Tuesday, November 11, 2008

INTERVIEW With ALYSIA LYONS

It is with Great Pleasure, and an Honor to present Author Alysia Lyons to Today's Interview! Geri: When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer? Alysia: I started writing little stories at a young age, but I think the first time I realized that I wanted to be published was after I wrote "How The Hart Breaks." I had several friends read it, and each of them encouraged me to try. Geri: What type of books do you enjoy writing? Alysia: Mostly, I write contemporary romance. You might say, "I'm a hopeless romantic." Geri: Did a special person in your life inspire you to write? Alysia: My grandpa used to read to me when he would come to visit, and then later on, I would read to him. I think that has alot to do with my love for writing. Geri: Have you written any books based on a true life story? Alysia: I don't really write about true life, my stories are primarily fiction. However, I am inspired by things that happen in real life. Often, I will take an event that happened to me, or a friend, and imagine a different outcome. Geri: Who is your favorite author? Alysia: Nora Roberts, Anne Rice, JK Rowling. Geri: Are your characters created from people you've known in real life? Alysia: My characters are usually inspired by a scene, and how they would react in a certain situation. I build upon the characters personality from the way the character reacts to a certain scene. Geri: How many books have you written? Alysia: Roughly, around six books. Three of them are part of the Isabel Hart Series. This is my first published, but I'm planning to submit another one shortly. Geri: Where can your book be purchased? Alysia: Barnesandnoble, Borders, Target. Geri: Describe how you felt the first time you were published. Alysia: After I got published, and held my book in my hands, I remember watching Anne of Avonla. Towards the end, she gets her book published, and gets it in the mail. She was so excited, and felt accomplished. I turned to my mom, and said "I know how that feels!" Geri: Do you have any current work in progress? Alysia: I am currently finalizing the sequels to "How The Hart Breaks" for publication. Geri: What are some links to your websites? Alysia: http://www.alysialyons.com/ Geri: Do you have goals set for the future? Alysia: I have many goals pushing me forward. My next goal to reach is publishing the second novel in the Isabel Hart Series. Geri: Are you exactly where you want to be in your writing? Alysia: I'm farther along than I thought I'd ever be. I know that it takes some writers fifteen, or more years to get published, and some writers never do. So, I just feel blessed to be as far as I am. Geri: What can help authors reach their dream? Alysia: My only advice to aspiring authors is to not give up. You need thick skin in this business. Don't get discouraged by the word, "No!" Geri: Have you ever experienced writer's block? Alysia: I think every writer has experienced it at one time, or another. Geri: What can prevent writer's block? Alysia: I'm not sure that it's preventable. However, once you hit a rut, it's important to not stay there. Go back to whatever it is that inspires you, and try to be inspired again. Find a support group, a group of reader's who want to see what's coming next. Those are some of the ways I overcome it. Geri: As a child, did you have favorite books? Alysia: I loved reading the Nancy Drew books, and for the longest time, I thought Carolyn Keene was a real person, and I was in awe of how many books she's written. Geri: As a child, did you enjoy reading alot? Alysia: When I would get into a book, I would do very little else. Something happens when I read now. A lot of times, I just can't put the book down. Geri: If you had the opportunity to one day live the life of a famous author, who would it be? Alysia: J.K.Rowling. I'm very impressed with her mind, and her attention to detail in books. It's a trait that I admire, and aspire to. Geri: Many authors feel a sense of self-satisfaction, self-achievement after publishing a book, can you relate? Alysia: Absolutely, I don't think there's any feelings quite like being a published author. Geri: How do you balance occupation with writing? Alysia: It's difficult to balance my day job with writing, but writing is my passion, and people always make time to do their passion. Geri: How did you feel at your first book-signing? Alysia: It feels alot like being published for the first time, surreal. I have to remind myself that I didn't dream it, it really is my book that I'm signing. Geri: If you won the lottery tomorrow, would that change anything? Alysia: I would continue writing. It would give me more time. Geri: As writers, we begin with a manuscript, and end with promotions. What was your most difficult task? Alysia: Promotions, it was unfamiliar territory. I read books about it to learn some tricks, so that I knew what I was doing. I soon realized that a writer's job was to write, and promote. Geri: Some writer's listen to music, or focus on a particular scenery, can you relate? Alysia: I get into a zone where I don't hear, or see anything, other than what's happening in my story. Geri: If you were to publish a book in a different genre, what would it be? Alysia: I've always wanted to write a murder mystery. I'm also thinking about crossing over to the Christian Romance Genre. Geri: Thank you very much for your time. It's been a pleasure! Alysia: You're welcome!

Monday, November 10, 2008

**INTERVIEW With CHRISTOPHER BYRON**

I am Pleased to bring to Today's Interview, Author Christopher Byron, Author of "PUSH." Geri: When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer? Chris: I don't think that I did, professionally at least, until I was almost finished with this book. Writing was more a release, or hobby, until my wife read the first few chapters. She said, "I think you have something here." Now, I have a hard time imagining myself not writing. Geri: What type of books do you enjoy writing? Chris: I like to write what comes to mind. I don't see myself saying, "Nah, I won't write this!" "It's not science fiction." But, so far the most fun I have had is writing something that is almost believable, but just into the fantasy realm. Geri: Did a special person in your life inspire you to write? Chris: My mom was always telling us stories, and making up rhymes and songs as kids. She's been a great support, and now my little sister is writing too. Geri: Have you written any books based on a true life story? Chris: No, but I will sometimes take snipits of something that really happened to me, or someone I know, and rework it a little. I am thinking of writing a comedy, based on my friend Matt's life. Everything that happens to him is "Rolling in the isle" funny. Geri: Who is your favorite author? Chris: It's cliche', but "All Hail the King!" I really like Robert Crais, and Terry Brooks too. I don't miss anything that they put out. Geri: Are your characters created from people you've known in real life? Chris: Yes! And the ones based on my friends, they know it's them, without telling them. Geri: How many books have you written? Chris: "PUSH" is my first completed book. Geri: Where can your books be purchased? Chris: www.amazon.com www.christopherbyron.net Geri: Describe how you felt the first time you were published? Chris: Getting the first proof of my completed novel was similar to my kids being born. That might seem melodramatic, but you put all the work and effort into preparing for it, you know it's coming, but it isn't real until it's there. Thankfully, I won't have to change its diapers! Geri: Do you have any current work in progress? Chris: I have started working on the next chapter in the lives of those characters, but I have a thriller that is screaming to be told, bouncing around in my head that will have to come first. Can you say, "Ghost Story?" Geri: What are some links to your websites? Chris: www.myspace.com/cirruschris www.christopherbyron.net Geri: Do you have goals set for the future? Chris: Complete and total world domination, of course, or maybe to just enjoy myself, and hopefully entertain someone. Yeah, that would do! Geri: At this point, and time in your life, are you exactly where you want to be? Chris: Up until recently, I really didn't know I was going to have any writing endeavors. So, Yes, this is great! I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Geri: What can help authors reach their dream? Chris: Plain, simple, bullheaded stubbornness. If you've got that, you'll accomplish something! That, and a good story, your there! Geri: Have you ever experienced writer's block? Chris: Sure! Geri: What can prevent it, in your opinion? Chris: I found that writer's block is a pretty name for fear. I realized thatif I was having a hard time writing something, it was because I was afraid of it. Either because I wasn't sure that I'd be able to articulate the image in my mind on to the page adequately, or because I wasn't sure that was going to happen. Most frequently, if I could get passed the fear, the words would flow. Geri: As a child, did you have any favorite books? Chris: As a kid, I liked "Choose your own adventure books, Encyclopedia Brown books, and Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing." After that, The Shannara Books, and The Tailsman by Steven King, and Peter Straub. Geri: As a child, did you enjoy reading alot? Chris: All the time, until I figured out that chicks dug good guitar, more than good readers. Then, I figured out that I could be both. Geri: If you had the opportunity to one day live the life of a famous author, who would it be? Chris: Wow! Ummmm, next question please? Geri: Many authors feel a sense of self-satisfaction, self-achievement, after publishing a book. Can you relate to these feelings? Chris: If you mean feelings like, "WOOOOOOOOOO! HAHAHAHA! YIPPEE" while dancing around my living room....Yeah, I can relate! Is that over the top? Geri: How do you balance your current occupation with writing? Chris: Same way as everyone else, I don't sleep! Geri: How did you feel at your first book-signing? Chris: I'll get back with you on this one! Geri: If you won the lottery tomorrow, what would change? Chris: Then, I could get some sleep, and write. Geri: As writers, we begin with a manuscript, and end with promotions. What was your most difficult task? Chris: I have spent a long time working in sales, in one form, or another. so I understand promotions on that level. The most difficult task to me is having the patience to make sure everything is right, before hyping it, I tend to get excited. Geri: Some writer's need to listen to music, or focus on the ocean, or flowers while writing. Do you have a particular scenery? Chris: Definetely music. I usually write with Tori Amos playing in the background, with some Dishwalla, Van Halen, and Audioslave mixed in. Oh yeah, don't forget Tchaikovsky, and Orff. Is that eclectric for you? Geri: If you were to write a book in a different genre other than what you've written, what would it be? Chris: Hmmmm, I might go full fledged into a Dragons and Wizards at some point. I'd like to do an old fashioned crime/thriller/whodunnit? But really, I don't plan that far ahead. I just want to keep writing whatever comes out. Hopefully, people will like it! Geri: Thank you so much for your time. It's been a Pleasure, and delightful. Among your plans for writing, please do include comedy, if you can make me laugh the way you did, I already know an Audience would love your entertainment! Wonderful Interview! Chris: Your welcome, thank you!

Sunday, November 9, 2008

**INTERVIEW With Donald James Parker**

It is an honor, and a Great Pleasure to Interview Author Donald James Parker! Geri: When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer? Don: I think I was about ten. Geri: What type of books do you enjoy writing? Don: Funny, Inspirational, and romantic novels which contain much thought-provoking material, and spiritual insight. Geri: Did a special person in your life inspire you to write? Don: Jesus Christ Geri: Have you written any books based on a true life story? Don: Not totally, but I've included the story of two inspirational men who died at any early age in different novels. Geri: Are your characters created from people you've known in real life? Don: For the most part, totally made up, though it's hard to keep part of myself out of the equation. Geri: How many books have you written? Don: Seven Geri: Where can your books be purchased? Don: Amazon, Barnesandnoble online, and donaldjamesparker.com Geri: Describe how you felt the first time you were published? Don: Euphoric. I was at work when I got the email that my book was available on Amazon. I couldn't concentrate on my job to save my life that morning! Geri: Do you have any current work in progress? Don: I have three Geri: What are some links to your websites? Don: donaldjamesparker.com Geri: Do you have goals set for the future? Don: To address every issue of planet earth in one of my novels Geri: Are you exactly where you want to be with your writing? Don: Not really, I regret that I threw in the towel so early in life. I'm just breaking into the business at the age when most writer's are established. Geri: What can help authors reach their dream? Don: Persistence, luck, self-discipline, a mentor...and did I mention luck? Geri: Have you ever experienced writer's block? Don: Not with any of my books yet! Geri: What can prevent it? Don: Go for a jog, walk, bike ride, and stimulate your body and mind! Geri: As a child, did you have favorite books? Don: I read everything I could get my hands on, but especially loved sports novels, which I included in my seven novels. Geri: As a child, did you enjoy reading? Don: Definetely, four books a day during the summer, that's all my library let me check out. Geri: If you had the opportunity to one day live the life of a famous author, who would it be? Don: C.S. Lewis Geri: Many authors feel a sense of self-satisfaction, self-achievement after publishing a book, can you relate? Don: Yes, but those feelings are incomplete, until readers find it of value. Geri: How do you balance occupation with writing? Don: It's hard right now. Before I published, I found time to write six books in two years. Now, marketing and promoting is taking a lot of writing time away. Geri: How did you feel at your first book-signing? Don: Lonely, I sold two books at each of my first two signings. The next one went much better, and I felt a great joy. Geri: If you won the lottery tomorrow, would anything change? Don: I'd quit my day job, hire a publist, and just write. Geri: As writers, we begin with a manuscript, and end with promotions. What was your most difficult task? Don: Trying to market myself far transcends writing a book in the arena of difficulty. Geri: Some writer's need to listen to music, or focus on the ocean, or flowers. Do you have a particular scenery? Don: My computer screen Geri: If you were to write in a different genre, what would it be? Don: My goal is to inspire people while entertaining them. I can't contemplate writing a genre that was strictly an escape hatch. Geri: Thank you very much for your time! Don: It was a Pleasure!

*INTERVIEW WITH Author Mack Beasley*

It is with Great Pleasure, and an Honor to bring to Today's Interview, Author Mack Beasley! Geri: When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer? Mack: I would say when I was about twenty-one. I dreamed of writing a book, but nothing would ever come to mind, except a title. Geri: What type of books do you enjoy writing? Mack: Mystery, and Suspense, the same kind that I like to read. Geri: Did a special person in your life inspire you to write? Mack: Many of the real good authors like James Patterson, John Sandford, and Robert Parker made me want to try to write. Geri: Have you written any books based on a true life story? Mack: No, not yet! But, I am considering doing a fiction based on my own life, and my struggle with alcohol. The things that happened to me, because of the choices I made. Geri: Who is your favorite author? Mack: I would have to say Robert Parker Geri: Are your characters created from people you've known in real life? Mack: Most are created from people I've known in real life, just a few are from my imagination. Geri: How many books have you written? Mack: I have two books. I just finished the second, which is a Mystery novel. Geri: Where can your books be purchased? Mack: Barnesandnoble, Amazon, http://mackbeasley.webs.com/ or: any online book seller. Geri: Describe how you felt the first time you were published? Mack: Really good! Like a dream had come true! Geri: Do you have any current work in progress? Mack: I'm going to start the third book in this series within the next few months! Geri: What are some links to your websites? Mack: http://www.publishedauthors.net/mackbeasley/bio.html shoutlife.com/mackbeasley http://mackbeasley.webs.com/ Geri: Do you have goals set for the future? Mack: Not really! I'm retired, so I take it as it comes! Geri: At this time in your life, are you exactly where you want to be with your writing? Mack: Well, I'd like to have a NY Times Best Seller, but I'm happy where I am! Geri: What can help authors reach for their dream? Mack: You just have to sit down, and do it! It takes a while, and you get discouraged, but one day at a time. Geri: Have you ever experienced writer's block? Mack: I don't know if I call it writer's block, but I do have to sit down from time-to-time, and figure out where I'm going! Geri: What advice can you give to prevent writer's block? Mack: I think taking a break from writing always helps me, plus doing other things that I enjoy. Geri: As a child, did you have any favorite books? Mack: I read a lot of Roy Rogers books when I was a kid. Geri: As a child, did you enjoy reading a lot? Mack: Always! Geri: If you had the opportunity to one day live the life of a famous author, who would it be? Mack: I really don't know. I'm happy with the life I have today, and that hasn't always been true. Geri: Many authors feel a sense of self-satisfaction after publishing a book. Some feel a sense of achievemet, can you relate to such feelings? Mack: I can! When the Publishing Company accepted my novel, and sent me a contract, I felt a dream came true! Geri: How do you balance your current occupation with writing Mack: I'm retired, and started writing when I retired, so I never had that problem. Geri: How did you feel at your first book-signing? Mack: I felt humble, and very thankful that people would buy my book, and read it. I felt real good when people asked me to sign it, and write a note. I think that's the best part of writing! Geri: If you won the lottery tomorrow, would that change your writing plans? Mack: I think no-matter what we say, it would change everything. For me, I'd be able to hire someone to help me. Geri: As writers, we begin with a manuscript, and end in promotions, what was the most difficult task? Mack: Since I was in sales, and promotions all my life, that was easier for me. The part I like the least is the travel to set up the book signing, interviews, or whatever I can do to get my name in front of people. Geri: Some writer's listen to music, some focus on the ocean, or flowers. Do you have a particular scenery to focus on? Mack: No, I want it quiet! I want to be in my study at home, usually alone. I have to be comfortable, and at ease. Geri: If you were to have a book published other than what you've written already, what would it be? Mack: I think I would try a non-fiction! Geri: Thank you very much Mack. It's been a Pleasure to Promote you from day one! Mack: Your quite welcome, thank you for your time!

Monday, October 13, 2008

**INTERVIEW With Malcolm R. Campbell**

Geri: When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer? Malcolm: I knew I wanted to be a writer by the time I was in high school. My father was a college journalism professor, so I grew up with journalists coming out to the house a lot, and spinning yarns about the exciting stories they covered, and the wonderful novels they planned to write. It looked like a great life. Geri: What type of books do you enjoy writing? Malcolm: I'm happiest when I'm working on novels with complex plots, and a lot of misdirection that throws the reader off-course from the conclusion I'm heading for. I especially like mixing dreams, and magic together. Geri: Did a special person in your life inspire you to write? Malcolm: My father was my greatest inspiration. He spent many hours a day at the typewriter writing magazine articles, and books. Geri: Have you written any books based on a true life story? Malcolm: Portions of "THE SUN SINGER" are based on childhood experiences. Portions of my next novel "GARDEN OF HEAVEN" are based on adult experiences. Geri: Who is your favorite author? Malcolm: For fiction, Virginia Woolf. I also like Italo Calvino, Diana Gabaldon, Pat Conroy a great deal. For non-fiction I'm a long time fan of Joseph Campbell. Geri: Are your characters created from people you've known in real life? Malcolm: My characters usually begin in my imagination. Then, as they come to life, they often remind me of people I know. Geri: How many books have you written? Macolm: A novel, "THE SUN SINGER" and "WORST OF JOCK STEWART." Geri: Where can your books be purchased? Malcolm: Powell's, Amazon, Barnesandnoble, IUniverse, Lulu.com Geri: How did you feel the first time you were published? Malcolm: I felt euphoric as well as depressed. On the plus side, was the culmination of a dream. On the other hand, I missed the give-and-take of the writing, watching the characters come alive, and telling me where they thought the story ought to be going next. As odd as it sounds, I'd come to know them quite well. Geri: Do you have any current work in progress? Malcolm: I plan to write a sequel to "THE SUN SINGER." But, first I turned to a story that has been nagging me since the early 1990s called "GARDEN OF HEAVEN." Geri: What are some links to your websites? Malcolm: www.campbelleditorial.com/sunsinger.html www.malcolmrcampbell.com http://www.myspace.com/myrider http://sunsinger.blogspot.com/ Geri: Do you have goals set for the future? Malcolm: My novels are interconnected. "GARDEN OF HEAVEN" introduces several characters that appear in "THE SUN SINGER." I am currently working with the titles of "SARABANDE and DAHLIA." Geri: Are you exactly where you want to be in your writing? Malcolm: I never want to be at the point I expected to be, leaving less room for growth, and unexpected surprises. Geri: What are some factors that can help authors reach their dreams? Malcolm: Authors must listen to their hearts, and be true to their own kinds of stories, what they have a passion for. Geri: Have you ever experienced writer's block? Malcolm: If I am distracted by other things, or haven't given thought to the story carefully, I am more likely to fight with the scenes. Geri: What advice can you give to prevent writer's block? Malcolm: Stop stressing over it, and don't force the words. It's much better to go for a walk, or go see a movie, then stare at the computer screen. Geri: As a child, did you have favorite books? Malcolm: I read many biographies, and historical fiction from my school library. Geri: As a child, did you enjoy reading? Malcolm: My parents read to me almost everyday. Geri: If you had the opportunity to one day live the life of a famous author, who would it be? Malcolm: Fame would be both a blessing, and a curse. I have no interest in becoming famous in the celebrity sense of the word. I would much prefer to sell a lot of books, and be left alone to write. Geri: Many authors feel a sense of self-satisfaction, a sense of achievement after publishing a book. Can you relate to such feelings? Malcolm: Sure! The physical book that the reader sees is the tip of the iceberg when one considers the effort that went into it. Geri: How do you balance your current occupaton with writing? Malcolm: I'm a freelance writer, so writing goals are my current occupation. Geri: How did you feel at your first book-signing? Malcolm: The remnants of a hurricane came through down during my first book-signing, so I was rather surprised when people actually showed up. It was very difficult at first for me to stand in front of them, and talk about my story that was private for so many years. Geri: If you won the lottery tomorrow, would that change your writing plans? Malcolm: I would keep writing, but would not have to worry about the mortgage, or my car breaking down. Geri: As writers, we begin with a manuscript, and end with promotions. What was your most difficult task? Malcolm: If you have a knack for meeting people, and for making both you, and your book look interesting, the daunting task of promotion will be easier and perhaps a lot of fun. Geri: Some writer's need to listen to music, or look at the ocean, or flowers when writing. Do you have a particular scenery? Malcolm: I find music very distracting, especially vocals. Occasionally, I'll find instrumental music that fits the mood of the book, and use it to focus on my story. Geri: If you were to publish in a different genre than what you've already published, what would it be? Malcolm: I like the freedom of saying, "The sky's the limit." Being free to create whatever kind of story I want is my natural way of writing. Geri: Thank you very much, it has been an honor to Interview you. Malcolm: Your welcome, It was my pleasure!

**INTERVIEW With Sarah Abdulaziz**

Geri: When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer? Sarah: When I was reading an especially interesting book, and realized that I wanted to create my own stories, and poetry to entertain others. Geri: What type of books do you enjoy writing? Sarah: Stories that are fantasy, and science fiction that are based on my dreams, and ideas. Also, I enjoy writing poetry. Geri: Did a special person in your life inspire you to write? Sarah: It was one of my teachers in fourth grade, who I greatly admired, and another person that shall stay un-named. Geri: Have you written any books based on a true life story? Sarah: No, not yet, but I hope to begin one soon. I have been brainstorming, and drafting ideas for a book based on one of my life experiences. Geri: Are your characters created from people you've known in real life? Sarah: Some are based from people I currently know, and others are from my imagination, with characteristics I admire, and find interesting. Geri: How many books have you written? Sarah: Some are not yet published, but are in the process. I've had one book published titled "Crying Rose." A compilation of poetry written by me, also I've written drafts for 3 other books. Geri: Where can your books be purchased? Sarah: "Crying Rose" can be purchased at: www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com, www.Xlibris.com Target, Ebay, and many other retailers. Geri: Describe how you felt the first time you were published? Sarah: I felt exuberant, with the knowledge that one of my dreams were coming true. People will know of my work, and be entertained. Geri: Do you have any current work in progress? Sarah: Yes! I am working very hard on a vampire, fantasy story. Geri: What are some links to your websites? Sarah: www.myspace.com/sarahabdulaziz Geri: Do you have goals set for the future? Sarah: Yes, I have many that I plan to accomplish for the future. I want to become a noted, and legendary author, and poet. I want to become successful. Geri: Are you exactly where you want to be in your writing? Sarah: Yes, my life right now can't get any better. Geri: What are some factors that can help authors reach their dreams? Sarah: People who want to become authors have to have a steadfast will, and the strength to accept any problems that block their way from being an author. Geri: Have you ever experienced writer's block? Sarah: Yes, I have! I just seem to lose my ideas, and imagination. Geri: What advice can you give to prevent writer's block? Sarah: Just take a break from writing. Get your mind on other things, and be more active. Geri: As a child, did you have favorite books? Sarah: Dr. Seuss Books! I love Dr. Seuss books! They have such imagination, and always made me laugh! Geri: As a child, did you enjoy reading? Sarah: As a child, I was not that interested in reading. My mother inspired me to read more books, and that increased my outlook on life, and knowledge I had on the world. Geri: If you had the opportunity to one day live the life of a famous author, who would it be? Sarah: Jane Austen. I love the way she writes, and her books. Geri: Some authors feel self-satisfaction, some feel a sense of achievement after publishing a book, can you relate to such feelings? Sarah: Yes, absolutely! I have felt both self-satisfaction, and a sense of achievement, because I feel closer to accomplishing my goals. Geri: How do you balance your current occupation with writing? Sarah: I'm a student, and write daily. I must study, continue my education, and write daily. Geri: How did you feel at your first book-signing? Sarah: I have not had a book-signing yet, but I have signed books for a couple of fans, and felt proud. Geri: If you won the lottery tomorrow, would your writing plans change? Sarah: It would not change my plans for writing. I'd be able to write, and publish more, while being financially secure. Geri: As writers, we begin with a manuscript, and end in promotions. What was your most difficult task? Sarah: Waiting for a publisher to accept your book, and publish it. Geri: Some writer's need to listen to music,or look at flowers, or the ocean. Do you have a particular scenery? Sarah: I like looking outside my window. You can see people, and children playing around, the sky, and many trees. It gives me another aspect on writing. Geri: If you were to write in a different genre than what you've already published, what would it be? Sarah: A novel of romance! Geri: Thank you very much for Today's Interview. It's been a pleasure! Sarah: Your welcome, it was fun!

**INTERVIEW With Dominique L. Watson**

Geri: When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer? Dominique: I've been writing since I was a young girl, but I had no idea that I actually wanted to write novels and inspirational stories, until a few years ago. Geri: What type of books do you enjoy writing? Dominique: I love writing inspirational stories. I feel it is my purpose to inspire. I also enjoy writing fictional novels about different things we experience in life. Geri: Did a special person in your life inspire you to become a writer? Dominique: Absolutely! My grandmother, who raised me when I was a young girl. I believe she is truly the only person who believes in my work. Geri: Have you written any books based on a true life story? Dominique: Yes, I have! It's not in print yet, but it's a book about my life when I was living in Japan with my husband, and daughter, and what the journey did to my life. Geri: Who is your favorite author? Dominique: James Patterson. I love his books, they keep you on your toes. Geri: Are your characters created from people you've known in real life? Dominique: No, my characters are imaginary! Geri: How many books have you written? Dominique: I have 2 books published, but probably 11 0r 12 manuscripts finished. Geri: Where can your books be purchased? Dominique: www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com, http://redleadbooks.com/inspiremeyoung.html http://dominiquewatson.webs.com/ Geri: Describe how you felt the first time you were published. Dominique: I was excited. I couldn't believe that my book was in print. It was a wonderful feeling. Geri: Do you have any current work in progress? Dominique: Yes! I'm actually working on editing my third book titled "TOO MUCH UNTOLD." This is definitely my hardest book. Geri: What are some links to your websites? Dominique: http://dominiquewatson.webs.com Geri: Do you have goals set for the future? Dominique: Just to be an established writer, for reader's to know who I am, and who I stand for. Geri: Are you exactly where you want to be in your writing endeavors? Dominique: No way! I've got a long way to go, and so much to learn. Geri: What are some factors that can help authors reach their dream of accomplishment? Dominique: Never listen to someone telling you no. Always believe in yourself, and what you can write. Be you, and express it freely! Geri: Have you ever experienced writer's block? Dominique: Yes, I have, plenty of times! Geri: What advice can you give to prevent writer's block? Dominique: Walk away, and come back later. Let your mind rest, and then try to start your project again. Geri: As a child, did you have any favorite books? Dominique: Yes, I had a few, but can't remember them all. Geri: As a child, did you enjoy reading? Dominique: I loved it! Geri: If you had the opportunity to one day live the life of a famous author, who would it be? Dominique: Probably James Patterson. They did a story on him, and I love how he writes. Geri: Many authors feel a sense of self-satisfaction, a sense of achievement after publishing a book, can you relate to such feelings? Dominique: Yes, I felt complete, accomplished! Geri: How do you balance your current occupation with your goals for writing? Dominique: I always make time, and where-ever I go, I carry a notebook with me. Geri: How did you feel at your first book-signing Dominique: Wow! I can't believe this is me! Geri: If you won the lottery tomorrow, would that change your writing plans? Dominique: Nope! I would keep going, nothing can stop me from writing. Geri: As writers, we begin with a manuscript, and end with promotions. What was your most difficult task? Dominique: Promotions! To get your name out there, and people to want to read your book. It's a tough job! Geri: Some writer's need to listen to music, or prefer to look at the ocean, or flowers when writing. Do you have a particular scenery? Dominique: Yes! Peace-and-quiet! I actually love to write outdoors! Geri: If you were to publish in a different genre than what you've already written, what would it be? Dominique: Romance, or science fiction. I would go way out of my league to test myself. Geri: Thank you very much for today's Interview. It's been a pleasure! Dominique: Your welcome, I enjoyed it, God Bless!