler and more impactful because of the fantastic setting. That appeals to me.

5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

I’d sit down with Ruddlefunt and ask him to tell me the entire history of Roan and everything packed into his mechanical head. We only get shades of it in the story, and the characters are too darned caught up in their own dramas to realize he’s the treasure.

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6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

Instagram, likely. In all honesty, I’m not great at social media. I try to keep it alive as best I can but it’s not my strength, never has been.

7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

Just write. Enjoy the craft. Enjoy the process. Have fun with it even when you’re not. And when you’re not, take a break, then get back to it.

8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

The Dungeoneers and the Treasure of Roan is due out August 15th. I’m also starting edits on a full-length epic cosmic horror novel now … should see the light of day in a year or two…

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About the Author

Joel McKay is an award-winning author, journalist and executive from Northern British Columbia. His fiction includes the horror comedy novella Wolf at the Door, the anthology It Came From the Trees and Other Violent Aberrations and a host of short stories published in various anthologies and online.

https://www.joelmckay.ca/

Interview with Author Glenda Benevides 

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1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

I’m a lifelong artist and GRAMMY®-nominated singer-songwriter who has spent years touring the world, recording music, and connecting with audiences through performance. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been writing—not just songs, but stories woven with meaning. Lyricism was my first language of expression, born from a deep desire to uplift, inspire, and reflect the human experience.

My transition into writing books was a surprising evolution. I was wondering if my experiences were valuable and supportive to others. So, I began putting pen to page in a outline as a way to offer deeper introspection—sharing hard-won insights, soul reflections, and lessons on courage, confidence, self-expression, and the power of finding your voice. Writing became another stage, another kind of performance—this time to let others know they matter, they’re powerful, and their dreams are more than possible… they’re sacred and important.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

As a singer songwriter, I’ve always expressed myself through music, doing my own internal transformational work and just listening to people, but I found myself wondering: could the life lessons I’ve lived through, the trials I’ve overcome, and the wisdom I’ve gained offer something meaningful beyond the stage? That curiosity sparked the beginning of my journey into writing a book.

When I looked back at my own path—from heartache to healing, frustration to clarity—I saw patterns. I realized that I had moved through life guided by five core principles: Clarity, Courage, Confidence, Commitment, and Community. These weren’t just abstract ideals—they were a sequence, a roadmap. And they were the very tools that helped me express my voice fully and rise above life’s  continued challenges.

I felt called to share that process in a way that was both intimate and practical—a teaching memoir that could serve as a companion for anyone seeking to express themselves more boldly and live more purposefully. My book is an invitation to claim your own voice, to find your fire, and to turn your dreams into reality—step by step, with grace and grit.

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

I hope readers walk away with the deep knowing that they matter—and that their voice, their dreams, and their truth are not only valid, but vital. Huge Value! You never know who’ll you’ll touch by being you! At its heart, this book is a call to action: to awaken the clarity within you, summon the courage to stand in your truth, and embrace the confidence to express yourself fully—no matter what the world says or throw’s at you.

It’s about reclaiming your power and remembering that you are the author of your own story. Through each chapter, I want readers to feel supported, seen, and equipped with practical steps they can use to break through limitations and move toward a life that is authentic, inspired, and fiercely free.

This book is more than words—it’s a mirror, a mentor, and a musical note echoing the anthem: You are enough. You are powerful. And your time is now. MUSIC UNITY ACTION is my theme – what is YOURS?

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4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I was drawn to this genre because it allows me to merge storytelling with soul work. As a singer-songwriter, I’ve always been in the business of truth-telling through emotion—turning life’s raw moments into lyrics that move people. Writing in the self-help/memoir genre felt like a natural extension of that same mission. Body, Mind and Spirit!

I didn’t want to just share my story—I wanted to offer something useful, something that could light the way for others on their own journey. This genre gave me the freedom to be vulnerable while also being practical and courageous. It let me blend personal experience with transformational tools that empower others to rise, to express, and to heal. To consider getting support to move through feeling stuck and to just ask. 

Ultimately, I chose this path because it reflects who I am at the core: an artist, a mentor, and a woman deeply committed to helping others find their voice and step into their power.

5) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

Honestly, while social media is a easy tool to stay visible and share updates, it’s live performance, interviews and real human connection that have truly built my readership and following. There’s something powerful and unforgettable about being in a room with people—sharing stories, music, and energy in real time. That’s where the magic happens. That’s where trust and resonance are born.

Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook have been fine in keeping the conversation going and letting people see behind the scenes. But it’s the face-to-face, heart-to-heart moments that truly deepen connection and turn listeners or readers into lifelong supporters.

6) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

Just do it—leap! Don’t wait until you think you’re “ready” or everything is perfect, because the truth is, your voice is needed now. Writing isn’t about being flawless—it’s about being fearless in your authenticity.

Have fun with it. Let your curiosity lead the way. Most importantly, connect to the passion and purpose behind your words. When you fall in love with who you are and what you want to share, the writing becomes electric—it speaks, it sings, it resonates.

Trust that your story matters. Start where you are, write from the heart, and remember: every great author was once a beginner who decided to be brave.

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About the Author

Glenda the author, is celebrated for her motivational and empowering works, she has penned four impactful books: “Courage,” “Find Your Fire and Ignite Action in Your Life,” the e-book “Soul On Fire,” and “Own The Goddess Within.” Each book offers a unique blend of inspiration, practical advice, and deep introspection, guiding readers to discover their inner strength and ignite their passions. Additionally, the author has collaborated with visual artist DS Thornburg on “Grimoire of Lost Lore,” a captivating fusion of evocative storytelling and mesmerizing visuals, further showcasing their versatile creativity and profound ability to inspire.

(Music.Unity.Action) GlendaBenevides.com  Musician, Author, Altruist 

Interview with Author JM Shaw

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Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

I have been an avid writer for over thirty years, ever since my mom bought me a typewriter—yes, I’m that old. Exercising my creative muscles has become more than a hobby; it has grown into a passion that, at times, borders on obsession. Fortunately, writing is decidedly cheaper than therapy. 

In 2019, I was diagnosed with autism and ADHD. This was a surprise, but rather than viewing my neurodiversity as a hindrance, I choose to see it as a gift. It offers me a unique lens through which to see the world and infuses my creative works with distinctiveness and depth. 

Over the years, I have filled several hard drives with poems, short stories, and full-length novels, yet there are still countless ideas rattling around in my head, just waiting to be unleashed. 

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What inspired you to write your book?

I’ve always been a “what if” kind of person, and my muse for this series was sparked by the question: “What if fairy tales were more than stories, and monsters were flesh and blood?”

As someone who believes in good triumphing over evil, I started my series with the idea that my protagonist would strive to do good in the world—whether they wanted to or not. Along the way, I drew inspiration from the Arthurian legends, particularly the tales of Merlin, whose power and wisdom have fascinated me.

In many ways, my protagonist became my vision of a young Merlin, brimming with potential, longing for a normal life, but burdened by magical gifts that make such a life impossible.

What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

The overarching theme in my series is being true to oneself despite life’s challenges, trusting those we love to have our backs, and finding a sense of belonging. I enjoy tackling mental health issues—such as guilt, despair, and loneliness—and demonstrating how my characters overcome their adversity in an adventure setting. I also routinely incorporate wholesome messages that give my readers something to think about. 

In my latest novel, Forsaken Souls, my protagonist’s metaphysical and magical abilities continue to grow, bordering on uncontrollable, which is both worrying and dangerous. At the same time, Callum is traumatized from the events of the first three novels—particularly those of the third book—which have tainted his outlook and self-concept.  Instead of facing his fears, he avoids them, which only deepens his pain. Only by trusting in those he loves, leaning on their strength, and confronting his past can he begin to heal. 

Callum’s journey is ultimately one of identity, trust, and connection, a reminder that family and friends are invaluable. I hope readers take to heart the message that emotional pain after trauma is a normal part of life, but the strength to overcome our torment is found through the bonds we forge with our loved ones.

What drew you into this particular genre?

I’m drawn to those genres that offer me creative freedom, and fantasy adventure gives me exactly that. I’m also partial to sci-fi, supernatural, paranormal, thrillers, and horror. Basically, any genre that allows me to explore outlandish concepts while weaving adventure and action into my novels is appealing. Although each genre requires a unique frame of mind, and with the latter two, I must leave the lights on while I write to avoid nightmares. 

Oddly enough, I never set out to write an epic fantasy adventure; it just happened naturally. And while I’m committed to finishing my Callum Walker Series, I will eventually branch into other genres.

If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

Honestly, I already know everything there is to know about my characters—their histories, desires, fears, and the choices they’ll make. So rather than asking them a question, I think I’d sit with them. Maybe offer a moment of peace, or even a heartfelt “thank you” for letting me tell their story.

If I had to ask something, it might be this: “Do you forgive me for everything I’ve put you through?”


Because, as any author knows, there is no story without conflict, and we aren’t always kind to our characters.

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What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

Instagram and Facebook are my preferred platforms for building readership. Their visual nature allows me to showcase my novels, share behind-the-scenes content, and connect more personally with fans and fellow authors. That said, nothing compares to the impact of face-to-face interactions. Author events and book signings are, without a doubt, my most effective tool—those who take the time to stop and chat often feel a stronger connection to both me and my work. From there, word of mouth takes over, which I’ve found to be the most powerful and lasting form of promotion.

What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

Perseverance, especially in the face of criticism, is essential for any writer. You can’t please everyone, and there will always be those who dislike your work. But writing is a passion—untamed and unscripted—it is about personal expression rather than pleasing the masses. You must hold tightly to your reason for writing or risk losing sight of your passion as you pursue everyone else’s expectations. Otherwise, your art will become emotionless and void of authenticity. Thusly, every time I sit down to write, I remind myself that whatever I create must come from the heart. After all, that is where the magic lives.

What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

I’m currently working my way through the fifth novel in my Callum Walker Series, with the sixth already in development. Beyond that, I’m toying with the idea of writing a standalone or a novel set outside my current series—something more sci-fi than fantasy, fresh and creatively liberating.

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About the Author

J.M. Shaw lives in Airdrie, Alberta, with her husband and two young children. She and her family embarked upon a journey of understanding, acceptance, and life-long learning when they discovered their shared diagnosis of autism and ADHD.   Writing is her passion and, with experience and interests in healthcare, psychology, martial arts, and personal training, she pours her unique insights and knowledge into all her creative fictions.

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Interview with Author Tong Ge

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Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

Born and raised in China, I moved to Canada after earning a degree in banking and finance and later a Master’s in Agricultural Economics. My love for storytelling ignited during China’s Cultural Revolution, when my father, a targeted professor, secretly shared banned stories by candlelight during power outages, sparking my lifelong interest in reviving those tales. Facing childhood bullying, I used storytelling as a shield, sharing these stories and folk tales with classmates for protection. My writing received early recognition in elementary school when my diary was used as school-wide reading material, and I further honed my performance skills by joining the school storytelling team in Grade 4. I began writing poetry in college.

After living in Canada for sixteen years, I decided to write my family stories into novels. I immersed myself in writing courses and voracious reading. My first English piece was published by PRISM International in 2012. Since then, my poems, prose, and short stories in both English and Chinese have appeared across North America, England, and Taiwan, earning six literary awards and finalist nominations for five others. My debut novel, “The House Filler,” published in Canada in 2023, was a finalist for the 2023 Eyelands Book Awards and the 2024 Canadian Book Club Awards for fiction. It also won the 2024 Independent Press Award for new fiction, the National Association of Independent Writers and Editors (NAIWE) Award for Literary Fiction, and second place for the BookFest Award in literary-historical fiction.

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What inspired you to write your book?

My books are all inspired by the stories of my family and my own life experiences.

What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

What happened in early 20th-century China is still relevant today—wars, totalitarian regimes, poverty, and the ongoing issue of gender inequality in many parts of the world. As a species, we haven’t advanced as much as we might think. People need to be aware that freedom is never truly free; it can be taken away in an instant if we’re not vigilant.

I also want my readers to consider this question: Are humans inherently cruel, merely pretending to be civilized until circumstances like war strip away our veneer? Or are we fundamentally kind, with war turning us into beasts? I believe that without consequences, humans are capable of committing atrocities against one another. While some readers have cried while reading the book and even warned others to have tissues ready, I hope they do not only feel sadness. Instead, I want them to be inspired by the resilience of the human spirit and to recognize that we are stronger than we realize. As long as we are alive, there is hope.

What drew you into this particular genre?

The House Filler is based on my grandmother’s story and covers the time span between 1920 and 1966, making it historical fiction.

If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

it would be my grandmother. The character of Golden Phoenix is based on her life story, and I would ask her for more details to enrich the narrative further.

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What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

It is WeChat groups for me.

What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

To succeed as a writer: first, be driven by passion, as financial rewards are often delayed. Second, be prepared for years of hard work and long hours, fueled by your love for writing. Third, dedicate yourself to continuous learning by taking courses, reading craft books, and, most importantly, reading widely to learn from others and identify pitfalls. Cultivate humility by being open to feedback; multiple people pointing out an issue likely means it needs revision. Finally, perseverance is crucial. Writing is a long journey, so never give up, even when facing significant time investments and rejections.

What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

My next book, inspired by my parents’ lives, will also be historical fiction. The third book is based on my own story; it is character-driven and reflects my love of poetry and language, making it a work of literary fiction.

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About the Author

Born and raised in China, Tong Ge moved to Canada in the late 1980s as an international student, earning a Master of Science degree from the University of Saskatchewan in 1992. Since 2012, she has written under both her real name and the pen name Tong Ge, publishing poetry, prose, and short stories in English and Chinese across North America, England, and Taiwan. A recipient of four literary awards and a finalist for five others. Her debut novel, “The House Filler,” was published in Canada in 2023. It is a finalist for the 2023 Eyelands Book Awards and the 2024 Canadian Book Club Awards for fiction and won the 2024 Independent Press Award for new fiction and National Association of Independent Writers and Editors (NAIWE) Award for Literary Fiction. 

Interview with Author Alison McBain

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

Writing is probably the only thing I’ve done my whole life. The first story I ever wrote (according to my parents) was when I was four and it was a horror story about the monster in the closet. And while I don’t think that original story will ever see the light of day, I haven’t stopped writing since then.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

My novel The New Empire is an alternate history, and it asks the question: What if the Chinese Empire sent ships to the Americas much earlier than the Europeans – how would it have reshaped the world? My inspiration actually came from an article I read many years ago that said there was some archeological evidence that this might have happened, and that Chinese ships, which were the most technologically advanced at the time, could have landed on the West Coast of South America. It sparked my imagination, and the story took off from there.

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

I feel that most books, no matter the genre, do have some commentary that is relevant to modern readers. So, while my book is set in the past, there are a lot of themes that are important to what’s happening in the world today. There’s the struggle between the haves and the have-nots, the many injustices of the power system, and the duality most of us feel in today’s global world. My main character happens to be trapped in between a number of worlds, and I think that’s something a lot of people today can identify with.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I’m a history buff – I studied African history and classical literature in university, but long before that, you could have found me in the depths of a library as a child with my nose in a book. What’s come before now is fascinating to me—how our present has been built, layer by layer, upon the events of the past. There’s the old adage, “Those who cannot remember the past are doomed to repeat it.” Well, I feel that we will always be doomed in such a way when there are people in power who don’t take their lessons from human history. Since I’m not a politician, all I can do is open up the door to the past (and the imagined past) with my words.

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5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

I think I would sit down with Onas, the slaveowner who’s at the center of so much that happens in my novel. But I don’t know if I would ask him any questions. I would wait and let him to reveal his wisdom to me, and he would probably do so through the stories and legends of the past from the Amah Mutsun and Onödowáʼga peoples.

6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

I’m on several social media platforms, but I have to say two of the most helpful have been Medium.com and Vocal.media. Both are blogging platforms where you can share your writing and interact directly with readers, and I enjoy getting that personalized feedback and talking to others who love to read.

7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

There’s so much advice out there, and some of it’s very specific and some of it’s very general. But the problem as a new writer is getting bogged down in advice and not actually doing any writing! So, what I like to say is: ignore all the advice. Just sit down and write the story you want to tell. After you write “The End” is when you should open up all the advice books and start editing and looking for a publisher or agent. The most important thing is getting the words on the page.

8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

Last year, I just finished a project called “Author Versus AI.” Essentially, I was setting out to write a book a week for a year, using NO AI at all – just to show a human author can write almost as fast as a computer, but hopefully much better. I didn’t quite reach my goal of 52 books, but ended up with 34. However, as you probably know, a first draft is not a final draft. Right now, I’m going through all the books and editing them, which will probably keep me occupied for the next year or more!

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About the Author

Alison McBain’s novels are the recipients of over 13 awards, including the Foreword INDIES. Her latest novella Dual was longlisted for the 3-Day Novel Contest. When not writing for herself, she’s a ghostwriter who has penned over two dozen books for clients, as well as an award-winning editor who has worked with both celebrity and NY Times-bestselling authors. She’s currently pursuing a project called “Author Versus AI,” where she’s writing a book a week over the course of a year, using NO AI at all (52 books total). When not writing, Ms. McBain is associate editor for the magazine ScribesMICRO and draws all over the walls of her house with the enthusiastic help of her kids. She lives in Alberta, Canada.

https://www.alisonmcbain.com/

Interview with Author Doug Lawrence

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

I was born and raised on a Saskatchewan farm. I am a retired Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer having served for 25 years. As a result of my service, I ended up with PTSD and struggled with that until my family and I were able to manage my behaviours. I was not a nice person to live with. I lost my mom to cancer in 2007 and my dear wife to cancer in 2021. Battling the grief that goes with losing someone so important to your mental health and well-being has been an on goi ng challenge.

I got into writing as a result of some encouragement by a colleague that I went through the RCMP training with. He had written a book that was the cumulation of motivational messages he sent to his children on a daily basis. He saw that I had been writing articles on mentoring and posting them to a blog site. That was the beginning of my writing career.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

Having first hand experience in being exposed to and dealing with my own grief and the grief of others was a calling that I had to help others on their healing journey and to help myself at the same time. I had numerous people reach out to me to provide them with the tools they needed to help with their healing journey. It was from those interactions that I saw writing as therapeutic and a way to increase my knowledge as a grief mentor.

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

The most important message is that it is okay to cry and express your emotions as part of your healing. It is okay to reach out and ask for help. This was a natural fit for who I am and what I am.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

My calling is that of a healer. I need a sense of purpose and that purpose must fuel my ability to heal myself and others.

5) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

The site that has been the most helpful has been LinkedIn. When I share my content it is always LinkedIn, FaceBook and what we use to know as Twitter. Through all of this though LinkedIn has been my go-to site to reach my followers.

6) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

Stay focused and committed. Allocate time for writing on a daily basis. Take time for you and for your writing. Know the audience that you are reaching out to. Your writing needs to fill your sense of purpose.

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About the Author

Doug Lawrence is the founder of TalentC® and is focused on all things mentoring as a solution provider. Doug Lawrence is an International Certified Mentor and holds two Mentor Certifications; Certificate of Practice – Mentor and the Certificate of Practice – Journey Mentor from the International Mentoring Community. Doug is the only one to hold the Certificate of Practice – Journey Mentor in the world today.

He has over 30 years of mentoring and leadership experience and is recognized as a thought leader in the mentoring space. Doug authored the book entitled, “The Gift of Mentoring” and his second book entitled, “You Are Not Alone” became an Amazon #1 Best Seller in North America and the UK and is a  Bronze medal recipient in the Global Book Awards. Doug is an International Best – Selling Author.

Doug’s Practice of Mentoring continues to grow and has resulted in his accumulation of 3,400 hours of mentoring (in person and virtual), 235 hours of speaking opportunities and 672 hours teaching others how to effectively mentor. Doug has been the guest on approximately 150 podcasts in the past year on the topics of mentoring, mental health and grief.