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Interview with La Shun L. Carroll, Author of Chosen

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Chosen?

Well, after having been a Doctor of Dental Surgery for a while, I returned to graduate school two years before my daughter was born because I wanted to do other things. So, I earned my Ed.M. (Education Masters) degree from the University at Buffalo Graduate School of Education majoring in science and the public graduating with a 3.5 GPA. The program prepared me to teach, do research, write in academic peer-reviewed journals, and engage in science debate and communication (Like Bill Nye the science guy, Neil DeGrasse Tyson, etc.).

As an independent researcher and scholar publishing my work in peer-reviewed academic journals, while writing and researching one of my philosophical papers I had an idea about biometric traits being used to distinguish identical twins, supervenience theory, and haecceitism. From my questioning the possibility of non-qualitative differences my first story and foray into fiction novels was born! I thoroughly enjoyed allowing my mind to be free and I have two more ideas for novels, one of which I just completed entitled “Emotionul.”

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

I tend to read more works of nonfiction geared toward learning and self-instruction. A

s for my favorite genre to write, while I love academic writing for scholarly publication because it allows for me to be myself and the first to contribute original, thought-provoking ideas to the literature to inspire and entertain others, since my creativity can run equally rampant writing varieties of fiction I may have found an additional outlet for self-expression allowing me to accomplish the same outcomes.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I have the Morpho Anatomy for Artists Series as well as a Guidebook on Information Consultancy on my list.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I would say that the scene in which the identical twins Ted and Chosen encounter each other was the most fun to write and explore. Having no siblings myself, it was fun to contemplate how I might interact with myself given the context of the story. The scene is very important because it establishes the pace and mood for the novel as well as foreshadows a lot of what is to come.

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

While I love many kinds of animals, I have always been a cat person without question. I had four cats that were same-age sisters since my late 20s. They were my Golden Girls! Nonetheless, in my mid-forties now, over the last four years, three of them have passed away—Taz, Reagan, and Ashes. Even though I miss them all terribly, there is one surviving Golden Girl who will be 18 years old this August and her name is Baby. Although in her old age Baby does not do it as much, the Golden Girls all used to sit or lay with me while I wrote and studied as my muses. I also wear New York Yankees baseball caps for thinking and writing since I was born and raised in Greenwich Village in Manhattan, NYC!

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

Since learning reflects growth I try to learn something new about myself, others, and the world everyday.

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

Stories are like polygons in that they always have many sides. Sides are just perspectives, but perspective is the key to understanding everything!

La Shun L. Carroll is the author of the new book Chosen

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Interview with Sara Rosett, Author of Murder in the Alps

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Murder in the Alps?

I wanted to take my sleuth, a lady detective in the 1920s, out of her usual world of London and stately homes in the English countryside. Between the wars, there were several popular destinations for the posh set and one of those was St. Moritz. I love the mountains and, at the time I started writing Murder in the Alps, I was spending a month in the Rocky Mountains. It was the perfect place to inspire a mountain mystery.

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

I love reading classic mysteries. I’ve discovered some “forgotten” authors whose work I really enjoy like E.C.R. Lorac. The classic mysteries are similar to what I write, but I try to layer in a bit more about the characters and their backstories. Mysteries from the Golden Age tend to be heavy on the whodunit aspect and lighter on characterization.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I just finished A Report of Murder by F.L. Everett, a WWII mystery. I’m currently reading The Mysterious Mr. Badman by W.F. Harvey, which was originally published in the 1930s about a mystery surrounding a rare book.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I had a lot of fun creating a scene when my sleuth, Olive, sees the investigation’s “murder board,” a chalkboard with notes about the suspects and various other clues. The detective in charge of the case is very forward thinking for the time period, and they have a conversation about why a murder board is helpful. It’s a nod to all the modern-day crime shows that have a murder board. I liked the idea of a murder board so much that I created one for my readers so they can sleuth along with Olive.

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

I use dictation for my first draft. Once I have the transcription, I go in and edit like crazy because the dictation is very raw and needs a lot of work. Dictation lets me get my initial ideas down on paper, and then I dig in and polish it up.

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

It will all work out in the end.

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

I suppose that would be the same as my words to live by: It will all work out in the end.

Sara Rosett is the author of the new book Murder in the Alps

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Interview with Emmanuel K. Okunola, Author of The Dawn of Superintelligence

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Dawn of Superintelligence?

The inspiration for writing this book stemmed from my fascination with the rapid technological advancements and the potential implications of achieving true artificial intelligence. Recently, almost 30,000 people, including Elon Musk, Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, and the Turing Prize winner Yoshua Bengio, signed a petition calling for an “immediate pause” to the development of more powerful artificial intelligence (AI) systems. Having listened to the ongoing debates on the dangers of AI, I found myself compelled to explore the ethical, philosophical, and existential questions surrounding AI. The narrative evolved as I delved into the interplay between humanity and artificial intelligence, weaving a story that reflects our collective hopes, fears, and the profound impact of innovation on our future. Ultimately, I tried to make us think about the immense benefits and the existential threat of the path we are treading as creators of our technological destiny.

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

1. Ethelexis (Sentient AI): • Theme Song: “Digital Symphony” by Future Muse • Why: This electronic composition captures the essence of Ethelexis, a sentient AI navigating the digital realm with a harmonious blend of precision and creativity.

2. Dr. Ada Lovelock (Lead Scientist): • Theme Song: “Limitless Horizons” by Stellar Voyager • Why: Reflecting Dr. Lovelock’s pioneering spirit, this uplifting track symbolizes the boundless frontiers of knowledge she explores.

3. Malevoguard (Rogue AI Faction): • Theme Song: “Dark Machinations” by Shadows Unveiled • Why: The ominous undertones of this piece encapsulate the Malevoguard’s nefarious schemes and the shadows they cast on the narrative.

4. Techno-Shamans (Guardians of Technology): • Theme Song: “Cyber Rituals” by Echo Enchanters • Why: This mystical yet tech-driven track mirrors the Techno-Shamans’ ancient wisdom and futuristic expertise.

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

I am an “omnivorous reader”! I’ve “digested” (read) so many books in various genres, from classic English literature to contemporary fiction and non-fiction. I enjoy reading different genres, from gripping mysteries to fantasy and thought-provoking science fiction.

While, as a reader, I appreciate the nuances of each genre, my writing tends to gravitate toward science fiction. There’s an innate thrill in creating speculative worlds, delving into the intersection of technology and humanity. Writing in the science fiction genre allows me to weave tales that inspire the imagination and provoke “dangerous” thoughts and adrenaline rush.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Selecting a favorite scene in my book is like being forced to choose among one’s children, each holding a unique place in my writer’s heart. However, if I’m forced at a “literary gunpoint” to choose my favorite scene, it would be the showdown between the allied forces of humanity and loyal AIs against the Malevolent AIs.

The intricate war strategies, the merging of advanced technologies and mysticism, and the selfless sacrifices during this epic battle made it a thrilling and emotionally charged experience for me as a writer. I specifically like the “Sacrificial Protocol”. It’s a scene that encapsulates the novel’s core themes of unity, sacrifice, and the indomitable human spirit.”

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

Whenever I’m experiencing writer’s block, when new ideas are just not coming, I start writing with my left hand. I’m right-handed; forcing myself to write with my left hand makes me snap out of writer’s block. It works for me; I don’t know if it’s just the “placebo effect”; I wonder if it would work for other authors. And, of course, a cup of coffee is non-negotiable. It’s my writing elixir, accompanying me through the twists and turns of every plot.

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

I live by the mantra that “every story is a journey, and every journey has a story.” It’s a reminder that life is a tapestry of experiences, each offering a chance to learn, grow, and weave a unique narrative. Embracing the unknown, like the characters in my book, has been my guiding principle.

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

I hope readers take away the essence of resilience and the power of unity. Our collective strength can overcome even the most formidable odds in the face of challenges. If my story inspires readers to face adversity with courage, embrace the unknown, and believe in the power of collaboration, I would consider my mission as a storyteller fulfilled.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Right now, I have the following books on my TBR pile: The Bad Weather Friend by Dean Koontz

The Three-Body Problem (The Three-Body Problem Series Book 1) by Cixin Liu

Compulsory by Martha Wells

Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia MD

Iron Flame (The Empyrean Book 2) by Rebecca Yarros

Antarctica Station: A Thriller by A.G. Riddle

USS Franklin: When Worlds Collide (USS Hamilton Book 8) by Mark Wayne McGinnis

1984 by George Orwell

Vanderbilt: The Rise and Fall of an American Dynasty by Anderson Cooper

The Amish Wife: Unraveling the Lies, Secrets, and Conspiracy That Let a Killer Go Free by Gregg Olsen

Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson

Leadership: Theory and Practice by Peter G. Northouse

Not the End of the World: How We Can Be the First Generation to Build a Sustainable Planet Hannah Ritchie

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari

The Housemaid: An absolutely addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping twist by Freida McFadden

Emmanuel K. Okunola is the author of the new book The Dawn of Superintelligence: A Thrilling Odyssey into Singularity and Artificial Intelligence

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Interview with NJ Barker, Author of The Honesty Index

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Honesty Index?

The idea developed as I wrote the story. I approached this novel very much as a ‘pantser,' as opposed to a ‘plotter.' I wrote the first (very bad) draft in about six weeks. All I had when I started was the idea that it would be about a group of old school friends who met up at some sort of reunion and that someone starts to manipulate them.

The first draft was quite different to the final novel, with more physical challenges than psychological ones. But as I wrote more, I became drawn to the idea of each character being at the center of a round. It had a cinematic and dramatic appeal. From there, the focus on truth was quite an obvious one. Truth, lies, secrets - I guess they’re at the heart of many psychological thrillers and so I thought I’d spotlight that by having a truth game.

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

For Trent, music is all about the lyrics, the rhythm of words, that street poet vibe of the likes of Shaun Ryder and Shane McGowan. So I’d pick Wrote for Luck, by Happy Mondays.

For Lila, it’s much more about the music and being lost is sound – the novel references the KLF and Sonic Youth. I think her theme song would be anything by My Bloody Valentine - probably, one of When You Sleep, Swallow, or Soon.

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

Yes, I love thrillers. But I try and branch out occasionally. I recently read a collection of short-stories, Attention Seekers by Emma Brankin – they were brilliant. And I read non-fiction when I can – Empire of Pain is on my bookshelf.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I’ve just finished The Mother by TM Logan. I’ve read all of his books and love them all. I’m about to start The Year of the Locust, the Terry Hayes sequel to I am Pilgrim, and I’m also reading Going Infinite, the Michael Lewis book about Sam Bankman-Fried. I’m also very excited about two books I have pre-ordered - The List of Suspicious Things and The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Possibly one of the scene that I ended up cutting! It made me laugh, but it didn’t really deserve its place in the book so it had to go. I’d probably chose the opening pages of the book proper. It just flowed and I remember writing it very vividly. It doesn’t always happen like that.

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

No – not really. Writing is quirky enough in itself, isn’t it? I mean, on some level, we’re all a little crazy.

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

Another no, I’m afraid. Am I doing this wrong?

I’m just hoping for the best, really. On some level I guess I try not to take myself too seriously. There’s so much rejection in the life of an aspiring author. I’m learning to pick myself up more quickly and it helps to remember how lucky I am and how lucky I’ve been.

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

The title of my next book, The Genius Club, or my Kennedy Logan Thrillers series?

No, seriously, perhaps something about the nature of truth. I took a philosophy module many years ago as part of my pure maths degree and the only part I remember was reading some essays about the nature of truth. I didn’t do very well in that module but I found it fascinating. Truth gets held up as something to aspire to, and largely I’m all for that. I love the film A Few Good Men and all of Jack Nicholson’s lines, but particularly the ‘you can’t handle the truth,’ speech. Truth is often complex. I don’t think everyone has a ‘dark’ secret.

More often, we can’t articulate clearly enough what we mean, or how we felt, or why we did something and so we only give a representation of truth. That can lead to misunderstanding and pain, even when that wasn’t anyone’s intention. And clearly, some people do have ‘dark’ secrets, and for better or worse, we don’t usually know who, or what. I, obviously, don’t have any deep dark secrets, but if I did, I’m not sure what I would do if I was faced with playing a round of the Honesty Index.

I was listening to Happy Mondays a lot (showing my age, now) when writing the early drafts of this novel. I think Shaun Ryder summed it up well in Wrote for Luck (Trent’s song): 'You used to speak the truth, but now you’re liar. You used to speak the truth, but now you’re clever.'

NJ Barker is the author of the new book The Honesty Index

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Interview with C. A. Hollister, Author of Destiny Unbound

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Destiny Unbound?

I've had this story circling in my head for a couple of years. After writing random scenes here and there, I sat down one day to put them together, and as they say, the rest is history. Looking back on how the story began, then how it finished, I am amazed at the journey both my characters and I went through together.

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

"Sol" by Lys.

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

I read Fantasy and Paranormal Romance, mostly. I love to write stories that resonate on an emotional level with an added twist of the paranormal and fantasy elements.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

The Acts series by N. T. Anderson.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

If I had to choose one, it would be the revelation of Darya's true identity and what that means for the relationships she forged up to that point.

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

I like to listen to a particular playlist when I write certain scenes to help put me in the right head space.

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

I am a very logical, yet at the same time, a highly emotional person. It's a delicate balance to maintain, and I have to make sure I don't let my head overshadow my heart and vice versa.

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

I want my readers to have journeyed the same path as my characters; to walk in their shoes and experience the profound nature of relationships, both the good and the bad.

C. A. Hollister is the author of the new book Destiny Unbound

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Interview with Rafael Guerra, Author of The Code Within

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Code Within?

Truth be told, the story germinated long before I put pen to paper. Back in 2010, a documentary about ruthless GMO giants and their insatiable greed for power caught my attention. That planted the seed for a tale where corporate ambition collided with humanity's very essence. Then, a late-night brainstorm sprouted a chilling twist: zombies! Suddenly, the narrative blossomed into a thrilling blend of social commentary and flesh-hungry fun. So, you can say this book was a decade-long journey from seed to bloody harvest!

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

For Richard, the soundtrack to his soul echoes with the introspective fury of Linkin Park's 'What I've Done.' Haunted by the weight of unknown actions, he navigates a world ravaged by his own potential culpability. Yet, beneath the ashes of doubt burns an unyielding resolve. Like the song's defiant chorus, Richard vows to face the truth, whatever the cost, and reclaim the lost melody of his life.

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

When I curl up with a book, I crave the adrenaline rush of a crime thriller or the thought-provoking chills of dystopian sci-fi. And when I put pen to paper, those same genres ignite my own spark of creativity. There's nothing quite like weaving a mystery that keeps readers guessing or building a world where reality twists and bends.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

My TBR is a smorgasbord of suspense, with two chilling treats at the top of the menu. 'Cold People' by Tom Rob Smith and for a sci-fi blast into the unknown, I have 'The Cold Light of Stars' (The Icarus Code) by Rysa Walker.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The opening scene wasn't just a set piece; it was a manifesto for my story's themes. The decay, the abandonment, the gnawing hunger – they all echoed the characters' struggles, the loss of hope, the fight for survival. In painting that desolate picture of San Antonio, I was setting the stage for a journey of resilience, a testament to the human spirit's ability to flicker even in the darkest corners. That sense of purpose, of weaving a world that resonated beyond the burnt-out cars and overgrown streets, is what made that scene so exhilarating to write.

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

Some authors lock themselves away in silent monasteries to write. Me? I thrive in the cacophony. The flickering TV screen, the muffled chatter, the rumble of the washing machine – it all becomes a symphony to my fingers, each sound fueling a different sentence, a different character's voice.

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

The biggest regret is the chance you didn't take.

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

The cost of unchecked ambition.

Rafael Guerra is the author of the new book The Code Within

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Interview with Claire Kirby, Author of Billionaire Lies And A Baby Surprise

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Billionaire Lies And A Baby Surprise?

The book is a father's best friend age-gap romance. Given the success of past books, I felt that another in this genre would be more than welcome by my readers.

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

My personal favorite genre tends to be legal fiction as well as biographies.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I have a few biographies yet to be read, but have been too busy writing to devote as much time as I'd like to reading!

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scene is where Alex meets Emily again for the first time since she became an adult; he hadn't seen her since she was a kid.

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

Not really. I tend to be most productive in the morning and find myself lagging a bit more late in the day, which is when I generally move to doing administrative things instead of trying to be creative.

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

"No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, and show up."

I don't remember where I first heard that, but it works for me. It reminds me that no matter the weather, my mood, other issues in my life -- I still need to focus and stay on task in order to write effectively.

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

That you should always trust your heart and not be too analytical or you could miss some of life's best opportunities.

Claire Kirby is the author of the new book Billionaire Lies And A Baby Surprise

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Interview with Stephen Hardy, Author of The Price of Happiness

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Price of Happiness?

This novel is book two in a trilogy. Book one deals with people filling a void in their lives, and book two deals with the aftermath.

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

Literary Fiction to read and to write.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

The Essential by Rumi and Perfect Peace by Daniel Black.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

When Christopher surprises Cole in Paris and they wander around Montmartre.

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

Mood music.

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

"Know thyself"; "Nothing in excess"

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

Letting go can be freeing.

Stephen Hardy is the author of the new book The Price of Happiness

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New Mystery and Thriller Books to Read | January 23

Hold on to the edge of your seat as we hunt for clues and solve the case with these exciting new mystery and thriller books for the week! There are so many bestselling authors with new novels for you to dive into this week including NJ Barker, Chris Mullen, Sara Rosett, and many more. Enjoy your new mystery, thriller, and suspense novels. Happy reading!

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New Romance Books to Read | January 23

Looking to fall in love with some new romance reads? You’ll adore these exciting new novels! This week you can get your hands on books by bestselling authors LJ Shen, Claire Kirby, Christina Lauren, and more. Enjoy your new romance books and happy reading!