Tag: blog interview

Interview with Author Zakary Kerr

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

I joined the Marine Corps at 17, but I always wanted to create and share stories. This was initially by way of video games, but as time went on and I began approaching 30, I realized that making my own game studio is unlikely for me. Still wanting to share stories and coming around to teaching, my wife actually suggested that I write and publish my ideas as books! I began looking high and low for how to structure a story, writing habits and advice, and of course information on publishing. I started in fiction, which remains unpublished, but shifted my focus to educational non-fiction as a start.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

A Practical Guide to Spanish was inspired by three things. First, my love of languages. Spanish is the fifth foreign language that I’ve taken seriously and I’d like to think that, by now, I have something of a process down. Second, is how I enjoy teaching. The more I learned, the more people came to me for advice. After noticing a series of FAQs I got and how I was able to help those around me, I figured getting it all into one place might be helpful. Third, frankly, is my personal aversion to publishing my fiction. In this genre, it’s fact-based, tried and true, where fiction is much more personal. This route was undeniably easier in more ways than one.

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

What I hope my readers take from A Practical Guide to Spanish is really two things. First, that Spanish is a series of logic and patterns that can be quickly mastered if you have a keen eye for said patterns, chunk the language down to what will directly benefit you, and develop a sense of fluidity with meaning. Second, that this mindset can be applied to any language. Grammar is finite worldwide; things are things and actions are actions, no matter the language. If you understand the “theory” of grammar, learning the “practice” is exponentially easier and even more so when you can notice patterns and similarities.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I started taking educational non-fiction seriously because I love learning and I deeply enjoy teaching. Not only is it an opportunity for me to share what I’ve learned and to help people reach their language goals, but it’s also a form of self-help exercise in my opinion. I believe that many people, at least in the US, believe that learning a language is simply out of reach for them and they couldn’t be more mistaken. There are a series of problems with how we approach language acquisition in the US whether it’s via apps, classes, or courses, ranging from the material of the media to the very mindset that they instill. Over time, I developed a strong sense of wanting to remedy that in whatever way I could which is another reason why I paused my fiction to pursue this genre.

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

While I have a page on Facebook and I’m active on YouTube, I’ve found the most success and engagement on TikTok. Language Haus is the channel on both YouTube and TikTok, where I share my language focused material, habits, and resources. Now that I’m posting on social media, I’m discovering first hand the challenges with it, but I’d never say no to a good learning experience even if that’s all I get from it.

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

Let your ideas run and understand that it’s as hard and expensive as you make it. Whether it’s a daydream that inspires a series or a passion or interest that you want to share, make a basic outline and start writing. The hardest part is starting, but once you do, not only is it extremely rewarding to see your final product online and/or physically, it opens up a world of opportunity. 95% of the writing, editing, and publishing processes can be done by yourself and if you have a decent eye for design, know someone with high attention to detail, and use technology as a tool (not a replacement for the human touch), then cover design, editing, and marketing can also be free or low cost. You are your own worst enemy; a limiting mindset will ruin your book a hundred times before anything else.

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

A Practical Guide to Spanish is the first in what I call the Spanish Master Suite of Language Haus. I’ve also published a language journal and one beginner story book, but I have another Spanish story book, coloring books for kids and adults with vocabulary, and courses in the works for Spanish. This same model is going to be ported into other languages like French, Mandarin, German, and others that I know or can find partners for. I haven’t let go of my fiction though. Over time, I’d like to get back to that since psychological thrillers and historical fiction definitely take up some of my headspace. For now, though, I’m set on Spanish.

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About the Author

Zakary Kerr is the founder of Little House Publishing and the creative force behind Language Haus, a unique educational initiative dedicated to making language learning accessible and enjoyable for adults and children alike. With a passion for linguistic education and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by language learners, Zakary has developed the Language Haus Master Suite, a comprehensive series of educational resources designed to guide learners from beginner to advanced levels.

The first Language Haus Master Suite, focused on Spanish, combines a concise, practical guide, graded readers, children’s books, and engaging multimedia content. Zakary’s approach emphasizes real-world application, cultural understanding, and a structured yet flexible learning process. His materials are crafted to help learners independently achieve fluency in their target language while enjoying the journey.

Zakary continues to expand Language Haus with new language offerings, aiming to foster a global community of enthusiastic language learners.

Interview with Author Patrick R. Carberry 

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

I have always dabbled in creative and technical writing. After 9/11, I joined the FBI to help to keep America safe. As a prior FBI intelligence analyst, entrepreneur, US Army veteran with experience in imaging and Computer Aided Design, I was raised Catholic but became a non-denomination Christian as a teenager.

I have always been curious about the Shroud of Turin. I believe that God wants us to know the truth about its origin. And, I believe he wants us to search for the truth in it. What God has revealed to us about Jesus, salvation, and Gods plan for man, comes from the scriptures. However, there is more to the world we live in and mysteries in the universe that we don’t understand, that the scriptures do not reveal. One of the traits of a good intelligence analyst is curiosity.  The curiosity I had, combined with my FBI and technology experience, helped me research and write the book Traumergy.

What inspired you to write your book?

Good question. As I said previously, Curiosity make a good intelligence analysts and researcher. Well, to start with, I was pondering the wonders of Gods universe and how much science does not know or understand about the universe and the makeup of the neutrinos. I was also reading books on the Shroud of Turin and focusing on the mystery of what formed the image on the Shroud. So, my thought was how was the image formed by some yet unknown scientific explanation about Neutrinos in the universe, that will get others to wonder and read about.

There are many ideas of how the image was formed. 

Researching different forms of energy led me to research NEUTRINOS. They are subatomic particles, similar to electrons. Sometimes, called ghost particles, because they are hard for scientist to detect. Neutrinos travel through matter, undergo a process similar to light traveling through a transparent material. Experiments by scientists have revealed that when neutrinos travel through matter that only a small fraction of the neutrino’s energy is transferred to the material, if any. So, based on this I thought, can neutrinos transfer energy to a fabric during one of the most traumatic events in history? The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

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

There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio,
Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
– Hamlet (1.5.167-8)

What drew you into this particular genre?

I believe that science is trying to ‘catch up’ to Gods truth. I am just trying to get people to realize that there is real truth and its not subjective. Jesus is who he said he was. The Shroud of Turin is one of the many proofs, based on evidence, of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

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

To all the Physic students of Prof. Peter Morley. Do you now believe that Jesus rose from the dead and he confirmed his identity as the Son of God and his work of atonement, redemption, reconciliation, and salvation?


The resurrection was a real, literal, physical raising of Jesus’ body from the dead. It shows that God has the power to raise us from the dead. It guarantees that the bodies of those who believe in Christ will not remain dead but will be resurrected at some God ordained time in the future to eternal life. 

The Shroud depicts this based on the evidence on the burial cloth itself. Should we have faith that the Shroud of Turin is the true burial cloth? That’s up to you. I choose to believe it.” I guess a question, I want the readers to come away with is “What does the image on the Shroud of Turin mean to you?” And, if you believe it’s the burial cloth of Jesus then, I hope you have an answer for the question Jesus asked his disciples, “Who Do You Say I am?” 

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

Don’t give up. Accept disappointments. Getting rejections is just part of the process. Don’t get discouraged. Make perseverance your friend.

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

Of course, Traumergy (Book 1) is focused on the discovery of Traumergy and the primary truth it finds in the resurrection of Christ. 

Traumergy (Book 2), is centered around threats based on the discovery of Traumergy. Knowing the truth of the resurrection of Christ, Professor Peter Morley must now reexamine what is the significance of Jesus’ resurrection and fight against criminal powers who do not want the truth to be revealed? The story continues to interweave the discovery of Traumergy with Peter Morley’s morals and beliefs in the face of conflict and danger.

Traumergy (Book 3) Peter Morley is faced with Servathon founders, joining with or using other negative forces, (e.g., from a secular world, atheism, and religious worldly powers) for revenge. He must use his discovery and his unique skills against the threats and defeat them, with Gods help, the bad guys. Some of the bad guys come to know and accept the truth, convert to Christianity and join forces with Peter Morley. 

Interview with Author Patrick Canning

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

-Years ago, I went to film school, focused mainly on directing. I discovered a passion for screenwriting, which later led to a love of writing in general. When I was around thirty, I figured I’d give a novel a try and haven’t looked back since! 

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

-Mostly the main character, Teddy. I wanted to write a character who is genuine and kind (though not naive), and to then place that character in the seedy and unpredictable world of a private investigator in L.A. I had also wanted to write something that critiqued advertising and disinformation. At that point it was just a matter of swirling everything together into an entertaining narrative.

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

-I hope readers are more patient with people, more aware of disinformation, and less tolerant of letting advertising into their lives unchallenged. 

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

-I love twisty and somewhat weird detective stories that often keep the reader on shaky ground but (mostly) congeal by the end. I feel like detective stories provide a lot of opportunities for playful misdirection, colorful characters, and sneaky foreshadowing, all of which are fun to write.

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

-Teddy! I’d ask him how he maintains the stamina to be open and accepting no matter what’s thrown his way. 

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

-I try to really limit my social media for a lot of reasons, so the only one I use is Instagram. I think it’s pretty well suited to the needs of an author since you can post new covers, text, or videos (I made a few for this book that are pretty fun). 

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

-Try to get all the way through to finished book so you can see every aspect of the process. Also to figure out ways to combat discouragement; there’s no one path to being a writer or artist, but perseverance seems like a must-have, no matter the route 

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

-I’m already deep into the next novel, my first sci-fi story. I’m very, very excited for this one. It’s still coming together, but broadly, it focuses on a utopian-like city, and explores what can be achieved if we’re able to control and use AI to our advantage. Things certainly go wrong, but overall I would say it’s an optimistic look at a possible future. 

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Author Bio: 

PATRICK CANNING is the author of For Your Benefit (2024), Cryptonalia (2021), Hawthorn Woods (2020), The Colonel and the Bee (2018), and Cryptofauna (2018).

His work often blends genres, combining elements of humor, adventure, fantasy, and mystery into stories with imaginative settings, quirky characters, and typos.

Patrick lives in Chicago with his Australian Shepherd, Hank. When he isn’t writing, he enjoys walks on the lakefront, being excited/worrying about AI, and eating his bodyweight in potatoes.

www.patrickcanningbooks.com

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Interview with Author George Veck

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

I got into writing at the same time as acting, mostly so I could write short films to produce. I loved it so much that I moved to Cardiff and studied for a Master’s degree in screenwriting, before adapting my screenplays into books.   

2) What inspired you to write your book?

Belabour is inspired by the atrocities of domestic abuse, how it seems to be everywhere you turn. Until 2015, when new laws were introduced in the UK criminalizing controlling and coercive behaviour, the vast majority of proprietors got away with it, even when reported. This book you could say is anger spilling over having witnessed this repeatedly happen, while the victim’s lives sometimes never recover.

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

Hopefully, current proprietors of domestic abuse take a long hard look in the mirror and see the horror they inflict from a victim’s side. If it helps victims, former or present, process their trauma in any way, then that’d be great too.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I’ve always appreciated books and films that take pride in portraying realism. Domestic drama is as relatable as it gets.  

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

X has been helpful, as has Instagram and Reddit at times. Goodreads stands out. 

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

The most obvious tip is to write every day, even if it’s for just half an hour. But mainly try and enjoy every step, celebrate ALL of your wins and landmarks along the way, and don’t let anyone take the joy that made you start away.                                                                                                                                        

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

I have a few books in the planning stage. My next release will likely be a comedy-drama called A Sanction A Day: an anthology charting a desperate British town’s struggles with unemployment and homelessness.

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About the Author

Born in Hastings but raised in North Wales, George mostly writes gritty crime fiction set in Wales.

His inspiration partly derives from political greed, and the plights of those who suffer as a result; whether that’s from mental health issues our criminally underfunded health system won’t treat, housing shortages, domestic abuse, or living in crippling poverty without hope.

As of 2024 George has published six books. Dark domestic thriller Belabour is his latest.

Interview with Author Dante Terese 

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

I was fortunate to have good parents who introduced us to books as soon as we could see and took us to libraries often making sure that we understood the importance of libraries, the good books I read inspired me.  I have always enjoyed creative writing. My friends encouraged me to “take the plunge” and release my books.

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What inspired you to write your book?

There were a lot of factors. I had friends that I would visit on a military base where I got to experience the comradery and sense of community there.  My father was a research scientist so I met some of his colleagues and heard tales of competition in the research field.  I had many ideas of my own which when combined together became the “brain soup” I needed to start “The Base – Book 1.”

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

I hope the readers will question much more of what surrounds us.  The things I wrote about in the book are not completely factual, but are becoming more and more probable.  I would also hope that the readers choose not to participate in economies that enslave people.  We do have a lot of power when we speak by not contributing our money to destructive forces.

What drew you into this particular genre?

I liked challenging the reader and I was doubly challenged with the research for the book.  I really enjoyed the detective work necessary to make the story as factually accurate as possible.  I find it interesting now how many research races are on now especially with AI.  It keeps me inspired and interested in our future.

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

Venus kept me up at night, especially as I was writing the sequel.  I was looking up the difference between a psychopath and a sociopath and trying to understand people who were lacking in a human connection so much so that money always came first.  I think if I met Venus, I would want to listen to her more than talk to her.  I would want to study her, and figure out what made her tick.

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

Facebook has been good to me.  The audience has been more responsive when I have made posts.  I am thankful for the people I have met there.

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

Read and write a lot.  Both of these things will help your hungry brain and your writing muscles.

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

The sequel to “The Base – Book 1” has been written and we have a very ambitious book cover photo shoot scheduled.  I was able to get several very interesting artifacts and a few actors for the occasion, as I type this I am surrounded by props.  I am also exploring ways that I can get “The Base” made into a film or series. It is a lofty goal, but I believe it can be worth it.  I am also writing another book which is very different but very challenging to the readers – and author alike.

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About the Author

Dante Terese is a dynamic new voice in fiction, blending deep themes with compelling narratives in her work. Her debut novel, Sex, Death, & Diane, celebrates the courage of those who dare to think independently and speak their truths, exploring the quiet power within each of us. 

Her recent science fiction release, The Base, takes readers into the high-stakes world of military research, where ethical dilemmas and espionage intertwine in a suspenseful tale of innovation and integrity. 

Interview with Author Julie Cropp Gareleck 

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

I am a CEO, Author, and Entrepreneur, well-respected leader in business communities that extends from the US, to Canada, and the United Kingdom.  In 25 years, I’ve consulted with more than 1000 companies, including startups, midsize, and Fortune 1000 companies, to build sustainable, revenue generating strategies. In 2009, I founded Junction Creative, an award-winning strategic marketing agency, combining the intellectual capital of a business consulting firm with the creative execution of an advertising agency.  As the author of Dare to Become, From the Corner Booth to the Corner Office, I share the right blend of personal anecdotes and professional advice makes it a valuable read for those looking to gain insights into the entrepreneurial journey and the importance of resilience in achieving success. 

Writing has always been a passion of mine. I’ve kept a personal journal from the time I was a teenager until now.  Writing has provided me with an outlet to reflect on my journey, whether documenting my gratitude or working through difficult situations.

I’ve aspired to be an author since I was a child, and at 45 years of age, I dared to become one.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

After reaching 13 years in business, I felt the immense weight of the decisions I faced every day to keep moving the business forward.  After reaching the milestones I had set for the business, I realized that I wasn’t sure what was next.

I sifted through my journals, revisiting my teenage years, 20s, and 30s. As I poured through the pages, I realized just how far I’d come.   The lessons I had learned, the challenges I’d overcome, and the dreams realized motivated me to write Dare to Become, From the Corner Booth to the Corner Office.

It was looking back that I found my way forward and the words to write this book.

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

Within each chapter, I leave the reader with important details regarding how to start a business, fund a business, overcome challenges, manage a multi-generational workforce, develop a management style, and many more insights on what it takes to be successful in business.  I also wanted to inspire others to keep moving forward and find comfort in knowing that while our journeys to success might look different, we are all experiencing similar challenges and triumphs along the way.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

Anyone who knows me would agree that I love to tell great stories. Dare to Become, From the Corner Booth to the Corner Office is just that, a prescriptive bio, full of insights and stories that detail the journey from being a waitress to building a successful business.  It felt natural to write in this style.

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

I utilize LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook to communicate with my readership.

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

Writing a book has been one of my personal and professional goals. I initially thought that writing the book would be the most difficult part.  It turns out the writing was the easiest part of this process.  For others, starting the book might be the biggest challenge.

I would encourage any new author to be patient with the process.  Start with an outline and let the framework of the book take shape.  And when you hit a writer’s block, take a break from the keyboard.   Don’t rush the process.

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

If I only had a crystal ball! The future is looking bright.  I have two other book outlines that I am working on as I have more stories to share.  I will also continue to consult with companies, business owners, and entrepreneurs, whether inspiring change or being a catalyst for success.

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About the Author

Julie is a CEO, Author, and entrepreneur.  Julie is a respected and trusted leader in business communities that extend from the Northeast (Philadelphia, New York City, and D.C.) to the Southeast (including the Greater Atlanta region and Charleston, South Carolina.) and that includes CEOs and entrepreneurs of small to midsize businesses as well as the Fortune 1000. In her 25 years career, she has consulted with more than 1000 companies to build sustainable, revenue generating strategies. Her first book Dare to Become, From the Corner Booth to the Corner Office, hit shelves Worldwide on September 1 and details her journey working for her parents’ restaurant to building a successful agency. 

Julie Cropp Gareleck

CEO | Author | Entrepreneur

Website: www.juliecroppgareleck.com

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

Read My Book: Dare to Become

Listen to My Podcast: Aspire to Be

Interview with Author Nancy Ejike-Offor 

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

I’m Nancy Ejike-Offor, an author who writes both children’s books and books on life issues. My writing journey began with a desire to connect with others through stories that inspire, educate, and offer comfort. As a mother, I was first drawn to writing children’s books to teach my own children important life lessons and Christian values in a way they could easily understand. Over time, I realized that many of the themes I explored in my children’s books, such as resilience, kindness, and healing, were also relevant to adults facing life’s challenges. This realization led me to expand my writing to include books that address deeper life issues, like grief and personal growth. My goal is to create stories that resonate with readers of all ages, helping them navigate both the joys and difficulties of life.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

As both a children’s book author and a life issues book author, my inspiration for writing “Healing Hearts: Overcoming Grief and Loss” stemmed from a deep understanding of how grief affects people of all ages. Having experienced loss myself, I felt a strong need to address this universal experience in a way that could bring comfort and hope to both children and adults.

For children, I wanted to create a resource that would help them navigate the confusing and often overwhelming emotions that come with losing someone they love. My experience in writing my Six children’s story books, such as “Learning to Forgive,” “The Dove of Peace (Noah’s Story),” and “Learn to Share”, and others, allowed me to approach this sensitive topic with care, using language and imagery that young readers could relate to and find soothing. These Children’s Story books are available on Amazon, where I’ve been fortunate to reach a wide audience.

At the same time, as a life issues author, I recognized the importance of providing guidance and support to adults who are also struggling with grief. I wanted to offer insights and practical advice that could help them process their emotions and find a path to healing. My goal was to create a book that serves as a companion for anyone going through grief, offering reassurance that they are not alone and that, with time, healing is possible.

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

The key message I hope readers take away from “Healing Hearts: Overcoming Grief and Loss” is that healing is a journey that requires time, support, and love. I want both children and adults to understand that it’s okay to feel sad and that there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Through this book, I aim to provide reassurance that, with time, the pain of loss can be softened, and that it’s possible to find peace and happiness again. My goal is to offer a gentle reminder that they are not alone in their grief.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

As both a children’s book author and a life issues book author, I’ve always been drawn to stories that have the power to touch hearts and change lives. My passion for writing began with a desire to teach and inspire young minds, which naturally led me to the genre of children’s literature. Writing for children allows me to introduce important values, such as kindness, faith, and resilience, in a way that is both engaging and accessible. Seeing how these stories positively impact young readers motivated me to explore even deeper themes.

As I continued my writing journey, I realized that many of the challenges children face, such as dealing with loss, understanding emotions, and finding hope are also relevant to adults. This realization inspired me to expand my work into the life issues genre, where I could address these topics from a more mature perspective. Writing about grief, healing, and personal growth has allowed me to connect with readers on a deeper level, offering support and guidance during difficult times.

What truly drew me into both genres is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, whether they are children or adults. I believe that stories have the power to heal, teach, and transform, and I am committed to creating works that resonate with readers of all ages.

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

Facebook has been incredibly helpful in developing my readership. My page, https://www.facebook.com/Booksbynancy1/,’ serves as a central place where I can share updates about my books, including both my children’s books and those focused on life issues like “Healing Hearts: Overcoming Grief and Loss.” Facebook has allowed me to connect directly with parents, educators, and readers, building a supportive community around my work.

In addition to Facebook, my TikTok channel, ‘@daughterofmosthigh,’ and my YouTube channel, ‘ https://youtube.com/@inner-powerinspirations?si=qAvQMNfdly3NgKgQ,’ have also been crucial in reaching a broader audience. TikTok’s dynamic format has enabled me to engage with readers in a more interactive way, sharing insights about my writing process, book snippets, and personal reflections on the topics I cover. Meanwhile, on YouTube, I create content that aligns with my mission of inspiring and uplifting others, which complements the themes in my books. Together, these platforms have been instrumental in helping me connect with readers and share my stories with a wider audience.

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

For aspiring authors, especially those writing for children, my advice is to write with empathy and from the heart. Understand the emotions of your readers, whether they are children or adults, and approach your storytelling with a sense of care and compassion. It’s important to stay true to your voice and to remember that your stories have the power to make a lasting impact. Be patient with the process, seek out constructive feedback, and always believe in the message you’re trying to convey.

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

I’m excited about the future and the new projects I’m currently working on. In addition to continuing my work on children’s books that teach valuable life lessons, I’m also focused on expanding my collection of life issues books. One of the upcoming books I’m particularly excited about is titled “The Art of Letting Go.” This book will go deep into the important process of moving beyond past hurts and embracing the freedom that comes with forgiveness and personal growth.

Alongside “The Art of Letting Go,” I’m also exploring new themes for both children and adults, always aiming to create stories that inspire, comfort, and empower my readers. Whether it’s helping children navigate their emotions or guiding adults through life’s challenges, my goal is to continue making a meaningful difference through my writing.

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About the Author

Nancy Ejike-Offor is a dedicated author known for her inspiring children’s books and insightful works on life issues. With a passion for storytelling that began as a way to connect with her own children, Nancy has authored a series of children’s books that teach important values and lessons through engaging, faith-based narratives. Her works, including “The Beautiful Beginning,” “The Dove of Peace (Noah’s Story),” and “The Story of Faith and Promise (Abraham’s Story),” have touched the hearts of young readers and their families.

In addition to her children’s literature, Nancy also writes books that address deeper life challenges. Her work, “Healing Hearts: Overcoming Grief and Loss,” offers guidance and comfort to those navigating the difficult emotions associated with loss. She continues to explore themes of personal growth and resilience in her upcoming book, “The Art of Letting Go.”

Nancy is active on social media, where she connects with her readers through her Facebook page, ‘Booksbynancy,’ her TikTok channel, ‘@daughterofmosthigh,’ and her YouTube channel, ‘Inner-powerinspiration.’ Through these platforms, she shares insights, offers support, and spreads positivity to a growing community of followers. Nancy’s writing is driven by her belief in the power of stories to inspire, heal, and transform lives.

Interview with Author Ahlam Faris

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

It’s funny, I never knew I had the talent for writing until one day my literature teacher came running to the class looking for that student who chose to write a story instead of a topic in the exam. And she was like, “You wrote this?” I was like, “Yes!” and wondered if I was in trouble. She was just appalled and said, “Why aren’t you participating in writing contests?” And I answered, “I didn’t know these existed.”

I love writing, I have always found myself imagining new worlds, writing dialogues, and thinking really hard about how the stories in my head can progress. I guess it just comes naturally to me.

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 2. What inspired you to write your book?

I always dreamed of writing a book one day, and it happened to be this one. As for the inspiration, I was reading about Zarqa’a Al-Yamama and wanted to create a character inspired by her. If you don’t know Zarqa’a, she is a real historical figure from pre-Islamic history who had superb eyesight and could see a tiny white hair in a bowl full of laban. She could see invaders from as far as a day and a night’s walk and would warn her people to prepare for a fight. There are many stories about her; some say she had help from Djinn, while others believe she gathered gossip and news from traveling merchants and knew when invaders targeting other villages would come for them. One day, the invaders thought of hiding behind shrubs that they carried and started advancing slowly. When she saw the trees advancing, she told her people, they thought she had gone crazy. Unfortunately, the trick worked, and the invaders killed Zarqa’a. The first thing they did with her body was gouge her eyes out and let the crows eat them. She was my baseline for Mina. However, the character of Mina evolved and developed her own characteristics, background, and story.

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

Mina struggles with restraints. She has to watch herself—to not be sad, to not be angry, to not give in to negative emotions, or the thing within her will start to wiggle itself, and she knows from experience that she can hurt people. But you can’t restrain yourself too much; you will eventually explode. My message is: we all have restraints that we should cater to, but we shouldn’t let them prevent us from being who we want to be. It’s like a game of balance. As Hugo from Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame says “Give her some slack, then reel her in, give her some slack then reel her in.” honestly this is one of my favourite quotes, and kind of a universal advice. You can see this in the world we live in, it’s either total freedom or too much oppression. We have to find the middle ground somehow between the two.

 4. What drew you into this particular genre?

I love fantasy, it’s as simple as that.

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

Hmm, this is a difficult question! I probably know my characters more than they do themselves. However, I would love to spend time with them over a cup of Quahwa and enjoy it without saying anything.

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

Since my book hasn’t been published yet, the only place I could see my early readers reactions is through Goodreads. It’s good to see who enjoyed that early ARC, what their thoughts about it and if it wasn’t really the flop, I think it is sometimes. I would love to see random people pop up on My DMs one day and to hear about their thoughts about the book if they liked it. That would be a treat. Like receiving fan mails, I guess. 

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

This might be repetitive, but just write. As a busy person myself, I rarely have quiet time to write anything, so most of my writing is done through my phone. It’s messy, full of grammatical and spelling mistakes, but I’m laying down the bricks for the story. When I have time, I will sit in front of my computer and start editing. You don’t need to force yourself. Write when inspiration hits you.

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

I’m currently working on Book 2 of Rings and Chains, but I also started on a new WIP during the waiting time between the editing process of Book 1 and getting it ready for publication. I couldn’t make myself start Book 2 because I was afraid people might not enjoy the first book in the first place. So, I had to distract myself with something totally different. Now that the early reviews are coming in, mostly positive ones, I found the push I needed to start working on Rings and Chains Book 2. I work on my other WIP when I’m in a writing slump or whenever I get an idea for a scene or something while lying late in bed thinking about the story. While I’m really in love with that WIP and would love to share it with the world as soon as possible, it will have to wait until Rings and Chains series is done. Which may take years. But by that time. I will have a lot of material to work with, hopefully. 

You can find me on social media:

Instagram: @yumiche.withbooks

Twitter: @TheAhlamFaris 

Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Ahlam-Faris/author/B0D956RZ1B?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

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About the Author

I’m Ahlam Faris, a self-published Indie Author who have a passion for all things fantasy, I’ve been writing for years, but I’ve only recently found the courage to submit my work to the world, I really hope you enjoy reading “Rings and chains: Daughter of Light and dark.

https://ahlamfaris.com

https://a.co/aWLYEb0

Interview with Author Colette Bos

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

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

I have been writing for quite a while, but more in technical writing, documentation, and editing through my website, www.writeforhire.com. However, it has only been in the past couple of years that I have felt confident enough to try writing a book. 

I enjoy reading about the latest in science, technology, and science fiction, and with my degree in geography, I have always been interested in climate. So, I guess when searching for a theme to write a book, I chose Global Warming, which I felt combined all these interests.  

Interestingly, it was only later that I discovered a genre based on these interests called Cli-Fi, which is short for (climate fiction). When I think back, I now realize that I needed this final boost back then to get me moving on at least an outline for the global warming fellowship idea for my book, Bon Echo and The Competition.

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What inspired you to write your book?

I spent my early childhood in Kaladar, Ontario, Canada, where my parents owned the Kaladar Hotel. Our hotel was close to Bon Echo Provincial Park, so many of our guests who had travelled far to visit the park would stay overnight while sightseeing. Bon Echo is famous for its spectacular azure lake reflecting sunlight onto its golden cliffs at sunset.

Somehow, I must have stored a vision of this inspiring spectacle of nature as a child, forgotten its location, and then held it in my memory as a powerful childhood mystical experience. I have meditated on this calming vision throughout my life but could not recall where I acquired it. So, later in life, I decided to explore places with my husband from my childhood, including Kaladar and Mactier, a railroad town in Muskoka, where we lived before moving to Kaladar. This adventure quest was sad and yet very gratifying at the same time. It was heartbreaking to see the ruins of our old home in Mactier and, even more so, the broken-down remains of the hotel. The Ministry of Transportation demolished it in 2018, so I was grateful to see it one last time before it was gone forever.

Due to rainy weather, we had to return home before reaching Bon Echo Park. However, happy childhood memories flooded my mind as I told my husband about my childhood in Kaladar, visiting Bon Echo Park and feeding deer before crossing the park gates in my family’s car. Eventually, I followed up with online research and found my beautiful Bon Echo vision on my laptop in pictures of the shimmering sunlight reflecting on Mazinaw Rock. I traced this major event in my childhood to the source of my love for nature and why I felt drawn to geography at university. You can read the full story of my quest to find the inspiration for my Bon Echo series through this link: Northern Lights Publications

Bon Echo reflects the inspiration for a fictional setting in my Bon Echo series and on the adventures of Maven and her friends. Hopefully, it will inspire you to visit the real Bon Echo Park, as Bon Echo Bay is a fictional creation found within the pages of my book Bon Echo and The Competition.

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

When I was approximately the age of five, I visited Bon Echo Park in Ontario with my family. I recall looking at the fantastic golden glow of the sun reflecting off the Mazinaw escarpment rock face. I must have been so awestruck by its beauty that I experienced a mystical connection of love emanating from the environment’s sheer beauty and maybe even Mother Nature herself. Of course, I’ll never know for sure what I experienced, but it was such a powerful experience that I carried that image and feeling of love throughout my entire life.

When I decided to try to write a book, the theme of fighting global warming seemed like the right choice for me. It felt like an opportunity to honour Mother Nature for all the love and peace I received from her over the years. 

The most powerful message of my book is our need to protect and conserve our planet through fellowship because the earth is the only home that we can all say we genuinely share and need to save.

What drew you into this particular genre?

I have always been a big fan of all sorts of science fiction, from Star Wars, Star Trek, Dune, and all the TV science fiction series. So, I was pretty sure that if I were ever to write a book, science fiction/fantasy would be my first choice.

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

That’s an easy one! I would ask Maven a particular question related to her journey in discovering her passion in life. I would have asked her if her search would have had a time limit. Writing became my passion, but I didn’t realize it until much later. I would encourage Maven to never give up on her quest to find what ignites her love because it is such a powerful and energizing force in life, making it worth pursuing.

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

I haven’t experimented too much with social media, but Facebook has been the most helpful in developing my readership.

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

When I first started to write, I realized how much of a learning curve I had to tackle before even beginning to put pen to paper. I was a complete novice and seriously didn’t have a clue where to start. I felt it was best to research and learn the basics through the many excellent books and on the many varied writing subjects. So, if you are not well versed in grammar, terms, usages, and writing methodologies, I would start there. And of course, read, read, read, because we all build on the shoulders of others, and because nothing is new under the sun, I promise you will find so much inspiration in all your reading adventures. Also, if you are prepared to take on this journey, you will learn much about yourself as a writer and even start cultivating your unique writing voice.

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

It has been a long trek and quite an adventure of the mind writing my first book, which has energized me even further to start outlining the second book in my Bon Echo science fiction series. The working title for this second book is Bon Echo and The Crystal Library, and I am coming up with all sorts of intriguing ideas on living history, artificial intelligence, and possible future climate change directions that may take place within this series. I have an enormous amount of research and notes that need organizing and outlining, which seem to take place in tandem because, as always, “the learning curve” can be its own adventure. I am currently digging in and looking forward to all the stepping stones of the writing process. Make everything an adventure, and you will never be bored, which is one of the true joys of imagination.

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About the Author

Colette is a talented writer and web developer who has turned her passion for science fiction and environmental causes into a new creative writing direction. With a background in Geography, she has taken a more focused approach to exploring ecological themes in her work. Her debut book, “Bon Echo and The Competition,” the first in the Bon Echo Science Fiction series, is a captivating blend of science fiction and romance. Set in a world where environmental issues are at the forefront, Colette weaves a beautiful story of adventure and love that will captivate readers until the end. With her remarkable talent for storytelling, Colette is sure to leave a lasting impression on the science fiction genre.

Social Media Links:

Author website:  Northern Lights Publications

Facebook:  (1) Facebook

Instagram:  Colette Bos (@bos_colette) • Instagram photos and videos

Newsletter:  Northern Lights Publications

Amazon Link to My Book:  https://mybook.to/BonEchoandTheCompetition