Category: Meet the Author

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Meet the Author with James Lingard

Author interview James Lingard

Hello Lovelies,

With all the updating and work on the website, then the mess with having to switch servers, I am finally back to creating amazing new content! I have a book review coming up next week or the week after by this delightful author James Lingard. He shared his story with me after we chatted on Linkedin and I love historical fiction, especially that which delves into the female perspective. I was thrilled to read The Girl who Disappeared and am delighted to introduce you to James Lingard today.

Hello, How are you?

Great, thank you. The lockdown has enabled me to get on with writing.

I’ve found it great for my productivity as well. Small blessings, right? Tell my readers a bit more about you.

I spent my career as a lawyer specialising in insolvency and banking law with considerable success. My book Lingard’s Bank Security Documents has now achieved its 7th edition. When I retired, I took up writing to entertain people, starting with a nonfiction history book Britain at War 1939 to 1945. The Girl Who Disappeared is largely fact based on my mother’s experiences.

Wow, what a fun and fascinating career. When did you start writing?

I published my first article in a legal magazine whilst still a University student. Later I was asked to write three full length law books on subjects I specialised in.

There aren’t many like us who cross non-fiction and fiction. So glad you’ve joined our ranks! Who is your favorite fictional character and why?

Harry Potter because the plots are totally removed from reality and purely entertaining.

Love Harry Potter. I really love the layers. While it can be purely entertainment, it also shares a lot of insight into the human condition. How do you write your books?

First, I put chapter headings, one per page, in a note book. Then, as events occur to me, I note them under the appropriate chapter. This base is subject to radical revision as the plot developes.

Ah, a plotter. I bet you pull that from your non-fiction years! I did too when I first started writing fiction. Now, I plot a bit less and let the muse speak a bit more. What is one great lesson you have learned as a writer?

No writing takes place until the outline is completed. This avoids writer’s block. The enemy is a blank page. If a chapter gets difficult, scrub it and move on.

Great advice! Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what music inspires you?

Yes. Andre Rieu but anything which is melodious.

What is your favorite ice cream?

Vanilla with honeycomb

Ooh, I’ve heard of this flavor but never had it. Will have to remedy that! Coffee, tea, or hot cocoa?

Tea

What are you working on now?

A thriller only loosely based on fact

What makes your voice unique from other writers?

The Girl Who Disappeared is fact based on my mother’s exciting life.

I think that is so cool that you chose to tell your mother’s story. I look forward to sharing my thoughts on The Girl Who Disappeared soon.

If you’ve enjoyed getting to know James here, be sure to give him a follow on your platform of choice.

Twitter: @Jamesbat

Facebook james.lingard3

Linkedin JamesLingard

Until next time,

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Meet the Author with Chandra Trulove Fry

Chandra Trulove Fry

Hello Lovelies,

We have another exciting author interview for you! Today we are meeting with Chandra Trulove Fry, a bibliophile bookdragon who lives with her tech wizard husband and two youngest minions. Chandra is an author, personal assistant, promotions manager, and graphic artist who enjoys reading, writing, gardening, and time with friends.

Let’s get to the interview:

How are you?

I am good! Though I shall say that I am at most times a bit of a headless chicken. 😉

Tell us something unique about you:

I am the oldest of ten kids

Wow, that must’ve been fun. What’s the most inspiring part of where you live?

I live in a valley surrounded by gorgeous mountains. The cloud formations are astounding and we have lovely sunsets.


What one person from history would you like to meet and why?

Nicola Tesla…he intrigues me

If there was one thing you could do to change the world, what would it be?

Oh man…I don’t see that changing the world is what needs happening but rather changing the person within the world and that can only be up to the individual themselves. My part is to be a living example that will inspire others to be a better version of themselves.

When did you start writing?

I started back in 2017. I met a fellow indie author then and we kind of fell into the career together.

How do you write your books?

I’m a bit of a pantser. I write whenever I can find the time to do so. I am trying out planning my stories and it does seem to help. We shall see.

What is one great lesson you have learned as a writer?

Never Give Up! There is always room for improvement and you will always grow along the way.

That is a great lesson for all things in life, to be sure. What is one thing you hate about being a writer?

Never having enough time to write! It just seems like something always gets in the way.

If you could never write again, what would you do?

Read! I would read a lot.

What is your favorite word?

Dude

That is one of my favorites as well. It is completely genderless and versatile! Who is your favorite fictional character and why?

Rumpelstiltskin…inspired by the show Once Upon A Time. He’s my kind of handsome. 😉

Where do you find inspiration?

In books I read, nature, movies

Who inspires your writing and why?

My husband. He is truly my muse. If I get stuck or need an idea he is always there for me.

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

When I am able to I do! Gothic Rock seems to be the most inspiring for me to write to.

Love it! What is your greatest influence as a writer?

Seeing Other Authors Succeed

What is your favorite genre to read? To write?

Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Paranormal, Dystopian. I write in these genres as well.

Now to lighten things up a bit. What is your favorite ice cream?

I’m lactose intolerant so what I eat instead is Ice Cream made with Almond or Cashew Milk. My favorite flavor is Butter Toffee.

Butter Toffee… Yum…. Coffee, tea, or hot cocoa?

Coffee! I can’t live without it!

You are in good company in the writing community for sure! Which character has etched it’s way into your heart and why?

My character Lilly in my book The Journey of Malchus. I fashioned her after a character in a video game and my daughter’s personality. Everyone loves her!

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?

Europe! My ancestry is rooted deep there and I would love to be able to visit my roots.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you go?

A Castle somewhere in Europe, though I am quite happy in my home.

Which book has had the biggest impact on your writing and why?

The Falcon and the Serpent by Cheryl S. Smith. To this day it has been a book that speaks to me with it’s intricate story and amazing underlying message.

What writing quote fuels you?

“You can make anything by writing.” –C.S. Lewis
 

What makes your voice unique from other writers?

That’s a good question…I’ll let you know if I ever figure it out. Lol

What genre do you wish you could write?

I dabble in a lot of genres but one that I seem to struggle with is thriller/suspense

What are you working on now?

The Retribution of Lilly: Zombie Whisperer Chronicles Book 2

What is the current book you are promoting?

If the Shoe Fits

What inspired this book?

It started out as a story in a Modern Day Fairytales Anthology and I liked it so much that I decided to make it a solo.

If you could choose who would direct the movie of your book, who would you choose?

Jerry Bruckenheimer

If your story were made into a movie, who would you cast and why?

Allie DeBerry would be a great actress to play Ella Cinders. And Ryan Guzman would be a good fit for Charmaine Princeton

Who is your favorite character in your book and why?

I love Charmaine Princeton. He’s got a lot of charm. hehe

Who is your least favorite character and why?

Oh man… it’s a tossup between Charmaine’s co-workers or the guys who bullied him in high school.

Thanks so much for coming by, Chandra! 

If you’re are interested in taking a peak inside If the Shoe Fits, check out the Amazon Lookinside

or you can purchase it from your favorite retailer

Want to get to know Chandra and her other books better? You can Friend her on Facebook, Follow her on Bookbub, or on Twitter

Please share the links to your top three social media channels.

Until next time, 

Keep Reading!

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Meet the Author: JD Estrada

Meet the Author JD Estrada

Hello Lovelies, 
I am so honored to introduce you to an icon that I’ve been following for some time, MR. JD Estrada. JD is a fantastic author and poet, as well as an indomitable force for good in the indie community and a great entertainer over on his youtube channel. I’m honored to have him over to meet you all and talk about his newest books Given to Fly. So let’s get this party started! 
Hello, JD. Tell my readers a bit more about you.

Greetings and salutations to the amazing Angell with two Ls 🙂 Firstly thank you for having me on your blog. As for yours truly, I’m your friendly neighborhood JD Estrada: a Puerto Rico indie author whose path in life currently has him living in Atlanta, Georgia but whose heart shall always reside in the Caribbean.
People will most certainly know me as 00 Bananas, a sock fiend, a tea lover, a bodyboarder, a gamer, and of course a writer. I’m all of those things and much more, because why limit yourself? Does that mean I also dabble in music? Well of course I do, even though that was a very telegraphed question and response if only to cling on to that rockstar dream a bit longer. But at the end of the day, I’m a writer… and I prefer the title writer to author, because I truly love the act of writing and get as much joy from writing a long handwritten letter as I do in Estrada Crates, as I do from crafting a punchy poem, writing a review on Yelp or Google, or diving headfirst into my soul well to see what stories I can fish.

For those who aren’t familiar with 00 Bananas and need a good laugh, go google it. We’ll wait, and you won’t regret it one bit! Also, I was so excited the day I saw JD playing guitar on Youtube. I’d known him almost a year at this point and had no idea he was musically gifted! Alright, sorry, little distracted fangirling.  Back to the professional interview *Ahem*
What is your favorite genre?
ALL of them. I shall never want to limit myself and shall always adore a good challenge. The way I see it, tackling different genres lets me get to know myself even further and I’ve never wanted to be an ace at anything and would much rather be a Joker card in the deck, fitting myself into whatever context I may find myself in to get the perfect hand.
That is a great reference. I think I will definitely start calling myself a joker instead of a Jack of all genres, lol. But I agree, it’s all about exploring new opportunities. I’ve watched too many great authors get pigeonholed by an industry and their stories become so formulaic. Gag. What is your favorite ice cream?
Such a desperately difficult question to answer though I think it is most likely mint chocolate chip, but from my ice cream choices in my last outings, you might guess otherwise. Here’s the thing, I LOVE trying different flavors and am all about expanding and exploring my palate as much as possible. Sometimes I’m pleasantly surprised and sometimes I get some GREAT material for stories.
Ah, yes! Mint Chocolate chip is my go-to when I’m not sure what to try, but I rarely meet and ice cream I don’t like! Coffee, tea, or hot cocoa?
I have one coffee a day, only drink Cocoa made with Chocolate Cortés (look it up, trust me), and drink as much tea as my body can handle (anywhere from 2-6 cuppas in a day.)
Who inspires your writing?
SO many people. From authors, to musicians, films I’ve seen, and life. Everything inspires my writing and I love basing characters off people I know. In terms of authors, the list is long and includes familiar names like Rowling, Pratchett, Poe, Lee, Lovecraft, Gaiman, Barrie, Wells, Moore, Herbert, Bukowski, and Adams but it also includes fellow indie authors who have my love and respect like Christie Stratos, Anaïs Chartschenko, Joe Compton, Joshua Robertson, LF Oake, AL Mabry, Rebekah Jonesy, Robert Cano, Christina Striggas, Maricel Jiménez, Francisco Muñiz, Michael J. Elliot, Jason Greensides, and even an angel with two Ls. There are several others, don’t get me wrong, but the list would even be longer and the point is that I admire my author friends not just because they’re good humans, but because damn can they write a good book 😀
Aw, blushing to be included on such a great list! Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what music inspires you?
I ALWAYS listen to music when I write and every book has the soul of several albums in its pages. For my latest novel, Given to Fly, the music playing included Pearl Jam, Elbow, Eels, Blind Melon, Tori Amos, Days of the New, Jackie Wilson, Karen O, Fleet Foxes, and some other bands, but main influences the first two 😀
What is your greatest influence as a writer?
My desire to create something different. I ALWAYS have as a huge mission to write something that’ll have people wondering where the hell that came from.
Ha, ha, or thinking, “damn, that was… just… wow. Need a minute.” I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s thought that while reading your work! If you could choose who would direct the movie of your book, who would you choose?

​​ 
Given to Fly is the first novel I’ve actually written with that in mind. Hayao Miyazaki. I honestly did everything I could to write something worthy of being drawn in 2-d animation by the legend himself or anyone from the amazing Studio Ghibli. I own most Miyazaki films and have been floored by the attention to detail and love in making each movie. This novel is a love letter to many things I hold dear in my life, including his work and if the book ever got to be translated to Japanese, I would love for him to read it and know what his work means to my life.
Aw, that is amazing. We all need to go tell @Miyazaki that on Twitter. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?
I would want to go EVERYWHERE. Some people want fame and fortune for materialistic reasons. For me, I would love success to have money so my family is well taken care of and to visit and meet in person every wonderful person I’ve met through my writer journey.
I can’t wait for us to meet one day. Hopefully soon if I get to head back east next summer. *Fingers crossed* What is next in your career?
There are plenty of things on the plate as tends to be the case, but I’m most excited by two projects. One is the third and final installment of my Human Cycle series due out next year and the other is a collaboration with an amazing friend Cate Evans, an author from the UK whom I’m working with on a collab that’s the polar opposite of Given to Fly. For now though, I’m just happy to bring out book #13 into the world and hope people enjoy reading as much as I enjoyed writing 😀
I am sure we will. Thank you so much for joining us, JD! 

Want to learn more about JD Estrada? Don’t miss out on his website JDestradawriterWant to get to know him better and participate in the Sock Family Fun, 00 Bananas, and all his other awesomeness? then you have to follow him on Twitter, instagram or Facebook, just search for @JDEstradawriter. Want to see which one of those 13 books of his you should try? Find them at Libros 787 
Until next time, 

Keep Reading! 

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Meet the Author with Lucy Palmer

Meet the author Lucy Palmer

Hello Lovelies,
 We have a fun interview today with Lucy Palmer, an English writer and poet living in California. Her poetry has appeared in By&By Poetry, The Pickled Body, Unbroken, and others. Her flash fiction has appeared in The Radvocate and is forthcoming in the Cherry Tree Journal. She was nominated for Best Small Fictions 2017. Her story, Open Window, is featured in Mirrors & Thorns (See my review here) and man was it dark! I just knew I wanted to introduce you to this amazing woman. So let’s get to it. 

​​Hello Lucy, welcome to An Angell’s Life. Have a seat, no need to be nervous. Let’s start off with an easy question. On a cold day: coffee, tea, cocoa or something a bit stronger, and why?

Well, as a Brit, every day means tea with milk and sugar, generally in large quantities! If it were particularly cold, I may include an Irish whisky for its body-warming (and mind-rousing!) properties.

Nice! Well played. If your story were made into a movie, who would you cast?

​​ There are only two characters in my story—a husband and a wife. The husband is purer than pure—so pure, in fact, that he doesn’t have a shadow. That may be hard to cast, so perhaps I’d just go for someone that’s usually cast in the golden boy roles, such as Brad Pitt? The wife is much darker and more complex…I recently really enjoyed Winona Ryder in Stranger Things, and I think she’s be wonderful for the part!

I LOVE Winona, especially in Stranger Things. I agree, she would be amazing. I don’t think I’ve ever seen her and Brad on screen together before, so that would be very interesting. Where do you come up with your stories?

I write very short fiction of under 1000 words, so I don’t bother with plotting and character development beforehand…I tend to just see where it goes. The stories are usually inspired by things I’ve heard…my latest story was inspired by my teenage son who told me he’d learned in science that human beings can’t really touch each other, as we all have an invisible force field round us. That made me incredibly sad, and hence a new story was born!


Who is your favorite author?

There are many authors I love, but Murakami, George Saunders (for his short stories), Ali Smith, Kirsty Logan and Rikki DuCornet currently top the list.

I always find the “favorite author question” the hardest to answer as well, lol. Tell us something unique about you:

I can play a duet on two recorders…one in my mouth and one in my nose. Yeah, talented lady! Haha.

That is quite talented! Well, thanks so much for joining us today, Lucy. If you want to learn more about Lucy and her writing adventures, follow her at any of these places:   Facebook  Twitter

This is just one of many very fun stops on the Mirrors & Thorns tour, so be sure to go check out some of the other author interviews, character spotlights, and author fun.
Until next time, 

Keep Reading!

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Meet the Author with Deanie Humphrys-Dunne

Deanie Humphrys-Dunne

Hello Lovelies, 

​​Today we are meeting a lovely new author, Deanie Humphrys-Dunne. Deanie Humphrys-Dunne is an award-winning children’s author with six books published. My Life at Sweetbrier-A Life Changed by Horses, Charlie the Horse, Charlene the Star, Charlene the Star and Hattie’s Heroes, and Charlene the Star and Bentley Bulldog.

All of her fictional books are beautifully illustrated by her sister, Holly Humphrys-Bajaj. Deanie’s true story, Tails of Sweetbrier, won the silver medal in the Feathered Quill Book Awards, a finalist in the CLIPPA, honorable mention in the Purple Dragonfly Awards, and the silver medal in the Reader’s Favorite Book Awards. Her new book, My Life at Sweetbrier-A Life Changed by Horses, won the gold medal in the New Apple Summer e-book awards, as well as the silver medal in the Reader’s Favorite contest. Deanie’s fictional stories are told by the animal characters. Note: Deanie’s first award-winning book, Tails of Sweetbrier, has been replaced by her new book: My Life at Sweetbrier-A Life Changed by Horses.

Deanie believes the message that perseverance is the key to accomplishing amazing things is one that can benefit every child. Through her inspiring, real life and fictional works, children will learn that anything is possible if they refuse to give up on their dreams. We can attain much more than we ever imagine by never quitting. Children will be reminded that tenacity is the key to success. They will see proof that obstacles can be overcome and that quitting only guarantees failure.


Deanie wants to be a positive influence to children. She loves to write entertaining stories that emphasize important values such as; never giving up, setting goals, and working together to realize great things. Her goal is to write books that build self-esteem and confidence in children. She works tirelessly to write books that would appeal to children and also teach them valuable lessons, presented in an engaging manner.


Deanie is a graduate of the Institute of Children’s Literature. She has been featured on several author websites including TheAuthorsShow.com, and blogtalkradio.com with authors JD Holiday and Annette Rochelle Aben. She has been honored with numerous blogging awards and nominations. Deanie was recently featured on WTNH.com/CT Style television program to discuss her books.

Without further ado, on to

The Interview


 What is the current book you are promoting?
The title of the book is My Life at SweetbrierSubtitle: A Life Changed by Horses On a cold day: coffee, tea, cocoa or something a bit stronger, and why? Coffee, no matter what kind of day it was. I don’t think my brain would function well without it. It’s common in my family. My mom didn’t like to converse before her coffee.😊
What inspired this book? My objective is to inspire children to reach for the stars. With this in mind, I thought my personal story would be a good way to reach that goal. It’s a story about beating the odds and realizing your dreams.


What is one great lesson you have learned as a writer? I’ve learned it’s important to revise and edit your work, even when you are fairly confident it’s ready for publication. In addition, ask beta readers and an editor to check it out. Sometimes it’s hard for authors to recognize their own mistakes.
What is your next project? My sister, Holly Humphrys-Bajaj, illustrates my fictional stories. We are working on our first picture book. It’s a cute, entertaining, story about a little tractor named Wilbur.
Want to learn more about Deanie’s books? Visit her website ChildrensBooksWithLifeLessons. Want to see what Deanie likes to read? Visit her on Goodreads. Want to keep up with her books? Follow her on Amazon. 
Learn more about My Life at Sweetbriar with Amazon Look Inside

Until next time, 
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Meet the Author with Angelina Singer

Angelina Singer

Hello Lovelies, 

​​Today our guest is Angelina Singer, a YA author with a romantic comedy, “Just Like a Pill”, as well as book one of a dystopian science fiction series “The Sorting Room” available for purchase on Amazon. In addition to her writing career, Singer is a college undergrad studying English, Music, and of course, Creative Writing.  
In her spare time she enjoys crocheting (with a portfolio of work available for purchase on Instagram @asinger320), as well as mentoring younger music students at a local music store, where she has been studying guitar for nearly a decade. She views her writing as a way to simultaneously escape from and embrace reality. Follow her on Facebook @AngelinaSingerAuthor for exciting updates, exclusive content, and giveaways.

Thanks for joining us, Angelina. Who is your favorite character in your book and why?

​​That would have to be Maxx Howard, the incredibly attractive guitarist in Just Like a Pill. He’s a complex character, and has a lot of heart and talent (besides just being extremely hot). He treats Scarlett so well, and I never get tired of seeing him tell off his clingy girlfriend – it’s epic… and he may or may not be inspired by a real-life dude (scandalous, I KNOW). 

Lol, so scandalous! What inspired this book?

Well that’s a loaded question… but basically, just a good old fashioned crush. Makes for a great YA novel though 😉

Good old crushes and our imaginations make for many a great book, for sure. If your book were made into a movie, who would you cast?

Easy – Maxx Howard would be played by Leo Howard (that cute guy who played Jack on that Disney XD show, “Kickin It”), and Scarlett Larson would be played by Hayley Williams of Paramore. It’s one of my favorite bands, and for a while Hayley rocked bright neon red hair, so she would fit the part of Scarlett perfectly!

What is your next project?

Currently, I am working on The Upperworld Series, a sci-fi fantasy trilogy questioning how people are assigned to their lives, and what would happen if there was a fluke in the system! Book 1, The Sorting Room, is available now, and book 2 is slated to be released sometime in early to mid 2018.

Ooh, can’t wait to learn more! Who is your favorite author?

Do I have to pick just one!?! I have a few, but the ones that have influenced my writing the most would be Suzanne Collins (The Hunger Games), John Green (Paper Towns, The Fault in Our Stars), and Tony DiTerlizzi (The Search for WandLa). Each of these authors influenced me quite a bit through their unique and powerful writing styles, like the love stories in John Green’s books, the bravery and valor that Suzanne Collins writes about, and the magical worlds that Tony DiTerlizzi so effortlessly crafts. I actually got to meet Tony at a book signing event this past April, which was very cool (see attached image).

I can totally relate, Angelina. I have a hard time picking favorites too. Well, thank you so much for joining us on An Angell’s Life of bookish goodness. 

​Are you excited to learn more about Angelina?  Visit her blog and to learn more about her books and get notice when new books release, be sure to follow her Amazon Author Profile.
Until next time, 
Keep Reading!

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Meet the Author with Kelly Charron

Meet the Author with Kelly Charron

Hello Lovelies, 
I am pleased to introduce you to Kelly Charron, the author of YA and adult horror, psychological thrillers and urban fantasy novels. All with gritty, murderous inclinations and some moderate amounts of humor. She spends far too much time consuming true crime television (and chocolate) while trying to decide if yes, it was the husband, with the wrench, in the library. Kelly has a degree in English Literature as well as a Social Work degree. She has worked as a hairstylist, youth outreach worker, and education assistant. She lives with her husband and cat, Moo Moo, in Vancouver, British Columbia.

​​ Thanks so much for joining us on An Angell’s Life of Bookish Goodness, Kelly. 

Thanks so much for having me. 

Let’s jump right in. On a cold day: coffee, tea, cocoa or something a bit stronger, and why?

Oh tough one since I drink coffee, tea and cocoa, but I’d have to go with coffee with sugar and cream or better yet a flat white from Starbucks with some chocolate sprinkles on top. If I’m at home and I’m in need of an extra kick I may add a little Bailey’s in the coffee. I love the taste of coffee and always drink it when I’m writing, brainstorming and plotting so I definitely associate writing with the taste and smell, which I think helps me dive into the work faster. In the evenings, I’ve been known to have some white wine on hand.

I love Starbucks! My guilty pleasure is a hot mochaccino without cream. What is the current book you are promoting?

I’m currently promoting the second book in my Pretty Wicked series

​​WICKED FALLOUT. It is a psychological thriller that follows the main character, a twenty-seven-year-old woman named Ryann Wilkanson, who is in a maximum-security prison for claiming multiple victims when she was just fifteen years old in her attempt to become a serial killer. Wicked Fallout puts you in Ryann’s head once again but also features the point of view of a forensic psychiatrist named Dr. Nancy Clafin, who is given the arduous task of assessing Ryann when new evidence comes to light that may allow Ryann a commuted sentence. 

Wow. What a story concept. Who is your favorite character in your book and why?


Ryann because she is so fun to write but also to read. When I reread some of her scenes I chuckle at how positively snarky and evil she is. I love villains, so writing a whole book from the villain’s point of view was extremely satisfying. Ryann is a fresh voice with a compelling and unique perspective on life, people and the world. We know why heroes do many of the things they do, what is lesser known is the complex motivations behind a villain. I was interested in exploring the psychology, motivation, and emotion (or lack thereof) of a psychopath/sociopath in a way that we often don’t get in storytelling. If we get inside the villain’s head, it is often short lived or superficial, so I wanted to develop a villainous character where the reader could be fully immersed inside their psyche for a whole new experience. She also employs quite a bit of snarkiness, sarcasm and wit, which allows for a rather dark character to also have lighter moments.

I like that you aren’t taking the approach of some of the more recent Disney adaptations where they try to make the villain NOT a villain. Who is your favorite fictional character and why?

Tough one. Hannibal Lecter (Sir Anthony Hopkins portrayal only) is a favorite because he is so charming and charismatic. We loathe him but are fascinated with him and are compelled to see what he does next. On the side of hero, I’d have to say I love Neville Longbottom because who doesn’t love a sweet underdog. He starts out fearful, clumsy and overwhelmed and ends the series saving the day! He’s the one in the crowd to stand up to Voldemort in the end—his tenacity, courage and strength are so admirable. He’d go to the ends of the earth for what is right. I also love everything Alice in Wonderland, especially the Mad Hatter.

I love Neville too. The unlikely heroes are always the best. Where do you come up with your stories?

​​ Inspiration for my stories often comes from television and movies. I’m a very visual person and seeing the way a story unfolds onscreen (the lighting, sounds, setting, angles, framing etc…) creates a mood which often draws me so completely in that I want to create a similar feeling in a story. I love being scared and watching thrillers and horror, so I naturally want to evoke that same sense of fear and dread with words. I also often watch true crime television and documentaries which always get me analyzing and breaking apart the various aspects of cases. Why a particular victim was chosen? How the killer started down that road—what was childhood like/what are their defining characteristics and personality traits/who were they pretending to be versus who they really were? Even to dissecting why a detective chose that line of work. I’m always studying why people do the things they do and I find it especially compelling if they do something quite differently than the rest of society would expect or relate to, so I take those initial seeds and play with it, often with a lot of “what if” questions and scenarios, and come up with plot ideas.

So cool. Well, thanks for coming out and sharing yourself with us. I am definitely looking forward to Pretty Wicked. Looks like an awesome read! Do you want to learn more about Kelly Charron and her series? 
Connect with her:Website: kellycharron.com
Twitter: @Kellymcharron
Facebook: Kelly Charron Author
Goodreads: Kelly Charron

Until next time, 

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Meet the Author with Nancy Christie

Nancy Christie

Hello Lovelies,

I am so delighted to introduce you to a wonderful woman whom I have been following for quite some time. Nancy Christie is the author of Rut-Busting Book for Writers (Mill City Press), Traveling Left of Center and Other Stories (Pixel Hall Press) and The Gifts Of Change (Atria/Beyond Words). Her short stories and essays have appeared in numerous print and online publications. A professional writer based in Ohio, Christie provides copywriting services to agencies, businesses and organizations nationwide through her company, Professional Writing Services. A member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors, Florida Writers Association and Short Fiction Writers Guild (SFWG), Christie teaches writing workshops at conferences, libraries and schools. She is also the founder of the annual “Celebrate Short Fiction” Day.

​​Hello, Nancy, welcome to An Angell’s Life of Bookish Goodness. How are you?

Wishing I had a personal assistant or publicist or, at the very least, someone to clean my house! Seriously, like most writers and authors, I am simultaneously focusing on multiple tasks: completing copywriting projects for clients, working on my upcoming “Celebrate Short Fiction” Day event and promoting my newest book—the latter involving events in both Ohio and Florida!

I totally understand wanting a Personal Assistant. You are definitely very busy! What is the current book you are promoting?

That would be Rut-Busting Book for Writers—my newest baby! Rut-Busting Book for Writers, offers strategies to get you unstuck, along with inspiring words and proactive suggestions from other writers who have “been there and done that” and are now willing to share their knowledge and experience. By following the tips in this book, you’ll spend less time trapped in your particular writing rut and more time following your creative passion!

I remember when you asked me for permission to use a quote from our interview a few years ago to go in the book. What inspired this book?

​​ The book is an outgrowth of my popular “Rut-Busting” Workshop for Writers that I’ve been offering for several years. Every time I presented it, attendees asked if there was a book that went with it. So this past April, after I finished the edits to one of my novels and my second short story collection, I set myself a goal to have the manuscript drafted and ready to send to my editor, Ann Henry, by June 1st. I was a little behind schedule but I got it to her, made the recommended changes, then turned it over to Mill City Press for production.

What is your next project?

I actually have two in mind. The first involves my second short story collection, Peripheral Visions and Other Stories. I have plans to bring it out next year—either traditionally published or with Mill City—and I’m very excited about it! The other is my novel-in-progress, Reinventing Rita. One of the publishers I had submitted it to wants to see if after I complete some revisions, so with the help of Dawn Reno Langley, I’m going to make some major improvements that I hope will pass muster!

If you could never write again, what would you do?

I’ve no idea. Being a writer is so much a part of me—it is me—that I can’t envision a life where I am not writing. I started writing in second grade and have pretty much kept at it. And those times in my life when, for one reason or another, I wasn’t writing or couldn’t write, were dark days indeed. I like doing other things, but there is nothing that is as necessary for me as writing.

Thank you for joining us, Nancy, and congrats on Rut-busting book for Writers. I can’t wait to read it. Want to take a peek inside?

Want to learn more about Nancy? Visit her website at www.nancychristie.com

Find her on Social Media:

Amazon Author page

Facebook Page

LinkedIn

Twitter: @NChristie_OH

Goodreads

And to learn more about her Short Fiction Celebration Day Here.

Until next time, 

Keep Reading!

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Meet the Author with Angela Hausman

Angela Hausman

Hello Lovelies,

I am excited to introduce you to an awesome lady and her super series! The Buried Ladies series is the first fiction written by Angela Hausman since creating a highly acclaimed (by fellow 6th graders, teachers, and family) science fiction series as a teen.

​​ Dr. Angela Hausman was born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania and later received undergraduate and MBA degrees from the University of Pittsburgh before completing a Marketing PhD at the University of South Florida. Over her career, she lived in many places and met diverse people, which she filed away to create her plots and characters.

Angela currently lives in Washington, DC, where she works as a marketing consultant and teaches marketing at George Washington and University of Maryland. She writes in her home office, where various dogs and cats block her in until she’s finished the day’s writing quota. Let’s get to know her a bit better. 

Hello, Angela! Welcome to An Angell’s Life of Bookish Goodness. Who is your favorite character in the Buried Ladies Series and why?

I really like Sarah, the CIA agent in my book. Maybe she’s a little like me – or who I wish I were. She’s smart and she’s willing to kick ass and take names. She doesn’t care about the rules if they keep her from getting her job done. I love writing strong female characters because women need more female characters to look up to.

Love it! Strong females are a weakness of mine. Can’t wait to read Buried Ladies series! If your book were made into a movie, who would you cast?

I’d cast someone like Chris Pratt or Channing Tatum as Jacob because they’re hot and I’d get to work closely with them. All things being equal, I prefer to surround myself with hot men. For Sarah, I’d want someone like Rooney Mara from the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo because she knows how to kick butt.

Ah, I love Rooney Mara! Dessert: cake or pie and why?  

Actually, I like them both – anything sweet for that matter. When I’m writing, I like to have little things I can pop in my mouth. It seems to stimulate my mind. My favorite is M&Ms, but I’d weight 500 lbs if I did that every day. So, I settle for nuts (especially cashews), popcorn, and pretzels. Sometimes, carrot sticks. When I’m really stuck, I’ll sit there and nibble until something comes to me.

Where do you come up with your stories?

My storied come to me, I don’t come up with them in the classical sense. I sit at my laptop and review the last bit I wrote and wait for the next bit. Characters start talking in my head and I write down what they say. When I’m cleaning or walking, whole scenes come to me and I struggle to remember them until I can write them down (I’m not good at carrying a notebook or something with me). Usually before I finish one book, I realize there are too many plot lines and save the rest for the next book.

Ha, ha, I do the same. I carry the notebooks, but I’m always losing them, or (like happened to me yesterday) I will realize I have extra notebooks with me, lol. What is one great lesson you have learned as a writer?

Be humble. Never argue with criticism. Feedback is incredibly important as a writer. If you have folks who are willing to read and give feedback, you’re incredibly lucky. You won’t agree with everything folks say, but be open to looking at your work objectively, through their eyes and see if you can make it better.
Great advice. Thanks so much for joining us, Angela! Are you loving this strong woman and her strong character as much as I am? Learn more from Angela’s Website


Until next time, 

Keep Reading!

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Meet the Author with Sondra Hicks

Meet Sondra Hicks

Hello lovelies, 

I am pleased to introduce you to one of the lovely authors I met during the 30 days, 30 authors event I did in September. Sondra Hicks was such a pleasure to work with and I knew you just needed to get to know her better too. Sondra Hicks is in her 30s, a mother of 4 wonderful children. She is an Independent Author of The Edge of Night Trilogy (Vampires), The Kloe & Gavin Adventures (Vampires, Werewolves and other Creatures) which she love to write.

​​Most would find her inviting, happy, and social. She loves to make people smile and even laugh. She was born in Portland, Oregon to two great parents. She lost her father over two years ago to COPD and she has been trying to kick the habit of smoking so she won’t follow in his footsteps. She grew up in Reno, Nevada. She tends to be online a lot and has her own Facebook Author page where she talks to her readers who enjoy her books, as well as a group called The Kloe & Gavin Adventures. She always enjoys communicating with readers and hearing what they have to say. She thinks communicating is key in any situation.

She has been known to dabble in different genres of writing such as Fantasy, Paranormal Thrillers, Fiction, Jokes, Poetry and soon sci-fi. Honestly, she doesn’t limit herself to one category of writing because she loves to branch out and poke her toes in the water of other genres. She hopes others enjoy her books as much as she did writing them. She currently has a German Shepard named Clara and two cats named Wil.e & Sebastian. Sondra Hicks is currently living in Olympia, Washington Let’s get to the interview!

Hello Sondra, welcome to An Angell’s Life. How are you?

I am doing great thank you for asking.

What is the current book you are promoting?

Currently my latest release is The Kloe & Gavin Adventures: London Moon

Who is your favorite character in your book and why?

I have to admit I am partial to Team Kloe.  She has many of my own traits like her heart leading her into trouble, kind, doesn’t like to hurt other people, she stands up for herself and she loves deeply. Most of all she protects her friends and family. She is also loyal to the core.

Kloe sounds awesome! Who is your least favorite character and why?

Well there are a few mostly I think it’s anyone who treated Kloe or Gavin with disrespect or intent to harm. Now if we were looking at num nuts then Peter would get the prize.

Num-nuts. Love it! What inspired this book?

I wrote Paris Moon before it and London Moon seemed logical since in Paris Moon Gavin mentioned he liked London.


That does seem logical. Love it when a book plays out so nicely. If you could have your book made into a movie, who would you want to direct it?

​​Honestly, I think I would want the directors from The Vampire Diaries & The Originals on board. They made that series amazing and I think they could do amazing things with my series whether it be a movie or two or even a TV series.

They did do a great job. Good choice. If your book were made into a movie, who would you cast?

I guess this is where I am different from some people. I don’t need huge names I just need eager talent that look the part and got the right acting chops. I mean who knows your movie could make the beginning of their career.

And that they have good chemistry, am I right? What is your next project?

I am working on The Kloe & Gavin Adventures: Family Moon. I am about half through it I think. You never know when you are writing where you are at. All I know is I am having fun writing it.

What is one place you would like to visit and why?

I would love to visit Paris or London actually. Probably more so Paris if it’s for research for the series. Those two locations have always been on my wish list so it’s no surprise I write about them. They have always held a certain fascination for me. London started with Torchwood and the Doctor Who television series. I fell in love with the sights and Paris well who wouldn’t fall in love with those amazing places.

Who is your favorite fictional character and why?

Actually my first favorite was before Kloe Rice it was her adopted mother Jessica Rice. I adored writing about her. The journey’s I had with her and her attitude towards her Jonathan was funny. I see some of her in Kloe and some of me in Jessica.

What one person from history would you like to meet and why?

I’ve never been a fan of history honestly but I guess Shakespeare would be interesting but the language would be a barrier a bit. He wrote some of the most famous plays and would love to know his thought process and about his play that never was published or performed. We have so many freedoms now compared to his time period. It would be interesting to compare and contrast things.


If there was one thing you could do to change the world, what would it be?

​​There are many things in the world that need fixing but if there was thing I had the power to fix it would be the ozone layer with the global warming so we could maybe have more time on this earth for future generations.

How do you write your books?

I actually just sit down and start writing. I let the characters tell me their story and if there is a huge event then I sit down an​​d break it up into a list and work through it but otherwise I fly by the seat of my pants.\

Who inspires your writing?

Well when I was young I was inspired by R.L. Stine (Fear Street), Christopher Pike and now that I am older its many indie authors

Where do you come up with your stories?

Sometimes my readers ask me to write about certain things and sometimes I just get random ideas. Sometimes I have read so many stories I look at what those stories left out and think that’s what I want to write about.

Who is your favorite author?

I have many actually some paranormal, urban fantasy and some well erotica. Alana Sapphire, R.L. Stine, Christopher Pike, John Patrick Kennedy, Amy Cecil, and so many others.

What is one great lesson you have learned as a writer?

Show don’t tell, so many have said this important and others have said its not but I find it is. I know you said one but another great one is research, research, research. I read other books and take in how they write using show don’t tell and it is amazing how this improves your writing.

What is one thing you hate about being a writer?

​​The only thing that bugs me is when your lying in bed all comfy at night and almost asleep and out of nowhere you get an idea or several for your book and there’s no notebook next to your bed and you have to get up to go write them down and then you cant get back to sleep and end up being up all night.

If you could never write again, what would you do?

I guess I would continue reading and beta reading

Tell us something unique about you:

I have a huge love for Doctor Who and accents.

What is your favorite word?

Favorite word wow umm I guess it would be “love” because it’s a greeting, a form of affection, and a way to describe something you like.


That is a great word. Well, thanks so much for joining us and sharing a bit about yourself. Readers can learn more about Sondra.

Or take a peek inside Paris Moon or London Moon.

Until next time, 

Keep Reading!