Monday, August 31, 2009

**INTERVIEW with Author JEFFREY A. ONORATO**

Author Of: "THE SIN OF ADDISON HALL"
Genre: Science Fiction/ Dystopian
INTERVIEW
Geri: What inspires you to write?
Jeffrey: The desire to tell a story that gets people to challenge
their value systems.
Geri: When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer?
Jeffrey: While in college. I didn't get too many "A"s in college,
however, I exceled in my creative writing and English
classes. Unfortunately, I was an Accounting major.
Geri: Who is your favorite author?
Jeffrey: Without a doubt, it is Orwell. My writing heavily reflects
this. I also consider my influences to be Vonnegut (WE)
and Huxley.
Geri: How many books have you written?
Jeffrey: I have written two. One has been published, and I am
putting the final touches on number two. I already have
started a sequel to my first novel, "THE SIN OF
ADDISON HALL."
Geri: How did you feel the first time you were published?
Jeffrey: The best word to describe my feeling was relief. Second
would be validation. I invested so much time writing
THE SIN OF ADDISON HALL, about five years, that
it would have been discouraging to not have it
published, all that time wasted. I felt validated in the
sense that writing is a solitary act, and I am never
sure if what I am creating is good. Apparently, some
thought so, or else it would not have been published,
but I am very interested in feedback from those who
decide to read it.
Geri: What factors place you in the comfort zone while writing?
Jeffrey: I write better in a busy environment. For instance,
I love writing in coffee houses. I tend to write, get up
and walk around, sit back down and write some more
and get up and walk around again, etc. I am not as
productive, when I write at home.
Geri: Did you have favorite books as a child?
Jeffrey: Animal Farm. That "novelette" is a perfect display
of Orwell's genius. That book entertained me as a
twelve year old, and has enough depth to entertain me
as an adult. I also liked Charlotte's Web. I tried to like
Black Beauty, because it had such beautiful cover
art, but I couldn't get into it.
Geri: Is writing a passion, a stress-reliever, or both?
Jeffrey: It started out as a passion, and it remains so, but an
ancillary benefit is stress relief.
Geri: If you were to write in a different genre, what would it be?
Jeffrey: History, non-fiction. I pull many historical references,
and use the underpinnings of historical events in my
writing.
Geri: Do you have any current work in progress?
Jeffrey: The work I am most excited about is a sequel to
"THE SIN OF ADDISON HALL." Although, I am
putting the finishing touches on a novel that lampoons
materialism.
Geri: It has been an honor, and with great pleasure to
interview you today. Thank you very much!
Jeffrey: You're welcome!

Sunday, August 30, 2009

**INTERVIEW with Author LISA PANKAU**

Author Of:
"Beyond Seduction: Loving Without Limits"
Genre: Self-Help/Relationships
INTERVIEW
Geri: Did a special person in your life inspire you
to write?
Lisa: My deceased husband was the inspiration
in my life for the book, but it was the
realization that so many people are
wasting their lives in relationships and
marriages that are unfulfilling for no "good"
reason. With some effort, couples can have
the "happily ever after" and experience
a love that goes beyond what we typically
know.
Geri: Who is your favorite author?
Lisa: I would have to say that John Randolph
is my favorite author.
Geri: What type of books do you enjoy writing?
Lisa: I enjoy writing about things that are real,
and that come from the soul, love on the
deepest levels, for example.
Geri: Describe how you felt the first time you
were published?
Lisa: When I realized what I had published, I
was in a dead heat, trying to "undo" what
I had just done. It was very exciting, but
also very unnerving to realize that I had
just published the "essence" of who I
truly am, and put it in circulation for the
world to read! The book details a very
personal and intimate part of who I truly
am, and the realization that I just shared
that, and made myself that vulnerable to
anyone reading my book was a bit
exasperating to say the least. I hope that
through my expressions of vulnerability,
and the reality of my writing, others will
open themselves to their partners in life,
and begin to experience love on deeper
and more profound levels.
Geri: Do you have goals set for your future in
your journey of writing?
Lisa: I greatly enjoy poetry, and am thinking
about some guides for newly-weds, or
those in pre-marital counseling. I have
discussed a book of poetry, but have not
made a final decision on that yet. I will
work on the other aspect of the guide this
year, and hopefully be ready for June
2010.
Geri: As a child, did you have favorite books?
Lisa: As a child, I was very studious, and
interested in human development. I
read my mother's psychology text books
for fun. I have always enjoyed human
nature, and learning, studying as much
as possible. I did not read much in the
way of fantasy of fiction, and still do not.
Geri: Do you have any current work in
progress?
Lisa: Yes, I am working on the guide book
for newly-weds now, and am
contemplating a class for married
couples, as well as a poetry book.
I have about fifteen poems already.
Geri: It has been a great pleasure, and an
honor to interview you today.
Thank you kindly!
Lisa: You're welcome!

**INTERVIEW with Author MELISSA M. WILLIAMS**

Author of: "IGGY THE IGUANA"
Genre: Children's Book/Juvenile Fiction/Chapter book/ ages 7-11
INTERVIEW
Geri: Who is your favorite author?
Melissa: I love the way Janet Fitch wrote White Oleander. The voice in that
book made it hard to put down. I will read any book written by the
Christian Author, Margaret Feinberg. I've had the privilege of
listening to her speak twice. I have to admit, it is always hard for me
to answer any question with the word favorite in it. I'm constantly
changing. (Books, Movies and Songs, Colors and Food, Cities.)
Geri: What type of books do you enjoy writing?
Melissa: I enjoy writing the children's chapter books right now, but in the
future, I know I will start writing for adults. My background is in
psychology, and professional counseling. So I want to eventually
write a book about following your dreams, while using spiritual
guidance as true inspiration.
Geri: Did you have favorite books as a child?
Melissa: I loved WHERE THE RED FERN GOES, MR. POPPER'S
PENGUIN'S, CHARLOTTE'S WEB, and THE BERENSTEIN
BEARS.
Geri: Did a special person in your life inspire you to write?
Melissa: I have had many role models, support, and strong people in my
life, who encouraged me to reach for the stars. My parents always
encouraged me to be a writer, since I started writing the IGGY THE
IGUANA story at the age of eight. My whole family has been very
creative. A friend of my family, Elaine Acker, gave me many words
of advice on how to finish a book project. Lastly, I have always loved
watching and listening to public speakers, particularly Christian
writers talk about their books, journey and inspiring others. It's
always a good idea to surround yourself with people who encourage,
and inspire.
Geri: How did you feel the first time you were published?
Melissa: Complete, like I could do anything! I felt like I had completed a
mental marathon.
Geri: Do you have current work in progress?
Melissa: Yes, the third book to the IGGY series, "TURTLE TOWN."
I will also be starting the Molly picture book series, and a
Short Story Anthology of stories written by kids, for kids.
Geri: Have you ever experienced writer's block?
Melissa: Yes, but not for long. In my opinion, writer's block is just an
excuse to procrastinate. If I feel bored, or not inspired, that
means I just need to get out of my familiar surroundings,
live a little and plug back into my creativity. I don't believe in
ruts. We must get out of the box, and move on,
because life is too short for excuses.
Geri: Thank you very much for your time. It has been an honor,
and a pleasure to interview you today.
Melissa: You're welcome!

Sunday, August 23, 2009

**INTERVIEW with Author ANDREW PARKER** Author of "PROPHECY OF POWER"

It is an honor to Interview author Andrew Parker today.
Author of: "PROPHECY OF POWER"
Genre: Religious Thriller
INTERVIEW
Geri: Has a special person in your life inspired you to write?
Andy: No, just something I've always wanted to do, and now hopefully
I will have a chance to get better-and-better.
Geri: How many books have you written?
Andy: This is my first novel, and I've already completed THE DOOMSDAY
PREACHERS, which is being edited at the moment.
Geri: Did you have favorite books as a child?
Andy: As a young child, my favourite book was Mr. Fox. As I got older,
I got into James Herbert Books.
Geri: Who is your favorite author?
Andy: My favourite author, close between Michael Connelly, and John
Grisham.
Geri: Do you have any current work in progress?
Andy: Yes, I've just started a serial killer with a twist, based on real life
murders that were never solved.
Geri: When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer?
Andy: Probably about ten years ago, but with work and marriage, etc., I
retired and then was divorced. Now, I have plenty of time.
Geri: If you were to write in a different genre, what would it be?
Andy: Tough question, history I think.
Geri: How did you feel the first time you were published?
Andy: Fantastic, but nervous, because you never know how people
will react to it, or what reviews you will receive.
Geri: Are your characters from real life?
Andy: No, all are fiction.
Geri: Have you ever experienced writer's block?
Andy: Not really, because I know where the story is going. Maybe,
sometimes, I may get stuck on a description of character.
Geri: Thank you very much for your time, and I wish you very much
success in your writing endeavors.
Andy: You're welcome!

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

**INTERVIEW with Author LYNDA COKER** Author of "THE OCEAN BETWEEN"

It is an honor, and a pleasure to interview Author Lynda Coker today.
Author of: "THE OCEAN BETWEEN"
Genre: Contemporary Romance/Multi-Cultural
INTERVIEW
Geri: Did a special person in your life inspire you to write?
Lynda: Yes. My daughter expressed a desire to write children's stories.
To encourage her, I told her I would write with her. Well, a
children's writer I'm not, not even close. So I began writing a
romance instead. I was hooked!
Geri: What type of books do you enjoy writing?
Lynda: Contemporary Romance and Sci-Fi with romantic elements.
Most of the stories in my head seem to fall into one of those
two categories.
Geri: Who is your favorite author?
Lynda: I don't really have a constant favorite. I'll give any writer a chance
to be my absolute favorite of the moment. I'm one of those rare
readers that doesn't choose a book by first looking for the works
of a certain author. The book cover grabs me first, then I read the
blurb. If those two things pull me in and the author delivers on
the promise of those two elements, that author has just become
my favorite.
Geri: Do you have any current work in progress?
Lynda: I'm currently shopping around a YA Sci-Fi series. And I'm working
on the follow-up book to THE OCEAN BETWEEN. This book,
CROSSING THE CHASM (Working Title), will follow the course
of Califar and Jessica, secondary characters in THE OCEAN
BETWEEN.
Geri: How did you feel at your first book-signing?
Lynda: Oh! I wish. I haven't had a signing yet, although, I have two
scheduled for later this summer. I'll have to send you an update
on that.
Geri: Thank you very much for your time. It has been a pleasure
meeting you on your social website, and I'm proud to be
part of it. Wishing you much success in your writing endeavors.
Lynda: You're welcome!

**INTERVIEW #2 With Author SAM MOFFIE**

Multipublished Author
Author of: "NO MAD" *****REVIEW
Author of: "THE ORGAN GRINDER AND THE MONKEY"
Contact Sam at: uel0409@aol.com
INTERVIEW
Geri: Do you plan on writing a book every year?
Sam: My plan is to try to write, and have that book published within one
year.
Geri: Have you written a series, or a sequel for one title?
Sam: No series, prequels, or sequels. One different story at a time.
Geri: What factors place you in the comfort zone while writing?
Sam: One-hundred percent concentration. All my chores, phone calls,
errands, and the day-to-day stuff is completed.
Geri: Have you written any books in different genres, or plan to?
Sam: No, I write fiction. Someday, I would like to write a non-fiction book.
Geri: After having your first book published, has it become easier to
write?
Sam: No question about it.
Geri: How do you promote your books?
Sam: Signings, readings, festivals, and contests. Also, reviews,
interviews, radio and newspaper are ways to promote.
In addition, word of mouth is another way to promote.
Geri: Do you write everyday?
Sam: I try to.
Geri: How many book-signings have you been to?
Sam: Four.
Geri: What has inspired you to write the most?
Sam: The fun of telling a story.
Geri: Is writing a passion, a stress-reliever, or both?
Sam: Writing is stressful! It's a passion. My kids call it a job.
Geri: It has been a great honor, and a pleasure to interview you
today. I wish you very much success in your writing
endeavors. Thank you!
Sam: You're Welcome!

Monday, August 10, 2009

*INTERVIEW with Author MARK O. CHAPMAN*

It is an honor to Interview Author Mark O. Chapman
Author of: "SCOUT SQUAD: Going Native"
INTERVIEW
Geri: Who is your favorite author?
Mark: I don't have one single favorite author, but among the top are
Ernest Hemingway, Orson Scott Card, Piers Anthony, and Mark
Helprin.
Geri: Has a special person in your life inspired you to write?
Mark: My parents both have supported me ever since I said I wanted to
be a writer.
Geri: How many books have you written?
Mark: Four books, but only one is published at this time.
Geri: Are your characters from real life, or from the imagination?
Mark: I would say that all my characters at some point are drawn from
people I know, but no one directly.
Geri: If you were to write in a different genre, what would it be?
Mark: I have ideas for more of a mainstream thriller, but my science
fiction ideas are backing up in my head.
Geri: Did you have favorite books as a child?
Mark: I always remember getting a book out of the library about a
hunting dog, but I cannot remember the name of the book. I know
I read it at least three times when I was in elementary school.
Geri: Do you have any current work in progress?
Mark: I am editing a fantasy novel, and I am working on the sequel
to "Scout Squad: Going Native."
Geri: As writers, we begin with a manuscript and end in promotions.
What was your most difficult task?
Mark: With the novel, it is tying off all the loose ends. When it comes
to promotions, it is getting the word out.
Geri: How did you feel at your first book-signing, or the first time
you signed your book?
Mark: My first book-signing was for my parents, it was a proud
moment. It feels great to have someone buy your book, and
ask for your signature.
Geri: When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer?
Mark: I was in high school and ever since, I have been keeping a
list, those who laughed, and those who didn't.
Geri: Thank you very much for your time. It has been a great
pleasure. Wishing you the best for 2009!
Mark: You're welcome!

*INTERVIEW with Author Stephanie Duckworth-Elliot*

I am honored today to Interview Author Stephanie Duckworth-Elliot.
Author of: "Poneasequa"
Genre: YA Native American, Multicultural, ages 8-13
INTERVIEW
Geri: What inspires you to write?
Stephanie: Inspiring children to overcome obstacles-like I did. Making a
difference-bringing the truth about my culture-Wampanoag
Culture out to the fore front of literature. I am tired of being
part of the "invisible" community of Native Americans in this
country-we are still here. I am very passionate about women
making their own life-not making excuses, and following your
dream.
Geri: Who is your favorite author?
Stephanie: Myself-but besides that I love Joe Bruchac, Catherine Anderson,
Cynthia Riggs.
Geri: If you were to write in a different genre, what would it be?
Stephanie: I actually write adult novels as well, besides young adult
children's books.
Geri: When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer?
Stephanie: I have been a story teller my whole life. I love to talk. I have
spoken in front of 1,500 before at a conference. When I was
nineteen, when my grandfather died, I promised him I would
write about our relationship, so it has been twenty years since
then and I have been writing.
Geri: Are your characters created from people you've known in
real life?
Stephanie: Yes, my grandfather, mckenzie-myself, my mother and my
brother.
Geri: Is writing a passion, a stress-reliever, or both?
Stephanie: Passion
Geri: Do you have any current work in progress?
Stephanie: Yes, I have started my own publishing company called:
Wampum Books, LLC. I am working on three collaborations
the first one called UPO'S Tale about a REZ dog with the
famous Vincent Black Hawk who directed Ghost Riders,
and my own adult novel: The Dream Catcher's Secret is
expected to come out in the Spring of 2010. It is about three
generations of unforbidden love, race and politics, set on the
Island of Martha's Vineyard and is based on my own life,
mother and grandfather with lots of intrigue and secrets
that are uncovered.
Geri: What factors place you in the comfort zone while writing?
Stephanie: Being quiet, I do most of my writing between 10pm-2am,
when the house is quiet. I have a six year old, and my husband,
so life is crazy during the day.
Geri: Thank you very much for your time. It was a pleasure!
Stephanie: You're welcome!