Blog Archives
I Think That Is Kinda Funny
Growing Down follows two drunk men who spend the day running around town trying to make up for what they feel is lost time in life. What was the inspiration for your story?
I don’t remember exactly the inspiration from it other than initially I wanted to write a story about a character who could not find their way home. I also remember sitting in a movie theater and seeing Federico Fellini’s I Vitelloni. I thought the movie was wonderful.
Did you plan the tone and direction of the novel before writing, or did it come out organically as you were writing?
I would say organically. At this point in time I am so busy that hardly any planning goes into anything anymore. I have my notes, but I rarely use them and much of the finished product is often the initial idea reworked over and over.
Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your character’s life?
Yes and No. I don’t think I know anyone who left a wedding early and got drunk with a buddy, usually that happens after the wedding is over. I do know that I am thirty and a lot of people around me are as well. I think when friend’s or acquaintances start having children, getting married, talking about their retirement, etc. it does make one reflect because nobody tells ya, ‘you are this age, this is this time…,’ so much as one person does it and the rest follow suit. I think that is kinda funny.
What story are you currently in the middle of writing?
I’m working on a story called Louis, which is about this happy go luck guy that likes to ride the subway train. I would really like to do something that involves animals. I work at Unity Farm Sanctuary in Sherborn, Massachusetts and among many of the animals there I love being with the pigs. I have some stuff on paper involving pigs, but it would hard to be Babe or Charlotte’s Web.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
Michael Tuberdyke is the author of several short story collections. His work has appeared in Europe as well as North American in literary magazines such as Rundelania, A Million Ways, and Flora Fiction. He lives in Belmont, Massachusetts with his partner and works at Unity Farm Sanctuary.
He’s Bound For Termination
Titanium Warrior follows a man and woman whose lives are intertwined by fate and their destiny that could destroy the world. What was the initial idea behind this story and how did that transform as you were writing the novel?
I’ve been a lover of Greek mythology all my life. The concept of the Titanian universe sprouted from the Greek Titans and what could happen to the world if Kronos’s magic was misused. The Titanian race, descendants of the Titans, was created to protect humans and creatures with god-like powers, but that ability carries a high price. Hagen the main character in Titanian Warrior appeared in an earlier book. At that point in the Chronicles, he was impulsive and too anxious to demonstrate his powers. He’s matured in Titanian Warrior. The weight of his rash actions weigh heavily on him and if he doesn’t atone and find his eternal mate, he’s bound for termination.
What was your process in writing the characters interactions to develop the bond they have?
I’m an instinctual writer. In the business that’s called being a pantser. I allow my muse to invite the characters in and speak their story. Faiza came to me naturally. Her loyalty to her family was an inspiration for Hagen and a source of frustration at times. Their bond is best explained in the pages of the book.
What were some of your inspirations as a writer?
Dame Dorothy Dunnett, J.R.R. Tolkien, Laura Esquivel, Jody Hill, and Isabel Allende, to name a few have been a source of inspiration. Whenever I hit the doldrums, I read a few passages from a favorite book and that sets the writing muse on fire.
What is the next book that you are working on and when can your fans expect it to be out?
My next book is a contemporary romance, with dark themes in the Central Florida Stories. The manuscript is with the editor and I hope to release it in May. Meanwhile, I’m working on another Central Florida Story. I’m planning on an end-of-the-year release.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Hagen drags himself to the gates of Hell, body and soul shredded by the bloodlust that consumes all the unmated of his kind. Awaiting the painful atonement that will buy him ten more years to find his eternal mate—or face oblivion. But Hades himself kicks him out with the bloodlust still prowling, unsatisfied, in his veins.
Bargained away by her parents to Master O, a mysterious and cruel wizard, Faiza serves in his household, keeping her small magic a secret, plagued by wild, confusing visions of a strange suffering male. Then her master brings home a wounded Titanian warrior whose touch sends ice, fire, and desire through her body.
When she learns Master O plans to use Hagen as a weapon to conquer all races, she devises a desperate plan to free him—a plan that opens a portal to a world she’s never known. And a destiny entwined with danger that could destroy them all.
Dogs Have Beautiful Souls
The Marvelous Misfits of Westminster follows a dog show judge who needs to connect two dogs with mystical abilities that can save lives. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I wondered what would happen if one would not breed dogs for looks but for their souls. Every dog owner knows: Dogs have beautiful souls and unique souls. Out of that idea grew The Marvelous Misfits… and what better place for them to first appear than in the World’s most famous dog show?
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Most important to me is the theme of the shadow. I’m fascinated so many of us are haunted by shadows – invisible to anyone but us, but real and dangerous nonetheless. Edith is inspired by my grandmother who took her life and whom I imagine being haunted by shadows. To me, the story has a very painful, personal layer.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this short story?
Actually, The Marvelous Misfits of Westminster is my debut, and I’m quite proud of it for various reasons. One reason is, that it was the first time I resolved to alter and tweak the story until it worked. It took me a lot of feedback from fellow writers and readers and even more revisions to get it to the final version. Now it is that mystical story that contains a deeper truth – and reflects exactly what I wanted to write. It’s just so satisfying getting a story to the page close to what you imagined it to be in your head.
What is the next story that you’re writing, and when will it be published?
Currently, I’m working on another Misfits story. This time, Harvey and Irving are saving a guitar player who has lost his hand and his will to live. The story is in its early stages, but I strive for publication in 2024. Nevertheless, a new book is being published this year: The Gift of Love. It’s a charming picture book for grown-ups about a couple of weird monsters who get a strange present at their wedding, and by caring for their present, learn what love really means. It features wonderful illustrations by the talented Ukrainian artist Anastasia Khmelevska and makes the perfect wedding gift.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Website
According to the Hunts, the only way to save Edith is making sure Irving, a hideous mongrel dog with special abilities, wins Best in Show.
Out of Wedlock
Out of Wedlock by Larry Lockridge masterfully weaves the intricate tale of Jess Freeman and his interactions with a diverse cast of characters over the span of two decades. This compelling narrative delves into the complex relationships among six individuals as they grapple with their pasts and strive for acceptance or liberation from their habits. Jess, a plastic surgeon, finds himself on an unintended voyage of self-discovery, attempting to reconcile the fragments of his childhood and comprehend the origins of his dissociative visions.
Lockridge expertly guides readers through a labyrinthine journey punctuated by moments of raw humor and unforeseen twists, all while inciting contemplation on life and the intricacies of human behavior. The plot is consistently captivating, as Out of Wedlock artfully balances the peculiar, the passionate, the enigmatic, and the emotional, all while maintaining an accessible and engaging tone. Readers will undoubtedly be enthralled by the novel’s unpredictable turns and thought-provoking scenarios.
Out of Wedlock not only raises profound questions about human identity and the interplay between nature and nurture, but it also serves as a cultural excursion. Set against the backdrops of Santa Fe and Greenwich Village, the novel is peppered with fascinating tidbits about the region’s culture, history, and notable figures. Although some references may prompt readers to pause for research, this educational aspect ultimately enriches the reading experience.
A particularly endearing feature of the novel is the inclusion of an illustration at the conclusion of each chapter. These artistic embellishments lend a nostalgic air to the narrative and enhance the overall storytelling. Out of Wedlock culminates in a satisfying denouement, resolving the individual arcs of each character and emphasizing the significance of authenticity amidst a world of reinvention.
Out of Wedlock comes highly recommended for readers who seek a narrative that is at once witty, startling, and provocative. Embrace the unexpected and prepare to be thoroughly entertained by this exceptional literary work.
Pages: 215 | ASIN: B0B6NTSHSW
Overcoming Our Fears And Challenges
Pedaling West follows a recently unemployed and single woman who decides to ride her bike across the country in the middle of a pandemic. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
For my previous two published books, I backdated the stories to avoid the issues associated with COVID-19-mandated protocol during the era. Finally, for Pedaling West, I decided to take the pandemic on. I hoped the book would resonate with readers because of the interesting characters and exciting story, but also because of our common challenges with COVID-19.
Carrie suffers several blows to her self-confidence and through this ride rediscovers her own inner strength. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
My goal was to create a character with whom many could identify, who had a full basket of recognizable qualities and familiar flaws. Metaphorically, Carrie represents each of us who uses our unique talents and skills to stumble forward positively, overcoming our fears and challenges, to create successful lives. Like Carrie, we usually find we don’t have to do everything ourselves. Others will help us if we take the initiative to ask.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The imperative for determination and resilience.
The critical nature of our human connection to each other and the common bonds we share.
The power, beauty, and majesty of nature versus the fragility of its environment.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
At my publisher’s urging, I plan to follow up Pedaling West, with another crime fiction novel featuring the partnership of agents Marina Butnari and Doug Hill. After the escapades of Pedaling West, they are back to addressing the most heinous criminal activity in our world: human trafficking. Crime unfortunately creates staggering wealth and power which makes the battle between good and evil much closer than it should be. The working title for the novel is “All In.”
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads | Website
Yet dangers lurk that she’d never anticipated. During Carrie’s idyllic journey across the continent, her greatest danger comes not from her encounters with angry animals, road hazards, or the elements. Something much worse stalks her—something much too human.
EVOLVED PUBLISHING PRESENTS a novel that’s part literary suspense, part women’s fiction, part crime thriller, part travel fiction, and one hundred percent fun. A young woman’s journey of adventure becomes one of profound self-discovery.
Emerged In My Mind
Justin’s Quest follows a young artist’s journey through the Australian Outback as he seeks to discover his destiny while exploring his cultural heritage. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I do not know myself what was the inspiration for the Trilogy. It just happened that several readers of “Under Surveillance” requested a sequel. I said that that story was completed, but I asked myself if it would be possible for me to write a parallel story, using the same time frame and a similar setting, which I was comfortable with. Then the idea of the station “Shangri-la” came to me one night. I saw the place and the family as the characters and the background of each just emerged in my mind. Then came the idea of starting the story with the arrival of Constable Peter with the horse he had mentioned he was intending to buy. From then on, I just watched what the characters said and did, and the story wrote itself.
I have since heard that Lee Child uses the same method when he writes his Reacher books. He just watches his character and writes down what happens. It was not until I had completed “Justin’s Quest”. and my neighbour begged to know what happened next, that I did a little thinking about how I could possibly tie up some of the loose ends which had been floating along in the sidelines. Yet even then, I had to wait until the next chapter came to me: I did not even plan anything until it happened.
What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
I was not conscious of any driving ideals when writing the story. But now, with the story complete, and looking back on my life from the vantage point of eighty-three years, I realize how important it is to not disregard the gifts with which we come to this world. Yet we also come with lessons to learn too. I did not attempt to become a professional artist until I turned fifty, although I could paint since childhood. See my website, http://www.winsart.com for my paintings. I knew very well the difficulties Justin faced in surviving as an artist. I have always been interested in the complexity of the old Aboriginal culture, and I am very aware how difficult it is to integrate some of the Aboriginal ways of viewing reality with our individualistic and competitive modern society.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Again, I was not conscious of the themes when writing the story. In retrospect, the problems of family violence and drug abuse do interest me. I am more interested in possible solutions than dwelling on the problems. I did not think of Justin as being in constant danger, after all, he walked the streets of Darwin even at night without experiencing a sense of danger. His capture in “Confluence” was almost an accident from his foolhardiness. I am interested in seeking solutions to post traumatic stress, and the underlying problem of Aboriginal self confidence after their lived experience of alienation and powerlessness in the period of white domination. And I am interested in Aboriginal methods of psychological healing, which are just beginning to be given a degree of credibility. Actually, I thought it was a positive book rather than an analysis of darkness and danger.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I do not know if another book will be “given to me”. Obviously, Justin and Djet’s future will present many challenges, but I am not really comfortable in the digital world and the city. and that is where their future will take them. There will be the problem of changing the Aboriginal attitude of loyalty to their “mob” or tribal affiliation, to a wider view of the place of indigenous people in the modern, multicultural Australian society. There will be the continuing problem of how an artist can survive. A possible “bad” character could be someone who profits from Aboriginal art without giving due recognition to its origins. For now, I must learn how to promote the books I have written, and the original paintings and prints I have yet to dispose of.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
Why be bothered by a heritage no one else in the family believes is of any importance.
Why?
What Is Life All About – Life Is About the Soul
In his thought-provoking book, What Is Life About? – Life Is About the Soul, author Alan Gill guides readers on a journey of self-discovery and purpose through his own experiences, insights, and personal encounters. Gill delves into various aspects of life, including religion, media, marriage, political history, and the nature of God. His straightforward writing style provides clarity and honesty, addressing challenging topics without sugarcoating the issues.
The book is divided into six parts, each focusing on critical aspects of life. Part one starts with discussions on living life differently, offering hope and positivity to readers. Gill’s emphasis on simple living and the importance of family, friends, and community resonates deeply. In addition, the inclusion of biblical verses throughout the text adds depth and context to the discussion.
From the first part to the sixth, Gill’s work is filled with information to inspire readers. One prominent subject in the book is exploring God’s existence, power, and relationship with humanity. Gill’s approach to discussing God is refreshing and accessible, enabling readers to feel a personal connection with the divine.
Gill’s diverse range of topics keeps readers engaged, with chapters that touch on related subjects but delve into a myriad of issues. One such captivating topic is death, which, although chilling, is both intriguing and important to discuss. By addressing both physical and spiritual death, Gill provides a well-rounded perspective on this often-avoided subject.
The simple yet profound text, historical stories, reference materials, and in-depth discussions make this a remarkable book. By engaging with Gill’s work, readers embark on a journey to seek the truth and find themselves. More than just an inspirational book, this transformative work encourages personal growth and improvement in all aspects of life.
Pages: 450 | ASIN : B0BVTBNCW5
Jerrimiah Stonecastle Author Interview
Flash of Light follows a mother and her two children who are racing to their bomb shelter in the Catskill mountains in the wake of a nuclear bomb strike. When you first sat down to write this story, did you know where you were going, or did the twists come as you were writing?
This is one of my books where I actually stayed close to the outline until the last chapter. I had intended for this to be a stand alone issue but the ending opened up the possibilities of two more books in this series. After the Flash is the second book. I know there will be a third but have no clue what it’ll be about. But I know from the notes on the second book there will have to be a third book.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
On the third chapter of this spiritual thriller. If I can stay focused I hope to have it done in time for an Easter release.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
A second air blast over New York knocks out all the car’s electronics except for The Beast, the mother’s armored, custom-made, Dodge Durango Hellcat.
Can they make it through the marauding gangs who have taken advantage of the cities abandoned by the cops to protect their own families? Will the prototype regenerative fuel cell she developed last until they reach the Catskill Mountains and safety?
Hang on for the high octane, action-packed, death race to safety from the Next Name in Horror.
LITERARY TITAN 