APRI PRESENTS: Interview with Author Anna Kristell

BIO FOR ANNA KRISTELL (SWEET)

Anna Kristell is a small town gal from Southern Indiana with a passion for romance. She has lived in Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas, but returned to Indiana in 2005 where she resides with her husband. An avid romance reader since her teens, it has always been her dream to create love stories of her own.

When she is not writing, she can be found at her day job in the billing department of a local community mental health center, reading, traveling, or spending time with family and friends.

BIO FOR ISABELLA KOLE (SPICY)

Isabella Kole lives in southern Indiana, where she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Always an avid romance reader, she began writing several years ago and although she has several sweet romances published under a different pen name, Accepting His Terms is the first erotic romance in her collection.

When not writing, Isabella can be found traveling around signing books and meeting her readers, working at her day job, or simply enjoying life.

APRI: What's your writing process. How did your book(s) get from idea to something submission worthy?

AK: I work a full time day job, so my writing process is somewhat erratic, to say the least. Ideas come to me at all times and when I have time, they become books. I usually write out an outline and the blurb first, from there I begin the book, a lot of times straying from the original outline during the writing process. To get to submission worthy status, I have beta readers who go over the book, word by word, with a fine tooth comb. I go over it myself several times before submitting it.

APRI: When did the fact that you sold become "real" to you?

AK: Probably the day I received my first book cover. Seeing my title, my characters and my name on that cover spoke volumes.

APRI: If you had one specific piece of advice for people pursuing publication, what would it be?

AK: I say it all the time to aspiring authors. "Don't give up." It took several years for my first idea to actually become a published book. I hit the ground running after that, but only because I never gave up. I researched publishers, I submitted and I waited. I was rejected. I researched more publishers and I submitted. I wrote another book and I submitted to another publisher. Three days later, I had a contract for the second book. One week later, the contract came for the first book from a different pub. And so it began...

APRI: What's the hardest part of the writing process?

AK: For me, I'd have to say it's coming up with a believable conflict. All romance storylines have to have a conflict, something keeping the hero and heroine apart. I can dream up all kinds of scenarios, but are they going to be believable to the reader? I have an active imagination, but will others like the idea? Luckily, I have people to bounce my ideas off of. They don't hesitate to tell me if an idea stinks.

APRI: What is erotica all about?

AK: There is a debate about the difference between pure erotica and erotica romance. What I write, under my second pen name, is erotic romance. Those stories delve deeper into the sexual relationship of the couple. My sweet stories leave the sex scenes behind the bedroom door, so to speak, and are implied. If described, it is in mild terms, more of a sensual scene than an erotic scene.


APRI: Why did you start writing erotic fiction?

AK: I belonged to a group on Facebook, where most of the authors were erotic romance authors. They, along with my publisher, encouraged me to try it. I tossed the idea back and forth for a while and finally agreed to try one book, under a different pen name. I struggled with it, had a lot of help from other authors and from my publisher, and finally finished it. It was my intention there would never be another. The book sold more than any of my other books (at that time) combined from the get go.

APRI: Do you think anyone can write erotic fiction?

AK: No, I don't. For some, it comes as naturally as breathing. For others, it is pure agony. You have to feel comfortable with what you're writing. It took awhile for me to feel comfortable with it. It was only with the help and support of many of my author friends and a wonderful and patient publisher that I was able to overcome that feeling and to on to create erotic romance stories that people actually want to read. I currently have six out and a seventh one submitted. They have done extremely well.

APRI: What's your favorit line from any movie?

AK: "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn." Rhett Butler, Gone With Wind.

APRI: If you were to create a slogan for your life, what would it be?

AK: "Set aside a moment in each day for words, whether read or written, and no matter what the day brings, there is that one brief moment of pleasure to see you through anything."

APRI: What was the unique about the setting of the book and how did it enhance or take away from your story?

AK: All of my stories take place either in a place I have lived or visited. I think that enhances the story, because I know the area firsthand. I can name real places of interest, which I feel makes the story more unbelievable.


APRI: When did you first start writing and when did you finish your first book?

AK: I started writing as a child, but my first novel began in the year 2000. It was stopped several times and finished in 2008, put on the back burner, and picked up again in 2012. I rewrote it and I received a contract for it in August of that year.

APRI: How did you come up with the title?

AK: My titles sometimes just come to me and other times, my daughter or one of my beta readers come up with an idea. My first book, Crossroad to Love, was decided upon because each of the four female characters in the story was at a crossroad in her life. The rest of the books in that series have the word Road in them to go along with the first one. Hence, my logo, Road to Romance.

APRI: Are the certain characters you would like to go back to, or is there a theme or idea you'd love to work with?

AK: I love to go back to my characters. My first book became the first in The Fab Five series, published with LazyDay Publishing. Another favorite of mine, Remember Our Promise, became the first in the Promises Trilogy, released by Rebel Ink Press. I recently wrote a ghost story novella, which will be the first in a series for Mystic Books. Even my spicy side turned her first book into a trilogy. As far as a theme, I'm seriously considering trying something with a racing theme...hot race car driver or crew chief...

APRI: How do you feel about ebooks vs. print books and alternative vs. conventional publishing?

AK: Another great debate! I prefer print books for my own reading pleasure, however, I understand the concept behind ebooks. It's much more economical to publish an ebook, and many people prefer reading on a device. When traveling, it's much easier to pack a week's worth of reading onto a device rather than take along a handful of paperbacks.There are pros and cons to both.

As far as the publishing part of your question, wow. That's a biggie. For me, I waited so long and worked so hard to get picked up by a publisher, the idea of self publishing doesn't appeal to me. That's not to say, I won't try it at some point in the future. I've considered it and I'm sure I will again.

There are a lot of successful authors who self publish. Right now, I write for four different publishers and I don't have time to even think about self publishing, which entails a lot of work. In a few years, I hope to retire from my day job, and devote my days to writing full time. At that time, I may revisit the idea, as I would have more time to devote to the details. In a nutshell, what works for one doesn't always work for another, so I think each author should do what works best for him or her.

APRI: What do you think is the future of reading/writing?

AK: Audio books are becoming very popular. I think we may see an increase in the sales of those. People will always read and they will always write. Genre preferences will change from time to time. What's selling the most right now may not sell as well two years from now. It's important to stay informed and to know what your readers want.

APRI: What did you find most useful in learning to write? What was your reason behind writing under two different pen names - one for romance and one for erotica romance (ex: were you planning to write multiple fiction genres)? Why?

AK: My reason simple. I already had a following as Anna Kristell, many of whom were family and friends. Some of Anna's readers would be offended by erotic romance as opposed to what they were used to from Anna. So, if I was going to enter the erotic world, it would have to be under a different name. That way, my readers would have a choice. If they wanted sweet romance, they knew to purchase Anna's books. If they liked spicier type of story, they went to Isabella Kole. It's no secret that Anna and Izzy are the same, although some folks don't realize it. Isabella has always been promoted as the "spicy side of Anna Kristell."

APRI: What question have you always wanted to be asked during an interview? How would you answer that question?

AK: Q: Where do you see yourself in five years? A: In five years, I hope to be splitting my time between writing full time and traveling to author events, signings and conferences all over the country. It would be a dream, combining my two loves, writing and traveling. The conferences I've been lucky enough to attend in the past two years have given me access to valuable workshops and the opportunity to meet and become friends with a multitude of readers, authors, publishers, bloggers, reviewers, models and more. I've visited cities I never thought I'd ever see. If I had the time, I would see so many more. Writing has opened up a whole new world for me. I love every aspect of it, from creating the story, to stalking the rankings on release day and finding that I am bestseller, to sharing it with people from all over the world. To meet a reader at a signing who tells me she has read every one of my books melts my heart. Of course every author dreams of hitting the NYT or USA Today bestseller lists. Yes, that would be awesome, a dream come true, but even if it never happens for me, the fact that there are people out there anxiously awaiting release day for an Anna or Isabella book makes it all worthwhile.

 

PLACES TO FIND ANNA KRISTELL & ISABELLA KOLE

 ANNA KRISTELL

http://www.annakristellromance.com

http://www.amazon.com/Anna-Kristell/e/B00B1LK14W

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Anna-Kristell-Romance-Author/267879939980573

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6894424.Anna_Kristell

http://www.twitter.com/AnnaKristell

http://www.annakristell6.wordpress.com

 https://www.linkedin.com/pub/ anna - kristell-author/64/a38/b68

https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/annakristell2

https://www.pinterest.com/annakristell/

ISABELLA KOLE

http://www.amazon.com/Isabella-Kole/e/B00FQ1X8KM

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7334905.Isabella_Kole

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Isabella-Kole-Author/580591041984962

https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/IsabellaKole

APRI PRESENTS: Interview with Lyn Horner

 About Author Lyn Horner

Lyn Horner resides in Fort Worth, Texas - "Where the West Begins" - with her husband and several very spoiled cats. Trained in the visual arts, Lyn worked as a fashion illustrator and art instructor before she took up writing. She loves crafting passionate love stories, both historical and contemporary. Lyn also enjoys reading, gardening, visiting with family and friends, and cuddling her furry, four-legged children. The author's Texas Devlins series blends authentic Old West settings, steamy romance and a glimmer of the mysterious. This series has earned multiple awards and nominations, including Crowned Heart reviews and a Rone Award nomination for DEAREST IRISH from InD'Tale Magazine.

Lyn is a contributor to Rawhide 'n Roses, a Western Romance Anthology. This book is a finalist in the 2015 RONE Awards anthology category. Lyn is proud to be in company with such a talented group of authors.

Jumping from the American Old West to the present day, Lyn is now hard at work on her romantic suspense series, Romancing the Guardians. These books combine her trademark flashes of psychic phenomena with Irish folklore and a chilling apocalyptic theme. Along the way, readers will be treated to thunderous action, terrifying suspense and sizzling romance.

 

APRI: In 5 words, please describe your 'Romance Writing Style'. Steamy, sweet, erotic, Happy Ending – take that last one however you want.

LH: Steamy, suspenseful, fast-paced, thought-provoking, cross genre

APRI: Do your leading men come from any place particular?

LH: Several come from Texas, but not all. The hero of my current project is Colombian.

APRI: What do you do in your downtim?

LH: I read, watch TV, garden and visit with friends and family.

APRI: What genre are your books?

LH: My books are a mix of genres. The Texas Devlins series is western historical romance with a paranormal sub theme, as in psychic siblings. Romancing the Guardians, the series I'm currently writing is contemporary romantic suspense with my trademark psychic characters plus an unlying prophetic (apocalyptic) theme.

APRI: What drew you to this genre?

LH: A combination of factors influence my writing. First, I strongly believe in psychic abilities, having experienced precognitive dreams when younger. Second, I have always loved western historical romance, leading me to write the Texas Devlin books. Third, I'm also enthralled by all things Irish. The Devlin siblings are children of Irish immigrants to the U.S. and are descended from Druid ancestors. Irish mythology is also the basis for Romancing the Guardians. The seven chosen ones trace their lineage to Tuatha Dé Dannan seers who passed down prophesies of the distant future which have been preserved and guarded through uncounted generations.

APRI: While you were writing, which character did you connect with the most?

LH: Probably Lara from Rescuing Lara, Romancing the Guardians (Book One). She is partially disabled as the result of a car accident that killed her uncle, the former High Guardian. I am disabled due to a hereditary disorder, so a lot of things Lara goes through stem from my own life experiences.

APRI: Do you think that the cover plays an important part in the buying process?

LH: Absolutely. I started out doing my own book covers because I have a background in visual arts. However, I cam to realize I'm not a cover designer. Now, I hire professionals.

APRI: Do you have a special time to write or how is your day structured?

LH: My best writing times are afternoons and evenings. Mornings are usually devoted to answering email, posting on and twitter, and occassionally writing blog posts.

APRI: Do you have any advice for other authors?

LH: First, learn your craft. Join a writers group that focuses on your preferred genre and a critique group. I learned more about writing from my crit partners than anyone else. Attend workshops and conferences if you can. Hire an editor for your finished book if possible and be willing to make changes if they suggest it. Flexibility is important!

APRI: What is your favorite motivational phrase?

LH: "Put butt in chair and write!"

APRI: What is your favorite book and why?

LH: Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. I love the description of 18th century Scotland, the intricate plot and most of all the main characters, Jamie and Claire.

APRI: Where do you see publishing going in the future?

LH: E-book Publishing will continue to grow. It's inevitable in our electronic age.

APRI: What's the best part of being a publishsed author?

LH: I love getting feedback from readers who enjoy my books.

APRI: What's the worst?

LH: Book marketing has been my weak spot for years. My goal is to improve my promotional abilities.

APRI: What's next for you.? Can you give us any clues about what you're currently working on?

LH: I am writing Capturing Gabriel, Romancing the Guardians (Book Three.) It will be released this fall. I may also write a novella for a western Christmas anthology. Not sure yet.

APRI: Can you tell us something readers might find surprising about you?

LH: I once owned six cats. Correction, they owned me. I wrote a memoir about them titled Six Cats In My Kitchen.

APRI: As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

LH: I wanted to be an artist, specifically a fashion illustrator. My dad gave me a painting kit when I was about 10 or 11 years old, starting me on the art school and a career illustration and art instruction. However, I had to give up the visual arts as my hands became unsteady. That's when I turned to writing as a creative outlet.

APRI: What makes you smile?

LH: Petting my feline children ( I have three now) and cuddling my grandkids. Humor in a book or TV program can crack me up, but only if it grows out of drama. I'm not a fan of slapstick comedy.

APRI: What question have you always wanted to be asked during an interview? How would you answer that question?

LH: Question: Why did you give up on being traditionally published? / Answer: Because I got tired of butting my head against the stone wall of New York publishing houses. I was represented by two different agents who liked my work, but they had no luck selling it. I became so discouraged that I pretty much gave up until Amazon introduced Kindle Direct Publishing. My friend and editor, Sharla Rae, pushed me into giving it a try. That was five years ago. During that time I have pubbed eight books and received numerous awards and nominations. I'm also a contributor to a western romance anthology, Rawhide 'n Roses, a finalist in the 2015 Rone Awards contest sponsored by InD'Tale magazine.

For more information about Lyn Horner see links below:

Lyn Horner on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Lyn-Horner/e/B004CY506Y/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

Lyn Horner's website:

http://www.lynhorner.com

Lyn Horner on Twitter:

https://twitter.com/lynhornerauthor

Lyn Horner on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lyn-Horner/161787403863487

Lyn Horner on Goodreads:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4639926.Lyn_Horner

Lyn Horner on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/pub/lyn-horner/38/16b/136

Lyn Horner (contributing author) on Sweethearts of the West:

http://sweetheartsofthewest.blogspot.com/

APRI PRESENTS: Interview with Author James Glass

 About Author James Glass

James C. Glass achieved the rank of Command Master Chief before retiring after 22 years in the United States Navy. He is a graduate of the Senior Enlisted Academy and the Command Master Chief School. This is his first book. He was born in Pensacola, Florida and enlisted in the Navy in 1989. He completed tours aboard the USS Mobile Bay

(CG 53), USS Yosemite (AD 19), USS Monterey (CG 61), and USS Thomas S. Gates (CG 51). He also completed tours at Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activity, Mayport, Florida, Naval Air Station Brunswick, Maine, and Mobile Security Detachment Two-three in Portsmouth, VA. Finally, James completed two tours in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

After retiring from the Navy, he and his family moved back to Florida. He's been married for 22 years and has two children. James and his wife welcomed their first grandson in November. James has a Bachelor's Degree in Applied Management from Grand Canyon University.

APRI: First off, tell us how you got into writing crime fiction?

JG: I was an investigator in the United States Navy. After I retired, I felt the urge to write. Since my background is in criminal justice, I started writing crime thrillers.

APRI: What do you think crime fiction lovers are going to love about your book?

JG: To be able to delve into the story and get lost with the characters. The killer is a psychopath who is very charming until you see what he's really about. The protagonist is a detective with great insight and the innate ability to track serial killers. This is the kind of book that will keep you up late at night.

APRI: What inspired you to write crime fiction?

JG: The love of writing keeps me going, I have so many stories floating in my head, it's difficult to figure out which one to write next. I have found when I finish writing a novel, I have to start off writing three separate stories. As they progress, the one that tugs at me the hardest wins out.

APRI: Are you a crime fiction reader? Who are you favorite authors?

JG: Yes. I've been reading crime fiction for years. My favorite authors are Nelson DeMille, Michael Connelly, and Patricia Cornwell. I've recently started taking a liking to Julia Spencer-Fleming. I also enjoy Stephen King's Mr. Mercedes series.

APRI: Which music, books or films have floated your boat recently?

JG: I love music. Doesn't matter what type or generation as long as it's good. I don't watch many movies. The last one was Gone Girl. I love books though. I recently read The Bone Tree by Greg Ilse. What a great storyteller.

APRI: When did you know that you were born to be a writer?

JG: Recently. I started writing shortly before retiring from the Navy. Once I started I couldn't stop. For me, writing isn't a hobby, it's something I have to do everyday. I go a little stir crazy if I don't write after a few days.

APRI: If you were a traveling genre salesman, going from door to door and trying to interest people in a specific genre, what would be your sales pitch for CRIME FICTION?

JG: Crime fiction isn't for the weak-minded or faint of heart. They're the stories you share with your friends to keep them awake at night.

APRI: Is crime in something you have researched, studied for your book? Is it something you have to do, or does your imagination provide enough fuel for the fire to write crime fiction?

JG: Although I have experience as an investigator, I still research my writing. For my last book I solicited the help of a medical examiner and a retired FBI agent. They provided a wealth of expertise. Although it's a work of fiction, as a writer, you must stay true to the technical aspects of the story.

APRI: What's the most difficult part of being an author?

JG: For me, it's starting a new story. When I complete a novel, I go a little crazy from not having a new story to delve into. To counteract this feeling of craziness, I start three stories. As they begin to take of, the one that captures my imagination the most wins.

APRI: What are you working on currently and do you have any upcoming projects you can tell us about?

JG: I just finished my third crime thriller, Things Not Forgotten. It's being read by several beta readers before I send it off to my editor. I'm currently working on three stories. We'll see which one wins out in a few weeks.

APRI: What conditions help you with your writing process?

JG: I have to be in an environment where I can delve into the story. It used to be that I had to be in my recliner at home with absolute solitude. Over the years, I've been able to hone the craft and although I still need solitude, I can write outside of the recliner.

APRI: What's the biggest mistake you've made as a writer?

JG: When I finished my first crime thriller, Things Left Behind, I joined a local writer's group. I had it in my head this was the greatest crime thriller ever told. Boy, was I wrong. As I read the first several chapters, the feedback I received by the group was anything that was wrong with writing, I had in my manuscript. Head hopping, first person mixed with third person. Grammatical errors. I could have let this discourage me and quit writing, but I humbled myself, rewrote the story and the end product was better than I imagined. What a great lesson to learn as a writer.

APRI: What do you do in your spare time?

JG: Read, spend time with the family, watch my grandson three days a week, run swim.

APRI: What do you hope people take away from your writing?

JG: To enjoy the ride.

APRI: Can you tell me about some of your strengths that really helped you in writing?

JG: I pull lots of information from life lessons. Most of my characters have some kind of trait, I used to draw them up from people I know, or people I've meet. I also have a great knack for dialogue. It helps to read it out loud.

APRI: How would you describe your writing style?

JG: That's a great question. I've never really thought about it. I guess it's a combination of Michael Connelly and Patricia Cornwell. Maybe a dash of Stephen King, but that might be a stretch.

APRI: What would be your ideal working environment?

JG: To make my living as a writer. If the income paid for my lifestyle, I'd love to be able to write full time. As it is, I write from 4-6 every morning and from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday.

APRI: Do you outline your stories before you write them or do you let the plot and characters lead the way?

JG: Sometimes I have an outline. Usually, the plot comes to me, I'll write some of the major pieces of the main story and save it as a file. Then the story unfolds. My stories are puzzled pieces I have to put together. I don't alway write the story in sequential chapters. Some chapters I write don't get used, and the ending always changes. The latter has happened three times.  Usuall, I write the ending about halfway through the story. By the time I get close to the end, it always changes. That's what's great about writing. The unexpected.

APRI: What do you love about writing?

JG: I love seeing the plot play out, the characters come to life and see what unfolds. It's exciting to see what happens, because the story is a living, breathing piece of work.

APRI: What do you hate about writing:?

JG: The second and third revisions to the story.

APRI: What is your advice for writers just starting out?

JG: Once you have a story in your head, start putting it on paper. Don't let it sit in the archives of your mind or the story will never get told. The first draft is just that. Write your story from start to finish and don't worry about it being perfect. No writer has ever written a perfect story on the first draft. This is where the revisions come into play.

Make sure you find a sanctuary to write. Distractions will hinder your ability to write. Also, find a local writer's group. They can provide great feedback.

APRI: What question have you always wanted to be asked during an interview? How would you answer that question?

JG: The previous question.

For more information about James Glass see links below:

James Glass on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/James-Glass/e/B00B1XI25K

James Glass on Good Reads:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7406701.James_Glass

James Glass on Smashwords:

http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/jamesglass

APRI PRESENTS: Interview with Author R.V. Johnson

For more years than he cares to recall, R.V. Johnson has wanted to write a good story – an epic tale chock full of wonder and imagination on a rich, planetary scale. He's wanted to show a fantastical adventure where the characters come as alive as the new world they travel through, one that he couldn't read fast enough to sate his hunger to discover what happens next, like he used to read. And he wants it for everyone. He hopes he has succeeded.

R.V. Johnson's “Beyond the Sapphire Gate” is a grand, epic fantasy with science fiction roots where two sisters and their father struggle with life's hardships as they hold the fate of a world in their flawed, unknowing hands.

Currently, he is writing the second in this series, and a science fiction novel. He writes that if you don't like imperfect, lovable characters struggling to use magic, telepathic canine-like creatures, Dark Lords, and Users of flowing magic both dark and light, then perhaps, this is not for you.

APRI: Was Science Fiction always your chosen genre?

RVJ: Fantasy and Science Fiction have always fascinated me, I love reading about wondrous worlds, high technology, the characters, and the way the magic works. If written well, one could believe such power is attainable. The great ones would end with me wishing for a power of my own.

APRI: Do you develop the world of a novel fully in your mind before beginning to write?

RVJ: Not fully for the first one in a series, though I do have a grand picture of it in my mind from the start, the cultures of the people, the technology or the lack of it, and how the magic system must work. There are rules powerful magic has to follow or the bad people would destroy the world it took the whole novel to build… in one paragraph. However, I did sketch out a map of the geography of Astura beforehand. It’s a rich, diverse world, I didn’t want to get lost.

APRI: What is the first book you read that made you think, “I have got to write something like this someday!”

RVJ: There were three and all of them series: J.R.R Tolkien’s The Lord of The Rings , Roger Zelazany’s The Chronicles of Amber , and Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Time . They raised my sense of wonder, imagination, and adventure, in that order.

APRI: Tell us a little bit about yourself. How long have you been writing? What genre do you write?

RVJ: I’ve written on and off for over eighteen years, (only working on it occasionally, as I focused on my children and their education after losing my wife eleven years ago) the last four years have seen steady writing, as much as my free time allowed. Most all of it is in the fantasy genre with some science fiction elements.

APRI: Who has influenced your writing the most?

RVJ:Besides the big three already mentioned David Eddings, Belgariad series, Anne McCaffrey, The Dragon Riders of Pern series, among others.

APRI: Where do you get your inspiration from?

RVJ: My family. I’ve always had a firm belief in family values.

APRI:   What inspired your first book?

RVJ: I used to tell stories to my late wife. Invariably, she's say, 'go on, you've got my attention', we'd talk until the sun began to rise.

APRI: If you couldn't be an author, what would your ideal career be?

RVJ: To own an island paradise resort.

APRI: Is there a message in your novel that you hope readers will grasp?

RVJ: Nothing specific, though I do hope to peak a sense of wonder.

APRI: Do you have a scene in the story that was your favorite to write?

RVJ: There were many. Three come to mind immediately. Early on this scene where Crystalyn first practices her symbol power as she's dying. A few chapters after that, Jade uses her ability on a newfound ally attempting to survive a dark place, a monstrous telepathic assault occurs soon after. Later on, Garn's amazing dance with his twin longswords flowed from my fingertips without much prompting; all were a joy to write.

APRI:  Tell us about your creative process, from initial idea to published manuscript.

RVJ: The initial idea began two decades ago, though back then, I hadn't expected it to take place on two worlds. It began again four years ago by wanting something more traditional to read. There haven't been any great epic fantasy series available in the third person perspective lately and I'd read those, so I developed Beyond the Sapphire Gate from notes on the three main characters. After four years of writing, revising, attending writing groups, and revising again, I wrote an ending that didn't change much, and hired an editor. Then the manuscript went through a range of proofreaders and beta readers. After that, I queried a mix of around ten agents and publishers but quickly lost patience with those that didn't bother to send a polite 'I'll pass' letter. I published it solo.

APRI: How do you feel about the popularity of ebooks?

RVJ: I still love printed books. E-readers are nice too, though I do see a prosperity to store books and not have time to read most of them. I have done it.

APRI: Is there and aspect - of writing you don't like?

RVJ: Yes, and I'll make a supposition most authors - bestsellers do not - do like marketing, I don't. Nevertheless, it is a part of publishing, traditional and independent.

APRI: Do you have any strange writing habits (like standing on your head or writing in the shower)?

RVJ: Suddenly speaking furiously into my phone's voice recorder has earned me many looks...even some frightened ones, if I happened to be describing a creature at the time.

APRI: What is something you hope to accomplish before you die?

RVJ: Seeing Beyond the Sapphire Gate and the rest of the series in 'The Flower of Power' progress to cinema, I love adventure movies with epic struggles for survival. Though convincing The Lord of the Rings producer Peter Jackson to do it might create hardship on whomever I can con into asking. I love those movies, they were exceptionally well done.

APRI: What literary character is most like you?

RVJ: The roguish male who's never fully made it to adulthood.

APRI: Do you have a favorite quote that inspires you?

RVJ: I wrote one for own inspiration and shared it with the world: "Strive to be the gem the dragon hoards".

APRI: What are the most important elements of good writing? According to you, what tools are must-haves for writers?

RVJ: Conflict, pacing, amazing characters, and a lush world. Believe in yourself, Write every day.

APRI: What do you in your spare time?

RVJ: Spending time with family. Even if it's writing on the laptop in the same room or outdoors. I've learned to multitask.

APRI: What makes you smile?

RVJ: When a reader mentions how much they loved the novel. When fans discuss the story, I can't stop smiling; connecting with the readers is the greatest.

APRI: What question have you always wanted to be asked during an interview? How would you answer that question?

RVJ: What fans of certain novel(s) would also enjoy reading your book(s)? There are many besides those mentioned in the interview: Terry Brooks, The Sword of Shannara series, Edgar Rice Burroughs, of Mars series, slightly older Harry Potter fans, and all books in epic fantasy rich in imagination to the end. 

For more information about R.V. Johnson see links below:

R.V. Johnson on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/R.V.-Johnson/e/B00URV7U64

R.V. Johnson on twitter:

http://www.twitter.com/R_V_Johnson

R.V. Johnson's direct link to website:

http://www.authorrvjohnson.com

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APRI PRESENTS: Interview with Author Clarrissa Lee Moon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - CLARRISSA LEE MOON

Clarrissa Lee Moon would like to live like a tumbleweed going from different states often. She's an avid reader and owner of more books and DVD's than any used book shop; she also enjoys Martial arts, swimming, riding Harleys and raising pure bred Japanese Chins. She has written as a journalist for two E-magazines and is the author for Memoirs of The Nightwolves Series and Celeste's Nites Novelettes. She considers herself unique, unusual and unconquerable!

APRI: What does your writing process look like?

CLM: First, I get settled with snacks, coffee, writing pad, Thesaurus, dictionary, pens and pencils.

APRI: What do you consider to be your accomplishment?

CLM: Nightwolves: Dawn to Dusk. It's not finished yet, but it will be my best work. So far :)

APRI: Were you always a great writer? Have you always like to write?

CLM: I don't think I am a great writer. A decent writer, yes, but not great.

APRI: Do you have any strange writing habits (like standing on your head or writing in the shower)?

CLM: I throw knives at a board next to my desk when I am stuck or getting stressed at a point in the story. Drives my kids nuts.

APRI: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

CLM: On a beach with white sands, drinking Margaritas and eating Sushi with some young god rubbing suntan oil on me with a look of complete adoration on his face - if not a little hunger too. (and not for the food LOL)

APRI: Where is one place you want to visit that you haven't been before?

CLM: I was thinking Norway.

APRI: What is something you want to accomplish before you die?

CLM: Finish all the series I have outlines for. Finish the songs that keep bumpin' in my head. Finish the poems I have only a few sentences to. Finally, finish the dissertations I have started in several subjects and then  if I have time save the world.

APRI: What literary character is most like you?

CLM: Catrina, def LOL. She is the main protagonist in Nightwolves.

APRI: Do you have a favorite quote that inspires you?

CLM: To thine own self be true. William Shakespeare - The Earl of Literature

APRI: What are the most important elements of good writing?

CLM: Good character development, good plot, continuation consistency. Good flow and can make the reader "feel"

APRI: According to you, what tools are must-haves for writers?

CLM: An up to date microsoft word, lots of coffee and a good Muse.

APRI: Do you have any tips for readers or advice for other writers trying to get published?

CLM: Be very careful of agents and publishers. Check them out very carefully before you sign anything and always have a lawyer look at the contracts and explain them to you in full.

APRI: What was your greatest failure and what did you learn from that?

CLM: One doesn't fail if one gets back up and tries, tries, tries and tries again until one succeeds.

APRI: What do you do in your spare time?

CLM: I work out, take as many classes as I can afford to do and try to stay out of trouble :) Writing helps a lot with that a lot.

APRI: Can you tell our readers about yourself and your writings?

CLM: It's amazing how much truth you can put in a book and still call it fiction.

APRI: What was the most challenging moment in your writing journey so far?

CLM: Nightwolves Dawn to Dusk. I have been trying to finish it for 4 years now but either life's curve balls keep coming out of left field at me or it has been a real hard book to write. But I have vowed to have it finished by the end of the year no matter what.

APRI: What makes you smile?

CLM: Writing or getting this picture in my head of this guy with blond hair, blue eyes and he is always smiling at me. Never met him. I think but he is in my head all the time.

APRI: What is your favorite word? Why?

 CLM: I can tell you words I hate like hunkered and hankered. They drive me nuts when I read them in a book. I have too many favorite words like Awesome,...seriously?...and wishful.

APRI: Can you sum up your life in one sentence? If so what would that sentence be?

CLM: Pretty damn unbelievable.

APRI: Any last thoughts for our readers?

CLM: Some would say get out in the world and live life - live it to the fullest. Easier said than done for some people and books are a great way to see other worlds, other lives. To be someone else for a few hours or a whole day - depending on how fast one reads. I say, yes go out and live life if you are able, but bring a good book with you :)

APRI: If you had to convince a friend or colleague to read your work, what might you tell them?

CLM: I would say, forget the blind date read one of my books. It's like watching a movie with high octane action in some parts, touching love scenes and characters you either love or hate. You usually go wrong with a blind date but can never go wrong with one of my books.

APRI: Which writer would you most likely have a drink with and why?

CLM: Oh that's easy. William Shakespeare so I can ask him how he wrote like one plays a symphony. He makes his words literally play notes with metaphors, oxymorons and similies. His is a work of art like the Mona Lisa and I would love to learn how he did that back in those days so well. No one has ever come close since and probably never will.

APRI: What question have you always wanted to be asked during an interview? How would you answer that question?

CLM: Are you single? Yes, LMAO. Sorry couldn't resist this.

For more information about Clarrissa Lee Moon see links below:

Website for Clarrissa Lee Moon: http://www.clarrissaleemoonauthor.webs.com

Author Clarrissa Lee Moon @ World Castle Publishing:

http://www.worldcastlepublishing.com/author-clarrissa-lee-moon.html

Clarrissa Lee Moon on Goodreads:

http://www.goodreads.com/ClarrissaLee

Clarrissa Lee Moon on Smashwords:

http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/ClarrissaLeeMoonjeta

Clarrissa Lee Moon Books on Amazon:

click on name to go to Amazon -- Clarrissa Lee Moon

APRI PRESENTS: Interview with Author Jeta Vojkollari

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - JETA VOJKOLLARI

Jeta Vojkollari was born and raised in Tirana, Albania. She studied Economics at the University of Tirana. Jeta has won awards for several long lyrics, two of which became hits. Her experience and passion to write has led her to this book. She lives in Toronto, Canada with her husband and works for the City of Toronto. The Devil I Paid For Advice is her first novel.

APRI: Do you have any advice for up and coming writers?

JV: There is more to writing a book that putting thoughts on a piece of paper. i would advise any new writer to fully understand the whole process:

         1. Write a first draft. This is the exciting part which every creative writer looks forward to.

         2. Edit it once and then edit it again. Not every sentence is right the first time around. Editing

is very meticulous but very necessary. Edit your draft several times until there is no sentence

in the book, you are not in love with.

3. Publish it. Traditional publishing is ideal but many distinct writers are taking charge by

self-publishing their creations.

4. Market and promote it.  Promoting your book is very important and this is where

the process gets creative again.

5.  Keep Going. Repeat 1-4 for your next book.

APRI:  What authors do you like to read? What book or books have had a strong influence on you or your writing?

JV: Reading was my favorite pastime. The books that had a strong influence on me growing up were:

- as a child: The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain, The Count of Monte Cristo by

Alexandre Dumas, etc.

- as a teenager: Les Misérables by Victor Hugo, A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway, etc.

- in high school and after: Martin Eden by Jack London, War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, Arch of

Triumph and Three Comrades by Erich Maria Remarque, Amok and other novellas by Stefan Zweig, etc.

The first book I read in English was East of Eden by John Steinbeck, when I came to Canada.

In general, I like to read literary fiction, but time after time I entertain myself by reading books of different genres. Today I read: Ismael Kadare (famous Albanian writer), Margaret Atwood, Julian Barnes, Jonathan Franzen, Jodi Picoult, etc.

APRI: Any writing rituals?

JV: I usually start with the big idea. I think about it and talk to it for some time. If I conclude that it's a good idea, an idea that might scratch the wounds of our society and that my book will convey a good message to the readers, I start writing. I try to write every day, even if it is a single sentence. I don't have to sit in front of the computer and write it. I might scribble it in a piece of paper. That sentence might be enough for me to write a full page or even a chapter later. I pay attention to life. My little ideas which help me fill the story might come all of a sudden from pieces of life: from a random sentence in a newspaper; an angry man talking on the phone; somebody swearing in a low voice; an old woman, whose hands shake while counting coins; or from a child who grabs the toy from another child's hands.

APRI: Tell us some more about your book.

JV: The Devil I Paid for Advice is about big egos and a twisted belief system; it's about the wrong and right ways to break free off abusive relationships; it's about dreaming the pleasure of the revenge and drinking its bitterness; it's about love and power and control; it's about the choice to use a bitter word instead of a sweet one.

The novel is built with many characters whose stories entertwine with each other.

I believe American readers will enjoy reading about a way of life in a small country far away from here, called Albania. On the other hand, despite the Albanian setting, this doesn't necessarily have to be an Albanian story, and the readers will discover this in the pages of the novel.

APRI: What's more important: characters or plot?

JV: I believe both are very important, but I would like to say that characters move the plot forward. The main characters of The Devil I Paid for Advice are multidimensional, they are not necessarily good or bad. Having interesting characters in a book, makes the story unpredictable, and full of surprises. A reader of mine said, "The descriptions, characters and their stories raised me up to the sky and knocked me to the ground; they filled me with air and left me breathless."

APRI: Any last thoughts for our readers?

JV: I believe that reading makes us all better. I would say, don't just read any book that comes your way, read the good ones. Read those books that play even a tiny part in making us and this world better.

APRI: Is there a message in your novel that you want your readers to grasp?

JV: My book conveys a lot of good messages but the most important one would be that domestic abuse takes different forms. It might be physical, verbal, sexual, psychological, emotional, financial, etc; it touches all the strata of society, regardless of education, culture, religion, economical circumstances etc.; it's wrong and we all have to play our role in stopping it.

APRI: What was the hardest part of writing your book?

 JV: In order for me to write the book realistically, I had to put myself into my characters' shoes. I had to go to the darkest corners of the stories, I had to perceive myself what my characters were going through. I believe that if the story is not believable to the writer, it would never be believable to the writer.

APRI: Do you have any advice for other writers?

JV: If you really want to write, do not wait for the ideal moment. Life is very busy for everybody and the ideal moment will probably never come. Just write. Write whatever comes to your mind. It doesn't have to be perfect. You'll perfect it later.

APRI: What do you hope people take away from your writing?

JV: I'm going to answer this question with my reader's voice. I couldn't have said it better.

- "You feel as though you have been thoroughly purified after reading this book."

- "The book left me with a very warm feeling, as despite the bitter reality, you give hope

and a significant message that only with love we can heal the wounds of the past and

can build a better future."

- "Tremulous rays of love symbolize characters of Jeta Vojkollari's novel; her depiction invites

readers to discover the end of love and love with a happy ending."

APRI: Where are you from?

JV: I am from a small country in Europe called Albania. For your readers' curiosity, my name Jeta (pronounced like Jetta) means Life in Albanian. I immigrated to Canada in 2009 along with my husband and two children.

APRI: When and why did you begin writing?

JV: I always wanted to be a writer. I wrote my first poem at nine years old. I remember reading it in front of my class and when I finished, my teacher asked "Did you write it yourself?" I have been writing my entire life, but I never considered publishing a book until now. I wanted to be a writer as I enjoy the process. While working full time for the City of Toronto, I studied the mechanics of writing fiction. While I had vivid imagination, I can create realistic stories which convey significant meaning to the reader. I also read a lot. Reading introduces one to unknown worlds, with wonderful feelings and fantasy. I want my books to transport my readers to a different mindset and excite their imagination.

APRI: What inspired you to write your book?

JV: In the first two years of coming to Canada as an immigrant, I worked as an interpreter for people, who were victims or perpetrators of domestic abuse. I heard a lot of stories. I was fascinated to learn that they were all the same, despite the ethnic group, culture, age, income level, faith or education level. This is what inspired me to write the Devil I Paid for Advice.

In order for me to be qualified for such work, I had to attend several programs on domestic abuse and get the necessary certificates. I attended the individual and group sessions and I received a good knowledge on this serious social issue.

APRI: How did you come up with the title?

JV: The novel is built with multi characters, who come from different strata of society. Their stories intertwine with each other through the psychotherapist, who like her clients, struggle in an abusive relationship. The relationship has filled her with hate and causes her to twist the advice to her clients while living her life vicariously through them. I believe that nothing can be worse than going to sombedy for advice and she leads you the wrong way.

APRI: What cultural value do you see in writing / reading / storytelling / etc.?

JV: I believe that writing / reading not only entertains us, but it opens our eyes to better understand a social, environmental / ethical, political issue; it hels us know our country, our world, our past and our future; it makes us better and it shows us the way to make the whole world better.

APRI: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?

JV: I enjoyed seeing my characters grow and become stronger. Despite the subject of the book, the characters are not victims. They are fighters.

APRI: Who is your intended audience and why should they read your book?

JV: All people 17 years old and up, mostly females.

Some of these readers will find themselves in my book, some will find their friend or neighbor. Not only will they enjoy the book for its plot but also for the strong characters and artistic writing style.

APRI: Is there anything else you would like to say?

JV: Thank you very much for the interview, Marion! I appreciate the fact that you gave me the possibility to introduce myself to the APRI readers and the American media.

Here are a couple of Links where the readers can learn more about me and my novel 

The Devil I Paid for Advice:

www.JetaVojkollari.com

http://www.friesenpress.com/bookstore/title/119734000018904009

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZARLZMU/?tag=friesenpressc-20

APRI: And now, before you go, how about a snippet from your book that is meant to intrigue and
tantalize us?

JV: Two snippets. :)

Tirana in the evening. Modern cafes. Lights. Glamour. High heels and loud voices. Laughter. Girls in low-cut necklines, smooth-skinned. Young men wearing their hair short and styled with gel. Just like the cafes, the young smelled of luxury and modern times.

It was a struggle making one's way through the streets of Tirana without jostling other people - strangers who spoke the same language. Sabrina slipped her arm around Tom's and clung to him as if for protection...

A couple were kissing ferociously right in front of them with thirsty mouths and tongues wrestling there, on the sidewalk, four inches away. One couldn't tell a kiss from a bite, celebration from a fight, birth from murder, love from rape or spouse from enemy. Sabrina wasn't entirely sure how to describe the kissing. Was it love or coercion? Love should be soft, like Tom's body.

Tirana had turned into a vortex of extremes. Life could be highly social, yet grimly isolated. Tirana itself could be so large and so small. Congested. Fighting for breath. On the corner of the residential block you could smell the enticing sweet corn and roasted chestnuts mixed with the stench of dried urine. Expensive Italian shoes tapped along the broken bricks of the sidewalks. Dressed in ostentatious clothes, modern boutique owners came out every now and then to send away beggars that chose to beg at the doorway...

***

She, too, was asleep now but restlessly asleep. Two hands had seized her by the throat and were squeezing her tightly. Mark's hands? Not nice of him, strangling her in her sleep. In the morning he would repent and scream in pain but whe would be gone by then. She would be sleeping peacefully, like the character she played in the movie. Mark's grip got tighter, stronger and she was almost out of breath. She could feel the water caressing her shoulders and her chin. The water reached her mouth. When Mark finally let go of her throat and she opened her mouth to breathe, the water entered her body with a rush. She was trying to swim, wriggling frantically. Her head came above the water. She caught Mark's piercing eyes. "What are you doing, Mark?" "You were sleeping, baby," he told her, and reached out to caress her cheek. Rakela jumped out of the water to dodge his hand. She backed away and spat out the water that had filled her mouth. What on earth was happening to her? Closing her eyes while lying in the bathtub was not a good idea at all. Rakela Kato got up slowly, and wrapped herself in the soft white bathrobe she had bought at a beauty centre in Pari. Still wet, she walked around the house, looking for Mark. She remembered it was Tuesday and Mark would be teaching till ten. Something was off with Mark lately.

APRI: What question have you always wanted to be asked during an interview? How would you answer that question?

JV: Question: Long unpaid hours in front of the computer, talking to your characters. You're not rich or famous after all and chances are you'll never be. Was it worth writing the book?

Answer: Absolutely! When I hear how much my readers have enjoyed my book, my heart is filled with joy, and the tiredness melts away. What remains is fulfillment and gratitude.

For more information about Jeta Vojkollari see links below:

Jeta Vojkollari on Linkedin: 

https://ca.linkedin.com/pub/jeta-vojkollari/1a/875/639

Website for Jeta Vojkollari: http://www.jetavojkollari.com

Jeta Vojkollari on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jeta.vojkollari

Amazon link for Jeta Vojkollari

http://www.amazon.com/The-Devil-Paid-For-Advice/dp/1460262093