Tag: author-interviews

Interview with Author Samantha Evans Tschritter 

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

In fifth grade, my cousins and I sat in the back of my dad’s station wagon on the way to a birthday party. Throughout the entire drive, I told this story called “The Bunny Burglars” that I came up with on the spot. Telling stories in a compelling fashion has always come so easily to me, I took it for granted. 

I wrote my first novel in 2006 in a spiral notebook. My marriage was struggling at the time and writing provided a healthy coping mechanism. I did end up typing that one out, but it’s still unpublished. Maybe one day. 

The Prodigal’s Son: Crackhead to Jesus Freak, a true story, releases January 1,2026, which was a huge undertaking. I’m excited to step back into fiction this year.

2) What inspired you to write your book? 

I write stories for fun. I would rather write a book than read one. I’d rather write a book than watch TV. I love crafting stories. What I often tell people is, “I wanted to write quality fiction that I wasn’t embarrassed for my daughters to read.” As a mom, I know there are a ton of parents out there who feel the same way. A few months ago, Dressed in Love Press picked up my romantic suspense series. My debut novel, The Lakeshore’s Secret comes out in March 2026. 

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

The core message of The Lakehouse 

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

Romantic suspense? I love a good Hallmark movie, first of all, and I have fun writing my characters into seemingly impossible situations and then trying to figure out how to get them out. 

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


I’d sit down with Grandma Millie and write down hers stories as she told them to me. I believe the older generations are walking around with buried treasure of life experience, wisdom, and stories in their memories. 

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

Reels that depict excerpts of the book are gaining momentum on Instagram and Tiktok. I haven’t tried this strategy much yet, but if you follow me @SETschritter, we can see how viewers respond together. My social media is a constant work-in-progress. 

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


Don’t quit. The ones who make it are the ones who don’t quit. Do at least one thing to promote yourself every single day.

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

I’ve hired a voice actress to record an audio version of The Prodigal’s Son: Crackhead to Jesus Freak and I’m pretty excited to write books two and three of The Lakeshore Mysteries. 

AND NOW THE AUTHOR’S ANSWERS FOR THEIR NON-FICTION WORK

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

On accident. I wasn’t paying attention. In third grade, teachers announced a poetry contest. I whipped up a poem in five minutes, submitted it, and won first place at district. Much later in life, when I had several books available for sale, friends told me ‘normal people don’t write books for fun.’ That’s when I discovered I was an author. The first version of Love Letters to Miscarriage Moms actually started out as journal entries I wrote while I processed the grief of my first infant loss experience. At first, I had no intention of writing a book. But after facing that loneliness and not being able to find great content on the subject, I adjusted the writing style and turned my journal entries into a book. The tag was “You are not alone. Written in the midst of my grief so you will not be alone in yours.” 

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

My late husband asked me to write his story. He asked, “What are the chances I’d be married to an author whose best work comes from wounds?” Phew. Glad that one’s written. The Prodigal’s Son: Crackhead to Jesus Freak was not cathartic. I tell people who’ve read the Harry Potter series that The Prodigal’s Son is my horcrux. Writing the story required me to dive into a very dark place that cost pieces of my soul. But for the sake of the people whose lives will change from reading that one, I would do it all again.

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

You are worthy of love. You are not beyond redemption. Here’s part of the back cover copy: From gutter to pulpit to ditch to grace to grave, The Prodigal’s Son speaks volumes of a God who crawls into the darkest corners of humanity and redeems those who believe they aren’t worth saving.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?


There are a lot of people who battle shame who need to hear this story. I feel like there’s a lot of conservative Christian content and I’m seeing more liberal content, but there’s a huge group unrepresented in the middle. This story features two Christians who are vulnerably honest about their sin. Clint with his addiction battles and me with my self-righteous judgement. Here’s my target audience for The Prodigal’s Son: Crackhead to Jesus Freak. I nicknamed the audience Paul Simon, a moniker for The Prodigal’s Son:

Paul Simon is anyone who has ever uttered the words, “I am a piece of shit.” He believes he isn’t good enough, or suspects he might not be, and measures himself against an intangible line of his own creation. Coping with the Good Enough Demon presents itself differently. Paul might be an addict, an over-eater, a workaholic, a fitness fanatic, a mom over-involved in extracurriculars, a rights activist, or a couch potato who binges Hulu at the end of an exhausting workday. 

Paul considers himself a Christian but confesses this with hesitancy. Church is reminiscent of the past, a long-lost friend he no longer feels connected to. Something about church makes Paul skittish —a church wound, skepticism of theology, disappointment regarding the church’s relevance to his daily life, or frustration toward the hypocrites and fakes he sees sitting in the pews. 

Paul is both male and female, approximately ages late 20’s to early 60’s, and spends most of his social media time on Tiktok, Youtube, or Instagram. He resonates with edgy, authentic influencers such as Kevin Lawson, John B. Christ, and possibly Kelly K Ministries, who intermix their faith into the hilarious stories they share. 

Paul listens to trending artists such as Jelly Roll, Brantly Gilbert, Katy Perry and Kelly Clarkson, who sing about overcoming addictions and trials. Jelly Roll songs such as “Hard Fought Hallelujah” and “Winning Streak” cause Paul to miss church, while Hozier’s “Take Me To Church” reminds him why he left.  

He might be single, or married with children. Either way, Paul won’t waste time with disingenuous relationships. Trust comes hard for Paul because too many people have disappointed him. He craves more fulfillment in his life but doesn’t possess the energy or the knowledge to change. Paul knows there’s more to life than he sees and wishes there was more to God than the church suggests. 

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

Honestly? TikTok. I had one reel go viral and gained 21K followers from that reel, which translated into preorder sales. My newsletter numbers nearly tripled. But I think I’m an anomaly. 

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

You have to want it. Really want it. 82% of Americans say they want to write a book. Less than 3 percent actually do. And only about 1% actually publish a book. And then actually selling books? Marketing? Chop that 1% by another fraction. So, if you really want it, and you’re part of that 1%, here is my best advice:


1.) Attend a writers conference
2.) Promote yourself at least once/ day
3.) Don’t quit

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About the Author

Multi-award-winning author Sam. E. Tschritter (pronounced Shridder) specializes in articulating grief and loss, leading grievers toward hope and healing. Whether poetry, fiction, or non-fiction, Tschritter writes content that will stick with readers long after they close the cover. Her 20-plus years of leadership experience and contributions to over 40 books enable her to serve others, speaking truth with transparency, humor, and love. Tschritter grew up in Chicagoland and has also lived in Minnesota and Oregon, granting her widespread views of people all over the country. She currently resides in Simpsonville, South Carolina with her husband, their three teen and preteen daughters, cats named Pitter and Patter, and their Siberian husky whom she lost the vote to name Onomatopoeia. Nothing refreshes Tschritter’s soul like gardening. She gardens to work through plot holes, writer’s block, character development, and book ideas. Tschritter spends a great deal of time gardening. Read more at https://loveunedited.com or Linktr.ee/LoveSamEvans.

Interview with Author Sienna Ross

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

 I’m a 55-year-old with a 35-year career in sales, life coaching, and building and leading teams. Writing has been a passion of mine since childhood, and only now have I found the courage to publish my first book.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

 I was inspired to write my book by my friend’s and my own life experiences and the challenges I’ve overcome along the way. Writing has always been a way for me to process emotions and share stories, and I wanted to turn that into something that could resonate with and hopefully empower others.

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

 The main message is that no matter how difficult life gets, there is always a chance to start over and find your way to well-being.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

 I was drawn to this genre because the subject of physical and emotional abuse in relationships remains relevant year after year and many people are stuck in unhappy life.

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

I would ask her how she managed to rise up again and again after everything she went through, because that strength truly inspires me. 

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

TikTok 

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

Be brave and trust your story and yourself!

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

 I’m currently waiting for the audiobook version of Not Here Anymore to be released, and there will definitely be a sequel to this first book — with more books to come in the future.

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About the Author

Welcome – I’m Sienna Ross, author of bold stories that follow people through love, loss, escape, and reinvention.

My writing blends raw truth with atmospheric storytelling — from violent pasts to distant cities, from painful goodbyes to unexpected strength.

I come from very humble beginnings, yet I started working at 17 and built my path through success in sales, team building, and leadership. As a licensed life coach, I have supported many people in overcoming obstacles and stepping into their true potential. My book carries the same mission: to remind readers that no matter the hardships, we all have the power to rise and create a life of strength and purpose

 If you believe that stories can heal, challenge, and empower — you’re in the right place.

Through my work, I help individuals overcome challenges, build resilience, and find the courage to move forward even when life feels unbearable. With a rare combination of business insight and human empathy, I bring authenticity, depth, and inspiration to my writing.

My book reflects this mission—it is more than just a story; it is a powerful reminder that no matter how dark the past, it is always possible to rebuild, heal, and create a meaningful future.

Book is available from https://www.amazon.com/Not-Here-Anymore-Sienna-Ross/dp/B0FLF3FVDJ

My instagram page is https://www.instagram.com/siennarossauthor/#

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https://www.tiktok.com/@sienna.ross_author/photo/7546669948391705878?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7505964151430006315

Interview with Author James W.A.

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

My name is James W. A., I was born in Tampa, Florida and moved to Kansas City, Missouri about a year ago and it’s been such an adventure in between. I think I’ve always enjoyed writing to some degree, but I really started taking it seriously in 2007, maybe 2008. I’m the kind of guy that has strong emotions and especially in younger years, writing was a good outlet for those emotions, both positive and negative. I kind of struggle with sticking to long-form projects like novels, but the school librarian once recommended a book of poetry to me and while I can’t remember the name of the book or author now, that sent me down the rabbit hole of falling in love with writing poetry over prose and the rest is history.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

A lot of the poems in Finality of the Heart are based on real experiences I had (obviously sometimes dramatized) and stages of my own development spiritually and romantically. Given my longtime fascination with love poetry and matters of faith and spirituality, I wanted to sort of immortalize those experiences and chronicle at least some parts of my journey in a beautiful way. That said, the character “Ella” isn’t really a real person, but sort of an amalgamation of a few women I’ve been involved with (or not). I think a collection of my love poetry was always inevitable, but certainly turned out in a way I didn’t expect, which is kind of cool in a way, feels more authentic, which is something I strive for.

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

Humans are social creatures, which is kind of cliche, but true, and the desire to be in relationship with someone is powerful for many. So there’s two big takeaways from this book I hope is conveyed clearly enough and they kind of depend on where any given reader is at in life. Firstly, if you have that kind of love in your life, cherish it, nurture it. That vocation in life is such a blessing and should never be taken for granted, even when it’s easy to do sometimes. 

If you don’t, then that’s okay, genuinely. A lot of people put an astronomical emphasis on “finding someone” and settling down, having kids, American Dream-type stuff, but there’s more to life than that and not having that lifestyle doesn’t make you any less of a person. I’m not saying any given person won’t ever find the relationship that maybe they really, really want, but in the meantime there’s so many beautiful things you can do for yourself and for the world. If things work out, awesome, but if they don’t, you’re still awesome and no one can take that away from you. 

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been fascinated with poetry about love and spirituality and in much younger days, it was pretty much exclusively all I wrote about. Granted in those days, it was all awful, but the more I wrote, the better I got, so I guess it paid off somewhere along the way. As to why that is, it’s hard to say. It might be because that was the sort of art that inspired and really spoke to me (The Highwayman by Alfred Noyes is to this day my favorite poem of all time) or my Catholic upbringing that drew me closer and closer to a more truthful (in my estimation) relationship with God or some kind of deep-seated attachment issue that psychologically manifests itself in my wanting to find comfort and belonging in the affections of others or maybe some combination of all those things. 

Regardless, as a writer, I follow the inspiration as it leads me and it often leads me back to romance and spirituality, so whether it’s innate to me or picked up somewhere, I try to work in those genres in a way that’s genuine, skillful, and as innovative as I can.

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

I’ll be honest, I don’t like social media much, so my strategy is to use the one(s) I like and are convenient and hope the readership follows. Which is awful advice if you want to build a following, but helpful if social media stresses you out. Specifically, I use Instagram and Facebook, with the former being actually pretty useful in my opinion. I’ve heard TikTok is currently the way to go for poetry though and I’m sure I’ll jump on that before long. 

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

My biggest advice to aspiring or new authors would be to keep honing your own style and follow your dream your way. Every poet and writer has a way they like to tell stories, themes they like to write about, and experiences they want to be immortalized and that’s valid. Don’t try to be what someone else wants you to be (even if it’s someone you respect) and don’t just try to be an imitation of someone else. Be you and it’ll pay off in your writing. 

That said, don’t use that as an excuse to be lazy or lackluster. Always strive to better your craft and write in a way that’s better and more beautiful than before, but in a way that works for you. Think of being a writer like an RPG character. You are the “class” you are with the stats for it and as you level up, you’ll gain new abilities and skills, but always in pursuit of being the best of what your character can do, what only you can do. I hope that analogy makes sense, maybe I’m just a nerd lol.

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

I have a vague idea for another poetry collection, but much like with the last one, the way life took me led to a totally different realization than originally intended, so who knows what the future holds lol. I started my own publishing company/label (Willheart Publishing) earlier this year though, so I want to take this next season of my life to try to build it and help other emerging authors, particularly local poets and writers here in Kansas City, and their books find a home and success. 

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About the Author

James W. A. was born and raised in the Tampa Bay area in Florida and now happily lives just outside Kansas City, Missouri. After graduating from the University of South Florida, St. Petersburg’s Honors College, he published his first book, In the Library, in 2015 and his second, the award-winning poetry collection Desolation and Epiphany, in 2023. 

Poetry from James W. A. has also been featured in the literary magazines Neptune, Nectar,and The Secret Society of Poetry and he has showcased and facilitated workshops locally through KC Poetic Underground. With his newest collection, Finality of the Heart, James W. A. capitalizes on his long-time love for romantic poetry and penchant for dramatic melancholy to share a meaningful tale of duality he hopes will last through the ages.

https://thejameswa.com/

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/finality-of-the-heart-james-w-a/1147699460?ean=9798218700492

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Interview with Author Alex Brent

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

I’ve worked as a technical writer in IT, but honestly, there has always been a whole universe inside my head — thoughts, ideas, contemplations, tricky questions that still have no clear answers, and even problems humanity keeps wrestling with.

As a kid, I tried writing little stories. Sometimes I’d watch a TV series that inspired me so much, I just had to write my own version. But to be honest, I’m not great at writing fictional stories. My imagination is rich, but my plots never quite come together.

What I do have, though, is a very analytical mind. My real talent lies in looking at things from unique angles most people wouldn’t think of and wrapping those ideas in a fresh, non-standard format of storytelling. I also love finding solutions to problems (something I do daily in my analyst job).

That’s why I gravitate toward writing about life-related problems people struggle to solve, as well as big, hard-to-answer questions. The topics I choose are sometimes spicy, sometimes controversial, often emotional, and yes — sometimes they invite judgment or even hate from others. But I’m learning not to be afraid to speak up. And in fact, that’s what my first book (“The Shadow of Wealth”) is about.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

I wrote Shadow of Wealth by combining Jungian shadow work with millionaire mindset principles, because money mindset is one of those evergreen topics. Everyone needs money, and there should be no shame in admitting it.

But here’s the thing: I always hated most books in this genre. Too many of them talk about “magical ways to step into abundance,” with the core message being, “Just believe, and it will happen!”

The problem is, “Believe” isn’t a command you can simply follow. And it’s incredibly hard to believe you can be wealthy when your reality is screaming the opposite.

Sure, people get inspired by the idea of manifesting wealth through positive thinking. But years pass, and most of them stay exactly where they started. The only thing that changes is that their thoughts aren’t as positive anymore, and their faith in “abundance” is fading.

I analyzed ALL the bestseller books about money mindset and noticed that none of them were using shadow work as a tool to shift mindset and improve finances. I’ve personally used shadow work to transform many areas of my life — especially my financial situation — and the results are incredible if you approach it with curiosity and the courage to face what you’re not ready to admit about yourself.

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

The main message I want readers to understand is this: no matter how hard you believe, manifest, or visualize, you won’t move into action unless you remove the inner resistance holding you back. Shadow work is one of the most effective ways to do this.

Inner resistance is like having your hands tied. You can’t untangle it with vision boards or positive affirmations, because it’s built from old traumas, fears, and painful emotions most of us don’t even realize we carry.

Another takeaway I want for readers is clarity on how to actually move forward with building wealth. In my book, the strict Shadow character doesn’t just help uncover emotions and insights — it also pushes readers to think about their next steps. Along the way, I’ve included practical guidance based on millionaire wisdom I’ve studied from many sources.

So instead of just saying, “Now you know you have a fear of failure, go deal with it,” the book frames it more like: “Here’s what millionaires do to succeed. Here’s what’s stopping you from doing the same. And here’s what you can actually do to change that and succeed too.”

By the end, the big question — “What do I actually need to do to build wealth right now?” — becomes a lot clearer.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

It comes down to my willingness to solve problems for others in a way only I can — by offering perspectives and approaches that not many people have tried. I love suggesting alternative points of view that can shift the way someone thinks about their struggles.

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

Oh, I wish someone had asked me that earlier!

You see, while working in IT, I never really had time to grow my social media presence. My days were filled with talking to customers, writing documentation, traveling for business trips, and helping build products.

Even now, I’m still engaged in those activities. But recently, I finally started an Instagram account: @shadowwork_money. Right now, it’s centered around my book, but eventually, I plan to branch out and share more personalized content on a variety of topics. I have so many ideas, and I can’t wait to bring them to life. It’s going to be an interesting journey.

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

First, I’d say: enjoy the creative writing process. There’s nothing like watching something truly unique come to life from your imagination.

Second… study marketing. Being creative is one thing, but selling your work is a whole different story. Honestly, I was shocked at how many so-called marketers out there are actually scammers, ready to empty your pockets with promises of hundreds or thousands of sales. My painful experience cost me almost $6,000 (a story I’ll share in detail soon), and it almost made me want to give up on writing altogether.

Because of that, marketing has become both my obsession and my playground. My advice: beware of fake promises, because scammers are very convincing these days.

Right now, I’m actually writing a series of LinkedIn articles about marketing techniques that are genuinely useful for authors who want to sell more books. If you’re looking for knowledge or support, come join me there!

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

Oh my, absolutely! New books are definitely on the horizon.

I already have a few topics waiting for their turn: infidelity, parenthood, the things we believe in, and even the genetic lottery. Each of these requires deep research before I start writing, but my notebooks are already bursting with ideas.

I truly hope to meet you again on the pages of my future books. And more than anything, I hope my stories don’t just resonate with you — I hope they spark useful revelations, provoke deep thoughts, and inspire lasting positive change in your life.

READ NOW!

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About the Author

My name is Alex.

By day, I work in IT, but beyond my job, I have a deep passion for Jungian psychology and writing. I love expressing my thoughts and sharing powerful insights – and nothing lights me up more than hearing how those ideas have helped others grow or shift something in their lives.

I’m especially interested in the topic of wealth. And I’ll be honest – I feel no shame about it. Wanting more, desiring abundance, and striving to live your best life is a good thing. (Even if many of us were taught to feel guilty about it.)

At one point in my journey, I realized I was on a meaningful path toward building real wealth. That’s when I felt I had something valuable to share—something honest and hard-earned about how wealth is actually created.

But just to be clear: it hasn’t come from any magic trick or overnight success. It’s been the old-fashioned way – through years of working, creating, investing, and selling. It’s taken over 15 years, and the journey is still unfolding.

And honestly?

I believe it could have happened much faster if I had met my Shadow earlier.

Once I experienced the power of shadow work firsthand, I couldn’t keep it to myself. My creative side wouldn’t let me. I felt this undeniable urge to share what I had learned—in my own way, in my own voice.

https://shadow-of-wealth.com/