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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Walls of Silence?

This is a story of the stark contrast between public personas and private realities, terrifying hidden secrets, and personal resilience.

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

I like reading multiple genres. I’ve published two historical fiction books. This is my first foray into the romantic thriller and the mind of a killer.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scene to write was when the villain concluded he wasn't home free after all.

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

I love talking to my characters. But then lots of authors do.

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

Hope on.

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

We’re all still a work in progress and that’s okay.

Susan N Swann is the author of the new book Walls of Silence

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Red: Poetry & Prose – Beware of the Wolf?

Poetry, for me, has always been a wellspring of inspiration, especially the works of Rupi Kaur and Amanda Lovelace. 'RED' germinated from that inspiration, nurtured over four years and a few transformative poetry classes. At its core, it's a love letter to the coming-of-age narrative, woven with a reimagined tapestry of fairy tales that celebrate female empowerment. Although I often dwell in the realms of fantasy and romance, 'RED' represents a creative departure, allowing me to explore new horizons in a genre I deeply adore.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Red: Poetry & Prose – Beware of the Wolf, what would they be?

For RED, the main character we follow in this poetry & prose journey, I would recommend the following songs based on her journey:

Part 1: "As it was" by Harry Styles, and "Bones" by Imagine Dragons.

Part 2: "Traitor" by Olivia Rodrigo, "What was I made for" by Billie Eilish.

Part 3: "Empty Cups" by Charlie Puth, and  "Lover" by Taylor Swift.

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

I’m an eclectic reader, however, the main genres I enjoy are fantasy and romance.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

This space isn’t large enough for my ever-growing TBR. What I’m most excited about coming out this year is Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Eek picking my favorite poem is like picking my favorite child. I think for me the ones around sisterhood in part 3 are the most powerful messages that I’m proud of. I think so many times women are pitted against each other, and I love when we can come together in unity. It’s a beautiful thing.

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

My yellow Labrador, Piper, is my office/work companion. She’s usually with me when writing or reading providing her story approval with well-timed snores.

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

‘Don’t look back to go forward.’ This is me being in my creative flow to tamper down my inner critic.

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

I hope readers close 'RED' with their hearts a little fuller, embracing the ever-evolving journey of life with hope. May they find freedom from the confines of 'should' and 'supposed to,' discovering that the truest path is the one they forge for themselves.

C. M. Newell is the author of the new book Red: Poetry & Prose – Beware of the Wolf

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Deadly Gamble (Deadly Series Book 11)?

The Deadly Series focuses on different aspects and events of WWII. Portugal's neutrality made a wonderful backdrop to a story of murder and espionage.

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

My favorite to read and write is historical mysteries.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Lynn Morrison's Rex and Dora series, T E Kinsey's Lady Hardcastle series, L B Hathaway and Verity Bright.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The kidnapping scene with the Nazis and the Atlantic beaches in Portugal.

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

No music, little activity.

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

Leap and the net will appear.

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

History can teach us a lot, even fictionally derived history.

Kate Parker is the author of the new book Deadly Gamble (Deadly Series Book 11)

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The First Lights of Eventide?

When Neely discovers the former site of the Mountain Lodge Hotel in rural Alabama.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The First Lights of Eventide, what would they be?

"Peaceful, Easy Feeling" by the Eagles, "Song from a Secret Garden" by Secret Garden.

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

Historical fiction, time travel fiction, women's fiction, and historical romance are my favorites to both read and write.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

The Robinswood Story by Jean Grainger, The Forgotten by Irina Shapiro, and This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Describing details of the crumbling circa 1883 historic hotel and Neely's reaction when she meets Ned for the first time.

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

I listen to specific music that matches the era I'm writing about at the time.

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

"Historical Fiction writers breathe life into those who have gone before us..."

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

We should discover and save the hidden national treasures that define our country's history.

Jaye Burke is the author of the new book The First Lights of Eventide

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write A Tale of the Nine Lands?

I've always loved fantasy. My earliest reading memories are of the Redwall series by Brian Jacques and soon after, Harry Potter. Since then I've read and watched countless fantasy works and I have always wanted to make my own, especially because I feel there's so much more magic (if you can call it that) in our real world than we can see. This book is intended to entertain people and to inspire them to overcome adversities. Fantasy makes that concept more exciting and palatable.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of A Tale of the Nine Lands, what would they be?

Probably some kind of mix between "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor and "Sounds of Silence" by Simon and Garfunkel because all of my characters need motivation and inspiration as they face their inner demons.

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

Fantasy! Generally epic fantasy with themes of sorcery/magic.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Fourth Wing - so I can see what the fuss is about. I need to finish a couple in the Witcher series. I want to read more of Robin Hobb, too! She crafts plots like no other. To be honest, anything and everything fantasy.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The battle between Rakuul Mordaker and Theo, or the bet of destiny between Exiluk and the goblin captain.

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

I would love to have a writing cat mascot, but the apartment I rent is no pets. One day!

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

Many! But it all boils down to something like this: Improve your habits, mindset, and health, and you will thrive. I just need to think of a catchy way to present that

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

If you enjoyed it, remember that feeling, hang on to it, and enjoy it some more! And whether you enjoyed it or not, review it constructively so others can get an idea of whether they would like it or not.

J. K. F. Sandham is the author of the new book A Tale of the Nine Lands

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write I’m Not Dead…Yet?

This is a memoir based on my life experiences. I’ve been through a lot in my life, and I always feel a need to give back to others. The hope is that by sharing my own struggles, others may feel less alone in their lives.

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

My favorite genre is self-help and books on business and psychology.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Unapologetic by Charlene Carrithers.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The final chapter. It brings everything together in a way that helps to build closure and hope.

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

My cat Harlowe and my partner Justin are my muses.

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

It’s not mine, but, “Never invite someone over for dinner with the expectation that they will do the same.”

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

Never give up hope.

Dr. Joshua J. Caraballo is the author of the new book I’m Not Dead…Yet

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