Category: Author Spotlight

Posted in Author Spotlight, Blog Tour, Mysteries

Author Spotlight of L. A. Chandlar, Author of Silver Gun, First in the Art Deco mystery series

Posted on by Debbie

I’m pleased to have author L. A. (Laurie) Chandlar  from New York here to speak about her writing and first traditional release, the first of her Art Deco mystery series, The Silver Gun, which is on blog tour with Escape with Dollycas Into a Good Book.

Welcome, Laurie. Please tell us how long you’ve been published and what titles and/or series you write.

The Silver Gun is my first traditionally published novel that debuted August 29th, 2017. This is the first in the Art Deco Mystery Series by Kensington Publishing, Corporation.  I also published my own two books for different talks that I perform. One is short stories in the midst of a novel, about the backstories of the people behind beloved holiday traditions, called The Christmas Journalist. Think Mitch Albom meets Sophie Kinsella. I wrote it as a leaving piece for one of my all-time favorite talks on this topic for a group of women at the United Nations. It’s so much fun. The other is Brass in my Fight to Keep Creativity Alive series for workshops and life-coaching sessions that I do for companies and individuals who want to get a better grasp on creativity and the psychology of creativity both personally and in the workplace.

Congratulations on your first traditionally-published book. I’m currently querying agents for a new cozy mystery series and hope to be traditionally published one day myself. I also have cozies, a new mystery, and short stories published by Solstice Publishing. Your self-published non-fiction sounds very interesting as well.

Tell us a little bit about your books — if you write a series, any upcoming releases or your current work-in-progress. If you have an upcoming release, please specify the release date.

The Art Deco Mystery Series is set in the late 1930s in New York City and features the firecracker mayor, Fiorello LaGuardia and his aide and protagonist of the series, Lane Sanders. It’s a fresh take on the innovation, humor, and gumption of the Thirties in spite of the Depression. The second in the series, The Gold Pawn, releases September 25th.

Wonderful! As a New Yorker myself (Long Island), I think that setting and time period make for an interesting series.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

I am an avid learner and I love to experience new things. So my goals as a writer, are to keep growing and writing, and to get to several conferences where I can learn and meet readers and other writers. I have a contract for three books in the Art Deco Series, and it is my goal to lengthen that to at least five books. I am also shopping The Christmas Journalist to major publishers and I am writing a YA novel that picks up with a young woman who is introduced at the end of The Silver Gun. It would be a lot of fun to intermingle two genres where the two series weave in and out of each other.

What great ideas. I wish you luck with all of that.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract?  Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

I think readers who are compelled by adventure, humor, and who enjoy different levels where they discover new things. What I mean is, I feature a different piece of art in each novel of The Art Deco Series. The piece of art comes alongside a character and helps them navigate the mystery. I think art does that in real life, and I love the levels that it offers the reader. In the first book a now-famous artist who was not famous then, is featured in a journal that Lane finds. In the second book, both Lane AND a villain come across a chilling classic novel that everyone knows but no one has read. And in the third –this is so cool—Orson Welles put together the first all-black theater cast and performed MacBeth – set in Haiti instead of Scotland and featured a haunting jungle landcape. This was Voodoo MacBeth and was wildly popular, touring the country, this mirrors another character’s journey and helps uncover the ultimate enemy in the story. I also love to show inspiring and new parts of history that aren’t told in the history books. Mayor LaGuardia was hilarious, and I have a lot of real history in my books. It’s so refreshing to see the human and very funny aspects of history. In fact, the more sensational a chapter seems in my books, it’s most likely it was actual reality. My author notes are a lot of fun to read.

I’m sure they are. I think your series will appeal to a wide range of mystery readers especially art enthusiasts and New Yorkers.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

Keep going! It’s a tough road and boy, do we all have to deal with rejection and the awful nature of comparing ourselves to others. My advice is to remember the heart of what you do. No one else can tell your story. Self-awareness will help you grow and learn, but never confuse that with self-doubt. Self-doubt always, always tears down. Dismiss it right away and just keep going. Remember your heart and your joy of why you do what you do.

I can totally relate to that. I’ve had my share of rejections. It’s not easy to keep up the momentum and fall victim to the self doubt you mention, but when readers praise you in reviews or in person, it’s a great feeling. And, like you say, the writing comes from the heart.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

There were a lot. The biggest was just finding the time and energy to write when I was having trouble just surviving. I got the idea to write a novel right when I moved to New York City. I had a new job, a new city, no friends or support, and then we decided to start a family. So sure. Why not write a novel, too? I found it impossible for a long time. But I started with getting a babysitter for just two hours a week. I’d sit my butt down in the closest Starbucks and just write. It started from there and I had so much fun! My work compounded and starting small, but consistently, grew my appetite for more. I also had hard time comparing how other mystery writers begin with an outline. Apparently, I’m horrible at that. So I just started writing scenes and that got me off the ground.

Finding time to write is an issue for most authors who usually also work full-time and have families. I fit mine in very early in the morning. I also create a bare minimum of an outline. I prefer to write as a I go scene by scene.

Do you belong to any writing groups? Which ones?

I’m part of Sisters in Crime and Mystery Writers of America.

I’m also a Sisters in Crime member and belong to a few other groups including International Thriller Writers, Long Island Authors Group, and the Cat Writers Association.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

I love watching Food Network and The Great British Bake Off, cooking, drinking wine, and going to museums and parks in New York City.

Nice interests. I love the City museums but don’t get the opportunity to visit them as often as I’d like.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

What I love the most, is creating stories that help people see something in a new light, and perhaps help them enjoy life themselves just a little bit more. I love characters who enjoy the magic of their everyday life. I also adore meeting and encouraging people, so I try to go to several conferences a year.

What I love the least is that I still find that comparing can be really hard. I can get daunted by what other authors are doing or their successes. I usually have to give myself the same pep-talk I gave above. Like every day. There will always be people who are younger, faster, more successful… but that doesn’t make one iota of difference in that only you can tell your story. When I remember that, it always makes things easier and I enjoy it all even more.

Those are good points for all authors to keep in mind.

What do you like about writing cozy mysteries?

Cozies allow for the reader to settle into a book. I love, love, love characters whom you come to know and enjoy as “friends.” And Thrillers tend to be more about the plot, where I love a good plot with good pacing, but I adore good characters. Cozies let us really sit in that pocket.

That’s so true. Characters are the main draws for cozies. I’ve even created a character Facebook group for my Cobble Cove mystery characters where each character hosts the group on a monthly basis to share excerpts from their scenes and to interact with group members in discussions.

 Can you share a short excerpt from your latest title or upcoming release?

Sure! This is a favorite scene that I often read when I’m at a signing. The Thirties were so much more alive than I ever learned in History class. There was so much going on with women rising to prominent positions in the work force, great humor, innovation, amazing art, and cocktails to boot. My protagonist demonstrates that spirit. She’s artful, intelligent, and funny. And she’s always got an idea to get her and her sleuthing partner, Roarke –an investigative reporter—out of a pickle. In this scene, they have gotten a lead that they hope will reveal another piece to the puzzle of the threat against the mayor and the city.

EXCERPT

 “Roarke, I think we rushed in without thinking this through,” I said in a whisper as we drew near the slimy building in the Meatpacking District, which, by the way, carried all the odors, images, and carnage that the name implied. I’d never been over here before, and I slipped my hand into Roarke’s as we slunk down a close alley toward our meeting place he’d set in advance with his informant.

The window that we had come close to was high, but Roarke would just about be able to see in if he stood on tiptoe. It was open; maybe the informant had cracked it so we could overhear what was going on inside. All I could hear at first were muffled voices. Then Roarke’s hand tightened on mine as we heard the determined, clipped steps of someone’s shoes making their way across a tile floor, closer and closer to the window we were directly under.

Roarke whispered closely, “My informant figures we’ll be quite safe, since who would bother to look out the window?”

Suddenly, we heard something shift above us. Someone was bothering. Right this second. We ducked down in the narrow alley. I huddled up to the brick wall, willing myself to be invisible like you do in a bad dream. I held my breath as someone wrenched the window further open. Then came the reassuring sound of someone’s steps walking away.

We both slowly looked up. Low voices drifted out. I could only make out every third or fourth word. Then the voices raised, and so did the hairs on my neck as I heard my name.

“What do you mean Lane knows? Knows what?” said a very angry, high-pitched male voice that I knew in an instant was Danny’s. The guy who tried to kill me.

“Well, I’m not sure, I’m just the messenger. I’m just giving you the note. Sh—” said a nasally, fearful voice that must have been the informant’s. But something or someone had cut off what he was going to say next. Was he about to say she or someone’s name that began with S-H?

Then a couple of steps sounded, and a third voice addressed Danny in a low murmur. Just then, Roarke spied something in the window, a small piece of white paper. He slowly raised his hand and took down the paper, using careful, delicate movements. He brought it down as the voice was still murmuring. He opened the paper so both of us could read it. Written on it in sloppy writing was one word: RUN.

Roarke and I locked eyes at the same moment we heard loud footsteps decidedly coming toward our window. In one fluid movement, I turned around and we ran down the alley toward the light. Puddles splashed, things skittered in front of me. I ran like hell. Before we reached the end of the alley, a gun fired.

We were rocked in our shoes for one horrifying second. We realized it came from inside the room and we weren’t hit; we kept running. We swerved around the corner to the right. There were workers all over the place, but we stood out like an ink stain on a white shirt. With me in my bright yellow dress and Roarke in his navy pinstriped suit with white shoes, neither of us was exactly blending in.

We bounded up the street, trying to stay close to other buildings. Just as we thought we might be clear, we saw them: two guys who had gangster written all over them. One was Danny. As I turned my head to look back at him, I saw him smile that awful smirk, and the sun shone off the deep shine of his black, slicked-back hair. They started chasing after us.

“Roarke, run!” I yelled.

I had an idea. I ran ahead and took a left going north toward the docks on the west side, Roarke running right after me. I never ran so fast in my life. My sides hurt, my legs burned. But when you’re literally running for your life, those are very minor inconveniences.

I heard the clack of our pursuers’ shoes on the pavement, urging me to keep going. Neither of them yelled; they just ran relentlessly on after us. Come on, come on, where are you? Ah, there! When I saw my target, I got a final burst of speed. I heard a funny grunt of a laugh as Roarke figured out my plan.

Just ahead was a bevy of at least twenty navy sailors making their way off their ship in port, heading out for some fun for the evening. I ran right toward the biggest guy, waved enthusiastically, and launched myself right into his surprised but receptive arms. I looked back at my shocked pursuers, turned to the stunned sailor, and planted a gigantic kiss right on his lips. He responded with vigor, and it had the reaction from his mates that I’d hoped: They all cheered. I could hear Roarke laughing behind me.

The sailor let me go and set me down carefully. I brushed my hair back, and I said as loudly as I could, “Ah, well. Welcome to New York!” They all cheered again, and we all walked happily toward Broadway. Roarke and I were careful to stay in the middle of the group of laughing, shoving, playful sailors.

About twenty feet away, I spotted Danny and his partner. They had steered clear of the sailors. He was not smiling now. Danny touched his hat in a sort of salute to my efforts, but then slowly raised his hand in a small gesture of a gun, shooting at me. He softly blew the imaginary smoke off his fingers; an unimaginative gesture, but frightening nonetheless. Then he readjusted his hat, did an about-face, and walked away.

Excellent excerpt.

Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know about you or your books?

Definitely take a quick moment to read the Author Notes and the Group Discussion Questions. I reveal what is real history and what is fiction, and then in the Questions I usually have other tidbits about the story and interesting things I’ve used or pulled into the story. In other words, they aren’t typical discussion questions. Also, I have made a few YouTube walking tours that are Behind the Scenes quickie tours of The Silver Gun. They show you things like Lane’s neighborhood, Central Park then and now, and even Blackwell’s Island (now Roosevelt Island).

I’ll definitely look for those when I read the book. I’m a librarian as well as an author and order the mystery and fiction books for my library. Although a few in our system have your book, ours doesn’t, so I plan to put an order in for it. I’m sure it will appeal to our patrons.

Please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. and include some book cover graphics and author photos if possible.

For behind the scenes virtual tours of The Silver Gun: 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOc8aw0RmT-MTKuCGKJ7dOw/videos

Here is a quick link to all my social media:  http://www.lachandlar.com/social

Blog:  http://www.lachandlar.com/blog/

Thank you so much, Laurie. It’s been a pleasure chatting with you, and best wishes with your blog tour, series, and other projects you’re planning for the future.

For those following Laurie’s blog tour, you can enter her rafflecopter for a prize here: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/02887792696/?widget_template=56d5f80dbc544fb30fda66f0

Posted in Author Spotlight, Blog Tour, Cozy Mystery

Author Spotlight of Laura Childs for Plum Tea Crazy Blog Tour

Posted on by Debbie

I’m pleased to have Gerry Schmidt writing as bestselling author Laura Childs of Minneapolis here to speak about her writing and new release, Plum Tea Crazy that is on blog tour with Escape with Dollycas Into a Good Book.

Gerry Schmitt, who writes under the pen name Laura Childs is now adding two more series that are harder-edged Wednesday February 26, 2014 in Plymouth. (Pioneer Press: Jean Pieri)

Welcome, Gerry. Please tell us how long you’ve been published and what titles and/or series you’ve been published with and if you have any self-published titles?

I’ve been published with Berkley Prime Crime (PRH) for 17 years. I write three different cozy mystery series – the Tea Shop Mysteries, Scrapbooking Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. I’ve written forty-two books in all and most have been on the New York Times bestseller list as well as the Publisher’s Weekly and USA Today bestsellers lists.

Very impressive. Can you please tell us about your series and any upcoming releases you have planned?

All of my books are cozy mysteries, with three hardcover books due out in 2018. Plum Tea Crazy (Tea Shop) published on March 6, Glitter Bomb (Scrapbook) will be out in October, and Eggs on Ice will be out in December.

Plum Tea Crazy Book Description:

As tea shop owner Theodosia is viewing Charleston Harbor’s Gaslights and Galleons Parade from the widow’s walk of a nearby mansion, a local banker tumbles over the narrow railing and plunges to his death. But this tragic accident turns sinister when Theodosia discovers that the victim was actually shot with a crossbow. From New York Times bestselling author Laura Childs, Plum Tea Crazy delivers a gripping, realistic murder, a raft of quirky suspects, and a good dose of humor and tea lore. With pacing that moves like a thriller, it’s one of the reasons Book Riot named the Tea Shop Mysteries to their list of “25 of the All Time Best Cozy Mystery Series.”

Sounds like another bestseller to me.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

My goal as a cozy author is to always amuse, entertain, and create a calm, almost uplifting experience, for my reader. I also love to intersperse tidbits about antiques, fashion, and tea lore, as well as recipes.

You seem to have done a wonderful job meeting your goal. I’m sure readers love all the little extras that you include.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract?  Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

My readers tend to be female, although I receive many emails from male fans. And because my books are of the cozy genre – a kinder, gentler mystery – I like to say they are g-rated. Good for girls to grandmas.

As a cozy author myself, I find that a perfect description for the genre.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

My advice to would-be authors is two-fold. One, pay attention to the genres that are selling today. Publishers tend to be copy cats, so if domestic thrillers are red hot, that’s probably what they’re looking to buy. And two, realize that this is a business. If and when you manage to get published, the work has only just begun. You’re the one who has to go out there and market your book. I always look at my work as a 60/40 proposition – sixty percent writing, forty percent promotion.

That’s quite interesting. It’s so true that many new writers don’t realize that getting published is only the beginning of the work they need to do. Since I’m not yet published with a large publisher, I find that I spend a higher percentage of my time on marketing than writing, but I hope to balance that out one day soon.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

Luckily, no challenges in getting published. Mystery great Mary Higgins Clark was gracious enough to help me find an agent and a publisher!

Wow! Maybe I should ask her to help me. (only kidding) but it definitely is difficult finding an agent these days, and it’s so true that networking with other authors is beneficial.

Do you belong to any writing groups? Which ones?

I don’t belong to writing groups because I believe in keeping all my ideas and concepts to myself. In my former life, I was CEO of a major ad agency for twenty years. Never in that time did I ever share my ideas/concepts with my competitors!

A good practice.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

When I’m not writing I try to spend as much time as I can relaxing at a beach house in Carmel, CA and going to rock concerts (Sixties and Seventies groups).

Nice.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

The best thing about being an author is walking into a bookstore and seeing forty-plus titles on the shelves. My least favorite thing is the fairly solitary lifestyle.

Seeing all those copies of your books must be a thrill. I hope to experience that one day myself. Although being an author can be solitary, it’s nice that the Internet allows us to be in touch with fellow authors and our readers worldwide.

What do you like about writing cozy mysteries?

I love cozy mysteries because I’ve been able to stretch the genre by quite a bit. My cozies have become a kind of hybrid – what I now call a “thrillzy.” This means my cozies are still based on traditional cozy values and guidelines (amateur sleuth, no gratuitous violence, etc.) but I’ve imbued them with the action and pace of a thriller. That means scenes that include car chases, bodies tumbling in the surf, drones shooting down hot air balloons, rogue killers, alligators, haunted cemeteries, the supernatural, and even a food truck chase.

That’s an interesting comment. For my first cozy, A Stone’s Throw, I considered it romantic suspense and had no intention of creating a series out of it. Then readers began reviewing it as a cozy, and I liked the characters so much that I decided to continue their story. Three books later, I’m still writing about the folks in Cobble Cove.

I’ve seen how cozies can be “stretched” as you said. I even believe my standalone mystery, Reason to Die, that’s coming out soon might be considered what you termed a “thrillzy.”

Can you share a short excerpt from your latest title or upcoming release?

Excerpt from Plum Tea Crazy, my newest Tea Shop Mystery:

     “Someone’s fallen!” a woman screamed.

     Theodosia spun quickly and peered over the edge of the roof. Off to her right, twirling head over tea kettle, a man hurtled down the sloped, slate roof of Timothy’s house as if he were zipping down a child’s slide.

     “Help!” the falling man cried as he flailed and fought for hand holds. His pleading, anguished note pierced the darkness. Pierced Theodosia’s heart as well.

     “Dear Lord!” Theodosia cried. She hoped the poor man would find something, anything, to break his fall.

     “This is dreadful,” Drayton said with a sharp intake of breath.

     They watched helplessly as the man flopped and tumbled, then landed in a deep V that formed one of the eaves in the expansive roof. His arms flew out, beating wildly, as his fingers scrabbled desperately to find something to grasp. But he was moving too fast to completely arrest his fall and immediately catapulted down another few feet, heading for a decorative balcony. The man floundered again, making a grab for a balustrade to halt his terrible descent. His fingers grazed it by a mere inch. Then his body torqued grotesquely as he banged his forehead against the top of a stone window pediment and a thin mist sprayed out in slow motion. Blood.

Now I see what you mean by thrillzy. That’s an excellent example.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

Find me at www.laurachilds.com or on Facebook at Laura Childs Author

BIO

Laura Childs is the USA Today and New York Times bestselling author of the Scrapbooking Mysteries, Tea Shop Mysteries, and Cackleberry Club Mysteries. Recently, Book Riot named the Tea Shop Mysteries to their list of “25 of the All Time Best Cozy Mystery Series.” In her previous life Laura was CEO of her own marketing firm, authored several screenplays, and produced a reality TV show. She is married to Dr. Bob, a professor of Chinese art history, enjoys travel, and has two Chinese Shar-Pei dogs.

Thank you. It was truly a pleasure speaking with you. Best wishes on your new release and blog tour.

Posted in Author Spotlight, Blog Tour, Cozy Mystery

Author Spotlight of Tonya Kappes, author of Six Feet Under, a Kenni Lowry Mystery

Posted on by Debbie

I’m pleased to have author Tonya Kappes from Crestview Hills, Kentucky here to speak about her writing and new release, Six Feet Under, which is on blog tour with Escape with Dollycas into a Good Book.

Welcome, Tonya. Please tell us how long you’ve been published and what titles and/or series you write.

I’ve been published for nine years. My publishers include Henery Press, HarperCollins, William Morrow, and Crooked Lane. I’ve self published over twenty novels.

That sounds like quite a productive career.

Tell us a little bit about your books — if you write a series, any upcoming releases or your current work-in-progress.

I’m a cozy mystery author. All of my books are set in the south in the great Bluegrass state of Kentucky. They are funny with globs of southern charm. Six Feet Under is the fourth book in a ten book deal with Henery Press.

SIX FEET UNDER

A paranormal cozy mystery

Kenni Lowry Mystery Series

Book 4

Too many cooks in the kitchen spoil the broth. And let me tell you, this broth is in trouble. Get ready for a Southern showdown.

The residents of Cottonwood, Kentucky are sent into a tizzy when the Culinary Channel comes to town to film an episode of Southern Home Cookin’ with celebrity chef Frank Von Lee.

Especially Sheriff Kenni Lowry.

Her mama’s award-winning chicken pot pie is what brought Frank to town, and they don’t make hair in the South bigger than her mama’s ego after the news.

When Frank Von Lee is found dead from food poisoning and the most likely culprit is Mama’s chicken pot pie, Kenni’s poppa, the former sheriff, comes back from the Great Beyond to assist in the investigation.

But nothing’s prepared Kenni for such a personal tie to a case, and she finds herself pushing the limits of the laws she’s sworn to protect.

This book’s so delicious it’ll make your mouth water and leave you hankerin’ for more.

Sounds like a great book.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

My only goal as a writer is to write the next book. I stay on a written plan to accomplish my daily writing word count that helps me get there. My WHY as a writer is much different than my goal. My WHY is to write a fun book that helps the reader escape from their daily life.

Excellent goals, and it looks like you’ve been achieving them.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract?  Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

I attract readers who love cozy mystery with some fun and quirky characters.

Yes, quirky characters are a main draw for cozy readers. I like to think the residents of my Cobble Cove fit that bill, too.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

Write every day.

Good advice. I believe that writing is like anything else you wish to master, you have to keep at it to make it a habit.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

I first published with self publishing and when it was just not considered cool to do. I just blocked out all the noise and continued down my side of the street and I’ve not done so bad for myself.

I self-published my first book and then became published with Indie publishers. I’m still trying to break into larger publishers with an agent, but I’m very happy with what I’ve accomplished so far and am hopeful I will reach my ultimate goals. In the meantime, I’m learning a lot and am very thankful for the support of other authors and my publisher.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

I have four boys in college…no time for hobbies! I’m all family all the time.

Wow! I only have a teenage daughter. I have no idea how you do it with four kids.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

I love it all. I love writing and getting into my character’s heads and I love meeting with readers at my annual Two Dames on a Mystery Train event where I rent a different train somewhere in the USA.

The mystery train event sounds awesome. I admire authors like you who are able to think outside the box to find such creative ways to interact with readers.

What do you like about writing cozy mysteries?

I like how the setting and the secondary characters are just as important as the mystery.

I agree. Setting and characters are very important in cozies. I love creating characters and seeing them grow from book to book in my series.

Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know about you or your books?

If they have a hankerin’ to find out more, just check out my website. You can sign up for my newsletter there and also connect with me on social media.

Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes:  https://www.facebook.com/authortonyakappes

Kappes Krew Street Team
https://www.facebook.com/groups/208579765929709/

Webpage
tonyakappes.com

Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4423580.Tonya_Kappes

Twitter 
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11

Pinterest

Thank you so much, Tonya, and best wishes on your new release and blog tour.

 

 

Posted in Author Spotlight, Blog Tour, Cozy Mystery

Author Spotlight of Caroline Fardig, Author of Southern Discomfort, First of the Southern B & B Series

Posted on by Debbie

 

I’m pleased to have author Caroline Fardig from Indiana here to speak about her writing and new release, the first of her Southern B & B cozy mystery series, Southern Discomfort,  which is on blog tour with Escape with Dollycas Into a Good Book.

Welcome, Caroline. Please tell us how long you’ve been published and what titles and/or series you write.

I’ve been traditionally published since 2016 with Random House.

Java Jive series

Southern B&B series

I’ve been self-published since 2013.

The Lizzie Hart Mysteries series

Ellie Matthews Novels

That’s great. Tell us a little bit about your books and your new cozy series.

My series are all mysteries, but all have their own personalities.  The Lizzie Hart series and the Java Jive series are fun and modern, with sassy heroines and plenty of romance—not your mama’s cozy mysteries.  The Southern B&B series is more traditionally cozy.  My Ellie Matthews series is vastly different from anything I’ve ever written before.  The books in that series are forensic police procedurals—dark and thrilling with a definite edge.

Southern Discomfort, the first book in the Southern B&B series was just released.

Wonderful. Best wishes with that. Can you describe your goals as a writer? What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

I’d like to continue to keep writing as my full-time job and produce two to four books a year.  My next project will be a psychological suspense novel, which will be a new genre for me.  Right now I’m researching for that story and working on my outline.

Very nice. I’ve written a psychological thriller myself, Sea Scope, that I’m hoping to publish soon.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract?  Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

Mystery readers in general would be interested in my books, but I hope to reach a wider audience with my upcoming psychological suspense novel.

It’s always a good idea to reach a different audience. From my experience as a librarian, I know that there are many readers who enjoy several genres.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

Never give up.  Write daily, and always strive to make your work the best it can be.  Take constructive criticism from knowledgeable people and use it to make your writing better.

Excellent advice.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

First and foremost, I worried if my writing was good enough.  I didn’t even want to tell my husband that I’d written a book!  But as I let a few people I trusted read it and give me feedback, I realized I could do it and worked to make that dream a reality.  On the business side of things, it was difficult at the beginning as an unknown author to get enough traction and interest to get my name out there and to get an agent.

I think most beginning authors and even those who have published such as myself struggle with both those issues, feeling confident enough in their writing and landing an agent. I’m currently querying agents for my new cozy series.

Do you belong to any writing groups? Which ones?

Yes, I’m a member of the Midwest Writers Guild and Evansville Local Authors.

I think writing groups are great for authors for support as well as constructive criticism.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

I love to play guitar, sing, write songs, cook, travel, and watch movies.

Those are a nice variety of interests.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

I like creating characters most of all.  I like marketing the least.  My toughest challenge is trying to figure out what marketing approach works best to get my books noticed in the sea of books that are out in the world.

I think most authors would agree with that. Marketing is so time consuming, and it’s hard to pinpoint what works and what doesn’t. It also takes you away from the main work of creating.

What do you like about writing cozy mysteries?

I like creating characters with quirky traits and not having to be too serious.

Yes, I also like creating interesting characters and having fun with them.

Can you share a short excerpt from your new release?

“Do you realize that you put the lavender-colored sheets on the bed in the red room and the peach sheets in the blue room?” my sister Delilah asked.

I slapped my forehead. “Cheese and crackers. I’m sorry, D. I’ll fix it.”

She came over and plopped down on her stomach on my bed, facing me. “It’s totally normal for you to be off your game. It may take a long time to bounce back.”

“I know, but . . . I’ve actually got other things on my mind. Sort of.”

Cocking her head to the side, she asked, “What could possibly be bigger than finding a dead body?”

“Finding a way to get Drew out of jail.”

She snorted. “Short of a professionally planned jailbreak, I don’t think you’ve got much of a chance.”

I’d expected that kind of response out of my sister. She was the more pessimistic of the two of us, plus, as she’d alluded to before, she didn’t seem convinced of Drew’s innocence. But she always listened and offered great advice—and I could use some advice right about now. Granted, she might call me crazy and several other not-so-nice things for taking on this kind of dangerous endeavor, which was why I’d kept it from her until now. That aside, I knew she’d be in my corner once she finally came around.

I replied, “Actually, there’s another way I can help Drew, but I doubt you’re going to like it.”

“Let’s hear it.”

“Okay. Here goes. Yesterday Drew and I came up with a list of people who might have had a reason to want to kill Jason.”

“Okay . . . that doesn’t sound so bad. What are you going to do with the list? Give it to the police?”

“I tried that. No luck. Rufus wasn’t in a listening mood.”

She shrugged. “Oh. Well, I guess you tried . . .”

“I’m going to do more than that, and this is the part I think you won’t like. I know in my heart that Drew didn’t kill Jason. But since his money is all tied up in the restaurant and they’ve had to close the place, he has no way of making bail, or more importantly, no way of hiring a private investigator to look more deeply into his case.”

“So what can you do? Loan him some money you don’t have?”

“No, I can use this list, talk to people around town, and try to find the police a better suspect than Drew.”

Her face screwed up in confusion. “Are you saying you want to sleuth around like some kind of adult Nancy Drew or something?”

I stuck my tongue out at her. “It sounds stupid when you say it like that.”

“Quinn, I’m not belittling your attempt to help your friend. If you want to know the truth, I think it sounds kind of fun, in a dangerous way. But . . . what in the world do you know about investigating?”

“Nothing. In fact, I’m pretty terrible at it.” Ouch. That hurt to admit out loud. “Yesterday I managed to get some information out of a restaurant critic that Jason had fought with, but it was ugly. Today I tried to talk to Valerie, but that went horribly wrong. Then I tried to follow her, and she caught me.”

“Ooh. That couldn’t have ended well. That woman is a viper.”

“You’re telling me. I’ve decided to call that one a learning experience and work a little smarter from now on.”

“Right. And how do you plan to work smarter?”

I threw my hands in the air. “That’s what I have to figure out. And fast.”

She thought for a moment. “If you don’t mind me saying so, you can be a bit . . . gullible. Naïve. If you do decide to go through with this, when you go out and speak with people, you need to not readily believe everything you hear. It stands to reason that people would have things to hide in this particular situation.”

She wasn’t wrong, but it wasn’t something I liked to hear. Straightening in my chair, I said, “I can think more critically. Be more skeptical if I need to be.”

I could see her mulling this over, and just when I thought she wasn’t going to pull her big sister routine, her expression became strained. “Quinn . . . are you sure this is something you should take on? I mean, if Drew didn’t kill Jason, then someone else did. And that someone is still out there running loose. I don’t know if it’s a good idea to insert yourself into the situation. You could get hurt.”

“Drew could get hurt in jail. Who knows what could happen in there?”

“I appreciate that, and I think you’re an amazing friend for even considering taking this on. But you can’t forget about the danger aspect of it. At the end of the day, if it’s someone’s neck on the line, I’d rather it be his than yours.”

There was one more thing I needed to tell her that would eclipse everything else for her. I blew out a breath. “If I don’t figure out who really killed Jason, my neck could be on the line as well. There’s a possibility that the police could find some reason to charge me, too, if they decide Drew and I were in cahoots.”

“What?” she exploded, jumping off the bed so she could pace around the room. “How? Why would they think you’re in cahoots?”

“Because I found the body. And also because of my supposedly flimsy reason to be at a closed restaurant after hours, Detective Flynn told Drew that he thought either Drew and I were in on the murder together, or that I’m covering for him. It may not be just Drew that we need to worry about. Detective Flynn might not have any evidence on me, and I don’t even know that Rufus shares his hunch, but it’s still a valid issue to worry about.”

Delilah’s jaw dropped, and she stopped pacing. “How long have you known about this?”

“Since yesterday morning.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” she cried.

I looked down. “I didn’t want to worry you.”

Coming over to kneel in front of me, she took my hands. “Quinn, we’re sisters. We’re supposed to weather the hard stuff together.”

“I know. But . . .”

“No buts. I will not stand for my baby sister being accused of any wrongdoing, especially a freaking murder! We’re going to clear your name once and for all, and if we happen to clear Drew’s in the process, all the better.”

I stared at her. “What do you mean ‘we’? What are you saying?”

“I’m saying I’m going to help you find your suspect. I always have your back, and this is no different. You need a cynical sidekick who can think like a delinquent and talk her way out of a messy situation. I’m the perfect woman for the job. Besides, I could use a little excitement in my life. Don’t tell Papa Sal, but the monotony of B&B management has been getting to me lately.”

Tears sprang to my eyes as I broke into a smile. “You mean it? We’re going to do this together?”

She smiled back at me. “The Bellandini sisters are on the case!”

Great excerpt!

Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know about you or your books?

I write original songs to go along with all of my Java Jive books, since the main characters are singer-songwriters.  The sheet music can be found at the end of each book, and my recordings of those songs can be found at http://www.carolinefardig.com/music/.

What a great idea.

Please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. and include some book cover graphics and author photos if possible.

Website/blog:  www.carolinefardig.com

Facebook:  facebook.com/carolinefardigbooks

Twitter:  @carolinefardig

Goodreads:  bit.ly/carolinefardig-goodreads

Thanks so much for the interview, Caroline. It was great meeting you, and I wish you the best on your new series and blog tour.

 

Posted in Author Spotlight, Blog Tour, Cozy Mystery, New Releases

Author Spotlight of Lena Gregory, author of Clairvoyant and Present Dancer: A Bay Island Psychic Mystery

Posted on by Debbie

I’m pleased to have author Lena Gregory, a fellow Long Islander, here again to speak about her writing and new release, Clairvoyant and Present Danger, which is on blog tour with Escape with Dollycas Into a Good Book. I chatted with Lena previously about Scone Cold Killer.

Hi, Lena. Nice to have you here again. For those who may have missed your first appearance here and those who need a refresher, can you please tell us what titles and/or series have you published and with which publisher?

My first cozy mystery, Death at First Sight released on November 1, 2016 with Berkley Publishing. I currently write the Bay Island Psychic Mysteries series (Death at First Sight, Occult and Battery & Clairvoyant and Present Danger) with Berkley Publishing and the All-Day Breakfast Café Mysteries series (Scone Cold Killer, Murder Made to Order & Cold Brew Killing) with Lyrical Press.

Quite a big list. Tell us a little bit about those books and your new release.

My most recent book, Clairvoyant and Present Danger, Bay Island Psychic Mysteries book three, is due to release today, February 6, 2018 and follows the story of Cass Donovan and her small psychic shop on the boardwalk.

Scone Cold Killer, the first book in the All-Day Breakfast Café Mysteries series, released on January 23, 2018 and is about Gia Morelli, a woman from New York City who flees her home to move to Boggy Creek, Florida and open a café. Unfortunately, trouble follows.

Congratulations on your new releases.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

My biggest goal is to keep writing cozies! I hope to continue the series’ I am currently writing as well as start two new series’, one paranormal and one contemporary. As a cozy reader, which do you prefer?

Commenting for myself, I like contemporaries but paranormals can be interesting, too. My Cobble Cove series is a contemporary cozy. I hope readers will share their preferences.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract?  Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

I think people who enjoy cozy mysteries would be most interested in my books, people who enjoy reading about small towns and trying to solve the mystery along with the sleuth. I also think people who enjoy psychics, ghosts, and a touch of the paranormal will enjoy my Bay Island Psychic Mysteries series.

Both sound very interesting.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

I would say, “Never give up!” It’s definitely not an easy road, and there is plenty of rejection along the way, but achieving your dream is so worth it.

I agree completely and hope to have a large publisher myself one day.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

I think figuring out what genre to write was my biggest hurdle. I originally wrote romance, and while I do enjoy some romance in my cozies, I’m definitely not a romance writer. It took me a little while to figure out what I’d be good at writing and enjoy. After romance, I tried fantasy and children’s books. I do have stories published in all of those genres, but it was tough. It wasn’t until I started writing cozies that I really found my niche.

I feel like cozies are my niche, too, although I have also written other genres.

Do you belong to any writing groups? Which ones?

Unfortunately, not right now. I’d love to join some, but right now I just don’t have time. Between working during the day, freelance editing, taking care of the house, kids, dogs…I’m lucky I find time to write.

I hear you. I have a 13-year old daughter and a cat and work full-time as a librarian.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

I love spending time with family. I’m a huge superhero fan, and I love watching superhero movies with my husband and kids. I also enjoy taking long walks with my dogs through the nearby nature preserve.

I love walking, too, although I don’t have a dog. I look forward to the spring when I can do more of it. I think it helps clear your head and inspires your writing.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

I enjoy everything about being an author. I think the thing I enjoy most, though, is celebrating my releases with facebook parties. I love getting to know my readers and other authors and have made some great friends that way. My least favorite part is writing the first rough draft. I definitely struggle with that. My toughest challenge is finding the discipline to sit down and write every day.

Yes, reaching readers is a wonderful part of being an author, and finding time to write as well as market your book is definitely the hardest challenge in my opinion.

What do you like about writing cozy mysteries?

I really enjoy the recurring characters. Each time I sit down to write, it’s like visiting with old friends.

I feel that way, too. I’d love to sit in the Cobble Cove library with Alicia or have tea and muffins at the inn with Dora and Mac or peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with John. Cozy characters really grow on you whether you read or write about them.

Can you share a short excerpt from your latest title or upcoming release?

This is from Clairvoyant and Present Danger. Bee LOVES Beast, just not when he’s covered in mud and poised to greet him, usually by jumping up on him:

Stephanie was probably still sleeping, but Bee might not have gone to bed yet. Since he worked on his designs all night, he usually didn’t go to bed until seven or eight. Definitely a better option than running into Tank and having to explain why she was so frazzled. She headed for Bee’s house.

He would not be happy to find her on his doorstep, covered in mud, at just past seven in the morning, but what else could she do? She hadn’t grabbed her bag or her cell phone in her hurry to flee the house . . . uh oh. She lifted her foot off the gas and slowed. What was she going to tell him? If he knew a . . . something had spooked her, he’d never agree to come over.

The drive over was not comfortable. The mud had started to dry and was tightening her skin, and the damp clothes were bringing a chill, but it was better than being alone at home. Of course, nothing was stopping the woman from materializing in the car. She started to look at the—hopefully empty—passenger seat, but thought better of it and kept her eyes firmly on the road until she reached Bee’s driveway and parked. What she didn’t know couldn’t hurt her. Probably.

“Come on, Beast.” She hooked the leash to his collar, stepped out of the car, and started toward the door.

Before she even reached the porch, Bee had opened the door and was doubled over laughing, gasping for air.

“Not funny, mister.” She strode toward him.

He bit back the laughter—sort of—when his gaze landed on Beast. His eyes widened, sending his bushy brown eyebrows straight up beneath his bleached, blond bangs. “Oh, no. Stay right there, missy. Don’t you dare come any closer with that animal.”

She kept walking toward him without slowing her pace.

“Did you hear me, Cass? I’m not kidding. You are not coming up here with that dog until he’s had a bath.” He squinted and eyed Beast more closely. “What on earth happened to you two?”

Cass finally stopped. “I need you to come home with me.”

He lifted a brow, and a smirk played at the corner of his mouth. “That is so not happening, honey.”

Cass held the leash in the air, keeping a firm enough grip so that Beast couldn’t escape—unless he really wanted to.

Beast wagged furiously, spraying mud everywhere.

She cocked a hip and propped her free, mud-covered hand on it. “Either you come home with me, or I’ll let him go.”

Bee’s mouth fell open. He snapped it shut and narrowed his eyes, pinning her with a glare. “You wouldn’t dare.”

She loosened her hold, letting the leash slip just a little.

Beast crouched, practically vibrating with the need to escape, barely able to restrain himself.

Wonderful, and you must ask Beast if he would like to chat with my cat character Sneaky on his blog one day.

Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know about you or your books? ?

I enjoy getting to know my readers and can often be found on facebook if you’d like to say hello 😊

That’s great. I’m sure you’ll hear from them.

Please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. and include some book cover graphics and author photos if possible.

Website:  http://www.lenagregory.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/lena.gregory.986

Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/Lena.Gregory.Author/?fref=ts

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/LenaGregory03

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14956514.Lena_Gregory?from_search=true

Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/lenagregoryauth/

 Thank you so much for having me!

Always a pleasure, Lena, and I’m including your blog tour and rafflecopter giveaway below. Best wishes on your new release.

Tour page: https://www.escapewithdollycas.com/great-escapes-virtual-book-tours/books-currently-on-tour/clairvoyant-present-danger-bay-island-psychic-mystery-lena-gregory/

Rafflecopter: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/02887792675/?widget_template=56d5f80dbc544fb30fda66f0

Posted in Author Spotlight, Blog Tour, Cozy Mystery

Author Spotlight of Lena Gregory, author of Scone Cold Killer, an All Day Breakfast Cafe Mystery

Posted on by Debbie

I’m pleased to have author Lena Gregory, a fellow Long Islander, here to speak about her writing and new release, the first of her All Day Breakfast Cafe mystery series, Scone Cold Killer, which is on blog tour with Escape with Dollycas Into a Good Book.

Welcome, Lena. Please tell us how long you’ve been published and what titles and/or series you write.

My first cozy mystery, Death at First Sight, released on November 1, 2016 with Berkley Publishing. I currently write the Bay Island Psychic Mysteries series (Death at First Sight, Occult and Battery & Clairvoyant and Present Danger) with Berkley Publishing and the All-Day Breakfast Café Mysteries series (Scone Cold Killer, Murder Made to Order & Cold Brew Killing) with Lyrical Press.

Very nice. I will have to check those out. I currently write a cozy mystery series myself with Solstice Publishing, a small publisher, and I recently submitted a proposal for the first book of a new cozy series with an agent. I’m also a librarian and order the books for our fiction and mystery collection. Cozy mysteries are quite popular among our patrons.

Tell us a little bit about your books and series.

My newest release, Scone Cold Killer, the first book in the All-Day Breakfast Café Mysteries series, which released on January 23, 2018, is about Gia Morelli, a woman from New York City who flees her home to move to Boggy Creek, Florida and open a café. Unfortunately, trouble follows.

In the Bay Island Psychic Mysteries series, book three, Clairvoyant and Present Danger, is due to release on February 6, 2018 and follows the story of Cass Donovan and her small psychic shop on the boardwalk.

Those both sound very interesting. Congratulations on your two new releases.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

My biggest goal is to keep writing cozies! I hope to continue the series’ I am currently writing as well as starting two new series’.

That’s terrific. Your goals sound quite ambitious. I personally love developing characters and settings for cozies, although I do like to write short stories and standalones of other genres.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract?  Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

I think people who enjoy cozy mysteries would be most interested in my books, people who enjoy reading about small towns and trying to solve the mystery along with the sleuth.

I agree that those are the main draws to cozies. People also like cozies that feature pets and recipes. I like to include cats and dogs in mine, although I’m mainly a cat lover.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

I would say, “Never give up!” It’s definitely not an easy road, and there is plenty of rejection along the way, but achieving your dream is so worth it.

I feel that way exactly. I’m happy with what I’ve accomplished so far with my small publisher, but I’d love to have my books produced in more formats and distributed on a wider scale with a larger publisher.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

I think figuring out what genre to write was my biggest hurdle. I originally wrote romance, and while I do enjoy some romance in my cozies, I’m definitely not a romance writer. It took me a little while to figure out what I’d be good at writing and enjoy. After romance, I tried fantasy and children’s books. I do have stories published in all of those genres, but it was tough. It wasn’t until I started writing cozies that I really found my niche.

It’s funny you should say that, Lena, because that’s similar to my experience. When I published the first book of my series, A Stone’s Throw, I considered it romantic suspense but readers were reviewing it as a cozy. I decided to make it into a series. While I’ve written other genres, I feel my writing fits best with cozies because I feel uncomfortable writing scenes that feature explicit sex or violence and really like to create characters with whom I would enjoy sitting down to tea or chatting over some muffins.

Do you belong to any writing groups? Which ones?

I don’t belong to any right now, but I am hoping to join a couple as soon as I get some free time.

Free time is a rare commodity for writers, isn’t it? I participate in my library’s writing club and belong to several associations and social media groups, but I find it hard to devote so much time to them because I need to have time to write, too.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

I enjoy spending time with my husband and kids, love reading, of course, and I’m a huge superhero fan. I also love dancing, which I taught for many years.

Dancing sounds like a good way to relax and get exercise away from the computer.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

I enjoy everything about being an author. I think the thing I enjoy most, though, is celebrating my releases with facebook parties. I love getting to know my readers and other authors and have made some great friends that way. My least favorite part is writing the first rough draft. I definitely struggle with that. My toughest challenge is finding the discipline to sit down and write every day.

I love Facebook parties, too, and in fact my character cat from my Cobble Cove mysteries is hosting a Valentine’s Day paw-ty in February. Please drop by if you’d like. These events are great to interact with readers, although they’re a lot of work. I have more difficulty editing the second draft than I do writing the first one because I don’t keep extensive outlines.

What do you like about writing cozy mysteries?

Everything! I enjoy plotting the mystery, trying to make it challenging to figure out. I love the recurring characters that become like old friends with each new story and the small communities that feel like home.

I definitely relate to that. Cozy characters grow on you, and it’s fun to see them develop. The settings are also places that are appealing to the senses.

Can you share a short excerpt from your latest title or upcoming release?

Another customer entered.

Since Willow was in the middle of taking an order, Gia turned around and went to seat him. A couple of minutes to cool off might be just what she needed.

“Good morning.” She forced a smile.

“Ma’am.”

The unmistakable New York accent caught her off guard, and she faltered.

“Uh…I mean, um…” She shook her head. She was going to have to get a grip on herself. She couldn’t break out in a cold sweat every time someone from New York walked into her shop. A lot of New Yorkers vacationed in Florida every year, many of them owning homes in both places. “Sorry, I was distracted for a moment. A lot on my mind.” And the tall, muscular stranger from New York just catapulted to the top of the list.

He narrowed his eyes. “No problem.”

“Will anyone be joining you today?”

“Nope. Just me.” After studying her another moment, he smiled, crinkling the corners of his eyes—the darkest green eyes she’d ever seen, their irises surrounded by an even darker ring and framed by thick, black lashes any woman would envy.

“Would you like to sit at the counter, or would you like a table?”

“The counter is fine, thank you.”

She led him to the counter and handed him a menu. “Coffee?”

“Yes, please. Long flight.” He raked a hand through his stylishly disheveled dark hair. “Well, actually, that’s not exactly accurate. The flight wasn’t that long, the delay beforehand was.”

She laughed. “From New York?”

He shot her a charmingly crooked grin. “How’d you guess?”

“Hmm… I can’t imagine what gave it away.” Some of her tension eased. “So, what brings you to Florida?”

“A little business.” He leaned closer and lowered his voice to a husky whisper. “Hopefully, a little pleasure.”

Nice excerpt. Thanks for sharing it.

Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know about you or your books?

I enjoy getting to know my readers and can often be found on facebook if you’d like to say hello 😊

Please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. and include some book cover graphics and author photos if possible.

Website:  http://www.lenagregory.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/lena.gregory.986

Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/Lena.Gregory.Author/?fref=ts

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/LenaGregory03

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14956514.Lena_Gregory?from_search=true

Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/lenagregoryauth/

Thank you so much for having me!

Thank you. It was nice speaking with you, and best wishes on your series and blog tour. I am including your blog tour page and rafflecopter giveaway link below.

https://www.escapewithdollycas.com/great-escapes-virtual-book-tours/books-currently-on-tour/scone-cold-killer-day-breakfast-cafe-mystery-lena-gregory/

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/02887792665/?widget_template=56d5f80dbc544fb30fda66f0

 

Posted in Author Spotlight, Blog Tour, Cozy Mystery

Running Out of Time Blog Tour – Author Spotlight of Suzanne Trauth

Posted on by Debbie

I am pleased to have author Suzanne Trauth of Woodland Park, New Jersey, here to speak about her writing and book, Running Out of Time, which is on blog tour with Escape with Dollycas Into a Good Book.

Suzanne Trauth, Harvard Studio, Montclair, NJ. 06/27/2014 Photo by Steve Hockstein/HarvardStudio.com

Welcome, Susan. Please tell us how long you’ve been published and what titles and/or series you’ve been published with and if you have any self-published titles?

I spent a long career in academic theatre – nonfiction – before I began writing my mystery series so my first books (an acting text and play anthology) were published in the decade before I published my fiction. My Dodie O’Dell mystery series published by Kensington Publishing consists of three books now – SHOW TIME (2016); TIME OUT (2017); RUNNING OUT OF TIME (October, 2017, my most recent release). I have not self-published.

Very nice. Can you please tell us about your series and any upcoming releases you have planned?

RUNNING OUT OF TIME (October, 2017) is my most recent release. Currently I am writing book four in my mystery series – JUST IN TIME – due out September, 2018.

I’m also writing Book 4 in my series, but I’ve been waylaid by writing number one in a new series.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

In the next few years I will publish books 4, 5, 6 in the mystery series: September, 2018; 2019; 2020. Since my contract with Kensington Publishing specifies dates when the books are due, my contract will help me reach my goals to meet the deadlines!

I’m sure that’s helpful but also a bit stressful, I would imagine.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract?  Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

I am hoping to attract anyone who likes a good mystery, especially a cozy mystery – small town life, a strong female sleuth, a healthy dose of humor. My books also feature a community theater and a restaurant – food and plays!

How interesting, great subjects for a cozy mystery series.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

I suppose first of all don’t give up…persist! But also find a great editor who can help you develop the book and give you some submission advice. Finally, search out readers you trust who can offer you an initial, objective assessment of your book.

Good advice.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

I struggled to define my genre. I was straddling two genres before a very savvy and insightful editor set me on the right path: how to write in the mystery genre. I also was challenged – like many writers – by facing rejection until the stars aligned and I was blessed with an editor and then a publisher.

I also had problems with genre. I believed the first book of my series was a romantic suspense novel, but reviewers considered it a cozy mystery, so I took their opinions to heart and went on to create my Cobble Cove cozy mystery series. I have a novella and stories in other genres but they still feature cozy-like themes and characters.

Do you belong to any writing groups? Which ones?

Since I also write plays, I take writing classes in that genre that keep me working on a defined schedule. I belong to a book club, a group of very perceptive readers; I’ve discovered that reading broadly is one of the best things I can do as a writer. I imagine that all of the fiction I read pours words and ideas and structures into my brain! Reading nurtures the writing.

As an avid reader and librarian as well as an author, I agree with that completely.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

When I am not writing, I teach in an acting studio for a small group of performers. I am a celebrant and very much enjoy presiding over weddings in my area. I travel when I can; it’s a great way to absorb material!

Yes, travel allows you many great experiences from which to draw for writing.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

I enjoy the creative, freewheeling fun of first drafts. Letting my imagination go wild! The discipline of revision through multiple drafts is more challenging. Some days I struggle with distractions…email, Facebook…I have to turn technology off! Some days I sit in front of my computer for an hour or so before I can sink into the writing.

I, too, enjoy the creative aspects of putting my ideas on paper and also find revisions more challenging. However, promoting and marketing are my toughest challenges. Even more so is finding the time to do everything.

What do you like about writing cozy mysteries?

In writing the Dodie O’Dell mystery series, I have fun creating the world of a small town – Etonville, NJ – and visiting the same cast of characters with each book. In each book the Etonville Little Theatre is rehearsing a different play so I get to play with each production!

That must be a lot of fun for you. I also like creating the quirky characters of Cobble Cove and seeing them develop from book to book.

Can you share a short excerpt from your latest title or upcoming release?

Sure…

    The temperature was dropping and the wind was picking up. I flipped up the hood of my jacket and stared down the street. It wasn’t late—not even eight o’clock—but the darkness felt as if it was well into the night. I began to retrace my steps up the street. A few yards into the alley I noticed shadows to the right of me. The backyards of houses that faced the street where Sally and I had sat in her car and talked. A few bare trees with snow-laden branches dipped to and fro like dancing skeletons. I hadn’t noticed how eerie this back lane was earlier. I was too busy trying to keep up with Sally. But now, a spooky sensation creeped me out. The only sound, at first, was the scraping of my boots on the slushy gravel, stones and chunks of ice rubbing against each other. Then I could swear I heard an echo of my footsteps. I turned backward and saw nothing; never mind, I told myself, and broke into a light jog. My hairs began to twitch and my heart pounded. Every step I took seemed to be answered with another one, a fraction of a second behind mine.

     I was puffing heavily, cold air painful in my lungs as I increased my speed. I could see the end of the alley just ahead and almost laughed. In my relief I didn’t detect the sheet of black ice in the middle of the lane. I’d missed it trailing Sally, but now I was moving quickly and carelessly. Unknowingly, I placed one foot on the ice and skidded forward, landing face down on the gravel and freezing mud. I could taste the muck on my lips and my left cheek felt raw and sore. My ears were ringing; I knew I wouldn’t be able to hear someone stalking me. I rolled onto my back and faced the night sky, the moon covered in a sheer layer of clouds, and battled to stand up and regain my footing. I gingerly moved to the end of the alley and onto the street. The diner was up ahead on my left, the car wash on my right. I must have looked a fright—two young guys left the diner, poked each other and smirked at me. I ignored them and ran across the street. I fumbled with the door key and collapsed into the front seat, gasping. The street was uninhabited now. The diner had posted a Closed sign in the window. Could it all have been a figment of my overactive imagination? Bill would probably think so…

     I turned the key in the ignition and the engine sputtered as it had done on many occasions in the last few days. But this time as I cranked the motor, it wouldn’t turn over. I pumped the gas pedal and tried again. The Hyundai stubbornly refused to start. My dread returned. I didn’t feel safe in a deadbeat car on a street that was deserted in a town I wasn’t too familiar with. If I had to call for help how was I going to explain my presence here? Meaning, what would I tell Bill if I got caught texting and meeting with Sally? Not to mention how mortified I’d feel with my face in this state. I switched the ignition key to Off. The evening had been a bust and all I had to show for it were a scraped cheek and a split lip that was swelling slightly. I rested my stinging face on the steering wheel and my great aunt Maureen’s words came to mind: Dorothy, you must accept that some days you are the pigeon and some days you are the statue. Right now I swore I could hear wings flapping.

Excellent. I enjoyed that very much. Lots of action and character development.

Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know about you or your books?

Periodically, I run contests on Facebook and Goodreads. Please check them out and enter! Recently, I asked readers for their favorite recipes and received some really delicious and interesting dishes that will be featured in book four: JUST IN TIME.

I also run contests during Facebook events, and I recently sponsored an Amazon giveaway. I also have a Facebook Chat group and newsletter where I feature a contest each month. One of my contests was also for a recipe that was included in my second book.

Please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. and include some book cover graphics and author photos if possible.

You can contact me through Facebook or my website. I’d love to hear from you!

Website: suzannetrauth.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuzanneTrauth/

Thank you. It was nice speaking with you, and best wishes on your series and blog tour. I am including your blog tour page and rafflecopter giveaway link below.

http://www.escapewithdollycas.com/great-escapes-virtual-book-tours/upcoming-great-escapes-book-tours/running-time-dodie-odell-mystery-suzanne-trauth/

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/02887792645/?widget_template=56d5f80dbc544fb30fda66f0

 

Posted in Author Spotlight, Authors, Books, Mysteries

Author Spotlight: Matt Ferraz

Posted on by Debbie

authorspotlightWelcome to the Literary Library Lounge where I interview fellow authors. Today, I am chatting with Matt Ferraz from Brazil 
limitlesslibrarylounge

Thanks for joining me, Matt.  Please take a seat and make yourself comfortable. 

I don’t believe I’ve had any authors from Brazil in my Author Spotlight before. Can you tell me more about your background?

I live in Contagem, an industrial town in central Brazil. Contagem is a nice place but it lacks cultural spots, so I spent a lot of time traveling to Belo Horizonte, the capital of the state, where there are more libraries and theaters.

I have spent the last year living in Buckingham, UK, taking my masters in biography at the town’s university. Whenever I had the chance, I would take the train to London and spend the day on bookshops and museums, or go to the theatre to see a play. It was an amazing experience, and I hope to come back there in the future.

That sounds very exciting. 

How long have you been published? What titles have you published and with which publisher? Have you self-published any titles? Please give details.

My first book was Teorema de Mabel (Mabel’s Theorem) a Portuguese-written novella about a young girl named Mabel who gets a job as a typist for her favorite writer. However, when Mabel meets her new boss, she finds out he cannot write anything, so she decides to write the book herself, knowing that he will get the credit. I wrote this book due to my passion for typewriters, and am still very proud of it. It was self published, and I got to appear on local TV and newspapers with it.

After that I published Killing Dr. Watson, a thriller about a geek who teams up with an actor who played Sherlock Holmes on BBC to find out who’s the killer who’s eliminating actors who played Watson on TV. This book was released by MX Publishing, which only deals with Sherlock Holmes related material. It was later released as an audiobook, and it was an amazing thing to listen to it for the first time.

I’m now venturing into cozy mystery with the Grandma Bertha Solving Murders series. I always loved the genre, and decided to give it a try. The first volume, The Convenient Cadaver, was released on March 7 through Amazon.

Very nice. I’m hoping to review that book soon. It looks wonderful and is in a genre that I write.

Tell us a little more about your books.

I consider myself a crime writer, but like to venture into other genres once in a while. I created the Grandma Bertha Solving Murders series based on my experiences with my grandmothers Edite and Eva and with a elder friend named Silvia. My idea was to write about elderly people but not in a bitter way. Having an old person living with you can be harsh, but it can also be a wonderful and funny experience, and I wanted to write a book showing that.

Grandma Bertha is an old lady who loves horror movies and her dogs. Afraid that she’ll be lonely living by herself, her son Todd decides to make a bedroom for her on his garden shed so she can spend more time with the family. Todd’s wife Lydia doesn’t get along very well with Grandma Bertha, but their son Stu loves having his granny by his side.

One day, while they’re getting ready for a party, Lydia finds a dead body on the alley at the back of their house: a beautiful young woman shot three times on the back. They call the police immediately, but Grandma Bertha decides she’s going to find out who the killer is. You see, Grandma Bertha had an experience like that on the past, when she solved a murder but didn’t report to the police for not believing in her own deductions, and that haunted her for life. Now she wants to redeem herself by catching this one.

Sounds like great characters and a fun plot.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

I want to entertain people and tell stories they can relate to. I do my best to be funny and endearing and clever and all that good stuff. My goal is to release at least three more books in this series in the next two years, and I believe people will love what I have in mind for Grandma Bertha’s next cases.

I’m also working in a completely different project at the moment, a sci-fi book called Know Thy Enemy. I always wanted to co-write a book with another author, and I met a wonderful writer named Dawn Chapman with whom I got along like we were old buddies. We are now halfway through this book, and as soon as we finished with it I’ll go back to Grandma Bertha.

Excellent. I’m also working on another project at the moment and taking a break before I continue my Cobble Cove cozy mystery series with #4.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract?  Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

Anyone who likes a good mystery with touches of humor can enjoy The Convenient Cadaver, but I think that people who has had a strong relationship with their grandparents will find this book special.

Unfortunately, I never knew my grandparents, but I do enjoy mysteries that include a bit of comedy.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

You have to learn how the publishing industry works. That’s vital. Spend your money in books and courses about this industry. You can write the most amazing novel in the world, but if you’re clueless about how a book gets published, the odds are other people will make money out of your work. Sure, money is not the most important thing, but if you can write a good book and want to make an honest buck out of it, you should be informed about how to do it.

That’s an interesting insight. Although writing is an art, the business side of it is the publishing aspect.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

Publishing a  book in Brazil is a nightmare! I submited Teorema de Mabel to a Brazilian publishing house that took two years to answer me, and when they did, they wanted me to pay the equivalent of 5,000 dollars to publish my book. That’s more than a year of minimum wage in here, so I politely declined. These publishers don’t believe that your books is going to be successful, so they want you to pay in advance so if the book is a failure, only the author will lose money.

I only got to become a published author after I started writing in English and Italian. It’s much more effort to write a book in another tongue, but it’s amazingly easier to get it published in the UK or in Italy. Most publishers in Brazil are vanity presses, which is a shame, for that harms our own literature.

I agree. I paid to have my first book published, but I used an established self-publisher. I would not pay to publish a book with a vanity press, and I believe there aren’t too many still around in the U.S. for good reason.

Have you taken any writing or publishing classes? If so, please provide information about them and if you feel they helped you further your professional skills.

I took an online workshop of How to Get Published at Gotham Writers, and a live workshop called How to Make a Living (and a Life) out of your Writing when I was in London. They were vital for my career, and I advise every writer who wants to become a professional to take these kind of courses.

I’ve taken some online writing and publishing courses and also found them very helpful.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

I mostly watch a lot of movies and read a lot of books. I also have a collection of porcelain penguins I’m really proud of. I also collect Italian comics and old VHS’s.

Interesting. I used to collect cat figurines and other collectibles. 

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

The best thing by far is that I can write about anything I want to. That’s the most powerful feeling in the world, knowing that I can write any story that comes to my mind, and all it takes is the effort of sitting down and writing. The worst part is when people ask for free copies, not to read it but just to show their friends that they know a writer. The toughest challenge is that I’m building a career at a very long distance. My books are written in English and I’m living in Brazil, which feels very strange at times.

That must be challenging. 

Please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. and include some book cover graphics and author photos if possible.

Official site: https://mattferraz.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matheus.b.ferraz

Goodreads Links:

The Convenient Cadaver: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34728968-the-convenient-cadaver?ac=1&from_search=true

Killing Dr. Watson: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26760441-killing-dr-watson

Author: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14405163.Matt_Ferraz

Amazon Links:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Convenient-Cadaver-Grandma-Solving-Murders-ebook/dp/B06XYSQ1W8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491144570&sr=8-1&keywords=the+convenient+cadaver

Thank you so much for the interview, Matt. I wish you the best with your mystery series as well as your co-authored science fiction title. I will keep an eye out for them. 

Posted in Author Spotlight, Authors, Books, Solstice Publishing

Author Spotlight: Chad McClendon

Posted on by Debbie

authorspotlightWelcome to the Literary Library Lounge where I interview fellow authors. Today, I am chatting with  Chad McClendon from Ohio.

chad

limitlesslibrarylounge

Thanks for joining me, Chad.  Please take a seat and make yourself comfortable.

How long have you been published? What titles have you published and with which publisher? Have you self-published any titles? Please give details.

Well, I have been published since October of 2015. My very first publication was a short story entitled “Borris.” It is a Gothic Satire about a Vampire Raccoon who continues to live by targeting stock boys in Grocery stores late at night. I say it is Gothic because it contains classical elements of gothic stories, such as fire, a brooding hero, and castles, to name a few. 

One of my most recent publications is called “Die.xlsx” and is published by Fun Dead Publications, and it is a dark comedy.

I have several other online publications for my short stories & flash fiction tales. To name a few, “Just One More” appears in Bewildering Stories, and is the story of a Campfire Legend come to life (careful, it’s a chiller!) I’m pleased to say that my first poem will be published in The Voices Project in early 2018.

chad2And of course, my first title to appear in a book all my own was Lipstick Trace, published by Solstice Publishing. It is a story of two boys becoming unlikely friends, and falling in love with the same music, women, and in some ways each other.

Congratulations on all those publications.

Tell us a little bit about your books — what genre you write, if you write a series, any upcoming releases or your current work-in-progress. If you have an upcoming release, please specify the release date.

I have a tendency to write horror when it comes to my shorter works, whereas most of my novels tend to be Fantasy or Young Adult. Lipstick Trace is Young Adult, but my next project is called “Natalsa of the Brim”, and it is set to be a series.

Natalsa is about a witch struggling to reveal evil in the world, all the while trying to restore her own robbed powers. It is a tale of romance, adventure, deception, and most importantly, Magic.

Sounds very interesting.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

My goal for the longest time was to simply be published. This was accomplished in 2015. My next goal was to appear in print. This happened with “The Accident” in the “Tales From The Grave” anthology. My next goal was to be published in a book all my own and collect a profit, and this happened in Lipstick Trace in May of 2016!

So, my next writing goal is to appear in the New York Times Bestseller list. This is more a long term project. The goal to get there is to get at least 10,000 people to read my books.

To get to that goal, I am attending Literary Conventions, speaking at Schools, soliciting local Book Stores to see if my work can be sold there.

Excellent. I am also hoping to attract a wider readership. I’ve been querying agents and also speaking where I can, mostly at libraries because I’m a librarian. I’ve also spoken at my local Barnes and Noble and am attending a writer’s conference in May and Book Expo in June.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract?  Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

With Lipstick Trace, the 20-30 year old crowd. It was originally written 10 years ago, so it would deeply appeal to this demographic, as it contains pop culture references that they would most probably like. However, it is still a book centered around Teenagers going into Young Adulthood, I think they can still get a lot out of it.

Good luck with that.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

Collect 100 Rejection letters over the course of 365 days. Let me know if you aren’t published by that time.

I like that suggestion. Persistence is of utmost importance to authors.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

My biggest hurdle, and my most frustrating complaint, was getting rejection after rejection with no exact reason for why it was being rejected other than ‘it’s just not right for us at this time.’ It was a cop-out answer then, and it still is. However, I will say that I learned to seek out opinions on my writing from local author groups, people that weren’t my close friends or family. They gave me unique critiques that was able to get my works to a more publishable state.

Beta readers and objective readers are always a big help to authors.

Have you taken any writing or publishing classes? If so, please provide information about them and if you feel they helped you further your professional skills.

I went to college at Northern Kentucky University for Creative Writing. I took a lot of writing classes. I took the standards Grammar Class, Basic/Advanced College Writing, & Shakespeare. But once those dreadful things were out of the way, I got to take Creative Writing, Novel Writing, Fiction Writing, Gothic Literature & The Arts, so many others.

Writing is like learning to shoot a gun. Anyone can shoot a gun, but that guns gonna work a lot longer if you know how to clean it and keep it functioning right. The classes that provided me the most valuable lessons were Creative Writing & Novel Writing. These were groups that promoted constructive criticism, novel development, how to publish, and things to look out for when finding a publisher. If you’re local to NKU, I advise taking them.

They sound great. I was an English major but haven’t taken too many creative writing courses. However, I did take some online publishing courses from the Gale Courses database through my library. I thought they were very helpful.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

I like playing with my kids, playing League of Legends with my wife, camping, and recently grilling out. It’s been 60 degrees this week, and we’ve grilled out twice so far. I love the smell of smoke and extinguished matches, so naturally this is a good hobby for me.

Family time is important, and it’s also good to enjoy the outdoors in good weather .

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

I like that beautiful flash of creation that comes with the idea of a new novel. It is unlike any other experience in the creative process. You are filled with hope, plotlines, character arcs, and most of all potential. What I dislike least, rather what is most challenging, is finding the dang publisher for the thing. Publishing has gotten easier now that I have a few titles under my belt, but it’s still hard to break through!

I agree that writing is a wonderful creative process. I find marketing the hardest part of it because even when you find a publisher, you still need to find buyers for your book.

Please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. and include some book cover graphics and author photos if possible.

Website – www.cmcfiction.net

Facebook – www.facebook.com/cmcfiction

Twitter – www.twitter.com/cmc_fiction

Free Download for Lipstick Trace (Valid until March 1st 2017) – http://goo.gl/Z05Ckg

Thanks for the interview, Chad, and best wishes to you on your future books.

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Author Spotlight, Authors, Books

Author Spotlight: Women’s Fiction Author J. Schlenker

Posted on by Debbie

authorspotlightWelcome to the Literary Library Lounge where I interview fellow authors. Today, I am chatting with  J. Schlenker from Olive Hill, Kentucky.

jschlenker1

limitlesslibrarylounge

Thanks for joining me, Jerri (I hope you don’t mind my using your first name here).  Please take a seat and make yourself comfortable.

How long have you been published? What titles have you published? Please give details.

I don’t mind you calling me by my full first name at all. I’ve been published since December 2015. My three books are Jessica Lost Her Wobble, The Color of Cold and Ice, and  The Missing Butler and Other Life Mysteries (A Collection of Short Stories).  They are all Self-Published.

Congratulations. I have a small publisher, but I admire those who do it themselves.

Tell us a little bit about your books.

jschlenkerIn my short career I would say I write mainly women’s fiction.  I would categorize both “Jessica Lost Her Wobble” and “The Color of Cold and Ice” as women’s fiction, mainly. Both have women going through transitions in their lives. Although, “The Color of Cold and Ice” also has men going through transitional stages. “The Missing Butler and Other Life Mysteries” (A Collection of Short Stories) is a hodgepodge. However, the stories, I think, would appeal to the middle-aged or older woman. Should I say ‘more mature’ woman?

I am currently working on two new books: “The Innkeeper on the Edge of Paris” – A woman leaves her marriage and job in the US and travels to France and stays in an old inn where she has strange dreams and encounters a ghost, and meets a man. “Sally”  – Historical Fiction about a woman I met when I was 8. She was 103 at the time. She was born in 1858 into slavery.

All your books sound interesting. Women’s fiction is a very popular genre.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

I’m not one of those people who put goals out there, but as a writer, I want to write something that I’m happy about, something that causes someone to think, or smile, or cry in a good way.  I would hope to see my books as book club pics and in every library.

Those are excellent goals; and, since I’m a librarian, I like your desire to have your book in libraries. One of my goals is also to touch readers and make them think and feel.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract?  Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

The mature woman or mature male for that matter.

I think my Cobble Cove mystery series also appeals to mature readers because of the age of the characters. The main ones are 40+, although I’ve tried to introduce college-age characters as well as children into the series recently.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

First off, write what’s in your heart, what you are inspired to write.

I agree with that. Many writers are influenced by what they think the public wants to read. I believe you have to write what you feel or it won’t come across as genuine.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

Finding the right words?  After that, there was beta reading (I’ve lucked out on that one – I’ve found some great people who give me the feedback I need) and editing (the editing takes more time than the writing, on my part. My editor goes through it quickly – I lucked out on finding a good editor, too.). What does that leave? Formatting, getting it ready for publication. I’m self-published. So, I had to figure out to get it out there. I’m technologically impaired. So, up until recently, as I’ve had lots of practice doing this now, the formatting was the hardest. Now, I’m back to finding the right words as being the hardest.

Yes, editing takes a lot more time than writing. I don’t think people realize that until they’ve published a book. The first draft is just that, a draft. You have to mold it into the final product and that takes a lot of work. Beta readers and editors can help, but only you know what you want your work to convey.

Have you taken any writing or publishing classes? If so, please provide information about them and if you feel they helped you further your professional skills.

Yes, and yes, they’ve helped a lot. I belong to several writing groups which is helpful. We use writing prompts and critique each other’s work. I’ve taken around ten online writing classes. They are available through my library. I’ve learned a lot through them. I also met one of my beta readers through one of them.

I think you are referring to the Gale Courses, Jerri, and I believe you took some of the ones I took through my library with Eva Shaw. Gale Courses is a database that is offered nationwide through libraries. They have wonderful writing and publishing classes but also many other courses.

What are your hobbies and interests besides writing?

Art, Yoga, being with my family

Very nice. Your covers definitely show your art talent.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

Making myself write, the self-doubt.

Self-doubt is a biggie for most authors including myself.

Please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. and include some book cover graphics and author photos if possible.

https://www.facebook.com/J.SchlenkerAuthor/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14763892.J_Schlenker

https://athursdayschild.wordpress.com/

Thanks so much, Jerri. It was a pleasure having you here and learning more about you and your writing. Best wishes to you.