Sunshine Rodgers's Blog - Posts Tagged "interview"
AUTHOR INTERVIEW: WANDA LUTHMAN
Wanda Luthman is an Author to 11 books! She writes Children's books with positive messages on the pages. For the month of June, I asked Wanda...."What's in Your Bag?"
Me: Wow! Look at all your books! Tell me more about your stories!
Wanda: I have published 11 books so far. All are children’s books with positive social/emotional messages in them. Some of the messages are forgiveness, self-acceptance, and persistence. I write chapter books for ages 7-11 and picture books for ages 0-6. I do have the one small pocket book that’s more for adults. It’s a spiritual fiction book. That’s a new genre for me.
Me: I love your bag! It says "Someday you will be old enough to start reading Fairy Tales again." It's adorable!
Wanda: The bag I chose is one of my favorites. I love what it says! I found it at a bookstore and had to have it. It’s just perfect for my children’s books!
Me: I see two cute little stuffed animals. Why did you include a stuffed unicorn and flamingo?
Wanda: I included two hand-crocheted stuffies (Sir Louie the unicorn; Franky the flamingo) that are made to look exactly like the character in the book. I discovered a woman in the UK who would create whatever you wanted. She does great work! I hope to get stuffies for all my characters.
Me: I see you have your business cards and bookmarks out. You definitely use those for more book exposure! But tell me about this vase of lilacs.
Wanda: My self-publishing company is called Lilacs in Literature because my first book, The Lilac Princess, was about a princess who wanted to go visit the lilacs outside the castle. Anyway, I liked the alliteration and wala the name was formed. And that is why everything is purple-themed too!
For the entire interview, go here:
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Wanda Luthman
Me: Wow! Look at all your books! Tell me more about your stories!
Wanda: I have published 11 books so far. All are children’s books with positive social/emotional messages in them. Some of the messages are forgiveness, self-acceptance, and persistence. I write chapter books for ages 7-11 and picture books for ages 0-6. I do have the one small pocket book that’s more for adults. It’s a spiritual fiction book. That’s a new genre for me.
Me: I love your bag! It says "Someday you will be old enough to start reading Fairy Tales again." It's adorable!
Wanda: The bag I chose is one of my favorites. I love what it says! I found it at a bookstore and had to have it. It’s just perfect for my children’s books!
Me: I see two cute little stuffed animals. Why did you include a stuffed unicorn and flamingo?
Wanda: I included two hand-crocheted stuffies (Sir Louie the unicorn; Franky the flamingo) that are made to look exactly like the character in the book. I discovered a woman in the UK who would create whatever you wanted. She does great work! I hope to get stuffies for all my characters.
Me: I see you have your business cards and bookmarks out. You definitely use those for more book exposure! But tell me about this vase of lilacs.
Wanda: My self-publishing company is called Lilacs in Literature because my first book, The Lilac Princess, was about a princess who wanted to go visit the lilacs outside the castle. Anyway, I liked the alliteration and wala the name was formed. And that is why everything is purple-themed too!
For the entire interview, go here:
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Wanda Luthman
AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Jaimie Engle
For the month of September, I wanted to feature Author Jaimie Engle who has written such book titles as "Write a Book that Doesn't Suck" and “Metal Mouth.” Jaimie gives advice to authors, shares her books and talks about her love of reading and writing.
Me: Thank you for being here today, Jaimie. Tell me and the readers a little bit about yourself.
Jaimie: I am a mother of two boys, a real estate agent with my husband, and the owner of a hound dog named Ahsoka. I am a total goofball who could live on coffee and macaroni ‘n’ cheese, if need be. One of my favorite things to do is geek out with readers on Goodreads and inspire kids on TikTok. It is so awesome that authors can just “talk” to people they don’t know who have read their books. It makes me feel like I’m truly making a difference in a kid’s life when I can offer them hope in 15 seconds or less.
Me: You have written quite a few books. What advice would you give to those who are aspiring authors?
Jaimie: If you want to be an author, you must READ and you must WRITE. In reading, you will begin to develop muscle memory to cadence of story and language, truth in dialogue, pacing, and character/story arcs. You also need to write a lot of stories and poems that will never see the light of day. If you think about an athlete, the majority of their time is spent training, not performing. Most aspiring authors have great stories to tell, but they don’t spend enough time training before they think they are ready to perform, and that brings about bad reviews, rejections, and discouragement for a gift that simply wasn’t ready to be shared with the world…yet. I have a great book called “Write a Book that Doesn’t Suck” that goes into details about ways to improve craft. There is also a great Facebook group of the same name that any author is welcome to join.
Me: Great advice! And you mentioned your book title "Write a Book that Doesn't Suck." Tell me about some of your other books.
Jaimie: My most recent fiction novel “Metal Mouth” was an Editor’s Choice by Kirkus and a recipient of the Publisher’s Weekly Book Life Prize in Fiction (2020). It’s about a girl who gets struck by lightning, and then her braces start transmitting a boy’s voice in her head. She has to figure out if he’s real and if so, why has the universe brought them together? It’s a magical YA romance that touches on deep issues such as drinking, self-image, and boundaries with boys. It received such rave reviews by fans and teachers, that I have outlined a dual book from the boy’s POV that I will work on next year. And my next book launches on 11/24/2020… the second book in the Clifton Chase Adventure series: “Clifton Chase on Castle Rock.” In book 2, Clifton is back in the past to help Robin Hood on an adventure, only he might be able to change the future for his friend in the past….
Me: And what do you hope your readers will gain from reading your books?
Jaimie: I write realistic fiction that questions reality, where every day kids become heroes. When I read a book, I want to leave my life…my problems, my fears, my past…and find myself lost in another world and in another’s shoes. I close a book and want to feel like I can become a better person, that I’ve learned something about life or relationships between the pages that I can apply to my own situations. I hope when people read my books they are transported to a world they never knew existed to discover truths about themselves and the world around them. I hope I leave behind a small footprint that can change the world one reader at a time.
To connect with Author Jaimie Engle:
@JaimieEngleAuthor on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, and Snapchat
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Jaimie Engle
Me: Thank you for being here today, Jaimie. Tell me and the readers a little bit about yourself.
Jaimie: I am a mother of two boys, a real estate agent with my husband, and the owner of a hound dog named Ahsoka. I am a total goofball who could live on coffee and macaroni ‘n’ cheese, if need be. One of my favorite things to do is geek out with readers on Goodreads and inspire kids on TikTok. It is so awesome that authors can just “talk” to people they don’t know who have read their books. It makes me feel like I’m truly making a difference in a kid’s life when I can offer them hope in 15 seconds or less.
Me: You have written quite a few books. What advice would you give to those who are aspiring authors?
Jaimie: If you want to be an author, you must READ and you must WRITE. In reading, you will begin to develop muscle memory to cadence of story and language, truth in dialogue, pacing, and character/story arcs. You also need to write a lot of stories and poems that will never see the light of day. If you think about an athlete, the majority of their time is spent training, not performing. Most aspiring authors have great stories to tell, but they don’t spend enough time training before they think they are ready to perform, and that brings about bad reviews, rejections, and discouragement for a gift that simply wasn’t ready to be shared with the world…yet. I have a great book called “Write a Book that Doesn’t Suck” that goes into details about ways to improve craft. There is also a great Facebook group of the same name that any author is welcome to join.
Me: Great advice! And you mentioned your book title "Write a Book that Doesn't Suck." Tell me about some of your other books.
Jaimie: My most recent fiction novel “Metal Mouth” was an Editor’s Choice by Kirkus and a recipient of the Publisher’s Weekly Book Life Prize in Fiction (2020). It’s about a girl who gets struck by lightning, and then her braces start transmitting a boy’s voice in her head. She has to figure out if he’s real and if so, why has the universe brought them together? It’s a magical YA romance that touches on deep issues such as drinking, self-image, and boundaries with boys. It received such rave reviews by fans and teachers, that I have outlined a dual book from the boy’s POV that I will work on next year. And my next book launches on 11/24/2020… the second book in the Clifton Chase Adventure series: “Clifton Chase on Castle Rock.” In book 2, Clifton is back in the past to help Robin Hood on an adventure, only he might be able to change the future for his friend in the past….
Me: And what do you hope your readers will gain from reading your books?
Jaimie: I write realistic fiction that questions reality, where every day kids become heroes. When I read a book, I want to leave my life…my problems, my fears, my past…and find myself lost in another world and in another’s shoes. I close a book and want to feel like I can become a better person, that I’ve learned something about life or relationships between the pages that I can apply to my own situations. I hope when people read my books they are transported to a world they never knew existed to discover truths about themselves and the world around them. I hope I leave behind a small footprint that can change the world one reader at a time.
To connect with Author Jaimie Engle:
@JaimieEngleAuthor on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, and Snapchat
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Jaimie Engle
Richard Ballo: Author Interview
Richard Ballo is an Author to several books, writing inspirational content and children's books along with nonfiction pieces. For the month of October, I asked Richard..."What's In Your Bag?"
Me: So right away I see several books in your bag! Do want to explain these amazing book titles?
Richard: What's in my bag is two genres of books. One is for adults who want to read inspiring stories of people overcoming obstacles in life, books to understand grief and bereavement and journals for those who are grieving. I write about grief because I was a young widower, only 39, and with two kids to raise. Then I started writing kids stories to cheer my kids up, but life happened and now the books are for my grandkids.
Me: Let's talk about these kids stories, the one featuring the Mouse character!
Richard: The other side of the bag is my children’s picture book series “Martin the Mouse.” Martin is a mischievous mouse who gets chased through well-known houses. This book is for children ages 2-7.
Me: Speaking of Martin the Mouse, I see a little plush toy there in the corner.
Richard: Martin the mouse plush toy is really fun and kids like holding him when they read the stories or have the stories read to them.
Me: And is that a cheese toy I see?
Richard: I also have cheese foam squeeze toys that I give away at book fairs along with stickers and character cards.
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Richard Ballo
Me: So right away I see several books in your bag! Do want to explain these amazing book titles?
Richard: What's in my bag is two genres of books. One is for adults who want to read inspiring stories of people overcoming obstacles in life, books to understand grief and bereavement and journals for those who are grieving. I write about grief because I was a young widower, only 39, and with two kids to raise. Then I started writing kids stories to cheer my kids up, but life happened and now the books are for my grandkids.
Me: Let's talk about these kids stories, the one featuring the Mouse character!
Richard: The other side of the bag is my children’s picture book series “Martin the Mouse.” Martin is a mischievous mouse who gets chased through well-known houses. This book is for children ages 2-7.
Me: Speaking of Martin the Mouse, I see a little plush toy there in the corner.
Richard: Martin the mouse plush toy is really fun and kids like holding him when they read the stories or have the stories read to them.
Me: And is that a cheese toy I see?
Richard: I also have cheese foam squeeze toys that I give away at book fairs along with stickers and character cards.
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Richard Ballo
David Rivas. Interview
David Rivas is a Pharmacist and Clinical Nutritionist/Consultant for NUTEREL a Wellness Through Guided Nutrition. In this featured piece, Rivas talks about his consulting business, his background and the best techniques for healthy living.
Me: Hello David! Thank you for your time today! To introduce yourself to the readers, tell me a little about yourself and your background.
David: I am married to my beautiful wife Jessica, and we have been blessed with two amazing kids, David and Daviana. I met my wife in pharmacy school at the University of Puerto Rico and we graduated together. We moved from Puerto Rico to Orlando, Florida. My wife was pregnant with twins, David Jonathan (DJ) and Daviana, but David Jonathan came with a special package called severe autism. He had aggressive symptoms, hitting his head to the floor, lacking attention and focus, anxiety, insomnia, diarrhea, an obsession with lining up toys, etc. As pharmacists, we understood that there were no effective medications for autism, but my wife and I refused to give up. I went back to school and became a clinical nutritionist with a Master Degree in Nutrition and Functional Medicine from the University of Western States. I began to realize that the more I improved my son's diet, the better he was getting. I understood the concept of optimizing nutrition. When you get healthy, diseases tend to go away. To get healthy, you need optimal nutrition, exercise, positive lifestyle choices, and high-quality dietary supplements. Now, my son is calm, focused, and has excellent grades in school. He is playing basketball, soccer and loves to swim.
Me: Wow!! So let's talk about Nuterel (Wellness through Guided Nutrition). What services do you offer for your clients?
David: We offer nutritional consultation on how to improve our clients' health with a better food selection for an improved focus, concentration, and energy. Our emphasis is to educate families affected by autism. We may also help individuals with conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and autoimmune diseases, which can be improved with a healthy diet. Nutrition empowers people to be in charge of their health. For example, the brain has self-healing mechanisms that are activated by particular foods. When the client becomes aware that eating the right foods can make a healthy version of themselves, they tend to make the right selections. Also, my clients will not feel that they are inside a prison of a particular disease. Having optimal nutrition requires commitment and work, but it is doable, and the benefits are astronomical, like less medical expenses and a clear mind to enjoy life. I am available for live webinars and speaking engagements. Being a certified John Maxwell speaker and coach helps me in these areas.
Me: And what is the price ranges for the services you offer?
David: The initial consultation is priced at $177 and includes a 45 minute consultation, in which I am going to explain an evidence-based nutritional strategy for the particular situation. I will review any deficiencies or interactions caused by medications, an extensive medical history to uncover which problems may be the root cause of a disease, and, more importantly, what may be improved with nutrition, high-quality supplements at the correct dose, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle. In autism, the use of nutritious foods and high-quality dietary supplements can be beneficial for hyperactivity, concentration, insomnia, aggression, etc. My total focus is for my clients to have a better quality of life with more energy, focus, less pain, and more freedom to do what they love.
To contact David Rivas:
Email: drivas@nuterel.com
Phone : (407)739-3347
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Me: Hello David! Thank you for your time today! To introduce yourself to the readers, tell me a little about yourself and your background.
David: I am married to my beautiful wife Jessica, and we have been blessed with two amazing kids, David and Daviana. I met my wife in pharmacy school at the University of Puerto Rico and we graduated together. We moved from Puerto Rico to Orlando, Florida. My wife was pregnant with twins, David Jonathan (DJ) and Daviana, but David Jonathan came with a special package called severe autism. He had aggressive symptoms, hitting his head to the floor, lacking attention and focus, anxiety, insomnia, diarrhea, an obsession with lining up toys, etc. As pharmacists, we understood that there were no effective medications for autism, but my wife and I refused to give up. I went back to school and became a clinical nutritionist with a Master Degree in Nutrition and Functional Medicine from the University of Western States. I began to realize that the more I improved my son's diet, the better he was getting. I understood the concept of optimizing nutrition. When you get healthy, diseases tend to go away. To get healthy, you need optimal nutrition, exercise, positive lifestyle choices, and high-quality dietary supplements. Now, my son is calm, focused, and has excellent grades in school. He is playing basketball, soccer and loves to swim.
Me: Wow!! So let's talk about Nuterel (Wellness through Guided Nutrition). What services do you offer for your clients?
David: We offer nutritional consultation on how to improve our clients' health with a better food selection for an improved focus, concentration, and energy. Our emphasis is to educate families affected by autism. We may also help individuals with conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and autoimmune diseases, which can be improved with a healthy diet. Nutrition empowers people to be in charge of their health. For example, the brain has self-healing mechanisms that are activated by particular foods. When the client becomes aware that eating the right foods can make a healthy version of themselves, they tend to make the right selections. Also, my clients will not feel that they are inside a prison of a particular disease. Having optimal nutrition requires commitment and work, but it is doable, and the benefits are astronomical, like less medical expenses and a clear mind to enjoy life. I am available for live webinars and speaking engagements. Being a certified John Maxwell speaker and coach helps me in these areas.
Me: And what is the price ranges for the services you offer?
David: The initial consultation is priced at $177 and includes a 45 minute consultation, in which I am going to explain an evidence-based nutritional strategy for the particular situation. I will review any deficiencies or interactions caused by medications, an extensive medical history to uncover which problems may be the root cause of a disease, and, more importantly, what may be improved with nutrition, high-quality supplements at the correct dose, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle. In autism, the use of nutritious foods and high-quality dietary supplements can be beneficial for hyperactivity, concentration, insomnia, aggression, etc. My total focus is for my clients to have a better quality of life with more energy, focus, less pain, and more freedom to do what they love.
To contact David Rivas:
Email: drivas@nuterel.com
Phone : (407)739-3347
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Slotski's World: Book Two
For the month of December, I wanted to spotlight Gary Roen's "Slotski's World : Book Two" from his short story collections as my pick of THE BOOK OF THE MONTH.
"Gary Slotski's World" are stories of a teddy bear with amazing powers to help people in time of need. Traces Stacey and Myron Beagle loved their residence in Christmas, Florida, until one day when they returned home from shopping in Titusville to find it completely gone.
Genre: Science fiction
Pages: 180
Here are what others are saying about "Slotski's World : Book Two":
"These are the kind of stories in “Slotski’s World,” that grab you right from the outset. They pull you in and don’t let you go. That’s probably because each one has arisen out of the author’s personal experience, which he carefully lays out in a series of brief “Author’s Notes.“ There is a personal quality to each of them that carries with it a certain charm to match the storylines themselves, carefully crafted around a sagacious teddy bear, who pulls this volume together and leaves you wanting more…" - Kenneth Hanson, Program Director, Associate Professor Judaic Studies, University of Central Florida
To connect with Author Gary Roen:
Facebook
Twitter
Email: gsroen@aol.com
You can purchase "Slotski's World : Book Two" from the following book retail sites:
Legacybookpublishing.com
Amazon.com
Barnesandnoble.com
Walmart.com
Booksamillion.com
Gary Roen
Slotski's World
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
"Gary Slotski's World" are stories of a teddy bear with amazing powers to help people in time of need. Traces Stacey and Myron Beagle loved their residence in Christmas, Florida, until one day when they returned home from shopping in Titusville to find it completely gone.
Genre: Science fiction
Pages: 180
Here are what others are saying about "Slotski's World : Book Two":
"These are the kind of stories in “Slotski’s World,” that grab you right from the outset. They pull you in and don’t let you go. That’s probably because each one has arisen out of the author’s personal experience, which he carefully lays out in a series of brief “Author’s Notes.“ There is a personal quality to each of them that carries with it a certain charm to match the storylines themselves, carefully crafted around a sagacious teddy bear, who pulls this volume together and leaves you wanting more…" - Kenneth Hanson, Program Director, Associate Professor Judaic Studies, University of Central Florida
To connect with Author Gary Roen:
Email: gsroen@aol.com
You can purchase "Slotski's World : Book Two" from the following book retail sites:
Legacybookpublishing.com
Amazon.com
Barnesandnoble.com
Walmart.com
Booksamillion.com
Gary Roen
Slotski's World
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Author Jackie Minniti
Author Jackie Minniti is a teacher and Award-winning Author who has written inspiring yet entertaining books about history and fiction. I asked Jackie, "What's in Your Bag?"
Me: Hello Jackie! It's a pleasure to look at the items in your bag! Right away I see a book called "Project June Bug." Tell me about your book.
Jackie: In the bag is my first novel, a women’s fiction titled "Project June Bug." I wrote it shortly after I retired from 25 years of teaching. Writing a novel was something on my Bucket List, so I decided to give it a try. I wrote about a young, idealistic teacher who puts her career on the line to help a student struggling with ADHD. While "Project June Bug" is primarily an entertaining read, it also gives readers insight into the challenges facing ADHD students and their parents. "Project June Bug" has won several literary awards and has been highly recommended by both teachers and parents.
Me: I love it! And there is a photo I see! Tell me who is in the photo.
Jackie: Next is a photo of my dad on his 99th birthday. He’s holding the first copy of my second novel,"Jacqueline", a middle-grade historical based on an experience my dad had in France shortly after D-day. He was stationed in Rennes as part of the Army‘s 127th General Hospital when he met an 11-year-old girl named Jacqueline who lived near the barracks. She began following him back and forth to work, and a lovely friendship blossomed. It was the only war story he was willing to share. "Jacqueline" has won four literary awards, including a gold medal from the Military Writers Society of America.
Me: Wow! How interesting! And I see another book, "One Small Spark." Tell me about that book.
Jackie: The next book is my second middle-grade historical novel, "One Small Spark", the story of how the fate of a young boy altered the course of our nation’s history. It is set in Boston shortly before the Revolutionary War and can best be described as a coming-of-age novel. "One Small Spark" has received five literary awards, including the Literary Classics Eloquent Quill Award.
Me: And is this a picture of your grandchildren?
Jackie: My grandchildren are the ones I write for and to whom I dedicated "One Small Spark". I am a firm believer that what we don’t learn from history, we are in danger of repeating. As a former teacher, I saw that many children were woefully uninformed about our history or were being taught from textbooks with an agenda I found concerning. I wanted to write stories that would inspire a sense of patriotism and appreciation for the freedoms we in this country enjoy. I hope I’ve accomplished that with "Jacqueline" and "One Small Spark".
To purchase Jackie Minniti's books:
Amazon
To contact Author Jackie Minniti:
Parler : @Luvsclrwtrbeach
Jackie Minniti
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Me: Hello Jackie! It's a pleasure to look at the items in your bag! Right away I see a book called "Project June Bug." Tell me about your book.
Jackie: In the bag is my first novel, a women’s fiction titled "Project June Bug." I wrote it shortly after I retired from 25 years of teaching. Writing a novel was something on my Bucket List, so I decided to give it a try. I wrote about a young, idealistic teacher who puts her career on the line to help a student struggling with ADHD. While "Project June Bug" is primarily an entertaining read, it also gives readers insight into the challenges facing ADHD students and their parents. "Project June Bug" has won several literary awards and has been highly recommended by both teachers and parents.
Me: I love it! And there is a photo I see! Tell me who is in the photo.
Jackie: Next is a photo of my dad on his 99th birthday. He’s holding the first copy of my second novel,"Jacqueline", a middle-grade historical based on an experience my dad had in France shortly after D-day. He was stationed in Rennes as part of the Army‘s 127th General Hospital when he met an 11-year-old girl named Jacqueline who lived near the barracks. She began following him back and forth to work, and a lovely friendship blossomed. It was the only war story he was willing to share. "Jacqueline" has won four literary awards, including a gold medal from the Military Writers Society of America.
Me: Wow! How interesting! And I see another book, "One Small Spark." Tell me about that book.
Jackie: The next book is my second middle-grade historical novel, "One Small Spark", the story of how the fate of a young boy altered the course of our nation’s history. It is set in Boston shortly before the Revolutionary War and can best be described as a coming-of-age novel. "One Small Spark" has received five literary awards, including the Literary Classics Eloquent Quill Award.
Me: And is this a picture of your grandchildren?
Jackie: My grandchildren are the ones I write for and to whom I dedicated "One Small Spark". I am a firm believer that what we don’t learn from history, we are in danger of repeating. As a former teacher, I saw that many children were woefully uninformed about our history or were being taught from textbooks with an agenda I found concerning. I wanted to write stories that would inspire a sense of patriotism and appreciation for the freedoms we in this country enjoy. I hope I’ve accomplished that with "Jacqueline" and "One Small Spark".
To purchase Jackie Minniti's books:
Amazon
To contact Author Jackie Minniti:
Parler : @Luvsclrwtrbeach
Jackie Minniti
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
EM Dunst: Author Interview
For the month of December, I wanted to feature Author E.M. Dunst, the writer of the books "Woven" and "Behind the Eyes." Dunst reveals her influences with Asian dramas, music, and real life experiences as I ask this Author....What's In Your Bag?
Me: I love this literary collection! Immediately, I see quite a handful of notebooks in your bag.
Dunst: The bag itself is important. It's sturdy and big enough to carry all the projects I am working on at the time. I find it important to have it available if another idea pops in my head. I have notebooks that I use to attempt to teach myself other languages. It also represents my love for learning other cultures. There are several writing journals... each one has a story idea in it waiting to be written and drawing journals where I sketch out ideas of future pictures or other ideas I have.
Me: Very interesting! And I see some artwork and some pens. Is there any signifigance to this green pen?
Dunst: I only write my stories in pencil. It's easier to fix mistakes. The green pen I use when I am proofreading a typed hard copy of my stories. Colored pencils are my favorite medium to work with. The pictures are a few examples of the drawings I have created throughout the years.
Me: And tell me about your book, "Woven"?
Dunst: "Woven" is the first full book I wrote. Will the best of friends survive past the jealousy or will revenge rip them apart one thread at a time? When I started it, I thought it would only be a short story. Once I got started on it, I just kept going. I had a couple of friends who read the book and asked me to continue the story. So, you can guess what I am working on now.
Me: And I see another blue book called "Behind the Eyes." Tell me about that book.
Dunst: This is the original draft of "Behind the Eyes". This is the second book I completed and it will be coming out before Spring 2021. Can a police officer and a doctor with entangled past stop a man from terrorizing women from the inside out before he gets into their heads? I am just waiting for the cover to be completed. I write my stories as Asian dramas. If I can't see an idea run in my head smoothly as a scene in a drama, it doesn't make the book.
To purchase "Woven":
Amazon
To connect with Author E.M. Dunst:
Instagram
Twitter
Facebook
Em Dunst
Woven
Me: I love this literary collection! Immediately, I see quite a handful of notebooks in your bag.
Dunst: The bag itself is important. It's sturdy and big enough to carry all the projects I am working on at the time. I find it important to have it available if another idea pops in my head. I have notebooks that I use to attempt to teach myself other languages. It also represents my love for learning other cultures. There are several writing journals... each one has a story idea in it waiting to be written and drawing journals where I sketch out ideas of future pictures or other ideas I have.
Me: Very interesting! And I see some artwork and some pens. Is there any signifigance to this green pen?
Dunst: I only write my stories in pencil. It's easier to fix mistakes. The green pen I use when I am proofreading a typed hard copy of my stories. Colored pencils are my favorite medium to work with. The pictures are a few examples of the drawings I have created throughout the years.
Me: And tell me about your book, "Woven"?
Dunst: "Woven" is the first full book I wrote. Will the best of friends survive past the jealousy or will revenge rip them apart one thread at a time? When I started it, I thought it would only be a short story. Once I got started on it, I just kept going. I had a couple of friends who read the book and asked me to continue the story. So, you can guess what I am working on now.
Me: And I see another blue book called "Behind the Eyes." Tell me about that book.
Dunst: This is the original draft of "Behind the Eyes". This is the second book I completed and it will be coming out before Spring 2021. Can a police officer and a doctor with entangled past stop a man from terrorizing women from the inside out before he gets into their heads? I am just waiting for the cover to be completed. I write my stories as Asian dramas. If I can't see an idea run in my head smoothly as a scene in a drama, it doesn't make the book.
To purchase "Woven":
Amazon
To connect with Author E.M. Dunst:
Em Dunst
Woven
Featured Author Sunshine Rodgers
Featured Interview With Sunshine Rodgers
BOOK READER MAGAZINE
Q: Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
A: I was raised in Virginia and spent quite a few years in Tennessee. Though I loved the mountains, my name is Sunshine and I am a summer girl all the way. So when I couldn’t handle the snow and ice anymore, I migrated down south to “the Sunshine State” and I have been living in Florida for several years with my husband, Travis. I am a Best Selling Author to 8 books. I am also a blogger, a Brand Ambassador/social media influencer and Entrepreneur.
Q: At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
A: I love reading! Even as a kid, I would ask for more books on Christmas and birthdays. My favorite series was “Animorphs” by K.A. Applegate and “Goosebumps” by R.L. Stine. I collected them all! I started writing in a journal when I was 9 years old and I have never stopped writing! I use inspiration from my life to write my stories. My books are about friendship, family, love, romance, marriage and wholesome material for any age to enjoy. I do have one PG-13 Dark Fiction called “After You: A Demon is Always Lurking Nearby” which is a modern day twist on the C.S. Lewis classic “A Screwtape Letters.”
Q: Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
A: My favorite genre to read is Inspirational Fiction, Nonfiction and Documentaries. My favorite authors are Gene Edwards (” A Tale of Three Kings”) , C.S. Lewis (“The Screwtape Letters”) and John Eldredge (“Wild at Heart”). These authors have a passion that just jumps off the pages, and I would love to imitate that creativity in my own writing. These authors break the borders of the imagination and take their readers into deep worlds, fantastical settings and introduce elaborate characters. I also try to explore a deep range in my writings as some of my books are set in Heaven, one is set in Hades, one is told from a demon’s point of view, another from the view of a Paradise Worker. I love books that make you think and I love writing speculative fiction.
Q: Tell us a little about your latest book?
A: My latest book is a Young Adult Fiction Novel “The Characters Within,” inspired by my time working at Florida’s most popular theme park!
Brittany Myers is stuck. She hates her role as a Cheese Crusader to Florida’s popular Cheddar and Such theme park! She is sick of the guests, the heat and working at the Fun at the Parm Attraction which features the animatronics Patty the Pretzel and Peter the Breadstick.
Her only relief from the monotony is writing chapters in her upcoming novel “The Carnival Ride” where she tells stories with theatrical scenes about her co-workers, her fears and the struggles she faces day in and day out.
With the help of her work family, the man of her dreams and her best friend, Brittany discovers that the magic she is looking for was right inside of her the entire time.
Published by: RWG Publishing
Artist: Heather Worley
Audio Book Narrator: Isa Lonergan
This book is available now on Amazon in paperback, hardcover, ebook and audio book!
Connect with the Author on their Websites and Social media profiles
Sunshine Rodgers’s Website
Sunshine Rodgers Facebook Page
Sunshine Rodgers Twitter Account
For the full interview:
https://bookreadermagazine.com/featur...
Sunshine Rodgers
BOOK READER MAGAZINE
Q: Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
A: I was raised in Virginia and spent quite a few years in Tennessee. Though I loved the mountains, my name is Sunshine and I am a summer girl all the way. So when I couldn’t handle the snow and ice anymore, I migrated down south to “the Sunshine State” and I have been living in Florida for several years with my husband, Travis. I am a Best Selling Author to 8 books. I am also a blogger, a Brand Ambassador/social media influencer and Entrepreneur.
Q: At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
A: I love reading! Even as a kid, I would ask for more books on Christmas and birthdays. My favorite series was “Animorphs” by K.A. Applegate and “Goosebumps” by R.L. Stine. I collected them all! I started writing in a journal when I was 9 years old and I have never stopped writing! I use inspiration from my life to write my stories. My books are about friendship, family, love, romance, marriage and wholesome material for any age to enjoy. I do have one PG-13 Dark Fiction called “After You: A Demon is Always Lurking Nearby” which is a modern day twist on the C.S. Lewis classic “A Screwtape Letters.”
Q: Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
A: My favorite genre to read is Inspirational Fiction, Nonfiction and Documentaries. My favorite authors are Gene Edwards (” A Tale of Three Kings”) , C.S. Lewis (“The Screwtape Letters”) and John Eldredge (“Wild at Heart”). These authors have a passion that just jumps off the pages, and I would love to imitate that creativity in my own writing. These authors break the borders of the imagination and take their readers into deep worlds, fantastical settings and introduce elaborate characters. I also try to explore a deep range in my writings as some of my books are set in Heaven, one is set in Hades, one is told from a demon’s point of view, another from the view of a Paradise Worker. I love books that make you think and I love writing speculative fiction.
Q: Tell us a little about your latest book?
A: My latest book is a Young Adult Fiction Novel “The Characters Within,” inspired by my time working at Florida’s most popular theme park!
Brittany Myers is stuck. She hates her role as a Cheese Crusader to Florida’s popular Cheddar and Such theme park! She is sick of the guests, the heat and working at the Fun at the Parm Attraction which features the animatronics Patty the Pretzel and Peter the Breadstick.
Her only relief from the monotony is writing chapters in her upcoming novel “The Carnival Ride” where she tells stories with theatrical scenes about her co-workers, her fears and the struggles she faces day in and day out.
With the help of her work family, the man of her dreams and her best friend, Brittany discovers that the magic she is looking for was right inside of her the entire time.
Published by: RWG Publishing
Artist: Heather Worley
Audio Book Narrator: Isa Lonergan
This book is available now on Amazon in paperback, hardcover, ebook and audio book!
Connect with the Author on their Websites and Social media profiles
Sunshine Rodgers’s Website
Sunshine Rodgers Facebook Page
Sunshine Rodgers Twitter Account
For the full interview:
https://bookreadermagazine.com/featur...
Sunshine Rodgers
Interview with Sunshine Rodgers By Book Goodies
Interview with Author – Sunshine Rodgers
By Book Goodies
About Sunshine Rodgers:
I am a Best Selling Author to 8 books, a writer to several Children's books, Fiction stories and one Nonfiction piece. My books have been translated in Spanish and Portuguese, creating an International fanbase reaching 35K+ followers across all my social media sites. My books have landed #1 and #2 on the Amazon Best Sellers List in the U.S. and U.K. and have landed on 21 different Best Seller Lists on Amazon in the U.S., U.K. and Canada. I have a team of 18 people who are language translators, audio book producers and contributors to my works. I am a Full-Time Author, Entrepreneur and Blogger.
Q: What inspires you to write?
A: I love writing, ever since I was 9-years-old and keeping a journal of my daily adventures in Elementary school.
I am guilty of drawing from my real-life experiences.
For example, my most recent book is a Fiction Young Adult novel, “The Characters Within.” This story is quite unique. It’s a Musical. A Book-within-a-Book. And a love triangle on the pages between Brittany, her best friend Travis and the man of her dreams, Martin.
Brittany Myers is stuck. She hates her role as a Cheese Crusader to Florida's popular Cheddar and Such theme park! She is sick of the guests, the heat and working at the Fun at the Parm Attraction which features the animatronics Patty the Pretzel and Peter the Breadstick.
“The Characters Within” is a very true-to-real life story. I spent over 5 years working at a very popular theme park and I would write pages to my stories during my lunch breaks and any downtime.
In my fiction novel, “The Characters Within,” the main character Brittany works at a popular theme park, Cheddar and Such as a Cheese Crusader for the attraction Fun at the Parm. She is writing a novel, “The Carnival Ride” and she hopes one day she can become an Author.
My story will make the reader step into the world of theme park shenanigans and carnival craziness with silly songs and corny jokes…it’s a delightful read!
Q: What authors do you read when you aren’t writing?
A: I absolutely love John Eldredge. His book "Wild at Heart" is my all-time favorite book. Though my other favorites include: T.D. Jakes, Joyce Meyer, Sarah Dessen, Max Lucado and Gene Edwards.
My book "The Creation Project" is very similar to Gene Edwards' Book, "The Beginning."
And of course, I will read anything by C.S. Lewis!! My book, "After You, A Demon is Always Lurking Nearby" is a modern-day twist on his classic "The Screwtape Letters."
Q: Tell us about your writing process.
A: My stories usually start with just one sentence. Just one idea that I had floating around in my brain. For example, I used the sentence: A demon’s adventure from his point of view as he works for the Underworld.
That was it. All I had on the page was: Chapter 1.
But to let my creative juices flow, I just write with no judgements and no inner criticisms, letting the story unfold naturally.
And after several drafts and nasty red marks from my editor, my most popular book to date was birthed: “After You: A Demon is Always Lurking Nearby.”
I do not have a set schedule but at the very least, my goal is to write one hour a day. With the allotted time I give myself to type, I don’t measure progress by word count or pages completed. I just write what’s next even if it makes no sense to the story. I can always cross it out later. Some of my most surprising dialogue and plot twists have happened when I’m just furthering my story late at night and suddenly, my fingers on the keyboard take over and I am suddenly 5 chapters in.
Q: For Fiction Writers: Do you listen (or talk to) to your characters?
A: This is wacky to say but around Draft #4, my characters start to become self-aware and they each start to "find their own voice." Though I become a "god-in-the-sky" when I first start writing my story…about halfway through the process…I just become an observer to how the characters interact with each other. When I write dialogue for a character, I almost feel an intuitive response of whether or not the character approves of the line. I listen closely to my characters and how they feel and what they think. That's how I form such a tight bond with my stories!
Q: What advice would you give other writers?
A: I am now an Author Representative to my current Publisher which means I am always giving advice to first time scribes.
Here are the words I readily repeat: You will not get rich and famous off your first book. It just won’t happen. You are a no-name author and quite frankly, one book isn’t going to get you too much attention. If you are a real writer, you will write. You will write every day. You may be like me and have a “break out book.” You may have to wait a decade before you start seeing regular sales and consistent money coming in. Just be patient with the process. And write because you love it, not for any other reason.
Q: How did you decide how to publish your books?
A: In the 6 years that I’ve been an author, I have signed with 2 different publishers. My first publisher did a great job with my first two books which then paved my way into my writing career. I can’t rightfully complain but I felt like my first Publisher could have contributed a little more to the process.
I would not sign with my first Publisher again.
I love my current Publisher – RWG Publishing and I have been with RWG for 4 years/6 books.
I knew I did not want to self-publish, so signing with Indie Publishers certainly worked for me.
Q: What do you think about the future of book publishing?
A: I love that now authors and readers have more of a closer connection with each other. Anyone can self-publish their books now which is exciting. With the advancement of social media, readers and authors are only one click, one ZOOM meeting, one virtual book signing away from each other!
What genres do you write?: Christian , Inspirational , Fiction , Nonfiction , Children's Book , Romance , Fantasy
What formats are your books in?: eBook, Print, Both eBook and Print, Audiobook
Sunshine Rodgers
To read the entire interview:
https://bookgoodies.com/interview-wit...
By Book Goodies
About Sunshine Rodgers:
I am a Best Selling Author to 8 books, a writer to several Children's books, Fiction stories and one Nonfiction piece. My books have been translated in Spanish and Portuguese, creating an International fanbase reaching 35K+ followers across all my social media sites. My books have landed #1 and #2 on the Amazon Best Sellers List in the U.S. and U.K. and have landed on 21 different Best Seller Lists on Amazon in the U.S., U.K. and Canada. I have a team of 18 people who are language translators, audio book producers and contributors to my works. I am a Full-Time Author, Entrepreneur and Blogger.
Q: What inspires you to write?
A: I love writing, ever since I was 9-years-old and keeping a journal of my daily adventures in Elementary school.
I am guilty of drawing from my real-life experiences.
For example, my most recent book is a Fiction Young Adult novel, “The Characters Within.” This story is quite unique. It’s a Musical. A Book-within-a-Book. And a love triangle on the pages between Brittany, her best friend Travis and the man of her dreams, Martin.
Brittany Myers is stuck. She hates her role as a Cheese Crusader to Florida's popular Cheddar and Such theme park! She is sick of the guests, the heat and working at the Fun at the Parm Attraction which features the animatronics Patty the Pretzel and Peter the Breadstick.
“The Characters Within” is a very true-to-real life story. I spent over 5 years working at a very popular theme park and I would write pages to my stories during my lunch breaks and any downtime.
In my fiction novel, “The Characters Within,” the main character Brittany works at a popular theme park, Cheddar and Such as a Cheese Crusader for the attraction Fun at the Parm. She is writing a novel, “The Carnival Ride” and she hopes one day she can become an Author.
My story will make the reader step into the world of theme park shenanigans and carnival craziness with silly songs and corny jokes…it’s a delightful read!
Q: What authors do you read when you aren’t writing?
A: I absolutely love John Eldredge. His book "Wild at Heart" is my all-time favorite book. Though my other favorites include: T.D. Jakes, Joyce Meyer, Sarah Dessen, Max Lucado and Gene Edwards.
My book "The Creation Project" is very similar to Gene Edwards' Book, "The Beginning."
And of course, I will read anything by C.S. Lewis!! My book, "After You, A Demon is Always Lurking Nearby" is a modern-day twist on his classic "The Screwtape Letters."
Q: Tell us about your writing process.
A: My stories usually start with just one sentence. Just one idea that I had floating around in my brain. For example, I used the sentence: A demon’s adventure from his point of view as he works for the Underworld.
That was it. All I had on the page was: Chapter 1.
But to let my creative juices flow, I just write with no judgements and no inner criticisms, letting the story unfold naturally.
And after several drafts and nasty red marks from my editor, my most popular book to date was birthed: “After You: A Demon is Always Lurking Nearby.”
I do not have a set schedule but at the very least, my goal is to write one hour a day. With the allotted time I give myself to type, I don’t measure progress by word count or pages completed. I just write what’s next even if it makes no sense to the story. I can always cross it out later. Some of my most surprising dialogue and plot twists have happened when I’m just furthering my story late at night and suddenly, my fingers on the keyboard take over and I am suddenly 5 chapters in.
Q: For Fiction Writers: Do you listen (or talk to) to your characters?
A: This is wacky to say but around Draft #4, my characters start to become self-aware and they each start to "find their own voice." Though I become a "god-in-the-sky" when I first start writing my story…about halfway through the process…I just become an observer to how the characters interact with each other. When I write dialogue for a character, I almost feel an intuitive response of whether or not the character approves of the line. I listen closely to my characters and how they feel and what they think. That's how I form such a tight bond with my stories!
Q: What advice would you give other writers?
A: I am now an Author Representative to my current Publisher which means I am always giving advice to first time scribes.
Here are the words I readily repeat: You will not get rich and famous off your first book. It just won’t happen. You are a no-name author and quite frankly, one book isn’t going to get you too much attention. If you are a real writer, you will write. You will write every day. You may be like me and have a “break out book.” You may have to wait a decade before you start seeing regular sales and consistent money coming in. Just be patient with the process. And write because you love it, not for any other reason.
Q: How did you decide how to publish your books?
A: In the 6 years that I’ve been an author, I have signed with 2 different publishers. My first publisher did a great job with my first two books which then paved my way into my writing career. I can’t rightfully complain but I felt like my first Publisher could have contributed a little more to the process.
I would not sign with my first Publisher again.
I love my current Publisher – RWG Publishing and I have been with RWG for 4 years/6 books.
I knew I did not want to self-publish, so signing with Indie Publishers certainly worked for me.
Q: What do you think about the future of book publishing?
A: I love that now authors and readers have more of a closer connection with each other. Anyone can self-publish their books now which is exciting. With the advancement of social media, readers and authors are only one click, one ZOOM meeting, one virtual book signing away from each other!
What genres do you write?: Christian , Inspirational , Fiction , Nonfiction , Children's Book , Romance , Fantasy
What formats are your books in?: eBook, Print, Both eBook and Print, Audiobook
Sunshine Rodgers
To read the entire interview:
https://bookgoodies.com/interview-wit...
Laura Thomas. Author Interview
Author Laura Thomas explains that she writes heartwarming encouragement for the soul and has penned novels, children’s stories, devotionals and articles... through that hope-filled lens.
Me: Hello Laura Thomas! You are a published Christian Author. Tell me a little bit about yourself
Laura: I have three Christian romantic suspense novels published as well as a Christian teen fiction trilogy, marriage book, middle-grade novel, several anthology books, devotionals, articles, and stories in magazines and online. I’m a chocoholic mom of three grown children and am married to my high school sweetheart. Originally from the UK, we live in Kelowna, British Columbia as audacious empty-nesters.
Me: Wow! Congrats on your literary success! Tell me about some more about your books.
Laura: My Flight to Freedom series is Christian romantic suspense, published by Anaiah Press. The Glass Bottom Boat, The Lighthouse Baby, and The Orphan Beach can also be read as stand-alone novels and are all stories of hope with some nail-biting tension.
Me: What is next for you? Any new books?
Laura: I just finished writing my latest Christian romantic suspense manuscript and sent it to my literary agent mere days ago, so now I have to be patient—not my forte! It’s a brand-new series set in an idyllic village nestled in the English countryside, and it involves a Canadian photographer, a dashing surgeon, guilt and grief, and the ugly underbelly of the art world.
Me: What inspired you to be an Author?
Laura: Books have always brought me such joy. I was an absolute bookworm as a child and dreamed of being the next Beatrix Potter one day. And then many years later, when I shared my dream of writing a book with my husband, he encouraged me to pursue it… and eventually the author life became a reality!
Me: I love to read, too! Who are your literary influences?
Laura: My all-time favorite book is Little Women, and Louisa May Alcott certainly impacted my desire to be an author when I was a little girl. More recent authors who have inspired me in my writing include Francine Rivers, Colleen Coble, Dee Henderson, Terri Blackstock, and Angela Hunt, for their compelling writing in the world of Christian fiction.
To contact Author Laura Thomas:
Website
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter
Youtube
To purchase Laura's Books:
Amazon
To see the entire post:
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Laura Thomas
Me: Hello Laura Thomas! You are a published Christian Author. Tell me a little bit about yourself
Laura: I have three Christian romantic suspense novels published as well as a Christian teen fiction trilogy, marriage book, middle-grade novel, several anthology books, devotionals, articles, and stories in magazines and online. I’m a chocoholic mom of three grown children and am married to my high school sweetheart. Originally from the UK, we live in Kelowna, British Columbia as audacious empty-nesters.
Me: Wow! Congrats on your literary success! Tell me about some more about your books.
Laura: My Flight to Freedom series is Christian romantic suspense, published by Anaiah Press. The Glass Bottom Boat, The Lighthouse Baby, and The Orphan Beach can also be read as stand-alone novels and are all stories of hope with some nail-biting tension.
Me: What is next for you? Any new books?
Laura: I just finished writing my latest Christian romantic suspense manuscript and sent it to my literary agent mere days ago, so now I have to be patient—not my forte! It’s a brand-new series set in an idyllic village nestled in the English countryside, and it involves a Canadian photographer, a dashing surgeon, guilt and grief, and the ugly underbelly of the art world.
Me: What inspired you to be an Author?
Laura: Books have always brought me such joy. I was an absolute bookworm as a child and dreamed of being the next Beatrix Potter one day. And then many years later, when I shared my dream of writing a book with my husband, he encouraged me to pursue it… and eventually the author life became a reality!
Me: I love to read, too! Who are your literary influences?
Laura: My all-time favorite book is Little Women, and Louisa May Alcott certainly impacted my desire to be an author when I was a little girl. More recent authors who have inspired me in my writing include Francine Rivers, Colleen Coble, Dee Henderson, Terri Blackstock, and Angela Hunt, for their compelling writing in the world of Christian fiction.
To contact Author Laura Thomas:
Website
Youtube
To purchase Laura's Books:
Amazon
To see the entire post:
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Laura Thomas
