Book Review – Season of Sacrifice – Trist Pinkston

 

Book Review by Rebecca Camarena

 

Season of Sacrifice (a historical novel), by Tristi Pinkston

Published by Golden Wings Enterprises, 2008

ISBN: 978-0-9794340-1-3

  

 

Benjamin Perkins was a proud and determined young man who undertook a journey by ship to the United States to worship as he pleased and not be persecuted by others. He embarked on this journey with his family and his wife-to-be. When it could be considered enough to have finally settled in this great land of opportunity and free from religious persecution, Perkins was then called to lead a group of people or Saints, as they were called in the Mormon religion, across the state of Utah and colonize the area that would become known as Bluff. Making roads where nothing had been before, leading hundreds of Saints in faith and spirit on an exploration that was gruesome, difficult and could have ended in tragedy, Perkins always found the courage to continue.  However, it seemed that even this was not enough for one lifetime and he was still asked to do the hardest thing of all and that was to enter into a Polygamous marriage. With his choosing he decided on his wife’s sister to be his second wife.  Is there such a thing as living happily ever after with two wives who are sisters to make it even more difficult?

 

Author Tristi Pinkston has written a remarkable love story and brought to life the emotion and the spirit that these Saints carried within them. It is an amazing feat that drove these Saints onward and the hardships and sacrifices that were made daily to forge a new life for all the generations that were to follow. Tristi portrays spirit, love and respect that these two sisters shared and they were able to draw upon this to see them through the more difficult times. It is the same spirit, love and respect that strengthened the bonds of these two families in the happy times. I must admit I had a hard time reading about the Polygamous marriage, but Tristi has done an excellent job blending the story with sensitivity and respect and I found myself hoping the sisters would be able to work things out in the end.

 

 

 

 

35 Miles From Shore – author interviews – Emilio Corsetti

 

 

 

Paperback Writer is pleased to introduce Emilio Corsetti, author of 35 Miles From Shore. A gripping tale of life and death on board a DC-9 jet that ended in shark infested waters.

 

 

35 Miles From Shore Synopsis:

 

On May 2, 1970, a DC-9 jet with fifty-seven passengers and a crew of six departed New York’s JFK international airport en route to the tropical island of St. Maarten. The flight ended four hours and thirty-four minutes later in the shark-infested waters of the Caribbean. It was at the time, and remains, the only open-water ditching of a commercial jet. The subsequent rescue of survivors took nearly three hours and involved the Coast Guard, Navy, and Marines. In this gripping account of that fateful day, author Emilio Corsetti puts the reader inside the cabin, the cockpit, and the rescue helicopters as the crews struggle against the weather and dwindling daylight to rescue the survivors who have only their life vests and a lone escape chute to keep them afloat.

 

 

Hi Emilio.

 

Welcome to Paperback Writer.

 

Would you share with us how you came up with the idea for your book? 

 

I first learned of the story as a new hire pilot with TWA. The accident was covered as part of the emergency training that all airline crews receive. I was amazed to learn that no book had been written about the accident. It’s rare to find untold stories, especially ones with this much drama. The further I dug the more fascinating the story became.

 

Was it a light bulb moment or something that you thought about for a very long time?

 

Anyone who has written a book can tell you that it requires a great deal of time and effort. It’s not something you jump into without giving it a lot of thought. But once I started the research for the book it was impossible to walk away.

 

How did you come up with the title?

 

The working title I used during the first year or so was Flight 980. No subtitle. I liked it but it didn’t really say much about the book’s content. I then changed the title to Heaven and Sea: A True Story. I liked it but I was a minority. I changed the subtitle to The Rescue of ALM Flight 980. When I submitted the book for consideration into the small press program at IPG, it was accepted under the condition that I change the cover and title. Once I started communicating with IPG there were about a half dozen people offering title suggestions. One that I remember was In Case of a Water Landing. I rejected that title because it had a humorous slant which was not indicative of the book. I was the one who came up with 35 Miles From Shore: The Ditching and Rescue of ALM Flight 980. The title is a winner for a number of reasons: you get a sense of the book’s content just from the title, the title has several keywords that could come up in an internet search (ditching, ALM, flight 980, rescue), the title also makes for an easily remembered domain name www.35milesfromshore.com.

 

How did you find an agent and publisher?

 

I had two agents represent the book at different stages in the development process. Nonfiction books such as this are most always sold on the basis of a proposal. But the chances of an unknown/unproven writer being successful with just a proposal, is zero to none. I did, however, attract the attention of a New York agent. He suggested that I write the first 75 pages and then he would submit both the proposal and those first 75 pages. So I did just that. Problem was that it was too early in the process. I hadn’t fully developed the story. I hadn’t interviewed enough people. The end result was a weak first 75 pages. The proposal was quickly shot down by every major publisher and I was dropped by the agent, whom I never spoke to or communicated with directly during the entire six months or so that he represented me.

 

I still felt that I had a good story. So I decided to finish the book and try my luck with a finished manuscript. I submitted the proposal to a few publishers and received an offer from a European publisher. But I felt that they were asking for too much and offering too little. They basically wanted me to give them all of the rights to the book – hard cover, soft cover, world, foreign translation, electronic media – all for 1,500 pounds, which was worth about $2,800 at the time. They were unwilling to negotiate, so I turned down the offer.

 

Shortly after this I found another agent. Within two weeks he had an editor at a major publisher interested in the manuscript. Four months later the book was turned down by the editorial board. No reason was given. The agent dropped me. I wasted another two years submitting the manuscript to over a dozen publishers. During this time I wrote a screenplay adaptation of the book. I signed with the very first agency that I sent the screenplay to. Around that time the book was accepted into the small press program at IPG. I decided that the only way the book would get published was if I did it myself. I have not regretted that decision.

 

Who reads your work in progress?

 

I used several readers. Some who knew me and some who didn’t. It’s part of the process and should not be overlooked.

 

Who made a difference in the book’s quality?

 

The quality of this book is due to the expert work of the people at 1106 Design. I’m sure their work played a large role in the book being accepted by IPG.

 

How long did it take you to complete the first draft?

 

I spent a year-and-a-half researching the book and another year-and-a-half writing. I spent an additional year or so rewriting.

 

How long did it take from start to publication?

 

It was seven years from start to publication. At least three years of that time was wasted searching for a publisher.

 

Do you have any advice for new authors?

 

If you believe in your work, don’t give up on it because of rejection by agents and major publishers. There are other options. But do take the time to reflect on the work itself. Don’t go forward with something that is subpar. I have a novel that I spent five years writing. But even though I have a publishing company and could publish the book myself, it’s not good enough and no amount of rewriting can make it publishable in my mind.

 

Thank you, Emilio for stopping by Paperback Writer on your virtual book tour. I wish you continued success through the rest of your tour.

 

 

 

35 MILES FROM SHORE VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR ‘08 officially began on May 1, 2008 and will continue all month. If you would like to follow Emilio’s tour in progress, visit http://www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ in May. Leave a comment on his blog stops and become eligible to win a free copy at the end of his tour! One lucky winner will be announced on his tour page at the end of May.

Letter of Love From China – author spotlight – Bonnie B. Cuzzolino

Letter of Love from China Synopsis:

 

The story is based on a Chinese birth mom in China who writes her daughter a letter explaining her love for her. She explains her reasons for daughter’s relinquishment which are due to poverty and the rule to keep families in China small due to overcrowding. Birth mom describes the beauty of scenic China and the Holidays of Chinese Moon Festival and Chinese New Year in the hopes her daughter will forever have a connection to her birth land of China. She prays for, meaning hoping for but not certain of, her daughter’s adoption by a loving family from a foreign land.  Mom ends by using the moon as a mirror to envision each other’s faces in times of thinking of one another. She promises that birth family will always remember her.

 

Award winning author Bonnie Cuzzolino and her family live in New Jersey. Bonnie and her husband Ray are the parents to a beautiful daughter adopted from Hubei, China in November of 2001 at 12 months old. She and her husband are now waiting for a referral for their second daughter from China through Holt International Children’s Services. Bonnie has had a lifelong passion to write children’s books. This book is her first and is dedicated to her daughter, Jillian Mei. You can visit her website at http://www.plumblossombooks.com/.

 

 

 

LETTER OF LOVE VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR ‘08  officially began on May 1, 2008 and will continue all month. If you would like to follow Bonnie’s tour in progress, visit http://www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ in May. Leave a comment on her blog stops and become eligible to win a free copy at the end of her tour! One lucky winner will be announced on this tour page on May 30!

 

The Winds of Asharra-author interview-R. Leigh

Paperback Writer is pleased to introduce a guest who is a mystery to local neighbors, appearing enigmatic and ageless, and wearing an ever present red crystal pendant. Some have guessed this author’s secret other worldly origin, speculating that the tales of Asharra might somehow be true. R. Leigh is the author The Winds of Asharra a fantasy romance novel.

 

 

The Winds of Asharra Synopsis:

Fantasy and Adventure under a Purple Sky! After Victor and Zoe, two 18 year old American college students, suddenly find themselves transported to Asharra, a surreal and highly sensual world, they must grapple with their inner visions of who they are and where they really belong. When Ionera, a troubled Asharran girl with a mystical secret enters Victor’s life, his priorities turn upside down and new challenges present themselves. In a land where evolved felines, intelligent telepathic trees, musical dragons and hidden wisdom flourishes, Victor, Zoe and Ionera seek answers to riddles as old as the stars. Will their discoveries guide them or will they be carried along by the Winds of Asharra? Join them on a journey of self discovery in a world where adventure, love, sex and home all have new meanings.

The Winds of Asharra is a blend of imaginative fantasy, high adventure and sizzling sensual romance, set in the mythic land of our half-forgotten dreams. Filled with a group of richly diverse characters and speaking to everyone’s hidden longings, the story will quicken your pulse and carry you to a world of new possibilities.

 

 

 

 

Hi R. Leigh,

 

Welcome to Paperback Writer

 

Will you share with us how you came up with the idea for this book?  

 

The complete answer to that question might be even be longer than the 600 pages of story in the Winds of Asharra. Attempting to massively condense it is not easy! In general though, you could say that the positive outlook, the mystical Asharran philosophy and the overall sense of wonder and adventure grew out of a sense of inner hope for a better, more natural world.

 

The creation of Asharran culture, so rich and complete including language, rituals and worldview, enabled me to create my place that indeed has “a better way.”  This mystical world of the purple sky, under twin suns, is the backdrop for an exploration of what it means to change one’s way of looking at oneself and the universe.

 

I spent many years studying a variety of diverse cultures ,religions and societies. Frequently, I would rejoice over the discovery of some little “nugget” of wisdom or example that people could really be in harmony with their world and be happy. However, the more tidbits I amassed, the more I felt ultimately unsatisfied, since the result was a crazy patchwork that didn’t quite fit together.

 

Asharra changed all that. This strange and sensual alien world, seen through the eyes of two American teenagers suddenly transported there, was my backdrop. The term “Asharra” to the native Asharrans means “the home around us” and applies to their planet and every living thing on it. They believe you don’t even have to be born there to be Asharran, so long as you are natural and “true” (in their terms). Thus, when one native Asharran tells the two main characters (from Earth), “welcome home”, it is because Asharra is simply the home they have never seen yet.

 

 

Do you plan your stories first with an outline or does it come to you as write it? 

 

It would have been almost un-Asharran to methodically plan out every little detail for this book. The overall plot points and the underlying philosophy expressed in the Winds of Asharra were fully formed before the first words left the keyboard and appeared on the screen. We knew which elements would be especially appealing to fantasy fans, romance novel afficienados and lovers of adventure. Simultaneously though, there was a different, almost serendipitous process occurring. Even with so many elements combined defined , a very enjoyable part of the creative process was interacting with the individual pieces and almost allowing them to come together according to their “own” design. For us, the surreal world of the purple sky had enough “magnetism” to naturally attract the necessary plot and character elements to each other in ways that even surprised the author.

 

 

Do you know the end of the story at the beginning?

 

Similar to what one of the characters says to Victor and Zoe, in the Winds of Asharra, the destination is only a goal, and as such, is only as important as the journey itself. Sure, we knew the overall ending of the Winds of Asharra and many of the key “oh my!” moments at the onset. The joy was discovering the scenery along the way and savoring it during the writing process as we progressed along.

 

 

Do you have a process for developing your characters?

 

Actually, it’s quite the reverse. The characters in this series define themselves. As an author, it’s sheer entertainment to craft the barest minimum and watch the remaining pieces allign themselves almost naturally (To the Asharrans, the mystery of the creative process is that more people don’t take advantage of it). Using the Asharran metaphor, we let our “lesser” mind create the basic outline, but it is our “greater” mind which magically fills in all of the details.

 

 

It is said that authors write themselves into their characters. Is there any part of you in your characters and what they would be?

 

There is something in all of the characters in The Winds of Asharra in which we can identify. That is truly saying something since several of the characters are not even human! Still, the characters are a kaleidescope of emotions, attitudes, and possibilities that are simultaneously unusual and familiar, something we think will strike a chord in the readers as well.

 

What is your most favorite part about this book?

 

 Now that is a pause-inducing question (similar to asking a parent which of their children is their favorite).

 

There are so many from which we could select. If we were really forced to narrow down the choices to three, these would be the finalists. First, the overall story of self discovery for Victor and Zoe, regardless of the adventurous details, would have to be listed. Seeing them grow and change (in one case quite literally) was a joy. Second, we’d have to add, the “emotional” highpoints of several key plot elements (we can’t list them since they would spoil things for potential readers) to this list. There are several moments where events happen that we defy readers not to cheer. Lastly, we would say that the overall exploration of Asharran culture and philosophy which is sprinkled throughout the book is a favorite part in itself. The Ways of Asharra are as significant as the characters in the book, since they influence them and coax them to be better people.

 

 

When in the process of writing your book did you begin to look for a publisher?

 

 Since the writing of this book was a true labor of love, we did not concentrate on the commercial aspects until after the novel was completed. We truly allowed ourselves to be “carried along by the Winds” throughout the entire writing process.

 

 

What struggles have you had on the road to being published?

 

It took a lot of resolve to determine not to attempt to attempt to force fit the Winds of Asharra into any particular genre conventions. The story is unique on several levels and unashamedly so. Since it straddles several genre’s, it was something that several publishers and reviewers initially had a difficult time classifying.

 

 

What has been the best part about being published?

 

I’d say it is the opportunity to simultaneously share an entertaining story and an engaging philosophy with folks from all over the world. The many emails we’ve received are a joy read and answer.

 

 

What do you want readers to remember and carry with them after reading your novel?

 

That is a wonderful (and different) question! Thanks for asking. First, we’d like them to remember the sense of optimism and wonder so central to the Winds of Asharra. Better than addressing their Inner Child, we think that WOA tantalizes their Inner Adult, a creature who too often can become disillusioned with the world. Second, we’d like them to  remember the tenets of Asharran philosophy in general. This unique perspective on reality is one that my spouse and I share and we have found it to be very useful in today’s world. Lastly, if they had to recall one single thing, it would be the Asharran philosophical tidbit, that “the only way to fail is to give up.” By that defintion, we’ve already succeeded.

 

Do you have plans to write another book?

 

It’s virtually certain based on reader comments that our next endeavor will be a sequel to The Winds of Asharra. The plotline certainly leads directly into it and we know that the readership is very interested in following the next set of exploits for Victor, Ionera, Zoe on the world of the purple sky.

 

Would you care to share with us how the virtual book tour experience with Pump Up Your Book Promotion has been for you?

 

We think that Virtual Tours are the wave of the future for authors and folks like those at Pump Up Your Book Promotion, and several others as well, are virtual pioneers, blazing the trail for those who follow.  If the pace seemed hectic or the process a little less organized than we would have expected, it’s only because the tour operators themselves are exploring uncharted territory. We’re all learning together how best to utilize this brand new tool to spread the word about interesting books. That in itself, is exciting.

 

Where can readers find a copy of your book?

 

There are a variety of online retailers where readers can find a copy of the Winds of Asharra including Amazon.com, B&N.com, Target.com and others. We have a list of retailers online at our website, www.thewindsofasharra.com as well as several other Asharran style tidbits that potential readers might enjoy.

 

 

Thank you, R. Leigh, for sharing your book and characters with us today. It has been a pleasure and I hope you have had a successful virtual book tour.

 

THE WINDS OF ASHARRA VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR ‘08 officially began on May 1, 2008 and will continue through the end of  month. If you would like to follow R. Leigh’s tour in progress, visit http://www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ in May. Leave a comment on her blog stops and become eligible to win a free copy at the end of her tour! One lucky winner will be announced on this tour page on May 30!

 

 

Janeology-author interview-Karen Harrington

 

 

Paperback Writer welcomes today an author Karen Harrington as she continues on her virtual book tour with Pump Up Your Book Promotion. Her novel, Janeology is in the genre suspenseful, mainstream, women’s fiction. Join us for her interview to see how she came up with the idea for the novel.

 

Janeology summary:

Tom Nelson is struggling after the death of his son at the hands of his wife Jane. While Jane sits in a Texas mental hospital for her part in the crime, prosecutors turn their focus to Tom. They believe Tom should have known Jane was on the cusp of a breakdown and protected his children from her illness. As a result, he is charged with “failure to protect.” Enter attorney, Dave Frontella, who employs a radical defense strategy – one that lays the blame at the feet of Jane’s nature and nurture. To gather evidence about Jane’s forbears, Frontella hires a woman with the power of retrocognition – the ability to use a person’s belongings to re-create their past. An unforgettable journey through the troubled minds and souls of Jane’s ancestors, spanning decades and continents, this debut novel deftly illustrates the ways nature and nurture weave the fabric of one woman’s life, and renders a portrait of one man left in its tragic wake.

 

 

 

Hi Karen,

 

Welcome to Paperback Writer

 

 

Will you share with us how you came up with the idea for this book? 

 

Two things, actually. First, I have a passion for genealogy, mostly because I never knew any of my grandparents. I had their pictures and many of their belongings. I looked at these objects and thought, “What if these pictures could talk? What if this necklace could tell me something about my grandmother?” So I wanted to write about a character from the perspective of her genealogy.

 

Second, as a new mother, I felt a deep bond to my children. So when I read the grim headlines about mothers who killed their children, I had to ask “What would make a woman take the life of her own child?” I knew that would be the central question of my novel.

 

Do you plan your stories first with an outline or does it come to you as write it?

 

I wrote screenplays for many years before trying my hand at a novel. I tend to work out a screenplay outline for my stories to jumpstart the conflict and begin the brainstorming process. Sometimes I stick to the outline and sometimes I don’t. It’s a great starting point.

 

Do you know the end of the story at the beginning?

 

No, that hasn’t been my experience, which I must say, I like. I like to be surprised.

 

Do you have a process for developing your characters?

 

It’s not so much a process. It’s more like me being a therapist and they being my patient and I keep pulling information out of them by asking why would you do that? What were you thinking? What happened to you in the hour before you made that choice? Would you do that again?

 

It is said that authors write themselves into their characters. Is there any part of you in your characters and what they would be?

 

Let’s say there’s a scene in which a character is being dumped by her boyfriend at a train station. She leaves the train station and goes to a bar. Then what? I think a writer usually brings her own set of questions and experiences to the page at first and asks, How did I feel when I got dumped? How would I feel in that situation? Would I go to a bar? Would I scream at the boyfriend or would I walk away? I think these questions are the initial research a writer puts into a character. Sometimes they might follow the writers’ own sensitivities. Sometimes the character reacts opposite of how the writer would in real life. For me, I love to observe people and make note of how they contradict themselves over and over again. If there’s anything from myself in my characters, it’s that ability to contradict myself and not have a rational reason for doing so. I’ve never met a person who hasn’t acted this way, but I still want to know why we do it. And the great thing about being a writer is trying to unearth answers to this question.

 

What is your favorite part about this book?

 

The chapter that shows Jane at age nine is probably one of my favorite pieces. It shows the tender age at which her innocence was getting chipped away. There’s a seminal event in this chapter. Her life could have gone either way right then. Left or right, and despite her crimes later in life, this chapter endears me to her.

 

When in the process of writing your book did you begin to look for a publisher?

 

I didn’t seek publication until I felt satisfied that I’d taken the story as far as I could. I had that “aha” moment several times that I had something special within this story and I hoped it would resonate with someone else.

 

What struggles have you had on the road to being published?

 

Like most writers, it’s a matter of perseverance. I sent out countless queries to agents and publishers and received as many “no’s.” But it only takes one yes. That’s what I kept telling myself.

 

What has been the best part about being published?

 

The whole process has proved wonderful. It’s a bit like finding out your pregnant and then having to wait almost a year with breathless anticipation for the end result. And now that the book is actually here, I’m still awe-struck that the ideas and thoughts once private to me are now out there in the world. It’s like finishing a race. There’s knowing you can cross the finish line. And there’s the feeling of the finish line ribbon breaking as you cross. That’s what it feels like.

 

What do you want readers to remember and carry with them after reading your novel?

 

You’ve heard the story that just calling someone to invite them for a cup of coffee saved them from something horrible. That’s one of the seminal truths I found from researching overwhelmed mothers who were in decline mentally and emotionally. So I think I’d like people to remember to be more compassionate and observant towards those they love. Small gestures make a difference. Noticing signs about someone’s well being makes a difference.

 

Do you have plans to write another book?

 

Yes, I’m working on it now. It’s a modern take on the prodigal son story from the Bible.

 

Would you care to share with us how the virtual book tour experience with Pump Up Your Book Promotion has been for you?

 

This has been an invaluable experience for me! The best part about this tour was knowing I had a partner in promotion. It’s a big, big world out there and writers need as many resources as possible.

 

Where can readers find a copy of your book?

 

It’s available on Amazon, Barnes&Noble.com and in most major retailers.

 

Do you have a website for readers to go to?

Yes, it’s www.karenharringtonbooks.com

 

Thank you, Karen, for sharing your book and characters with us today. It has been a pleasure and I hope you have had a successful virtual book tour.

 

 

JANEOLOGY VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR ‘08 will officially begin on May 1, 2008 and continue all month. If you would like to follow Karen’s tour in progress, visit http://www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ in May. Leave a comment on her blog stops and become eligible to win a free copy at the end of her tour! One lucky winner will be announced on this tour page on May 30!

Emotionless Souls – author interview – David Grant

 

 

David Grant is our guest author today at Paperback Writer, and he shares with us his journey to being published.

 

Emotionless Souls Synopsis:

Disaffected tourists idle through the streets and bars of Paris and Dublin. Office workers suspect each other of stealing cocaine at the Christmas party. Human Resource officers interview the stripper they frequent for a position in the firm (or at least they think it’s that stripper). Pickpockets get pick-pocketed. Nobodies stage emergencies to save the day. Mediocre porn stars murder their co-stars to increase DVD rentals. Executives drop Ecstasy during the board meeting and realize their affection for the touch of their supervisor’s shirt. Comics drop shrooms in the restaurant’s sauce to get laughs from even the toughest of Monday night crowds.

  

 Hi David,

 

Welcome to Paperback Writer

 

 

Will you share with us how you came up with the idea for this book?  

 

[DG] Emotionless Souls, my short story collection, contains 20 tales varying from corporate pranks to dreams of leaving a mark in the adult movie industry.  I started writing short stories as a way to break from writing novels.  Eventually there was enough interest in many that I was able to package them into this book.  My ideas usually come from my surroundings, I spend a lot of time in corporate environments and this translates into a back drop for many of my stories.  Others, come from that special dark place inside that really makes to me is true fiction.

  

Do you plan your stories first with an outline or does it come to you as write it?

 

[DG] I will outline at a high level.  It’s strange, but I need an ending before I begin.  More strange is that I rarely use the initial ending, but do keep it as a crutch.

 

Do you have a process for developing your characters?

 

[DG] For my characters they take on their role as the story dictates.  Starting stories, I rarely have an idea of a character, rather a story, and then I think about what type of person fits.

 

It is said that authors write themselves into their characters. Is there any part of you in your characters and what they would be?

 

[DG] Absolutely.  The satirical and humorous parts of the stories are directly related to my personality and how I view the world.

 

What is your most favorite part about this book?

 

[DG] The way all of the stories relate to one another.  This was never the point, in fact all were written separate without the thought of pulling them together.  Each story takes a character in a dark place and watches them find redemption (at least in their mind) in the most unconventional ways.

 

When in the process of writing your book did you begin to look for a publisher?

 

[DG] All of the stories were completed prior to publishing with Brown Paper Publishing.

 

What struggles have you had on the road to being published?

 

[DG]  It was difficult to get someone to read my first novel, Corporate Porn.  Whether you go through agents or publishers, you find a saturated market.  However, that being said, I am an example of keep writing and be persistent, it will happen.

 

What do you want readers to remember and carry with them after reading your novel?

 

[DG] First off, Emotionless Souls is meant to be entertaining.  Yes, there is a transgression side to my writing, but I do believe my humor puts a unique twist on the darkest of issues.

 

Do you have plans to write another book?

 

[DG] Bleach|Blackout, my rock and drug fueled double novel is now available through Offense Mechanism, an imprint of Silverthought Press.  Bleach details the character, Jeremy returning home to the Midwest for the holidays, reliving past New Year’s Eve parties, leading up to the mother of all parties.  Blackout, the sequel takes the reader two years after Bleach.  The crew is in Las Vegas for an incredible bachelor party and wake up with the worst possible hangover: A police officer standing over them with guns drawn.

 

Would you care to share with us how the virtual book tour experience with Pump Up Your Book Promotion has been for you?

 

[DG] So far I have been very impressed.  Pump Up Your Books has been able to find the correct places for my work to be reviewed and displayed.  I have been pleased with the results.

 

Where can readers find a copy of your book?

 

[DG] brownpaperpublishing.net, davidsgrant.com, amazon.com, and the other usual suspects.  My books are also available at the following NYC bookstores: Book Court (Brooklyn), St Mark’s Bookstore (Manhattan), and Drougas Books (Manhattan).

 

Do you have a website for readers to go to?

http://www.davidsgrant.com

 

 

Thank you, David for sharing your book and characters with us today. It has been a pleasure and I hope you have had a successful virtual book tour.

 

EMOTIONLESS SOULS VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR ‘08 will officially begin on May 1, 2008 and continue all month. If you would like to follow David’s tour in progress, visit http://www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ in May. Leave a comment on his blog stops and become eligible to win a free copy at the end of his tour! One lucky winner will be announced on this tour page on May 30!

    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why We Left Islam -author interview-Joel Richardson

 

 

 

 

 

 

Paperback Writer welcomes Joel Richardson as he continues on his virtual book tour with Pump Up Your Book Promotion. Joel is the co-author of the non-fiction book, Why We Left Islam. Susan Crimp, his co-author is a respected journalist and author specializing in Middle East affairs and Joel Richardson is an expert in Jewish and Islamic theology. 

 

 

 

Why We Left Islam Synopsis:

The penalty for renouncing Islam is death, which makes the stories in Why We Left Islam — and the lives behind them — all the more remarkable.

Contained in these brutally honest personal accounts written by former Muslims is an urgent truth that the mainstream media and cowed politicians won’t admit — that far from being “a religion of peace,” Islam is instead barbaric and repressive, a nightmare for those living under it and those seeking to confront it.

Here are some of the voices from Why We Left Islam…

“I still remember my sister’s black eyes; she stared at the sky while she was dug into the ground. She was wrapped in white sheets and her hands were tied to her body. She was buried up to her waist. The rabid mob circled her with stones in their hands and started throwing them at her while the roars of ‘Allah-u-Akbar’ added to their frenzy…” — Yagmur

“As a Muslim man, the fact that my mother had only given birth to three girls made him really angry. He beat my mother very badly and the doctors were forced to remove her womb…When she awoke, my father was kind enough to tell her that he was divorcing her now that she could no longer have children, and being a man he needed a son.” — Shara

“The Koran is full of verses that teach the killing of unbelievers and how Allah would torture them after they die. There are no lessons on morality, justice, honesty or love…” — Ali

These shocking, real-life stories from those who have escaped the Muslim yoke make Why We Left Islam: Former Muslims Speak Out a powerful communique — and a warning — to the West.

 

 

 

 

Hi Joel Richardson

 

Welcome to Paperback Writer.

 

Would you share with us how you came up with the idea for your book? 

 

Actually the idea originated with my co-editor, Susan Crimp.  She and I were working on another project and she proposed the idea to me.  I believe that the idea was that she as a journalist and I as an expert on Islam would a perfect team to create such a project.

 

Was it a light bulb moment or something that you thought about for a very long time?

 

Light bulb.

 

How did you come up with the title?

 

I believe that the title was also Susan’s idea.  Initially the full title was going to be Why We Left Islam: Letters to America.  But then we decided that this was too limiting, as this is a global issue.

 

How did you find an agent and publisher?

 

Because Susan is a well-published author and a well known New York journalist, she had some friends in NYC.  We used the Mimi Strong Literary Agency.  And they ended up landing World Net Daily publishing (formerly World Ahead Publishing.   It seems to be a perfect fit.

 

Who reads your work in progress?

 

Susan and I each read it and did many exchanges back and forth.

 

Who made a difference in the book’s quality?

 

Synergy is always effective – assuming of course that the two working together are open to each others ideas etc. 

 

How long did it take you to complete the first draft?

 

About two months.

 

How long did it take from start to publication?

 

About seven months.

 

Do you have any advice for new authors?

 

Only write about what you are passionate about.  Don’t do something simply because you think it will sell. 

 

Thank you, Joel for stopping by Paperback Writer on your virtual book tour. I wish you continued success through the rest of you tour.

 

Thank You!

 

 

WHY WE LEFT ISLAM VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR ‘08 will officially begin on May 1, 2008 and will continue all month. If you would like to follow Susan and Joel’s tour in progress, visit http://www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ in May. Leave a comment on their blog stops and become eligible to win a free copy at the end of her tour! One lucky winner will be announced on this tour page on May 31!

Embittered Justice – author interview – Michaela Riley

 

Paperback Writer is pleased to announce Michaela Riley, author of the fiction novel Embittered Justice as she continues on her virtual book tour with Pump Up Your Book Promotion.

 

 

 

Embittered Justice Synopsis:

 

What if everything in your life was changed because you opened a mysterious package?Jennifer Campbell is a beautiful, talented woman with ambition and drive to succeed in corporate America. Moving to Virginia into the tightly knit community of Norfolk was a dream come true. A house on the beach, famly and security for the first time in many years providing the comfort and serenity Jennifer had searched for.

All is well, until the fateful day Jennifer received a telephone call. “Jennifer, go someplace and hide; don’t trust anyone. You can’t trust the police or internal affairs. Just go somewhere you can’t be found. I’ll call you in a few hours.”

 

 

 Hi Michaela Riley

 

Welcome to Paperback Writer

 

 Will you share with us how you came up with the idea for this book?

Inspiration for Embittered Justice started when I had the misfortune of visiting a local court room. I was completing some courses in college at the time and decided to write about the experience. Research of malicious prosecution and The Innocence Project sparked even more interest on the subject and Embittered Justice was born.

  

Do you plan your stories first with an outline or does it come to you as write it?

 

This process of writing started out with notes and an outline. Some things come to me as I am writing and I add them as ideas to incorporate into the book when I do a revision. I try to stick with the outline with the first draft of the book and then add in other elements of the story later. It helps me stick with a timeline and character development.

 

Do you know the end of the story at the beginning?

 

When I write the first draft I have an idea bout the ending but it really depends on the story I am telling. Like real life; every story does not have a happy ending.  

 

Do you have a process for developing your characters?

 

Character development starts with real life experiences I have had with individuals. If the character is gentle and kind I remember a person in my life that had the same qualities. I do this process with all the characters; it helps me attach a feeling to the character in the book.

 

It is said that authors write themselves into their characters. Is there any part of you in your characters and what they would be?

 

Yes, Jennifer Campbell in Embittered Justice has many of my qualities, strong, driven and very intense at times. She also has a vulnerable side that I rarely share with others. It can be very emotional to write about a character that is so similar. It’s like revealing a side of yourself you normally wouldn’t share.

 

What is your most favorite part about this book?

 

The best part of the book is when Jennifer spends time at Ft. Bragg with Michael. They have an incredible bond and love between them. Jennifer gets a personal view of life at 82^nd Airborne and the sacrifices soldiers make for their country.

 

When in the process of writing your book did you begin to look for a publisher?

 

I started looking for a Publisher after the revisions of the first draft. The book was accepted by several publishers and I ultimately chose the first contract that arrived. Now they have the rights to my book for seven years.

 

What struggles have you had on the road to being published?

 

Editing has been the most difficult part of the process. I assumed it was completed by the Publisher, but it wasn’t. The first print needed a lot of work. One review discussed some of those errors and asked about them. I am happy to say after a few tries, the editing is completed.

 

Marketing of the book has been another hurdle. Being a new author does have some challenges but I am working through the process. I think virtual book tours are a great way to get the buzz started about a new book.

 

What has been the best part about being published?

 

I can actually say “I am a published author.” I get to share a story I am passionate about and begin my career as a writer.

 

What do you want readers to remember and carry with them after reading your novel?

Fear can persuade you to make decisions that will have an impact on your life in ways you can’t imagine. Stop and trust God through the Process.

 

Do you have plans to write another book?

 

Yes the sequel to Embittered Justice will be finished in the fall of 2008. I also have plans for several other books in the future.

 

Would you care to share with us how the virtual book tour experience with Pump Up Your Book Promotion has been for you?

 

Dorothy is an incredible woman! The virtual book tour experience has been great so far. I discussed virtual book tours with several companies before choosing Pump Up Your Book Promotion and this is a very economical way to create interest about my book.

 

Where can readers find a copy of your book?

 

 Readers can go to my web site for a personal autographed copy of Embittered Justice and may choose to purchase from traditional book stores. The links are on my website.

 

Do you have a website for readers to go to?

 

Yes visit http://www.michaelariley.com.

 

Thank you, Michaela Riley for sharing your book and characters with us today. It has been a pleasure and I hope you have had a successful virtual book tour.

 

EMBITTERED JUSTICE VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR ‘08 will officially begin on May 1, 2008 and continue all month. If you would like to follow Michaela’s tour in progress, visit http://www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ in May. Leave a comment on her blog stops and become eligible to win a free copy at the end of her tour! One lucky winner will be announced on this tour page on May 30!

West Across the Board – author interview – Andrew Jalbert

Paperback Writer is pleased to introduce the author for today, Andrew Jalbert, author of the historical fiction novel, West Across the Board. Award winning freelancer Andrew Jalbert has been a professional archaeologist and scuba instructor for over 15 years. During that time, he has worked throughout the Great Lakes, the Caribbean, Central America, Southern Africa, the Florida Keys, and Hawaii. His work focuses on tropical subjects–both above and below the water–and he is a regular contributor to scuba diving, natural history, fitness, and travel magazines. Andrew currently lives in Madison, Wisconsin.

 

West Across the Board synopsis:

 What are the elements of friendship that last a lifetime-the mysterious connection that can outlast great distances and more than half a century of separation to bring friends back together? 

 

For Lázaro, a salty Cuban mariner and Dominic, a brilliant Chicago engineer, the answers can be found in the game of chess. From the time of their meeting and first chess match on Key West in the 1930s, each man’s win is scratched into the back of the board. As the game tally grows, so does their friendship. Now, both men are in their twilight years, but it’s Dominic’s life, weathered by cancer, which is reaching its conclusion. Lázaro, who fled from his island home and his friend years ago, learns that Dominic is rapidly dying and sets off on the long journey from Boston to Florida to see his old friend. Prior to leaving, Lázaro retrieves the old chessboard and makes a startling discovery. The number of scratches, first marked over sixty years before and uncounted until

now, has the two men evenly tied. As he drives towards Dominic and the keys, Lázaro is forced to confront a past he has struggled to forget while anticipating the reunion with his old friend and what could be their final game. 

 

 

 

 

 

 Hi Andrew,

 

Welcome to Paperback Writer

  

Will you share with us how you came up with the idea for this book? 

 

First of all, I wanted to thank you and your readers for having me here. I’ve always been a bit smitten by the tropics. As far back as I can remember I wanted to write and be near the ocean. I should expand on that a bit: I wanted to be near, in, or beneath the ocean’s surface. By the time I was in my early thirties, I had a decade of working on dive boats, jumping around the Caribbean and writing for scuba and travel magazines under my belt. Those years were priceless, not only in terms of the environments and cultures I was lucky enough to experience, but for the opportunity to write about them. My writing teeth were cut on sailboats, beaches, and port town taverns and for that I consider myself fortunate.

 It goes without saying that when I decided to cross over into publishing fiction, the stories would take place someplace tropical. West Across the Board is set in one of my favorite locations: The Florida Keys. I fell in love with the island chain years ago, not only for its stunning scenery, collage of cultures, and pristine waters, but for its fascinating history. Closer to Cuba than the U.S. mainland, Key West was more accessible by boat than car until the mid 1930s. It was during the 1930s that I chose to set my novel. This gave me a great opportunity to research an era in the southern keys that I’ve always been interested in and an excuse to spend more time on Key West.

 West Across the Board begins in 1999 with 86 year old Lázaro driving from Boston to the Florida Keys to see his dying friend Dominic before time runs out. As he drives, he remembers not only his younger years in Key West, but his reasons for fleeing his island home and his friend over half a century before. Lázaro, a gifted Cuban mariner and fisherman in his youth first met Dominic at Sloppy Joe’s Saloon in 1934. The two young men bond instantly over a game of chess played in the smoky tavern. The games continue and after every one, each man’s win is scratched into the back of the board. As the game tally grows, so does their friendship. The games are a constant during an era that saw devastating hurricanes, shipwrecks, and even war.

 Prior to his journey back to the keys, Lázaro retrieves the old chessboard and makes a startling discovery. The number of scratches, first marked in the saloon over sixty years before and uncounted until now, has the two men evenly tied. As he drives towards the keys, Lázaro is forced to confront a past he has struggled to forget while anticipating the reunion with his old friend and what could be their final game.

 

Much like the tropics, the game of chess is endearing to me. Not because I’m any good at it, but because (much like my characters) I still play chess with my childhood friend–a tradition that has continued for nearly 30 years. Across the board from each other, we have enjoyed and talked about happy times and supported each other while weathering loss. It was this relationship through time in tandem with my love of the Florida keys that inspired me to write the book.

 

  

Do you plan your stories first with an outline or does it come to you as write it?

 

I have a broad idea of how the storyline will take shape, however this changes quite a bit as I’m writing. I’m sure a lot of other authors fin this to be true: As the story unfolds, other ideas surface, often steering the story in a new direction.  

 

Do you know the end of the story at the beginning?

 

When writing West Across the Board I knew certain pieces of the ending but I wasn’t sure how to get there. As much as my story may have strayed from the original outline, it ultimately came back on course to the ending I had planned. I am currently writing another novel and I know exactly how it going to start and how it is going to end. It’s all that pesky stuff in between that takes time!

 

Do you have a process for developing your characters?

 

I tend to outline the kind of character I need and base aspects of them on real life people. I have found this to work pretty well and in a round about way, this method adds more realism to fictional characters.

 

It is said that authors write themselves into their characters. Is there any part of you in your characters and what they would be?

 

I based my two main characters in West Across the Board on other people and by doing so, assumed that very little of my own opinions seeped into the story. But how wrong I was! I can vividly remember when, during a re-read I realized that I’d managed to subtly inject my own viewpoints into the book. In particular, some of my opinions on tourism and how it can be detrimental to certain environments came out through one of my characters. I’m currently writing another novel and have found the same thing to be true.

 

  

What is your most favorite part about this book?

 

I really like the story’s ending (it has become the most talked about part during book clubs) and the chapter about the shipwreck.

 

When in the process of writing your book did you begin to look for a publisher?

 

I waited until the book was finished before seeking a publisher. However with hindsight, I should have been even more patient. Just because a story is written doesn’t mean it’s ready for publication. This was a hard lesson to learn. I submitted the manuscript to several publishers before it was ready. Ultimately, I brought in a professional editor and a writing coach. The result was a much shorter (and much better) book.

 

What struggles have you had on the road to being published?

 

I think the task of finding a publisher can be as daunting as writing a manuscript, perhaps even more so. Chances are, most authors write a book because…well…they’re writers. But being a writer doesn’t make you a marketer. Writing a book and marketing a book to a publisher are two very different animals. In my case, I made countless mistakes during the marketing process, however I learned something from each of them and I feel confident that when I pitch my next novel, I will be more prepared.

In hindsight, writing and trying to publish my first book was a great test of my tenacity. As a freelance writer, I’d already been exposed to rejection letters and managed to push through them to become a regular contributor to several magazines. But when I decided to write and pitch a novel, I wasn’t prepared for the quantity of rejections. There was a period of several months in which I seemed to get at least one “dear author” rejection letter every day. And using the word “letter” is being generous. Often, the rejections would be a Xeroxed, quarter sheet of paper (mailed back to me with the postage I provided) with a few sentences saying they weren’t interested.

After enough rejections, I was faced with an unsettling question: Was my novel any good? I, like so many other writers, had put so much time, energy and thought into it that an answer of “no” was utterly deflating. I may have had a bit of an advantage when faced with this question because I’d published quite a few magazine articles before, but there are only so many rejections you can face before the question is asked. My answer–and ultimately “how I overcame the blows”–was to go with a small POD publisher and see what the readers and reviewers thought before deciding.

Now, a year later, I’m glad I made that decision. Reviews from magazines, newspapers and book reviewers have been very good and the feedback from readers has been touching. I am already well into my second novel and had I given up on the first one, I never would have started.

 

 

 

What has been the best part about being published?

 

 

I’ve always wanted to write a novel so reaching that goal is incredibly rewarding.

 

 

What do you want readers to remember and carry with them after reading your novel?

I worked very hard to animate my fictional characters against geographically and historically accurate backdrops. My hope is that readers will become engaged in a compelling story and learn some things about the Florida Keys along the way. Perhaps the most consistent comment I receive from readers is that after finishing the novel, they wanted to visit Key West.

 

 

Do you have plans to write another book?

 

I am a ways into my second novel (set in the tropics as well) and I hope to have the manuscript completed by the end of this year.

 

Would you care to share with us how the virtual book tour experience with Pump Up Your Book Promotion has been for you?

 

As I’m writing this, the tour is just beginning so I’ll have to wait and see. That being said, the exposure has been nice and this particular marketing strategy is one that I probably would not have come up with on my own.

 

Where can readers find a copy of your book?

 

Online through amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com, or my website.

 

 

Do you have a website for readers to go to?

 

Yes! www.jalbertproductions.com. Please drop me a line and say hello if you visit the site. I’d love to hear from you.

 

Thank you, Andrew for sharing your book and characters with us today. It has been a pleasure and I hope you have had a successful virtual book tour.

 

Thanks again!

 

 

WEST ACROSS THE BOARD VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR ‘08 will officially begin on May 1, 2008 and continue all month. If you would like to follow Andrew’s tour in progress, visit http://www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ in May. Leave a comment on his blog stops and become eligible to win a free copy at the end of his tour! One lucky winner will be announced on this tour page on May 30!

The Heretic – author interview – Andrew Feder

Paperback Writer welcomes Andrew Feder, author of historical fiction novel The Heretic as he continues on his first virtual book tour with Pump Up Your Book Promotion.

 

 

The Heretic Synopsis:

Women flock adoringly to him. Men fear his battlefield prowess. He believes in a monotheistic, infinite God and he’s the best friend of the most powerful man in the world. However, in his time, he was considered not only a hero, but a heretic as well. Meet Aias, the unsung hero behind Alexander the Great, in Andrew Feder’s gripping new novel, “The Heretic.”

 

 

“The Heretic” is both a thrilling mystery adventure and a powerful cultural commentary, because though Feder’s fictional war hero Aias’ religious and sexual practices would be typical today, in ancient Greece, where polytheism and homosexuality were the prominent cultural mores, he was considered an outright heretic. This thought-provoking novel whisks readers back in time with an intriguing story of war and romance, but it actually begins set in a futuristic America.

“The Heretic” is the sequel to Feder’s first novel, “When Angels Have Risen” starring post-modern American Senator Jerry Fletcher. Following some bizarre dreams and an unsettling experience at a Los Angeles museum, Fletcher decides to see a psychic and go under a regression to tap into his past lives. Aias’ story is told through Fletcher’s regression, when he experiences his past life as the Greek war hero.

Aias was Alexander the Great’s mentor and friend, and a key ingredient to his famous military successes. Thanks to Aias’ formidable battle tactics, his enemies nicknamed him The Decapitator. After Alexander’s army enters Egypt, Aias falls in love with an Egyptian high priestess, who shares many of his counter-culture viewpoints and opens his eyes to the secret truth behind the Egyptian sciences and discoveries.

Filled with incredible historical details about one of the most illustrious military campaigns in history, sizzling romance and mystical themes, “The Heretic” is a provocative novel sure to spice up the day of any historical fiction fan.

 

 

Hi Andrew Feder

 

Welcome to Paperback Writer

 

 

Will you share with us how you came up with the idea for this book? 

 

First I was fascinated by Alexander the Great since at such a young age he had accomplished so much while much of his accomplishments have greatly affected much of our culture in the West. But I also wanted to include my own experiences with regression to past lives so incorporated it in “The Heretic.” I felt compelled to implement a message while having the reader enjoy an adventure. So it was collaboration of ideas that came together. So with “The Heretic,” it was just simply a matter of baking the pie once the ideas came together.

  

Do you plan your stories first with an outline or does it come to you as write it?

 

Since “The Heretic” is a historical fiction, I spent approximately a year of research in learning and understanding historical events, detailed areas of the places and aspects of the people in that time and finally understanding Alexander himself which included discovering Alexander’s mindset. The historical events including battle scenes were detailed out. Then I placed myself there – like in a movie. I see, feel – I am there in every way and aspect and I then click away like an artist brushing his/her strokes on a canvass.

 

Do you know the end of the story at the beginning?

 

Never… Never… Never…By not knowing my experience unfolds as I do my writing. Like I said I am there. So I allow the moment to unfold and lead it where it takes me which often even surprises me. And hell, I if I knew the ending of the story that would take the whole fun out of writing it in the first place, wouldn’t it?

 

Do you have a process for developing your characters?

 

The main character like Jerry/Aias I look and feel what he experiences. The remaining characters that are fictitious I create and carve out and adding color and dimension while also allowing the reader to relate to each character in her/his own way. The historical figures that I create to my perspective are what I found during my research. I also used what some would say modern voice because I believe just as now people were people and related to things the same way but with different terms but when translated from ancient tongue would be much the same as today. This could be seen from culture to culture past and present.

 

It is said that authors write themselves into their characters. Is there any part of you in your characters and what they would be?

 

Yes. Jerry/Aias has many aspects of me. I had included my own regressions/past lives in the book along with many experiences. I believe that an author is an artist; therefore he/she will incorporate their inner most experiences and feelings in their canvass, sculpture or book.

 

What is your most favorite part about this book?

 

I can’t say any individual one because there are too many that I truly enjoyed.

 

When in the process of writing your book did you begin to look for a publisher?

 

Only after completing it did I look for a publisher.

 

What struggles have you had on the road to being published?

 

It was definitely hard. Even though this is my second book published. It took five years for my first to be published and six years since “The Heretic” which is the sequel of my first, “When The Angels Have Risen.”

 

What has been the best part about being published?

 

Seeing my book finally in print was the best part about being published followed by waiting and reading responses from readers and reviewers.

 

What do you want readers to remember and carry with them after reading your novel?

 

First I would like them to enjoy the experience – the “E” ride. I also wanted the readers to become their own Heretic by questioning things that are told to them whether by their parents, clerics and/or authorities like the heretics of their time -Spinoza, Jesus, Buddha, Jefferson, Thoreau and so and so on. Never taking things for granted and as Thomas Paine had said, “Reason obeys itself; and ignorance submits to whatever is dictated to it.”

 

Do you have plans to write another book?

 

Yes but I have others already writer and plan to release in the near future – in couple years.

 

Would you care to share with us how the virtual book tour experience with Pump Up Your Book Promotion has been for you?

 

Three words – It has simply been great! Okay that’s five words – my bad…

 

Where can readers find a copy of your book?

 

“The Heretic” can be purchased at Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Borders, many on-line bookstores as well as your local bookstore.

 

Do you have a website for readers to go to?

My website is www.AndrewtheHeretic.com

 

Thank you, Andrew Feder for sharing your book and characters with us today. It has been a pleasure and I hope you have had a successful virtual book tour.

 

THE HERETIC VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR ‘08 will officially begin on May 1, 2008 and continue all month. If you would like to follow Andrew’s tour in progress, visit http://www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ in May. Leave a comment on his blog stops and become eligible to win a free copy at the end of his tour! One lucky winner will be announced on this tour page on May 30!