Showing posts with label Goodreads. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Goodreads. Show all posts

Tuesday, June 13, 2023

Retellings of Shakespeare's stories in science fiction and fantasy



Shakespeare's stories have inspired countless adaptations, and it's no surprise that they've made their way into the world of science fiction and fantasy. By reimagining Shakespeare's plays in futuristic or fantastical settings, these books offer a new perspective on these classic tales. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best science fiction and fantasy retellings of Shakespeare's stories.
 
The Tempest by Margaret Atwood: Margaret Atwood's "Hag-Seed" is a retelling of Shakespeare's "The Tempest" set in a Canadian prison. The protagonist, Felix, is a former theater director who seeks revenge against those who wronged him by staging a production of "The Tempest" with the inmates.

Macbeth by Jo Nesbø: Jo Nesbø's "Macbeth" is a retelling of the classic tragedy set in a dystopian city. The story follows Inspector Macbeth as he rises to power through corruption and violence, with the help of his partner, Lady.
 
Romeo and Juliet by S.E. Smith: S.E. Smith's "Romeo and Juliet: The Galactic Version" is a science fiction retelling of the tragic love story. Set in space, the story follows Romeo and Juliet as they try to overcome the cultural and political barriers that keep them apart.

Hamlet by John Scalzi: John Scalzi's "The Collapsing Empire" is a space opera that draws inspiration from Shakespeare's "Hamlet." The story takes place in a future where humanity has colonized other planets and follows the struggles of several characters as they try to save the collapsing empire.

A Midsummer Night's Dream by Neil Gaiman: Neil Gaiman's "The Sandman" is a graphic novel series that draws inspiration from "A Midsummer Night's Dream." The story takes place in the world of dreams and follows the character of Dream as he navigates various supernatural conflicts.


Retellings of Shakespeare's stories in science fiction and fantasy settings offer a fresh and exciting perspective on these classic tales. By exploring themes and characters in new and imaginative ways, these books offer a new take on Shakespeare's timeless works. The books listed above are just a few examples of the many great retellings out there, and they're definitely worth checking out if you're a fan of Shakespeare or science fiction and fantasy.



Tuesday, May 16, 2023

World War Z: a book and movie comparison

World War Z continues to be one of my favorite movies. If it's on, I'll watch it. Even though fast zombies scare the crap out of me. The book is one of my favorites also, but if you've read/watched you know that they vary drastically. It's still good entertainment and storytelling in my opinion.

"World War Z" is a 2006 novel by Max Brooks that tells the story of a global zombie outbreak and its aftermath through a series of interviews with survivors. The book is widely regarded as a classic of the zombie genre, and its unique storytelling style has made it a favorite of readers around the world. In 2013, a movie adaptation was released, which departed significantly from the source material. In this blog post, we'll compare the book and movie versions of "World War Z".

The most significant departure from the book is the movie's focus on a single protagonist, Gerry Lane (played by Brad Pitt). In the book, there is no central character, and the story is told through the accounts of various survivors. This change fundamentally alters the nature of the story, shifting it from a collection of individual stories to a traditional action-adventure movie with a hero at its center.

Another significant difference is the portrayal of the zombies. In the book, the zombies are slow-moving and relatively easy to kill. They are a constant threat but are not presented as an unbeatable enemy. In the movie, the zombies are fast-moving and ferocious, capable of overwhelming even large military forces. This change creates a sense of urgency and danger that is absent from the book.

The movie also alters the tone of the story, emphasizing action and suspense over the book's more introspective and philosophical approach. While the book explores themes of survival, society, and human nature, the movie focuses more on thrilling set-pieces and suspenseful sequences.

Despite these differences, the movie does share some similarities with the book. Both versions of the story explore the global impact of a zombie outbreak and the ways in which different societies respond to the crisis. Both versions also examine the role of the military and government in responding to the outbreak.

While the movie adaptation of "World War Z" differs significantly from the book, it still manages to capture some of the essence of the original story. The movie offers a thrilling and suspenseful take on the zombie genre, while the book is a more thoughtful and introspective exploration of society, human nature, and survival. If you're a fan of zombie stories, both versions of "World War Z" are worth checking out, but they offer different experiences and perspectives.



Wednesday, May 3, 2023

Magical Realism and Romance



Magical realism is a genre of literature that blends elements of fantasy and the supernatural with the real world. It’s a genre that is known for its vivid imagery and unique storytelling. When combined with romance, magical realism can create a truly captivating reading experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best magical realism books with romance.


What is Magical Realism?

Magical realism is a genre of literature that is characterized by the incorporation of magical or supernatural elements into the real world. It often blurs the lines between reality and fantasy, creating a dream-like atmosphere. Magical realism is known for its vivid imagery, lyrical language, and unconventional storytelling.

What Makes Magical Realism with Romance So Captivating?

Magical realism with romance combines two genres that are known for their ability to transport readers to different worlds. It creates a unique reading experience that is both enchanting and captivating. The romantic elements in these books often add a layer of emotional depth to the story, making them much more engaging than traditional romance novels. Additionally, the magical or supernatural elements in these books often add a sense of mystery and intrigue, creating a truly unforgettable reading experience.

Top Magical Realism Books with Romance:One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez: This novel is a masterpiece of magical realism. It follows the story of the Buendía family over seven generations in the fictional town of Macondo. The novel weaves together magical elements with a captivating love story.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern: This novel tells the story of two young magicians who are pitted against each other in a magical competition. The book is known for its enchanting prose and captivating romance.
Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel: This novel is a classic example of magical realism with romance. It tells the story of Tita, a young woman who is forbidden to marry the man she loves. The book weaves together magical elements with a heart-wrenching love story.
The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger: This novel follows the story of a man with a genetic disorder that causes him to time travel, and his wife, who must navigate their relationship through time. The book is known for its unique blend of magical realism and romance.

Magical realism with romance is a captivating genre that creates a truly unique reading experience. The books listed above are just a few examples of the many great magical realism books with romance out there. If you’re looking for a break from traditional romance novels or fantasy books, then magical realism with romance is definitely worth checking out. These books will transport you to different worlds and leave you with a sense of wonder and enchantment.



Tuesday, May 2, 2023

World War Z: A modern exploration of the zombie apocalypse



World War Z is a 2006 novel by Max Brooks that presents a fictional oral history of a global zombie outbreak. The book is written as a series of interviews with survivors from all over the world, providing a unique and chilling perspective on the zombie apocalypse.

Unlike many other zombie stories, World War Z takes a more realistic approach to the genre. The book explores how the outbreak begins and spreads, and how governments and individuals respond to the crisis. It also delves into the social, economic, and political implications of a zombie apocalypse.

The book is divided into chapters that focus on different aspects of the outbreak, from the initial outbreak to the war against the zombies and the eventual rebuilding of society. Each chapter is presented as a series of interviews with survivors, giving readers a firsthand account of the events.

One of the strengths of World War Z is its attention to detail. The book is meticulously researched and contains a wealth of information about everything from military tactics to the history of the zombie genre. Brooks' writing is also praised for its realism and the way it captures the voices of the various characters.

World War Z was a critical and commercial success, winning the Bram Stoker Award for Best Novel and being adapted into a feature film starring Brad Pitt in 2013. The book's influence on the zombie genre is also significant, inspiring numerous imitators and spinoffs.

The book's exploration of the social and political implications of a zombie outbreak also resonates with readers today, as the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of preparedness and the consequences of government mismanagement.

World War Z is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that presents a unique perspective on the zombie apocalypse. Its attention to detail, realism, and exploration of social and political issues make it a standout in the zombie genre. If you're a fan of horror or apocalyptic fiction, World War Z is definitely worth a read.





Wednesday, February 8, 2017

Review: GONE by Elisabeth Naughton





I am never disappointed by Elizabeth Naughton. Her latest release GONE was no exception. Thrilling and romantic, this book kept me reading late into the night. Loved it. 5/5 stars.






Three years ago, Alec McClane and Raegan Devereaux lived every parent’s worst nightmare: their one-year-old daughter, Emma, was abducted from a park when Alec turned his back for just a moment. Emma was never found, and presumed dead. The crushing trauma, plus Alec’s unbearable guilt, ended the couple’s marriage.

Now a four-year-old girl matching Emma’s profile is found wandering a local park. Alec and Raegan are heartbroken to discover she’s not their daughter but are newly motivated to find closure…and each secretly feels desperate to be in the other’s presence again.

Alec suspects his vengeful biological father is behind Emma’s disappearance. But as Raegan investigates other abductions in the area, she sees a pattern—and begins to wonder if Emma’s kidnapping is actually linked to something more sinister.

As Alec and Raegan race to uncover the truth, a long-burning spark rekindles into smoldering passion, and they realize they need each other now more than ever.

Saturday, December 31, 2016

Review: Sister Hope





A wonderful little story about about a nun uniting strangers from all walks of life. Her quite persistence changes the lives of those who cross her path. If you're looking for inspiration, faith, or a little exploration of the human condition, I suggest reading this. Great read.

5/5 stars

Get your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MY2SRZ3

Saturday, November 26, 2016

Review: Wake of Vultures (The Shadow Book 1) by Lila Bowen



Wake of Vultures (The Shadow Book 1) by Lila Bowen

I have been waiting to read Wake of Vultures for about a year now. This book touts some hefty recommendations by writers, and guess what, they're right.
Wake of Vultures was an awesome read. An eclectic paranormal western, and deep coming of age novel wove into one. Our main character, Nettie Lonesome, is a mix of race, gender, and teeters between the worlds of the hard west and wicked monsters. Completely original and perfectly paced, Wake of Vultures is a must read.

5/5 stars.


Friday, October 30, 2015

Book Review: What Lies Within






Fast-paced and unpredictable, What Lies Within is an exciting read. For a good portion of this book I kept getting that eerie feeling I remember from watching the movie Scream as a kid. As Shelley Murano's story unfolded, I was hooked and couldn't put it down.  If you like YA and thrillers, What Lies Within is perfect for you.


5/5 stars

Get Your Copy of WHAT LIES WITHIN by James Morris








PS: I just started reading MELOPHOBIA, and I'm hooked. Pick up these books people.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Today's Authtoberfest featured author is JAMES MORRIS!





James Morris is a cool guy. He has won two KindleScout campaigns this year! What an accomplishment. James has written some great reads, people. Check out his links below.
Let's see what James had to say about All Hallows' Eve!



1. It’s Halloween, pick 3 of your favorite writer buddies to paint the town read with and tell us why you chose them.
James says: I’m really not sure. Unlike the zombie apocalypse where survival is at stake, going to a party is a lot more personal. I’d want to know the writers as people first, which is a problem because really, I don’t want to know most writers. Not that they’re not nice people. But if I love a piece of work, and then I meet the writer, and he or she turns out to be an odious turd, then it’s forever going to impact how I read the book. And the book and the person, to me, are separate things. All that to say, I’d dress up in a costume, like maybe Darth Maul where no one would recognize me and let my id roam free.



2. You’re ready to head out with your pillowcase to collect loads of confections on All Hallows’ Eve, what’s your costume and why did you choose it?
James says: I used to love Halloween, but as people got older, there were fewer and fewer parties. I’m talking Halloween bashes where everyone is costumed (and not “as themselves” – seriously, why go to a Halloween party without a costume!) Having said that, my wife and I talked about going as Wonderwoman and Superman. But you know what? I can’t pull off that costume. I think I’d prefer to go as Hugh Hefner.



3. Old Mrs. Robinson opens her door and you’re holding open your pillowcase patiently waiting. “Oh deary,” she says in her frail, little old-lady voice. “I forgot it was Halloween. Don’t know why you kids go begging anyways. Let me go find something to give you.” She shuffles off and finally returns three and a half minutes later with 5 pennies, 2 peppermint candies that look like they went through the dryer, and her deceased husbands dentures. “Take what you like,” she offers, squinting at you.
What do you choose and why.
James says: Hilarious. (I will share, one year while trick-or-treating, a woman gave us peanuts. Like, 3 of them. With the shells on. I thought it was the worst treat ever.) As for Mrs. Robinson, I’d skip the 5 pennies, as well as the peppermint candies and take the dentures. Who knows when I might need them? Bwhahaha.



4. I really love reading Dean Koontz but some of his stuff scares the bejesus out of me. What’s the spookiest book you’ve ever read?
James says: The one most recent was Birdbox by Josh Malerman. I thought that was one of the most unique horror books ever, and I’m kinda jealous I didn’t think of it. The other one that stands out in memory is Stephen King’s “The Shining.” How he made the shrubbery maze – with its topiary animals – scary, was very cool because that idea could’ve gone very, very wrong.
Meredith says: Birdbox was an awesome read. Josh Malerman's interview is on 10/31, stay tuned!


5. You’re a writer by day and supernatural creature by night. (Shed that human skin you sack of bones) What are you and why?
James says: One of my cool elementary school teachers played us Danse Macabre by Saint-Saens during Halloween. And I always liked that story of the skeletons dancing with abandon during that one special night a year, and then returning to their graves during the day. I’m not sure what creature I would be – vampire, werewolf, ghost – they are all so interesting – but I love the idea of capturing the spirit of life, which we unfortunately only really appreciate in the face of, or in the wake of, a tragedy and death.





6. Every author has a bookshelf filled with his or her favorite reads. Run on over to yours and tell us the scariest book you have.
James says: I generally don’t keep books – I give to them Goodwill when I’m done; I just ran out of room one day and thought: will I ever re-read them all? So my shelf is limited. The scariest one right now is THE CHOCOLATE WAR by Robert Cormier because I think it speaks to the entrenched power structures that are in place no matter where you are, which is scary indeed. (My analogy for life is I often think I’m caught in a bureaucracy as a low-level employee, and there are decisions made way above my pay grade, and I have no idea what they are, but whose ramifications continue to trickle down.)



7. We don’t all write horror but there comes a time when you’ve got to surprise your readers and make sure their hearts are still beating. How do you prepare yourself to get in the spooky writing mood?
James says: Scary or sweet, it’s the same. It’s boring, I know, but I just sit. And then I think: what would surprise me? What would scare me? Of course, making sure that I don’t have happy music in the background helps!



8. Stephen King’s front porch light is on but there are no Halloween decorations.
Do you:
a) trick-or-treat and cross your fingers that he’s handing out the good stuff
b) run screaming
c) call your mom to bring your favorite King paperback and beg for an autograph
James says: I’d definitely trick-or-treat. His house during Halloween must be insane.



9. Congratulations, you just won the literary lottery and sold a million books at full price! The royalty check clears on October 28th. What are you buying for the neighborhood kids?
a) an assortment of mini candybars
b) an assortment of cheap, hard candies
c) full size Hershey bars
James says: None of the above. I’m buying them peanuts with the shells on, so that they can remember me years and years later as the guy who gave them the worst treat ever.
Meredith says: I just laughed out loud!



10. Your writer friend calls you with some frightening news. They’re giving up on writing, can’t take the pressure any longer. What do you tell them?
James says: Writing is very personal; it’s like religion or politics that way. I would say I understand why they’re stopping. I’ve said before that writing as a career is not pragmatic at all and filled with heartache. Why we continue to do it speaks to the crazy love we have for it. So, when that love starts to wane, I’d say, take a break. For now. And then see if the passion returns. It’s not a failure. You are not a failure.



Connect with James Morris!



(This is James. I call him Jim 'cause we're best friends. He just doesn't know it yet.)


About this author:

James Morris is a former television writer who now works in digital media. When not writing, you can find him scoping out the latest sushi spot, watching 'House Hunters Renovation', or trying new recipes in the kitchen. He lives with his wife and dog in Los Angeles.


Monday, October 26, 2015

Today's Authtoberfest featured author is, the prince of darkness, ERNIE LINDSEY!




1. It’s the zombie apocalypse and writers have got to stick together to survive. Pick 3 authors to be on your zombie apocalypse killing team and tell us why you’d choose them.
Ernie says: First, Chuck Wendig. I only know of him through his Twitter feed, but he seems perfectly badass enough (can I say ‘badass’ on your blog?) to be like Ash from Army of Darkness. I can see him cocking a shotgun and saying, “Come get some.” Second, after reading The Martian, I’d have to go with Andy Weir, because he’s brilliant enough to rig whatever we’d need to stay alive. And maybe build a spaceship too so we could get away from the zombies. Third…while I don’t think he’s written any fiction, I’d have David Sedaris along. Why? Because laughter would be necessary in a post-apocalyptic zombie world.



2. If Stephen King and J. K. Rowling were drowning in a river, who would you save first? And now you have to tell us why.
Ernie says: Hah! Well, at least you didn’t ask me to pick only one. Supposing they can both be saved, I’d go with J. K. Rowling first, because anyone wealthier than the Queen of England likely has monetary access to excellent hitmen. I wouldn’t want her angry with me for not picking her first.



3. We authors are voracious readers. My TBR list is approximately 8 miles long. What are you currently reading?
Ernie says: I just finished reading The Martian again for the second time, in preparation for the movie release. Prior to that, I absolutely devoured Emily St. John Mandel’s Station Eleven. Brilliant, melancholy, and full of gorgeous writing that made me jealous of her talent.



4. What is the one book that you could read a million times and never get bored with?
Ernie says: Tomcat in Love, by Tim O’Brien. I’ve been recommending that book for years. Some of the things O’Brien does with language in that story are astounding.



5. Last year my favorite read was The Martian by Andy Weir. What was your best read of 2014?
Ernie says: It’s for sure a tossup between The Martian and Eleanor by Jason Gurley. The interesting thing is, both were originally indie-published works, and both went on to get picked up by Crown Publishing, a division of Random House. A refined version of Eleanor is due out in January 2016. Take note: I’m positive that Gurley will be one of our future literary giants.



6. This year my favorite read has been The Dog Stars by Peter Heller. What’s the best book you’ve read so far in 2015?
Ernie says: This has been the year of little reading, for a variety of reasons, so my choices are limited. But, I’d have to go with Station Eleven. I didn’t want it to end. Ever.



7. You’re a writer by day and a superhero by night. (Take off those geeky glasses Superman) What’s your superpower?
Ernie says: Telekinesis. Mostly I’d just like to be able to flick a finger and pick up all of the toddler toys, fling the laundry on hangers and in drawers, put the dishes away, and pour a glass of wine without having to get up from the couch. Forget fighting evil villains. I just want the chores to be done.



8. I have writing spots all over my house: my desk, my couch, the patio, and my bed. Where’s your favorite spot to write?
Ernie says: I’m such a creature of habit that I have to be tucked away in my little office, sitting at my cluttered desk. Trying to write anywhere else throws off the balance.



9. We’re supposed to love all of our children equally, but there are some scenes I’ve written that really stick out in my mind. Tell us your favorite scene from one of your books.
Ernie says: The climax/ending to Sara’s Game. My former agents felt the original ending could be quite a bit stronger and asked me to revamp it. I waffled with ideas for two or three days until the perfect resolution hit me. I’m convinced it contributed to the success that title has seen, and likely allowed me to keep doing this as a career.



10. Sometimes a little too much of myself slips into my characters. Which one of your characters most resembles you?
Ernie says: Wow. Um. All of them? Not counting the kidnappers and killers? The closest would probably be Chris (a.k.a. “Brick”) in Going Shogun. The witty everyman.



11. I’ve always got tunes rocking while I’m writing. Tell us five songs that are on your playlist.
Ernie says: I can’t actually write to music. At least not music with words. I’ve learned to manage most aspects of my ADD, but being able to write while someone else says words isn’t one of them. So, for me, it’s the soothing sounds of rain, ocean waves, or waterfalls in a jungle, with binaural beats in the background that are supposed to enhance creativity or concentration.



12. If you could tell an aspiring author one tiny tidbit of information, what would you say?
Ernie says: Use your adverbs sparingly, he said, conspiratorially.


Connect with ERNIE LINDSEY!




USA Today bestselling author Ernie Lindsey grew up in the Appalachian Mountains of southwest Virginia, working on the family farm and reading, and has spent his life telling stories to anyone that will listen. He is the author of thirteen mystery, thriller, and suspense books, along with numerous short stories. When he's not writing or reading the works of other thriller writers, you can find him chasing a toddler, feeding a toddler, or cleaning up after a toddler. He remembers non-toddler things, but they're flimsy, gauzy mysteries.
Ernie and his family live in Oregon, along with a multi-fingered Hemingway cat named Luna.
Head over to ErnieLindsey.com for more information, or join him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ErnieLindseyFiction

Sunday, October 25, 2015

Today's Authtoberfest featured author is Vincent Robert Annunziato!





Let's see what Vincent had to say about reading, writing and All Hallows' Eve!


1. It’s Halloween, pick 3 of your favorite writers to paint the town red with and tell us why you chose them.
VRA says:
a. Frankenstein – Mary Shelley
b. Dracula – Bram Stoker
c. Exorcist – William Blatty



2. You’re ready to head out with your pillowcase to collect loads of confections on All Hallows’ Eve, what’s your costume and why did you choose it?
VRA says: Well I’d say I don’t really need one. I’m pretty scary. But I would love to choose the Hulk. He’s a massive beast who nobody messes with when he’s angry.


3. Old Mrs. Robinson opens her door and you’re holding open your pillowcase patiently waiting. “Oh deary,” she says in her frail, little old-lady voice. “I forgot it was Halloween. Don’t know why you kids go begging anyways. Let me go find something to give you.” She shuffles off and finally returns three and a half minutes later with 5 pennies, 2 peppermint candies that look like they went through the dryer, and her deceased husbands dentures. “Take what you like,” she offers, squinting at you. What do you choose and why.
VRA says: 5 pennies. I can still buy gum with it.


4. I really love reading Dean Koontz but some of his stuff scares the bejesus out of me. What’s the spookiest book you’ve ever read?
VRA says: The Exorcist


5. You’re a writer by day and supernatural creature by night. (Shed that human skin you sack of bones) What are you?
VRA says: I’ll take Angel of Light for $500 Meredith.


6. Every author has a bookshelf filled with his or her favorite reads. Run on over to yours and tell us the scariest book you have.
VRA says: Exorcist – William Blatty


7. We don’t all write horror but there comes a time when you’ve got to surprise your readers and make sure their hearts are still beating. How do you prepare yourself to get in the spooky writing mood?
VRA says: For me the characters become real. So, it’s not a mood it’s a forced motive. As I am searching the plotlines and moving the characters through them, the potential for physical, emotional and spiritual dilemmas are always present.


8. Stephen King’s front porch light is on but there are no Halloween decorations.
Do you:
a. trick-or-treat and cross your fingers that he’s handing out the good stuff
b. run screaming
c. call your mom to bring your favorite King paperback and beg for an autograph
VRA says: I’m all in on calling mom to get the autograph.


9. Congratulations, you just won the literary lottery and sold a million books at full price! The royalty check clears on October 28th. What are you buying for the neighborhood kids?
a. an assortment of mini candybars
b. an assortment of cheap, hard candies
c. full size Hershey bars
VRA says: Definitely C, but I don’t know if there would be any left to hand out!


10. Your writer friend calls you with some frightening news. They’re giving up on writing, can’t take the pressure any longer. What do you tell them?
VRA says: Take a chill pill. Order up a Gran Marnier on the rocks and have a very long discussion.


Connect with Vincent Robert Annunziatio!





Author bio:

33 Degrees was selected as a Kindle Scout winner for publication. Thank you to all my fans who voted and helped get 33 noticed!
Vincent Robert Annunziato is a native Long Islander who currently resides with his wife and family in Virginia. He graduated Sachem High School and received a B.S. Degree from Hofstra University in Television Science. Vincent spent several years in Hollywood working for various production companies. He eventually wound up landing a job with the government, marrying a wonderful woman and raising three beautiful children. After thinking the dream of becoming a writer had passed him by, Vincent wrote his first novel on an Amazon Kindle HD tablet while commuting to work 2 hours each way.


Saturday, October 24, 2015

Today's Authtoberfest featured author is the multitalented Fiona Quinn!



1. It’s Halloween, pick 3 of your favorite writer buddies to paint the town read with and tell us why you chose them.
Fiona says: I would pick Donna White Glaser, author of Scrying Shame, Jill Nojack, author of The familiar, and you, Meredith Pritchard, author of Let Her Go. Each of you has a very interesting and very different take on a “haunting” story. I bet if we hung out with a blood orange martini or two, we’d be cackling.
Meredith says: OMG! Someone finally picked me! I no longer feel like the last kid standing during dodgeball team pickings. I love martinis!



2. You’re ready to head out with your pillowcase to collect loads of confections on All Hallows’ Eve, what’s your costume and why did you choose it?
Fiona says: I am traditionally a witch all day long. Each year, I change my garb (sometimes my hair color) depending on my mood, but you can usually find me, besom (broom) in hand, turning heads with my floor length cape.

As a matter of fact, my house is something of a holiday attraction. I get hundreds of people ringing my doorbell on Halloween. I am extra horribly mean to them, and they seem to love it. I have adults, whose kids grew up in the neighborhood and are now out of the nest, and now the adults dress up in a costume to come to my house so I will yell at them.

No costume? No candy – also, at my house it’s “you do a trick then you get a treat”. I’ve had kids sing songs, tell jokes, recite poems, and bust-a-move. It’s pretty entertaining. So if you want someone to scream at you (I used to be a professional screamer – but that’s another story for another day), just head on over – but have a class-A trick up your sleeve.



3. Old Mrs. Robinson opens her door and you’re holding open your pillowcase patiently waiting. “Oh deary,” she says in her frail, little old-lady voice. “I forgot it was Halloween. Don’t know why you kids go begging anyways. Let me go find something to give you.” She shuffles off and finally returns three and a half minutes later with 5 pennies, 2 peppermint candies that look like they went through the dryer, and her deceased husband’s dentures. “Take what you like,” she offers, squinting at you.
What do you choose and why.
Fiona says: The deceased husband’s dentures. It’ll make a great story and decoration (bleach first) for later.



3. I really love reading Dean Koontz but some of his stuff scares the bejesus out of me. What’s the spookiest book you’ve ever read?
Fiona says: Holy moly – The Behrg’s HOUSEBROKEN – not spooky as much as oh so creepy, nightmare inducing, that voice, argh!



4. You’re a writer by day and supernatural creature by night. (Shed that human skin you sack of bones) What are you and why?
Fiona says: An owl – amazing speed, stealth capabilities, nocturnal eyesight and hunting abilities, incredibly strong clawed feet, muscular wings. The owl is a formidable night creature. I’d like to feel that kind of power.
Meredith says: I love owls!


6. Every author has a bookshelf filled with his or her favorite reads. Run on over to yours and tell us the scariest book you have.
Fiona says: True Ghost Stories of Ireland – I bought it when I was visiting Limerick with my grandmother and have never been able to finish it for fear that the ghosts came home with the book and by reading it, I would release them.



7. We don’t all write horror but there comes a time when you’ve got to surprise your readers and make sure their hearts are still beating. How do you prepare yourself to get in the spooky writing mood?
Fiona says: I have a few of them in my books, I wasn’t prepared for them; they came out of nowhere. I thought the scene would go in one direction, and as the words formed on the screen, they went in a very different direction, taking me by surprise.



8. Stephen King’s front porch light is on but there are no Halloween decorations.
Do you:
a) trick-or-treat and cross your fingers that he’s handing out the good stuff
b) run screaming
c) call your mom to bring your favorite King paperback and beg for an autograph
Fiona says: A. I’m not a big Stephen King fan. I am a fan of chocolate; I’d take my chances.



9. Congratulations, you just won the literary lottery and sold a million books at full price! The royalty check clears on October 28th. What are you buying for the neighborhood kids?
a) an assortment of mini candybars
b) an assortment of cheap, hard candies
c) full size Hershey bars
Fiona says: A million books full price? Okay, I’d splurge for the full sized chocolate bars, but I’m not kidding about the number of people we have come by the house. One year we counted almost 500. We did a lot more decorating back when that happened (I had teens to help out) but still, there will be hundreds… a million books you say? If you cast your magic wand about and bring that to fruition, I’ll spring for Godiva.



10. Your writer friend calls you with some frightening news. They’re giving up on writing, can’t take the pressure any longer. What do you tell them?
Fiona says: “That’ll last about an hour. Writers have to write like they have to breathe. They have to write like they need water to survive. So, have a glass of wine. Eat some really good chocolate. Turn on a good sappy movie so you can have a good cry. And tomorrow morning put your butt in front of your screen and start hammering out those words.”


Connect with Fiona!




Canadian born, Fiona Quinn is now rooted in the Old Dominion outside of D.C. with her husband and four children. There, she homeschools, pops chocolates, devours books, and taps continuously on her laptop.


Friday, October 23, 2015

Today's Authtoberfest featured author is Rob Blackwell!



1. It’s the zombie apocalypse and writers have got to stick together to survive. Pick 3 authors to be on your zombie apocalypse killing team and tell us why you’d choose them.
Rob says: Stephen King – He wrote a truly great zombie book called “Cell,” so he knows how to fight the undead.
Neil Gaiman – I’ve never seen a more creative writer. He’ll think up new ways to slice and dice the zombie horde.
Suzanne Collins – Have you read the Hunger Games series? Collins has spent a LOT of time thinking about ways to kill people. She’d be the perfect ally.



2. If Stephen King and J. K. Rowling were drowning in a river, who would you save first? And now you have to tell us why.
Rob says: Stephen King, cause I worship the man. J.K. Rowling gave me 7 amazing books, King has given me 50+. It’s a game of numbers. Sorry, Jo!



3. We authors are voracious readers. My TBR list is approximately 8 miles long. What are you currently reading?
Rob says: “Boundary Lines” by Melissa F. Olson and “You” by Karoline Kepnes.



4. What is the one book that you could read a million times and never get bored with?
Rob says: “Lord of the Rings” by Tolkien. Such a great epic adventure



5. Last year my favorite read was The Martian by Andy Weir. What was your best read of 2014?
Rob says: “Joyland” by Stephen King. What I loved about it is that it really wasn’t supposed to be scary. Instead, it was a coming of age novel not unlike “The Body,” which was turned into the movie Stand by Me. I thought Joyland was very moving and I had a hard time putting it down.



6. This year my favorite read has been The Dog Stars by Peter Heller. What’s the best book you’ve read so far in 2015?
Rob says: “Bone Clocks” by David Mitchell. The man’s ability to merge genres – historical fiction, urban fantasy, post-apocalyptic sci-fi – into a cohesive narrative is fantastic. I’m in absolute awe of Mitchell’s writing ability.



7. You’re a writer by day and a superhero by night. (Take off those geeky glasses Superman) What’s your superpower?
Rob says: I can summon monsters to do my will (so maybe this makes me a supervillain).



8. I have writing spots all over my house: my desk, my couch, the patio, and my bed. Where’s your favorite spot to write?
Rob says: I will write anywhere at any time. I wrote my first novel on a Palm Pilot while commuting on the subway. But I will break out the laptop or Kindle anywhere I can get a spare five minutes.



9. We’re supposed to love all of our children equally, but there are some scenes I’ve written that really stick out in my mind. Tell us your favorite scene from one of your books.
Rob says: My favorite scene that I’ve ever written was probably in Give the Devil His Due, the third book in my Sanheim Chronicles trilogy. The book has a lot of action, including a war between mythical creatures in the finale. But the best scene for me was a relatively small one in which a major character had to sacrifice himself to help the protagonists. In the scene, he gets to see his life in reverse as if he’s watching a movie. As the movie rewinds to the beginning of his life, the character slowly dies. I like the scene largely because it was a surprise even to me. I knew the character was going to die, but I didn’t know how until I sat down to write it.



10. Sometimes a little too much of myself slips into my characters. Which one of your characters most resembles you?
Rob says: Quinn O’Brion, the protagonist from the Sanheim Chronicles. He’s a reporter like me, falls in love with a beautiful woman (who looks a little like my wife) and generally responds to the world in a similar way that I do.



11. I’ve always got tunes rocking while I’m writing. Tell us five songs that are on your playlist.
Rob says: I write to music, but it has to be instrumental otherwise lyrics from songs end up in my writing. As a result, I listen to a lot of movie and video game soundtracks or “epic trailer” music by groups like Two Steps from Hell and Audiomachine. Some of my favorites at the moment are: “Victory” and “Flight of the Silverbird” by Two Steps, “Between Heaven and Earth” by Audiomachine, “Bynn the Breaker” by Darren Korb and “Zealous Champion” by Tom Salta.



12. If you could tell an aspiring author one tiny tidbit of information, what would you say?
Rob says: Just do it. Stop thinking about writing and write. Finish what you write, edit what you finish, publish what you edit. Rinse and repeat.



Connect with Rob!




Rob is an award-winning journalist with 15 years' experience and the author of The Sanheim Chronicles and The Soren Chase novels, two series that combine urban fantasy, mystery and suspense.
His first novel, A Soul to Steal, was featured on USA Today and praised by book bloggers and readers alike for its great plot and "fantastic ending." Many of his other books have been Kindle bestsellers in the Dark Fantasy category.
As a journalist, Rob has won several Virginia Press Association awards and was co-winner of the Jesse H. Neal Award for Business Journalism. He has appeared several times on other media outlets, including NPR, BBC, CNBC and C-Span.
You can find out more about him on his Facebook page, at www.facebook.com\asoultosteal or on Twitter at @abwashbureau.
Rob lives in Virginia with his wife and two children.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Today's Authtoberfest featured author is M. Lauryl Lewis!




1. It’s the zombie apocalypse and writers have got to stick together to survive. Pick 3 authors to be on your zombie apocalypse killing team and tell us why you’d choose them.
M. Lauryl Lewis says: Hands down, it'd be these three kick-butt women: Shana Festa, Rhiannon Frater, and Bijou Hunter! Shana because she has a wickedly awesome sense of humor and the ability to be creative when it comes to getting out of sticky (bloody) situations. Rhiannon, honestly, because she is one of my all-time favorite zompoc authors. She was a major inspiration for me to become an author. Bijou writes dark romance. She's also one of the strongest women and mothers I know. She has helped me through some tough times in my personal life, has always been "real" with me, and her writing is awesome.



2. If Stephen King and J. K. Rowling were drowning in a river, who would you save first? And now you have to tell us why.
M. Lauryl Lewis says: Hmm. I'm going to take the graceful way out in this and say Stephen King, because he was closer to the edge of the river. :-) On a more serious note, I see "celebrities" as "just people." Yes, both are extremely accomplished authors who have given us so much in the way of dreaming and entertainment. That being said, I honestly would have to chose based on who I could get to first since I see us all as equals.



3. We authors are voracious readers. My TBR list is approximately 8 miles long. What are you currently reading?
M. Lauryl Lewis says: I actually just began the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon.



4. What is the one book that you could read a million times and never get bored with?
M. Lauryl Lewis says: Neanderthal by John Darnton. I have a paperback copy that I first read when I was well, younger. I re-read it every few years. I highly recommend it.



5. Last year my favorite read was The Martian by Andy Weir. What was your best read of 2014?
M. Lauryl Lewis says: Oh - without a doubt TIME of DEATH: Induction, by Shana Festa. She's a newer zompoc author and she is hot in the genre! I admit, once I was finished with book one I stalked her down and begged for an ARC to read & review for the sequel.



6. This year my favorite read has been The Dog Stars by Peter Heller. What’s the best book you’ve read so far in 2015?
M. Lauryl Lewis says: I've had a hard time finding a good book so far this year. I've started so many and given up. My head hasn't been in a very good place with personal issues going on (one of my little boys is fighting cancer). Of all the attempts I've made to get lost in a great book, the one I found myself craving more of is The Complex by J. Rudolph.



7. You’re a writer by day and a superhero by night. (Take off those geeky glasses Superman) What’s your superpower?
M. Lauryl Lewis says: My super power is the ability to take a nap whenever given the chance! It's one of my favorite activities and I strive to be super at it. My love of naps began when I worked night shift as an RN for years. I would come home to my family, which includes a husband, three little boys, dogs, and cats. It's forced me to become super at looking awake and not always being. Most of my writing happens late at night when the kids are in bed and the husband is at work. I nap when I can to make up for the long hours of being a mother and an author.



8. I have writing spots all over my house: my desk, my couch, the patio, and my bed. Where’s your favorite spot to write?
M. Lauryl Lewis says: I have an easy chair and ottoman in our living room. Most of my writing takes place there. I also keep a TV-tray (those folding tables we used as children to eat frozen dinners for TV night) that I take with me as a portable office. I spend a lot of hours with my son at the local children's hospital, so the TV tray has become a 2nd favorite. I attempted to hang a hammock in the back yard for summer writing, but my four dogs decided it was fun to try to drool me to death and my English Mastiff tries to lay on me.



9. We’re supposed to love all of our children equally, but there are some scenes I’ve written that really stick out in my mind. Tell us your favorite scene from your book GRACE LOST.
M. Lauryl Lewis says: Grace Lost follows a small group of survivors as they try to survive during the zombie apocalypse. One of my favorite scenes is a really emotionally draining one. A pregnant character goes into early labor and delivers a living (but tiny) baby. Both mother and baby die. Twice.
Why on earth would that be my favorite scene? I know, it sounds horrible. The scene, though, well...I put so much of my own emotions into that scene. It was difficult to write. It's difficult to read. Many readers say it's a tear-jerker.



10. Sometimes a little too much of myself slips into my characters. Which one of your characters most resembles you?
M. Lauryl Lewis says: Ha ha - love this question! There is so much of myself in my protagonist, Zoe. The funny thing about that is that so many reviews have mentioned how much they HATE Zoe! She is 20 years old, naive, very inexperienced in life, a bit clueless, and very whiny. I strive to make all of my characters realistic. Unlike my super power of napping, none of my characters have super power abilities. They are not expert weapon-wielders. They make some bad decisions. They are very intentionally flawed. I do this in order to make the story realistic. So, yes, Zoe has a lot of me within her. I make her react how I imagine I would if the living dead were trying to eat me. She cries. She vomits. She asks a lot of questions. She allows the bigger, stronger men in the story protect her.



11. I’ve always got tunes rocking while I’m writing. Tell us five songs that are on your playlist.
M. Lauryl Lewis says: 
What Does the Fox Say
Hallelujah
Last Kiss
Home
Dollhouse



12. If you could tell an aspiring author one tiny tidbit of information, what would you say?
M. Lauryl Lewis says: If you want to write, do it!



Connect with M. Lauryl Lewis!



M. Lauryl was born in Portland, Oregon, but grew up near Seattle, Washington. She lives near the Cascade Foothills with her husband and their three young sons, their dogs, and cats. She recently retired after an eighteen year career as a registered nurse in order to write full time while being at home with her children.
She has learned recently, after almost losing one of her children, to enjoy each and every day for what it is, savoring the good along with the bad. She can be found camping, fishing, reading, writing, or enjoying simple pleasures like cooking dinner or staring at the Cascade mountain range from her front porch. Her favorite places to vacation are polar opposites, Alaska and Hawaii. She is a huge lover of Mike 'N Ikes and hot-tubbing!
Ever since young childhood, she has enjoyed the horror genre. The scarier the better!
She loves to connect with readers! Reach her at:
www.facebook.com/mlauryllewis
@mlauryllewis
http://www.zombieauthor.com

Sunday, October 18, 2015

Today's Authtoberfest featured author is Shaun Allan!




1. It’s Halloween, pick 3 of your favorite writers to paint the town red with and tell us why you chose them.
Shaun says: Well, there’s a question and a half! Over the years I’ve had many favourite authors, including Tolkien, Arthur C. Clarke, Isaac Asimov, David Eddings, Terry Brooks, Clive Barker and, of course, Stephen King and Dean Koontz. That’s without mentioning Harper Lee, who was the real inspiration behind me wanting to be a writer – asd the reason I have mockingbirds tattooed on my arm.
     As for whom I’d like to take out with me, hmmm… Dean Koontz would have to be there. I’d want to talk to him about his character ‘Odd Thomas’. I finished reading Saint Odd, the seventh book in the series, whilst in hospital last week. I couldn’t sleep so spent the night reading this. I love the character (not least because I think he and Sin would get along mighty fine) and have been captivated by each book. Saint Odd was the final story and I’m pleased to say, Koontz brought it to a fitting finale, giving Odd a wonderful send off and granting his long term wish.
     Stephen King would need to be there. He’s been with me for so long, it’d be rude not to invite him. I haven’t enjoyed every book he’s written (as with Koontz), but those I have – and there’s been many – I have lost myself in. And, he created Pennywise, one of my favourite horror characters.
     The final place, would be hard to fill. Clive Barker’s imagination is wonderfully vivid and warped – and he brought us Pinhead. He also showed me you can write about seemingly mundane placed and turn them into something much more. Before I read some of his work (I think it was Weaveworld in particular), I struggled to find a path. Now, I centre my stories on where I live, somewhere many would find boring, but I don’t. Not now I lift the pavement and look what’s crawling beneath. But what about Neil Gaiman? If for no other book than The Ocean at the End of the Lane, which will feature high on my top ten list of books for the rest of my life. Plus, I own a barbers and I’d love to have him sit in one of my chairs!
    But, I think the remaining seat would have to be David Eddings. Together with his wife, Leigh, he and his character Garion led me to wondrous places with amazing people. I’d love to meet Aunt Pol and Belgarath and talk about all the strange adventures they went on. The Belgariad was one of the first fantasy series I ever read, and the only one I’ve re-read.



2. You’re ready to head out with your pillowcase to collect loads of confections on All Hallows’ Eve, what’s your costume and why did you choose it?
Shaun says: I actually own two costumes. One is Pinhead, from Hellraiser and the other is the Mad Hatter.
    Pinhead is another of my favourite horror characters. He’s calm, collected and evil, and inhabits a world full of promises and pain. I wore this costume for my engagement party, with full head mask complete with pins, which was held on Halloween!
    The Mad Hatter costume was worn for my daughters’ birthday party (their birthdays are 4 days apart, plus 8 years). We had an Alice in Wonderland theme and I had full face makeup, wig and everything. Mr. Hatter is tapped and weird and perfectly crazy.
    For the fun factor, I’d go as the Mad Hatter, but, if I felt like being scary, it’d have to be Pinhead.



3. Old Mrs. Robinson opens her door and you’re holding open your pillowcase patiently waiting. “Oh deary,” she says in her frail, little old-lady voice. “I forgot it was Halloween. Don’t know why you kids go begging anyways. Let me go find something to give you.” She shuffles off and finally returns three and a half minutes later with 5 pennies, 2 peppermint candies that look like they went through the dryer, and her deceased husbands dentures. “Take what you like,” she offers, squinting at you.
What do you choose and why.
Shaun says: It would have to be either the pennies or the dentures. The pennies would probably have been used to lay on his eyes and pay Charon, the Ferryman, for crossing the River Styx into Hades.
    The teeth would have used to eat the buffet meal you were given whilst you waited for his ferry to come to port. You never used to get a buffet, but competition is rife and there’s always someone wanting to muscle in. A little buffet and, perhaps, a small glass of wine, can make all the difference.



3. I really love reading Dean Koontz but some of his stuff scares the bejesus out of me. What’s the spookiest book you’ve ever read?
Shaun says: Oh, I’ve read so many. I think the spookiest will most likely be a Clive Barker one. His imagination is so bizarre and he takes you into such strange worlds, I’m sure one of his would be the winner. Weaveworld, perhaps, or Imajica.



4. You’re a writer by day and supernatural creature by night. (Shed that human skin you sack of bones) What are you and why?
Shaun says: Well, I’ve just looked on a list of supernatural beings and saw Frosty the Snowman was classed as one… I think, if I was going to be one, it would have to be something a bit warmer than dear Frosty. Once I’m out of this skin, I pick up my scythe, pull on a cloak and clock in on my night job as the Grim Reaper.
    I tend to write quite a lot about Death and Mr. Grim. Sin, in my novel, wonders about him, and, in Dark Places, there’s a story called ‘I Am Death’, in which he contemplates life as he prepares to take his next soul. He’s not inherently good or evil. He just is and does what he must.



5. Every author has a bookshelf filled with his or her favorite reads. Run on over to yours and tell us the scariest book you have.
Shaun says: I’d have to pick up my ereader. I had many books but no space so I ‘went digital’ instead. It’s quite funny, really, that 17 years or so ago, I was on Sky TV discussing digital publishing vs traditional methods, going up against someone from Curtis Brown. They didn’t think it would take off, but now I have a library in my back pocket!
    For my scartiest book, I think it’s likely to be The Scarlet Gospels, the latest Clive Barker book. I’ve yet to read it, having just finished Saint Odd and wanting to work on my And the Meek Shall Walk story (a more savage retelling of The Little Mermaid, inspired by my 12 year old daughter!) but, as it’s the continuing story of Pinhead, I think it’s safe to say it’ll be scary!



6. We don’t all write horror but there comes a time when you’ve got to surprise your readers and make sure their hearts are still beating. How do you prepare yourself to get in the spooky writing mood?
Shaun says: I find it so easy! I think it’s because of Sin. I’ve spent so long with the character and his ‘issues’ (he took me ten years to write and he’s still going strong now), I found I could slip into his persona without any effort. I call him my ‘dark half’ as he’s so much a part of me. As such, walking on the dark side of my psyche (that’s with an ‘e’ not an ‘o’, as Sin would say) comes almost naturally. I believe you can’t have the light without the darkness and, if my writing is the darkness, my life has plenty of light!



8. Stephen King’s front porch light is on but there are no Halloween decorations.
Do you:
a) trick-or-treat and cross your fingers that he’s handing out the good stuff
b) run screaming
c) call your mom to bring your favorite King paperback and beg for an autograph
Shaun says: Trick or treat, definitely. Who knows what strange things might happen if you ring his doorbell. The lack of decorations is obvious. He needs no ceremony for horror to put on a show.



9. Congratulations, you just won the literary lottery and sold a million books at full price! The royalty check clears on October 28th. What are you buying for the neighborhood kids?
a) an assortment of mini candybars
b) an assortment of cheap, hard candies
c) full size Hershey bars
Shaun says: If it’s candy, it would be full size – though Hersheys aren’t something we’re that familiar with here in the UK. If I’ve won, I wouldn’t hold back on mini anything. I’d prefer, however, to invest in a library. I love to hear children (and adults) reading. I’ve met adults who never read – why would you when you can see the movie? If I can inspire one child to turn a page, I’d be a happy man. As I was sent a photo, last year, of a young boy dressed as his favourite literary character for World Book Day – and it was my very own Vampire Cat from Zits’n’Bits, I think I may have done that!



10. Your writer friend calls you with some frightening news. They’re giving up on writing, can’t take the pressure any longer. What do you tell them?
Shaun says: I would tell them to pick up a book and read. Enter another world to help them continue the adventures in their own. Then I’d say they should write for themselves and no-one else. There shouldn’t be pressure to write, it should be natural and fulfilling. Any pressure simply places another brick on the dam of imagination. I’m blessed that my own work has been so well received, and I’m humbled by the opportunities I’ve had, such as writing for Universal and DC Comics – but with it all, I write because it’s such an urge, if I didn’t the words would dribble out of my nose. I write because I enjoy it and I can’t imagine not doing so. I don’t write for anyone or anything else.


Connect with Shaun!





A writer of many prize winning short stories and poems, Shaun Allan has written for more years than he would perhaps care to remember. Having once run an online poetry and prose magazine, he has appeared on Sky television to debate, against a major literary agent, the pros and cons of internet publishing as opposed to the more traditional method. Many of his personal experiences and memories are woven into Sin's point of view and sense of humour although he can't, at this point, teleport.

Saturday, October 17, 2015

Today's Authtoberfest featured author is Terry Maggert!



1. It’s the zombie apocalypse and writers have got to stick together to survive. Pick 3 authors to be on your zombie apocalypse killing team and tell us why you’d choose them.
Terry says: That’s easy. You need to assemble a team of people who are so morally bankrupt that they won’t balk at the most gruesome crimes against humanity. You also need to select people who can organize the kind of mission that requires a level of expertise we rarely see. That’s why I’ll pick three people—my editor Jennifer Clark Sell (I imagine her screaming at zombies as she decapitates them, “THAT is a dangling participle, bitch!”) as well as Amber Dalcourt (She’s a veteran of corporate nonsense. I see her working out a lot of frustration with each killing stroke). The final cog will be my distant twitter friend Peter Cawdron. He’s an Aussie and a natural fan of science, so his contribution would be dual—a desire to understand the outbreak, and then the wherewithal to feed the Zeds to any nearby animals. In Australia, EVERYTHING eats people. It seems like a natural fit to have him on the team.



2. If Stephen King and J. K. Rowling were drowning in a river, who would you save first? And now you have to tell us why.
Terry says: J. K. Rowling, and the reason is science. Her lack of subcutaneous fat would assure her of drowning before Stephen King.



3. We authors are voracious readers. My TBR list is approximately 8 miles long. What are you currently reading?

Terry says: I feel you. I wish I never had to sleep, because that would free up valuable time for reading, writing, and eating pie. I’m in the middle of Islands of Rage and Hope by john Ringo. It’s gun porn with an accidental dose of zombies, and it’s fantastic.



4. What is the one book that you could read a million times and never get bored with? 
Terry says: The White Dragon by Anne McCaffrey. I’ve loved it since I first cracked the spine, and it never gets old. Rereading it is like a visit from a best friend.



5. Last year my favorite read was The Martian by Andy Weir. What was your best read of 2014? 
Terry says: I was introduced to clockpunk through a book titled “Chasing the Star Garden” by Melanie Karsak. It was utterly unique to me. I found the vibe/atmosphere to be a little like Indian food—different, zesty, but demanding my attention.



6. This year my favorite read has been The Dog Stars by Peter Heller. What’s the best book you’ve read so far in 2015? 
Terry says: Dave Vs. the Monsters by John Birmingham. Dave is a foul mouthed reprobate who kills demons, and I loved every page of it.



7. You’re a writer by day and a superhero by night. (Take off those geeky glasses Superman) What’s your superpower? 
Terry says: I would be known as Ursu the Bearmaster. I would control a cavalry of bears.I would ride one of the bears, and my friends could ride the others. We would take them to car washes, keep them looking clean and fluffy, and trim their nails. We would get our way anywhere and everywhere. Seriously—are YOU going to tell me I can’t have extra bread at a restaurant? Not when I have sixty bears high-fiving me in your parking lot.



8. I have writing spots all over my house: my desk, my couch, the patio, and my bed. Where’s your favorite spot to write? 
Terry says: Checkered chair. Two cats on either side, one dog present. Large drink of tea/coffee/water. Legs extended onto the ottoman, feet tucked left under right. It’s between 10 PM and 3 AM, and the house is quiet around me. That spot, that confluence of elements—it’s perfect. If there is pie, even better. If there is pie and milk, then I will dominate. And then nap.



9. We’re supposed to love all of our children equally, but there are some scenes I’ve written that really stick out in my mind. Tell us your favorite scene from your book "Halfway Dead". 
Terry says: That’s easy—it’s the first scene. Carlie (a witch) kills a disgusting Wendigo with an enchanted pebble. I could tell you it’s a metaphor for David and Goliath or girl power or some other nonsense, but the truth is that among mythological creatures, there are few things more grotesque than a Wendigo. Having small, intense woman execute one in the first scene was both squishy gross and deeply satisfying. It sets the tone for the book and lets the reader know that Carlie, despite her stature, is not to be trifled with.



10. Sometimes a little too much of myself slips into my characters. Which one of your characters most resembles you? 
Terry says: I get accused of being Ring Hardigan because he has dark hair and likes beer, fishing, and naked women. We are CLEARLY different people. He’s 6’3. I’m 6’2. So there.



11. I’ve always got tunes rocking while I’m writing. Tell us five songs that are on your playlist.
Terry says: WELL OKAY. 1) The Cult “Rise”, because I love them and I must rock. 2) Yaz “Only You” because Alison Moyet’s voice is so expressive, it urges me to write with more emotion. 3) Anything by Lera Lynn. I want to marry her voice. 4) Nothing But Thieves “Trip Switch”. The bass line is hypnotic. 5) Queen. Anything by Queen. (Seriously, Kanye, don’t ever try to sing Queen again. Ever.)



12. If you could tell an aspiring author one tiny tidbit of information, what would you say? 
Terry says: Ignore and mock every single person who gives you advice IF they say that serious writers don’t do the following: 1) Write Science Fiction of Fantasy. 2) Write more than one book a year. 3) Want to make a living as a writer. To those people, I say go straight to hell and take your elitist idiocy with you. Was that too harsh? Heh.


Connect with Terry Maggert!



Left-handed. Father of an apparent nudist. Husband to a half-Norwegian. Herder of cats and dogs. Lover of pie. I write books.

Friday, October 16, 2015

Today's Authtoberfest featured author is Michaelbrent Collings!




1. It’s the zombie apocalypse and writers have got to stick together to survive. Pick 3 authors to be on your zombie apocalypse killing team and tell us why you’d choose them.
Michaelbrent says:
Stephen King, Larry Correia, George R.R. Martin.
Stephen King – come ON. The dude probably knows more about apocalyptic stuff than anyone else alive. I'm sure he'd be a valuable resource.
Larry Correia – Larry's the bestselling author of the Monster Hunter International series, which gives him automatic cred in all things monsters. Plus: he's HUGE. And always armed. Most authors are (less face it) less than imposing physically. This dude is bigger than Conan.
George R. R. Martin – not to put too fine a point on it, but I think I could outrun him. Always a good idea not to be the slowest guy on the team.



2. If Stephen King and J. K. Rowling were drowning in a river, who would you save first? And now you have to tell us why.
Michaelbrent says: J.K. Rowling. They are both huge contributors to popular culture, and I hear they're really nice. But Rowling is younger, and has younger kids. Also, she's a woman – and I know it may be sexist, but I was raised in a "women and children first" kind of home.
Plus, there's a greater chance that King is a witch. So he'd survive.



3. We authors are voracious readers. My TBR list is approximately 8 miles long. What are you currently reading?
Michaelbrent says: I'm currently reading 14 by Peter Clines, Abigail and John: Portrait of a Marriage by Edith Gelles, Swan Song by Robert McCammon, His Majesty's Dragon by Naomi Novik, and Sammy the Shark by Bobby Bishop. The last one is what I read with my toddler, so don't judge. The others sit happily atop various toilet tanks in my house, since I have four kids and pretty much everything but bathroom time has turned into a team sport. In fact, I don't even call it a bathroom anymore. I call it "my tiny tiny office with a fairly comfy chair and a lock."



4. What is the one book that you could read a million times and never get bored with?
Michaelbrent says: Crap. Really? Crap. Uhhh… Ender's Game springs to mind. I read it as a kid and have returned to it a dozen or so times over the years. A million reads might be a bit much, but it's got at least a few more reads in it.



5. Last year my favorite read was The Martian by Andy Weir. What was your best read of 2014?
Michaelbrent says: Gah! Really? I can't do things like that. My favorite book is always any good book I'm reading now. Books are there to fit my mood and fit my life, and any time they do that, they are a treasure. Plus, if I'm being honest, I can't remember as far back as 2014. I'm a writer, which is French for "generally incompetent," so asking me to remember anything farther back than when I put my shoes on this morning (on the wrong feet) is pretty much a lost cause.
Though I do remember I read Sammy the Shark. A lot.



6. This year my favorite read has been The Dog Stars by Peter Heller. What’s the best book you’ve read so far in 2015?
Michaelbrent says: See above. Double gah.



7. You’re a writer by day and a superhero by night. (Take off those geeky glasses Superman) What’s your superpower?
Michaelbrent says: My superpower is to let others see themselves the way I do. I think one of the saddest things about human nature is that we so often seem determined to see ourselves in the worst possible light, then attempt to live down to that expectation. But people are mostly awesome, and the better they know that, the better they tend to treat those around them.
Meredith says: I love this.


8. I have writing spots all over my house: my desk, my couch, the patio, and my bed. Where’s your favorite spot to write?
Michaelbrent says: Honestly? Anyplace with wifi and a refillable soft drink. I work at restaurants, book stores, coffee shops. I tend to stay out of my house because I don't want to disrupt my wife's life too much – she's too good a woman to have me inflicted on her 24/7.



9.  We’re supposed to love all of our children equally, but there are some scenes I’ve written that really stick out in my mind. Tell us your favorite scene from your book.
Michaelbrent says: I think my favorite scene would probably be in my book This Darkness Light. It's an apocalyptic thriller where a hitman is told to kill a good person who may be holding a Doomsday virus. The hitman is a good person (he's a hitman with a heart of gold, and a priest to boot), and he starts to have reservations so a psychotic killer is sent with him to make sure he stays on target. During one scene the psycho threatens the hitman's loved ones, making it graphically clear he'd love to kill them – and worse. Then he starts singing showtunes and songs from Disney's Aladdin. Because psycho. Love that scene – chilling, thrilling, and strangely funny all in one.



10. Sometimes a little too much of myself slips into my characters. Which one of your characters most resembles you?
Michaelbrent says: Ken Strickland. He's the main character in The Colony Saga – a zombie apocalypse story with the most amped-up zombies you've ever seen – they're fast, they're evolving and learning as they go, and headshots just piss them off. Ken is an average guy who finds himself a survivor in the aftermath and just wants to stay one step ahead of the things that threaten him and his family. I'm not a teacher, but like Ken I'm just a normal guy – no superhuman powers that would give me an edge – I love my family and worry about them, and I think people are mostly good and would help each other in an Apocalypse. Also like Ken, I do karate. Kee-yah!



11. I’ve always got tunes rocking while I’m writing. Tell us five songs that are on your playlist.
Michaelbrent says:
Friday Night by Lilly Allen
Ants Marching by Dave Matthews Band
Walking on Air by Kerli
Find My Baby by Moby
Funhouse by Pink



12. If you could tell an aspiring author one tiny tidbit of information, what would you say?
Michaelbrent says: Wow – I assume by "aspiring writer" you mean "someone who'd like to do this for a living." To those people I say: it's a JOB. Don't go thinking you're going to puke up a masterwork on the first try, and that some agent will scoop it up in his/her magic barf bag and turn it into money. The average time for an author to "make it" ranges somewhere between five and sixteen thousand years. It's hard work, a second (or third) job for a long time before you make it. And even then, once you've made it you have to work your butt off doing marketing, PR appearances, and – oh, yeah – always writing your next book. Don't get me wrong, it's a cool job, and the best one I've ever had… but it's hard. Only those who give it their all – and then some – are going to stick around.


Connect with Michaelbrent Collings!



Michaelbrent Collings is one of the top indie horror writers in the US, one of Amazon's Most Popular Horror Writers (for three years and counting!), and an international bestseller in 40+ countries. He is also a produced screenwriter who works in Hollyweird, though he has never "done lunch" or engaged the services of a waxer.

His bestsellers include The Colony Saga, Strangers, Darkbound, Apparition, The Haunted, The Loon, and the YA fantasy series The Billy Saga.

He hopes someday to develop superpowers, and maybe get a cool robot arm.

Michaelbrent has a wife and several kids, all of whom are much better looking than he is (though he admits that's a low bar to set), and much MUCH cooler than he is (also a low bar).

He also has a Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/MichaelbrentCollings and can be followed on Twitter through his username @mbcollings.

Sign up at http://eepurl.com/VHuvX for advance notice of MbC's new releases, sales, and freebies. You will also be kept safe when the Glorious Revolution begins! MWA-hahahahaha!