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Interview with Prabha Karan, Author of The YOU in Me, Forever...

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The YOU in Me, Forever...?

Most humans often explore questions that challenge human understanding. Their commitment to uncovering the universe's and life's mysteries has led to significant achievements, such as medical breakthroughs and technological innovations. Yet, even as they delve into advanced subjects, they often ponder even bigger questions: When did the universe begin? How did it start? Why does the universe exist? Can subatomic particles be divided further? What is the purpose of human existence? What are the Non-Anatomical Composition of Human Beings? What happens after death? What role does Consciousness play etc. Prabha, the author wanted to address the above intellectual queries both on a macrocosmic scale, and microcosmic scale through the book, "The YOU in Me, Forever...". He methodically explains the unknown mysteries preceding the Big Bang & exploring finer aspects of human personality, and Consciousness.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Non-Fiction, Astronomy, Cosmology, Body-Mind-Soul, Mindfulness, Meditation, Yoga, Self Management.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Who Banged the Big Bang!

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The chapter of "YOGA & MEDICATION"

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

You have an INTELLECT, and by refusing to use the INTELLECT to think - you reduce yourself to the level of a MICROBE!

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

"The INTELLECT is a powerful mechanism within your personality, that manifest in the form of a single precise thought. By using the Intellect you think, reason, compare, posit, infer, judge, and make decisions logically"

Prabha Karan is the author of the new book The YOU in Me, Forever...

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Interview with TC Marti, Author of Cursed Mage (Catenarian Chronicles Book 1)

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Cursed Mage (Caternian Chronicles Book 1)?

Several stories, really. I’d always wanted to create a work with a deep, hidden family legacy. Having read works like Spirit Legacy by E.E. Holmes and Secret Legacy by Carissa Andrews, both were major influences in terms of tropes. With an interest in incorporating elemental magic, something that had been an interest of mine since I first watched Avatar: The Last Airbender, it completed a work that I would describe as familiar, but with a cross-over of so many concepts. Those, plus nonfiction titles like Murray N. Rothbard’s Anatomy of the State and Smedley D. Butler’s War is a Racket, just to throw a couple out there, really helped to shape Cursed Mage.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Cursed Mage (Caternian Chronicles Book 1), what would they be?

This is a great question! For Kaija, the theme song would definitely be "Ghost Love Score" by Nightwish.

As for Marko, I’d roll with "Dead to the World", also by Nightwish.

Then, there’s Lilja, whose song, also sticking with the Nightwish theme, would be "Bless the Child".

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

My favorite genre to read is a tie between paranormal/urban fantasy and dystopian fiction. Cursed Mage carries that paranormal/urban fantasy concept, but the darkness surrounding it also hints at dystopian elements. I would say yes, my favorite genre, or genres, to read are definitely my favorite ones to write.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Oh, more than I can count! Right now, I’m going back and re-reading many books that I’ve read in the past. I’m finishing up the Gateway Trilogy by E.E. Holmes for the fourth time, then moving on to re-reading Kate L. Mary’s dystopian trilogy, Beyond, and Tracy Lawson’s Resistance Series. I also have works like Six Days of the Condor on the list, along with some select nonfiction like End the Fed and Liberty Defined by Ron Paul.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The climax scene of Act II always makes me laugh. It’s Kaija’s first major test against these ruthless Mage Master assassins deemed the Huotaja. To pull off a daring rescue, Kaija had no choice but to invade enemy territory, but she’s still very, very raw in her own Mage ability. So, what does Kaija do? She reverts to using her wit and the street smarts she learned during her days growing up in the worst areas imaginable. Plus, some professional wrestling moves. The scene showed Kaija that, even against some of the most well-trained enemies, she could be a force when push came to shove.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I often write between 2,000 and 3,000 words every morning. During that time, I’m not one to drink coffee or tea, but pre-workout supplements. Many of my gym friends are rather shocked when I tell them I like to take a good two (sometimes three) hours to sip on a pre-workout while I’m writing, as opposed to just drinking it while on my way to, or arriving at the gym.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

One quote that I live by comes from Henry David Thoreau, who once said, “I was born not to be forced. I will breathe after my own fashion. Let us see who is the strongest.”

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

While I’ll always hope that readers feel that they’ve read a great, entertaining book, remembering the themes would be even more rewarding. Themes of embracing individual liberty and the natural right to self-ownership while critiquing statism run rampant in every book that I write. If I can plant such seeds into the minds of readers that entice them to explore the concepts further, I can smile at the end of the day.

TC Marti is the author of the new book Cursed Mage (Caternian Chronicles Book 1)

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Interview with Alexa Padgett, Author of Another Powerplay

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Another Powerplay?

I've been excited to write Lennon's story since this series kicked off! He's the heart of the team, always ready with sage advice for his friends as they find their happily-ever-afters. Lennon's my sensitive soul—a tough NHL defenseman with a heart of gold who isn't afraid to show his emotions. What’s not to adore? I'm a sucker for a good hockey romance, and don't even get me started on dogs. Life, though...Life isn't always fair, and I've experienced my share of losses to violence and disease, just like Lennon and Vivi. I wanted to tackle these themes head-on, crafting a story that lets readers connect deeply with the characters and feel every moment of their journey. But the path to real intimacy and connection isn’t a cakewalk. They require vulnerability and exposure, which can be terrifying yet exhilarating—like stepping onto the ice for the first time. I wanted to show just how vulnerable and exposed you have to make yourself to find that deep, lasting connection. It's a bit like taking that first step onto the ice—terrifying, exhilarating, and absolutely worth it.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Another Powerplay, what would they be?

Hmmm….I had to think about this question for a long time! "Skinny Love" by Bon Iver is my first choice because it captures the resilience and longing that define the pursuit of love, even in the face of adversity. The song's themes of fragile yet enduring connections resonate deeply, reflecting Lennon and Vivi's struggle to navigate the complexities of love and relationships.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I have a confession to make: mysteries and thrillers are my ultimate guilty pleasure. There's nothing quite like that heart-pounding rush of suspense that keeps you glued to the page. I'm absolutely addicted to crafting these twisty tales, weaving in surprises that'll have you gasping and second-guessing until the very end. The twist (every good tale must have one, right?) is I've also got a major soft spot for romance. I mean, who doesn't love a swoon-worthy happily-ever-after? There's pure magic in writing those moments when two characters finally get their HEA, leaving me (and hopefully you!) with that warm, fuzzy feeling inside. Sure, it might be fleeting, but oh boy, does it make all those nail-biting, edge-of-your-seat moments totally worth it. So, whether you're in for a wild thrill ride or a heartwarming love story, I've got you covered. Just please don't blame me if you end up staying up past your bedtime to finish "just one more chapter"! 😉

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I'm reading Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King with my critique group and The Creative Act by Rick Rubin. Romances I plan to read include Make it Sweet by Kristen Callihan, Totally Folked by Penny Reid, and the Forever Girl by Meghan Quinn.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The meet cute! I get all the warm fuzzy feels when I think about Vivi looking at Lennon that first time.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

As I settle into my office, my sweet pup is always by my side, warming up the space (and my heart!). After years of writing in bustling cafes and waiting rooms, I'm thrilled to have my own sanctuary. It's my first-ever office, and I'm absolutely smitten! The vibrant purple curtains aren't just a pretty touch—they spark joy and fuel my creativity. To keep my imagination humming, I switch between my desk and an old armchair, letting my mood guide the story. My secret to staying focused is short, intense writing sessions. I typically write for no more than three hours a day. This approach keeps my stories vibrant and my mind buzzing with fresh ideas.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

The mantra I try to live by (emphasis on try): If I can't say something kind, constructive, or informative, I zip it. Sounds simple, right? But…sometimes my filter slips, and out pops something I wish I could stuff back in my loose lips. But hey, we're all works in progress, right? The key is to keep trying, keep growing, and maybe think twice before hitting that 'send' button on that spicy text.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

That warm fuzzy feeling of feeling of contentment. I adore that feeling.

Alexa Padgett is the author of the new book Another Powerplay

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Interview with True North, Author of Anasazi Vision

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Anasazi Vision?

The story behind the story is quite amazing, and told in the epilogue of the book. In short, it’s a tale birthed from a vision quest that I did, and the remarkable experiences that followed. The first draft was written immediately following my vision quest, and was totally inspired. Eight years later, I visited an indigenous tribe, and an elder explained that this was not the first time we’d met—he’d been the one who’d come to me in the vision I received on my quest. He introduced himself as Oliver, the name he’d called himself in the vision, and he knew of the story I’d written. He explained that it was not time to publish it—not yet. More information was to be included, and it would be forthcoming. In December 2023, I knew I had all the material for the book, rewrote and published it. It contains a profound message.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Anasazi Vision, what would they be?

Actually, there’s a playlist in the back pages of the book. I listened to it on repeat during the months I wrote the book. If I were to choose three songs, though, they'd be: "Open Doors", "Mother", and "Chapter in the Forest" (all by Trevor Hall).

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Women’s Fiction, especially stories that inspire and blow my heart open. Yes.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Braiding Sweetgrass, We are Made Of Stars, Conversations With A Tree.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The scenes with Spirit Eyes.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I have a small altar, some crystals and a candle on my desk. My ritual is to light a candle before writing.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Say "yes," then lean in, and trust.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

One thing readers continue to share with me is that they’re reminded Earth is our first mother, and everything alive is imbued with life-force energy. Some have had a visceral experience of how important it is we care of our beautiful planet and each other. It’s a story for our times of chaos. Readers say they come away with a sense of hope. As a writer, that’s pretty darn fulfilling.

True North is the author of the new book Anasazi Vision

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Interview with David Robertson, Author of Swashbuckler and the Princess of Istanbul: Book One

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Swashbuckler and the Princess of Istanbul: Book One?

I started this project 20 years ago, but life and career got in the way. It started as something fun, just putting words on a page with no intention of publishing it; self-publishing didn't exist then either. Fast forward to now and I found self-publishing, picked up the (digital) parchments and completed it, using generative AI to produce the cover art myself. I really dig the DIY stuff and leaned on my experience as an engineer to do it well. But I'm still a noob to all of this.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Swashbuckler and the Princess of Istanbul: Book One, what would they be?

I have an original that has never been written down (audiobook time?); "He's a Pirate" - Klaus Badelt, and "Star Wars Sith Symphony"- Lucas King.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Sci-Fi is my favorite in print or on screen, but most of my writings are for historical fiction.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I'm going back through Louis L'Amour's Sackett series at present.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Fun and favorite can be applied to the creatures known as canavar, which is the Turkish word ( جاناوار) for "monster." Fun because this part of the story expands our ideas of wonder and adventure, and favorite because our heroes escape from serious unexpected danger. If you like being terrified and thrilled at the same time, go read the "Canavar" chapter.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I'm a music guy, so if I don't have a song in my head, it's difficult to write for long. Using music as a "soundtrack" for my writings improves my mood and the quality of the telling of the tale.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Rejoice always and pray without ceasing.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

Find your sense of adventure in print, on the big screen, or on your own in the outdoors.

David Robertson is the author of the new book Swashbuckler and the Princess of Istanbul: Book One

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Interview with M. Gregg Roe, Author of Farewell, My Lamia

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Farewell, My Lamia?

“A femme fatale seeks assistance from a hard-boiled private investigator, with the twist that she’s not human.” That concept is how my first stab at crime fiction began (pun intended). To prepare, I consumed a great deal of Raymond Chandler’s fiction, as well as some of his non-fiction. Next was researching the slang typical of hard-boiled crime fiction. After deciding that the femme fatale would be a lamia (aka “snake-woman”), I decided to base the setting solely on Greek mythology. And then I started writing, because I rarely plot out my stories in advance. Writing in the first person was something else new. That simplified some elements of the story-telling, and made it easier to convey the main character’s personality, including his self-deprecating sense of humor. I also enjoyed creating the eccentric characters that appear in various roles. My friends and the editor really liked what ultimately resulted, and I hope others will feel the same.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Farewell, My Lamia, what would they be?

I asked ChatGPT to recommend theme songs for three of the book’s characters.

For Lomarr, the hard-boiled protagonist, “In the Mood” by Glenn Miller.

For Shioné, the client, “Breathe Me” by Sia.

For Mogg, the muscle, “Iron Man” by Black Sabbath.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I primarily read science fiction, but I also read traditional fantasy, classic fiction, and some historical non-fiction. When it comes to writing, I have so far focused on fantasy, specifically sword & sorcery tales with a strong D&D flavor. I also include a lot of slice-of-life elements that I feel add realism.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

My TBR pile includes “Imagica” by Clive Barker, “Time Enough For Love” by Robert Heinlein, and several of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld novels.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scene to write was the one in which we meet Mogg, a cyclops who works as a bar bouncer.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I tend to write early in the morning, a time when my two young cats generally leave me alone. I almost always listen to music while writing, usually heavy metal but sometimes classical. I have a bad habit of writing until back pain forces me to stop.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

I take a Zen attitude towards life, learning from all I experience, whether positive or negative.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

It is my fond hope that readers will connect with the main character, because I would really like to turn this into a series.

M. Gregg Roe is the author of the new book Farewell, My Lamia

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Interview with Lisa M. James, Author of The Fifth Kingdom

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Fifth Kingdom?

Growing up with a passion for fairy tales, I always envisioned a romance between a young knight and a sorceress princess. As a reader who values clean romances, I noticed that sometimes fantasy romances promoted to young adults, didn't truly align with those values. This inspired me to write a series that offers engaging fantasy romance without explicit content, perfect for young adults and parents alike.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Fifth Kingdom, what would they be?

"Survivor" by Destiny's Child and "Fighter" by Christina Aguilera. My two protagonists go through a harrowing journey and they learn to fight and survive for a better future for their kingdoms. I also just love pop divas!

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Despite writing fantasy for ten years, I've only recently begun reading within the genre regularly. My reading preferences lean towards historical fiction, though I've also developed a fondness for biographies, especially when the audiobooks are narrated by the authors themselves.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Lev Grossman's The Bright Sword and Keke Palmer's Master of Me! I have them on hold on my libby app.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I particularly loved writing the reunion scene where the two protagonists meet again after years apart. I enjoyed exploring how their interactions had shifted, how they'd matured, and to delve into their internal dialogues as they processed seeing each other again.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I don't really have any quirky habits while writing. I just need a constant flow of tea and I am all set!

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Not everyone is going to like your story, but it doesn't mean you don't have a story that's worth telling. It keeps me encouraged anytime I get a less than favorable review.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

Don't be afraid to travel into realms unexplored and unknown!

Lisa M. James is the author of the new book The Fifth Kingdom

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Interview with Brogan Thomas, Author of Bitten Shifter (The Bitten Chronicles)

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Bitten Shifter (The Bitten Chronicles)?

I started with a question: If your husband of twenty-seven years cheated on you with your sister, what would you do? Then I threw in shifters, vampires, and plenty of magic.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Bitten Shifter (The Bitten Chronicles), what would they be?

Any epic break up song! 🙂

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Gah, that’s a difficult choice. If I had to choose a favourite, it would be urban fantasy. I’m drawn to stories in which magic meets the modern world, and I love writing them. I adore magical creatures, enjoy rooting for the underdog, and relish characters who start with everything stacked against them yet discover their inner strength. Ultimately, they learn to save themselves.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I’m a voracious reader and typically read a book a day, which keeps my TBR pile small. I have no self-control, so I grab new books the moment they appear on my eReader and dive straight in. I feel incredibly fortunate that so many talented authors create stories I can’t wait to explore.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favourite scene is when Lark, my main character, comes face to face with her husband and sister again. At the start of the book, she discovers them together and walks away, heartbroken. This time, however, she’s a shifter with a rather unusual ally by her side. I won’t reveal too much, but writing that moment—when she finally confronts her past—was immensely satisfying.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I always get my best plot twists when I'm trying to sleep, my characters always choose that moment to give me the good stuff, so I have to get up and write them down before I forget.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

I believe in treating others the way you’d like to be treated, and that principle influences my writing. My books often revolve around the idea that everything happens for a reason—even if we don’t see it straightaway.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

I want my readers to enjoy stepping into my characters’ shoes for a little while.

Brogan Thomas is the author of the new book Bitten Shifter (The Bitten Chronicles)

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Interview with C.E. Clayton, Author of Encryption of the Heart (Love, Tech, & Magic Book 1)

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Encryption of the Heart (Love, Tech, & Magic Book 1)?

Two years ago, I was a brand-new, first-time mom struggling to hold on to me, the author, while learning how to care for this tiny new human in my life. I had resigned myself to the idea that I just wasn’t going to write again for the next year, if not longer. But I was feeling stifled and I needed an outlet, and then one of my favorite game franchises of all time released its latest game after over ten years: Baldur’s Gate. Maybe it’s weird to credit Baldur’s Gate III with what inspired me to write “Encryption of the Heart”, but it really did! The writing and the warm nostalgia I have for this franchise sparked something in me, especially Astarion’s character arc. His story was a big inspiration for the leading male character in this book. In a lot of ways, EotH is a bit like a cyberpunk version of a druid (from DnD) and rogue romance, and that’s really all thanks to the late nights I spent playing Baldur’s Gate III in between late-night feedings of my newborn!

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Encryption of the Heart (Love, Tech, & Magic Book 1), what would they be?

I make playlists for all my books, so of course EotH is no different! But if I had to pick one song for each character, I think it’d have to be:

Olline’s song—“Good As it Gets” by Little Hurt

Casimir’s song— “Human Enough” by ONR

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

My favorite genres to read have always been fantasy and science fiction. A love that started when I was very young with reading the Dragonriders of Pern series that combined both fantasy and science fiction elements together so seamlessly. I also love a good contemporary and urban fantasy romance! Given that, is it really surprising that I love being able to create my own elaborate worlds where I can live out these fantasies of high tech, glittery magic, and swoony romance? It’s a bit of a genre blend, but that’s why I love writing in the sci-fi fantasy genre, the freedom to create and to have the best of both worlds, so to speak, is so fun to write!

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I am desperately trying to get through a lot of my physical books right now, so my TBR pile is very long! But a few books on top are: Calamity by Constance Fay, Jade City by Fonda Lee, Some Desperate Glory by Emily Tesh, and Water Moon by Samantha Sotto Yambao. There’s clearly a theme to my TBR pile! And this doesn’t even include some of the books I’ve pre-ordered…

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Without spoiling anything, one of my favorite scenes that I wrote was when the main male character watches the main female character wield magic. Being able to show how brilliant and magical she is, and the simple joy of doing something she likes, was really freeing. It was a beautiful homage to doing something simply because you enjoy doing it and having that be appreciated without having to justify why you’re spending time and energy on something that doesn’t bring in an income. It was a very validating experience given my own hobbies and passions. Too often it feels like you have to justify spending time on “frivolous” hobbies. So many people are so quick to belittle it because it’s “just a hobby”, that I loved having a character appreciate someone’s hobbies and defend her doing them. It was my way of signaling to myself, and whoever needs to hear it, that creating something simply because you enjoy the experience is more than a valid reason to spend time creating or doing the hobby.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I wish I had something quirky! My only real writing habit is that I only ever write forward. I don’t go back and rewrite until after I’ve finished the first draft. But I do write down all my editing notes and concerns and things to update or fix in a physical journal. Writing down my concerns or questions about scenes as I’m writing the story helps me process what the fear is, or think through the issue so that by the time the first draft is written, I have a better roadmap on how to fix things. Being able to check mark issues I’ve fixed in a journal is also very satisfying!

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

The philosophy I live by can be summed up fairly simply: progress is progress. I truly believe that as long as you’re moving forward, taking steps to change things you don’t like, or to accomplish your goal, it doesn’t matter if you wrote one word, took one step, did one thing on your to-do list. You still did something to move forward. Stagnation is a creativity and productivity killer for me, so I very firmly hold on to the idea that as long as I took a step, made a move toward the thing I’m trying to accomplish—like writing a book—then I have succeeded for the day.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

That kindness is not a weakness, and is often a strength. That’s the case for Olline, it’s what Casimir learns through her. Olline is strong and powerful and brilliant, but it’s her kindness that ultimately saves the day. Kindness and empathy are never weaknesses, and as Olline embraces that aspect of herself, I hope readers do, too.

C.E. Clayton is the author of the new book Encryption of the Heart (Love, Tech, & Magic Book 1)

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