Interview with Courtney Moore, Author of Moonlight Walkers – Forbidden Lands

Hello,

Today’s interview is with Courtney Moore, author of Moonlight Walkers – Forbidden Lands.

Please enjoy!

Best,

Vincent Lowry

 

Interview:

1) What is your author name and in what state do you live (or country if not in the US)?

Courtney Moore, Texas.

 

2) What is the title of your newest book and what is the genre?

MOONLIGHT WALKERS: FORBIDDEN LANDS, Middle Grade Fiction/Fantasy.

 

3) What is the book about? 

Short summary: It’s about a young, unique wolf name Sakura, her hidden ancestral history, and the dragons that will do anything to control it. 

 

Full summary (blurb): Young Sakura has always wondered why her family kept a tight leash on her and her younger brother, never allowing them to leave the pack boundaries. Deep inside, she knows that she’s meant for more than the comforting shelter of her secluded forest.

Her belief is put to the test when a group of ruthless, powerful dragons invade her home and kidnap her pack. The dragon’s king desperately wants to find the Wolves Amulet, a sacred item of the wolves that he believes will grant him freedom from his enchanted prison. After escaping the claws of capture, Sakura, her brother, and a childhood friend set out on a treacherous search for their family, abandoning the familiar boundaries of their home for the first time.

When Sakura learns of her ancestral background – being a descendant from a supernatural wolf and the only one capable of unlocking the power within the amulet, the stakes become greater. With her true identity now revealed, she becomes the wolf king’s greatest asset and the dragon king’s main target, forcing Sakura to decide on the fate of her life and the world as she knows it.

 

4) Where did you come up with the idea?

This all started back in High School, over fifteen years ago. I love reading fantasy books that take the reader to far off worlds. So, I decided to create my own. 

 

5) How long did it take you to write it?

The rough draft was written over fifteen years ago, but most of the story was compiled recently and took me about a year and a half to finish (between adding more plot, character development, and editor reviewing).

 

6) Did you learn anything from the project?

Yes a lot! Especially from my editors. I learned to keep an eye out for the small things that can be overlooked, sometimes making a big difference in the story.

 

7) Do you have an author website and/or blog? How about a book video?

Author website: Courtneymooreauthor.com

Twitter: @Cmooreauthor

 

8) Do you have any success tips to pass on to fellow authors? How about any great editors/cover artists? 

Tips for future writers that want to be authors: Never give up. Don’t take no from an agent or publisher. Keep reviewing and editing your manuscript, eventually you will shine to the right person and/or publisher. Everyone has different tastes for what they are looking for (and that is why it’s a good idea to research the agent and/or publisher to make sure they are the right fit for your manuscript’s audience). Also, it’s a good idea to invest in an editor. They will find things that you never thought to look for. They are a huge eye opener and great knowledge source. A great editor I recommend is Raven Eckman. 

 

9) What genres do you like to read? Are you open to reading new authors and reviewing their work?

My favorite genres are fantasy and adventure. I would love to review other authors work and give my feedback.

 

10) What is your favorite book of all time and why? 

Hmm, a very hard question! I have so many books, especially from when I was younger, that I adore! One that was my first novel series is the WARRIORS series by Erin Hunter. This series was also an inspiration to me in creating my own world, but with my favorite animal – wolves! 

 

11) Fun Question: Do you have any pets? If so, what kind?

Yes, my husband and I love animals. We currently have two Quaker parrots and two lizards.

 

12) Fun Question 2: Do you own an electronic reading device? If so, what kind and how do you like it?

I unfortunately don’t own a reading device.

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Interview with Julian Adorney, Author of The Dragon’s Curse

Hello,

Today’s interview is with Julian Adorney, author of The Dragon’s Curse.

I hope you enjoy it!

Thanks,

-Vincent Lowry

 

Interview:

1) What is your author name and in what state do you live (or country if not in the US)?

I write under my real name–Julian Adorney.

 

I live in Colorado but I want to travel the world 🙂

 

2) What is the title of your newest book and what is the genre?

The Dragon’s Curse is a stand-alone fantasy romance novel.

 

3) What is the book about?

Here’s the synopsis:

 

When Princess Esmerelda stumbles onto a secret buried in the depths of her floating city, the God of Fate curses her. Within seventy days, she will die and her beloved kingdom will fall.

 

If Esmerelda is to survive, she’ll have to unravel the secret of why she was cursed and learn to beat a spiteful God at its own game.

 

Complicating her struggle is Parius, a dashing stranger with a mysterious past. He’s brave and noble and unpredictable, and she finds herself falling for him. But he has dark secrets all his own, secrets their budding relationship may not survive.

 

Their quest takes the pair to forgotten magics, beautiful witches in sleepy villages, and the ancient caverns of the dragons. But time is running out. Can the lovers defeat the God of Fate, or will they lose everything they hold dear?

4) Where did you come up with the idea?

It took me awhile to figure out what the book was about honestly, because writing is so much an exploration for me. It’s not like I decide what the book is about and then set pen to paper to write it…it’s more like I’m exploring the story as I go! So first I thought the story was about a princess who learned to fight, and I played around with a few different ideas before I realized it was about a woman who fought against a brutal destiny.

 

At the time I was struggling a lot with the idea of fate and free will, so it makes sense that I was called to write this story.

5) How long did it take you to write it?

A little over two and a half years from start to publication. And it was an absolute blast the whole time 🙂

6) Did you learn anything from the project?

Tons! This is the first novel that I’ve published, and I’d never worked on a story this complex before.

 

I learned to trust my Muse–my Muse knows the story a whole lot better than my left-brain logical “Me” does. I also learned to not try to predict where the story was going to go–a lot of the really fun moments came because I was discovering this story right along with the characters, and when Esmerelda got herself into a tight spot I didn’t know how she would get out again!

 

Finally I learned that writing fiction is weird–and that’s okay! Amazing, actually. I remember one time I was trying to get a handle on the character of a talking tiger. And it just hit me one moment–I’m walking down the street in broad daylight, having a vivid (but silent) conversation with a talking tiger and asking him why he’s mad at a sorcerer. It was fun!

7) Do you have an author website and/or blog? How about a book video?

Here’s my author website: https://julianadorney.com/, although I don’t blog a ton. No book video at the moment.

8) Do you have any success tips to pass on to fellow authors? How about any great editors/cover artists?

My main piece of advice, like I said above, is to trust your Muse. It knows the story, so sit back and let it tell it.

 

I used Amygdala Designs for my cover art, and Ida was fabulous! I don’t get anything if you use her, but I highly recommend checking her out.

 

9) What genres do you like to read? Are you open to reading new authors and reviewing their work?

I’m very open to reading new authors! I can’t promise a review unless I like the story, just because I know that different folks have different tastes and I don’t want to leave a negative review of a good book just because it wasn’t my cup of tea 🙂

 

I love reading fantasy stories and romance stories. I love any stories with a good romance in them. I also read some sci-fi!

10) What is your favorite book of all time and why?

The Harry Potter series, because it’s just so magical. If I had to choose a favorite book, I would say Prisoner of Azkaban–I love the big reveal about Sirius!

11) Fun Question: Do you have any pets? If so, what kind?

I really want to get a cat! But no pets right now.

 

12) Fun Question 2: Do you own an electronic reading device? If so, what kind and how do you like it?

I don’t honestly, I just use my laptop or physical books. I really love physical books.

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Interview with Stephanie Ross, Author of Tears of the Unicorns

 

Good morning,

Today’s interview is with Stephanie Ross, author of Tears of the Unicorns.

Please enjoy.

Best,

-Vincent Lowry

Interview:

1) What is your author name and in what state do you live (or country if not in the US)?

My author name is Stephanie Rose, it is my maiden’s name. I thought of keeping it as my pen name since I already published under this name before my marriage. Would have been weird to change my author name. I am located in South Germany near Stuttgart.

2) What is the title of your newest book and what is the genre?

My newest book is called “The Tears of the Unicorns”. It is a Fantasy trilogy and the final volume will be released on November 15^th 2019.

3) What is the book about? 

“The Tears of the Unicorns” is about the angel Caylen, who gets lost in his despair about the injustice of the world. He strives to destroy everything in order to create a better, more just world for all beings, especially those that are different. His sister Miriel has to find a way to stop the destruction her brother caused and safe the world.

4) Where did you come up with the idea?

The first ideas for this series came to me at the spur of the moment during a little project – a role play – I did with my best friend. It was a love story between the elements of Water and Fire. This story finally inspired me to pick up the idea of elemental magic and create a mystic new world of my own.

5) How long did it take you to write it?

If I remember correctly, it took me about 2 or 3 years to finish it – with looooots of disruptions.

6) Did you learn anything from the project?

I’d say it cleared my mind and helped me realize what I want to do with my life. It inspires me to go on.

7) Do you have an author website and/or blog? How about a book video?

I do have an author website which is bilingual (German and English) – www.searose-fantasy.de

I’ve always dreamed of a book video, but I haven’t found the right inspiration for one so far.

8) Do you have any success tips to pass on to fellow authors? How about any great editors/cover artists? 

First, I’d say never give up on your dream. If you want to be a writer be a writer, with all your heart, and for the main part write for yourself, not to please others. Write what you want to write and not what others want you to. Put all your heart in it.

Since I had to find out the hard way that all that glitters is not gold, I decided to do the cover work for my books myself – and I think I am doing a pretty good job with it. It is – somehow – part of my real job (advertisement design).

9) What genres do you like to read? Are you open to reading new authors and reviewing their work?

I LOVE Fantasy stories! It is my favorite genre and I am always open to reading new and unknown authors if I like their story idea. There are so many good books out there that need to be discovered. I am no big fan of mainsteam literature though.

10) What is your favorite book of all time and why? 

I don’t think I have an all time favorite book. There are a few books I enjoy reading over and over again though.

11) Fun Question: Do you have any pets? If so, what kind?

Does my husband count? 😀

12) Fun Question 2: Do you own an electronic reading device? If so, what kind and how do you like it?

I do have an eBook reader – a Kindle HD Fire – but I am not really into reading eBooks. I prefer the touch and smell of a real book.

 

*As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 

Interview with Thomas M. Kane, Author of The Witches of Crannock Dale

Hello,

Today’s interview is with Thomas M. Kane, author of The Witches of Crannock Dale.

Please see below.

Best,

-Vince

Interview:

1) What is your author name and in what state do you live (or country if not in the US)?

Thomas M. Kane. Maine.

2) What is the title of your newest book and what is the genre?

The Witches of Crannock Dale. Fantasy.

3) What is the book about?

It starts when an eleven-year old girl named Mara Bennett hears the church bells ring on the wrong day. She knows that’s supposed to be a warning that her country has been invaded. Then the knights that are supposed to be protecting her village arrest her aunt for witchcraft. Suddenly, she doesn’t know what’s really happening or who to trust. She’s determined to protect the people she cares about, she’s determined to save her aunt, and she feels as if she has to do it all by herself.

4) Where did you come up with the idea?

When I was little, my mother told me the story of the Trojan Horse. She also told me that there was a Trojan girl named Cassandra who saw through the trick. I thought Cassandra seemed like a neat person, and when I became interested in writing, I decided to write about a character like her.

5) How long did it take you to write it?

I had been thinking about the idea for nearly forty years. It took me a few months to write the first two or three chapters. Then I found a helpful writers’ group, and with that inspiration, I wrote the other twenty-three chapters in a few months more.

6) Did you learn anything from the project?

Absolutely! Most recently, I’ve been learning a lot about how artists and designers work. Artist Robin M. Birrell has painted a cover that captures a lot of my favorite details from the book and done some interior illustrations as well. Tallulah van der Made has been turning Robin’s work into a finished cover. I am impressed with their work and grateful to have met both of them.

7) Do you have an author website and/or blog? How about a book video?

Yes! My website is www.thomasmkane.com. I post stories and articles there two or three times a month. I’m also active on Facebook (@thomasmkaneauthor), Twitter (thomasmkane11) and Goodreads.

8) Do you have any success tips to pass on to fellow authors? How about any great editors/cover artists?

The first tip that comes to mind is, if you know what you want to write, write it! I strongly recommend the artists I mentioned above. Chrissy Cutting at Fiverr did a highly professional job editing my work and I deeply appreciate Glenn Sarco of Sarco Press’s work formatting the text.

9) What genres do you like to read? Are you open to reading new authors and reviewing their work?

I read practically all genres and review honestly.

10) What is your favorite book of all time and why?

The Lord of the Rings towers (ahem) over my writing life, but the book which inspires me most these days is Ursula K. Le Guin’s Tehanu. Tehanu explores its characters’ inner lives and family relationships in powerful and thought-provoking ways.

11) Fun Question: Do you have any pets? If so, what kind?

My only “pets” at the moment are the wild creatures who live in the woods around my house – but anyone who reads Witches of Crannock Dale will see that I have had some wonderful cats in my life in the past.

12) Fun Question 2: Do you own an electronic reading device? If so, what kind and how do you like it?

I read e-books on my laptop. That works well for me now – bu I have had good experiences with Kindles.

 

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Interview with C.L. Mannarino, Author of Singers of Atlantis

Today we have another author interview, this time with CL Mannarino about the book Singers of Atlantis.

Please enjoy!

Best,

-Vincent Lowry

Interview:

1) What is your author name and in what state do you live (or country if not in the US)?

My name is C.L. Mannarino, and I’m from Massachusetts.

2) What is the title of your newest book and what is the genre?

My newest book is called SINGERS OF ATLANTIS, and it’s the sequel to my teen romantic fantasy story called SWANS OF ATLANTIS.

3) What is the book about?

For the first time since she returned to the vacation town of Atlantis, Kat hates the magic of soul mates. They’re complicated. They take a while to find. And they’re not even all you hoped they would be. She wants nothing more to do with them.

But when she and her childhood crush, Matt Michaels, find out that he has a week to fix his severed soul, or be considered incurable, she wants nothing more than to find the girl who started all this, and demand of her that she fix it.

Except now, that girl has gone missing, and not even the ones who know her best can find her. To make matters worse, she’s also been ingesting the same poison that’s hurting Matt’s soul. By the time they find her, it might be too late for her to do anything.

Will she and Matt be able to find the girl in time? Or will the history between the girl and Matt only get in the way of their finding a healing solution?

4) Where did you come up with the idea?

After I finished SWANS OF ATLANTIS, I wanted to know what happened next. When I started drafting, I looked at all the questions I hadn’t answered in book one, and did my best to find answers.

5) How long did it take you to write it?

Even though I knew what was going to happen pretty early on, it still took me over a year to get the story in writing.

6) Did you learn anything from the project?

Every book is different from every book you’ve written before. Sometimes, a story just takes more time.

7) Do you have an author website and/or blog? How about a book video?

I do! My author website is clmannarino.com

8) Do you have any success tips to pass on to fellow authors? How about any great editors/cover artists?

A tip would be to just not quit. Even if you have to go slower than everyone else, as long as you keep writing, you’ll do well.

For editors, I’d recommend Susan Bischoff of Forge Book Finishers, and Sara Kocek of Yellow Bird Editors. They’re smart, insightful women who really know their stuff.

For artists, I adore Najla Qamber Designs, as well as OkayCreations. They both do beautiful, stunning work!

9) What genres do you like to read? Are you open to reading new authors and reviewing their work?

I love fantasy, and I’m always interested in reading something new.

10) What is your favorite book of all time and why?

Ella Enchanted, which has held up as a wonderful story ever since it first came out. I still love all the characters, and I still find myself getting lost in the kingdom of Frell, both of which I consider the hallmarks of a great book.

11) Fun Question: Do you have any pets? If so, what kind?

My family has cats and dogs alike.

12) Fun Question 2: Do you own an electronic reading device? If so, what kind and how do you like it?

I have a Kindle, and it’s fantastic!

 

*As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Interview with Bryant Reil, Author of Elf Doubt

Hello,

Today’s interview is with Bryant Reil, author of Elf Doubt.

Please enjoy!

Best

-Vincent Lowry

Interview:

1) What is your author name and in what state do you live (or country if not in the US)?

Bryant Reil, and I live in BC, Canada.

2) What is the title of your newest book and what is the genre?

The most recent book is Elf Doubt (Book 2 of Elf Mastery). It is a YA Fantasy and sequel to Elf Mastery. I am currently writing the third and final book, Elf Righteous.

3) What is the book about?

Elf Doubt follows the aftermath of Elf Mastery (in which Kyla Nim stopped Erebus, god of darkness, from eliminating all light from the world.) The World of Order is fracturing from political upheaval and rebellion. Kyla Nim, on her way to inform the King and Queen of Erebus’ defeat, is met by a mysterious patron who sends her on a series of dangerous quests. The revelation as to her patron’s identity, her frustration with Queen Titania, and her own personal tragedy sends Kyla into a spiral of doubt. As the government faces world-changing internal threats, Kyla’s safety and reputation suffer in the turmoil, and she finds herself on the wrong end of higher powers.

4) Where did you come up with the idea?

I initially came up with the setting: our modern world, but nature and science are the results of work by fairies and mythical creatures. However, I wanted a character-driven rather than setting-driven story, so I came up with Kyla Nim, essentially a naive small-town girl with little experience or knowledge of the world at large. Though she begins the first book naive and a bit ignorant, her willingness to tackle problems head-on quickly gains her wisdom and experience. My focus in this trilogy is her character development.

5) How long did it take you to write it?

Each book has taken 2 years. In my defense, this was done in conjunction with work and going back to school for a Master’s.

6) Did you learn anything from the project?

I learned a tremendous lot. First, I did a lot of research regarding the mythical beings in the story (such as curupira, ciguapa, etc). I honed my writing skills, as would be expected, but also learned to format for both ebooks and paperbacks. I learned a bit of marketing (still in progress). I learned to not only accept but actually appreciate criticism. I was initially a bit afraid of feedback from beta readers, for example, but learned to really appreciate it and take criticism as a way to improve my storytelling as opposed to taking it personally. I also learned (and am still learning) the value of a disciplined long-term mindset. Writing a book means committing to writing things down, even if I’m going to delete the later. Little by little, the book will eventually be finished.

7) Do you have an author website and/or blog? How about a book video?

Yes, I blog at www.elfmastery.com. I do not yet have the editing wherewithall to make a book video. 

8) Do you have any success tips to pass on to fellow authors? How about any great editors/cover artists?

Success tips? Not yet. My proudest moment so far is that Piers Anthony reviewed my books for his newsletter. All I had to do was ask. So, don’t be shy to put yourself out there. And don’t be afraid of rejection either! That paralyzes people into never getting anything done.

9) What genres do you like to read? Are you open to reading new authors and reviewing their work?

Fiction-wise I prefer fantasy/sci-fi, but I’ve also read and enjoyed a lot of classical fiction (ie. Paradise Lost, Shakespeare, classical myths, etc). I like some non-fiction, but don’t read a ton. House in the Sky by Amanda Lindhout was a life-changer for me. I like history but not usually historical fiction. I also read science magazines and journals, even if I don’t always understand them. I have a journal written by cognitive psychologists about literature and it’s amazing.

10) What is your favorite book of all time and why?

Tough. The books that have impacted me the most growing up were probably The Chronicles of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander. However, I don’t know if I loved them the most at my age. I like Terry Pratchett. His world-building and characters are a lot of fun. Again, House in the Sky affected me on an emotional level more than most books I’ve read.

11) Fun Question: Do you have any pets? If so, what kind?

I do not. I had a Siamese cat when I was young. If I were to get a pet now, I think I’d like a turtle. Or a platypus, but that’s just dreaming.

12) Fun Question 2: Do you own an electronic reading device? If so, what kind and how do you like it?

No. I don’t even have a smartphone. I prefer reading on paper, or audiobooks for long drives.

Interview with Nathan Ayersman, Author of The Dragon’s Rising

Hello,

I’m pleased to bring you this interview with Nathan Ayersman, author for The Dragon’s Rising.

Please enjoy!

Interview:

1) What is your author name and in what state do you live (or country if not in the US)?

I am Nathan Ayersman and I live in Maryland

2) What is the title of your newest book and what is the genre?

My newest book is my debut novel The Dragon’s Rising. It’s a fantasy novel and the first book in a series.

3) What is the book about?

The book follows Falkier Inalumin, a royal court scribe who had been falsely imprisoned for several years. One night, a mysterious stranger appears to aid in his escape and he is informed that he has been chosen to wield a sword imbued with the power of the Dragon Ancient. He is tasked with locating other pieces of a suit of armor, each piece imbued with the power of another Ancient, which will allow him to defeat Rakar Gorxand, the Ancients’ chosen one from hundreds of years ago who became corrupted. During the course of The Dragon’s Rising, Falkier joins a mercenary guild, learns a style of swordsmanship which allows him to sense his surroundings, and challenges a key player in Rakar Gorxands forces.

4) Where did you come up with the idea?

The initial idea behind this story came from a doodle I drew on the back of a writing assignment in the seventh grade of a sword with a hilt in the shape of a black dragon’s head. From there, I expanded the idea of multiple weapons or pieces of armor with their own powers which need to be gathered together. The universe the whole series is meant to exist in was gradually developed over time and a few false-starts to write from middle school through high school.

5) How long did it take you to write it?

The first two to three chapters were originally written during the first year of my undergraduate education. However, I re-wrote them my first year of veterinary school and the rest of the story was written over my four years of veterinary school in Grenada and the first two-and-a-half years of my career as a veterinarian. There were many long pauses between chapters written. Hopefully, now that I’ve made the accomplishment of getting an entire book written and published, I will be able to write the next installment more quickly.

6) Did you learn anything from the project?

I learned that I was capable of writing a coherent story and the early feedback that I have been getting from people who have read my book seems to imply that I can also write a story that people enjoy. From a more mechanical aspect, I learned how to format a manuscript, deal with being rejected by a publisher, and learned how to motivate myself to write.

7) Do you have an author website and/or blog? How about a book video?

I have a Facebook page promoting my work (https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAyersman) and I also have a page on Goodreads (https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19475726.Nathan_Ayersman).

8) Do you have any success tips to pass on to fellow authors? How about any great editors/cover artists?

I think the main tip I would give to someone who intends to try to write a story is to be open to getting ideas from all sorts of places and write those ideas down as soon as you can to avoid forgetting them. I have a document on the flash drive where I keep my writing that is simply called ‘Miscellany’ where I write down various ideas for characters or events, objects that I might want to include, and speeches or phrases that I want to try to work in somewhere. The ideas behind these ideas have come from movies like The Man With The Iron Fists, television shows like Avatar The Last Airbender, classical literature, church sermons, and even a historical reenactment at Colonial Williamsburg. Another key to success would be ensuring you proofread your work and have someone else proofread your work. I had Cara Flannery at Fluky Fiction copyedit my novel for me and she did a great job picking out misused words and helping me address some ideas which were not fully fleshed out.

9) What genres do you like to read? Are you open to reading new authors and reviewing their work?

I read predominantly fantasy novels, though I have read and enjoyed memoirs (specifically All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot because everyone expects a veterinarian to have read that), historical fiction, the Bruce Cameron “Dog’s Purpose” books, and a few books relating to the research surrounding smells. The smelling books were predominantly due to me lacking the sense of smell, a condition called anosmia. I am open to reading new authors and giving my input on their work on things that could be either improved or expanded upon.

10) What is your favorite book of all time and why?

That’s a difficult choice for me to make since I have so many authors whose work I appreciate for different reasons. I think I would have to give some acknowledgment to The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan (may he rest in peace) since it started one of my first forays into the realm of epic fantasy through the Wheel of Time series. I was drawn in by the diversity he gave his world, the idea of power slowly corrupting you, and the idea that the side characters can get to have their own adventures. You should not be surprised to find some themes from that series sprinkled about in my writing.

11) Fun Question: Do you have any pets? If so, what kind?

Yes, I have a cat named Ghost. She’s a white cat whom I adopted from the veterinary clinic where I work on Halloween and who has a tendency to disappear. I would have named her Geist but realized that Geist is a masculine noun in German. My significant other has her own cat, an orange tabby named Howard, but the two of them are not quite the most compatible housemates.

12) Fun Question 2: Do you own an electronic reading device? If so, what kind and how do you like it?

I do not. When I was in veterinary school, I did much of my pleasure reading via the Kindle app on my phone and tablet. It doesn’t compare to hold a physical book in my hand, but it was worth having the extra space and reduced weight in my suitcases which were being lugged back and forth to Grenada.

*As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Interview with S.J. Hartland, Author of The Last Seer King

Hello,

I’m pleased to bring you this interview with S.J. Hartland, author of The Last Seer King (Book 2 in the Shadow Sword Series).

Enjoy!

-Vincent Lowry

 

Interview

1) What is your author name and in what state do you live (or country if not in the US)?

S.J. Hartland. I’m an Aussie author and live on the Darling Downs, Queensland. Qld is the “Sunshine State,” but the Darling Downs is high up, cold in winter and one of those rare Australian places that really has four seasons. At the moment, it’s still winter and the drought is ongoing, so it’s a bit miserable. Bring on spring!

2) What is the title of your newest book and what is the genre?

I’ve just brought out the second in my epic fantasy Shadow Sword series, The Last Seer King. 

3) What is the book about?

The series follows a young warrior bonded to ancient gods who knows his fate is to die young in a malign battle against an inhuman foe. But fate has something far more lethal in mind. 

The second book is a blend of dark magic, obsession, betrayal, dangerous prophecy, and the forgiveness found through friendship. It’s about how secrets give others power over us.

4) Where did you come up with the idea?

In The 19^th Bladesman, the first in the series, the initial idea was, what if you had to kill a stranger to save someone you love, but the person you had to kill protected the realm. It moved on from there. 

5) How long did it take you to write it?

I wrote the first three together over eight or so years. I wasn’t sure where I was “at” with them, or whether they were any good, or even if I could write, so I approached an amazing mentor, Dr Kathryn Heyman of the Australian Writers Mentoring Program. She was incredible. I’m a journalist, and Kathryn taught me what journalists don’t know about writing a novel – turns out, that’s quite a bit. 

The third is about to be edited, so hopefully it is out early next year. 

6) Did you learn anything from the project?

Where to start! Almost at once, I knew I wanted to go “indy.” That meant learning where to find an editor, a cover designer, how to market etc etc, or at least try to market! I’ve taken some of Mark Dawson’s courses and they’ve been really useful.  

7) Do you have an author website and/or blog?

www.sjhartland.com

Author S J Hartland | The home of The 19th Bladesman his duty is to die young, but fate has something far more lethal in mind… the 19th bladesman and the last seer king: first two books in a new epic fantasy series out now www.sjhartland.com

8) Do you have any success tips to pass on to fellow authors? How about any great editors/cover artists?

I’ve been really happy with Red Adept for editing, love the covers Deranged Doctor does for the series, and I’d be lost without Jason and Marina of Polgarus Studio for formatting.  

9) What genres do you like to read? Are you open to reading new authors and reviewing their work?

I love fantasy, obviously, but sometimes I just crave a thriller or a cozy mystery. I read less than I should these days; balancing a full-time job with writing after work is a bit crazy. 

10) What is your favorite book of all time and why?

I’m not sure I can pick one. I love Dune and Michael Moorcock’s Elric series, as well as Australian author CS Pacat’s Captive Prince series. I devoured Gregg Hurwitz’s Orphan X series. He managed to make me care what happened to the main character after two pages. There’s such a vulnerability to Evan (Orphan X) that I love being in that world. 

Interview with Peter W. Blaisdell, Author of The Lords of Powder (A Miami Fantasy)

Today’s interview is with Peter W. Blaisdell, author of The Lords of Powder.

Please enjoy!

-Vincent Lowry

Interview:

1) What is your author name and in what state do you live (or country if not in the US)?

My author (and actual) name is: Peter W Blaisdell. I live in California.

2) What is the title of your newest book and what is the genre?

Title: The Lords of Powder.

Genre(s): Urban Fantasy, Supernatural Suspense 

3) What is the book about?

THE LORDS OF POWDER is a fast-paced, blend of modern fantasy, historical fiction and suspense.

 

In the story, Bradan is a 1500 year old magician, but only looks 30 years of age. Fifteen centuries has been plenty of time to get into trouble and he’s at various times fled Vikings and joined court-life in medieval Andalusia while trying avoid being strangled in the Caliph’s dungeon. Things haven’t improved much in 1978 Miami where he drives a haunted Volvo station wagon, keeps a high-strung wolf, and tries to woo a gifted musician. However, he needs money for his lifestyle. Lots of money. Bradan uses his magical talents to organize a lucrative smuggling ring, but success brings him to the attention of violent rivals as well as narcotics detectives, and the DEA. Will his modest enchantment skills and sardonic sense of humor save him? And can he balance the profitability of smuggling with its consequences for his romantic relationship, humanity, and survival?

 

As one Goodreads reviewer noted about THE LORDS OF POWDER, “Peter Blaisdell’s second novel – a prequel to his first (THE LORDS OF OBLIVION) – is a fast paced and exciting read. The dialog is realistic and often humorous. Even if one hasn’t read the first novel, it would be easy to become invested in his characters. And who doesn’t secretly want a pet wolf?”

 

Another reviewer stated, “This was very good. Very good dialog and entertaining plot. The author has obvious talent, and I’ll check out his other book. I hope he has more in for us.”

 

THE LORDS OF POWDER is the second work in this urban, noir fantasy series, which includes the previously published THE LORDS OF OBLIVION. Each book can be read as a stand-alone story, but they work really well together.

4) Where did you come up with the idea?

Themes are always what comes to me first even before character, setting and plot. So…for THE LORDS OF POWDER, besides wanting to write a really fun read, I wanted to touch on borders including geographic, psychological and emotional boundaries. People move around a lot in this story – either willingly or not – so it was interesting as an author to think about all the internal and external frontiers that they’re forced to cross. On a related point, I also wanted to write about compromises, My story starts in 1978 Miami and Bradan, the main character, has aspirations about gaining a lavish life-style. However, just what is he willing to give up to achieve the life that he thinks he wants? Along these same lines, my main character has led a very long life (the story has flashbacks to Viking-era England and medieval Spain) and he’s made any number of choices and compromises along the way and I wanted to touch on how shaped what he did in Miami. Plus, it’s just a cool thing to be able to set part of my story in Andalusia and Lindisfarne! 

5) How long did it take you to write it?

I’d thought about the themes, plot, and characters for the book for quite a while before putting fingers on keyboard, but once I started writing, it only took about four months to complete a 100,000 word draft manuscript. However, I’m a careful editor and I also hired an outside copy editor and proof-reader. That added another two months – I wanted to do a high-quality job at this ‘cleanup’ stage and catch all the continuity and syntactical errors long before the final book was published and got to the reader.

6) Did you learn anything from the project?

Great question! I could write another whole book on lessons learned in authoring THE LORDS OF POWDER and THE LORDS OF OBLIVION (my first book). My website has postings on some of this, but briefly, here are some key lessons that apply whether you get an agent and traditionally publish or self-publish your book: 1) Finish your book! Without that, nothing else can happen. 2) Be supper thoughtful in the editing/proofing process. Almost every aspiring writer has great ideas and can slap together a first draft, but what separates mediocre writers from good ones is how carefully their work has been edited. 3) Plan your marketing. If you traditionally publish, don’t just assume that the publisher will magically do this all for you. No one knows your work better than you so develop a marketing plan that considers: who’s your audience? how will they know about your book? what platform(s) will sell your book? should you advertise? how will you get quality reviewers? what will make your book stand out from the literally thousands of other titles in your genre that hit the markets every year?  

7) Do you have an author website and/or blog?

blaisdellliteraryenterprises.com

On my site, of course I have the usual links to my books, but I also try to share thoughts about the writing process and book marketing. I’d love to have folks stop by!

8) Do you have any success tips to pass on to fellow authors? How about any great editors/cover artists?

Per my responses above, my success tips include editing your work carefully and being prepared to expend effort on marketing your work. I had a great cover designer: Heidi North.

9) What genres do you like to read? Are you open to reading new authors and reviewing their work?

I have very broad tastes in reading in both fiction and non-fiction and, as Stephen King noted, the best way to improve yourself as a writer is to read other writers – and think about what you liked and didn’t like about their work – that is, don’t just read for entertainment, critique what you’re reading. ! I do read new authors, though unfortunately, I have little time to do formal reviews of their work – I’m writing my own stuff! In the Science Fiction and Fantasy space, I get a lot of my recommendations for new writers from Locus magazine.  

10) What is your favorite book of all time and why?

The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway. It’s got really interesting themes, conflicted, complex characters – almost anti-heroes – and a post-war setting in Spain and Paris. This was his first famous book and it was early enough in his career so that it has an edge of self-mockery which his later stuff lacked. 

*As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The Lords of Powder by Peter W. Blaisdell

THE LORDS OF POWDER is a fast-paced, blend of modern fantasy, historical fiction and suspense.
In the story, Bradan is a 1500 year old magician, but only looks 30 years of age. Fifteen centuries has been plenty of time to get into trouble and he’s at various times fled Vikings and joined court-life in medieval Andalusia while trying avoid being strangled in the Caliph’s dungeon. Things haven’t improved much in 1978 Miami where he drives a haunted Volvo station wagon, keeps a high-strung wolf, and tries to woo a gifted musician. However, he needs money for his lifestyle. Lots of money. Bradan uses his magical talents to organize a lucrative smuggling ring, but success brings him to the attention of violent rivals as well as narcotics detectives, and the DEA. Will his modest enchantment skills and sardonic sense of humor save him? And can he balance the profitability of smuggling with its consequences for his romantic relationship, humanity, and survival?
As one Goodreads reviewer noted about THE LORDS OF POWDER, “Peter Blaisdell’s second novel – a prequel to his first (THE LORDS OF OBLIVION) – is a fast paced and exciting read. The dialog is realistic and often humorous. Even if one hasn’t read the first novel, it would be easy to become invested in his characters. And who doesn’t secretly want a pet wolf?”
Another reviewer stated, “This was very good. Very good dialog and entertaining plot. The author has obvious talent, and I’ll check out his other book. I hope he has more in for us.”
THE LORDS OF POWDER is the second work in this urban, noir fantasy series, which includes the previously published THE LORDS OF OBLIVION. Each book can be read as a stand-alone story, but they work really well together.

 

*As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.