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Interview with Michael Rodney Moore, Author of The Mystery Next Door

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Mystery Next Door?

This book was inspired by my granddaughter, Haleigh Rose, who was nine years old at that time. I had just published my first novel which involved the subject of human trafficking, not exactly an appropriate subject for a person of her age. She asked if she could read my book and I told her that she could read my book when her mother said she was ready. “You should write another book that I can read,” was her response. I thought about it and decided that I would accept her challenge. I considered various plots and decided that a mystery story involving a treasure would make a good story that people of all ages could enjoy. I informed her of the basic idea for the book and asked her to name the lead character. She picked the name Zoey Morganton.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Mystery Next Door, what would they be?

For Zoey and Rufus: Young Love.

For Dupree Durant and his wife Moriah: They Call the Wind Maria.

For Moses: What a Wonderful World.

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

My preferred genre for reading is historical fiction since I have a deep love of history. The Mystery Next Door was my first attempt at writing on this subject but I can see that there will be other stories that can come from this area for me. I have already considered a related story that would delve deeper into Dupree Durant’s role as a spy during the Civil War.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I'm currently reading a series by Chris Bennett called Road to the Breaking and a second series by Chris Glatte called A Time To Serve.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scene to write was in chapter one where Zoey is exploring her new home and meets Moses for the first time. It is through this exchange that the personalities of both characters were set and guided their roles throughout the rest of the story.

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

Nothing that I consider quirky but others might think differently! The only thing that I do is I let my wife; Debbie read my story before anyone else. If she likes it, then it is good to go to the paid help for editing.

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

Life is a journey that is not meant to be taken alone! I believe in love! Being in relationship is what makes life worth living. As I have grown older, I find that my memories of those that I have been in friendship with are my greatest treasures. My friends and my family are what matter to me. When I speak of love, I am not alluding to just romantic love but of the deep friendship kind. It is these types of friendships that allow people to share their greatest moments of joy with each other as well as to gather in support for their moments of despair.

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

Keep an open mind. People and things are not always what they appear to be!

Michael Rodney Moore is the author of the new book The Mystery Next Door

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Interview with John Triptych, Author of Space Clown

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Space Clown?

My readers told me my books tend to be very serious, so I decided to make a lighthearted book...

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

Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy by Ren and Stimpy.

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

I like hard-boiled detective fiction.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Too many to state!

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I had a blast writing the whole thing.

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

I write naked!

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

If it feels good, do it!

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

That it was (hopefully) funny.

John Triptych is the author of the new book Space Clown: A Humorous Sci-Fi Adventure

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Interview with Kathleen Kelly, Author of Reaper

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

I was thrilled when I was invited to write in the Royal Bastards universe. There are so many talented authors contributing different MC Chapters and series to this expansive fictional world. I already have two books published in my own Royal Bastards offshoot series, with plans for a third installment coming next year. For readers familiar with my work, you know MC romance is my genre. So I was incredibly flattered when the Royal Bastards creators asked me to put my own spin on the universe with my own MC romance-focused series. Getting to add my unique voice to such a rich, collaborative fictional world has been an amazing opportunity. I'm having a blast developing my vision within the Royal Bastards universe and can't wait to see what adventures my characters embark on next. For an MC romance writer like me, this invitation was an honor.

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

ACDC TNT, Metallica Enter the Sandman, ACDC Back in Black - hell, anything by ACDC!

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

I'm a huge fan of paranormal romance books. There's just something about the supernatural that grabs me. The premise may seem similar to MC romance - guy meets girl - but the details set them apart. With paranormal romance, we get sexy werewolves, fierce dragons, hunky vampires. Instead of biker gangs, it's secretive wolf packs and hidden covens. The relationships face supernatural complications rather than the drama of motorcycle club politics. But at their core, these two genres share a lot. They feature strong alpha male leads, independent female heroines, and plenty of action mixed with steamy scenes. The exotic, dangerous paranormal element adds excitement that contemporary MC romance doesn't have. But I love them both for the escapism and passionate relationships at their hearts. To me, shifters scratches the same itch as leather-clad bikers - I can't resist a brooding, possessive supernatural male! So while they have differences, to a romance devoted reader like me, paranormal and MC romances are satisfying for many of the same reasons.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

KE Osborn's Fixate and Fateful Hearts, she also has Obliterate coming in November. These are all MC Romance. For Paranormal my go to Author is TS Joyce.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

When Reaper sees Lucy dressed for the wedding and when he "tries" to give her a compliment.

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

I recently rented an office space to serve as my dedicated writing haven. Inside, it's filled with everything that inspires me - shelves of books, a comfy chaise lounge, and little decorative touches like crowns. The building is filled with other artists, writers, and creatives, so there's a wonderful energy of productivity and passion. I love having a sanctuary like this that's solely devoted to my passion for the written word.

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

To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all. For years I worked in an industry I didn't like. Now, I'm living the dream.

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

I'd want readers to remember the main message or theme of the book - whether it's about love or friendship and being loyal to those you love.

Kathleen Kelly is the author of the new book Reaper, Royal Bastards MC: Jacksonville FL Chapter

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Interview with David Mintzer, Author of Soul Deer

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Soul Deer?

The story is about a group of veterans who find out their fellow veteran is dying and they decide to take him on a raucous tour of Europe as his last wish. It was inspired by actual events.

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

Across the Universe by The Beatles. Not sure why. Just feels right.

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

I generally read biographies and non-fiction. Not my genre at all.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Heat 2 is at the top. Mindhunters and various graphic novels that have been recommended to me.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The hospital escape was hard to write because I kept laughing.

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

I need noise. I usually have the news blasting as I'm writing.

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

All I know is that I don't know anything.

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

I'd like for them to remember the emotions that it brought out that will hopefully lead the reader to some positive change in their worlds.

David Mintzer is the author of the new book Soul Deer

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Interview with Harper Michaels, Author of Forever Yours

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Forever Yours?

I love the brother’s best friend trope, so I wanted to write a new adult romance with the theme at the fictional university, Crestwood, that I created in some of my other books. Sophie thinks she is the victim of unrequited love, which I totally get because I have been too. She’s also a bit geeky and awkward, also like me. And finally, who doesn’t wish the older guy they were crushing on liked them right back?

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

Sophie- Definitely Taylor Swift’s Love Story, it’s the first song that she danced to with Liam, and it describes her mentality. She’s looking for the fairy tale.

Liam- Avril Lavigne’s Complicated, because that’s how he views life. Things are always getting in his way, and at first, he views love as nothing but a complication.

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

Yes and no. I love any type of romance. So far, I’ve only written new adult and contemporary romance. I also like to read paranormal romances.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

So, so many. I’ve been obsessed with Red, White, and Royal Blue since the movie came out, so I’ve also read the book multiple times. Now, I want to read everything Casey McQuiston has ever written. Also, Penelope Ward’s newest release I Could Never, and anything that Sara Ney writes automatically goes on the list.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The emotional scenes are my favorite ones to write. So, essentially the scene where Sophie is telling Liam that she loves him, but she can learn to live without him.

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

I must have noise when I write. Complete quiet kills me.

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

Finish the darn thing! That’s a quote from my author mentor, Carol Shaughnessy. It’s the first thing she told me about my manuscript when we met.

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

That even though you may be in love with someone, it doesn’t mean that you should let them walk over you. Stand up for yourself, even in romantic relationships.

Harper Michaels is the author of the new book Forever Yours (My Obsession Book Two)

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Interview with John Deal, Author of Beautiful Death

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Beautiful Death?

For as long as I can remember, I loved to read. Over time, I dreamed of writing my own book and finally did. In September 2021, my first novel was published; since then, two more have been published, and I continue to read and write.

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

Like the genre I write in, I’ve always loved mystery, thriller, and suspense. Mysteries for the whodunit component, thrillers for their fast-pace and sheer excitement, and suspense for what will happen next.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

My TBR pile is quite large now… Slaughter, Gardner, Olsen, Wolfe, and McFadden. I usually read the first book in a series and continue through them all. In addition to well-known authors, I enjoy finding those lesser-known authors. There are lots of gems out there.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scenes to write were the last two chapters, where I reveal the ultimate antagonist and yet another twist… then one final twist for the reader when they believe the story is done.

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

I’m not sure it qualifies as a quirk, but I write by forming the plot in my head, jotting down a couple pages of bullets to serve as key milestones, and then write on my laptop in Word. As I go, I ponder what should happen next and what the character should do.

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

“Don’t let the fear of failure keep you from trying.”

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

Beautiful Death made me feel happy, sad, sick, confused, and thrilled. A good thriller should be a roller coaster.

John Deal is the author of the new book Beautiful Death: A Dark Psychological Thriller

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Interview with McKinley Aspen, Author of Cogitatio

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

Life in general inspired me to start writing this series. I find it interesting that people don't see the magic of life when it's all around us at every moment. With that in mind, I decided to write about the HOPE that is always around us, even when we cannot see it, feel it, or touch it.

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

Kate: Build Me Up, Buttercup; Michael: I Ain't Worried (One Republic); Greg: The Impossible Dream (Man Of LaMancha Soundtrack); Ashley: Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life); Raphael: If God Will Send His Angels (U2); and of course Jacqueline Paolucci - our "antagonist" - Killer Queen (by Queen).

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

Fiction - all subgenres ... and poetry as well as classic literature. I write action adventure and also spy/mystery and while I like to read that, I enjoy reading a variety of other styles as it keeps my imagination alive.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Nicholas Eternal (Kim Conrey); A Thread So Fine (Susan Welch); A re-read of I Wrote This For You (Iain S. Thomas); Also eagerly looking forward to April 2024 when Brian Panowich will release Nothing but the Bones

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The prologue - although I wrote it last and then in collaboration with my editor we realized it was actually the prologue.

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

My dog, Otis, sits next to me when I write. When I have a question, or get stuck with a character, we take a walk and discuss it (well, I discuss it, Otis listens).

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

I'd rather be 9 people's favorite things then 100 people's 9th favorite thing (from one of my favorite off broadway shows entitled Title of Show)

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

HOPE is alive even when you think things are "hopeless". Remember, just because you cannot see it, feel it or touch it doesn't mean it's not real.

McKinley Aspen is the author of the new book Cogitatio (Shadows In The Wind Book Two)

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Interview with M.L. Dunker, Author of The Tales of Zren Janin

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Tales of Zren Janin?

I love to travel and I meet so many interesting people around the world. But when I would read books, I didn’t see the same diversity of people and places. So, I started to write about the people I knew and loved. That’s why you find my books have many characters not found in mainstream Euro-American storytelling. I set the fictional world in the South Pacific – a place I felt comfortable and accepted. I wanted to bring characters to life who struggle with disabilities in a world that refuses to make simple accommodations, with gender spectrum personalities who are trying to find acceptance for their authentic selves. I began with mental skirmishes and then escalated to a physical war for social justice. And if that sounds bleak, rest assured some characters see a “Happy Ever After,” or at least a “Happy for Now.” We all need to be seen for who we truly are.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Tales of Zren Janin, what would they be?

For Zren Janin – The Beatles “I get by with a little help from my friends.”

For Rell Huena – Queen – “We are the Champions”

For Bima Ritwik (the Spymaster who runs softfoots for Vikland) and Ngahuru (The Spymaster who runs the Wrens for the resistance) - Anastasia “Namaka – goddess of the sea” (A song about revenge between two Hawaiian goddesses)

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

I read everything from alternate history to urban fantasy to steampunk to pioneer tales and sci-fi. I don’t read romance. It can be a side story in a book, but no big themes. The only exception is Margaret Rogerson. She’s amazing and I will read anything by her.

To write? Yes and no. I think there needs to be many more books about the South Pacific, Hawaiian mythology, pre-colonial stories. I see a very small wave, but I want to be a part of a tsunami of world literature in every genre.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

So I checked my Goodreads want to read, my physical book stacks, and my Libby tags. It was an ugly 400+ books. I am concentrating on indie authors, steampunk (anything with flying airships), and South Pacific/New Zealand/Philippines. I am not bored.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

There are so many! I would say anytime there was a significant plot twist, character redemption arc, or Bima Ritwik slithered into the room. He isn’t a villain, but he uses villainous ways to stand up for justice. I still can’t decide if he is a good guy with bad moral choices or a bad guy who aligns himself with the heroes for his own reasons. I’ll let the reader decide.

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

I do. I wrote the Tales of Zren Janin series in the early morning hours (think 4:30 am early). I would read what I had written right before I went to bed and then tried to dream about my characters. In the morning, I would begin writing down my dreams. NO ONE in my house was allowed to talk to me until I emerged from my ‘writing room’ at 10 a.m. Sometimes these massive dream dumps were *chef’s kiss* and sometimes they became fire starters.

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

I have several, depending on the situation: “Adventure awaits!” “Success begins by rolling up your sleeves.” And before every speaking engagement, I calm myself by reciting the speech from Dune that begins “I must not fear. Fear is the mindkiller… and when fear has passed, I will remain.”

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

“None of us has so many friends, we can afford to throw any of them away.”

M.L. Dunker is the author of the new book The Tales of Zren Janin (Boxed Set)

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New Mystery and Thriller Books to Read | August 29

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 Michael Rodney Moore, Joe Lyon, John Deal, and many more. Enjoy your new mystery, thriller, and suspense novels. Happy reading!

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New Romance Books to Read | August 29

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 Kathleen Kelly, Harper Michaels, H. Hunting, and more. Enjoy your new romance books and happy reading!