Excalibur Books Asked, I Answered

In anticipation of my newest novel hitting the shelves, Excalibur Books asked me some questions about it. Without further ado, here's what I had to say.

Could you tell us a little about yourself and your background? Sure. I'm a SF fan living in Japan. I taught English in the Japanese public school system at the junior high school level for five years. I'm no longer a teacher but I still live in Japan. When I'm not working or writing, you can usually catch me watching movies.

What genre are your books? Zero Sum Game is a science fiction novel; and my first book Adventure Hunters: Similitude is fantasy. That's all I have released so far.

What draws you to these genres? Despite growing up in the nature and beauty of Wyoming, I love science fiction. I love the escapism, SF's uses to explore social issues, its glimpses into the possible what-ifs futures, and of course the cool tech.

What was the main inspiration for Zero Sum Game? I wanted to write a SF/superheroine novel where the protagonist's powers are derived from her school uniform. In Japan, the school uniform is a big part of a student's life. Some students even choose their future high school or university based on the look of the uniform. I worked backwards from that: why does her uniform giver her super powers, where did it come from, how did she get it, and all sorts of other questions. Using that as a basis, I came up with ZSG.

Kanae Yagi at the 2016 Rio Olympics

Give us an insight into Hina Takamachi. What does she do that is so special? Hina was a difficult character to write, much more so than her friends and teachers and other minor characters in the novel. I wanted her to be a good girl but certainly not a Mary Sue. One thing I wanted her to be was athletic. I originally made her a volleyball player but I changed it to her being an Olympic weightlifter. I wanted to show that girls could be strong and still like fashion and be somewhat girly and have friends that support her activities. Olympic athlete Kanae Yagi was a big inspiration for Hina.

What aspects of Japanese culture do you include in your fiction? Deciding to make Hina a junior high student was a difficult choice. I didn't want ZSG to be a young adult novel but I wasn't sure if such a young main character could sell a book. If I had made her high school or college-aged, it might have been easier. But I had only taught junior high students. I specifically wanted to include lesser-known aspects of school life and culture that most people might not know. The hardest part was trying to figure out what I could explain in the book, and what would slow it down too much and best be left as notes and annotations on my website.

What's it like being a non-Japanese author living and writing in Japan? It's interesting to say the least! By being a bit of an outsider I think I'm able to observe things a bit differently than natives. I hope I can further add touches of culture and traditions to my works set in Japan. What's been the most difficult is that most of my Japanese friends don't read English, so they can't read my books! I hope to have them translated into Japanese one day.

Starring...Miki Nonaka?

Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book? That is a tough one and something I have thought about. I based Hina's look on Kanae Yagi and a model named Mana Yuzuki. But both are too old now to play Hina in a movie. I'm not sure who the most current actresses are in Hina's age range but I think Morning Musume '16's Miki Nonaka would be a good fit.

What else have you written? The aforementioned Adventure Hunters: Similitude; as well as a variety of articles for the Star Trek international fan group the 1701st, In Genre, and the magazine Preview, which is distributed on a military base here in Japan.

Where can we buy or see them? Both novels are available on Amazon in ebook and paperback formats. Zero Sum Game can be found here and Adventure Hunters: Similitude is here.

Which writers inspire you? Christopher L. Bennett and Stephen Baxter for incorporating hard science into their books. Bennett's original novel Only Superhuman is a recommended book that mixes superheroes and hard science. Manifold: Time by Baxter has always stuck with me. Neil Gaiman uses words in a magical way. I love his style and prose. The Ocean At The End Of The Lane is one of the best books I've read in a long time. I love Jeffery Deaver for his thriller twist and turns that take you by surprise, even though the clues were there all along. I recommend his novel The Cold Moon. And of course the King, as in Stephen. When I'm unsure how to write something, I look at how he does it. On Writing is my writing bible.

Do you have a special time to write or how is your day structured? Like almost all authors it seems I never have enough time to write! When I am writing a first draft, I try to get 500 words a day done. If I know I can't or I'm in the editing and rewriting phase, I try to work for half an hour every day. I find my best writing time usually starts around 10am, but I can only write at night because of my job. On my days off work I try to write in the morning.

Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you? I am definitely a plotter. I tried writing a story with no outline and just got lost after the first act. I'm very particular about my outlines because I am a stickler for structure. I guess that comes from writing screenplays before I started writing novels. For short stories, while I may have a specific scene or goal in mind, I usually don't outline them.

For your own reading, do you prefer ebooks or traditional paper/hard back books? Ebooks. Lately I have read and bought more paperbacks but I like the portability of ebooks. I can fit a thousand books in my pocket.

What book/s are you reading at present? Twenty Thousand Leagues Under The Seas by Jules Verne, who was also born on my birthday.

Do you let the book stew – leave it for a month and then come back to it to edit? Yes. After the first draft is done, I usually wait six weeks before returning to it. I have the day marked on my calendar. I try to start a new project and forget about the draft but it usually sits in the back of my mind.

Who edited your book and how did you select him/her? Nikki Bennett, a fabulous YA author and friend, edited my book for me. We met at a writer's meeting and she had already self-published several books.

Who designed your book cover/s? Steph's Cover Design. She also did great work on Excalibur's Voice trilogy and The Mists of Osorezan.

What would you say are the main advantages and disadvantages of self-publishing against being published or the other way around? Without a doubt, marketing. That is the biggest disadvantage for self-publishing and the biggest advantage for traditional. Marketing is a social and selling trade and most authors just aren't like that. Another advantage of traditional publishing is having a cover artist/designer. There are, sadly, some tremendously horrible self-made covers out there. The biggest advantage for self-publishing is creative control. You can write as niche as you want and not worry about editors telling you "It won't sell." As a reader, that adds a whole lot a variety to your reading.

How do you relax? Watching movies, usually at home on my days off. I average about two a week. And I love going to the Japanese movie theater a lot more than an American theater. It's a lot more subdued and easygoing.

How can readers discover more about you and you work? Follow me on my social media accounts. Don't be shy about leaving reviews, likes, or comments. I want to hear from my readers and interact with them.


Social Media Links
Resonant Blue (blog)
Facebook Page
Twitter
Amazon Author Page
Instagram


I'd like to thank Excalibur Books for the interview and I hope you enjoyed it. As always, thank you for reading.

Author Spotlight: Jim Musgrave

Jim & Ellen Musgrave

September's Author Spotlight is on Jim Musgrave.

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Tell us a bit about yourself. 
I am a retired college professor of English (24 years), and I also worked at Caltech in Pasadena as the Supervisor of Management Development at the Industrial Relations Center. I also worked as an editor, TV news writer, and freelance journalist. I now devote my time to my fiction and to an editing business, English Majors Publishers and Editors, LLC. I am married to Ellen, who is also a retired college professor, and we live in San Diego.

Do you write under a pen name? 
I wrote some horror under the name “E. Z. Graves” and “Efraim Z. Graves. ” Most of my fiction is under “Jim Musgrave. ”

What’s your writing background? When did you begin writing and what inspired you? 
I was inspired by an inner need to create with words, and I was an autodidact, as my immediate family did not have a writer in its midst. In high school, I was on the school newspaper and year book, and in college I majored in Radio and TV Communications. My Master’s Degree was in Creative Writing from San Diego State University. I write both genre and literary work, as well as non-fiction.

What books have you written so far? 
Forevermore: A Pat O’Malley Historical Mystery 
Disappearance at Mount Sinai: A Pat O’Malley Historical Mystery 
Jane the Grabber: A Pat O’Malley Historical Steampunk Mystery 
The Digital Scribe: A Writer’s Guide to Electronic Media 
Lucifer’s Wedding 
Sins of Darkness 
Russian Wolves 
Iron Maiden an Alternate History 
The Necromancers or Love Zombies of San Diego 
Freak Story: 1967-1969 
The President’s Parasite and Other Stories 
The Mayan Magician and Other Stories 
Catalina Ghost Stories

Are your books or characters based on real life? 
Yes, since I writer “historical fiction, ” many of my characters are based on actual people. However, they are given dialogue to reflect the plot of my story.

Who is your favorite character from your books? Why? 
Detective Patrick James O’Malley from my historical mystery series. He is a Civil War hero who is out of a job, and he has psychological hang-ups like many vets do. I like him because I grew-up in a Navy family, and I am also a vet.


How long does it take you to write your book/s? 
I can write one of my Detective Pat O’Malley books in two months. They are always 12 chapters (with a prologue and epilogue) and run under 60,000 total words.

Do you plan or write by the seat of your pants? 
I have a clear focus for the plot, but I write each chapter to “surprise myself. ” If I am not interested, then I imagine my reader will follow suit. Therefore, I need to include surprises that happen to the characters and cause them to react/think/plan.

What makes your writing unique? 
I can easily weave actual history and setting details into my story lines to serve my plotting needs.

Any advice for the editing process? 
Hire a professional.

Are you published or self-published? What is your experience? 
I have been published by a big publisher (Harcourt-Brace), and I have also published independently. My negative experience with the big publisher caused me to “go indie, ” and I have not regretted it as yet.

Do you have any advice for other writers? 
If you believe in yourself, then get somebody who is a “really good” writer (and not a relative or friend) to verify that belief. I did this with one Jacob M. Appel, a writer I met online who has recently won the prestigious Dundee (Scotland) International Literary Novel Award. Jacob also teaches writing in New York City, and he was won more story contests than any writer I have ever known. When he said my writing was “superb” and he compared me to guys like T. C. Boyle, Tom Wolfe, George Saunders and Steven Millhauser, and I really started taking myself seriously! Unless you get accolades from other writers, then I would not consider fiction writing as a profession. There are too many scam artist publishers and vanity presses out there to “fly by the seat of your pants. ” Besides, it gives us indie authors a bad name when too much crap is published to muddy the readers’ waters. Their time is too precious to be wasted on “wannabes. ”

What books have most influenced your life?
 Camus’ The Stranger. All of Franz Kafka’s work (he should be read like history). Mark Twain’s work (humans are funny).

Who is your favorite character from any book and why? 
Holden Caulfield from Catcher in the Rye because he was like me as a teenager.

For reading, do you prefer ebooks or physical books?
Ebooks.

If there was one author you could meet with and learn from one on one, who would you choose? 
Either Shirley Jackson or Lawrence Block.

If you could write a book with any current author, who would it be and why? 
Jacob M. Appel because he likes to add humor to his literary fiction the way I do.

What is the best review of your work you've received to date? 
My short stories were reviewed by Jacob M. Appel (The Mayan Magician and Other Stories). He said: “With the publication of The Mayan Magician and Other Stories, Jim Musgrave joins the ranks of the George Saunders, Steven Millhauser and Kevin Brockmeier at the heart of the modern American short story’s second great renaissance. Musgrave writes with commanding authority of both the past and the future, of adventures at home and abroad. He is a skilled stylist and a powerful raconteur. Musgrave’s characters are memorable, courageous, and—like his prose—intensely compelling. ”

What format(s) are your books available in? 
Paperback and ebook. There are also a few hard cover.

Is there anything else you would like to share or tell us?
Thanks for letting me share! Keep writing and reading. I’ll be appearing in San Diego at the Upstart Crow in Seaport Village on August 29, 2013 (7-9 PM). I’ll also be on a variety of online blogs starting on August 27, 2013 and continuing for 90 days.

Pat O’Malley Historical Steampunk Mysteries

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I'd like to thank Jim Musgrave for stopping by. Be sure to check out his books. As always, thanks for reading.

Author Spotlight: Brenda Perlin

For August, I interviewed Brenda Perlin.

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Tell us a bit about yourself (short bio). 

Brenda Perlin is an independent adult contemporary fiction author.  Brenda evokes emotional responses in her readers by using a provocatively unique writing style. Her latest book, Home Wrecker, captures the soul-wrenching conflicts of a personal struggle for emotional fulfillment.

Ever since Brenda was a child, she has been fascinated with writing. She draws her biggest inspiration from Judy Blume.  This sparked a passion in Brenda to pursue personal expression through writing. Once she was old enough to go to coffee shops alone, Brenda recalls losing herself in the world of writing, all while documenting her ideas on paper napkins.

“There is really no creative process, I just write,” – Brenda Perlin

Brenda’s first book, Home Wrecker, was published with Master Koda Select Publishing. Within a short time, the book developed a strong fan base and is continuing to grow as it both entertains its readers and leaves them in a state of profound reflection. In the near future, Brenda would like to have Home Wrecker expanded into a trilogy in order to tell the untold stories of her characters.

Do you write under a pen name?

No....Do you think I should?

What’s your writing background? When did you begin writing and what inspired you?

I remember writing short stories when I was in elementary school. I used to love putting words together like they were pieces of a puzzle. I loved building a plot and seeing how I could make the characters interact. When I was in my teens I used to write everyday in coffee shops on paper napkins. I used to keep these napkins in a box as a keepsake. When I eventually opened the box I found my stories so hard to read. It was before I used a computer. My handwriting is dreadful!

What is your day job or are you lucky enough to write for a living?

I hope my only job will be writing. I have worked as a fitness instructor for years. I love helping people attain their fitness and life goals.

What books have you written so far?

Home Wrecker is my first. Now I am working on the sequel for the trilogy. I have also contributed to two books. 8 Slices of Cake has recently been released on Smashwords and the other compilation called Reality Bites that should be come out shortly.

Do you plan on being a full-time writer, or do you have other career plans?

I would love for writing to be a full-time career. I love the entire process.

Do you have any hobbies? What do you like to do in your free time?

I am a pretty simple person. I like being out and about with my boyfriend. I love music and I love to laugh. 

What do you write? Specific genres, ages groups, etc. 

Thus far my writing is reality oriented. I am calling my stories fiction only because I have changed, names, places and circumstances. Everything I write is real and has happened. I want my books to be open and honest. I am not sure what I will do next. I have so many stories from life to tell.

Why that particular genre/age group?

Home Wrecker is part coming of age, marriage/divorce saga, and somewhere in-between. I think a wide age range would be interested in my story. Definitely for mature audiences.

Are the characters in your books based on people you know?

Every character in the book is real and have been in my life. It is best to stay on my good side or you might end up as a villain in my next book!

How much of your books are inspired by real life events?
EVERYTHING!!!

Who is your favorite character from your books? Why?

That is easy! Brooklyn, the main character is my favorite. Since my story is based on my life, I can relate to this character the most. After all, I have lived her story.

Tell us about a typical day in your life as a writer.

From the minute I wake up in the morning I am thinking about writing or marketing my writing. It really is a full time job because I think about it all of the time. I cannot spend enough time working. There is just never enough hours in the day. I could see how someone like J.D. Salinger who pretty much became a hermit. That would be easy to do. With all the characters in my head, Facebook and Twitter I am extremely busy.

Where and when do you write?  

I do much of my writing with my laptop sitting on my stationary bike. I call it multi-tasking! I never really sweat but I can be seated in the same place for hours.

Do you have set times?

I tend to do my best writing in the morning when I am fresh. I can never wait to get started.

How do you manage to fit in writing among other commitments?

I really do have to struggle to get what I want to get done but also have enough time to spend with my boyfriend. Thankfully I don’t have children so I can be a little more selfish. I have it pretty good that I do not have many commitments.

Do have any writing rituals? Treats you have to have, places you have to be, etc.? 

As far as rituals, I like to have bottled water and sucking candies at my side.

Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what do you listen to?

I do like to listen to music when I write. Sometimes when I am working on something more intense I like complete silence. The quieter the better.

Do you have to be alone to write?

I don’t have to be alone but I do not love being asked questions or be interrupted while I am writing. I just try to ignore everything and everyone around me.

What makes your writing unique?

I think for thing, I don’t have a writing background. My writing is pretty raw. I pretty much write how I speak. Whatever it is that I write, it comes from the heart.

Is there a message in your novels that you want readers to grasp?

I do seem to have a favorite theme which is the outcast. Since I can relate to not always fitting in with my piers I tend to gravitate to stories where there is a person struggling to get her/his own voice. I do love coming of age stories. Usually the character feels misunderstood in some way.

What’s the hardest part of writing for you?

The obstacles the I am faced with on a daily basis. At the end of the day most things work out but there are many roadblocks along the way. I have to learn to go with the flow and not stress over the little things. This is all new for me and this is a real learning process. Rome was not built in a day, right?

What have you learned about writing from reading the books that you love?

I think reading really helps as a writer. You just naturally pick up things along the way. I am new to writing dialog so it is good to read good dialog. Also, reading really helps one’s vocabulary and improves imagination.

If you could do everything over (writing your book, or publishing, etc.) would you change anything?

When my book was first published I did it through a very shady publisher. I was so proud to have my book accepted by a publishing company that I really didn’t listen to my inner. I should have run for the hills but instead I signed a seven year contract that was a no winning proposition.

Is there anything particularly helpful you have found as you have written/edited/published? 

I think the most profound guidance I have received has been from other authors. Friends are not always as interested where these writers can relate to the struggle of trying to get your book recognized.

Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members in your writing journey?

Facebook honestly has opened up a whole new world for me. Had I not gotten involved I never would have met a brilliant writer, Arlene R. O’Neil who introduced my book to Kim Mutch Emerson of Master Koda Select Publishing. I do believe things happen for a reason and this has been a real blessing as far as I am concerned.

Did you learn anything from writing your books and if so what was it?

First of all I have learn a ton about myself. It has taught me that I could work hard for something as long as my heart was in it and as it so happens my heart is completely open to this journey. 

Do you design your own covers, or have someone else help?

Lucky for me I found Andrew JD Robinson, at Run Rabbit Run Films to do all my book cover. He is not only amazingly talented by wildly patient too!

Do you have a critique group/partner or beta readers, or do you self-edit?

I need all the editing I can get. For a while John Emil Augustine was helping with Home Wrecker. Since he is in such great demand I am not sure what I am going to do for book two. It could use some TLC. That is for sure. Thankfully Arlene R. O’Neil edited Home Wrecker! I am in pretty good hands!

Any advice for the editing process?

You can read your stuff over with a fine tooth comb but you can always use a new set of eyes. Things get missed and also another opinion is ALWAYS helpful!

Did anything in particular inspire anything in your book, or anything you have written?

Yes, that would be my entire life. I got all the inspiration from living long enough to have a story to tell.

When I first started writing Home Wrecker I planned on it being a story about the wedding business because I was planning my wedding at the time. When I was going through a divorce I picked my story back up. The subject took a 360 turn.

What types of hero or heroine do you like best?

I am drawn to the outcast. I like characters that are okay with being different and don’t thrive on having to fit in.

What do you think is the ideal recipe for a good novel or story?

First and foremost as a writer I have to remember that my job is to entertain first and satisfy myself last. Sometimes it is easy to do it the other way around. A book should capture the reader for the sheer purpose of entertainment. If something can be learned along the way, then that is an added bonus.

How do you go about naming characters?

It was all random and was last minute. Originally I thought I would be able to keep all of the real names. Obviously, I was not thinking clearly.

Are you published or self-published? What is your experience?

As I said earlier I was first published by a very nasty publishing company. I was able to fight my way out of my contract and what a blessing that was because now I have a great publisher, Master Koda Select. I can communicate with them freely and I am treated like a person, not a number.

How do you find the marketing experience? 

There is just never enough time. I could spend 24 hours a day marketing my book and there would still be things left to do. Let’s just say it is rewarding but time consuming!

When you read, what is your favorite genre?

I still love coming of age stories, old literature, and fiction.

What books have most influenced your life?

Middlesex, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, Catcher in the Rye, Franny & Zoey, Prince of Tides, Of Human Bondage, The Great Gatsby, and the list goes on and on.

Who is your favorite character from any book and why?

Holden Caulfield. Somehow when I first read the book The Catcher in the Rye I really connected with him although I am not saying I lie about things for no reason.

For reading, do you prefer ebooks or physical books?

I have just started reading ebooks which I didn’t think I would like as much as I do. I thought I would never want to give up paper books but now I think I am sold. It is so convenient in so many ways!

What is your most favorite book and why? 

Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy. The writing is so clear and precise and the main character, Tom Wingo becomes a part of you.

What is the worst book you have ever read and why? 

I had some really bad books in my opinion but I remember hating Grapes of Wrath when I was in school.  I will always think of that book with extreme dread.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

That is easy, it would be John Emil Augustine. He has helped me with my writing in so many ways. We met during an interview that we did together. We were selected to be on the same show because our books are both reality based. We had much in common and started working together helping each other with edits. He had more to offer as far as editing because he was once an English teacher. Still, we work as a good team. I hope one day we will work on something together. I think our writing compliments each other.

Are there particular writers that you admire?

Pat Conroy, Summerset Maugham, Anne Tyler, Lisa See, Jeffrey Eugenides, Judy Blume, JD Salinger, John Emil Augustine and the list goes on. Then there are all my friends...that is a very long list!

If there was one author you could meet with and learn from one on one, who would you choose?

I would love love love to meet Pat Conroy. I love his ability to convey so much vulnerability in his stories. I would love to sit down his him and hear about his life.

Who has most influenced or inspired your writing? 

That would be John Emil Augustine. He has really pushed me to go a little further in my story.

If you could write a book with any current author, who would it be and why? 

I think John Emil Augustine could write a very good story. He is able to ask me a question about my story and inspires me.

Which three authors would you like to take to the pub?

Only three you ask? Darn....I would love to meet Kim Mutch Emerson, Arlene R. O’Neil and Mark Barry but I think John Emil Augustine, Paige Bleu,  and Lisa Day would have to join us. What fun that would be for me!

Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

John Emil Augustine, K.D. Emerson, Arlene R. O’Neil, Mark Barry, Paige Bleu, Lisa Day, Jessica Kong, Susan Francis, Sarah Buchynski, Sarah Denier, Jane Carroll, and DeEtte Beckstead Anderton

Please share a bit about your newest release without giving away any spoilers.

This is from my new release Home Wrecker I (Home Wrecker Chronicles)

When Brooklyn meets Bo, their lives are instantly turned upside down. 

Brooklyn and Bo, each unhappily married to someone else, have to decide whether to stay with their spouses or give up everything for each other. Find out what Brooklyn's husband and Bo's soon-to-be ex-wife do to break them up.

Home Wrecker is the first book in a three part series that follows the main character, Brooklyn throughout her childhood, adult life and then what seems like an “endless” journey towards redemption.

What genre does your book fit into?

Well I am calling it fiction to protect myself from lawsuits.

What are your current projects?

Home Wrecker, Home Wrecker: The Brooklyn Chronicles and Home Wrecker: The Bo Chronicles.

Do you have any ideas that you plan to work on in the future?

I really want to write a children’s book. I have a feeling I need to do it. I am so connected with people who are misunderstood, don’t blend in with the crowd, and are unfairly judged. Also, I hate bullies!

Would you say that your dreams have come true or are you still working on them?

I am certainly still a work in progress but many of my dreams have come true. I have met the love of my life and have had my book published by such a wonderful company. Life is darn good!

Do you have a blog? What do you blog about?

Yes, homewreckertheblog.com. Most of my posts pertain to my book Home Wrecker. Most of my blogging is from real life. I write from my personal experience and I am not very good at keeping secrets so I share probably more than I should.

What would you like to achieve in the next five years?

I am just that I am walking and doing what I love to do. Being on a Bestseller list with my writing or on Oprah would be pretty darn awesome!

In the movie of your {most recent} book who would play your characters? {Please give us the name of the book and the name of the character each actor would play} 

Home Wrecker I (Home Wrecker Chronicles)

Sandra Bullock would play the main character  Brooklyn 
Kevin Costner or Richard Gere would play Brooklyn’s love interest for Bo
John Travolta would play Brooklyn’s ex-husband Gerard
Susan Sarandon would play Bo’s soon-to-be ex -wife of Bo.

What is the best review of your work you've received to date? 

I have received some beautiful reviews but a wonderful reviewer named Natalie Walker Idrogo wrote something with such heart.

“From the moment I started reading this book I knew I was going to like it. Little did I know by the end of the book I would fall in love with it.

Brooklyn's life from the beginning sucks you in.

She struggles to find herself in her relationships, her family and even in her marriage.

Brooklyn loses people she loves and looks for love in all the wrong places.

In the second part of the book (my favorite), there is something so compelling that Brooklyn has to face. It tugged at my heart strings and I couldn't help but shed a few tears.

As if Brooklyn hasn't endured enough on her wild ride of a journey, yet again she is hit with another mind boggling circumstance that is out of her control, nor is it any where near her fault!

This part of the book made my admiration for Brooklyn shoot up to a ten. Talk about an inspiring and strong woman. Let's just put it this way, I was wishing I could morph into the book and help Brooklyn with the hot mess she had come to have to deal with on a daily basis. UGH is an understatement but, I will keep it clean!

The one thing that inspired me the most was Brooklyn's FIRE, COURAGE, and HEART!

Brooklyn believes in what she is fighting for and never gives up.

As much as I would love Brenda to write a "Home Wrecker Part Two." I have to say not at the expense of this beautiful person I fell in love with.

"Home Wrecker" is a MUST read and I give it a five star rating.”

What format(s) are your books available in? 

Ebook for now but shortly you can get a paperback as well.

Is there anything else you would like to share or tell us?

Thank you so much Cody for taking the time to interview me. I really appreciate your support and generosity!

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Home Wrecker I (Home Wrecker Chronicles)

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CKBWWIU/ref=cm_sw_r_fa_ask_-Q2UF.0KXY062

GOODREADS http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15825106-home-wrecker

WEBSITE http://www.homewreckerthebook.com

FACEBOOK: HOME WRECKER https://www.facebook.com/HomeWreckertheBook

FACEBOOK: HOME WRECKER: THE BROOKLYN AND BO CHRONICLES

https://www.facebook.com/HomeWreckerTheBrooklynandBoChronicles

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

http://www.amazon.com/Brenda-Perlin/e/B0088M542Q/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1359823060&sr=8-1

TWITTER

https://twitter.com/HomeWreckerbook

8 Slices of Cake

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/8-slices-of-cake-melanie-toye/1114675541

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/281812

LinkedIn

http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=228478303&trk=tab_pro

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I'd like to thanks Brenda for her time and effort in doing this interview. Remember, to support independent authors, visit their pages, read their books, and leave reviews. I hope you enjoyed this month's Author Spotlight and look forward to next month's installment. As always, thanks for reading.

Author Spotlight: DeEtte Anderton

This month's spotlight shines on Christian author and Master Koda Select Publishing editor DeEtte Anderton.

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Tell us a bit about yourself. 

I am the mother of 6, grandmother of 12, and have been mom to many furkids, canine, feline, and aves. My cockaiel, Cricket is currently living with my good friend in Utah. I couldn't bring him to New England when I came. He sends me videos periodically to let me know he is happy and doing well. My family is extremely important to me.

I also love to crochet. I have made so many things over the years I couldn't begin to list them. My grandkids all know all they have to do is ask and I will make them what they want, whether it is a new blanket or beard beanies or toys. 

History is one of my loves, too. Now that I am in New England, I have many new places to discover!

I also have spent most of my life working with people with disabilities. My family took foster children as I grew up, and we specialized in those with disabilities. I have also directed camps for them, evaluated properties for camps, and worked as a group home manager for many years.

Do you write under a pen name? 

Yes, I write using my maiden name, DeEtte Beckstead.

What’s your writing background? When did you begin writing and what inspired you? 

I have written for years.  I used to teach creative writing at a private school for a few years. I also homeschooled my two youngest through high school. I have had a few poems, essays, and editorials published in various newsletters but I didn't start writing seriously until 2007 when my older son finally convinced me to join him in writing during NaNoWriMo. When I started writing then, I just started writing. I had no plan for the story or for publishing it. I was writing because I enjoyed it. Victory is the result of that. 

Do you have another job or are you a full-time writer? 

I am a full-time me! I am unemployed, but I am helping my daughter with her kids right now. 

What books have you written so far? 

So far I have two works published: The Christmas Visitors, which is a Christian paranormal short story, and Victory which is my debut novel.

Do you have any hobbies? What do you like to do in your free time? 

I crochet. I make all kinds of things from afghans and baby items to toys to children's things and pet sweaters and accessories!  When I'm not crocheting, I like to do things with my grandkidlets, read, or watch movies. I also enjoy camping and being “in the woods” when I can.

What genre or age groups do you write? Why? 

Victory is Christian fiction for anyone 13 and up. I also write children's stories and have a nonfiction WIP. I write Christian fiction because I love the Lord and want my writing to reflect that.

Are your books or characters based on real life? 

To some extent, yes, some characters are; some are composites of people I know, and some are purely fictional.

Who is your favorite character from your books? Why? 

My favorite character from Victory has to be Brown Eyes. She is a child, but she has a wisdom beyond her years. She has a pure heart and, even though she has had a rough time in her young life, she remains sweet and loving. 

What is your favorite scene in your story? 

In Victory, my favorite scene is with a pigeon that dies, and Brown Eyes buries it.  

Tell us about a typical day in your life as a writer. 

My typical day is different from day to day. There is no typical to it for me right now! I get up, at some point I sit down with my laptop and write. Beyond that, life is a roller coaster and mine is always full of surprises!

Where and when do you write?  

I write at the kitchen table right now, and usually when my grandkids are at school, but since it's summer, I will have to find a time!

How long does it take you to write your book/s? 

Both my published works started out as NaNo projects, so originally they took 30 days, or thereabout. They sat on my computer for 4 years, and were finally brought out again last year for editing and polishing that led to publishing.

Do have any writing rituals? Treats you have to have, places you have to be, etc.? 

I like it to be peaceful. I didn't say quiet; I said peaceful. I don't do well with conflicts going on. I can write with little kids playing and running around, but I cannot write when they fight. I like to listen to classical music or Contemporary Christian music while I write. Both help me focus on what I am doing. I don't like to be interrupted when I write, unless it is a grandkidling needing a hug or some help. I like to have coffee or water with me, and perhaps some chocolate, too. 

Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what do you listen to? 

I like to listen to either classical or Contemporary Christian music. I can't have it quiet because I get too distracted by the ringing in my ears.

Do you have to be alone to write? 

I prefer to be alone as far as people go, but I used to have my dog with me. He isn't with me anymore, and I have found writing more difficult without him.

Do you write linear, or jump back and forth? Do you plan or write by the seat of your pants? 

I am a linear writer for the most part. I may go back to adjust or change something so it will work, but most of the time I just keep moving forward. I usually write by the seat of my pants. I find I write better that way. If I try to plan, my writing comes out as contrived and doesn't have the flow it does when I don't. That could just be my own perception of it, but if I don't like it, I don't like it! I have to be happy with my writing before I am willing to take the next step with it.

What makes your writing unique? 

My writing is unique because I am unique. I write from my heart, which I realize is how most writers write, but since I am unique, I see things differently from how others do. My life experiences are different from everyone else's and that makes my perspective different. I like to use  a Christian theme in my fiction writing because that's who I am. 

I like to paint word pictures to help my readers feel part of the story, not just an observer. It's easy to get carried away with that, so I write a lot, then pull out what isn't necessary, leaving enough to still keep the story alive and warm.

Are there any messages or common themes in your stories? 

Strong family values, compassion, forgiveness, faith, freedom are all common in my stories. I like to let the reader know he is worth being loved, no matter what, because God loves us all. He may not like what we do, but He loves us!

What’s the hardest part of writing for you?  

Probably getting up the courage to let it go out into the world, stopping at the editor and publisher first. All writers think of their stories as their babies, and it's hard to let go of something so full of our time, our hearts, our passion.

What have you learned about writing from reading the books that you love? 

Characters need to be real. Even fantasy characters need to be believable. The plot needs to move the story forward and not stagnate, and the passion (love) the author has for his story needs to pour through.

If you could do everything over (writing your book, or publishing, etc.) would you change anything? 

I think I would start the publishing process sooner instead of leaving my story sit for years.

Is there anything particularly helpful you have found as you have written/edited/published? 

Have a good relationship with your publisher and editor. I am also an editor, and I like to be a teacher to the writer, telling him or her why I make the suggestions I do, as well as ask questions about things I don't know about in the story. I have learned a lot about different parts of the world, different jobs, different things by asking the writer these things. I appreciate my editor asking me about such things, too.

Do you have to travel/do much research for your books? 

With Victory and The Christmas Visitors, no. I used places that were already familiar and I created the story around those.

Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members in your writing journey.  

Without a doubt, it would be my long time friend and publisher, Kim Emerson. She encouraged me to get my manuscripts out, dust them off, and publish them. She has encouraged me, helped me in some tough spots, and been a wonderful friend through it all.

Do you design your own covers, or have someone else help? 

The cover for The Christmas Visitors was designed by Rebbekah White, who works with MasterKoda Select Publishing. My son Christopher Anderton did my cover for Victory. He is a graphic designer for Columbia University. I feel blessed to have both these people do my covers for me.

Do you have a critique group/partner or beta readers, or do you self-edit? 

I self-edit till I am ready to send it to my publisher, who sends it to an editor. I had a friend read Victory before it was published.

Any advice for the editing process? 

Don't self-edit without sending your work to an editor. We know too well what we mean and we will see that instead of what is actually there on the page. It's easy to miss a comma, period or misplaced apostrophe. A pair of trained eyes is well worth the time and money. Your editor should be someone you trust and have good communication with, one who will explain things to you, not just tell you to “change this!”

What do you do to keep yourself going when you aren’t motivated? 

Sometimes I just walk away for awhile. It could be a few minutes or a couple days. Sometimes I just sit down and write. I often find that writing a descriptive paragraph of a setting helps me.  

What types of hero or heroine do you like best? 

I like strong heroes or heronines. Not necessarily physically strong, but emotionally strong, confident. They need to have flaws, too, but they overcome those flaws somehow to be the hero. Size isn't important in being a hero, either. 

What do you think is the ideal recipe for a good novel or story?  

A good novel needs equal parts: strong characters, a good plot, and good dialogue that moves the story forward. Carefully mix with love. Sprinkle with laughter in all the right spots. and pour out into the hands of the readers in such a manner as to not overwhelm them, but to entice them to beg for more. 

A good plot should be realistic even if it is a total fantasy. It should fit the overall story and characters. Good dialogue can be used to “fill in the blanks” of the plot or background story. A good novel shouldn't have a lot of extras that don't contribute to the story. And it should be written from the heart.

How do you go about naming characters? 

That's an interesting question. Some characters seem to name themselves, and others have to be named. Writers need to be cautious when choosing names, though. In one of my stories, the antagonist had a name very close to a man who became my son-in-law a couple years after I wrote it. I changed the antagonist's name because my son-in-law is NOTHING like the antagonist! 

Is it easier to write about the characters if you find pictures of them before you write or do you write then find character pictures? 

No, I have never done that. I create pictures in my mind and describe them from that. I personally would find a physical picture limiting. Not everyone is like that, and that's fine. 

How do you pick locations for your stories? 

The town where my youngest daughter and I lived for three years is the model for the town of Victory. The setting for The Christmas Visitors was a thousand places I had seen over the years. Sometimes I use local settings, sometimes I get an idea when I see a photo.

Are you published or self-published? What is your experience?  

I am published through a small publisher, MasterKoda Select Publishing. It has been a wonderful experience, with people who truly care and are helpful and encouraging. 

Do you have any advice for other writers? 

Write about what you love. Write what is in your heart to write. Some people journal; I do not. I find it more of a hindrance than a help for me.  Don't worry about making it all work to start with; just write. There will be time later to go back and make corrections, adjustments, deletions. Write what you feel. There is that old saying “Strike while the iron is hot.” When you know you have something to write, get it written then. Carry a notebook and pen with you to make notes or write complete scenes if you are away from the keyboard. 

If a word count is important, don't fill in with words that don't add to the story. Just write. Once the first draft is finished, you can go back. 

Don't be afraid of editors; they are your friends, there to help you make your story the best it can be. Your family and friends are not generally good editors. 

Find the method that works for you and stick with it, even if your best writing buddy uses a different style. If you need to write an outline and character sketches first, do so. If you write better just sitting down and writing, do that.

Don't be discouraged. Not everyone should be published, and not everything should be published, even by the best authors. If you enjoy writing, then write! Whether or not you ever get anything published, you are a writer if you write.

When you read, what is your favorite genre? 

I enjoy classics, as well as other fiction. I generally don't go for much sci-fi/fantasy, but I love LOTR, The Hobbit, and Chronicles of Narnia!

What books have most influenced your life? 

Undoubtable, the Bible has. C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkein's writings have, too. 

Who is your favorite character from any book and why? 

Again, a hard question. I love Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice. She is a strong woman in a world that doesn't always appreciate that quality. She is loving and cares for her family. 

I also love Samwise Gamgee in LOTR.  He is a faithful friend, willing to die with or for his friend. He is loyal and has strength when others fail. 

For reading, do you prefer ebooks or physical books?  
Personally, I love the feel of a nice hardcover book in my hands! Paperbacks are next, and ebooks follow that. However, since I have a limited space, I am thankful I have the Kindle app on my iPad and can carry an entire library with me wherever I go! I think the most important part is being able to read, not so much how it is available!

What is your most favorite book and why? 

I love Canterbury Tales, Beowulf, Moby Dick, LOTR, Narnia, Pride and Prejudice..... but of those, right now I would have to say LOTR  because of the good vs evil and the strong, inspiring characters. Each of the main characters is unique and brings something different to the story.  

What is the worst book you have ever read and why? 

I really couldn't say because if I don't like a book, I won't read it! 

What tips would you give readers when choosing a book? 

Every once in a while, try a different genre from what you normally read. You may discover a new favorite!

Are there particular writers that you admire? 

Again, I would say C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. I love how they tell their stories. 

If there was one author you could meet with and learn from one on one, who would you choose? 

C.S. Lewis would be the one.

Who has most influenced or inspired your writing? 

That would be Kim Emerson. She believed in me before I even thought I could be published. She encouraged me all the way, and continues to help me now. She is a good friend to have. 

Which three authors would you like to hang out with socially for a day? 

C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Jane Austen

Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest? 

Yes! G Mitchell Baker, Joe McCoubrey, Brad Fleming, KD Emerson, to name a few!

What are your current projects? 

I am working on a story with my own family stories included.

Is there a genre you haven’t done before that you would like to try?

I have plenty to handle right now!

Do you have any ideas that you plan to work on in the future? 

Yes. I have a WIP about my first puppy mill rescue. It's her story, and I hope to include a few stories of other rescues I know!

Would you say that your dreams have come true or are you still working on them?  

I'm still working on them. I will keep working on them till I die!

Five book recommendations from you… 

In no particular order:  Victory (of course!), Lethal Believers—The Innocents by G Mitchell Baker, Digitus 233 by KD Emerson, Death by Licence by Joe McCoubrey, and  Fateful Night Book One (What She Knew Trilogy) by KR Hughes and TL Burns.

Do you have a blog? What do you blog about? 

My blog is http://deetteanderton.wordpress.com. I blog about writing, pets, crocheting, family, and I frequently interview other authors!

What would you like to achieve in the next five years? 

I would like to publish two or three more books. I wouldn't mind doing a workshop for kids to encourage them to write, either. :)

What is the best review of your work you've received to date? 

“When I first heard this was a Christian story I thought, are they going to be conking me over the head with biblical verses? Then I started reading it. It is a story of hurt and abuse, but most importantly redemption. It is a modern tale that is very relatable to anyone who has a past. It lets you know that no matter who you are you are worthy of love. I loved how it seemed to be from the viewpoint of a young girl who tells the story from her perspective. Not all is at it seems and many judge a person based on looks. This is one book that once you start it you won't be able to put it down. I found it a very enjoyable read that kept me entertained and guessing throughout the whole book until the last page. I look forward to other stories from this author and would even be willing to read more Christian books from her. Thank you very much for a great story DeEtte!"

What format(s) are your books available in? 

They are available as ebooks for Kindle. 

Is there anything else you would like to share or tell us?

Author and blogger, DeEtte Anderton started writing in 2007 when her son challenged her to get involved in NaNoWriMo. The manuscript sat untouched with several others until January of 2012 when a good friend encouraged her to seek publication. The Christmas Visitors is her first short story, and her current novel, Victory is also her first.

DeEtte spent much of her childhood playing the piano, clarinet, and guitar, reading, and making up stories. She was active in Girl Scouts, which gave her a wide variety of experiences. While in college, she was on the University of Utah Synchronized Swim team, and taught year-round camping and survival skills for Girl Scouts. She has spent many years working with people with disabilities.

Originally from the State of Utah in the U.S.A., currently DeEtte lives in New England where she writes full time and works on the editing team of Master Koda Select Publishing. Her other interests include swimming, crocheting, reading, traveling, history, and her grandchildren. In addition, this devoted mother of six and grandmother of twelve has been a concerned participant in dog rescue services for many years.   

Links:

Victory:  http://amzn.com/B00AJ9QEKM

             http://amzn.co.uk/B00AJ9QEKM

The Christmas Visitors: http://amzn.com/B00ACNOXOY

                                 http://amzn.co.uk/B00ACNOXOY

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/DeEtte-Beckstead/e/B00ADDW94Y/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1

AUTHORdB Page:  http://www.authorsdb.com/index.php/component/content/article/8-authors/66-deette-beckstead

Blog:  https://deetteanderton.wordpress.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DeEtteBecksteadAuthor 

Twitter:  @DBAnderton

Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2207218-deette-beckstead

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I'd like to thank DeEtte Anderton for stopping by. I read a sample of Victory and really enjoyed it. Hopefully, I will get around to reading it (my to-read list is getting longer and longer). If you enjoyed DeEtte Anderton's work, support her by leaving a review from wherever you bought her book. As always, thanks for reading.