Marta Stephens author of the Sam Harper Crime Mystery series:
THE DEVIL CAN WAIT (2008), Bronze Medal Finalist, 2009 Independent Publishers Book Awards (IPPY), Top Ten, 2008 Preditors and Editors Reader Poll (mystery).
SILENCED CRY (2007) Honorable Mention, 2008 New York Book Festival, Top Ten, 2007 Preditors and Editors Reader Poll (mystery)
Marta Stephens, a crime/mystery writer, resides in Indiana with her husband and two children. Stephens is currently working on the third book in the Sam Harper series as well as a new novel featuring the character of Rhonie Lude, PI. Stephens also administers the collective authors’ blog, Murder by 4, selected by Writer’s Digest among the 2009 101 Best Websites for Authors.
Stephens holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism/Public Relations from Ball State University (IN) and is a member of Sisters in Crime International, Sisters in Crime Speed City Indiana Chapter, and the Midwest Writer's Workshop.
What do you want readers to take away from your books?
Writing is my passion and when I read, I want to be entertained—taken to another place and time along with the characters. My hope is that readers will experience this when they read my novels—that they’ll be drawn into the situations my character, homicide detective Sam Harper, encounters and will have a sense of reality within a work of fiction. I truly hope they’ll enjoy my books as much as I love writing them.
Are you a believer in outlines, or do you write spontaneously?
My plots are complex, often involving multiple characters and the need to weave 3-4 subplots together. The only way to ensure I’ve tied the clues and subplots together is to have a road map. Rather than an outline though, I prefer to write a synopsis. Initially I include everything I think will happen in the story adding as much detail as I possibly can. However, writing the synopsis is an entirely flexible process because I often discover the most interesting twist mid way through the manuscript that I hadn’t thought of ahead of time. As the story evolves, I update the synopsis. When I’m done with the novel, I’m also done with the synopsis.
What do you think it is about your book that will keep readers turning the pages?
The character of Sam Harper has a wonderful following among readers. One reviewer from Midwest Book Reviews described Harper as: “… a well-realized, no-nonsense cop, a streetwise guy who refuses to give up despite the odds. When the going gets rough, everyone else has given up, an easy option looms, and the race becomes overwhelming, Harper is just getting started. He is the original it ain't over guy.” But as tough as Harper is on the criminal(s), readers appreciate his compassion and soft side for his friends/co-workers and even the victims. Several have expressed their love of his relationship with his father who is a retired city detective. Harper often seeks his father’s advice. Readers have described my novels as fast-paced page turners. I think the reason for it is plotting, the obstacles Harper finds himself in, and the several cliffhangers that are written into the chapters. That’s what will keep them glued to their comfy chair turning those pages.
How can readers learn more and get in contact with you?
I look forward to hearing from readers or those interested in leaning more about me and my novels. I’m available via my website and blogs.
www.martastephens-author.com http://samharpercrimescene.blogspot.com – character blog: http://murderby4.blogspot.com – collective authors’ blog
Monday, September 21, 2009
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Sophia Simmons, tell us more...
Sophia C. Simmons, author of “Love Again” ISBN #978-0-981-9195-2-2
BIO:Sophia Simmons is a native of Pasadena, California. She has studied creative writing, journalism, and telecommunications, but found her heart to lie in writing real to life drama, romance, and poetry.
For over ten years Sophia remained in a marriage that began to guide her life down a path of despair. Instead of being beaten those unfortunate years, she strives to keep her eyes off of her own struggles and pours herself into writing and those in need around her. In her experience she has volunteered in teen ministries, groups for co-dependency, in shelters, missions, and is currently volunteering as a victims advocate. It is her soul's purpose to inspire people that you can heal, and life can be lived to the full, no matter what has happened in the past.
What do you want readers to take away from your book?
I want to people to finish reading my book and posses a sense of inspiration and hope. Understanding that no matter what has happened in your life you can have a prosperous future, by looking and learning from errors and making different or better choices when faced with the next life challenge.
Are you a believer in outlines, or do you write spontaneously?
I have an idea of where, what, and who, then I just write it. I'm not against outlines, but I've not used one. You find what works for you and you go with it.
What do you think it is about your book that will keep readers turning the pages?
Man. My book is so universal. There's drama, comedy, sex, romance, love, compassion. It is such a compelling whole and complete story. The chapters I get the most feedback on are the ones that exhibit the domestic violence. They are very real and I'd close my eyes to remember those times, then wrote them as if I were still there. My thoughts, struggle, and personal pain are all there, so the reader is there feeling it with me. Those were difficult chapters for me to write, but I knew it was necessary. One of my readers told me, “Sophia, I felt like you took me by the hand and I was walking with you. I could see everything so clearly.” I just loved when she told me that, because that's the whole premise of a good book. Also in contrast there are some very comedic characters who do some way out there funny stuff and people love those too.
How can readers learn more and get in contact with you?
You can find me at www.SophiaSimmonsOnline.com, there's a lot of information there. Including a video trailer, professional and readers reviews, “Love Again” tour dates, all kinds of stuff. Or Google me, I'm all over the internet.
BIO:Sophia Simmons is a native of Pasadena, California. She has studied creative writing, journalism, and telecommunications, but found her heart to lie in writing real to life drama, romance, and poetry.
For over ten years Sophia remained in a marriage that began to guide her life down a path of despair. Instead of being beaten those unfortunate years, she strives to keep her eyes off of her own struggles and pours herself into writing and those in need around her. In her experience she has volunteered in teen ministries, groups for co-dependency, in shelters, missions, and is currently volunteering as a victims advocate. It is her soul's purpose to inspire people that you can heal, and life can be lived to the full, no matter what has happened in the past.
What do you want readers to take away from your book?
I want to people to finish reading my book and posses a sense of inspiration and hope. Understanding that no matter what has happened in your life you can have a prosperous future, by looking and learning from errors and making different or better choices when faced with the next life challenge.
Are you a believer in outlines, or do you write spontaneously?
I have an idea of where, what, and who, then I just write it. I'm not against outlines, but I've not used one. You find what works for you and you go with it.
What do you think it is about your book that will keep readers turning the pages?
Man. My book is so universal. There's drama, comedy, sex, romance, love, compassion. It is such a compelling whole and complete story. The chapters I get the most feedback on are the ones that exhibit the domestic violence. They are very real and I'd close my eyes to remember those times, then wrote them as if I were still there. My thoughts, struggle, and personal pain are all there, so the reader is there feeling it with me. Those were difficult chapters for me to write, but I knew it was necessary. One of my readers told me, “Sophia, I felt like you took me by the hand and I was walking with you. I could see everything so clearly.” I just loved when she told me that, because that's the whole premise of a good book. Also in contrast there are some very comedic characters who do some way out there funny stuff and people love those too.
How can readers learn more and get in contact with you?
You can find me at www.SophiaSimmonsOnline.com, there's a lot of information there. Including a video trailer, professional and readers reviews, “Love Again” tour dates, all kinds of stuff. Or Google me, I'm all over the internet.
Introducing Diane Martin
RL meets Diane Martin-
Bio: My name is Diane Martin and I am the author of Never What it Seems, Autumn Leaves, and Fallen Angel. I was born in Chicago, Illinois and currently live in the Chicago-land area. I earned my Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts degree from Chicago State University.
1. What do you want readers to take away from your book?
I want readers to be left breathless and wanting more. I want them to feel enlightened and encouraged. I want readers to walk away feeling different about who they are and feeling different about the world around them. As the story(s) jump off of the pages to ignite their imagination, I will hope that my novels take the reader on a journey to faraway places allowing them to physically, mentally, and emotionally experience a “life” outside of their own.
2. Are you a believer in outlines, or do you write spontaneously?
I write spontaneously.
3. What do you think it is about your book that will keep readers turning the pages?
Often, I’ve found myself buying a novel that after only the first chapter I‘m trying to find a garbage can to throw it in. I told myself that as an author I would do everything I can to avoid writing a novel that loses its “fizzle” after the first couple of pages. When I write, I make every effort to write chapters that would engage the reader to the point that they find themselves wanting to do nothing else but read. I believe that a novel should have the same effect on the reader as a good movie has on the person watching it.
4. How can readers learn more and get in contact with you?
Readers can contact me via:
Email: dimartin01@yahoo.com
Website: http://dimartin01.books.officelive.com
Bio: My name is Diane Martin and I am the author of Never What it Seems, Autumn Leaves, and Fallen Angel. I was born in Chicago, Illinois and currently live in the Chicago-land area. I earned my Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts degree from Chicago State University.
1. What do you want readers to take away from your book?
I want readers to be left breathless and wanting more. I want them to feel enlightened and encouraged. I want readers to walk away feeling different about who they are and feeling different about the world around them. As the story(s) jump off of the pages to ignite their imagination, I will hope that my novels take the reader on a journey to faraway places allowing them to physically, mentally, and emotionally experience a “life” outside of their own.
2. Are you a believer in outlines, or do you write spontaneously?
I write spontaneously.
3. What do you think it is about your book that will keep readers turning the pages?
Often, I’ve found myself buying a novel that after only the first chapter I‘m trying to find a garbage can to throw it in. I told myself that as an author I would do everything I can to avoid writing a novel that loses its “fizzle” after the first couple of pages. When I write, I make every effort to write chapters that would engage the reader to the point that they find themselves wanting to do nothing else but read. I believe that a novel should have the same effect on the reader as a good movie has on the person watching it.
4. How can readers learn more and get in contact with you?
Readers can contact me via:
Email: dimartin01@yahoo.com
Website: http://dimartin01.books.officelive.com
Say hello to Jasmine Aherne
Jasmine Aherne
Between the Lines
Jasmine lives in Cardiff, United Kingdom. She's currently studying for an MA in poetry & novel crafting, in between looking after her pet python and baking far too many cakes. She lives with her very patient partner Alex.
What do you want readers to take away from your book?
I love writing contemporary romances because I want to bring a bit of fairytale romance into this modern world. I want readers to finish my book and believe that love can transform ordinary lives into something extraordinary.
Are you a believer in outlines, or do you write spontaneously?
I want to believe in outlines! I try so hard, but in the end, I find that I write best when I make it up as I go. Not a very eloquent answer I'm afraid, but an honest one.
Between the Lines
Jasmine lives in Cardiff, United Kingdom. She's currently studying for an MA in poetry & novel crafting, in between looking after her pet python and baking far too many cakes. She lives with her very patient partner Alex.
What do you want readers to take away from your book?
I love writing contemporary romances because I want to bring a bit of fairytale romance into this modern world. I want readers to finish my book and believe that love can transform ordinary lives into something extraordinary.
Are you a believer in outlines, or do you write spontaneously?
I want to believe in outlines! I try so hard, but in the end, I find that I write best when I make it up as I go. Not a very eloquent answer I'm afraid, but an honest one.
What do you think it is about your book that will keep readers turning the pages?
The characters, I hope - their wants and needs and dreams. I hope the readers will cheer them on through the story.
How can readers learn more and get in contact with you?
My website, www.jasmineaherne.com is filled with reviews, contact details, recipes for my favourites food and cakes, and much more besides. I also usually have a fun contest running. At the moment, readers can also enjoy a free romantic serial I'm penning at www.jackandtilly.wordpress.com. It's about two long-term friends who discover that they might just have more than their childhood in common. Enjoy!
The characters, I hope - their wants and needs and dreams. I hope the readers will cheer them on through the story.
How can readers learn more and get in contact with you?
My website, www.jasmineaherne.com is filled with reviews, contact details, recipes for my favourites food and cakes, and much more besides. I also usually have a fun contest running. At the moment, readers can also enjoy a free romantic serial I'm penning at www.jackandtilly.wordpress.com. It's about two long-term friends who discover that they might just have more than their childhood in common. Enjoy!
Meet Nicole Bradley
Meet Nicole "Jahzara" Bradley- She is contributing author and publisher of the anthology, Never Would Have Made It. Jahzara is a native of Gary , Indiana . She attended West Side High School where she graduated with honors. She is also a graduate of Indiana University Bloomington. Jahzara is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and Author 4 Charity. She also is the owner of Tranquil Moments LLC- her very own therapeutic massage business and publishing company.
What do you want readers to take away from your book?
I want readers to feel empowered and inspired after reading the book and to know no matter what they may be facing there is HOPE.
Are you a believer in outlines, or do you write spontaneously?
I'm not a fan of outlines when writing fiction. I like to write spontaneously and then go back and see what fits and what doesn't. Before I sit down to write, most times I already have a general idea of what I want to write about or what the outcome is going to be. If I already know the outcome, then I like to work backwards to see how the characters get there. That is so fun to me.
What do you think it is about your book that will keep readers turning the pages?
The reader will find this book to be a real, down to earth testimonies that speak to the heart. "This is a life-transforming book of captivating stories of adventure, suspense, adversity, and wisdom. It's a compilation of inspirational, insightful, and unforgettable writings that speak to the heart, mind, and human spirit. And one that you should not be without," says Fran Briggs, Publicist for the Author, Jahzara.
How can readers learn more and get in contact with you?
At tranquilmomentspublishing@yahoo.com. Also they can visit me on the internet at www.nicolebradley.com and www.jahzarawrites.com.
Thank you for this opportunity.
What do you want readers to take away from your book?
I want readers to feel empowered and inspired after reading the book and to know no matter what they may be facing there is HOPE.
Are you a believer in outlines, or do you write spontaneously?
I'm not a fan of outlines when writing fiction. I like to write spontaneously and then go back and see what fits and what doesn't. Before I sit down to write, most times I already have a general idea of what I want to write about or what the outcome is going to be. If I already know the outcome, then I like to work backwards to see how the characters get there. That is so fun to me.
What do you think it is about your book that will keep readers turning the pages?
The reader will find this book to be a real, down to earth testimonies that speak to the heart. "This is a life-transforming book of captivating stories of adventure, suspense, adversity, and wisdom. It's a compilation of inspirational, insightful, and unforgettable writings that speak to the heart, mind, and human spirit. And one that you should not be without," says Fran Briggs, Publicist for the Author, Jahzara.
How can readers learn more and get in contact with you?
At tranquilmomentspublishing@yahoo.com. Also they can visit me on the internet at www.nicolebradley.com and www.jahzarawrites.com.
Thank you for this opportunity.
Mary Jo Kelso....
Mary Jean Kelso -
Most recent releases are: Life on the Homestead through Wings-press.com and Andy and Spirit in the Big Rescue through Guardianangelpublishing.com
I am an award-winning author (Best Spot News 2008 from The Nevada Press Association) who writes in a variety of genres. It is easier to tell you what I don't write than what I do. I do not write vampire stories, science fiction or torrid. What I write is "life." Originally I started out writing children's picture books but had little success. So I went to YAs. Then adult historical romances and now have found abundant success with children's picture books.
Most recent releases are: Life on the Homestead through Wings-press.com and Andy and Spirit in the Big Rescue through Guardianangelpublishing.com
I am an award-winning author (Best Spot News 2008 from The Nevada Press Association) who writes in a variety of genres. It is easier to tell you what I don't write than what I do. I do not write vampire stories, science fiction or torrid. What I write is "life." Originally I started out writing children's picture books but had little success. So I went to YAs. Then adult historical romances and now have found abundant success with children's picture books.
1. What do you want readers to take away from your book? It is my hope that people will like my characters and relate to them. I enjoy history and love researching how people lived in the "Old West." Weaving little tidbits of reality into the fiction makes it more fun for me and, I hope, for my readers.
2. Are you a believer in outlines, or do you write spontaneously? I have never like the constraints of outlines. Normally, I write spontaneously but often, once the text is written, make a list of what occurs in each chapter to make sure everything is in the proper order. I guess you could say my stories are character driven. That way I get the fun and surprises as the writing flows that I hope my readers get later on.
3. What do you think it is about your book that will keep readers turning the pages? If I've done my job right, they will become involved with the individuals in the book and want to know what happens to them and how they get out of whatever trouble they're in at the time.
4. How can readers learn more and get in contact with you? They can go to one of my websites, www.authorsden.com/maryjeankelso or http://www.andyandthealbinohorse.blogspot.com/, there are also interviews on http://www.whiskeycreekpress.com/, http://www.wings-press.com/, http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/ or many others listed on Google. Amazon.com displays all the covers of the books as they come out.
2. Are you a believer in outlines, or do you write spontaneously? I have never like the constraints of outlines. Normally, I write spontaneously but often, once the text is written, make a list of what occurs in each chapter to make sure everything is in the proper order. I guess you could say my stories are character driven. That way I get the fun and surprises as the writing flows that I hope my readers get later on.
3. What do you think it is about your book that will keep readers turning the pages? If I've done my job right, they will become involved with the individuals in the book and want to know what happens to them and how they get out of whatever trouble they're in at the time.
4. How can readers learn more and get in contact with you? They can go to one of my websites, www.authorsden.com/maryjeankelso or http://www.andyandthealbinohorse.blogspot.com/, there are also interviews on http://www.whiskeycreekpress.com/, http://www.wings-press.com/, http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/ or many others listed on Google. Amazon.com displays all the covers of the books as they come out.
Get to know Venita Louise
RL Meets Venita Louise- author of a humorous novel set in the mid-sixties called, Mixed Nuts, and a mystery set in the mid-forties called, Dead on the Money.
My website says, Where Mystery and Comedy reside. Soon, it will say, Where Mystery, Comedy and Music reside. Jumping from short stories to novels to writing songs is the only exercise I get. Writing eases the pressure from my mind, music heals my soul and humor keeps me sane. I am a big fan of contests. I submitted a novella to, Vintage Romance Publishing. I didn’t win, but instead, was offered a contract to publish, Initials For Murder, the prequel to Dead on the Money, now offered at The Author’s Lounge. I also perform in the classic rock band, Meridian.
1.What do you want readers to take away from your book?
We often hear people speak of, the good old days, and of course, every time period has been plagued by its own troubles. Nevertheless, more times than not, it’s the funny things, the fads, the slang, the dances, types of furniture and cars that are most remembered. I try to incorporate these things in my novels with as much accuracy as possible. For the reader who has lived through these eras, I would hope to create nostalgia, an affectionate defibrillation of the mind, jarring it back to times gone by. For the younger reader, I would hope to create a bit of appreciation for the conveniences that we have today and perhaps a sense of curiosity about what it was like to suffer without computers, text messaging and push-button technology.
2. Are you a believer in outlines, or do you write spontaneously?
I think I’m more of a, connect-the-dots writer. I keep notebooks all over my house in case an idea springs to mind. I take notes when I hear an interesting conversation in a restaurant or standing in line for the movies. People are a lot funnier when they are being serious and you can capture some truly worthy dialog just by listening.
When a story comes to mind the first thing I think of is how I want it to end. With that in mind, I begin to create my characters and believe it or not, they seem to drive the story to the intended finish.
My website says, Where Mystery and Comedy reside. Soon, it will say, Where Mystery, Comedy and Music reside. Jumping from short stories to novels to writing songs is the only exercise I get. Writing eases the pressure from my mind, music heals my soul and humor keeps me sane. I am a big fan of contests. I submitted a novella to, Vintage Romance Publishing. I didn’t win, but instead, was offered a contract to publish, Initials For Murder, the prequel to Dead on the Money, now offered at The Author’s Lounge. I also perform in the classic rock band, Meridian.
1.What do you want readers to take away from your book?
We often hear people speak of, the good old days, and of course, every time period has been plagued by its own troubles. Nevertheless, more times than not, it’s the funny things, the fads, the slang, the dances, types of furniture and cars that are most remembered. I try to incorporate these things in my novels with as much accuracy as possible. For the reader who has lived through these eras, I would hope to create nostalgia, an affectionate defibrillation of the mind, jarring it back to times gone by. For the younger reader, I would hope to create a bit of appreciation for the conveniences that we have today and perhaps a sense of curiosity about what it was like to suffer without computers, text messaging and push-button technology.
2. Are you a believer in outlines, or do you write spontaneously?
I think I’m more of a, connect-the-dots writer. I keep notebooks all over my house in case an idea springs to mind. I take notes when I hear an interesting conversation in a restaurant or standing in line for the movies. People are a lot funnier when they are being serious and you can capture some truly worthy dialog just by listening.
When a story comes to mind the first thing I think of is how I want it to end. With that in mind, I begin to create my characters and believe it or not, they seem to drive the story to the intended finish.
3. What do you think it is about your book that will keep readers turning the pages?
I hope that it is the humor in Mixed Nuts that will keep the reader going. Most of the characters in that story are taken from my own family but the names have been changed to protect the guilty. As far as Dead on the Money, it is inspired by my passion for film noir and Mickey Spillane novels. Anyone who enjoys salted peanuts and dingy bars might enjoy this one.
I hope that it is the humor in Mixed Nuts that will keep the reader going. Most of the characters in that story are taken from my own family but the names have been changed to protect the guilty. As far as Dead on the Money, it is inspired by my passion for film noir and Mickey Spillane novels. Anyone who enjoys salted peanuts and dingy bars might enjoy this one.
4. How can readers learn more and get in contact with you?
Both Mixed Nuts and Dead on the Money are available at Amazon.com. and most book stores.
I can be contacted via my website http://www.venitalouise.net or, The Author’s Lounge at, http://www.talauthors.com/ My original music can be found on GarageBand.com under the name, White Smoke.
Thank you so much,
Venita Louise
Both Mixed Nuts and Dead on the Money are available at Amazon.com. and most book stores.
I can be contacted via my website http://www.venitalouise.net or, The Author’s Lounge at, http://www.talauthors.com/ My original music can be found on GarageBand.com under the name, White Smoke.
Thank you so much,
Venita Louise
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)