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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Talking About Adolescence (Book 2)?

The Talking About Adolescence series came from a very personal place for me. As both a healthcare provider and a parent, I’ve seen firsthand the struggles young people face—some of them truly heartbreaking. Moments of deep sadness, like hearing about losing lives from violence or suicide among teens, left a lasting impression on me, showing just how much they need support and guidance during such a vulnerable time. I wanted to create something that could really help, something accessible that teens could turn to for real, science-backed information about what’s happening in their bodies and minds. It’s not just about throwing facts at them—it’s about helping them understand themselves better, so they can make decisions that shape a brighter future. In a way, I see this series as offering them a map and a flashlight to find their way through the often confusing and overwhelming path of adolescence. My hope is that this series becomes more than just books; I want it to be a trusted source of support, empowering young people to rise above the challenges, avoid the hidden pitfalls, and embrace their full potential. If it can make even a small difference in their lives, then I feel I’ve done something truly meaningful.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Talking About Adolescence (Book 2), what would they be?

"Rise Up" by Andra Day. It's an empowering anthem that encourages resilience and perseverance, which aligns perfectly with the book's themes. The lyrics emphasize overcoming challenges and rising above adversity, making it both enjoyable and inspirational for adolescents and teens.

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

I love reading young adult romance and inspirational nonfiction. There’s something so uplifting about the emotions and growth these genres capture. It’s no surprise that they’re also my favorite genre to write. I enjoy exploring relationships and personal journeys, making writing in these areas both meaningful and rewarding.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Insigh by Tasha Eurich.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I enjoyed writing the section about brain development in adolescence. To make this complex topic more engaging, I used Minecraft—a popular 3D sandbox game—as an analogy. It helped me explain how the brain grows and builds connections in a fun and easy way for readers to understand. Seeing such an important concept come to life through something relatable made it a favorite for me to write.

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

One of my quirkiest writing habits is listening to music that matches the emotion of the scene I’m about to write. It helps me immerse myself in the mood and bring out the right tone in my words. For instance, I might listen to Itzhak Perlman's rendition of John Williams' Schindler's List theme when working on a particularly emotional section. The haunting violin stirs up a deep sorrow, translating into the emotions I want to convey in my writing. Music sets the stage for my creative process and helps me connect more deeply with the story.

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

I’ve always believed, “If my writing can make a difference in even one person’s life, then it’s all worth it.” This philosophy is what keeps me going, especially on the days when writing feels like an uphill climb. It’s about more than just putting words on paper; it’s about creating something that connects, resonates, and helps someone feel seen or inspired. That thought alone makes all the effort feel meaningful.

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

If there’s one thing I hope readers take away from my book, it’s this: Your teen years are a golden opportunity to nurture your rapidly growing body and brain. By understanding how they work and taking care of them now, you’re setting the foundation for an incredible future. This stage of life is precious—don’t let it slip by without making the most of it.

Eichin Chang-Lim is the author of the new book Talking About Adolescence (Book 2)

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Flight of the Windigo?

I made a short film at Film School about thirty years ago and the essence of the story stuck with me all these years.

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

The Good, The Bad and the Ugly theme song.

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

Western or Adventure. That's what I like to write as well.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

The Captured, Behind the scenes making of John Ford Cavalry films, Pony Tracks, Charles Goodnight.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The confrontation in the outpost where they try to get at the aviator's partner and he holds them off.

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

Standing to write so my shoulder doesn't get bound up and hurting like it did during Covid - got a lot of writing done during the pandemic!

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

Put the time in and it will add up to something someday.

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

The characters.

Eric H. Heisner is the author of the new book Flight of the Windigo

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write A Realm of Dust and Sorrow (Elemental Realms)?

A Realm of Dust and Sorrow was inspired partly by world events. The scarcity of food in our own world helped shape the world of Nadaira. And the actions of the main characters show how determination can change the entire fate of a world. Sometimes, it takes a different view to fix a problem. The fantasy world came to me when while I was digging in the dirt, trying to plant a few seeds.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of A Realm of Dust and Sorrow (Elemental Realms), what would they be?

If I had to choose a theme song for Senelow, the main character, I would choose "Til the Light Goes Out" by Lindsey Stirling. I listened to this song while writing the final scene, and it perfectly fits her attitude from her first step away from the safety of her town until the final battle.

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

My favorite genre to read is young adult fantasy. It doesn’t matter if it’s contemporary, urban, epic, or sword and sorcery. I love all fantasy books. I think that’s why I haven’t settled on one specific genre, and I write in multiple fantasy genres.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

My TBR pile has gotten a bit out of control. There are so many books I want to read. Like all of them. At the top of the list are Lightlark and Five Kingdoms: Sky Raiders. I also have Ashlords at the top of the pile, Seraphina, everything by Sarah J. Maas, and The Dark Is Rising Sequence. I know it’s a lot, and that barely scrapes the surface.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scene in A Realm of Dust and Sorrow to write has to be when Senelow and her friends save the baby koolax and return it to the other koolaxes. I love creating the different creatures in my books and when they can be saved, it makes my day.

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

When I’m writing, my biggest quirk is needing to have music on in the background. Depending on what scene I’m writing depends on what I’m listening to.

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

I try to live by the philosophy of leave it better than you found it.

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

Even if something seems too hard, remember you might be the only one who can do it, and if you keep pushing ahead, you’ll succeed. And maybe even save the world.

H.M. Sandlin is the author of the new book A Realm of Dust and Sorrow (Elemental Realms)

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Hidden: Triquetra Prophecy Book One (Gods Among Us 1)?

I've always loved mythology, fantasy, and science fiction. The inspiration for this story, and indeed, the arc for the triology, came from the struggle to adapt when the world changed so dramatically during the pandemic. I didn't want to write a pandemic story, so I rocked my main characters' world by altering what they knew to be true.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Hidden: Triquetra Prophecy Book One (Gods Among Us 1), what would they be?

Shannon's song would be "Unstoppable" by Sia.

Loki's songs would be "Believer" by Imagine Dragons, "Born For This" by The Score, and "Centuries" by Fall Out Boy.

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

Fantasy, Science Fiction, Romance...usually a mix of those three.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Lindsay Buroker's Curse and the Crown series.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Writing Loki as a cat was all kinds of fun, but I think a favourite of this book was the one where Shannon is gifted fighting abilities by Odin, then explains to Loki why Odin and Frigga knew what Shannon's reaction would be.

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

While I definitely prefer to write while sitting on my chaise, which includes my two cats and sometimes my dog on the floor beside us, I've also written in bed, on a plane, in a car, at the soccer field, at a restaurant or wherever I can manage to block out at least an hour or more.

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

Don't sweat the small stuff, but fight for things worth fighting for.

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

Even if it all goes wrong and your world shatters, stand up for yourself. Don't let anyone tear you down.

Melody Grace Hicks is the author of the new book Hidden: Triquetra Prophecy Book One (Gods Among Us 1)

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