Author Interview: Melina Druga

Today, I am interviewing author and freelance writer, Melina Druga. Melina has authored two business advice books, a book on WWI, and a true crime history book. The first book in her WWI historical fiction trilogy is available now, with books two and three coming October 12th 2020 and April 2021. Read her interview below to learn what drew her to write about the late 19th and early 20th centuries and which author she would love to meet.

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What is your favorite historical event?

I’m a huge lover of history, to the point that I consider myself an amateur historian, but I don’t have a favorite historical event.  That’s because I prefer to study how life was for ordinary people, and history books are full of famous people as well as political and military events.  I want to know what it was like in the quiet moments, in everyday life.  Since I write from a woman’s perspective, specifically, what was life like for women?  What opportunities did they have?  What barriers and challenges did they face?  What brought them joy or sadness?  How did they dress?  What did they do for fun?

With two business advice books under your belt, what is your favorite piece of advice for entrepreneurs?

Not so much advice, but a dose of reality.  No one will love your business the way you do, so don’t expect to rely on friends and family’s support.  You’ll work harder for yourself than for any employer, without pay for months or years, and still there is no guarantee of success.

Your novels are set in the late 19^TH and early 20^th centuries – what drew you to that era?

I am drawn to the period 1890-1920 because it is both familiar and antiquated.  Nearly every technology we have today was in existence then, just in an earlier form.  It’s also a time of great societal and political change.  That period also corresponds with my main character’s lifetime.  Hettie was born in 1892, and we last see her on New Year’s Day 1920.

Is writing your primary source of income? If so, do you have any advice for those seeking to make it their primary income?

Yes and no.  It is my only source of income, but we are a two income household, and my husband is the breadwinner.

If you could rewrite any moment in history, what would it be? 

That’s a tough one.  I’m sure you’ve heard of the butterfly effect.  People, for example, often say things like they would go back in time and kill Hitler.  If that happened, I wouldn’t exist because my grandparents meet when American citizens were evacuated from Europe during WWII.  They were born in different states and never would have met otherwise.  So, you can’t go back in time and rewrite just one event, because every event is connected to numerous other events.  That’s a power I don’t really want to have.

What has been your experience with freelance writing? Do you write for a particular industry? How do you find work?

I have been freelance writing since 2011, although I dabbled in it prior to that.  I’m a generalist as far as industry goes.  I specialize in blog posts, news stories and news briefs as well as newsletter articles.  I have found work via LinkedIn and responding to job ads.  Prospective clients are welcome to contact me directly as well.

What was the last book you read?

I’m currently in the process of reading a book on marketing.

How have you been spending quarantine?

Writing.  My career is one of the few things I have control over right now, so I’ve been pouring all my available time into it.  I put in about a seven hour day in the morning/afternoon doing client work and fiction.  Then around 9 p.m., I start writing again and put in another five to seven hours.  I’m also taking the time to learn more about the paid marketing options that are available to me.  And I’m launching the second novel in my WWI Trilogy in October, and the third book in April.

What is one thing you would like to do, but have never done?

There are so many places I’d love to travel to.  I’ve never been farther west than Nashville, and I’ve never been out of North America.

If you could receive advice from any author (living or dead,) who would it be and what would you ask them?

My favorite author is Edith Wharton, and I would really like to have a conversation with her.  I don’t think I would ask her about writing, though.  She wrote a book on the subject, so I already know her views.  She lived through the Gilded Age, so I’d love to pick her brain about what the era was like.  She’d be the best historical research source ever.

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For more information on Melina’s work, check out her social media at the links below and don’t forget to support her by purchasing her works.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Melina-Druga/e/B00FSFCJOW
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/MelinaDruga
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melinadruga/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MelinaDruga
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDl0TprzCEr0cgjYI-dbymw?view_as=subscriber
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/MelinaDruga/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MelinaDruga

Author Interview: P.L. Tavormina

Today, I am interviewing research scientist, climate change activist, and novelist, P.L. Tavormina. Among many things, she is passionate about education, the environment, and climate change. Read her interview below to learn more about this remarkable researcher as well as her solution to climate change and the meaning of life.

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WHAT, IF ANY, CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE WHEN SWITCHING FROM NON-FICTION TO FICTION?

First, thanks for the opportunity. I love talking with other writers and thinking through the reasons why we’re doing this crazy thing of writing.

My nonfiction was technical. Journal articles about medical projects, Earth science, basic academic research. With technical writing, you report the facts and fit them into what’s already known. 

A lot of the basic approach actually carries over to fiction. You know, like writing is actually work, whether its nonfiction or fiction. And a piece needs to make sense, redrafting might be needed to bring in clarity or punch up something that’s weak. Independent feedback helps. Those parts carried over from my years writing nonfiction.

The challenge of fiction writing has been to add feelings. A good novel makes us laugh or cry or shake our fist at the world. Using words emotionally has been my biggest challenge. I’ve loved grappling with it.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR WRITING PROCESS? DO YOU PLOT, PANTS, OR “PLANTS”?

So, stories have a structure to them, a journey the characters follow, determined by events and choices. A lot of great writers can write ‘by the seat of their pants’ and end up with a beautiful piece. Not me. If I try to pants a story I end up with characters running around doing a lot of nonsensical things.

I plot. I use outlines and spreadsheets and beat sheets … I use math. 

But after I plot the outline and write a first draft, I rewrite the story. In this draft I let the characters breathe and play. I ask them to make choices, and I ask them to surprise me. Sometimes key plot points gwt changed. In a sense, I bring in a little pantsing. Does that make me a plantser? I think I’m a plotter.

WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF BEING AN AUTHOR?

There’s so much to enjoy—meeting writers, creating stories, using social media and sharing ideas. I suppose one challenge is that it takes a long time to write a story. A short story can take me six months. A novel takes years, for me. I suppose a second challenge is that in the trade publishing world, finding representation is a long shot. The trade path is narrow, but we’re fortunate to live in a time where other paths exist.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO READ?

I love stories where I fall into the protagonist’s head on page one. My favorite genres are contemporary fiction, science fiction and historical fiction, but for a book to grab me, I need to fall into the protagonist’s world right away. 

I’m re-reading some of Anne Rice’s vampire books. Her stories are one example of the writing I mean. She’s great at showing what the characters are going through, from deep within their viewpoint. Matt Haig writes in very different style, but it’s the same effect—in both cases I’m ‘in’ the story right away. 

DO YOU HAVE PASSIONS OUTSIDE OF WRITING?

Education. Raising kind children. The environment. Helping people who are in a bad place. I think everyone wonders why we’re here, the meaning of life, and to me it’s about growing, every year. By caring for people and the world around us we give our lives meaning. And these additional passions also bring peace, because we’re helping others. 

OUT OF THE VARIOUS TOPICS YOU HAVE RESEARCHED, WHICH IS YOUR FAVORITE?

Biodiversity, baby. Did you know there are deep-sea creatures that can detect a single photon of light? There are fish that change from female to male. There’s a nautilus that basically has a detachable penis (it detaches and swims after the females. I kid you not.). There’s a fungus in Michigan as old as Socrates weighing more than four hundred tons. There are insects that freeze solid and then start crawling around again when they thaw. 

And don’t even get me started on symbiotic relationships. Those are wild.

HOW HAVE YOU BEEN SPENDING QUARANTINE?

I’ve been protesting climate change through letters to our representatives and newspapers and through virtual protests. One of the thin silver linings of 2020 is that global emissions are down eight percent over 2019. It’s the largest drop in emissions in history. We have an opportunity to shift onto green energy, which will be crucial to meet the 2030 targets.

I’ve also been writing. In addition to getting the sequel to Aerovoyant into decent shape this year, I’ve contributed a short story to an anthology. It’s called Writers in Lockdown, on Amazon.

And I’ve been gardening and cooking. We had garden pesto last night, yum. 

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IS THE SOLUTION TO CLIMATE CHANGE?

We all care about this now, which is such a positive change from thirty years ago. Most people understand the climate threat—and the solution stems from that. People understand the problem and do what they can to help. Whether that means driving a more fuel-efficient car or putting better insulation on their house or choosing adoption over reproduction. There are so many ways to fight climate change, and in the end, the solution boils down to simple math. We must sink more carbon than we emit. That’s it. That means protecting our carbon sinks—forests and oceans—and burning way less carbon that’s stored in the ground. No more fossil fuels. None. That carbon is sunk. Keep it sunk.

Some people want a technological solution to pull CO2 out of the air, because that would let us continue burning fuel. There are ideas about it, like ocean fertilization, geoengineering the atmosphere, artificial trees. Those are great to explore and develop, but we mustn’t allow an idea to be an excuse to burn more oil. We’ve been tossing around technological fixes for a long time, and either they come with their own risk, like the downstream effects of ocean fertilization, or they’re not technologically feasible. 

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU WOULD LIKE TO DO, BUT HAVE NEVER DONE?

I’d love to see remote places like Antarctica, the Galapagos, parts of Africa. I’d love to see some of the beautiful, unique animals that live in isolated regions, like platypuses and penguins. It won’t happen, because I’ve given up air travel, but if they make a solar airplane it could happen, I guess. ☺ I love this planet.

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For more information on P.L. Tavormina’s work, check out her social media at the links below and don’t forget to support her by purchasing her works.

Novel: https://www.amazon.com/Aerovoyant-Industrial-Age-P-L-Tavormina-ebook/dp/B081X4T51G/

Website: https://pltavormina.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pltavormina/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/pltavormina?lang=en

Author Interview: Shivon Gunalan

Today, I am interviewing debut author and woman-empowerer, Shivon Gunalan. Shivon’s passion is helping women find their voice and reach their full potential. Her journey inspired her to write “A Divine Connection,” which is available now. Read Shivon’s interview to learn more about her inspiration and also her advice for surviving quarantine.

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WHAT MAKES YOU GET OUT OF BED IN THE MORNING?

The possibility of adventure, and what good things lie await for me to receive.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BEGIN WRITING? 

I have always loved to write. The plot for my divine connection started as a dream and I wanted readers to have a love story that offers hope.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR WRITING PROCESS? DO YOU PLOT, PANTS, OR “PLANTS”?

I would describe it as “pants”. I usually have an idea, and I build on that by introducing the right characters into the story.  

wERE THERE ANY EVENTS SURROUNDING YOUR INSPIRATION FOR “a dIVINE cONNECTION?”

It was during lockdown and a single woman, I was trying to meet new ppl. But I felt so drawn to a story in the bible that created chance encounters. That was my inspiration.

IS WRITING YOUR PRIMARY INCOME, OR DO YOU HAVE ANOTHER CAREER?

Writing is for passion. I have a full time job.

dO you have passions outside of writing?

Yes. I am a strong advocate of empowering women and creating a new generation leaders. I blog and do youtube interviews in line to this.

What do you like to read?

I love to read leadership and motivational books.

What is the best advice you received?

You can go as high as you want if you dare to dream big.

Do you have any advice for coping with COVID/quarantine?

Use the time wisely to follow your passion. Cherish the people you love.

If you could receive an answer to one question, what would that question be?

How have I impacted your life?

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For more information on Shivon’s work, check out her social media at the links below and don’t forget to support her by purchasing her works.

Shivon’s Novel: https://amazon.com/Divine-Connection-hearts-connected-power-ebook/dp/B08CR8JJQ5/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=shivon+gunalan&qid=1596800775&sr=8-1

Shivon’s Website: https://shivongunalan.com/

Shivon’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShivonGunalan/

Shivon’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivongunalan/

Shivon’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShivonAaria

Shivon’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8AWtbgLR8BAGIqHPZVob3A?view_as=subscriber

Author Interview: Winnie Frolik

Today, I am interviewing debut author, Winnie Frolik. With a love for animals, nature, and baking, Winnie has always been drawn to write on the side no matter her occupation. Read her interview below to learn more about her current works in progress and what makes a good writer.

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What inspired you to begin writing?

I’ve been writing for most of my life.  My interest in telling stories dates back to elementary school, and I majored in Creative Writing and English Literature at the University of Pittsburgh.  Over the years, I’ve pursued many types of employment; non-profit work, baking, pet care but I’ve always continued to write on the side.

Were there any authors or novels that influenced Sarah Crow?

I consciously wrote Sarah Crow in the style of books by Jane Austen, the Bronte sisters, George Eliot, and other noteworthy works by 19th century British authors.  Though none of them so far as I know tackled self-mutilation.

What are you currently working on?

I’m currently tackling a murder mystery set in England in 1936 with the backdrop of the coming war.  My main heroine is a District Nurse who is also a closeted lesbian and the main detective is a former German-Jewish policeman now trying to eke out a living in England as a P.I. I’ve also just started an urban fantasy about a librarian with lupus who comes into possession of a Book of Magic and begins to study witchcraft.  But of course people want the book too.

What do you believe makes a good writer?

There are many, many things that go into being a good writer.  Description, love of books, but one underrated quality is persistence.  It takes a lot of trial and effort to get any good. Sure Charles Dickens wrote the Pickwick Papers as a young man and went straight into super stardom but Dickens was a genius and geniuses are not like the rest of us.  It takes a great deal of practice.  You also have to learn to accept constructive criticism or you’ll never learn to be any better.  And of course it doesn’t hurt to have a cat.

What was the publication process like for you?

Again many, MANY years of learning to take rejection, until I happened to show my manuscript to an editor it clicked with.  Since then though, I couldn’t be happier since that particular editor has been a treasure and I really love the treatment I’ve received so far from One Idea Press.

Do you have passions outside of writing?

I enjoy hiking, I love animals, and I tend to lean liberal in my politics.  Because of Covid-19, I realize now more than ever how much I cherish my local library which I truly miss. I’m into a fair amount of Geek Culture from superhero movies, to Syfy network, British murder tv series, and baking shows.  I’m also known to binge watch old seasons of Face Off.  

What is your favorite historical event?

Woman gaining the vote and the election of Barack Obama both rank pretty highly.  As do the creation of national parks and on a local level the building of Carnegie Main Library.

Do you prefer cats or dogs?

Don’t get me wrong-I really like dogs.  But I’m spiritually bonded to cats.

If you could seek advice from any author (living or dead,) who would it be and what would you ask them?

I’d love advice from someone like Catherynne Valente, Naomi Novik, Octavia Butler, or Jessica Townsend on how I could become more creative and build such fantastic worlds as they do.  Or perhaps learn from Stephen King how to scare the wits out of people. Or best of all Agatha Christies advice on how to plot a whodunit.

If time and money weren’t a factor, what would you be doing?

If time, money, and the coronavirus weren’t factors I’d love to travel more and have all kinds of adventures.  

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For more information on Winnie’s work, check out the links below and don’t forget to support her by purchasing her works.

https://www.womanaroundtown.com/author/wfrolik/
Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/books/sarah-crow/9781944134181
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sarah-Crow-Winnefred-Frolik/dp/1944134182/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=sarah+crow&qid=1595173515&sr=8-2
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sarah-crow-winnefred-frolik/1134816146?ean=9781944134181

If you are an author, or have an interesting story, please reach out to me so we can connect!

Author Interview: Ann Doerwald

Today, I am interviewing debut author and photographer, Ann Doerwald. Ann is the author of the short story, “The Opening of the Paranormal Door.” Read Ann’s interview below to discover her experience with self-publishing, as well as her favorite ghost stories.

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WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BEGIN WRITING? 

I have always enjoyed writing since I was younger. Making up either little comics or short stories, I believe it was in grade 6 we got to write a short novel in calls draw the pictures and all then they sent it off to get printed. That was my first taste, which was amazing for such a younger age. As I grew I would say the authors that inspired me would be : Ellen Hopkins, Stephen King, Cathy Glass.

What made you choose the self-publishing route? Were there any challenges with that?

I choose the self-publishing route because I honestly thought my manuscript was to short for traditional route. It was also more appealing to with payments, also a few authors novels I had read like ( my mothers secret) had self published threw iuniverse too. Having read some novel that also made it more appealing not to mention they had a deal happening as well where you also got a website. The challenges with it was just mainly on my end. Having anxiety doing calls was not the easiest at times, though I am glad that the team I had was good with calling.

How would you describe your writing process? Do you plot, pants, or “plants”?

The process very messy. I read and jotted down many different way to plot out the novel, in the end I just wrote the first draft as if it was just me reading it. Then going and placing that over a outline one of the many I keep jumping from. I read the novel the writers little helper. Which I got many good point from for my charatrater and scenes.

Were there any events surrounding your inspiration for The Opening of the Paranormal Door?

I Have always loved ghost and the paranormal every since I was younger. Often watching Canada most Haunted with my grandmother and uncle. I have had some strange events happen out of the corner of my eye, little tidbits I did add into the novel. Also a lot of family vacations with my cousin whom I was close to growing up.

What is your favorite ghost story? 

My favourite ghost story, Annabell I would have to say. Also the Warrens family. Anything that’s with them.

Is writing your primary source of income, or do you hold another position?

I am wanting writing to be my main income, right now its supplant income. I was working in kitchens before. Quite the change of passions.

Do you have passions outside of writing?

Ah yes I do. I have some artwork I do like painting. I have a photography side business as well that I just started going. Natalie Ann Photography. I enjoy being outside, reading or yoga.

If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

One food, that’s actually hard to choose. I would have to say either oranges or a lasagna.

How have you been spending quarantine?

I have been working on a second novel, more meditation, I am now in the process of also moving so that should be a interesting time to navigate. Doing more self discovery.

What advice would you give your younger self?

That pain is permeant, you will draw strength from those whom bully you. You will accomplish your goals and it may not be how you planed to reach that goal. That life is about the memories you make just enjoy the journey and not stress about the destination.

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For more information on Ann’s work, check out her social media at the links below and don’t forget to support her by purchasing her works.

Ann’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anndoerwald/
Ann’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ann-Doerwald-Author-102731884833990/
Ann’s Website: https://www.anndoerwald.com
Ann’s Short Story: Amazon

If you are an author, or have an interesting story, please reach out to me so we can connect!

Author Interview: David Field

Today, I am interviewing author David Field. With a passion for writing and history, David is the author of fifteen published novels. Read David’s interview below to learn more about his thoughts on living in Australia and which event in history he would rewrite.

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What inspired you to begin writing?

The desire to tell the stories that kept popping into my head ever since the age of 12, and my deep love of history.

What influenced your move from England to Australia?

A holiday, in which the surf, the BBQs and the climate told me that there was a better life than that in the UK under Margaret Thatcher.

In three words, how would you describe Australia?

Dramatic, tolerant, welcoming

How has your career as a criminal lawyer affected your approach to writing? Do you plot, pants, or “plants”?

Very little. With historical novels, the outline plot is already there. I just put the characters back where they belong, then let them play in my head.

Which of your fifteen published books is your favorite?

‘The Queen in Waiting’. I was able to put the scared, vulnerable young Elizabeth back under the jealous scrutiny of her twisted half sister Mary and see how she might have reacted.

How do you maintain motivation while writing, especially after so many books?

This is never a problem. The urge to write is almost addictive, even in many cases without any guarantee that the finished work will be published.

If you could have lunch with one of your characters, who would that be and why?

Without a doubt, Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, the central character in my novel ‘The King’s Commoner’. A man with an almost freakish intellectual ability and a modicum of piety, but proud, vainglorious, lustful and gluttenous. He rose to the greatest heights through his ability, then fell dramatically when he backed the wrong horse, and his many enemies lay in wait. He was a microcosm of all that was wrong with the Church of Rome immediately before the Reformation.

Do you have passions outside of writing?

Music. I’m the President of our local jazz club, and I have a lifelong love of country music.

What was the last book you read?

‘Bring Up the Bodies’, by Hilary Mantel. For the fourth time.

If you could rewrite one moment in history, what would that be?

The fall of Cardinal Wolsey, and his obscure burial in Leicester Abbey with no marker as to the location of his grave. If Richard 111 was worthy of being dug up and re-buried, then so was Thomas Wolsey.

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For more information on David’s work, check out his social media at the links below and don’t forget to support him by purchasing his works.

David’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidfi32735940?lang=en
David’s Website: https://davidfieldauthor.com/
David’s Works: https://www.amazon.com/David-Field/e/B078HJSLVF/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

Author Interview: Tony DiGerolamo

Today, I am interviewing author, screenwriter, comic book writer, and more…Tony DiGerolamo. His credits include Politically Incorrect, Space Ghost: Coast to Coast, The Simpsons comic books, and Comedy Central’s Daily Show website. Read Tony’s interview below to learn his opinion on the current comedic scene and his advice for making writing your primary income.

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What inspired you to begin writing? 

In the first grade, the school offered short story contest.  The prize was a free McDonald’s hamburger.  I won so many times, the school asked me to stop entering so some of the other kids could win.

How did you obtain the writing gigs you mentioned?

Through friends I had gone to school with or knew through the improv scene.  Then later, because of my credits and just applying at the right time.

Who is your favorite person to collaborate with?

Col-lab-or-ate?  What is this word?  Actually, Christian Beranek is probably the only other writer I seriously collaborate with.

Who would you like to collaborate with?

Conan O’Brien, because I think he’d be fun to work with.

How does your writing process change, if at all, based on the format you are writing? (i.e. screenwriting versus novellas.)

Not much really.  I started with screenplays and still use the three act structure for almost everything.  My novellas are very dialogue driven.  I don’t really like to add too much description.  Slows everything down.  And, quite frankly, I’d rather picture the characters in my head my own way.  But with the novellas, I force myself to write more description.  Lots of times, I go back and add it because I realize it’s too sparse.  For screenplays, it depends on who I’m writing them for.  These days, I don’t do full length spec scripts.  They’re kind of a waste of time.

Is writing your primary source of income? If so, do you have any advice for those seeking to make it their primary income?

Mostly.  The virus derailed me somewhat.  Currently in a rebuilding mode.

My advice, land a job where you don’t have to pay attention and you can write while you do it.  Like security guard or something.

What do you like to read?

These days, not much.  Too busy.  I’ve been stuck on chapter five of the Gulag Archipelago.  Normally, I read political stuff on the Internet so I can complain about it on my YouTube Channel.

What is your favorite type of humor?

I like it all with few exceptions.  The Meta stuff isn’t all that great and these days, “comedians” have turned into serious news casters.  Usually if you’re not right on the border of pissing people off, you’re not very funny.  Too many of the comics are playing it safe now, with some exceptions.  Comedy has also become way too self-important.  People need to laugh, Goddammit.  If I wanted to be bored by your woke politics, I’d read the comments on the Twitter feed.

It’s time for comedy to be dangerous again.  That time is coming soon…

If given a clean slate, endless money, and no restrictions, what would you do and why?

Clean slate?  WTF do you think I did?!  Let’s see, first go on vacation in Vegas for a few weeks.  Then I’d probably turn Wokeistan into a movie because it’s pretty damned funny.  Then I’d start shooting the Pineys TV series, which I would also star in.  Which would both be fun and hilarious.

If you were to describe yourself in three words, what would those be?

Persistently Caffeinated Contrarian

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For more information on Tony’s work, check out his social media at the links below and don’t forget to support him by purchasing his works

The Webcomic Factory
Super Frat
YouTube Channel
Bitchute Channel
Parler
Gab
Minds

If you are an author, or have an interesting story, please reach out to me so we can connect!

Author Interview: Kerat Jhaj

Today, I am interviewing author, singer, and songwriter, Kerat Jhaj. Kerat has been singing and writing songs for much of her life and more recently decided to dabble in fiction. Her debut novel, Himagus, is out today, so be sure to purchase your copy.

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WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BEGIN WRITING? 

I was so young when I started singing and whenever I’d look up for any of my idols, they’d be both, singers and songwriters. So I just assumed to become a singer one has to write their own songs. I was a toddler and my songs were embarrassing but that was a start.

And for fiction, I always came up with stories but never wrote them till, in my English class, our teacher made us write in our journal daily that I decided to let my imagination bleed on paper.

What does your songwriting process look like? Do you write lyrics or melodies first?

Usually, something hits me; an idea, thought or maybe my own emotions and what I’m going through and I write my lyrics and do a lot of demo versions to get the melody and then I harmonize my voice with the company of a piano.

Have you recorded any of your songs?

No, not yet. At the moment I rather finish school before putting out any music.

Where did the title Himagus come from?

To pick a title “Himagus” was a scary choice. Since it can make people think the book might be in a different language or an unknown word may fail to catch there interest. But I couldn’t imagine naming it anything else! “Himagus” is the name of the planet whose civilization took over Earth. A big deal of the book is about Himagus and Himagusians and it also deeply affects the protagonist.

What was the inspiration behind Himagus?

I had gotten a prompt “the end of the world” and wrote a short story along those lines. 

(Basically a girl wakes up to find everyone dead. And as she assumes the monster is about to kill her too, she opens her eyes, only to find a message stating he won’t kill her).

And something Inside me wanted to continue the story. I wasn’t sure how to continue writing it, since, the whole world had already ended. But two weeks later, an idea struck me and here we are.

What do you like to read?

Mostly fiction. I try to avoid romance and love reading humor and horror.

Do you prefer vague or concrete endings?

If it’s series, then there has to be something the reader should still be hanging on to, a missing piece so for that I like vague ending. But stand alones, I prefer with concrete endings.

If you could save two songs before music was erased, which two would you save?

Twist and Shout by beetles and Funny by Tori Kelly.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan on continuing my studies to become a radiation therapists, write more books and make better quality YouTube content.

How do you balance your time between writing, songwriting, and music?

I don’t ever really have to choose. If an inspiration comes to me I’ll write a song and If I’m working on a manuscript I’ll dedicate at least half an hour to work on it.

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For more information on Kerat’s work, check out her social media at the links below and don’t forget to support her by purchasing her works.

Pre-Order Himagus: Amazon
Kerat’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/selfportraitrani/
Kerat’s Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/Kerat68087228
Kerat’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ4RA91QXOlUBRmocI_klDg

If you are an author, or have an interesting story, please reach out to me so we can connect!

Author Interview: Deepti Sharma

This week, I am interviewing author Dr. Deepti Sharma. Deepti has a tremendous love for both literature and ecology. She has written a short-story collection as well as the English translation for Chandrakanta. Read her interview below to gain insight into the work involved with translating a novel and to learn more about this remarkable author.

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What do you hold your doctorate in?

In a rather unusual subject – Biodiversity. I am an ecologist by training and profession. Yep, a complete outsider in the world of literature!

What inspired you to begin writing?

I had always been an avid reader and a darling of my English teachers at school but had never written anything beyond the curriculum answers and essays. The love for reading continued throughout my higher education, though. It was while I was pursuing my PhD that I began to have relatively more time on my hands. Those were the days when Orkut was the other name of social networking, and I got immensely absorbed in literary discussions in various groups. I began blogging during that time, too, and while my blog didn’t go viral in any sense of the word, I was blessed with a few readers/critics who were fond of reading what I wrote, and are my friends till date. I’d attribute my initiation into writing to these friends of mine.

How do you begin translating a novel? What is your process?

I don’t really have a process as such. I had read Chandrakanta as a child, after watching the Doordarshan serial based on it. Really, the makers of that serial had done little justice to Khatri’s plot and after reading the book, I felt cheated. The seeds of the desire to present the real Chandrakanta to a larger audience were sown into me at that time. I guess that’s the first step towards initiating a translation exercise – feeling passionately that no reader should miss out on this wonderful book. 

Were there any challenges you faced with translating?

Translation is a humongous challenge – I faced it at two levels.

First, each language has its own nuances, its own special connotations, its own idioms, in fact an entire baggage of the heritage behind it. So many words simply refuse to get translated because there is no corresponding synonym for them in the other language. So many dialogues and actions can remain unintelligible to the other language readers because they are deeply rooted in the culture of the original. I have always felt it when reading Hindi subtexts of English movies or vice versa. And I’m afraid there is no way out of this – let’s accept it, there is a loss during translation.

Second, no matter how much you love a story, ultimately it is not your story. It belongs firmly to another author and it is not possible that you’d agree with every dialog, every plot point, every character arc. And yet, when translating, you cannot twist these critical aspects to suit your liking. This faintest of discomfitures, emanating from even the slightest of disagreements can reflect in your writing. Again, I feel this is an unavoidable limitation of a translated work.    

What inspired you to write a short story collection?

The stories in the present collection – titled ‘Extremely…’ were written over a period of 4-5 years, starting around 2007-2008. All the stories have had roots in my own experiences and my own thought processes, with plenty of imagination to add the spice.

As a writer of many genres, do you have a favorite?

I’d say suspense thrillers, but those on slow burners, with dollops of human psychological elements.

What do you do to stay motivated?

My passion for writing, and my husband, who always helps me stay positive.

Do you have passions outside of writing?

I am crazy about ecology – luckily it is also my bread and butter. Put me anywhere amidst nature and I’ll count myself as blessed. So, trekking, travelling, camping, and meeting people from varied cultural backgrounds automatically become my favourite activities. My trekking experiences have come handy while writing my stories, too.

What is the best piece of writing advice you received?

It’ll have to be the golden rule of ‘show-don’t-tell.’ Clichéd, but vastly useful.

How have you been spending quarantine? 

Writing, writing and writing – to the extent that I have reduced my reading time and have not looked at a TV screen for like weeks! I have two other books in the pipeline – one a collection of stories for children aged 5-8, and the other an out-an-out murder mystery. The murder mystery titled ‘Cold Green Hate’ is likely to hit the markets as an e-book within a month’s time and I am pretty excited about it.

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For more information on Deepti’s work, check out her social media at the links below and don’t forget to support her by purchasing her works. Her murder mystery, Cold Green Hate is coming out next month, so be sure to follow her to get the latest update on that release.

Deepti’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deepti.l.sharma.9 

Deepti’s Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18816005.Deepti_Sharma

Deepti’s Twitter: @DeeptiLSharma

Deepti’s Work:

If you are an author, or have an interesting story, please reach out to me so we can connect!

Author Interview: Latesha Kellam

Today, I am interviewing debut author, Latesha Kellam. With a passion for helping others, Latesha aspires to help people realize they don’t need to accept unhealthy behavior in a relationship, the very idea her romance novel, The Match Disaster, is centered around. Read Latesha’s interview below to learn more about her inspiration as well as what pair of shoes she would be.

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What inspired you to write The Match Disaster?

I have been through a lot of things in my life. I couldn’t figure out why I was having such bad luck in the love department. I realized that my life experiences were meant to help others. I wrote The Match Disaster after a terrible break-up. I decided to use that experience as inspiration to write this book to help others see that they don’t have to accept unhealthy behavior in a relationship.

Did you publish traditionally or independently?

I published this book independently.

What challenges did you face with publishing?

Because I published independently, I didn’t experience any issues with publishing.

What is your writing process like? Do you plot, pants, or “plants”?

My writing process is less structured. I don’t do much plotting before I start writing. I found I do my best writing by just writing the story as it comes to me.

How have you been spending quarantine? 

I have been spending a lot of time working on my next book while I have been in quarantine. I am working on a trilogy and it is going really well.

If you were a pair of shoes, which ones would you be and why?

I would be a pair of 6 inch heels. As a pair of 6 inches, I know that whomever would be wearing me would feel confident about themselves and that would make me feel good.

What would you be doing if time and money weren’t a factor?

I would be doing a lot of traveling to different countries. I like to experience many different cultures.

What is the best piece of advice you ever heard?

Stay true to yourself, and follow your dreams.

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For more information on Latesha’s work, check out her social media at the links below and don’t forget to support her by purchasing her works.

Latesha’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/LateshaKellam
Latesha’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ms_lkellam/?hl=en
Latesha’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellamlatesha
Latesha’s Website: https://bestbooksbylateshakellam.com/blog/

Latesha’s Work:
https://www.amazon.com/Match-Disaster-Latesha-Kellam-ebook/dp/B08B5KT16Z/
https://www.amazon.com/Match-Disaster-Latesha-Kellam/dp/1678131512/

If you are an author, or have an interesting story, please reach out to me so we can connect!