Mary Ting Interview - Jaclyn and the Beanstalk

Photo Content from Mary Ting

Mary Ting is an international bestselling, award-winning author. She writes soulful, spellbinding stories that excite the imagination and captivate readers around the world. Her books span a wide range of genres, and her storytelling talents have earned a devoted legion of fans, as well as garnered critical praise.

Becoming an author happened by chance. It was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother, and inspired by a dream she had in high school. After realizing she wanted to become a full-time author, Mary retired from teaching after twenty years. She also had the privilege of touring with the Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children’s chapter book: No Bullies Allowed.

Mary resides in Southern California with her husband, two children, and two little dogs, Mochi and Mocha. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Being a huge Twilight fan, Mary was inspired to make book-themed jewelry and occasionally gives it away as prizes to her fans.

        

File Size: 2830 KB
Print Length: 214 pages
Publisher: Vesuvian Books (September 3, 2018)
Publication Date: September 3, 2018
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC
Language: English
ASIN: B07GL97KM5

Praise for JACLYN AND THE BEANSTALK

A mash-up of "Jack and the Beanstalk" and "Lord of the Rings" ... RECOMMENDED ―School Library Journal

"Keenly descriptive and eloquently written with touches of sixteenth-century language, the story takes the reader into the world of monsters controlled by a diabolical villain, and into a land of mystery and magic beans." ―Readers' Favorite Review

"Mary Ting managed to surprise me at every turn, even though I must have read this story a million times as a kid. The most impressive surprise was the creation of a girl protagonist who is so much better than the original Jack. Then she brings in the boy, Jack, as the love interest. Sheer genius and a great idea. The writing is great. The plot is good, and the various themes woven throughout the story make it a very compelling tale." ―Readers' Favorite Review

Mary Ting writes with an adventurous heart, a clever pen, introducing young readers to a classic that meets fantasy, shedding light on the family devotion and a love story that buds to completion by the end. This short novel comes as a highly recommended read for parents and young adults that prefer fantasy fiction with a Christian-based theme and a creative perspective. Mary Ting is one of those writers to notice and watch. ―Kingdom's Review

  

What’s one thing that readers would be surprised to find out about you?

I never wanted to be an author. The thought had never crossed my mind. I had taught kindergarten for almost 16 years when I decided to write my first book, Crossroads. It’s based on dreams I had in high school. Writing was a way for me to heal the loss of my grandmother. After a few years later, I retired from teaching and became a full-time author. Since then, I’ve written over 30 books.

When/how did you realize you had a creative dream or calling to fulfill? 

I couldn’t stop writing my first book. Though I was juggling my family, being a PTA mom, and my career, I always found time to write. Receiving emails from readers, asking me when book 2 would be released, gave me the drive to continue.

Can you tell us when you started JACLYN AND THE BEANSTALK, how that came about?

It all started with my agent, Italia Gandolfo. She saw a teaser I’d made for an anthology I’d written with a group of authors regarding twisted fairy tales. My story was Jaclyn and the Beanstalk. My agent loved the teaser and inspired me to write a full novel.

For those who are unfamiliar with Jaclyn, how would you introduce her?

Jaclyn’s story is set in 16th century. Her father trained her well because her faith was not like any other. Her parents secluded themselves from neighbors to keep her safe. So I would say, Jaclyn has a beautiful, curious heart. She knows how to wield a sword. She’s brave and will do anything to save her family.

What part of Jack did you enjoy writing the most?

I enjoyed how protective Jack was, but he also didn’t treat Jaclyn like a helpless woman. He encouraged her and helped her instead of demanding she stayed home.

You have the chance to give one piece of advice to your readers. What would it be?

Live your life to the fullest. No regrets. 

TEN REASONS TO READ JACLYN AND THE BEANSTALK

• 1. Optioned by Boilermarker Entertainment
• 2. Jaclyn-protagonist-brave girl
• 3. Romance with Jack
• 4. Beans, beanstalks, and treasures.
• 5. Action packed
• 6. Mysterious old witch who gave Jaclyn the beans will reappear throughout my other fairy tale stories to come.
• 7. Monsters-biblical twist
• 8. Learning lesson about love and forgiveness
• 9. 16th Century
• 10. Gender twist

What book would you recommend for others to read? 

Death by the River by Alexandrea Weis. I recently read this YA thriller novel and it was amazing. It took me a down a dark road of murder lust revenge. It’s a cautionary tale for young girls to look out for the wrong kind of guys. It Takes Death to Reach a Star by Gareth Worthington and Stu Jones. 7th Grade Revolution and The Journal of Angela Ashby by Liana Gardner.

Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published. 

I can’t even begin to tell you how amazing my publisher is. They go above and beyond. My novels have been advertised on billboards in Los Angeles, Publishers Weekly, and so much more. I also signed at Book Expo, which has been a dream of mine. AND ISAN-International Sensory Assassin Network, my other YA book is soon to be a major motion picture.

What were you doing at midnight last night?

Working on ISAN, book 3. 

If you could go back in time to one point in your life, where would you go?

I would go back to high school and read more books. 

What is the first book that made you cry? 

Gone with the Wind. 

What fate awaits a girl who hears monsters at night…

Sixteen-year-old Jaclyn looks up to her father. An honest man who once fought for the king, he now teaches Jaclyn how to use her wits—and her sword.

But he has a secret. And his secret may have a connection to the one thing Jaclyn is hiding from him. 

   

Upon hearing “monsters” are terrorizing the small villages around Black Mountain, Jaclyn’s father and his friends head out to hunt them … but they don’t return.

Armed only with her sword and three magic beans—a gift from a mysterious old woman—Jaclyn sets out for Black Mountain to save her father.

On her climb, one bean drops and grows into a beanstalk, catching her when she falls.

She isn’t the only one that takes the ride. Jack, her childhood friend and secret crush, is following her.

Jaclyn and Jack will have to work together to save not only their fathers, but the townspeople the beasts plan to lay waste to before it’s too late.

You can purchase Jaclyn and the Beanstalk at the following Retailers:

  

And now, The Giveaways.

Thank you MARY TING for making this giveaway possible.

Winner will receive a $25 Dollar PayPal/Amazon Gift Card.
Winner will receive a $20 Amazon Gift Card. 

WEEK ONE

DECEMBER 3rd MONDAY BookHounds YA INTERVIEW
DECEMBER 4th TUESDAY Movies, Shows, & Books GUEST POST
DECEMBER 5th WEDNESDAY Insane About Books REVIEW & EXCERPT
DECEMBER 6th THURSDAY A Backwards Story REVIEW & INTERVIEW
DECEMBER 7th FRIDAY Chrikaru Reads REVIEW & INTERVIEW
DECEMBER 7th FRIDAY Mythical Books GUEST POST
DECEMBER 8th SATURDAY Author Kelly Risser REVIEW & TENS LIST
DECEMBER 9th SUNDAY JeanBookNerd INTERVIEW

WEEK TWO
DECEMBER 10th MONDAY Casia's Corner REVIEW
DECEMBER 11th TUESDAY Lisa Loves Literature REVIEW
DECEMBER 12th WEDNESDAY Sabrina's Paranormal Palace REVIEW & EXCERPT
DECEMBER 13th THURSDAY The Avid Reader REVIEW
DECEMBER 14th FRIDAY RhythmicBooktrovert REVIEW & FAVORITE THINGS
DECEMBER 15th SATURDAY Port Jericho REVIEW & EXCERPT
DECEMBER 15th SATURDAY Crossroad Reviews REVIEW
DECEMBER 16th SUNDAY Bri's Book Nook REVIEW

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Mary Ting Author Interview

Photo Credit: Michelle England Delavara

Mary Ting is an international bestselling, award-winning author. She writes soulful, spellbinding stories that excite the imagination and captivate readers around the world. Her books span a wide range of genres, and her storytelling talents have earned a devoted legion of fans, as well as garnered critical praise.

Becoming an author happened by chance. It was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother, and inspired by a dream she had in high school. After realizing she wanted to become a full-time author, Mary retired from teaching after twenty years. She also had the privilege of touring with the Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children’s chapter book: No Bullies Allowed.

Mary resides in Southern California with her husband, two children, and two little dogs, Mochi and Mocha. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Being a huge Twilight fan, Mary was inspired to make book-themed jewelry and occasionally gives it away as prizes to her fans.

        

What was your first introduction to YA literature, the one that made you choose that genre to write?
I was at Costco one day. I decided to pick up a book to read during the summer. It had been a while since I picked up a book. Little did I know that I would be so hooked. I told all my friends to read it. Twilight was my first YA literature, the reason I love this genre.

What’s one thing that readers would be surprised to find out about you?
I am a founding member of Kappa Zeta Phi Asian Sorority at University Irvine. I enjoy oil painting and making jewelries. 

When did you write your first book and how old were you?
I started writing Crossroads about 3 years ago when my grandmother passed away. It helped me heal the loss of her. At what age? About 3 years younger…hehe!!!

What was the greatest thing you learned at school?
It was such a long time ago that I don’t remember much, but I wished I would have read a lot more books growing up.

How would you describe yourself in three words?
3 words....determine, creative, not afraid to try new things

Did you learn anything from writing Between and what was it?
Writing Between was so much fun. Since it was the second time around, I wasn’t afraid. I wanted it to be bigger and better than Crossroads. Because of my determination, I feel that I’ve grown as an author.

What was your inspiration for the series?
My inspiration for Crossroads was my grandmother and the two dreams I had in high school. Between’s inspiration was from my fans. Their support and the love for my characters have given me the courage and energy to make it better.

Which character have you enjoyed getting to know the most over the course of writing Crossroads?
I would have to say Claudia. In many ways her character is like me. In Between, her character grows. She is more stubborn, not afraid to speak up and comes to terms with her destiny.

What part of Michael did you enjoy writing the most?
For Michael, I enjoyed making him the protector. Also, his struggles, how he loves Claudia so much he would do anything for her.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
I honestly can’t choose one. Going through the process of writing a whole novel has given me a new found respect for all authors. I learn so much just from reading any books so I would have to say all authors are my mentors.

When asked, what’s the one question you always answer with a lie?
Hmmm…this is a hard question because I try to be honest. I guess it would have to be when I get asked how old I am. I don’t really lie, I just go around it…lol!!!

Who was your first boyfriend?
My first boyfriend’s name was Richard, but funny thing is….my husband’s name is Richard…lol!!! Not the same guy.

What's the worst summer job you've ever had?
I sold lifecycles over the phone. It was an easy job, making phone calls…right? So wrong!!! People yelled at me over the phone. Hey…I’m just trying to financially support myself through college. Give me a break…lol!!!

Who is the first person you call when you have a bad day?
My husband. He is my Michael, my guardian angel…hehe!

When was the last time you cried?
Last night. Seriously!!! Sometimes I get these strange dreams and stuff happens. Some I remember and some I don’t. But one thing for sure, I actually wake up crying with real tears.

As the Alkins head back to Crossroads, Claudia leads her normal life, but not for long. Having a special soul, she attracts danger. The Twelve, known as Divine Elders on Earth, are very much involved when they find out evil is lurking in the shadows and Claudia is no longer safe. As more secrets are revealed, Claudia learns about the Venators—demon hunters—on Earth.
When two opposing angelic forces come together to protect Claudia, trust becomes a big issue. Will love be enough to keep Claudia and Michael together? Who will make the ultimate sacrifice? Who will betray them all?

You can purchase Between at the following Retailers:

    

And now, The Giveaways.

Thank you MARY TING for making this giveaway possible.

3 Winners will receive one e-copy of Between by Mary Ting.

1 Winner will receive a book marker by Mary Ting.

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