Harriet Schultz Author Interview

Photo Content from Harriet Schultz

Harriet Schultz is an award-winning journalist whose career began at TIME where she was involved with the magazine’s Watergate coverage. She loves to travel and has visited all of the locations in her debut contemporary romantic suspense novel, Legacy of the Highlands. She and her husband, Edward, logged 1500 miles on their most receipt road trip through the Scottish Highlands. She lives in New England and is at work on a sequel to Legacy of the Highlands.

      

Tell us your latest news.
First, thank you for inviting me to meet your followers. It’s always fun to connect with readers.

I recently published a very short story that’s a prequel to my novel, Legacy of the Highlands. It was a kick to get inside the hero’s head and write from his point of view. The story’s called Lust and Honor and it’s free on Smashwords (http://www.smashwords.com/books/167836). Amazon won’t allow a price of less than $0.99, but if enough people ask, they may match Smashwords. Lust and Honor introduces the novel’s three main characters and I hope that readers will like it enough to want to read more.

Who or what has influenced your writing, and in what way?
There are so many people and life experiences that have influenced me in ways that are hard to define. My first job was as assistant to a Pulitzer Prize winner (David Halberstam), so his work (and loathing of commas!) was a definite inspiration. And my years at TIME magazine gave me great research and interviewing skills. I fell I love with Scotland’s dramatic beauty and history while putting 1500 miles on a rental car driving around the Highlands. That trip planted the seed that grew into the idea for the book.

When did you write your first book and how old were you?
Unlike many novelists who say they've been making up stories since they were five or six years old, my career has been in journalism and I never tried to write fiction until a few years ago. As for how old I was when this happened, let's just say that I was starting to have hot flashes, and not just from writing sexy scenes!

For those who are unfamiliar with your novel, Legacy of the Highlands, how would you introduce it?
The novel combines love, sex, murder, intrigue, friendship, and the twists and turns of a mystery into a contemporary romantic suspense tale that readers – I’m happy to say—often describe as a page turner that they can’t put down. It’s a great beach read.

Do you have plans for a new book? Is this book part of a series?
I originally thought that Legacy would be a stand alone book, but readers and reviewers have told me they want more of these characters. Since I'm in love with my male hero, Diego Navarro, I'm very happy to spend more time with him! So this will be a two-book series. A lot of the next story will take place in Buenos Aires, Argentina, so I hope readers will be willing to visit another country.

Do you have a favorite quote that you keep visible in your work environment to help inspire you?
Yes. I actually have two. One is by E.L. Doctorow; the other, John Steinbeck.

“Writing a novel is like driving a car at night. You can see only as far as your headlights, but you can make the whole trip that way.” Doctorow

“When I face the desolate impossibility of writing 500 pages, a sick sense of failure falls on me and I know I can never do it. This happens every time. Then gradually I write one page and then another. One day’s work is all I can permit myself to contemplate and I eliminate the possibility of ever finishing.” Steinbeck.

Did you learn anything from writing Alexandra and what was it?
She exemplifies the ability of humans to be adaptable and to find joy again after tragedy. She doesn't exemplify the traditional romance novel notion that we have one great love. This woman bravely opens her heart a second time with amazing results.

If you could introduce one of your characters to any character from another book, who would it be and why?
Hmmm. Interesting question. Maybe I’d introduce Diego to Roarke from the “In Death” series by J.D. Robb (Nora Roberts). I think Diego needs a new best friend and he and Roarke share a lot of traits. They’re both strong, confident, handsome men who are passionately in love with their women.

What is the single worst distraction that kept you from writing this book?
The Internet!

Beyond your own work (of course), what is your all-time favorite book and why? And what is your favorite book outside of your genre?
My favorite, and one I re-read from time to time, is definitely “Outlander” by Diana Gabaldon. I’m not referring to the entire Outlander series; just the first book. This book inspired my interest in Scottish history and ultimately led to the strong desire to write a book that had a connection to Scotland. I love the way she portrayed her hero, including the words she put into his mouth. Most readers fall in love with Jamie Fraser and I’m definitely among them. I’m flattered when people tell me they feel the same about my book’s hero, the yummy Diego Navarro.

I still love reading Ian Fleming’s James Bond books. Spies are very sexy. Speaking of sex, Pierce Brosnan is my favorite James Bond.

When asked, what’s the one question you always answer with a lie?
I'm honest about my age, but do not ask any woman how much she weights!

Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?
Most often I write in the morning…after coffee, and occasionally at night, after 10pm. I write on my aging MacBook in my home office. I need silence, privacy and no interruptions so the door is closed and I don’t answer the phone.

If you could be any mythology creature, what would you be?
Athena from Homer’s Odyssey.

What’s the worst job you’ve had?
Telemarketing at a call center for various products advertised on radio and television. One of them was a “male enhancement” supplement and it seemed like callers were really looking for phone sex! I didn’t last long there!

What is your favorite Holiday and why?
I love Halloween for the fantasy element. You can be whoever you want to be and no one bats an eye.

This contemporary romantic suspense novel connects a murder in present-day Boston to a vow made by the victim's Scottish ancestor in 1320.

When Will Cameron's body is discovered in a Boston alley, the only clue to the thirty-four-year-old's murder is a pristine Scottish sgian dubh dagger left beside it. His devastated widow, Alexandra, flees Boston to find refuge in the Miami villa of Will's best friend, Diego Navarro, who has the means, power and temperament to solve the puzzle and to avenge the senseless killing.

Diego, a handsome and wealthy Argentine, is equally determined to win the grieving widow's heart. They find it increasingly difficult to resist a growing attraction to each other as they follow leads that take them from Miami to Buenos Aires and Scotland unraveling the Cameron family's secrets and the Legacy of the Highlands. 

You can purchase Legacy of the Highlands at the following Retailers:

    

And now, The Giveaways.

Thank you HARRIET SCHULTZ for making this giveaway possible.

3 Winners will receive one e-copy of Legacy of the Highlands by Harriet Schultz.

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Tim Shoemaker Author Interview

Photo Content from Tim Shoemaker

THE QUICK BIO

Happily married for more than thirty years to Cheryl, the love of my life.

Dad to three grown sons and two daughter-in-laws

Elder Chairman in my church and high school small group leader

Full time speaker and author since 2004

Living in the greater Chicago area

Grateful for God’s incredible grace and mercy to me in countless ways

MY PASSIONS

To be a man of integrity, who loves God and others with all my heart.

To be an extraordinary husband to Cheryl, the wife of my youth.

To love my sons, daughters-in-law, grandkids and extended family with everything in me.

To impact kids and youth in ways that cause them to become true men and women of God.

To help parents teach their kids about God and the principles He’s given us to live by.

To help couples experience the richness that comes from a marriage guided by God.

To help men see what a Christian man should be in all the various facets of life.

      

Was there a defining moment during your youth when you realized you wanted to be a writer?
No, the realization came after I had kids of my own. I enjoyed reading to them—and telling stories. I loved how they responded to them. How totally wrapped up and absorbed in the stories they got. After hearing “you should write these stories down” enough times, I finally listened. I had no idea what I was really getting into, but a love for writing grew to the point where I knew that I could never stop.

Why is storytelling so important for all of us?
Stories are powerful. They can teach, encourage, convey truth, and move readers or listeners in ways that few other things can. Stories are effective. They can warn of danger or inspire someone to take the “high road”. They can make people think about things in ways they never did before. Stories can help people be brave or conquer fear. If you have something important you need to convey to others—and you really want them to get it, put it in the form of a story!

What is the best piece of advice you ever received from another author?
Persevere. A lot of great writers will never be published because they give up too easy. The writers who get published are generally the ones who don’t quit.

In your new book, Code of Silence can you tell my Book Nerd community a little about it and why they should read your novel?

In Code of Silence, Cooper, Hiro, and Gordy witness a robbery that leaves a man in a coma. After being seen by the criminals—who may be cops—Cooper makes every promise not to tell anyone what they’ve seen. Telling the truth could get them killed—but remaining quiet comes with a high price tag—one Cooper can’t live with. Is there ever a time to lie? What happens when telling the truth is dangerous? The three friends, trapped in a code of silence, must face the consequences of choosing right or wrong when both options have their price.

Code of Silence is a contemporary suspense. No fantasy or sci-fi here, just three ordinary friends who get in way over their heads. This makes a great read—or a great read aloud to kids!

What part of Cooper did you enjoy writing the most?
I enjoy writing the parts where he is having conflict with Hiro. She drives him nuts at times, and at one point their relationship gets distanced, but she is never far from his mind. And I like writing the parts where he is seeing himself as he really is. Where he realizes the mistakes he’s been making—the high price of his dishonesty—and the risks he needs to make things right.

For those who are unfamiliar with Gordy, how would you introduce him?
Gordy is Cooper’s cousin and loyal best friend. He wants everybody to get along, and works to be a peacemaker in the group. He has a high level of energy, and an appetite to match. He eats and snacks the way I wish I could.

What are some of your current and future projects that you can share with us?
I have contracts for three books in the next year, and a couple of ideas beyond that.

Back Before Dark is the second book in the Code of Silence series. I just sent the manuscript to the editor, and it is scheduled to release next spring. In Back Before Dark an innocent stop at the park is shattered when Gordy is abducted. Cooper, Hiro, and Lunk witness the whole thing but aren’t able to help Gordy in time. Despite the best of police efforts, the hours tick by without a clue or a ransom call, leaving everyone to fear the worst. Gordy is gone… as if swallowed by the darkness itself. Cooper, Hiro, and Lunk are totally out of the official police investigation loop, but they find their own ways to search for Gordy. Sometimes rescuing a friend from darkness means going in after them.

Next, I’m starting Below the Surface, the third book in the series. Cooper, Hiro, Gordy, and Lunk will face another adventure—this one during summer break. I’m enjoying doing the research on that now. Both Back Before Dark and Below the Surface are going to be really exciting additions to the Code of Silence series.

I’m also contracted with Harvest House to write a book for men—so it will be a busy year.

When asked, what’s the one question you always answer with a lie?
This is an interesting question. And the honest answer is—I’ve made a personal commitment to always tell the truth. Life is a lot easier that way. Now, when am I tempted to answer with a lie? That’s easy. When my wife asks, “Are you raiding the refrigerator again?”

What’s the best advice you can give writers to help them develop their own unique voice and style?
Write from your heart. When you write from your heart, you’re digging deep. You’re being honest. You’re expressing you. Your fears. Your joys. Your failures. Your passions. The hidden things. Of course, you’re imbedding these elements of you into your characters. And when you do, your characters will ring true. And your story will touch your readers in the deepest part of their heart as well.

Write what you love to write. When you’re writing the type of fiction that you really, really like, I believe your writing will have a passion to it that it may not have if you were writing on assignment.

Write for the audience you love. I picture the people I want to read my book—while I’m writing it. People I know and love. People I want to move in some way.

I believe when you write from your heart about the things you love to write about, and you write just as if you were writing to people you love, you are truly being you. And when you do that, your style and voice can’t help but come to the surface.

Who is the first person you call when you have a bad day?
My wife. She’s a great listener, and my best friend. And she’s the first person I want to tell about my good days, too!

What's the worst summer job you've ever had?
I never had a bad summer job. I worked for my Dad while I was growing up—and I had it good. The worst summer at work was the year I totaled my car. I was seventeen—and wasn’t wearing a seatbelt. I did a face plant into the windshield, so there were a number of nasty lacerations—and lots of stitches. One scar on my forehead had a Frankenstein quality to it. Anyway, my job was working with customers in a retail setting. Most people acted like they didn’t notice the scars, but their eyes told a different story. And sometimes little kids were terrified. After the accident, I wanted to hide in the stockroom.

When was the last time you cried?
While working on Back Before Dark. I get so wrapped up in the characters that I’m feeling what they’re feeling. Is that pitiful, or what? I get choked up reading my own work. I was sitting outside at a fast food place recently, typing on the laptop, sipping on sweet tea, and tears were rolling down my cheeks. Later I noticed my table was right by the drive-thru line—with people just watching me while they were waiting for their order. They must have thought I was writing my obituary.

What is the one, single food that you would never give up?
Spaghetti. Piled high with lots of sauce.

Telling the Truth Could Get Them Killed. Remaining Silent Could Be Worse.When Cooper, Hiro, and Gordy witness a robbery that leaves a man in a coma, they find themselves tangled in a web of mystery and deceit that threatens their lives. After being seen by the criminals---who may also be cops---Cooper makes everyone promise never to reveal what they have seen. Telling the truth could kill them. But remaining silent means an innocent man takes the fall and a friend never receives justice. Is there ever a time to lie? And what happens when the truth is dangerous? The three friends, trapped in a code of silence, must face the consequences of choosing right or wrong when both options have their price. 

Tim Shoemaker’s Code of Silence is a mystery thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seat. The book follows childhood friends Hiro, Gordy, and Cooper who witness a robbery at their favorite local spot that left the owner in a coma. The robbers were in police uniforms and fearing that their lives may be in danger, the three form a pact to keep the ordeal a secret. But they never knew how much of an impact living a lie would bring.

How will the three friends ever tell the truth without getting themselves in trouble? Tim delivers a brilliant story that is full of suspense and action. Just when it seems that the kids’ predicament couldn’t get anymore complicated, a fourth person is added to the equation and opens a completely new twist in the plot. However, even with all of these storms coming into one place, Tim’s writing skills unfolds a very unique story that is unlike anything ever encountered in a book.

Code of Silence will grab readers from the very beginning with a strong and bold grip. It is full of conflict and suspense with a powerful theme in friendship and loyalty. Teens and adults will enjoy the unpredictable yet exciting plot and parents will appreciate its important message of sincerity. One of my best reads of 2012.

You can purchase Code of Silence at the following Retailers:

    

And now, The Giveaways.

Thank you TIM SHOEMAKER for making this giveaway possible.

3 Winners will receive a Signed Copy of Code of Silence by Tim Shoemaker.

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Charlotte Bennardo & Natalie Zaman Author Interview

Photo Content from Charlotte Bennardo and Natalie Zaman

CHARLOTTE BENNARDO 
Lover of sparkly things, Char doesn't have as many shoes as she'd like, but wouldn't have time to wear them anyway with her three boys, husband, cat with issues, demented squirrels and insistent characters all demanding her time. She is represented by Natalie Lakosil of the Bradford Literary Agency and is hoping to get all her characters into print just so they'll be quiet. 

TWITTER | FACEBOOK | GOODREADS | WEBSITE |

When not playing with pointed objects, NATALIE ZAMAN is usually writing. She lives in central New Jersey with her family and several fine looking chickens. 

TWITTER | FACEBOOK | GOODREADS | WEBSITE |

Was there a defining moment during your youth when you realized you wanted to be a writer?
Char: My parents had taken us to a drive-in theater (way back when…). My father said, “Close the [car] door, someone will take it off.” I asked him why would someone take it off? He explained that someone pulling into the next spot would take it off. So I asked him again why they would take our door off? “Because they’ll hit it,” he replied. He meant that the door would be in the way of someone pulling into the spot and would get pulled off by the other car. At that moment, I realized how he knew what he meant, but I didn’t because of how he worded the question. After that, I became fascinated with words and reading and writing. I became an avid reader.

Why is storytelling so important for all of us?
Nat: Life is all about the story. Telling stories keep the memories of people you love alive, even long after they’re gone. Thanks to story, my children have “gotten to know” the aunts and uncles who were so much a part of my childhood and meant so much to me. Words breathe life into the past and make it real.

Who hasn’t had an event—big, small, significant or sad, and/or dramatic and funny—that gets spun into a tale to be told later? Or over and over again where it’s turned into a kind of family legend? There are stories that only “some people” can tell properly-- not just because they were a witness, but because of a certain flair and choice of words, and of course, a deadly punch line. Sometimes the person who tells a story best is the one who observes from the sidelines. They might not have *all* the facts, but their perspective makes up for it!

What is the best piece of advice you ever received from another author?
Nat: I was fortunate enough to land Gail Carson Levine as a mentor at the Rutgers University Council On Children’s Literature (this is a conference that pairs writers aspiring to be published with editors, agents or established writers as mentors). Her advice to me was “just say it.” There are some stories where the writer draws out details that lead the reader to a surprise or a turning point. Done properly, the reader is swept away and taken aback, and is like, OMG, I didn’t see THAT coming! Not done properly, it can be annoying—which is what I was doing. I’ve worked hard to hone this skill—and am still working on it (we employed a surprise element in Sirenz Back In Fashion)! It’s not always easy to find *just the right words* but when you do, it’s magic!

In your newest book; Sirenz Back in Fashion, can you tell my Book Nerd community a little about it and why they should read your novel?
Char: There are a lot of dark, dystopian, end-of-world, tragic books out lately. Sirenz goes in the opposite direction; it’s light and funny, with things that shouldn’t go together. I mean, fashion designing spiders? Exercised obsessed Greek gods? Pink bikinis and red high heels? Fish scale dresses? Everyone needs a break from angst and tears and despair. Come on over to the funny side.

Can you tell us when you started Sirenz Back in Fashion, how that came about?
Nat: Char and I were in a critique group together. When Twilight came out, and we read it, we were like, we can do this, and started batting around ideas. One thing we were certain of was that we wanted there to be two characters and that the chapters would go back and forth from each one’s point of view to tell the story. I don’t know why—laziness (It is only half the work—this, BTW, is misleading because of the endless revisions that followed). Then we needed a platform. We started with vampires, but there were LOADS of vampire stories out there. Somehow Xena Warrior Princess entered the conversation. We both loved the way the gods were portrayed in that show—and we started asking questions. What if the gods were *really* good looking and sort of campy, but they lived and functioned in modern day New York City? We liked that. What gods and mythological creatures could we use? Hades seemed so misunderstood. We could make him bad, but in a delicious kind of way. All he needed were minions to take advantage of… Sirens(z)!

What part of Shar did you enjoy writing the most?
Char: The scene where she’s trying to get over the River Styx. It had me giggling. I wish I was that comical in real life, I’d be really popular.

If you could introduce Meg to any character from another book, who would it be and why?
Nat: Any book, any character, eh? I’d totally intro Meg to Pippin Took. I think they’d make a cute couple. They share a sense of adventure, and then there’s the whole height thing (they’re both kinda short). He could lure her into wearing some color with a second breakfast...

What are some of your current and future projects that you can share with us?
Char: We have Sirenz Myth Appropriated outlined and ¼ done. Since Flux won’t be publishing it, we’ll go right to ebook. We’ve just made a deal with editor Peter Joseph and assistant editor Kat Brzozowski of Thomas Dunne books to do a comedic novel, Blond Ops, which is ‘Devil Wears Prada’ mashed with ‘James Bond.’ It will debut 2014. For me personally, I have a MG that just died in submission hell, but my agent has a paranormal ghost story she’s reviewing, and I’m working on a medical paranormal.

Nat: For tandem projects, what Char said! For me, I have a Victorian Fantasy out on sub for which I’m plotting another round of revisions, and a Reaper tale that I’m waiting to hear back on from super-agent Natalie Lakosil and my trusty betas ♥

When asked, what’s the one question you always answer with a lie?
Char: How much I eat. I lie mostly to myself: “You haven’t eaten that much today. You can have those cookies. That ice cream. Those chips and guacamole.”

Nat: What, this old thing (after a new purchase—usually shoes or a bag). Hopefully my husband won’t be reading this…

What’s the best advice you can give writers to help them develop their own unique voice and style?
Char: Read so many authors that you see what style you like; I’ve learned humor from Mary Janice Davidson’s “Undead” series, dialogue from Julie Garwood, depth from JRR Tolkien, and horror from Edgar Allen Poe. Then read more so that you get confused on who did a specific style so you can’t copy them. Then write, write, write, and then edit, edit, edit. You will develop your own style through sheer determination.

Nat: Write. Read. Revise. Repeat—until that point that when you’re reading, you get lost, and you feel like you’re eavesdropping on a real being. Now, here’s the painful part. Hand your work over to someone who you respect and would like the kind of thing you’re writing, and see if they believe it. Repeat as necessary.

Who is the first person you call when you have a bad day?
Char: My mom or my sister. I’m close with them and it seems when I need comfort, they do too, so we share miseries and laughs.

Nat: I’m really lucky that my mom lives with me. We’ve always had extended family in the house—and it’s wonderful to have that kind of support.

Who was your first boyfriend?
Char: The first one I actually dated- not like the ‘going out’ in 6th grade where all you did was pass notes and tell everyone you were going out but never went anywhere together? I’d have to say it was Jimmy B. Went to his house and had dinner with his parents, hung out at the park. Got my first ‘real’ kiss. Ah, memories. He was totally sweet, but it only lasted two weeks because I had to go home (was staying at my cousin’s house in the summer).

Nat: I was in 8th Grade when I met Rob F. He didn’t live in the same town as me, so it was far enough away to make things *just* challenging enough to be fun. He was my first real kiss--I was smitten.

What are you most passionate about today?
Char: I’m kind of split- my writing and getting my kids to be independent and on a good path for adult success (SAT prep classes, fencing lessons, community service, etc.) I grab whatever time I can for my writing, working it around the kids’ schedule.

Nat: My family and close friends. At the end of the day, it’s all about connecting with people.♥

What is the one, single food that you would never give up?
Char: Chai tea lattes. No chai, kill me now.

Nat: Nutella. It’s the perfect food ♥

In Sirenz, boarding school roomies Meg and Shar learned the hazards of making a deal with Hades, Lord of the Underworld. The wearing of a Tiffany's diamond ring in Sirenz Back In Fashion reactivates their contract, they find themselves back in his employ as sirens. And things are a little different this time; Shar is whisked off to the Underworld to play hostess as the dark god attempts to win her affections, while Meg is stuck topside, obligated to send spoiled rich girl Paulina Swanson to the Underworld. Hot gods, mere mortals and the Underworld have their secrets. Will Meg and Shar ever ditch Hades, and keep their wardrobes and souls intact? 

Charlotte Bennardo and Natalie Zaman’s Sirenz is an adventurous tale of two girls, Meg and Shar--roommates but not friends, that are confronted by Hades, ruler of the underworld, who offers them a way out of their troubles in exchange to do his bidding. Even though the girls are not friends, they share a room and put up with each other. They have the type of relationship where they cannot stand each other, but under all of that annoyance, they genuinely like each other. When a horrible ordeal occurs due to them fighting over a pair of shoes, Hades places his offer on the table. If they fail, Hades will turn them into sirens. The two girls agree and now must learn to respect and appreciate each other, if they want to avoid becoming sirens.

The Hades aspect of this book is truly unique and sets it apart from most paranormal stories. Although there is a love interest, it is more centered in the theme of girl power and putting differences aside to achieve one common goal. The book is extremely funny and cute. The interaction between the two girls is loaded with sarcasm as they go through crazy adventures avoiding becoming sirens. Other gods appear in the story like Demeter, mother-in-law of Hades, and Hade’s wife Persephone. Even with these gods present in the book, readers will find it a delight of their modernized appeal.

Charlotte and Natalie have made a fun and adorable book. This is a great escape and relief from the heavy books. It is filled with light comedy with adventure and friendship. Sirenz and its mythological chick twist will satisfy readers’ hunger for something fun, fast-paced, and comedic. I certainly hope this is the beginning of a series as I can imagine Meg and Shar sharing more adventures together.

You can purchase Sirenz at the following Retailers:

    

And now, The Giveaways.

Thank you CHARLOTTE BENNARDO AND NATALIE ZAMAN for making this giveaway possible.

1 Winner will receive diamond ring bookmark/paperweight 

along with a bookmark pin & Choco Coins.

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Brian James Author Guest Post

Book Nerd Interview

I grew up outside of Philadelphia, a town I portrayed all my thoughts and feelings about in Pure Sunshine and the short story Filthadelphia. When I was eighteen, I moved to New York City where I stayed for ten years. You can read about my impressions of that city in both Tomorrow, Maybe and Thief. For the suburban experiences of my life, check out Perfect World and Dirty Liar.

Needless to say, ten years in Manhattan is more than enough. It was time to pack up and head for the peace and quiet of the middle of nowhere. Alas, I ended up in the Woodstock area of upstate New York. An area aptly portrayed in my book Zombie Blondes.

My fascination with writing started in childhood with the notion of making up stories. I loved action figures as a kid. Actually, I still do and still collect them. But as a child, I would set up my entire bedroom like the stage for one epic story that I would play out for days. I didn't know it at the time, but it was the basis for what I do now. I was also a stuffed animal kid. I had dozens and they all had names and they all personalities. Basically, they were characters. Writing isn't very different than playing. It's just a grown up way of doing it.

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What part of Sabrina did you enjoy writing the most?

Without a doubt, writing the imaginary dreamlike visions of how Sabrina sees the world were the most enjoyable scenes for me to work on in Life is But a Dream. I've used extensive imagery in previous books, but with this character it was more than metaphorical. I was able to create a world which was real to her. I've always been the kind of person who wished the world were more animated and through Sabrina's eyes, I was able to create the kind of magical place that I always envisioned within my own mind. In that way, her and I are a lot of like...I simply have the benefit of knowing it to be illusion.

Do you have a favorite quote that you keep visible in your work environment to help inspire you?

There is one quote that always comes back to me, perhaps because I'd always held the same belief even before I encountered it. To see it echoed back to me by one of the most influential writers in my career made me feel as though I was on the right track and needed to stay the course.

“The true writer has nothing to say. What counts is the way he says it.” ― Alain Robbe-Grillet

I've always been a writer that holds language and literary style above plot or message because I feel books are more than a good story or lesson learned. There is a lyricism involved that has the potential to lend a transportive quality to the words. There is a rhythm and pace to which a story must unfold. Storytelling is an art form meant to be more than an abundant spilling of happenings.

Did you learn anything from writing Alec and what was it?

Alec is actually a character molded extensively after myself at that age. I once shared many of his views on the world and mental health treatments, as did a lot of people I knew. And though I still believe a lot of what his character says in the book has merit, there comes a point in life when one must realize that things are not as absolute as you often think they are as a teenager...or at least as absolute as I did as teenager.

There's this sense about Alec in the book that he has 'figured everything out' but the truth is much more complex. I think Alec is an example of the danger that comes with applying one set of understandings to an entire problem. While there does exist corruption and misuse of the mental health system such as he sees it, be it the over prescription of anti-depressants or using an 'illness' to deny responsibility for one's actions, there are also people who truly benefit from the care they receive.

Alec is not a bad person. He truly means well for those he cares about. But sometimes our confidence in our own beliefs can be harmful. This is the lesson he is forced to face within the book.

Why do you feel you had to tell this story?

Most of my books center on characters who exist on the fringes of our society, be them drug users, runaways, or just plain outcasts. They always say to write about what you know, and I guess I've always felt like an outsider looking in. But outsiders are observers and we often see the world in ways others never consider. When I started writing, I wanted to capture the sad, yet sometimes beautiful existence that comes with being on the other side of the mirror.

I didn't set out to write a book about schizophrenia when I conceived of Life is But a Dream. In my mind, Sabrina started out as simple dreamer, a girl not really wanting to live in the world. I wanted to create a character who saw the world the way she wanted to see it, rather than the way it was. As I started making notes about her character, I used those as 'symptoms' and reversed diagnosed her. Without any foreknowledge or intent, I discovered the character I'd created was a near text book case of someone suffering acute schizophrenia. From there, the story began to shape.

Having encountered mental illness many times in my life, I felt the need to express not only the danger, but also the attraction one feels to the very thing that others are trying to cure them of. I think too often people try to help others without taking the time to truly understand them. There is a comfort that comes with isolation and I was just trying to give a voice to those who may not have one in our society.

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Sabrina, an artist, is diagnosed with schizophrenia, and her parents check her into the Wellness Center. There she meets Alec, who is convinced it's the world that's crazy, not the two of them. They are meant to be together; they are special. But when Alec starts to convince Sabrina that her treatment will wipe out everything that makes her creative, she worries that she'll lose hold of her dreams and herself. Should she listen to her doctor? her decision may have fatal consequences.

Brian James calls Life is But a Dream "the most intense book I've written. Bringing this unique character to life and seeing the world through her eyes, with all its beauty and confusion, was an immense challenge that I hope is just as rewarding to read as it was to write." Intense--yes. Unforgettable--definitely.

Life is but a Dream by Brian James is a beautiful story about a schizophrenic teenage girl, Sabrina, who is the middle of getting it treated. She believes that she has a special way of seeing the world but her parents disagree. When she meets Alec at the Wellness Center, they form an immediate bond and he believes all the things that Sabrina sees. But the more she spends time with Alec, things get complicated as she stops taking her medicine and decides to take control.

Sabrina is a very interesting character. The fact that she has schizophrenia, she has a different and unique view of life. This uniqueness makes her truly captivating. Although her life is complicated, author Brian provides his readers with so much detail that it helps in understanding her character. She is so likable that readers will root for her to get better. As for Alec, he displayed a series of different emotions and truly made complicated decisions.

The writing in this book is perfect. The main character suffers from schizophrenia that not a lot of people know about. However, Brian does a wonderful job of incorporating it in a book and provides a better understanding. He gives us plenty of twists and turns to keep the story unpredictable. Even with all the information at hand, as readers close in on the ending, there is still a sense of mystery of how it will end. Life is but a Dream is simply beautiful and will appeal to anyone who loves a great story with a wonderful theme. 

You can purchase Life is But a Dream at the following Retailers:

    

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And now, The Giveaways.

Thank you Brian for making this giveaway possible.

1 Winner will receive a Signed Copy of Life is But a Dream by Brian James.

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M.P. Kozlowsky Author Interview

Book Nerd Interview

M.P. Kozlowsky was an English teacher before becoming a writer. Juniper Berry is his first book. He lives in New York with his wife and daughter.

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Why is storytelling so important for all of us?

Our history, both personal and global, has been recorded in stories for as long as we have existed. Whether fiction or nonfiction, fantasy or children’s literature, all storytelling reveals something about the author, about the reader, about the times we live in. In short, storytelling tells us who we are, and there is nothing more important than that.

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

People are usually taken aback when they learn of my childhood and youth, the difficulties I endured throughout them. It is a troubling story and one I plan on telling in detail sometime in the future.

Was there a defining moment during your youth when you realized you wanted to be a writer?

No. I never took writing as a career seriously. I always thought it was out of my grasp, a dream, something along the lines of being a professional baseball player or rock star. It wasn’t until much later that I decided to take a chance.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received from another author?

I don’t converse with many authors, so the best advice I receive is through their writing. Even if it’s fiction, whenever I read a great author, I feel I am being advised on how to become a better writer; it is there in each line, in every bit of dialogue and narration.

What are some of the common challenges that new and experienced authors face and what advice do you have for over-coming them?

Many inexperienced authors have to scratch their way into the publishing world and their fingers may get bloody, their nails broken. Without a “name”, selling a book can be quite difficult, particularly if you have a singular vision that does not fit into a certain box and challenges the reader in ways they are not used to. We are in a world of marketing and mass consumption and groupthink – sometimes even the best stories don’t sell. But don’t ever sacrifice vision.

In your new book; Juniper Berry, can you tell my Book Nerd Kids Community a little about it and why they should read your novel?

Juniper Berry, a modern fairy tale of sorts, speaks to the classic belief that greatness can come through something other than hard work and discipline. Juniper finds out, in a truly horrible way, that even those closest to her can succumb to such temptations – no one is immune to it. Because of this discovery, she is thrust into a nightmarish underworld, ruled by the most wicked of creatures, to save her illustrious family and her new best friend. The story can be quite frightful, especially once the reader realizes that such Mephistophelean bargains are being made every day.

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

Juniper was written as a character for young girls to look up to and admire, a girl that young boys would consider themselves lucky to be around. She is a role model, a girl who takes pleasure in the intricacies of life, the beauty of nature and science and literature. She is a girl who questions all and sees the world few others do. If more girls grow up to be like her, the world will become a much better place.

If you could introduce one of your characters to any character from another book, who would it be and why?

A great question with so very many possibilities. I would be curious to see how Skeksyl would get along with Milton’s Satan, or Juniper with Huck Finn or it might be a great arc to see Giles get his heart broken, like Pip did, by Estella and to use such an experience to explore his world in greater depth, although it probably would come out like something very close to Great Expectations. So many options. But maybe best of all would be for Juniper to join Christopher Robin in those very special woods where there roams a Pooh bear and an Eeyore and a Tigger.

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

I would ask them to take a page out of Juniper’s book – not literally – and look at the world in as many different ways as possible, with as many different lenses, while asking questions about it all, never to be satisfied until you explore it from every possible angle. And then question it some more.

What book are you reading now?

I just finished reading Masters of Atlantis by Charles Portis and plan on starting Mason & Dixon by Thomas Pynchon very soon.

Where is the best place in the world you’ve been?

I had a magical time in Prague, including a moment, in thinking back to your previous question, when I knew I had to write; there was no longer any choice. It came as I was crossing the magnificent Charles Bridge.

What is your favorite room in your home and outside environment?

I don’t have a library in my home yet, but when I do that will undoubtedly be my favorite room. Outside my home, a walk through Central Park can be downright transformative.

What's the worst summer job you've ever had?

I always tried to pick jobs that I wouldn’t absolutely despise.

When was the last time you cried?

As my wife has pointed out, it’s been some time. I tend to internalize everything, perhaps releasing it only on paper, as a writer should.

What is your favorite food?

“Favorite” is a tough word. I’ve always given people a hard time about it. I cannot pick a favorite anything; not a favorite movie, favorite song, favorite book, and, in this case, a favorite food. I am so very sorry. This idiosyncrasy, which borders on affliction for me, has plagued me far too long now.

Where can readers stalk you?

As much as I love my audience, I believe there should be a separation. There should be some mystery and contradictions and slight reveals every few years only. There are few pictures of me out there, I don’t have a facebook page or twitter account. Feel free to stalk – in a sane way – and if you track me down, I’d love nothing more than to sit somewhere quiet, away from social media and TVs and handheld devices, and talk.

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Be careful what you wish for.

Young Juniper Berry knows her mother and father aren't the same people they used to be. Of course, they're no longer struggling actors—they're now the most famous movie stars in the world. But it's more than that. She can't shake the feeling that something isn't quite right with them. And one rainy night, in the shadowy and sinister woods behind their mansion, she discovers she's right.

Now, it's up to Juniper to overcome her own demons in order to save the ones who couldn't.

One of the most important elements in a middle grade book is its characters. M.P. Kozlowsky’s debut book, Juniper Berry, certainly have unforgettable characters that are tied within a world of fantasy and mystery. It encompasses an influential message about the importance of being careful of one’s desires and what is wished upon.

M.P.’s character development is simply wonderful. He manages to display the Juniper’s innocence and provides readers a detailed glimpse of her unique view of the world. Readers will feel an immediate attachment with the protagonist. Secondary characters are uniformly elaborated that gives them importance in the story. Even the villain is perfect in such a way that he defines the word evil. M.P. has a natural talent of giving his characters so much personality.

The story setup is bold and strong. It carries powerful themes of addiction to power, enticement, and salvation. The mystery that clouds over the story is unlike anything ever written before. Even with its dark scenes, they were effortless to envision. The rich descriptions of the world, scene, and characters are like a work of art that naturally appears inside the head of readers. Juniper Berry is a powerful story that will challenge young readers’ minds.

You can purchase Juniper Berry at the following Retailers:

    

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And now, The Giveaways.

Thank you M.P. & Walden Pond Press for making this giveaway possible.

1 Winner will receive one copy of Juniper Berry by M.P. Kozlowsky.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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