Meet the Author: Mindy Haig

Enjoy getting to know, Mindy Haig.

Thank you for joining me today. Tell us in three words how you would best describe your writing.

Makes you wonder!

Share your favorite passage from your book in one paragraph or less.

From Glory:

“He is what the Father made him, Kay.  He is Sammael, the last son of the Glory of God and the only divine Angel ever given a will of his own.  He is the Taker of Souls.  He is temptation.  He is Immortal.  He is my brother.”

Sammael looked up from where he knelt before the descendent of the first son of dirt.  The will of his father come to fruition after so many lifetimes of denial.

Nate inclined his head to him.  Then he turned and he walked out of that place whole with Kay in his arms.

You’ve been presented with the opportunity to be a best-selling author but can never write again or write forever but never have a bestseller. Which scenario sounds more tempting?

Well, I write because it keeps my brain active.  I enjoy doing the research and the whole creative process.  I guess if I had to chose I would continue to write.

If you could live on a college campus and never leave or in a small town but be able to travel, which one would you choose?

That’s a hard choice.  If it was an actual town with a coffee shop, a diner, a grocery store, etc… and I could travel anywhere in the world, I would definitely choose that.  But I am a city slicker!  I like walking places.  I don’t like driving. I know I don’t have what it takes to live out in the rural country setting.  So if I have to drive 12 miles to the grocery store, that is a big no for me.

Okay, how about in an amusement park or an airport?

Airport.  I am a talker.  I talk to everyone.  And my one real talent in life is I am great at remembering names.  I can find someone I know everywhere!   Amusement park rides make me queasy, though I could probably live in Disney World for quite a while, especially if I could be one of the princesses!

And how about Australia or Scotland?

Probably Australia, but I haven’t been to either place so it’s hard to say!

Who is your favorite 90’s band (I’m thinking Counting Crows, Blink 182, Hootie & the Blowfish)?

I would say Pearl Jam.  Ten was the best album ever!  I like a huge variety of music, though.  I was a DJ in college, so there really is not much I won’t listen to.

Their new stuff is pretty good too 🙂

Is there any good band out there today that we’ll talk about in 50 years?

Hmm.  Maybe Muse, they have a good sound and they are creative in their use of technology.

And what about your favorite comedy on TV (My favorite is The Office)?

I don’t watch much television.  I would say my favorite comedy is The Big Bang Theory.

Honestly, I prefer cartoons to sitcoms!  Love cartoons! 

Is there anything you’re currently working on?

I currently have six works in progress!  Two are sequels: The White Room is the sequel to The Wishing Place,  Forsaken is the sequel to Glory.  One is a YA novel called Undead 101, one is a thriller and the other two are more paranormal romance, which is what I write most frequently.

Who is your favorite author and if you could ask him/her one question, what would it be?

Douglas Adams was my favorite author of all time!

Christopher Moore is my favorite author who is still writing.  If I could ask him anything,

I would want to know which of his characters he sees as himself.  I think all authors put something of themselves into their character, whether it is something they would have liked to have been or done, or something they did and enjoyed.  Christopher Moore has had some really outrageous characters so I would want to know which one he is.

Lightning round:

Ocean or mountains? Mountains (I am allergic to the ocean.  Weird, right?)

Yogurt or ice cream? Ice Cream, chocolate-peanut butter!

M & M’s or Skittles? M&M’s

The Daily Show or The Colbert Report? Neither

Happy or sad ending to a novel? Happy, always happy, but I am willing to take the long road to get to happy!

Beer or wine? Beer

Flying or driving? Flying

Hemingway or Twain? Poe.  Sorry, they just aren’t my style.

You’re able to sit down with any leader in world history. Who would you choose, what would you talk about, and would you rather have him over to your house or meet at their place of royalty?

Well, right now my answer would be King Charles II of England. I am writing a flash back to his reign into Forsaken, leading up to the Great Fire of London in 1666 so I would love to be at the palace at Whitehall and experience the court.  I would ask him about his affairs and his many illegitimate children.  I would ask him about the posthumous decapitation of Oliver Cromwell.  He’s a very interesting character, there are many things I would like to ask!

You can wish for one thing and one thing only, not world peace and no more wishes. What’s it gonna be? 🙂

Ok, this probably will seem off the wall, but if I could have one wish Round Rock, TX would have a Natatorium!  As the mom of 2 competitive swimmers, and a great lover of the sport, it has been my mission to try to make this happen!  I have said a number of times (and not even necessarily as a joke!) that if I could sell a million copies of my books, I would build it!  So there you have it.  I need to have a huge best seller so that the South Texas region of USA Swimming can have a Natatorium in Round Rock!  Swimming fans,Water Polo fans, Divers, pop right over to Amazon and buy my books! 

(Or I could hit the lotto.  We’d still get the Natatorium and the odds are probably similar!)

 

Mindy’s Bio

I am a graduate of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. I was born and raised in New Jersey so I am very much a city slicker. I moved to Florida to marry my sweetheart after college and marveled at how little there was to do and how much one had to drive to do it! But due to a job change and an abrupt move, we settled in Austin Texas where the mottos is ‘Keep Austin Weird’ and I try my best to uphold it!

I am the mother of 2 great kids and though writing has always been a pursuit I was interested in, being a Mommy got in the way for quite a few years. I decided I would give it a fair shake in 2009 and I haven’t been able to quit since.  I have a hard time stopping my ideas and when a seemingly great idea hits me – typically just as I am attempting to fall asleep – I am compelled to start an outline.

My 2 great talents are:

1. My remarkable ablilty to remember names – which has served me well.

2. My ability to remember lyrics from every song I ever heard in the 70’s and 80’s – which has not helped me in the slightest.

I have a quirky sense of humor and sometimes TV commercials crack me up.

I like the notion of things being ‘meant to be’ or somehow touched by the unexplainable, so that tends to be a theme in my writing. I also like the effect music has on one’s state of mind and the memories a song can recall.

The photo is me with my lovely daughter, Delaney taken in August at the Roman Baths, Bath, England.  Delaney is an aspiring graphic artist! and she has done the cover art for The Messenger, Glory, Cybilla and Forsaken (coming in 2104)

Mindy on Facebook

Mindy on Twitter

Mindy on Goodreads

Mindy’s Books

Cover Reveal for “Elected”

Check out the cover for the amazingly talented, Rori Shay.

Meet the Author: K D Rose

Enjoy getting to know, K D Rose.

Thank you for joining me today. Tell us in three words how you would best describe your writing.

Eclectic, imaginative, metaphorical

Share your favorite passage from your book in one paragraph or less.

I’ll share a passage from one that has been not been published yet. There are two published on Amazon and one that is with Lycaon Press, the Young Adult/New Adult Arm of Breathless Press Publishing that will be out before the end of the year. I am extremely excited to have been picked up by Lycaon Press!

—————-

“So basically, everything is FUBAR,” said Stu, using an old military term. “Only no one is really sure how FUBAR it all is…”

“Basically,” agreed Jonathan, plopping down on the couch, whose stuffing was showing.

“And young master Michael still hates my guts.”

“Basically,” agreed Jonathan.

“Yet you still want my help,” Stu stated more than asked.

“Basically,” answered Jonathan. He knew Stu would help. They were good friends now. No one knew that, for good reason, but they also didn’t know Stu had a decent heart inside all that bluster and arrogance.

“Well, since I’m the only one that really kept up study and work on the astral, with you somewhat too, it makes it pretty damn difficult.” Stu sat backwards on one of the ‘dining’ chairs.

“Yep,” agreed Jonathan. “I have an idea though.”

“Oh you do, do you.” Stu grinned. Jonathan knew that grin. Stu liked trouble.

They settled in and discussed the idea at length. They both agreed that, although troublesome, and likely to cause problems with the others, it probably was still the best idea to employ.

“But you know,” said Stu, “Michael will never forgive you if we do this behind his back.”

“Yes, he will,” said Jonathan, hesitating. “Or, he will if it works.”

Stu shrugged. “He’s your brother. I’ll need a couple hours to prepare.”

“What do you want me to do in the meantime?” asked Jonathan.

“Just go home. I’ll find you.” Stu had a wicked grin on his face.

“You know you have to be normal, right?” Jonathan looked worried.

“Don’t sweat it bro. I’ve got it covered,” said Stu.

Jonathan put his face in his hands but went ahead and left. The screen door screeched behind him.

Stu began to prepare. He had never done anything of this scope before but he felt ready. Yep. It promised to be a fun week.

——————-

You’ve been presented with the opportunity to be a best-selling author but can never write again or write forever but never have a bestseller. Which scenario sounds more tempting?

One thing you should know about me is that I am a quantum Idealist. I don’t believe in binary choices. Ha Ha. I will try to answer where I can, but you may find third options in here. In my world, Schrödingers cat is dead, alive, and is also living out multiple lives in different realities.

In the above question it would definitely be write forever but never have a bestseller. Writing is part of my DNA and I am more concerned that the few people who did read it got something out of it, or even better, what I was trying to get through the writing to them!

If you could live on a college campus and never leave or in a small town but be able to travel, which one would you choose?

I would live on a college campus forever if I could and go for degrees until they ran out. I’m getting older now though so it would have to be where all the Ph.D.s hang out and not near the keggers. LOL Of course this is a fairytale godmother pumpkin answer.

Okay, how about in an amusement park or an airport?

If I had to choose I could say amusement park and just park myself somewhere and people watch (they’d be happier people to watch than in an airport.)

And how about Australia or Scotland?

How about London?

Who is your favorite 90’s band (I’m thinking Counting Crows, Blink 182, Hootie & the Blowfish)?

I would have to say I still love some of the 90s bands who are still around, like U2 (ok they started before the 90s) and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Then there’s Radiohead, Janes Addiction, The Cure. Actually aren’t all these actually still around? Then there’s Matt Nathanson, who started in the 90s and is still going, though not technically a band, he puts out songs that kill my heart so I have to include him. Then there is Jeff Buckley. Oh there’s Indigo Girls too.  Hey why don’t you just list all the bands that exist. That would work. ; )

Is there any good band out there today that we’ll talk about in 50 years?

Man that’s hard. I think we’ll still be talking about Bob Dylan and Jeff Buckley in 50 years. Bands. That’s hard. I love Cage the Elephant but I can’t say we’ll be talking about them in 50 years. Though they’re pretty young so maybe!

And what about your favorite comedy on TV (My favorite is The Office)?

The Daily Show and Doctor Who are pretty much the only shows I watch. When do I have time for TV?

Is there anything you’re currently working on?

Yeah, a seven book series.  Erasing: Shadows, which comes out this year, is the first book. Seven is daunting, I have to say. We plan to put out at least two books a year. And that doesn’t include my indie books which I will keep putting out. The next one is called I AM (Poetry in Motion). Poetry is the language of the Gods. It’s a shame more people don’t read it.

Who is your favorite author and if you could ask him/her one question, what would it be?

It’s a toss- up between Harlan Ellison and Philip K. Dick. I’d have to give the edge to Harlan because he involves my gut, whereas Phil is more cerebral. It’s that passion of Harlan’s that got me, even as a kid. Harlan can still make me cry.  I don’t have a question for him, just a command that he must live forever. And if he can’t live forever, then he has to find a replacement just like him before he goes.  It’s a requirement of some groups you know, that you can’t move up until you replace yourself. Yes, I’m serious.

Lightning round:

Ocean or mountains? Ocean

Yogurt or ice cream? Ice cream

M & M’s or Skittles? M&Ms (Chocolate must win the day)

The Daily Show or The Colbert Report? Daily Show though I love Stephen Colbert.  Funny Truth gets me more than satire. But have you ever seen Stephen Colbert have physicists on and give them a run for their money? Smart, funny men are super sexy.

Happy or sad ending to a novel? Happy. I’m not reading to be depressed. Life is hard enough! That’s novel’s though. You can have your way with me with poetry.

Beer or wine? I don’t drink either.  Once a year I’ll have one of those coffees with some Baileys in it. Does that count?

Flying or driving? Driving as long as there is light traffic. Because let me tell you, driving in real traffic isn’t driving, it’s parking.  Never flying, it’s gotten to where it really bites the big one. I want a tour bus. That’s what I want!

Hemingway or Twain? E. E. Cummings. (I warned you!)

I like him 🙂

You’re stranded on a desert island and you can take two things with you as well as two people. What and who are you bringing?

Two things: music and something to play it on. (I know you thought I’d say books, but music inspires me *for* books)

Two people: Mother and Husband

You’re able to sit down with any leader in world history. Who would you choose, what would you talk about, and would you rather have him over to your house or meet at their place of royalty.

Oh good grief. Like I am the person to pick for that. I’d send a proxy with some actual skills and probably sit down with George Bush and Dick Cheney. That or send an assassin to Hitler or Genghis Khan. And no, I don’t want any of them over to my house.  Me- I’d only send me to Harlan Ellison. But that would be just to fan out.  LOL  If you wanted to get some serious work done, send me to Neil deGrasse Tyson.  (No, really, send me!)

You can wish for one thing and one thing only, not world peace and no more wishes. What’s it gonna be? 🙂

I’d wish to write the most important book in history.

 

K.D. Rose is an author and poet and currently has two books on Amazon: “Heavy Bags of Soul” and “Inside Sorrow”- A Silver Award winner for the 2013 International Readers Favorite Awards. See 2 pertinent reviews here: http://readersfavorite.com/book-review/11314 and http://readersfavorite.com/book-review/8667

K.D.’s current book, Erasing: Shadows, the first in a series, has just been picked up by Lycaon Press, the Young Adult/New Adult Arm of Breathless Press Publishing. Look for Erasing: Shadows before the end of 2013!

K.D. has an eclectic mind and loves language, physics, philosophy, photography, design, art, writing, symbolism, semiotics, codes, spirituality, and Dr. Who.

KD Rose is an avid supporter of music, the arts, cutting edge science, technology, and creativity in all forms that encourage us to expand and explore past the artificial limits we often set for ourselves, and see the everyday connections that exist among all things.

K.D. Rose values the question more than the answer and loves creativity and innovation. K.D. is also a sucker for cutting edge thought and has been known to bring some into reality herself.

Check out her books. Writing like no other!

Join K D Rose on the following social media sites:

Twitter: @kdrose1
Website: http://www.kdroseauthortales.com  (You are just as likely to find music on here as writing.)
Email: kdroseauthor@gmail.com
Facebook Personal Page: I encourage friending by all authors and writers in order to build networks! https://www.facebook.com/kdroseauthor

Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/K.D.RoseWriter?skip_nax_wizard=true

Network Blogs: http://www.networkblogs.com (Feeds go here to over 400 followers, rather than directly to the website.)
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6038789.K_D_Rose
Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=184204909&trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile

Meet the Author: K.R. Thompson

Today, I have the pleasure of introducing you to an author who is as creative as they come. She’s taken on the task of bringing a people group back to life and mixing in a bit of magic along the say. Sit down, take off your shoes, and keep a close eye on them so they don’t suddenly disappear. Enjoy getting to know, K.R. Thompson.

You’re the author of HIDDEN MOON. Tell us what made you write this book and a little bit about the series, the Keeper Saga.

I had the opportunity to visit our local museum (Wolf Creek Indian Village and Museum), here in Bland County, VA, a few years. My imagination sparked to life when the tour guide told the story of the human remains that were found there when the interstate came through. Fourteen bodies—Indian—and an animal’s bones– possibly that of a wolf.

I became intrigued with the idea of an Indian tribe on the brink of extinction. What would happen if Nature had stepped in to help them? Would those fourteen souls have survived? And the wolf—what magic could he have brought to them?

I did some research and found an extinct tribe, the Wighcomocos. Then I started writing them back into life and gave them a legend and magic passed from father to son through each generation. They’re known as The Keepers, protectors of the woods and all that live within.

The Keeper Saga is a series that follows these protectors through the magic, mysteries, legends, and the danger that threatens to destroy their way of life.

Share your favorite passage from one of your books in one paragraph or less.

“Wherever there is life, there is magic. So many people just don’t see it. They look, but they don’t really see. Every tree… every animal…all full of life…full of Magic. It’s not just in this forest, but in everything…everywhere. The trick is to teach yourself to see.  When you learn to see, you’ll find things you’ve will have thought were only in your dreams…” Hidden Moon.

You’ve been presented with the opportunity to be a best-selling author but can never write again or write forever but never have a bestseller. Which scenario sounds more tempting?

Write forever! Money isn’t everything, and writing is too much fun to give up!

If you could live on a college campus and never leave or in a small town but be able to travel, which one would you choose?

I’m already in a small town (which I love!) and traveling to new places is always awesome!

Okay, how about in a zoo or in a museum?

Traveling to a zoo or a museum? I’d say both! I’m guessing we are talking about living arrangements though, so I’d have to go with museum! Though it would be less exciting, there would be less chance of being eaten whilst you sleep. 🙂

And what about Scotland or Canada?

Scotland!!! It’s number one on my bucket list of places to travel and explore!

Who is your favorite 90’s band (I’m thinking Counting Crows, Blink 182, Hootie & the Blowfish)?

Hootie!  (You must be psychic to have put that there!)

Is there any good band out there today that we’ll talk about in 50 years?

Aerosmith. I think Steven Tyler probably has another 50 years in him. I think they are either immortal already, or…very lucky!

And what about your favorite comedy on TV (My favorite is The Office)?

That 70s Show

Is there anything you’re currently working on?

Yes, the second installment of the Keeper Saga—Once Upon a Haunted Moon, slated for release this December. I’ve also started working on a detective mystery, which I hope to have out sometime within the next year.

Who is your favorite author and if you could ask him/her one question, what would it be?

Diana Gabaldon, author of the Outlander series—“How on earth do you keep all of the details straight?”  (She writes absolutely marvelous books, truly works of art…but they are enormous and the historical data alone in them is astounding!)

Lightning round:

Ocean or mountains? Mountains!

Peaches or plums? Plums!

M & M’s or Skittles? M & M’s! (Chocolate factor, there, that one was easy! 🙂

The Daily Show or The Colbert Report? Neither

Happy or sad ending to a novel? Happy! There’s enough sadness in the world.

Beer or wine? Wine

Flying or driving? Driving!

Hemingway or Thoreau? Hemingway

You’re stranded on a desert island and you can take two things with you as well as two people. What and who are you bringing?

My two people—my husband and son, whom I never want to be without. Only two things, wow!  Hmm. A swiss army knife and a fishing pole! Survival is always key.

You’re able to sit down with any leader in world history. Who would you choose, what would you talk about, and would you rather have him over to your house or meet at their place of royalty

I’d go back in time and meet George Washington. I’d want to see what he would say about how things are today. I’d go to his place!

You can wish for one thing and one thing only, not world peace and no more wishes. What’s it gonna be? 🙂

That the world learns to respect nature before it is too late.  It isn’t “world peace”, per se, but more of “world awareness”. I want there to still be a world for my little boy when he grows up, and for his kids after him.

 

K.R. Thompson

K.R. Thompson was raised in the mountains of southwest Virginia. She resides in Bland County with her husband, son, two cats, and an undeterminable amount of chickens.

When she is not writing, she is an avid reader and a firm believer in magic. She still watches for evidence of Bigfoot in the mud of Wolf Creek.

Connect with K.R. below:

K.R.’s Website

K.R. on Facebook

Meet the Author: Erin Albert

Today, we’re talking to a promising author who is set to release her first book this November. She’s smart, she’s talented, and best of all- she loves the same 90’s music as me! Sit back, pull out your “to-read list,” and enjoy getting to know the lovely, Erin Albert.

You’re the author of the upcoming young adult fantasy (November 2013), THE PROPHECY. Share a line/passage with us that the world needs to read.

Geez Louise, we’re starting this interview off with a bang!  LOL!  <goes to scour the  manuscript>

“I see you’re going to be trouble.” He brushed the dirt off his robes.  “You can’t escape your destiny, girl.”

You’ve been presented with the opportunity to be a best-selling author but can never write again or write forever but never have a bestseller. Which scenario sounds more tempting?

While my dream is obviously to write a bestseller, I’ll always be a writer.  My self-definition includes the word “writer.”  To not be one would be to remove a part of who I am.  So, I’d choose to write forever but never have a bestseller.

If you could live on a college campus and never leave or in a small town but be able to travel, which one would you choose?

I have lived in both actually. College campuses ROCK…for a season.  I had the most fun living there, but I would choose to ultimately live in a small town and travel.  I would love to see the world!  Though…how small are we talking?  I must have access to a Target.  Haha!!  😉

Okay, how about Spain or England?

Not to be non-committal, but I’d love to go to either one.

Who is your favorite 90’s band (I’m thinking Counting Crows, Blink 182, Hootie & the Blowfish)? 

Wow, great question!  For your reading pleasure, I will do a word association with the bands I list.  Some 90’s bands I enjoy:  Hootie and the Blowfish (Yeah the Dolphins make me cry), Savage Garden (I’ll be your dream, I’ll be your wish, I’ll be your fantasy), Green Day (When I come around), Boyz to Men (…this one isn’t G rated…not even PG rated-  LOL), REM (That’s me in the corner, that’s me in the spot…light), Dave Matthew’s Band (All the little ants are marching), Cranberries (Zombie, zombie, zombie-ee-ee-ee) and Goo Goo Dolls (I’d give up forever to touch you). 

To pick a “favorite,” I’m stuck between Dave Matthews Band and Hootie. However, the person I have THE most 90’s music from on my iPod is Alanis Morissette. 

We literally like the same music, except Boyz to Men 🙂

And what about your favorite comedy on TV (I love The Office and Seinfeld)?

My favorite comedy right now is Modern Family.  I swear that show has me in stitches every single time I watch an episode.  They did one episode recently that made me cry, and I got a little peeved.  LOL!  Make me laugh…you’re a comedy, for crying out loud!

Is there anything you’re currently working on?

Oh yes, I am always working on something.  Right now, I am revising the sequel to The Prophecy (working title–The Outlanders).  I wrote the whole trilogy at once, but I made some changes to The Prophecy that now must be filtered down to the other two.  I’m also putting the finishing touches on a speculative fiction short story to enter into a contest.  And finally, I’m in the process of revising a futuristic thriller tentatively called Number 25598.  Like The Prophecy’s sequel, it’s already written, but I’m doing some major rewrites. 

Who is your favorite author and if you could ask him/her one question, what would it be?

My favorite writer (don’t know if you call him an “author” per se) is Shakespeare. I also act, so maybe that influences my opinion.  😉  For my “question,” I’d say, “Tell me everything.”  LOL!   I want to know his process, his muse(s), all of it. 

Lightning round:

Ocean or mountains? Ocean

Bananas or oranges? Bananas but only in a smoothie.

Skittles or M & M’s? M&M’s  (always pick the chocolate!!)

Happy or sad ending to a novel? Happy.  Life is sad.  I read to escape.  😉

Beer or wine? Neither.

Flying or driving? Driving.  I’m terrified of flying.

Mark Twain or Joyce Carol Oates? Mark Twain. Don’t hate, but I’ve never read Joyce Carol Oates.  I can’t really make a fair comparison if I’ve read one but not the other…  😉

You’re stranded on a desert island and you can take two things with you as well as two people. What and who are you bringing?

Two things:  Stranded on a Deserted Island for Dummies and a satellite phone

Two people: My two closest friends.  Our families would immediately come looking for us (thanks to the satellite phone), but we’d have a blast while we wait to be rescued.  😉 

Seriously, I’m an indoor girl.  I do NOT want to be stranded on an island without the ability to be rescued.  😉

You’re able to sit down with any president in United States history. Who would you choose, what would you talk about, and would you rather have him over to your house or meet at the White House?

I’d like to talk to George Washington.  I think it would be fascinating to hear firsthand about the Revolutionary War and the creation of this country.  I would go to the White House.  Who knows, maybe some other cool people from that era would be there too! 

You can wish for one thing and one thing only, not world peace and no more wishes, what’s it gonna be? 

Lifelong, complete, and total health for my loved ones and me.  I’ve been sick, really sick, and I don’t ever want to be like that again.

Erin Albert is an author and fitness trainer.  Since she picked up Morris the Moose Goes to School at age four, she has been infatuated with the written word.  She went on to work as a grammar and writing tutor in college and is still teased by her family and friends for being a member of the “Grammar Police.”  In her free time, Erin enjoys acting, running, kickboxing, and, of course, reading and writing.

Connect with Erin below:

Erin on Twitter

Erin on Facebook

Erin’s Website

Erin on Goodreads

Meet the Author: Shannon A. Thompson

Today, we’re talking with the young adult author who has already written two books and a collection of poems. She’s smart, she’s talented, and she’s an English major- just like me. For that reason alone, I already like her 🙂 Enjoy getting to know an emerging star in the literary world.

You’re the author of two different novels and a collection of poems. Share a line/passage with us that the world needs to read and your favorite piece of work.

November Snow: I saw something I could never forget. I saw lifetimes of acknowledgement, fear, wisdom, questioning, and understanding in a child’s eye. It was the worst thing I would ever witness.

Minutes Before Sunset: One moment of true happiness was worth all the moments of pain.

My favorite piece of work: “The Stranger” by Albert Camus

You’ve been presented with the opportunity to be a best-selling author but can never write again or write forever but never have a bestseller. Which scenario sounds more tempting?

Write forever but never have a bestseller. Writing is what I do, and it’s an intrinsic part of my soul. It allows me to express myself and enjoy the world. I couldn’t stop writing even if I wanted to. I’m too passionate about it to give it up.

If you could live on a college campus and never leave or in a small town but be able to travel, which one would you choose?

Small town but be able to travel. I love traveling, and I have since I was very young. I’ve already moved over 15 times, so I’m used to a change of setting often. I’m not sure how to stay in one place for too long. I want to see the world.

 I feel ya! 🙂

Okay, how about England or France?

England unless it was like the movie “Midnight in Paris.” That would be my dream.

Who is your favorite 90’s band (I’m thinking Counting Crows, Blink 182, Hootie & the Blowfish)?

I generally listened to country in the 90’s like Shania Twain or Toby Keith, but in regards to bands…I really liked Red Hot Chili Peppers and the Goo Goo Dolls.

Yes, I love the Goo Goo Dolls!

And what about your favorite comedy on TV (I love The Office and Seinfeld)?

I don’t watch a lot of television, but I enjoy The Big Bang Theory. Sheldon is my favorite, and I’ve loved Penny since 8 Simple Rules.

Is there anything you’re currently working on?

I’m working on the editing process of “Seconds Before Sunrise” (Book 2 in a Timely Death series.) It’s scheduled to be published this fall, but I’m also writing more books. 

Who is your favorite author and if you could ask him/her one question, what would it be?

Right now I have an obsession with Cassandra Clare, but I’ve always loved Meg Cabot. If I could ask them anything, I would ask them what their favorite piece of writing they’d done was and why. I’d also love to find out how their imagination works. In regards to more adult writing, I love Kazuo Ishiguro. I really respect his way of revealing characters without ever saying what you’re thinking, and I’d love to ask him how he came up with such a graceful way of writing as if from an in-depth subconscious manner.

Lightning round:

Ocean or mountains? Depends on what ocean and what mountain.

Strawberries or blueberries? Strawberries

Skittles or M & M’s? Skittles

Happy or sad ending to a novel? Preferably happy—but sad can be the right one.

Beer or wine? I’m a wino.

Flying or driving? Driving (unless I’m literally flying like a superhero!)

Mystery or fantasy novel? Fantasy

You’re stranded on a desert island and you can take two things with you as well as two people. What and who are you bringing?

Objects: Journal and camera, so I can record my life in the hopes others will grow from it one day.

People: My dad and brother, because family means more to me than anything else.

You’re able to sit down with any president in United States history. Who would you choose, what would you talk about, and would you rather have him over to your house or meet at the White House?

Lincoln, because I find it interesting how he was so hated by the people from his time but loved from people of our time. I’d like to hear his thoughts on that, because of the basics of philosophy. And I’d rather meet up in the White House, because I’ve never been inside although I’ve seen it in person.

You can wish for one thing and one thing only (not world peace and no more wishes!), what’s it gonna be?

To be successful at inspiring others to follow their dreams and spread happiness through that. 

At sixteen, Shannon A Thompson became the young-adult author of “November Snow.” In 2012, Shannon became a published poet. Both of her published works are dedicated to lost loved ones, her mother and her roommate. Her latest novel, “Minutes Before Sunset,” released May 1st by AEC Stellar Publishing. The young-adult, paranormal romance is the first novel in A Timely Death series, and the second book is expected to release in Fall, 2013.

Currently, she’s finishing her senior year at the University of Kansas with a bachelor’s degree in English.

Shannon spends her free time writing, but she loves spending time with her father and brother. She also has one black cat named after her favorite actor, Humphrey Bogart.

Connect with Shannon below:

Shannon’s Website

Shannon on Facebook

Shannon on Twitter

Minutes Before Sunset links: Available now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords, Kobo, Diesel, Sony, and Apple.

Meet the Author: Tanya Taimanglo

Today, we’re sitting down with the talented, ambitious, and incredibly clever, Tanya Taimanglo. She recently released a romantic comedy and was kind enough to swing by for an interview. Sit down, take off your eyeglasses, and put them back on if you require them for reading.

 

You’re the author of SECRET SHOPPER. Share a line/passage with us that the world needs to read.

“I was too preoccupied with my family and being home, that Thomas was really a small blip in my thoughts. Well, okay he was more like streaming classical music that played softly in the background every minute of my day, but my heart and mind could only focus on dad now.” –Phoenix Lizama

You’ve been presented with the opportunity to be a best-selling author but can never write again or write forever but never have a bestseller. Which scenario sounds more tempting?

This is so easy. Best-selling author…just kidding. I would have to say I want to write forever, but not have a bestseller. Writing is as important to me as eating my multi-vitamin. And a one time bestseller is honorable, but equivalent to a one hit wonder, yes?

Ummm, I’d say yes 🙂

If you could live on a college campus and never leave or in a small town but be able to travel, which one would you choose?

I’m 39, college is a distant, boring memory. I’d rather be in a small town (which is my reality now and I love it) and be able to travel.

Okay, how about Scotland or Iceland?

I’d say Scotland. I’d like to learn more about kilts and sip tea in J.K. Rowling’s castle, talk shop with her perhaps and dance to some Celtic jams.

Who is your favorite 90’s band (I’m thinking Counting Crows, Blink 182, Hootie & the Blowfish)?

I have so many, but it’s the Stone Temple Pilots. In fact, it was a goal to see them in concert before debauchery and excess ended any of them. Happily I did that in 2010 in California.

And what about your favorite comedy on TV (I love The Office and Seinfeld)?

I’m very into New Girl with Zooey Deschanel. I love, love Schmidt and find myself sounding like him when I’m scolding my children, which is frightening. But I also dig Jake Johnson’s characterization of Nick. He represents the awkward kind of guy I find endearing.

Is there anything you’re currently working on?

Is there anything I’m NOT currently working on. Story lines invade my mind constantly. But, when I finally focus and get some quiet time (usually when the entire house is asleep), I write. Two projects are undergoing construction, one is a YA level novel I drafted during NaNoWriMo 2012, 50,000 words in 30 days deserves some follow through. It stems from my love, well obsession for Wonder Woman, entitled Wonder Summer. Another is a third of the way completed, another romance. Keeping the storyline under wraps for now.

Who is your favorite author and if you could ask him/her one question, what would it be?

Jane Green. She wrote Jemima J. It was the first time I felt connected to a character, one who was curvy, who wanted or thought there was only a good life for the thin. My question: Was her character, Jemima based on herself? (Mainly because Jane Green is a lovely, slim lady…okay, I really want to know if her thighs were ever fluffy enough to rub).

Lightning round:

Ocean or mountains? Oceans. I’m a Chamorro from Guam, a lovely tropical island-Google it folks. Always, oceans.

Peaches or plums? Peaches when they are firm, but sweet.

Skittles or M & M’s? Peanut M & M’s (I cheated there).

Happy or sad ending to a novel? Happy, which is why I haven’t read a Nicholas Sparks novel lately, he broke my heart one too many times, so I just watch his books on film.

Beer or wine? Sweet wine (Moscato d’asti) or none at all.

Flying or driving? Driving, until safe teleporting is invented.

Mystery or fantasy novel? I hate surprises, so fantasy.

You’re stranded on a desert island and you can take two things with you as well as two people. What and who are you bringing?

I would take my journal and a pen. Two people? Sorry husband, but I’d take my two kids, they still need their mommy.

You’re able to sit down with any president in United States history. Who would you choose, what would you talk about, and would you rather have him over to your house or meet at the White House?

Abraham Lincoln. He’s my 8 year old son’s favorite. We would talk about his family life and how it made him the man he is/was. I would rather be in the White House, but not the 1800’s version, the 2013 version.

You can wish for one thing and one thing only (not world peace and no more wishes)! What’s it gonna be?

Financial freedom.

Get Secret Shopper (A Romantic Comedy); available on Amazon.com-paperback or Kindle eBook

Connect with Tanya below:

Tanya’s Blog

Tanya on Facebook

Tanya on Twitter

 

Secret Shopper SUMMARY:

After moving to California from the tropical island of Guam, Phoenix Farmer’s marriage to her high school sweetheart, Bradley unravels. Forced to find a job, she retreats into the world of SECRET SHOPPING and thrives. As Phoenix discovers her true self without Bradley, she becomes an unwilling goddess with the help of her best friend Rachel. She snags the attention of Thomas-the creative, handsome and persistent target she has been assigned to evaluate. Can she hold off Thomas’s charm until her divorce becomes final? What will she decide when her father falls ill unexpectedly and pulls her back to Guam?

This romantic comedy will have you cheering for Phoenix as she rises from the ashes and becomes a shinier version of her former self.

 

Author BIO

Tanya Taimanglo is a Navy wife and mother of two. Originally from Guam, she’s freezing her buns off in Washington State, but adjusting well—now having an excuse to wear fancy scarves. A former high school English and Creative Writing Teacher, Tanya now enjoys writing up a storm for herself. She had a stint as a Secret Shopper for 4 years. Tanya loves Wonder Woman and Bruce Lee equally and hopes to attend San Diego Comic Con for the third time. Taimanglo also published a children’s book, Sirena: A Mermaid Legend From Guam and short stories, Attitude 13: A Daughter of Guam’s Collection of Short Stories.