Promotional Interview with Karen Leland - Author of Time Management in an Instant: 60 Ways to Make the Most of Your Day (Special Event July 20--24th)

Tell us the book title and your author name.

Time Management In An Instant: 60 Ways to Make the Most of Your Day

Karen Leland and Keith Bailey

What inspired the book?

After years of leading time management classes we decided it was time to try and capture the information and put in in a place where people who could not come to our live courses could find it.

What makes this book special to you?

In order to update the book, Keith and I did a ton of research on the leading edge of what is happening in the field of time management. This book is special to me, because of that research and because it's a topic very close to my own heart!

What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?

I think this is a must ready because it covers some of the most critical time issues we face today such as multitasking, procrastination, lack of focus etc... The book has a great deal of practical information that can help people solve everyday time issues.

What people NEED to read this book and WHY?

Same answer as above.

What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?

Well, I'm embarrassed to say that a clean and organized desk and work area is one of the things that defiantly helps spark my creativity. This might explain why I am such a time management geek. But also, space to reflect. I find that if I book every moment of every day, I don't have the space I need to be creative.

What has been the biggest stumbling block in your writing? Can you share some tips to help others get past similar problems?

By far the biggest stumbling block is just finding the time to sit down and do it! Once I get going I'm into it and thing flow, but finding that starring time can be a bear. What I have started to do is schd. an hour first thing in the morning just for writing.

What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?

Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?

I belted out 'Oh What a Beautiful Morning' form the musical Oklahoma at a book signing, on a dare.

NON FICTION - Why are you the BEST person to write this book? What in your background or in your research makes you qualified to do justice to this topic?

I've been leading time management workshops for close to 25 years. During that time I've studied the topic, spoken about it to countless conferences around the globe and written about for a wide variety of magazines and newspapers. But more than any of that, I've been working with my own time management habits for 40 plus years. I've tried all of this out on myself to see what works and doesn't.

NON FICTION - If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "Its the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)

I would ask the person where in their life they could use more specific support to fight distraction and find their focus. What goals are they having trouble achieving? Could they use more of a feeling of accomplishment at the end of the day? Would they like to knock off work an hour earlier a few days a week or take a real vacation? The information in the book, could contribute to all of that.

NON FICTION - Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers.

A recent study by the Families and Work Institute found that more than 50 percent of those surveyed said they are either handling too many tasks at the same time or are frequently interrupted during the workday—or both. I'm passionate about finding ways to overcome this condition, and create a balanced.

NON FICTION Is there a way to tie your book topic to current events? If so, tell us about how you could do that. I have a blog to feature information and examples about tying books into current events that might be a good place for you to promote your book.

If there's anything else you would like to share, this is the time and place.

Thank you for visiting with me and in closing, give us your website address and a link to order your book.

Karen Leland - Bestselling author of Time Management In An Instant: 60 Ways to Make the Most of Your Day

Buy a copy of Time Management In An Instant the week of July 20th and receive a free license to view the Essential Email online course. To buy the book and claim your bonus, or just to buy the book go to: http://www.quality-service.com/timemanagementinaninstant

Karen Leland and Keith Bailey are the bestselling authors of six books including Time Management In An Instant: 60 Ways to Make the Most of Your Day. They are the co-founders of Sterling Consulting Group, which helps organizations and individuals learn how to fight distraction and find their focus in a wired world. For more information please contact: kleland@scgtraining.comTell us the book title and your author name.

Time Management In An Instant: 60 Ways to Make the Most of Your Day

Karen Leland and Keith Bailey

What inspired the book?

After years of leading time management classes we decided it was time to try and capture the information and put in in a place where people who could not come to our live courses could find it.

What makes this book special to you?

In order to update the book, Keith and I did a ton of research on the leading edge of what is happening in the field of time management. This book is special to me, because of that research and because it's a topic very close to my own heart!

What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?

I think this is a must ready because it covers some of the most critical time issues we face today such as multitasking, procrastination, lack of focus etc... The book has a great deal of practical information that can help people solve everyday time issues.

What people NEED to read this book and WHY?

Same answer as above.

What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?

Well, I'm embarrassed to say that a clean and organized desk and work area is one of the things that defiantly helps spark my creativity. This might explain why I am such a time management geek. But also, space to reflect. I find that if I book every moment of every day, I don't have the space I need to be creative.

What has been the biggest stumbling block in your writing? Can you share some tips to help others get past similar problems?

By far the biggest stumbling block is just finding the time to sit down and do it! Once I get going I'm into it and thing flow, but finding that starring time can be a bear. What I have started to do is schd. an hour first thing in the morning just for writing.

What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?

Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?

I belted out 'Oh What a Beautiful Morning' form the musical Oklahoma at a book signing, on a dare.

NON FICTION - Why are you the BEST person to write this book? What in your background or in your research makes you qualified to do justice to this topic?

I've been leading time management workshops for close to 25 years. During that time I've studied the topic, spoken about it to countless conferences around the globe and written about for a wide variety of magazines and newspapers. But more than any of that, I've been working with my own time management habits for 40 plus years. I've tried all of this out on myself to see what works and doesn't.

NON FICTION - If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "Its the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)

I would ask the person where in their life they could use more specific support to fight distraction and find their focus. What goals are they having trouble achieving? Could they use more of a feeling of accomplishment at the end of the day? Would they like to knock off work an hour earlier a few days a week or take a real vacation? The information in the book, could contribute to all of that.

NON FICTION - Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers.

A recent study by the Families and Work Institute found that more than 50 percent of those surveyed said they are either handling too many tasks at the same time or are frequently interrupted during the workday—or both. I'm passionate about finding ways to overcome this condition, and create a balanced.

NON FICTION Is there a way to tie your book topic to current events? If so, tell us about how you could do that. I have a blog to feature information and examples about tying books into current events that might be a good place for you to promote your book.

If there's anything else you would like to share, this is the time and place.

Thank you for visiting with me and in closing, give us your website address and a link to order your book.

Karen Leland - Bestselling author of Time Management In An Instant: 60 Ways to Make the Most of Your Day

SPECIAL OFFER FOR BLOG TOUR VISITORS ONLY THE WEEK OF JULY 20th

Buy a copy of Time Management In An Instant the week of July 20th and receive a free license to view the Essential Email online course. To buy the book and claim your bonus, or just to buy the book go to: http://www.quality-service.com/timemanagementinaninstant

Karen Leland and Keith Bailey are the bestselling authors of six books including Time Management In An Instant: 60 Ways to Make the Most of Your Day. They are the co-founders of Sterling Consulting Group, which helps organizations and individuals learn how to fight distraction and find their focus in a wired world. For more information please contact: kleland@scgtraining.com

Start with the Facts with Bryn Colvin

How did you get interested in the topic that’s featured in your book?
Seth Lakeman’s song ‘The White Hare’ drew me into looking at west country hare mythology, and the novel grew out of that.


Tell us a bit about your background. What have you done in the past that relates to your book and that topic?
Much of what happens in this story, I have no personal experience of, for which I am deeply grateful. The magical/shamanic aspects are rooted in my own beliefs and experiences though.

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in your topic?
Check out Seth Lakeman, invest in a Druid Animal Oracle set, and keep reading the history books!

What do you see as the benefit to participating in groups and organizations? My first thought would be networking opportunities and the chance for personal and business growth. What are your reasons?
Most of my inspiration comes from people I meet. The various groups I am in have given me opportunities to connect with some truly amazing people. In the case of this book, I had a lot of practical support from people at folk club, when it came to doing the necessary research.

Who is the ideal person to read your book? If each person that reads this was going to recommend your book to one person, what sort of person would they want to chose?
Someone of a pagan inclination, with an interest in folklore and history – and that’s not as niche a target audience as it may sound.


What do you think ignites a person’s creativity?
Nothing beats having someone else tell me their stories – anything true is good. I’m blessed with some seriously inspirational people in my life.

What have you found to be the biggest stumbling block for people who want to start writing?
Having enough ideas is always an issue. The other one seems to be having the focus and discipline to see a book through to the end. Lots of people start writing novels, few of them finish.

How would you suggest they can overcome that?
Designating a little time every day, or setting targets for words per week might help I suppose. It’s not a problem I’ve ever really had!

What do you find is the biggest motivator for people to succeed? Is it money, security, desire for fame or something else?
I think that depends on the individual. I write for the joy of creating, and in the hopes of engaging other people in some way that works for them.
.

Who is the “perfect” person to read your book?
Someone who likes their stories to be unpredictable.

Start with the Facts with T David Lee

Tell us the book title and your author name. "108th Street" by T David Lee

What inspired the book? My own childhood experiences

What makes this book special to you? It gave me the opportunity to re-visit my own childhood and recall its grandeur and brevity. I've also been told by many readers that they could easily identify with the characters and situations, which validated my original intentions in writing it.

What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY? This is a very funny story. Times are very tough for a lot of people; the book will bring them back to a simpler time and give them a chance to smile at the story, take a fresh look at their own childhoods and perhaps be distracted from their own difficult circumstances.

What people NEED to read this book and WHY? Everyone who's been a child or has children needs to understand the viewpoint of the main character so they can balance their childhood innocence with what's become of it -- or what is left of it -- since.

What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity? Most important is the ability to frame a story or passage out of some mundane event, to be able to take something everyday ordinary and expand it into something memorable.

What has been the biggest stumbling block in your writing? Can you share some tips to help others get past similar problems? Time to write in a continuous stream. Life intervenes way too much on the writing process to allow people the time and focus to create the storylines and narratives they conceive but don't have the contiguous time to put to page.

What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry? I saw this as a challenge to see if could tell a story that would resonate with a large segment of the reading population. I wanted to see if I could bring strangers into my experience and have them enjoy it as much as I did.

Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books? Did a blind radio interview. I think there's a Braille version available.

FICTION - If there is a setting, tell us how you decided on that setting and what you did to create a complete and vivid setting for your readers? The book is set in New York City as I remember it in 1958. I tried to create an atmosphere that would immerse the reader in that time and circumstance so they would better understand the lifestyle as well as the distinct differences between then and now.

FICTION - What inspires you about the hero or heroine in your book? What makes them memorable for the reader? What motivates the hero and/or heroine? You can include information about both if you want. There is no "hero", just a typical boy growing up in the late 1950s. There's no shame in being ordinary. Great things happen to ordinary people without their becoming the least bit heroic. Readers will find the characters memorable because they will equate them with figures from their own past experiences.

FICTION - Is there a villain or something that causes friction in your story? Tell us about what or who it is and how that contributes to the story. Any details about conflict and friction is good information to know. There is a villain, and in a story about ten year-old kids it's got to be a bully, something we've all experienced at one point or another. This is another device to draw the reader into the story and make him familiar, if perhaps not comfortable, with the characters and the story. Even a broad comedy such as this has to have elements of drama or conflict to succeed.

There is a web site at which the book can be ordered. It is www.eloquentbooks.com/108thstreet.html.

Promotional Interview with C A Milson

You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.

Your Name: C.A.Milson

1. Where you are from and where are you now? I grew up in Brisbane Australia. I now reside primarily in Samara Russia although I travel internationally a great deal.

2. How did you get started writing? I first discovered writing when I was in grade 9, when I attended Kedron State High School. Instead of reading a book and writing a report on what I thought about the topic, I decided to pen a short story. In about 2 hours I penned a short sci-fi story, which was my first attempt at the world of writing. The story received top marks from my English professor, who also encouraged me to continue writing. That was the first and seemingly last time I put pen to paper.. That was until the summer of 1989....

3. What do you do when you are not writing? When I am not writing I spent a lot of time working as a Recruiter and spend a lot of time blogging about The Chosen, as well as about my upcoming novel, Bloodline of Darkness.

4. What would readers like to know about you? I am pretty much the same as everyone else. I have hopes and dreams, triumphs and tragedies.

5. What inspired your first book? The inspiration for the first novel came from a hobbytex picture my mother had on the wall in her apartment. In 1989, I was living in Melbourne at the time, and once again I found myself writing. My first short story was titled "Shack of Evil", a 9 page story based on the character Jamiesonn. The story idea came from a Hobbytex picture my mother had on the wall of her apartment.

6. How many books have you written? The Chosen was my first full length publication. The Chosen was written after I laid the foundation for the short story titled "Shack of Evil". After I wrote Shack Of Evil, I went on to write an additional 25 short stories, all of different genres, including a childrens story. That original story later become the base for what is now the trilogy of The Chosen, Bloodline of Darkness, and Prophecy's End.

7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they? My debut novel is titled The Chosen. I am working on Bloodline of Darkness currently. Both are Supernatural Horror.

8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? Why are you specially qualified to write about this topic? I was not automatically drawn into horror, but after reading stories by H.P. Lovecraft and Misery by Stephen King, I knew that I wanted to write novels that would entertain and scare the audience. But like some beginning writers, I had no idea how to get storyline past the seemingly impossible short-phase and also written in the third person context. I have studied different theologies about the supernatural throughout my life and I have always been fascinated of what possibilities would lay in other spiritual worlds, so my writing maintains a basis of the cliched "good versus evil" and the "what-if" scenarios without coming across to heavy.

9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re writing a book? When I actually get focused on writing, different scenarios pop into my mind, and where I want to take a scene, so I write it exactly as I see it. Like, at the moment, I am writing the third chapter of Bloodline, and so far the main character has had a series of dayvisions, where he thinks that the world around him is real, then he wakes up, to later find out that he is in another nightmare..

10. Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both? I write because that is my first passion in life. It may sound cliched, but I was born to write. Sure, to have an international best seller would be a bonus, but that is not my motivation. Never was. I am the first to admit that back in the 90's when I fantisized about the lifestyle, the famousosity, the big wads of cash, the hollywood parties, and all the rest that goes with mega-celebrityism that did seem like a fun thought… I guess maybe at one time or another all of us have entertained those thoughts, but that is not what writing is about. Writing for the sole purpose of "I'm getting paid a million to write this" would not be as fun as writing for the pleasure of creating alternate worlds where anything you dream can exist J

11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? Which were the

most successful? Being one who has been in marketing for 14 years, I have seen nearly every form of marketing known to man. In my time I have done sub campaigns and promoted everything from concerts to land investments, and I have to say that this, promoting a novel, is something I was so unprepared for. I took it for granted initially that when a book comes out, it would get on the NYT list, and so forth, but that is not how it is. Apart from the PR's that I have sent out to various newspapers (which don’t seem to work), the only things that have gotten attention are the posts I put on Social Networking sites such as MySpace and Facebook.

12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful? I once had some ads on free classified sites like Gumtree but that didn't attract much attention. The most successful is when I blast bulletins on Netowrk sites or am on other blog sites. On days like that I see the number of hits soar, expecially in December. I just hope that those hits have also turned into book sales J

13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not? My works are available through most online retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Amira Press, just to name a few. Best way to see what list of retailers stock The Chosen, just google my name "C.A.Milson." I think at the moment I am on some 4,000 websites.

My personal websites are:

www.authorcamilson.com and http://authorcamilson.info

14. Where can people order your books? The Chosen can be purchased from Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Chosen-C-Milson/dp/1934475815

15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc? E-book and paperback

16. Will you write more books? Absolutely! My intention is to complete Bloodline of Darkness by February, and then Prophey's End sometime in 2010.

17. What do you have in the works now? Bloodline of Darkness.

18. What does the future hold for you and your books? Next for me is writing Bloodline of Darkness, which is the second in the trilogy in the life of Alex Manning - A man who is put in the middle of a spiritual conflict he otherwise wants no part of. Bloodline of Darkness is set seven years after The Chosen. Alex has forsaken his powers to live a "normal" life, and the forces of Tartarus have arisen to harvest the souls of humans and plunge the world into darkness. Alex once again must stand and save humanity but can he overcome the ever present darkness that also reigns in his own heart?

19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books? Blogsites

20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books? Newspapers

21. Tell us about your most recent book. My first novel is called The Chosen. It is a Supernatural Horror, set in modern times. It is the story of Alex Manning who is “The One”, well actually Alex Manning is a nice guy, with anxiety attacks who has visions. He doesnt know he is “The One” until he gets wrapped up in the investigation of the Jamiesonn house. Then he is drawn neck deep into betrayal, battling demons, freaky scary ghosts, and falling in love again tossed in for good measure.

22. What makes this book special to you? This book is the first one that I have seen to be published. From the orginaly concept in 1989 til now has been close to 20 years. That is an externity, and a life-long dream come true. So naturally this first one will always be something to tell my children when they get older.

23. What sort of comments have you gotten about the content of the book? I have had many comments from people, mostly congrulatory, but naturally there have been the odd one who has slammed what I write.

24. What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY? This book defines a new era in horror, dare I say? I explore the boundries of horror and bring a new change to the world of supernatual fiction. Imagine a world beyond our own where Dark Forces reign, and only one mortal stands in the way of their enslavement of humanity. The Chosen, Bloodline of Darkness, and Prophecy’s End follow the life of Alex Manning. A hero called to stand for humanity and face a destiny that he wants no part of.

25. What people NEED to read this book and WHY? Anyone who loves horror, the supernatual and action should read this book. Do you like ghost stories? What about horror? Gothicism? Mysticism? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need to read this book. J

26. What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity? Music usually gets me going. But my advise to any aspirign writer is find something that sparks that creative grey matter in your brain and go from there. Start with an idea, build life into a character to make them appear as real as anyone else. Build on their character with real thoughts, dreams, hopes, failures, fears, delusions. When I am writing a character, I "put myself in their shoes" and think, "Now what would I do if I was.." Visualization helps. I find that when I am listening to my music collection on the laptop, I just write for hours at a time.

27. What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry? I would like to believe that people become writers for the love of writing. My motivation was simple. I am a creative person and I write based on what inspires me.

28. Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books? "Win a date with me!" Of course, in the history of bad ideas, that was about the lamest J

29. If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "Its the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :) I would say something along the lines of "Have you seen Hellraiser? Or works by Clive Barker? Stephen King? Seen LOTR? Ever seen any of M. Night Shymalan's work? Okay, if you have then you will like this."

30. Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers? Give us a hook to reel in new readers. I have always had a fascination with the Supernatural, and if anyone likes to watch the true ghost stories, then this will be right up your alley. Now, for those who have watched docos on Ghost hauntings, about a ghost terrorizing a house or a person, The Chosen can be compared to that, except, imagine a Supernatual Force that does it on a much larger scale!

Interview With Patti Ogden Author of Keoni's Big Question

Tell us the book title and your author name.

Keoni’s Big Question

Patti B. Ogden

What inspired the book?

A story told in several sermons of William Branham

What makes this book special to you?

Keoni’s Big Question is very special to me because it tells such a sweet story of a curious little boy that just wanted to know more about God. The little boy reminded me of myself. As a child I was very curious about the deep questions of life and I was just as determined to find the right answers.

What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?

Keoni’s Big Question has a beautiful message with a surprising answer that will impact it’s readers for a lifetime.

What people NEED to read this book and WHY?

This 32 page fully-illustrated book is a wonderful book for all children, but I have had its meaning inspire parents as well. It’s an endearing story of faith, Christian values and the how and why of reaching out to God for answers in our life.

What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?

They say good authors are good readers and I agree with that. My mind often starts to form ideas after reading inspirational items and great literature.

What has been the biggest stumbling block in your writing? Can you share some tips to help others get past similar problems?

One of the biggest stumbling blocks is coming to a word road block. You know what you want to say but the correct words or phrases escape you. The on-the-tip-of-my- tongue problem. That is frustrating! I get past this by going for a long walk to clear my head and then flipping through reference tools like my Thesaurus.

What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?

This is something I wanted to do since a high school creative writing class. I think the motivation is the basic human desire to express ourselves. Writing is a channel that we can freely do that.


FICTION - If there is a setting, tell us how you decided on that setting and what you did to create a complete and vivid setting for your readers?

Keoni’s Big Question is centered around a fishing trip Keoni takes with an old family friend. The setting was easy as it was a part of the original story told by William Branham. Yet that was only an outline and I had to fill in the gaps with fiction. I decided that the fishing trip had to become dangerous to make a way for Keoni to communicate with God so he would come naturally to the answers to his big question.

FICTION - What inspires you about the hero or heroine in your book? What makes them memorable for the reader? What motivates the hero and/or heroine? You can include information about both if you want.

Keoni inspires me because he never gives up. He knows there are correct answers to his questions and he persevered until he was satisfied in his soul. I admire that. It shows great faith.

FICTION - Is there a villain or something that causes friction in your story? Tell us about what or who it is and how that contributes to the story. Any details about conflict and friction is good information to know.

The friction in this story are the many disappointing answers that Keoni receives when he first begins his search for answers. Sadly, this is too often seen in our modern society- people who are too busy to sit down and have serious conversation with children. Keoni begins to feel rejected and pacified and the reader will soon feel great empathy to what he is going through.

Is there a way to tie your book topic to current events? If so, tell us about how you could do that. I have a blog to feature information and examples about tying books into current events that might be a good place for you to promote your book.

Keoni’s Big Question and it’s message is very important - now more than ever. Headlines and current events are becoming more fearful about the state of the world, the economy and the prophecy of the end of times. Children are especially sensitive to these things, they see their families worried about job loss, higher bills to pay, etc. This book helps them to realize there is a higher power to call upon. One that can instill peace and joy.

If there's anything else you would like to share, this is the time and place.

Watch for the Keoni’s Big Question book trailer in May.

I also have two more books that are coming out this year.

“Shamgar and the Ox Goad” is scheduled next. I am very excited about it! It is a very imaginative tale of the little known story of Shamgar, who was only mentioned twice in the Bible, yet greatly used of God. Taken from one verse in the book of Judges, this is a story of one man and how delivers Israel from the hand of the Philistines. This is the first volume in our Untold Heroes of the Bible series and is a powerful, intriguing story that teaches children the virtues of Godly character and faith.

“Momma, Am I Pretty?” is about a young girl who deals with her first experience of religious persecution and how the wisdom of her mother helps her through her emotional reaction. Illustrator and designer Robert Sauber is busy working on this project and we hope to have this one out by late summer.

Thank you for visiting with me and in closing, give us your website address and a link to order your book.

Thank you! It was my pleasure.

Keoni’s Big Question is available at :

Amazon.com - http://www.amazon.com/Keonis-Big-Question-Patti-Ogden/dp/098167836X

BarnesandNoble.com

Bookch.com.

I would like to invite readers to stop by our website.

Http://www.Capstone-Productions.com

Meet Heather Matthews - Author of Carolina

You have been invited to share your promotional experience with others.

Your Name: Heather Matthews

1. Where you are from and where are you now?

My name is Heather Matthews. I grew up in New Brunswick, Canada. I now live on the West Coast, in Vancouver. It rains now and then, but I love it.

2. How did you get started writing?

I started writing essays in school, and I was encouraged to write more. From the age of 8, I was writing stories on my own, but I tended to keep them private. As an adult, I developed the courage to share my work with the outside world. I began writing for magazines like Canadian Living, and doing freelance work for clients all over the world. Then I knew I was ready to start writing novels.

3. What do you do when you are not writing?

I’m a Mom, and I have a fourteen year old son named Jeremy. I enjoy spending a lot of time with him.

4. What would readers like to know about you?

I am a true romantic. I believe in love, and I feel inspired by the passion two people can share. I try to bring this spirit into my work.

5. What inspired your first book?

I’ve gone through hard times, just like my main character, Carrie Evans. I’ve felt the same heartache and the same doubts. But I have never given up on my dreams, and my heroine is just the same. I chose to write about a woman who rises up to great success, because I believe anything is possible.

6. How many books have you written?

I’ve written two.

7. What are the titles of your books and what genres are they?

My first novel, Carolina (drama/romance), is coming out on March 27^th. My second novel, a magical adventure for young readers (Below The Sapphire Sea), will be released next October.

8. How do you decide on that topic or genre? Why are you specially qualified to write about this topic?

Anyone who has experienced love, with all its trials and tribulations, is probably qualified to write romance. However, I’ve spent years perfecting my craft through freelance work and short stories. I’ve devoted myself to creating truly memorable characters.

9. How do you manage to keep yourself focused and on track when you’re writing a book?

I always get caught up in my stories, so it’s easy to stay on track. Sometimes I even dream about my characters.

10. Do you write to make money, for the love of writing or both?

I write because I have to. It’s my form of creative release. I would do it no matter what. I’m learning a lot about the publishing business, and my greatest hope is that I can reach a wide audience. If money comes from that, it will be a nice bonus.

11. What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used? Which were the
most successful?

My website is quite successful. I post all my freelance work on the site, along with some blog posts. I write about all kinds of things: astrology, parenting, phobias, current affairs, Hollywood…I get a fair bit of traffic to the site. People can see my book when they visit, and order it through a link I’ve set up.

12. What are some unique methods of marketing you have used? Which were the most successful?

I have found social networking sites like Facebook and Myspace are a fun way to promote. It’s not work to talk about my book when I’m chatting to good friends. Facebook is a great tool for writers, and a wonderful meeting ground for old and new friends.

13. Do you sell through a website? If so, what’s the address? If not, why not?

I sell the book through a link on my own website: www.heathermatthews.ca By clicking on my book cover, you can go straight to Amazon and pick up a copy.

14. Where can people order your books?

My book is available on Amazon.com. Target.com, and at www.cacoethespublishing.com. It will be available at Borders and Barnes & Noble websites in the near future.

15. What format are your books – e-book, print, audio etc?

My book is available in e-book format, as well as print format.

16. Will you write more books?

I have already finished my second novel, and I’m definitely going to keep writing novels. It’s my favorite way to write.

17. What do you have in the works now?

I’m currently writing a novella. It’s a romance. And I’m sketching out some ideas for my third novel.

18. What does the future hold for you and your books?

Hopefully, my books will touch readers. Once they feel connected to my work, things will fall into place. I’m committed to getting better and better, so I can keep my bond with readers alive.

19. What was the most successful thing you did to promote your books?

Setting up a website has been very positive for me.

20. What was the least successful thing you did to promote your books?

It’s too early to tell. My book comes out on March 27^th. I’ve been selling pre-sale copies on Amazon, and I’m happy with the way things are going so far, but I’m bound to make some mistakes.

21. Tell us about your most recent book.

My first novel, Carolina, is a glitzy romance in the vein of Jacqueline Susann (The Valley Of The Dolls) and Judith Krantz (Princess Daisy). I’ve always enjoyed romance with a touch of Hollywood glitter, so I wrote about a poor girl, Carrie Evans, who endures hardship and heartbreak. Eventually, she becomes country music’s hottest new superstar – Carolina. Along the way, she meets Jacob Goldman, a record company executive who sees her true potential – and falls deeply in love. Unfortunately, he’s involved with Stella Davis, a country star of his own creation. And she doesn’t take kindly to competition.

22. What makes this book special to you?

I poured my whole heart and soul into this book. I tried to show a range of emotions, while maintaining a fast-paced story that features glamorous locales like LA, Memphis, and even Jamaica. Carrie’s journey is something any woman can relate to. We all have our dreams and desires, and you may find you care very much about her life after only a few pages.

23. What sort of comments have you gotten about the content of the book?

I’ve been told that the book has everything it needs to keep a reader turning the pages. Readers enjoyed the scope of emotions, the changes in scenery, and the believable characters. My editor expects my book to do well, and I hope it does.

24. What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?

The book is very current. It had lots of pop culture references, and they give the novel a gritty, contextual feel. The main characters are well drawn and dimensional. Noone is a cookie-cutter stereotype. My characters make decisions that are good and bad, and they work through problems, just like real people do.

25. What people NEED to read this book and WHY?

This book will take you into another world, and it will allow you to live out the dreams we’ve all carried with us since childhood. For example, many of us have imagined ourselves living the life of a glamorous celebrity. For Carolina, this dream comes true, and we can live through her and feel all of her emotions.

26. What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?

I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember. I lose myself in my own stories, and they seem to take on a life of their own. When I go back and re-read my work, and enjoy my own story, I know I’ve done something right. This keeps my creativity flowing. Films, books, and music are also powerful creative tools for me. I would recommend that any fledgling writer set up a little creative time each day, surrounded by music and other things that inspire beautiful words and imagery.

27. What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?

It comes from the heart. I would write, even if I were the richest woman on earth. I think most authors feel the same way.

28. Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?

I’ve done all the typical things, such as setting up a personal website: www.heathermatthews.cawww.toptenz.net. By writing interesting material, and putting a big ad for my book on the bottom (through the kindness of my employers), I’ve found a wider audience for my work.

29. If a potential reader thinks that your book wouldn't interest them, what would you say to convince them to buy? I'm thinking something better than "Its the greatest book ever." Give me something more specific :)

My book isn’t a typical romance, and yet it’s very romantic. There is passion and longing, but also a lot of other feelings. Depression, jealousy, and grief also surface in the book. One character struggles with addiction, just as so many people do in the “real world”. Another suffers tragedy that scars her from within. There are many areas to explore in the human heart, and I try to touch on all of that in this book. It’s a little deeper than some romances, and it may touch you for this reason.

30. Why does the topic of your book interest you? Why would it interest potential readers?

Give us a hook to reel in new readers. In the age of American Idol, America loves contests and competitions. My character becomes involved in a huge competition, and it’s exciting to read about it from the “inside”. If you love shows like American Idol, you’ll enjoy Carolina.

Meet David S Brody Author of Cabal of the Westford Knight: Templars at the Newport Tower

Tell us the book title and your author name.

Cabal of the Westford Knight: Templars at the Newport Tower, by David S. Brody

What inspired the book?

As a resident of Westford, Massachusetts, I had long known of the legend of the Westford Knight (Scottish explorers visiting Westford in 1398 and carving an effigy in stone in Westford to commemorate the death of a fallen comrade). As I researched the subject further, I realized there is other evidence in New England that corroborates this legend. Further, the legend is consistent with many European sources. This hidden history is a story that needed to be told.

What makes this book special to you?

The research. It is truly fascinating, almost addictive. The artifacts and sites speak to us from 600 years ago. I feel like I’ve been looking through a window into our hidden history, and now I get to share my findings with the public through my book.

What makes this a book that other people MUST read and WHY?

I’m not sure I would use the word, “must.” But I will say that anyone who enjoys historical fiction, anyone who likes books that allow them to learn about history while at the same time being entertained, “should” read this book. Not to belabor the point, but it really does give readers an opportunity to learn about a fascinating, hidden history involving medieval exploration of America.

What people NEED to read this book and WHY?

Anyone who enjoyed The Da Vinci Code really needs to read this, as it turns out the medieval exploration of North America is directly related to the families, themes and sites discussed by Dan Brown in his book. To be specific, I’m talking about the Knights Templar, the Jesus bloodline families, the Freemasons, so-called “paganism” within the Church, Roslyn Chapel—they all play an important part in who came to North America in the late 1300s and why.

What sparks your creativity? Any tips to help others spark their own creativity?

More than anything else, I think passion sparks creativity. Everyone has something they are passionate about, something that will get them up early in the morning or make them take that long walk into the woods. That’s what aspiring authors should write about.

What has been the biggest stumbling block in your writing? Can you share some tips to help others get past similar problems?

I have a rule: I never let a day go by without working on the book I am writing. If I’m not actually writing, I’m researching or editing, even if for only a half hour. In that way my brain never disengages from the story. It has really helped me avoid writer’s block, helped me avoid putting the project down and then not picking it up for weeks or months at a time.

What do you think motivates people to become authors? What motivated you to get into this unusual industry?

For me, my family is big into reading. We always had books in the house, always viewed reading as the best form of entertainment. I think everyone has a creative streak in them—literature was a natural venue in which to express mine.

Tell me about the most unusual things you have done to promote any books?

My first book, Unlawful Deeds, is a legal thriller that turns on a series of real estate transactions. It has an obvious appeal to real estate attorneys and paralegals. I used to go into the county registries of deeds, where closings were held, and tape promotional flyers on the tables where buyers and sellers transacted the closings. It worked pretty well—the book became a bestseller.

FICTION - If there is a setting, tell us how you decided on that setting and what you did to create a complete and vivid setting for your readers?

The characters in the book travel across New England researching and investigating the medieval sites and artifacts much as I did when researching the book. Of course, they do so while being hunted down by enemies trying to keep this hidden history a secret. Nobody was trying to kill me while I was doing my research!

FICTION - What inspires you about the hero or heroine in your book? What makes them memorable for the reader? What motivates the hero and/or heroine? You can include information about both if you want.

Both Cameron and Amanda, the hero and heroine in the story, are at sort of a crossroads point in their lives. That makes them open to new ideas and new adventures. And also open to a possible romance.

FICTION - Is there a villain or something that causes friction in your story? Tell us about what or who it is and how that contributes to the story. Any details about conflict and friction is good information to know.

There are a couple of different villains in the story, but I’m especially happy the way the Salazar character turned out. He is a hired assassin who between assignments is a doting and loving single father to his young daughter. He has the same dreams and concerns and feelings as any parent—the only difference being he kills people for a living. Despite what he does for work, it’s hard to dislike him.

If there's anything else you would like to share, this is the time and place.

As you can probably tell, I’m very passionate about this story! If readers would like to see the sites and artifacts that I talk about in my book, they can go to my blogspot: http://westfordknight.blogspot.com/ . Many so-called experts believe these are all modern-day hoaxes or forgeries. I strongly disagree, and invite readers to reach their own conclusions.

Thank you for visiting with me and in closing, give us your website address and a link to order your book.

My website is www.davidbrodybooks.com

The link to purchase the book on Amazon is:

www.amazon.com/Cabal-Westford-Knight-Templars-Newport/dp/0977389871/