Amina Thajudeen Author Interview, Book Review, Book Tour, Fiction, Self-Help, Young-Adult

“Jealousy destroys creativity, and I have to constantly remind myself to move beyond it and just write!” Ruth Rotkowitz on the process of writing and launching her novels

Today I’ll be hosting author Ruth Rotkowitz on my blog. Her novels, Escaping the Whale and The Whale Surfaces are available on Amazon.com

Ruth Rotkowitz is the author of two novels: Escaping the Whale and the prequel, The Whale Surfaces. Both novels feature a daughter of Holocaust survivors who struggles with a legacy of inherited trauma. Readers’ interest in the background of the adult protagonist in Escaping the Whale, which was published first, inspired the creation of the prequel, which describes the woman’s childhood and adolescence. As a daughter of survivors herself, Rotkowitz has experienced, observed, and researched inherited trauma. In the talks she has conducted via Zoom this past year, she has been heartened by the reactions of many types of readers of varied backgrounds who relate to her protagonist’s struggles.

Rotkowitz has published fiction, nonfiction, and poetry in various literary journals and has been a staff writer and member of the editorial board of the (now defunct) Woman’s Newspaper of Princeton, where several of her feature articles garnered awards. She holds a B.A. and M.A. in English and has taught English on both the college and high school levels. She currently conducts book talks for the Phoenix Holocaust Association in the Phoenix, Arizona area, where she resides.

It is my pleasure to welcome Ms. Rotkowitz to this interview.

  • When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I always knew. I felt the “calling,” so to speak, as a little girl, because I always loved reading and marveled at the power and beauty of the written word.

  • How long have you been writing?

I was always writing. I got serious about trying to get my work published in the seventies, when I left teaching and was home with a child.  I started with small pieces – fiction, nonfiction, poetry. I began framing ideas for novels a few years later, and began working at novel-writing in the eighties.

  • What inspired you to write these books?

 I was visited by the idea of a troubled young woman as a protagonist. As I began writing of this woman’s life and her attempt to conceal her fears and delusions in order to appear normal, I connected her problems with the problems of children of Holocaust survivors as well as the struggles of women to be taken seriously, in their relationships and careers. I was inspired to set the first novel, Escaping the Whale, in 1980 because women were just beginning to break out of the passive role set for them, and because I vividly remember the fascination that year with the Iran hostage crisis. I saw a connection between that situation and my protagonist’s.

 The creation of the second book, The Whale Surfaces was inspired by the questions readers of the first book asked. They were curious about the protagonist’s upbringing and wanted a picture of how she became this woman haunted by demons, trying desperately to banish them herself. Thus, during the lockdown, I wrote the prequel, a novella, which fleshes out this character’s story.

You can now order Hardcover, Paperback, eBook and Audible version of Escaping the Whale from Amazon.com and Hardcover and Paperback version from Barnes & Noble, The Whale Surfaces is available on paperback and eBook version from Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble

  • What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

The most difficult part is getting away from the artistic process. When I become obsessed with what I perceive as the success of other writers who have also published late in life with small presses, I become discouraged. How did they get that review? How did they get on that show?  Etcetera etcetera. That is the kiss of death, leaving me angry and discouraged. I have to remember that I must not compare myself to anyone else. Just do my work, enjoy what I do, and feel pride in what I have achieved. Jealousy destroys creativity, and I have to constantly remind myself to move beyond it and just write!

  • What is the most surprising thing you discovered while writing your books?

What surprised me, and still surprises me, is the total immersion I experience in my character’s life. I become her. Her problems, fears, obsessions, and joys become mine. I actually dream about her. I think, in those dreams, I am working out some parts of the story.

  • Who is your favorite author and why?

There are many authors I adore, but Alice Hoffman is by far one of my favorites. I love the way she weaves myth, legend, and the supernatural into her tales of human characters. As you might surmise from the titles of my novels, I feel a connection with the Biblical story of Jonah and the whale, and I employed that as a metaphor for my character’s dilemma. Myths from all cultures have so much to teach us, and I am inspired by Hoffman’s ability to create a smooth flow between that world and the real world.

  • What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

As a young girl, I was enamored of Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. I loved how the book drew me in so that I truly cared about the characters. The emotional connection I felt with Jo, the main character, and the pain I felt at Beth’s death, made me realize that writing has the power to connect with readers on an emotional level.

As an adult, I devour novels that portray a female character struggling with mental illness and/or butting heads with others who do not understand her. How To Be A Good Wife by Emma Chapman, The Pleasing Hour by Lily King, Beloved by Toni Morrison, Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline, Illumination Night and The Probable Future by Alice Hoffman, All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr, The Girl With the Louding Voice by Abi Dare, and Pigs in Heaven by Barbara Kingsolver are some of the books that have inspired me to explore the stories that reside in my head.

  • If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Sensitive, creative, searching

  • Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

If you love your character or your story, focus on that. Let it come to life on the page. Don’t be distracted by other worries about what you are creating. Enjoy the writing itself!

  • Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers?

I have begun two other novels. One deals with a woman who has inherited a castle in which she grew up and that she has spent her adult years trying to maintain. At some point, she will begin to question why she is doing that, since it has prevented her from having a life of her own. The other novel I have begun features an installation artist who teaches art in high school to pay her bills. She meets a charismatic, dysfunctional couple who fascinate her.  They are both successful actors and they worm their way into her life, helping her but also controlling her.

You can follow me on Instagram @ruthrotkowitz to keep up-to-date on the progress for this project.

For more information on author Ruth Rotkowitz, visit her website

About Escaping the Whale

To everyone who knows her, 28-year-old Marcia Gold leads the perfect life. A high school guidance counselor in 1980 Brooklyn, New York who specializes in helping pregnant teens, Marcia thrives in her work. She also has a handsome, successful boyfriend who has won the approval of her Jewish, Holocaust-survivor family – no easy feat.

However, beneath the shiny surface lurks another reality. Plagued by frightening and debilitating panic attacks brought on by her family’s wartime legacy and exacerbated by the Iranian hostage crisis in the news, Marcia becomes convinced that “demons” are occupying her closet and her mind. Determined to keep her terrifying secret life a secret, Marcia is pushed closer and closer to a breaking point.

A series of crises finally forces the explosion Marcia can no longer contain. Determined to rid herself of her “demons,” she concocts a plan, desperate to be reborn as a new person. Unfortunately, she discovers that her plan creates its own problems. Can she find another path out of her psychic pain, one that will lead her to true normalcy?

Purchase here: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble and Apple Books

About The Whale Surfaces

Marcia Gold is the daughter of Holocaust survivors whose lives have been defined by their painful experiences in Europe. A sensitive child, Marcia has absorbed this history as her own, and the Holocaust looms over her childhood like an ever-present cloud. Despite caring parents and a safe life, Marcia’s childhood is filled with panic and delusions.

Marcia realizes early on that her fearful imaginings are upsetting to others. Yet demons are haunting her and she feels them infiltrating her life, making her ‘different.’ No one can understand her sense of alienation and her frightening ‘visions.’ Mortified by them herself, she believes her only hope lies in escaping the scene of her childhood and beginning an independent life. Only then, she concludes, will she vanquish those demons whose tentacles seem to be sliding relentlessly through the inside of her brain, poisoning all that they touch. Marcia’s search for independence is really a search for mental health.

Read after Escaping the Whale, the prequel explains Marcia’s journey to adulthood. Read as a stand-alone, it provides a picture of a child struggling to be ‘normal.’ Marcia Gold, in both books, is waiting to be understood.

Purchase here: Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble

Amina Thajudeen Author Interview, Book Tour, Fantacy, Fiction, Thriller, Young-Adult

‘A pen gives me a voice in the world’: 13 Questions with Peter Gray

Peter Gray was born in Toronto, Canada. He holds a bachelor’s degree in History and Education but has always felt the lure of classic English literature. Peter published his first story in 2020; a paranormal romance called “Cursed.” His first full length novel “The Tragic Tale of Teddy Woven” was released in the month of September 2020. As a self-published author, Peter specializes in the genres of Gothic horror, paranormal romance, and historical fiction. His first historical romance novel “Awakening” debuted in the month of March 2021; he plans to continue writing in this genre for his upcoming novels “At Peace” and “Far from Home” series which will premiere later this year.

It is my pleasure to welcome the author Peter Gray to this episode.

Me: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Peter Gray: Unfortunately, I cannot recall an exact time that I wanted to be a writer. I was always a daydreamer, ever since I was a little girl. As I grew older, I began to write these stories down on paper. They were short drabbles at first, but by the time I was in University they began to expand in scale. It is only recently that I decided to publish my stories under a male pen name and share it with the rest of the world. The accessibility of self-publishing through platforms like Amazon or Google Play was the main motivator for me to put my work out there.

Me: How long have you been writing?

Peter Gray: I have been writing all my life, it started with journal entries after school, and then poetry in my teenager years. Once I was in University, I stumbled into the wonderful world of fanfiction, and I think that is where I was able to explore writing stories in different genres. Being heavily immersed in the fanfiction world also allowed me to network with fellow artists and writers, so it gave me an opportunity to meet people that shared the same interests as me. It wasn’t until Covid-19 spread across the world and left my life at a standstill, that I sat down one day and took a serious look at all the stories I had written so far. This period of reflection gave me the confidence I needed to research the advantages of self-publishing, create a pen name, and eventually publishing my novels on Amazon.  

Me: What inspired you to write your first book?

Peter Gray: There were several motivations for me to write “Cursed.” It was Halloween season at the time, and I promised my friends that I would write a short horror story for them. I have always had this strange fascination with werewolves, so it was easy for me to pen “Cursed.” The story was originally a fanfiction, but I liked the storyline so much that I decided to change it up and publish the story on Amazon to reach a wider audience. I am aware that there are a lot of werewolf stories out there, but I believe “Cursed” is significantly different because it mixes elements of comedy and horror to give it a more light-hearted feel. I believe the classic 1981 film “An American Werewolf in London,” was another motivator for me to write this novel. I had the pleasure of watching it after I published “Cursed,” and it gave me some sense of pride to see that my book shared the same vibe as that insanely comedic eighties film.

Purchase here: Amazon.com

Me: Are your characters created from scratch or are they based on people from your life?

Peter Gray: Thus far, all the characters that I have written have been created from scratch or vaguely inspired by other fictional characters. One of my future published works “At Peace,” is autobiographical in a way, which is both intimidating and unnerving for me. I believe that is the reason I have been repeatedly pushing back the dates so far, but I know for certain it will be published at the end of this year. This historical romance focusses on a budding romance between two teachers. A lot of the scenes in the first few chapters are a dim reflection of my own life, so it is an eerie experience to see my life suddenly penned upon a page. I think it is the best story that I have produced so far, probably because it correlates with that age old saying: “Write what you know.” I work in the education profession, so detailing the daily lives of a teacher’s duties and their classroom expectations was incredibly easy to do. This story is romantic and emotional evocative, and I believe it will be a favourite for many of my fans.

Me: What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

Peter Gray: The hardest part of writing during a pandemic is finding a quiet, isolated place to work. I currently live at home with my family. Lately it has been difficult to find a place to write new stories or market my published works. This inconvenience has made me wake up in the early hours of the morning, in the hopes of writing a chapter or two. Afterwards, I go out for a long walk among nature to clear my mind and allow my creative thoughts to wander. It is through these tranquil-like moments that I generate more ideas for a story. When I return home, my mind is full to the brim with new ideas, and then I am off, typing at my keyboard like a madman. My work habits, however strange they might appear, have allowed me to produce multiple novels within a short period.

Me: What is the most surprising thing you discovered while writing your book?

Peter Gray: I discovered that I like to integrate social justice issues into my novels. I never want to shy away from issues such as racism, environmental issues, or social injustice. A pen gives me a voice in the world, a vocal piece for me to fight for the rights of others.

Purchase here: Amazon.com

The philosophical topic of existentialism heavily influenced the “Far from Home” book series. The main characters in these novella’s often question their religious beliefs in a time when the Protestant faith was sacred, and the church heavily aligned with the British Monarchy. We see a lot of philosophical questions that plague the character’s mind, such as: “Why am I here?” or “Where will I go when I die?” In this book series, vampires’ chips away at the once firmly held religious beliefs of the Reeds’ family. It is apparent that the sudden emergence of vampires, those demonic creatures that possess the power to live beyond the grave, have a significant advantage over those people that cherish the Enlightened period and refuse to believe in the fact that vampires are free to roam throughout London, England. When penning “Far from Home” I was heavily influenced by Bram Stocker’s “Dracula,” and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s “Sherlock Holmes” novels, as well as John William Polidori “The Vampyre.” The book series, “Far from Home” starts off as a black noir, detective styled novella, but over the time the story evolves to focus on the tragically dark romances between the vampire, Aodhan McVeigh, and the woman he has chosen to be his lover.

Me: Who is your favourite author and why?

Peter Gray: An incredibly difficult question, but if I had to choose a single author it would be Charlotte Brontë. Her books influenced me in my late adolescence, and it helped me go through some difficult times in high school. Only when I entered University and began to study English literature, that I began to truly appreciate her writing style. There are a lot of similarities that I share with her life, such as writing under a male pseudonym or working in the education profession. When it was time to choose a pen name, I thought about all the female authors that influenced my life growing up and the hardships they faced to get their work published because they are a woman. It was the lives of the Brontë sisters during the nineteenth century that influenced me to write under a fictional male pen name, in the hopes of echoing the troubling time period for female authors because of their sex. 

Me: What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Peter Gray: Edgar Allan Poe’s “Ligeia” and “The House of Usher” are two major influences for me when I decided to partake in the Gothic horror genre. I also absolutely adore dark romanticism literature! I love stories with an ill-fated heroine being preyed upon by a sinister villain; dark moors, haunted houses, vengeful ghosts, those are the things that continually spark my imagination. In terms of light literature, I am highly inspired by the Romanticism period and the famous poets that wrote about sublime scenery and landscapes in England, Italy, and other parts of Europe that had not succumbed to the wave of the Industrial revolution. Another writer that has influenced my writing style is the lyrical poet, John Keats. He is my hero! I worship the very ground he walks upon, and he is one of the main reasons I fell in love with poetry at an early age. Recently, I have been enjoying Gothic novels by Renee Ross, a fellow indie writer with a penchant for all things dark and maniacal. I would suggest “The Ghost of Emily Grey,” a short horror novel I binge read in two days. I could go on for days, of course, but those are the writers that have influenced me the most so far.

Me: What is the best piece of advice you received about writing?

Peter Gray: I don’t remember a time when anyone gave me writing advice. I am quite headstrong, incredibly so, and I think that is the reason I went into the self-publishing business instead of falling into the long line of writers waiting to be noticed by big publishing companies. The best piece of writing advice I saw online was by Charles Bukowski. He is so raw with his words, so much grit and frankness that he knocks the reader over with the truth. I find his life inspiring too, it was just a few months ago that I watched a documentary detailing his daily writing habits. It just proves that you have to live everyday like it’s your last and make no excuses when it comes to writing. Bukowski’s writing philosophy is seen in this quote, when he says: “There’s nothing to stop a man from writing unless that man stops himself. If a man truly desires to write, then he will.” As a writer we have a choice; we can settle and write down stories that society dictates as acceptable or popular at this time, or we can listen to our intuition and tell a story that is deeply meaningful to you. When I first started to write stories it was to cater to a certain audience, but now I am at the point in my life where I think “How much longer will I be here? What legacy am I going to leave in the world?” and it is those types of questions that makes me want to put my best work out there.

Me: What inspires you to get out of bed each day?

Peter Gray: That’s an easy one! To write!!!

Me: If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Peter Gray: Bold, emphatic and a leader.

Me: Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Peter Gray: Have a network of people that you can rely on. They can be fellow writers or people that know you intimately and will call you out if the story can be improved upon. Writing is a lonely process, but it does not always have to be that way. Social media allows me to connect with fellow writers and ask them for advice. I am still new here, and yes, I have published four novels in less than two years, but I am still learning the intricacies of this business. When you are an indie writer it is essential to get your name out there. The books won’t sell by themselves! It requires work, patience, and a little bit of luck. The best advice I can give to an aspiring writer is to network with fellow artists and believe in yourself.

Visit the author’s website https://www.gray-blog.com/

Me: Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?

Peter Gray: I am in the middle of rewriting “Far from Home: Book Two,” since it was penned over two years ago. My writing style has drastically changed, so I am basically rewriting the entire story from scratch. I want to add more foreshadowing this time, especially when it comes to the dark, twisted relationship between Aodhan McVeigh and the woman he cleverly seduced, the young Victoria Reeds. I believe the first edition had a lot of Hades and Persephone vibes to it, but their storyline begins to change, and the reader starts to see the consequences of their actions after Victoria abandons her home and turns into a blood-thirsty vampire.

My romance historical novel “At Peace” is completed, so it is currently waiting to be published in the winter of 2021. I am still debating whether I want to submit it to a publisher or take the normal route and self-publish online.

“Far from Home: Book Three” was completed two months ago, during a burly Canadian winter with lots of snow and extremely frigid temperatures. Book three is hands down my favourite, and I am extremely impatient when it comes to publishing it next year. This story will generate a wide array of reactions from the audience. “Far from Home: Book Three” deals with issues of human morality, our spirituality, possibilities of reincarnations, and existentialism themes, which will clash with a lot of people’s worldview. Aodhan McVeigh also becomes very desperate in the final adaption of this book, and I believe more dangerous than ever before, especially with the supernatural powers he possesses since he is a century old vampyre with a single-minded purpose to destroy anyone that stands in his way.

You can follow my page @petergray_writer to keep up-to-date on the progress for my projects!

Other Books by Peter Gray

Visit the Amazon page of Awakening &The Tragic Tale of Teddy Woven

Amina Thajudeen Author Interview, Book Tour, Fiction, Young-Adult

“Being a writer is, knowing that your story may have a hundred other stories within it”, Robyn Bernstein on the process of writing and launching her debut novel, Songs From The Other Side

Today I’ll be hosting Robyn Bernstein on my blog. Her debut novel Songs From The Other Side is now available on Amazon.com

Robyn Bernstein is a Duke University graduate, currently living in Arizona with her husband and three children. Her fiction work is influenced by a decade of living in New York City, as she frequently highlights art, music and architecture as important aspects of her characters’ East Coast lives.

It is my pleasure to welcome Ms. Bernstein to this episode.

Me: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Robyn: I entered a writing contest for Seventeen magazine when I was fifteen. Out of thousands of entrants, my short story received honorable mention. Until then, I had never qualified myself as a writer because most of the work I did was either for academic purposes or journaling.

Me: How long have you been writing?

Robyn: I think I’ve been writing for as long as I’ve been able to pick up a pen and write, though the types of things I’ve enjoyed writing have changed dramatically. For a very long time, it was poetry or lyrics for songs. Despite early on, having won a lot of small poetry contests and even placing in that short story contest, I had always enjoyed writing as a very private thing. Most of my characters have strong elements of my own vulnerabilities and there was a sense of feeling exposed or revealed by sharing them.

Me: What inspired you to write Songs From The Other Side?

Robyn: After this past year, 2020, the confluence of hardship and loss for so many people, it seemed like Songs From The Other Side had tremendous relevance. It is is at the heart, a love story but one that taps into universal aspects of grief and how to honor and eventually overcome great loss. I wanted the writing style to be poetic, lyrical and to have the depictions and descriptions within the story be so beautiful at times that the words were comforting, even when the characters themselves were suffering.

You can now order paperback and Kindle version of Songs From The Other Side from  Amazon.com

Me: Are your characters created from scratch or are they based on people from your life?

Robyn: They came to life for me so clearly when I was writing that I can only assume they are parceled together parts of people I know. Jonah, for example, one of my absolute favorite characters has the dynamic energy and sense of humor of my husband, but also the joyful optimism of our three boys.

Me: Were there alternate endings you considered?

Robyn: I knew the ending before I knew the entire story leading my characters there. There was never another ending.

Me: What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

Robyn: I had a lot of trepidation about releasing my work to the public and I think that tapped into fears related to perfectionism. Not surprisingly, this theme shows up in some of the characters in the book but somehow they’re able to work it out in a much shorter time than me! Songs From The Other Side takes place over several months in 1985 and most of my characters are able to find some resolution before the end of that brief time.

Me: What is the most surprising thing you discovered while writing your book?

Robyn: The book alludes to the magical realism we apply to our own lives when seeking out answers, the idea that if we are attune to it, maybe there is some pattern or purpose affixed to the coincidences in life. For me, it felt like some fun universal joke to write a romantic book about messages, meaning and healing only to have the wrong manuscript be distributed when my book was first released! Why, for a book that was delayed (by me) in being released because I had such fears about perfectionism did the most flawed thing I could have foreseen actually happen? I hated but also loved the joke of it, to think that this forced me to realize that something creatively upsetting happened and I didn’t die. I fixed it and recovered which is actually the most prevalent theme of this whole book. How do we get to the other side?

Me: Who is your favourite author and why?

Robyn: Oh there are so many. Jeanette Winterson for her shattering honesty. Mary Karr for combining beauty and sorrow in her words. Donna Tartt because of her genius structuring of stories.

Me: What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Robyn: Mary Karr. I love her ideas on framing, that how you tell a story is based on the perception of what took place. Something can happen and yet two people see the same thing differently. She writes about her own life but not all of her family members have the exact same or choose to allow themselves to have the exact same memories. That to me is what being a writer is, knowing that your story may have a hundred other stories within it.

Me: What is the best piece of advice you received about writing?

Robyn: Write every day. Sometimes my daily writing doesn’t actually get written down though. Sometimes I simply run little scripts of ideas or thoughts in my head, small character sketches. I find it generates a creativity without scattering it too far so that when I actually do sit down to write, I always have a starting point. Sometimes my starting point is – why didn’t I write that down! But at least this way, I never feel writer’s block, something else maybe, but never writer’s block.

Me: What inspires you to get out of bed each day?

Robyn: Excitement to see what’s going to happen next. And also my youngest two kids are still in the stage of high energy and constant creativity. So, I think curiosity about what they’ve done in the kitchen plays a role.

Me: If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Robyn: Curious, Enthusiastic and Passionate

Me: Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Robyn: Allow yourself the separation required to write, to really step back from the world when you need to go inward and be interior to put your thoughts on paper because in order to have topics to write about, you’ll have to eventually pick your head back up and be able to engage and interact again. I think this balance is easier if you fully live in each space when you need to.

Me: Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?

Robyn: Yes! I am almost done with my second book called Too Cold For Snow. I am so excited about this book about four wealthy sisters during the financial collapse of 2008. Each one has such an intriguing story line, all set in the desolate cold of a Connecticut winter.

You can follow my page @nycazwriter to keep up-to-date on the progress for this project!

About the book

Songs from the other side by Robyn Bernstein

Newly orphaned, Jayne reads her father’s physics notebook to comfort herself. The journal is filled with private lectures and hand written theories. These writings mirror the darkly restrictive circumstances unfolding in Jayne’s life, but also foresee the chance encounter with Jonah, another science nerd who may guide her through her grief. Despite the punishing judgment inflicted by Aunt Pauline, a religious zealot and Jayne’s new guardian, Jayne believes the contents of her father’s journal provide secret messages for her, encouraging her and Jonah to enroll together in a science contest that takes place in New York City. Jayne and Jonah’s friendship grows as they begin to plan their escape, hoping to win prize money for proving the science of salvation. But is Jayne willing to betray the lessons in the journal when they no longer align with what she and Jonah ultimately intend to do? Only Jayne can decide if new love is worth the risk of losing her last connection to her Mom and Dad.

Purchase here: Amazon.com

Connect with Robyn on Instagram

Amina Thajudeen Author Interview, Book Review, Book Tour, Poems, poetry

“Creativity can never be killed but that doesn’t stop people from trying”, mokradi on the process of writing and launching his debut collection, The Personal Diary of Mr. Heartsleeve

Today I’ll be hosting mokradi on my blog. His debut collection The Personal Diary of Mr. Heartsleeve is now available on Amazon.com

mo-kra-di (he/him/his) is an Indian storyteller and chronicler who uses digital media as his primary platform for artistic expression. mokradi engages directly with readers through social platforms where he showcases his work and interacts with a thriving community of thousands. In the years to come, he hopes to continue his digital exploration of themes ranging in masculinity, migration to spirituality and self-identity.

It is my pleasure to welcome mokradi to this episode.

Me: If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

mokradi: I am not too sure but now I am curious to know! I regularly post poems and prose, some even attempting to describe myself, on my instagram page @mokradi_ 

I think if you get to know me through my work you are welcome to try!

Me: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? How long have you been writing?

mokradi: I can still recall my tiny white eyes opening wide with unfettered excitement on opening one of my very first books: an illustrated poetry magazine by Sukumar Rai, a renowned Indian writer fondly remembered for his poems for children. I was maybe six or seven at the time.

As any child, I was captivated by the bright drawings of characters and scenes in this children’s book but for the first time I was drawn to the words. The effect words had in rhyming was so magical to me and how Rai effortlessly created these sonic worlds that told a story, all coming out from the nib of his pen!

I feel my artistic expression began very shortly after. I would pick up random crayons, red, blue or yellow and start scribbling over these very same pages with my own inspired rhymes. They probably didn’t make much sense, but the fact I could rhyme this word with that word and make a verse was an exhilarating affair. I don’t think I have stopped since.

Me: What inspired you to write The Personal Diary of Mr. Heartsleeve?

mokradi: Although this fascination for poetry continued throughout my childhood, it really started to take shape during my University days in Canada.

University is an ideal space to explore different forms of expression without worrying about it defining you. I started to take courses in writing and poetry even though I was pursuing a Science degree. Now looking back, I am beyond grateful for the tools these courses provided not only in writing but also in my day-to-day life.

On the other hand, University can also be quite a dark environment. During my four years, I saw many friends endure academic stress, financial hardship, break ups and other emotionally-draining experiences. These first-hand encounters sparked the image of a young adult in me: a boy trying to come to terms with a rapidly changing world, both from outside and from within.

Mr. Heartsleeve was born.

Based on these observations, I began creating these stories within stories you will read in the book. These stories explore the nature of sadness in young people, what it means to love, to lose, to consume and to grow up.

You can now order your official paperback of The Personal Diary of Mr. Heartsleeve across Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, Amazon.fr, Amazon.it, Amazon.es or Amazon.co.jp.

Me: What is the most difficult part of your artistic process? Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

mokradi: This is a great question and the answer might already be embedded in there somewhere: The process is key I think. Trusting the process is the most difficult part.

Some days you come up with great material, other days you spend twice as much time, but nothing comes. This unreliability can be very frustrating, and you might stress and tell yourself you are no longer creative and that spontaneous part of you has died.

Creativity can never be killed but that doesn’t stop people from trying. Our minds are quick to self-sabotage and abandon the process. However in my experience, I feel we never really possessed this creativity to begin with, but it was something we tapped into, perhaps after having earned its trust first.

You have to trust the process, only then does creativity let you in, even if it’s for a short while. Once you are in, you just hold on and the rest it will do. It might then decide to suddenly leave you, don’t take it too personally, be grateful that when it left, it left you with all these gems in your hand that you can then reveal to others. Trust the process, have faith in it. 

Me: What books or authors have most influenced your own writing? Who is your favourite author and why?

mokradi: Ahh.. so many to name! I’m fortunate enough to have been surrounded by a diverse group of friends growing up who introduced me to many inspiring authors that have shaped my style.

Some that come to mind would be Roald Dahl, R.K Narayan, Franz Kafka, Murakami, George Orwell, Syliva Path, Sarojini Naidu, Miss Louise Bennett, Adichie Chimamanda and so on!

Fascinatingly enough my favourite author at the moment is one of the greatest painters the world has known, Vincent Van Gogh. I chanced upon a book of his in a dusty second-hand book store. It is a collection of intimate letters he wrote to this brother, ironically much like a personal diary! I find his writing to be so eloquent, maybe even slightly better than his paintings.

Me: Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?

mokradi: Yes, I am already working on my next poetry book which is rooted in themes of migration.

Each year, millions of people, now more so, begin an astounding journey to leave their homeland, in search of a new country to call home. Whether by choice or force, these travellers endure great adversities that they must overcome.

My next book will highlight these endeavours, as I too draw on my personal migration story, describing the challenges encountered in adapting to a new way of life, having moved from India to Canada almost a decade ago!

You can follow my page @mokradi_ to keep up-to-date on the progress for this project!

About the book

The Personal Diary of Mr. Heartsleeve is a collection of poetry and prose dedicated to the nature of sadness and the wisdom that emerges from its exploration. Through Mr. Heartsleeve’s Personal Diary, the reader probes answers to profound questions like: what is sadness made of?

Is the nature of suffering the same in everyone?
Is there an ending to attachment?

With each diary entry, the sense of separation between the reader and Mr. Heartsleeve seems to collapse leading one to inquire whether Mr. Heartsleeve and his Personal Diary could’ve ever existed outside of us?

Purchase link: Amazon.com

Connect with mokradi here: Instagram

Amina Thajudeen Author Interview, Book Review, Book Tour, Erotic fiction, Young-Adult

An Interview with Amercia Morris| The Quintessential Author And Content Creator Taking the World By Storm

Considered as a visionary by peers and audience, Author And Content Creator Amercia Morris’s strength lies in her ability to see the big picture

Amercia Morris is an author and content creator who was brought up in the city of Buffalo, New York. She graduated with a degree in Social Sciences from Erie Community College. Known as a talented lady with vision, Amercia Morris’s life mission is to inspire and encourage others to live the life of achievers, full of abundance and fulfilment by creating an inspiring environment.  This is because she has quite an influential aura and inspiring personality.

Amercia has always loved writing and has freelanced for various online magazines and blogs. She is currently operating her own web blog Nooky life. Her first novella, Planet Nooky has already been published. Also a fiction novel Blooms of Nooky following that and many more promised to come.

It is my pleasure to welcome Ms. Amercia Morris to this episode.

Me: What inspired you to write Blooms of Nooky?

Ms. Morris:  I wrote Blooms of Nooky, to shed light on Kinks and fetishes mainly in the African American community and promoting sex in a light where we can be free and respected as individuals. It has been a constant fetishization of black women and we see women being degraded a lot in the media. When it comes to sexuality, men as well. But here, I wrote this book where a beautiful intelligent young black woman who is introduced into this depiction of a secret society and is happy and respected and not degrades or demeaned or shamed for merely being herself intimately. And it says being kinky is ok.

Amazon.com

Me: Are your characters created from scratch or are they based on people from your life?

Ms. Morris: These characters are completely new and fresh. Of course as a writer we were given the advice to write what we know of. So Ebony’s personality is taken from myself and some of my favorites like Betsey Johnson. I absolutely love Betsey Johnson and everything she designs. That was Ebony’s inspiration as a fashion designer along with Gi Gi and Nathan. They all have pieces of me in their development but the events are all created by me. Some may stem from real life experiences like hooking up with the wrong guy but none of the same. When I write or create something, I like it to be original as possible as that leaves mystery and suspense. I will be coming out with a memoir very soon which will help people as well. I researched a lot while writing my books. Because I try to make accurate descriptions and give solid information that can be fact checked. So that my readers can actually dive into my work and relating to the things which is happening.

Me: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?        

Ms. Morris: Since my childhood, I had a fascination of words, especially with the English language. Because most words in the American English language have several meanings and tenses. Which is why I choose the word Nooky. Because, even though there is a mainstream meaning for nooky, it can really mean anything you want it to be. So with that base, I started writing using the new words I learned and fell in love with. I continued to write here and there, mostly in a way to express myself clearly. Once I was introduced to poetry, that’s when I fell in love and realized that I enjoyed it and was good at it.

Me: How long have you been writing?

Ms. Morris: I have been writing for entertainment purposes since I was 15/16 as a sophomore in High school.

Me: What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

Ms. Morris: The most difficult part is making sure your message is clear within a length of time you believe is suitable. I myself like to get straight into the point in a sense I like to give as much punch as possible. I want my readers to want more. That is why I leave each writing ready for a sequel.

Me: What is the most surprising thing you discovered while writing your book?

Ms. Morris: Hmm… good question. I think it must be that I discovered more of myself. Meaning, I never know where my imagination will take me to. For each book I published, I started with an outline of idea and characters. But I keep surprising myself as to where it actually takes me.

Me: Who is your favourite author and why?

Ms. Morris: I would say Toni cade Bambara. Bambara used her writing to inspire and ignite change. Her stories were entertaining and also educating. She wrote short stories which I love and there is not a lot of black women who write short stories. She wasn’t afraid to speak her mind and touch on an array of different subjects. She did not box herself into a certain genre or field. She was an author, activist and a teacher. She also pursued many other interests like arts.

Me: What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Ms. Morris: Donald Goines is an inspiring author. Unlike Bambara, he was not formally educated. Meaning he wrote without having a college degree. He was actually an ex-con and started writing in jail. From there, he was able to produce amazing content that is still respected today. He broke barriers and beat the odds and stereotypes of a black man of his history, during his time.

Me: Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Ms. Morris: Yes I would say, to  be patient with yourself and don’t be afraid to start over. When I was writing my first book, I was literally a couple hundred words away from finishing it and I lost the whole of what I wrote, and I had to start over. I cried and cried. I lost a lot of my work prior to that as well. They were destroyed some way or other like my broken laptop or my notebooks being literally eaten by my dog, which is so ironic. But never give up on what you love and your gift.

Me: What is the best piece of advice you received about writing?

Ms. Morris: I actually didn’t received any advice. I actually wish, I would have been given the gift of a mentor. I am actually still searching for one. Ha ha… so if anyone is out there, seasoned and listening, please contact me.

Connect with Ms. Amercia Morris here Instagram: @Planet_nooky and: @Nookyis Email: mercy@nooky.life

Me: What inspires you to get out of bed each day? 

Ms. Morris: Knowing that I have a new chance to achieve my goals, and move beyond of what is expected of me. Literally one day can be the worse day and in the next, you will be ready to faint at what has been presented to you. All we need is an opportunity in life and perseverance. We will succeed because we, who strive will find a way for each interaction and each encounter as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Me: If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Ms. Morris: Bold, Fierce and Honest

Me: Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?

Ms. Morris: I Have a website dedicated to assist those who are in the process of healing from trauma. It is not intended to replace the traditional medicine but aid in the process by allowing you to read different articles and link with peers. It is also a way to explore kinks and fetishes from people who actually experienced those and not just researched. I want to connect with people in the most organic and honest way. I also am going to release a part 2 of Planet Nooky and Blooms of nooky. I have more than ten works that have not been published. So I have lots of content and fresh ideas that come to me consistently. So please stay tuned and you will be surprised.

Author bio

Amercia Morris is not the type of person who can be easily categorized in a few written notes. She can be best described as a multi-talented go-getter who identifies numerous opportunities and successfully grabs them immediately. Her education and life journey have provided her with a unique set of skills that led to the establishment and hosting of Planet Nooky, a TV show and podcast that is a spinoff of her first Urban Erotic Science Fiction. She Also Co-Hosts and creates content for NookyAfter Dark, which is both dedicated to a sex-positive environment.

Amercia has always loved writing and has freelanced for various online magazines and blogs. She is currently operating her own web blog Nooky life and her first novella, Planet Nooky has already been published. Also a fiction novel Blooms of Nooky following that and more promised to come.

In her free time, Amercia likes gardening, visiting museums, going to outdoor parties, traveling, swimming and exploring the world around her. She loves playing games of all sorts and when the time comes for relaxing it is often with a glass of her favorite wine. Previously she was a supporter of and volunteer for The Restore Program, RAINN, and The Geva Theatre. Today, she spends her time between her home in Buffalo and Atlanta Ga.

She is also exploring a career as a Certified Sex Coach in the hope that she can help other women, and men, who may have reservations or fears about sex because of past traumas and hopefully to aid in their healing and ability to have a healthy and happy sex life.

With the iconic success, Amercia Morris has garnered much respect and recognition at such a young age. An epic axiom ‘hard work pays off’ has been an inspiration. Yet, she aspires to achieve more. It is her wish to create a community where we see the true value in our bodies and relationships and use what we have been given to heal each other and not to hurt. She is hopeful that this will enable her to expand nationwide/worldwide and have hubs of little Planet Nooky in all corners of the globe.

For more information about Amercia Morris, her personal story, and her businesses, You can contact or follow her on:

Instagram: @Planet_nooky and: @Nookyis

Facebook: Exquisitemercyllc

Email: mercy@nooky.life

Planet Nooky Amazon.com

Blooms of Nooky Amazon.com

Amina Thajudeen Author Interview, Book Review, Book Tour, Fiction, Thriller

An Interview with Ronald S. Barak| Author of JK’s Code

Today I’ll be hosting  author Ronald S. Barak on my blog. His book “JK’s Code” is available on Amazon.com

Ronald S. Barak

Ronald S. Barak, bestselling author, Olympic athlete, law school honors graduate, and experienced courtroom lawyer, is uniquely qualified to write his novels that appeal to all political and legal thriller fans.

Described by his readers as a cross between Agatha Christie, Lee Child, and John Lescroart, bestselling author Barak keeps his readers flipping the pages into the wee hours of the night. While he mostly lets his characters tell his stories, he manages to get his licks in too.

Barak derives great satisfaction from knowing that his books not only entertain but also stimulate others to think about how things might be, how people can actually resolve real-world problems. In particular, Barak tackles the country’s dysfunctional government representatives–not just back-seat driving criticism for the sake of being a back-seat driver, but truly framing practical remedies to the political abuse and corruption adversely affecting too many people’s lives today. Barak’s extensive legal background and insight allow him to cleverly pollinate his fiction and today’s sad state of political reality.

Barak resides in Pacific Palisades, California, where he is hard at work on his next novel, JK’s Code.

Me: What inspired you to transition from lawyer to fiction writer? 

Ronald: I wrote my first novel on a dare from some friends while I was still practicing law full time. I had so much fun writing that first novel that the transition from lawyer to fiction writer became a no brainer.

Me: How did practicing law help with being a writer?

Ronald: My novels are legal and political thrillers. I was already a political junkie and knew from every day reading what was current. My legal background helped me write my novels without having to do much research. My first novel, The Amendment Killer, took me the better part of a year to write. Practice makes better if not perfect; I wrote JK’s Code in six weeks. This would not have been as easy for me or as timely if I didn’t have the law practice background that I do.

Me: How would you describe your writing process (plotter versus pantser)?

Ronald: I am definitely a pantser. I typically have only one or two thoughts in my head about the plot and the possible outcome when I begin writing. Each day, I review what I wrote the prior day (and clean it up) and then keep going from there. The story often turns out quite a bit different than I originally anticipated. In the case of JK’s Code, I originally thought I was going to write a story about crypto currency crime and, given what was going on in the world, I completely changed that to cybersecurity crime.

Me: I see in your bio that you were an Olympic athlete. How does preparing and competing compare to writing a novel?

Ronald: I was an Olympic gymnast. Writing a novel is kind of like mental gymnastics. One is physical and the other is mental, but they are remarkably similar in terms of practice and focus. The more you practice and focus, the better athlete you can become (assuming a certain amount of innate ability in your genes). The more you practice and focus, the better writer you can become. I think my earlier discipline as an athlete has definitely helped me as a writer.

Me: Tell us a little about the Brooks/Lotello series.

Ronald: When I was dared by some friends to write a novel, and dared to rise to the challenge, I figured out I should write what I liked reading, political and legal suspense and mysteries. I also figured I should write what I know. I had extensive experience as a trial lawyer and to a lesser extent as a trial judge. From there, I created my primary protagonist, Cyrus Brooks, a retired U.S. District Court judge, who kind of thinks and looks like I do, and has a personality and sense of humor similar to mine. I love Constitutional Law (it take all kinds of law and it takes all kinds of people, what can I say?). So, I dreamed up the issue of whether amending the Constitution requires Congressional participation. I needed a victim. I created a precocious 11 year old granddaughter of a Supreme Court Justice. I forced him to choose between saving the country and saving the life of his granddaughter, who was kidnapped by a psychopath wanting to control the outcome of a Supreme Court case about whether an amendment to the Constitution opposed by Congress could still be valid. Because I am diabetic and know the subject, I made the kidnapped youngster diabetic to add considerable complication and tension to the story. Because I’m a pantser, these complications arose as I wrote and not at all neatly in advance. I called that first novel The Amendment Killer because the bad guy, a government spook wanted to kill that Constitutional amendment. In my next novel, The Puppet Master, Cyrus Brooks and his colleague Frank Lotello, a homicide detective, are tasked with finding a vigilante serial killer, a puppet master you might say, assassinating corrupt government officials because he feels they had stripped him of everything he had, his family, his business, his dignity and—maybe—even his sanity. The third novel in my Brooks/Lotello series, Payback, was about a psychopathic serial killer at an international writing conference killing prominent writing personalities because he believed they were not paying him the proper respect as a writer. Some think this killer reflects how I feel as a writer. (You do have to be able to laugh at yourself!) Brooks just happened to be at the conference studying to write a novel of his own. In my latest Brooks/Lotello novel, JK’s Code, a young college technology genius who happens to be the brother-in-law of Frank Lotello stumbles across the plot of a U.S. president to assure his continuing control of the country, right down to the events of January 6. However did I imagine such a story in mid-2020?

Me: JK’s Code is your 4th book in the series. What is it about?

Ronald: In my latest Brooks/Lotello novel, JK’s Code, a young college technology genius who happens to be the brother-in-law of Frank Lotello, one of the two protagonists in the Brooks/Lotello series, stumbles across the plot of a U.S. president to assure his continuing control of the country, right down to the events of January 6. However did I imagine such a story in mid-2020?

Me: What are some of the challenges when writing about real-time issues?

Ronald: Keeping them timely, often referred to as “ripped from the headlines.” In my opinion, to really be “timely,” it is necessary to do your writing before the headlines happen. In The Puppet Master, the second in my Brooks/Lotello series, the killer asserts a legal defense to murder that had never been tried in the real-world courts. Two years later, a real-world serial killer asserted that very defense, which went all the way up to the U.S. Supreme Court. In my latest in the series, JK’s Code, the fictional U.S. president attempted a coup to take over the government. I wrote that seven months before it happened on January 6. I refer to the challenge of writing about real-time issues as having to be creative, to have an imagination on steroids one might say, and to dream up things that might happen before they do in the real world. I might have liked JK’s Code to be traditionally published, but that would have taken another year to come to market and by then it would not have been as timely as when it was released, before many of the events I imagined came to pass.

Me: Where do you get the ideas for your stories?

Ronald: The short answer is “I don’t know.” Sometimes they come to me in my sleep. I just wake up with a thought, jot it down on a post-it note and go back to sleep. Sometimes it comes to me when I’m playing golf or exercising. Sometimes it comes to me when I’m watching or reading the news or a movie and I say “What if . . . ?” The key is to jot down a few words before you forget the idea.

Me: Are your characters created from scratch or are they based on people from your life?

Ronald: Most of the time, they are based on people that I observe in real life. Brooks is very similar to . . . me. Lotello is quite similar to our son. The president in JK’s Code bears a remarkable similarity in personality to Donald Trump. In fact, I’m quite apolitical. I picked on Trump because he was there and people would see who I was mimicking. My next novel might very well pick on Biden. The 11 year old kidnapped granddaughter of a U.S. Supreme Court justice in The Amendment Killer has diabetes. So do I. I used that trait because I know the subject well and could write about it without having to do much research. I also think it’s a subject that can benefit from more attention. Payback involves a novelist who is a psychopathic serial killer and thought he deserves more recognition. Was I thinking of me? Hardly, but it always helps to be able to laugh at yourself.

Me: What is the most challenging part of the writing process for you?

Ronald: If by “process,” you mean the art of writing, I don’t have an answer. If you enjoy writing as much as I do and you are patient, the process will come to you. If you include in process everything that goes with a writing career, then the most challenging part of the writing business is, hands down, building a market and a brand. If you’re an athlete, as I have been, then all you have to do is be talented and work hard. If you’re a lawyer, as I am, then all you have to do is be talented and work hard. If you’re a writer, as I strive to be, it is not enough to be talented and work hard. There are many talented novelists who have worked very hard who you’ve never heard of. You need a little bit of luck to go with the talent and effort.

Me: What is the best piece of advice you received about writing?

Ronald: Write what you know and what you love.

Me: What is the worst piece of advice you received about writing?

Ronald: Write a good story and the readers will come.

Synopsis

Genre(s): Political Thriller; Contemporary Fiction

“Twenty year old computer genius Jake Klein, known to his friends as JK, drops out of college to pursue fortune and fame in the field of cybersecurity. Discovering and upending a conspiracy between the presidents of Russia and America to manipulate the results of the 2020 U.S. presidential election, JK finds himself in a deadly game of cat and mouse with the heads of state of two of the world’s most powerful countries—with the emphasis on deadly. Revealing the truth to the world definitely comes with a price. The fourth in the bestselling Brooks/Lotello novels, JK’s Code, is a political thriller teeming with real-time events, satire, suspense, and just a hint of romance that couldn’t come any closer to the realities of 2020 if JK were covertly dividing his time between the White House and the Kremlin—which he may just be.”

Purchase here: Amazon.com

Connect with Ronald Facebook Twitter Instagram

Amina Thajudeen Author Interview, Book Tour, Fantacy, Fiction, Thriller, Young-Adult

An Interview with Blair James Steward| Author of “Miracle Uprising”

Today I’ll be hosting  author Blair James Steward on my blog. His book “Miracle Uprising” is available on Amazon.com

Me: What inspired you to start writing Miracle Uprising?

Blair: I was given a lot of pain with the life I was given. I needed an outlet to vent this agony and to escape my reality. Miracle Uprising was the world I created to make sense of everything in my mind. It was a free therapy tool.

Me: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Blair: I was very young, I would write down elaborate stories as a kid. I did not know that it was my escape at the time, but it was. I was probably about 10 years old when I chose writing as a source of expression.

Me: How long have you been writing?

Blair: Well, 20 years if you want to pair it with the last response. I published my first book almost 4 years ago. I worked as a freelance writer before that, but they were more informative than creative.

Me: What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

Blair: Editing is such a struggle for me. I’m good at it, I just hate it. Any writers that are reading this and love editing should consider themselves lucky.

Me: What is the most surprising thing you discovered while writing your book?

Blair: It really is a freeing process. I was homeless, and the only thing that kept me alive was the ability to write in a public library. I’ve been blessed tenfold since then, but I still find freedom in creative writing.

Me: Who is your favourite author, and why?

Blair: J.R.R. Tolkien and Mitch Albom are tied. Tolkien can create depth and reality with his own vision. Albom can explain feelings that nobody else can find words for.

Me: What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Blair: To be perfectly honest with you, I have found this influence in lyrics. Pink Floyd has explained my agony back to me in three separate albums. The Beatles turn words in emotion like nobody else can. Led Zeppelin is a quenching taste of both of these elements. If I had to put them in order, I would say The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and Pink Floyd.

Me: Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Blair: Do not hesitate to write your thoughts down. Write everything you want to express and don’t look back. That’s what editing is for, and perhaps why I hate it.

Me: If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Father, Husband, Anomaly

Me: Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?

Blair: I am working on the sequel to Miracle Uprising. Fans, please be patient with me. I have two children in diapers, and I am a full-time student. Thank you so much for the overwhelming support!

About the Book

The book is originally published independently in 2017 but it received an update in 2020. The story is about a boy that has to face multiple battles in his teenage life. Forbidden love and facing actual warfare is just part of his life, but his biggest challenge he needs to face is the internal battle. A mental battle defines his everyday life. This book is the biography of the protagonist, a boy who is just seeking understanding and relief. The author wrote this book during the worst years of his life and this story helped him to cope with depression and the traumatic past, it was his escape from the real world. The book uses a lot of characteristics of high fantasy books. If you want to dig into the rabbit hole, this psychological thriller is definitely a unique choice.

Purchase here: Amazon.com Amazon.in

About the Author

Blair James Steward is an avid fan of psychological thrillers and enjoys writing books that’ll keep people guessing until the very last page. As a father, he also hopes to instill a love of reading in his children. After telling them stories, he finally decided to write out the stories he tells them into children’s books so other families can enjoy them.

With five books written, he’s always focused on the next story he wants to tell. Blair lives in Montgomery, Pennsylvania, with his wife and children. When he’s not writing, he’s making music, being a family man, and searching for inspiration for his next stories.

Reach out to Blair Facebook Instagram

Amina Thajudeen Author Interview, Book Review, Book Tour, Thriller

An Interview with Stuart Pittorino | Author of The Cobra Corridor

Today I’ll be hosting  author Stuart Pittorino on my blog. His new book “The Cobra Corridor” is available on Amazon.com

Why did you choose to write this book?

I thought about what is the most dangerous weapon mankind has ever made? And then, what if it were to fall into the wrong hands? Would a traitor from the White House, Pentagon or somewhere in the military be in play? Then, why would global intelligence agencies like MI6, Mossad and Hezbollah be involved?

I found the answers to the first two questions and a covert action book started to take form. Then, all I wanted was for readers just to have a good time and escape – like being submerged in some of the best international military fiction thrillers.

Why would someone want to read your book?

Unforgettable characters with plot twists. I like to write for an audience first so it must be fast-paced and a real page-turner. With storytelling advancing over the last 20 years I chose a visual style to take my readers to the next level.

If you want excitement, escapism and enjoyment, like a James Bond or Mission Impossible good time, then go click the purchase button and enjoy the ride!

How far into the next book of this series are you?

That’s hilarious. Let’s wait and see if this becomes one of Amazon books best sellers in 2021 fiction.

What do you love about the writing process?

Life can be full of routine and hard work so the chance to dream, dwell and disappear into a fantasy world for a few hours is a real bonus.

Any tips for publishing?

Make sure your book is enrolled in Kindle Unlimited Free Books.

What advice would you give aspiring authors?

The audience is smarter than you think. Respect them. WOW them!

About the Book

18 HOURS…

IS IT ENOUGH TO FIND A BETRAYED ARMS DEALER HIDING IN BEIRUT?

AND STOP A MISSILE STRIKE?

★★★★★ “If you are a fan of spy action books this is one you don’t want to miss.”

★★★★★ “Definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat and wanting to read the last page first.”

★★★★★ “Gimme more…”

For fans of Brad Thor’s Scot Harvath, David Baldacci’s Will Robie and Lee Child’s Jack Reacher.

James Cable is delighting, resting in his post-traumatic stress state, as all hell breaks loose inside the Situation Room. Syrian terrorists hiding out in Beirut are threatening a missile strike on two American cities.

Clandestine Operations urgently call him in to save the lives of hundreds of thousands. But placing this operations officer from the CIA alongside his brother John in a special black ops team is no one’s first choice.

Disaster strikes right at the start en route to Beirut when James disobeys orders in an F-22 dogfight and the whole team gets blown out of the sky. James and John are the only ones able to eject over the southern countryside of Lebanon.

They are now left with only eight hours on this dangerous mission to hunt for the terrorists and save the lives of millions across what the CIA, NSA & DOD term The Cobra Corridor – all area between the thirty fifth and fortieth northern parallels which includes China, North Korea, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Syria and The United States of America.”

If you enjoy Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, Robert Ludlum’s Jason Bourne and Vince Flynn’s Mitch Rapp this fast-paced spy thriller is one you don’t want to miss.

★★★★★ “Nailed it! It kept me guessing throughout and held my interest to the end.”

★★★★★ “Such a great read! I was looking for something that would keep me entertained and this book certainly did that.”

Purchase here: Amazon.in Amazon.com

About the Author

Author Stuart Pittorino

Stuart Pittorino was born in Johannesburg, South Africa and has spent the last 18 years producing in the Film & TV industry.

He lives in Cape Town below Table Mountain with his wife Nicole and son James.

Big bold bottles of red wine are his favorite whilst gazing off into the distance collecting his thoughts on a heart-racing espionage action thriller.

Purchase The Cobra Corridor Amazon.com Amazon.in

Amina Thajudeen Author Interview, Book Review, Fiction

An Interview with DL White|Author of Brunch at Ruby’s

Today I’ll be hosting Atlanta based acclaimed women’s fiction and romance author DL White on my blog. Her new book “Brunch at Ruby’s” is available at Amazon.com and her website booksbydlwhite.com for purchase.

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Me: What inspired you to start writing Brunch at Ruby’s?

DL: I was a member of a long-running brunch group (still going, ten years strong) and was so moved and inspired by the women in our group. We are all from different backgrounds, careers, walks of life but always have wisdom and a good word for each other. They are among the women I go to when I need rock-solid guidance and camaraderie. I also took a lot from current events at the time I was writing the book. There was a local scandal that was all over the news and I started to think what if???? And my writer’s brain took over from there.

Me: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

DL: I think I was maybe in grade 3, when we had to do spelling words and use them in a sentence, so the teacher knew we understood the meaning of the word. I would loop my sentences together into one big story. My teacher LOVED that and I discovered that people thought that stuff I was doing to amuse myself was cool so I kept doing it.

Me: How long have you been writing?

DL: I’ve been writing for publication since 2011, but I’m a lifelong writer.

Me: What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

DL: Original creation. Forming the story in my mind- some much of it comes to me as I am writing, then putting it on paper and making it sound the way I want it to sound.

Me: What is the most surprising thing you discovered while writing your book?

DL: There was so much that I didn’t know… people who don’t know writing think its really easy. You just sit down and the words come but it’s not like that, and there’s so much more to writing than writing.

Me: Who is your favorite author and why?

DL: I don’t really have a favorite, but I almost always mention Atlanta author Tayari Jones. She and her career are a blessing to me.

Me: What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

DL: Terry McMillan and Eric Jerome Dickey for sure. Down to earth, realistic characters with a distinctive voice.

Me: Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

DL: It’s super hard to take this advice, but I’m going to offer it anyway: relax. The story will come. Build the habit of showing up to your writing job and the words will meet you.

Me: If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

DL: Funny, personable, warm

Me: Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?

DL: Yes! I have a novel that I’m wrapping up now called The Never List, a romantic comedy about a woman who’s got a long list of things she’s never done and the man that wants to help her clear that list.

About the book

51urJr7q36LThree Friends. One City.Waiting to Exhale in the “A.”
Brunch at Ruby’s is warm, funny southern women’s fiction about finding and keeping love, lifelong friendships with women who are like sisters and the bonds between them that bend but don’t break.

Debra Macklin is the envy of her friends. She has it all: a successful career, a long marriage and a happy child, but she’s hiding an explosive secret that could not only shatter her perfect image but destroy her marriage and career.

Maxine Donovan is self-made, admittedly shallow and unapologetic, having overcome her past to live the life she deserves to live.But despite her success, she’s on a constant quest for Mr. Right. Handsome but aloof Malcolm Brooks could be The One, except his attentions are focused on someone else entirely. Does Maxine fight for him like she fought for everything else?

Renee Gladwell left a life and a handsome boyfriend to return to Atlanta and nurse her father and Gladwell Books back to health. Four years later, she’s struggling with his Alzheimer’s diagnosis and a bookstore that is in no shape to sell. Renee is in limbo, caring for a man who is slowly forgetting his past, including her. When she meets Malcolm Brooks, her life brightens, but is love ever worth risking a friendship?

Brunch at Ruby’s is Book One in a growing series set in the heart of Decatur, Georgia.

Purchase here: https://geni.us/BrunchatRuby

About the Author

6167u9JD+LL._SY600_Atlanta based women’s fiction and romance author DL White began seriously pursuing a writing career in 2011. She harbors a love for coffee and brunch, especially on a patio, but her true obsession is water– lakes, rivers, oceans, waterfalls! On the weekend, you’ll probably find her near water and if she’s lucky, on an ocean beach. When not writing books, she devours them. She blogs reviews and thoughts on writing and books at BooksbyDLWhite.com.

 

 

Amina Thajudeen Author Interview, Fantacy, Fiction, Thriller

An Interview with Rick Zazueta|Author of “Baja Air & Sea”

Today I’ll be hosting author Rick Zazueta on my blog. His debut book, “Baja Air & Sea” is available at Amazon.com.

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Me: What is your book about?

Rick: Baja Air & Sea is a novel about a stolen yacht and the adventures that happen aboard this vessel. The book, like everything in this world, is about the human condition.

Big Money. Big Yachts. Big Adventures.

Behind every great fortune there is a great crime. Julian Mayorca wasn’t always a billionaire. At one point he was an honorable port captain and legendary yachtsman, but a single temptation—a crime of opportunity—leads him down a path of betrayal, passion, power, and the sea.

Baja Air & Sea, a high end crime-thriller set in La Paz, Mexico, begins with the story of Julian Mayorca. As a port captain, he manages the harbor and oversees a fifty-million-dollar budget. His only mistake? Being incorruptible.

On a sunny day, his cousin, Alex Cuevas, who works for a notorious criminal, holds a gun to Julian’s head and forces him to sign resignation papers. A series of questionable decisions cause Julian to transition into the entrepreneur he never set out to be. What follows is six years of Julian’s life; his voyages, romances, mishaps, and how a need for revenge leads to immense fortune and adventure he never thought possible.

Me: It is quite an adventure. What inspired the plot?

Rick: I was a yacht steward aboard a luxury yacht on the Sea Cortez. I met so many characters and had so many adventures during my time at sea. But it wasn’t just the life at sea that inspired me, it was living in this “other Mexico” that made it all the more interesting. There are two Baja Californias, the expat community and the locals, and as a Mexican-American bilingual person, I was able to seamlessly navigate these two worlds that seem so different. After some time, I began to realize that other than the language barrier, the two Bajas are essentially the same. So I started thinking about blending the two cultures and writing a book in that tone.

Baja Cover Only (1)

 Purchase here: Amazon

Me: Why did you choose to have the story take place in Baja California?

Rick: I love Baja California. I’ve always been completely passionate about it. It’s a land so unique and so full of tales that I wanted to be a part of its folklore. The story only makes sense in Baja California, because of many factors; its proximity to the US, and the influence it directly has on Mexican culture, the climate, the sea, the desert, the tourism, the corruption, the food and lifestyle, for me it was just a perfect pot to stir.

 Me: You have a lot of colorful and creative characters. Did you think them up from scratch or were they inspired by people you know?

Rick: Stephen King said that all characters are a combination of three people; Somebody you know, yourself, and somebody you imagine. So, yes all characters are a play on that. I have always been a curious person and I’ve always been more interested in people than in anything else, so I like to observe human beings, how they are, how they react, their sense of humor, their sense of style, I can be a big extrovert, so I meet a lot of people and pay attention to their lives.

Me: What are some of the more powerful themes that your characters struggle within the book?

Rick: Lust, revenge, selling out, greed, faith, love, and destiny. The characters I write are real people to me. I treat them with respect and I try to get to know them. I am aware that they have complex lives and I am grateful that they let me in to see what’s going on in their world.

Me: What type of reader would enjoy this book?

Rick: I wrote this book to inspire people with a tale of adventure, passion, desire, and the sea. If life has gotten too predictable, if you need an escape into a tangible world of excitement and want to get completely lost in the waves of the ocean and in the luxury of big yachts and Eurocopters, then this book might be for you.

Me: What did you learn about yourself while writing this book?

Rick: Writing a novel is a long journey, and I learned not to judge myself more harshly than I would others. I learned that if I treat these characters with respect, I have to treat myself and those around me with that same respect. So if I commit a mistake, I just erase it and continue.

 Me: Who is your favorite character and why?

Rick: Papa Fabio is the money man; he doesn’t get as much attention as he deserves, but for me, this guy is a huge success story. Born to a family of miners in the small town of El Triunfo, developed into a mathematical genius from a young age, got a scholarship to La Paz Technical Institute, and then a masters degree from MIT. Now an adviser to the UN on international tax code, a great financial analyst, rogue investment banker, and CPA.

About the Author

Rick Zazueta resides in Baja California alongside his wife, Geraldine, and their two kids; Maximo and Larissa. When away from his duties, he plays professional croquet as a member of the Mexico national team. Baja Air & Sea is his first novel.

Connect with him: Instagram