Category: Author Interview

Author Interview – Cary Anne

Author of the steamy romance novel, Seductive Sands.

I am very pleased to welcome Cary Anne to my blog this week, and we’re chatting about her steamy romance series Unveiling Desires, and the first book, Seductive Sands.

Helen: Welcome Cary Anne. Let’s dive straight in, tell us about your book, Seductive Sands.

Cary Anne: Seductive Sands is the first book in the series, Unveiling Desires.  The main character is Devon Cartwright, a career oriented financial planner whose main goal was to obtain the role of partner in the firm she worked for.  After accomplishing this, she had a terrible loss of both her parents within a few months of each other.  Her friend and client, Margarette, has a villa in the Dominican Republic and offers it to Devon for six months, if she wants it.  Devon has not had a vacation in years and takes her up on it.

Helen: Who wouldn’t want a six month vacation in the Dominican Republic? Sounds like bliss! Especially if there are characters like Amadeus available. Tell us why you chose this cover design.

Cary Anne: I have always loved the Dominican Republic, the ocean and the people. So, I decided that I wanted my book to take place there and what a great cover a picture of the ocean would be. Of course, I had to use the male model Amadeus on the front, to entice the ladies to want to read my book. 

Helen: I love finding out the authors thoughts behind their cover. How did you come up with the title, and is there any special meaning behind it?

Cary Anne: I write steamy romance and I needed the title to suggest the genre and I think it gets right to the point, by the title and subtitle. Seductive Sands, Unveiling Desires Series.

Helen: The title sounds perfect. What made you choose to write spicy romance, and why this particular book?

Cary Anne: I was still working at the time I put this into draft.  I was working at a financial institution, and this is where my character Devon evolved. It was from the perspective of a young single woman trying to make it in a male dominated financial industry.  It was difficult for a woman to get to become partner in a firm, especially being under 30 when she started and also that she was single. Often the management style was older married men, who were not going to take time off to have babies and sick kids who needed to be looked after. It evolved into a romance novel.

I had this book written before Fifty Shades was released. I put it on the back burner after reading Fifty Shades. I wondered if my book was actually good enough to be published. So, I waited.

Several of my friends read it and kept telling me it was better than Fifty Shades in my writing style and I should publish it.

Helen: It is so great to have supportive friends. Who inspired you to start writing?

Cary Anne: I began writing years ago, initially just for myself. It was therapeutic when I felt stressed or needed to vent. While working full-time, I wrote speeches and presentations for my team. I’ve always enjoyed putting pen to paper; it feels natural. I remember my mom saying I should write stories because I told so many. I think she meant I talked too much and made things up as I went along.

Helen: A natural story teller is a great place to start. Do you find you plan your books, or are you a pantser and write free form?

Cary Anne: This is a great question.  I was a pantser with my first book. Then I didn’t know how to publish it, and that’s when I enrolled in the course.  I have learned so much in the past year about how to plan out each book so that I make sure it flows and I wasn’t missing anything. I realize how important it is in order to get the right outcome for my book. So now I am definitely a planner.  I start with a plot board and work my way through how I want each chapter to accomplish.  Once I have the book laid out I start writing each chapter.

Helen: I think the more you write, the more your writing style evolves. It’s great you are writing a series, what comes next?

Cary Anne: I am currently in the editing process of the second book in the series, Urban Seductive, which takes place when Devon gets back home and tries to keep a long distance relationship with Amadeus going.  It was fun writing this one because I put obstacles in the way of Amadeus coming to see Devon. 

Helen: Authors are so mean to their characters. As if a long distance relationship wasn’t difficult enough! Every writer experiences self-doubt. How do you overcome the fear and the little voice in your head to keep writing?

Cary Anne: Imposter syndrome. That’s when I rely on others to read what I have written and ask for feedback. I ask other authors, too. As you said, every writer experiences self-doubt. You need to try new things and be open to what other people say.

Helen: What is the most useful piece of writing advice you’ve received, and by whom?

Cary Anne: The most valuable writing advice I received from my coach was to keep writing, do your research, make your characters relatable, and ensure fact-checking. Additionally, remember reviews are for readers, not writers. Not everyone will like your book.

Helen: Great advice. Is there any advice you would like to share with aspiriing writers?

Cary Anne: Everyone has a story within them. Write it and discover where it leads. Keep honing your craft. Take courses if needed. It’s never too late to begin.

Helen: Thank you so much for joining me today. It has been lovely meeting you. Last question, what is the best thing that has happened to you since you began writing?

Cary Anne: I didn’t know anything about writing a book, so I enrolled in a self publishing course and I have learned so much this past year and I am really enjoying working with the coaches and my fellow authors/students.  I have a whole new group of friends who started the writing process just a new as I did.  We are all learning and sharing and helping each other.  It is a fantastic community.

About the Author

Cary Anne

Greetings, lovely readers! I’m Cary Anne, your passionate guide into the world of steamy romance fiction. Proudly hailing from the charming landscapes of Canada, I currently call the suburban bliss near Toronto, Ontario, my home sweet home, where I share my days with my wonderful husband. Our nest is empty now, as our two grown children navigate their own paths through the intricate dance of life.

After bidding adieu to the corporate world, I’ve finally embraced my call to writing. The allure of crafting tales of passion and love proved irresistible, and I’ve found immense joy in weaving stories that transport readers into the realms of desire and romance.

When I’m not engrossed in the world of my characters, you’ll find me relishing moments with my family. Whether I’m holed up in my writing haven or hitting the road, shuttling between my cozy spot in Whitby and my daughter’s farm in Delta, Ontario, each journey is a wellspring of inspiration.

Beyond the written word, I find solace in the laughter of my grandkids and the amusing antics of their feathered companions in the form of quirky chickens. A true lover of all animals, especially dogs, I cherish the unconditional love and companionship they bring into our lives.

But that’s not all—I also harbor a deep passion for breathing new life into old furniture, turning forgotten pieces into vibrant works of art. And, of course, no writing session is complete without the company of black licorice, my sweet companion in this delightful journey of storytelling.

So, dear reader, join me in exploring the realms of desire, love, and the magic that unfolds between the pages of my steamy romance novels. Let the journey begin, and may it be filled with the warmth of love and the joy of delightful companions, furry or otherwise!

Author Website

Purchase Cary Anne’s book, Seductive Sands (Available on Kindle Unlimited at time of posting.)

Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback

Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback

As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.

If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring

By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.

Author Interview – Liisa Sabah

Author of the epic fantasy novel, The Cocoon Within

I am very pleased to welcome Liisa Sabah to my blog this week, and we’re chatting about her epic fantasy novel, The Cocoon Within.

Helen: Welcome Liisa. I am very excited to learn more about your epic fantasy book. Just looking at the cover, it looks to be quite the adventure. Tell us about your book and how you came to write it.

Liisa: I absolutely loved the journey of writing The Cocoon Within! It’s funny because how I started the book was quite unintentional. One day  I was actually in the middle of writing a different book, and was taking a break from it,  I was just sat doodling at my laptop, staring at a blank word document, and I thought, let me just write what pops to my mind, and so I did, and I wrote the first page of chapter one of The Cocoon Within. I left it on my laptop for about a year, whilst I finished the other book (which is currently unpublished) and then I went back to that one page and carried on writing, until 324 pages later, voila!  The Cocoon Within emerged!

The Cocoon Within is an easy ready, it’s fast paced and it’s an exciting fantasy adventure story, it has ten lengthy chapters and is full of twist and turns, unusual characters and fantastical and colourful worlds and creatures. Of course as with most fantasy books it has a  good versus evil theme in the story, there is of course some violence in the book, including battle scenes, and that’s why I set the reading age for age 13 upwards, and whilst the genre is set at young adult, 18+ readers are also enjoying the book.

The Cocoon Within, has been described by US online book club as being reminiscent of the Chronicles of Narnia, Harry Potter and even Alice in Wonderland! In this epic fantasy adventure, young Ariana finds an ancient and mysterious book in her attic and unusual things begin to unfold. Not only does she have strange dreams and visions, but she also begins to see real life creatures from another realm, and it seems that she may not be the only one that can see them! To top this all off she discovers that her own identity is more than she could have ever imagined, and that her new dog isn’t just an ordinary dog. Together Ariana and her best friend and unexpected love interest, Jack, and the popular and stunning Jessica, are drawn into the adventure of their lives, where everything changes, and they are transported to another world. Not only does Ariana discover her true identity, but along with her friends, they embark on a spectacular quest where they are faced with a great battle against dark and evil forces, which threaten to overpower them all and destroy the world as they know it!

Helen: It’s funny how we are in the middle of writing one book and another amazing idea comes along to distract you. I must say that your cover is absolutely gorgeous. Tell us how you came up with the design.

Liisa: As with any story, the book evolved during my writing journey, and once I had decided to include a great winged lion to appear in the story as one of the key characters, I just knew that he had to feature on the cover of the book! Of course the ancient mystical book that Ariana finds in her grandfather’s attic, was the catalyst to the beginnings of the entire fantastical adventure of flame haired Ariana, our brave yet endearing protagonist, who also had to feature on the cover, with Lifeblood sword in hand.

So I searched for an image of a lion, an ancient book, and a red haired girl with a sword, from the images on the site that my publisher had given me to browse. When I came across the lion and book which was a single image, with its bursting flames of colours, I knew I just had to have that for the cover! When the creative designer merged the images of Ariana with the blazing lion and book, both my publisher and I were ecstatic at the result, it was bold, bright and certainly eye catching, capturing the essence of the story. Later on, I connected my cover choice with my own personal faith, the Lion representative of God, the ancient book representing the Holy scriptures, and Ariana, representing the believer holding the sword of the spirit. Readers may recognise the allegory in the references to the spiritual battle of good vs evil in the story, which was part of my inspiration to write this fantastical adventure.

Helen: I love finding out the authors thoughts behind their cover. How did you come up with the title, and is there any special meaning behind it?

Liisa: Yes, human beings are capable of so much and the power in our mind / inner being is often underestimated by most. I believe that we are capable of achieving amazing things beyond our own current thinking, if we tap into our source. I chose the title ‘The Cocoon Within’, to represent the power within us, that can be unleashed by transforming our thinking. Mindset is everything. Just like Ariana discovers her true identity and exactly what she is capable of. So do we, travel on this path called life, a journey of discovery about who we are as individuals, and it’s our thinking that ultimately shapes the person that we become, reflective in the life that we lead.

Helen: What would your main character say if I asked them why we should read your book?

Liisa: Ariana would say, come follow me on a journey of adventure and discovery, where the unseen becomes more real than the seen. Who knows. It might even change the way you that see things! I think she would also tell you that she didn’t know her own strength until she was faced with great adversity and challenge. That she made some amazing friends along the way, and though she didn’t have the easiest start in life, don’t let that stop you from becoming the person that you are meant to be. She would say if you read The Cocoon Within, perhaps her story might inspire you to be a little bit braver, a little bit more resilient and a little more curious about the world around you and all that you see… and all that you don’t see!

Helen: Lovely message. When did you first realise you had a passion for writing?

Liisa: Ever since I was a young girl, I loved to read! Childhood favourites were the Chronicles of Narnia, The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and then as a teenager, I must have read every Agatha Christie book going! Moving on to some of the great classics, from Charles Dickens to Jane Austin, I simply loved to read. And as far back as eight or nine years old, I loved writing stories, English was a favourite lesson of mine, because I got to write essays, and I dreamed of one day writing a book of my own and becoming an author.

My family emigrated to West Africa when I was about ten years old and I was almost fifteen when we returned to the UK. It was an unforgettable experience that involved a lot of hardship that we had never experienced as a family before. My mother always said that we should write a book about our time in Africa, and her words have always stayed with me. Did I ever write that book? I hear you ask…the answer to that is…yes, I did write that book, for my mother. It was the very first book I ever wrote, deeply personal and which is currently an unpublished work, that took me two years to complete, once I really knuckled down to write it. I then went on to write my debut fantasy adventure book, The Cocoon Within, which took me 10 months to complete and which I published earlier this year, and the rest, as they say, is history!

Helen: Congratulations on completing and publishing your book. Such a huge accomplishment. With your first novel being epic fantasy, do you think you’ll continue to write fantasy or will you branch out into a different genre?

Liisa: Whilst my first published book is a fantasy adventure book, as previously mentioned, my very first written work was in fact a memoir, albeit written as a novel based on true events. I am still a very new author, and I am learning a lot on this author journey, still honing my craft, trying new things, because every day is a school day, right! Personally, whilst I absolutely love the fantasy genre, I am keen to branch into other genres. Whilst the current book I am writing is part two – the sequel to The Cocoon Within, the way my brain works, I get so many ideas for stories pop in my imagination, so I just jot them on a word document or notepad and save them. Every so often, I will add a little more to the story ideas, and play around with the plot, with the intention to go back to them and turn them into the beginnings of a new adventure story! I have been toying with the idea of trying my hand at a family drama with a twist, and even a romance novel, though who knows, perhaps combining both elements into a fantastical adventure, could be the end result! Writing is such an adventure in itself, because you may start the story one way and end up through the twists and turns of the journey, going in a completely different direction than you first intended, as you allow your imagination to generate new and exciting ideas along the way, that you didn’t originally think of. Sometimes a picture or a place, a song, or even something someone has said in my day-to-day life, gives me inspiration for a scene or story line to add to my writing. Though for now my main focus is the sequel to The Cocoon Within and I am just over 40,000 words into the story, so watch this space!

Helen: That is so exciting, I am so glad you are writing a sequel! I was going to ask what you are working next, so tell us a little about what you are writing now.

Liisa: I am currently writing the sequel to The Cocoon Within, I have almost finished chapter four, and I am targeting myself to finish it by the end of this year. I quickly discovered that it is no mean feat, trying to write a series, as there is a lot of back and forth, trying to tie up the previous story lines and loose ends etc to make everything come together into yet another exciting book. I have got the plot going pretty well now and I am introducing some new characters, I am really excited about book number two, and the scale of the story itself is much wider. Ariana discovers more about Elopia and the other realms, but I shan’t give you any spoilers. If I were to summarise, I would say that the sequel will certainly hold as much, if not more fantastical adventures and action as The Cocoon Within, so stay tuned for its release date, I will be posting updates on Facebook as I approach the end of the story. To whet readers’ appetites ahead of the sequel’s release, I have created a little video trailer for book number two, which is on my Facebook page!

Helen: Thank you so much for joining me today. Just to close us out, what is the best thing that has happened to you since you began writing?

Liisa: I can’t detract from the most obvious thing, which is of course holding a physical copy of my finished work in my hands, there is nothing like it! Even now I still get that wow feeling, when I hold a copy of my book in my hands, and I think ‘Did I really write this?’ I feel humbled, awed, amazed and of course so grateful whenever anyone purchases a copy of my book. It’s humbling and exciting to know that someone wants to read the words that I have put together in a book, and I hope that my stories touch the hearts of readers and engage their imagination for a long time to come. It’s a feeling of unexplainable joy being able to get your creativity out in the world for readers to connect with, and I also really do appreciate every reader that takes the time to write a review for my book. Reviews are like gold dust to the author, so thank you to those active readers out there!

The other day I was at a retail outlet having a great conversation with a customer representative about my book, I offered the rep a free signed copy of my book, as I happened to have a few copies with me. I was, however, bowled over that the rep refused the free copy, saying that they wanted to support me as an author by purchasing a copy, and they did so on Amazon in that very moment! The interest and support from the public has just been the absolute best, and I cannot say thank you enough to all the readers out there!

About the Author

Liisa Sabah

Author, doodler, dreamer, believer and self-confessed animal lover that just loves to share exciting adventure stories with the world! And positive vibes! #Mindset is everything! Liisa was born in Bedfordshire and spent her formative childhood years there until the age of ten when she emigrated with her family to West Africa, where they spent the next four years, before returning to the UK. Liisa is half Finnish and half Ghanaian by heritage, she has a passion for travel, too much coffee and a love for animals, especially those roaring big cats…lions! Her Christian faith influences her fantasy writing, with themes of the spiritual battle of good vs evil and adversity and challenge that the characters strive to overcome. Liisa is fascinated by the human psyche and has a strong belief that the human mind is capable of so much more than we know, she likes to read books about personal development, mindset, and transforming the way that we think.

Author links

Facebook page

Purchase Liisa’s book, The Cocoon Within

Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback

Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback

As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.

If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring

By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.

Author Interview – Christine Skippins

Author of the children’s book The Magic of Misty Nook: Santa in a Camper.

I am very pleased to welcome Christine Skippins to my blog this week, and we’re chatting about her children’s book series, The Magic of Misty Nook.

Helen: Welcome Christine. I am very excited to learn more about your series of children’s books set in Misty Nook. Tell us about the lastest, Santa in a Camper

Christine: The Magic of Misty Nook, Santa in a Camper is a fun romp through a Christmas party with current and past residents of the Misty Nook animal haven. Dogs and cats abound, and much fun is had by all! Each year, the elves that run Misty Nook (including Santa, himself and managed by Woody the Staffy dog) animal rescue throw a lavish party and invite past residents of Misty Nook to show they have not forgotten those alumni dogs and cats that have gone on to forever homes. I love that all the animals have such diverse personalities in the way they enjoy the festivities, and the separate feasts for dogs and for cats that allow their particular preferences to shine through. This book is a cute read, and would be great for a child with a bit longer attention span than other, pure illustration books with a line of text for each picture. The lovingly crafted portraits of the animals are great, though I would have liked to have seen some depictions of the party space. The book closes with Santa taking off in his camper van to deliver presents all over the world, after handing out gifts to the cats and dogs at the party. It’s a great, simple story for Christmas.

Helen: Your characters are bright and with lovable animal characters. Who is on the cover of Santa in a Camper?

Christine: So why shouldn’t our pets have a Fabulous Christmas party? The cover depicts Woody one of the main characters in his Santa outfit.

Helen: What made you write this particular book?

Christine: The book is inspired by volunteering at a local animal rescue centre and showcases the ways in which the staff enrich the lives of the animals that stay there. It also highlights how they stay in touch with their animal family even after they are rehomed.

Helen: How wonderful. That is a lovely message to remind children of the work that goes on behind the scenes in an animal rescue center. Who is your protagonist and why did you write her/him?

Christine: My Misty Nook stories all revolve around a Magical Animal Centre run by Woody, a Staffordshire Terrier who is the chief elf. He’s inspired by a real-life dog called Woody, who sits at the reception of the animal centre where I volunteered checking everyone in and out, and nothing happens without him knowing!

Helen: My Mum had a staffie. They are the most adorable dogs and so affectionate. I can imagine Woody running the centre. How do you get the ideas for a new book?

Christine: Inspiration is everywhere, and I have a head full of story ideas for both Adult and Children’s stories, so watch this space!

Helen: Typically you write and illustrate children’s book. Have you ever thought about writing in other genres?

Christine: So far, I have been focusing on writing children’s fiction about animals because it combines my passions and skill set. However, as my writing style has developed, I am also writing some adult fiction short stories to explore that genre as well.

Helen: Now Santa in a Camper is out, what are you working on next?

Christine: I’ve just completed a science fiction short story for a writing challenge, and now I’m going to work on my mother’s story. Born in 1937 in London, her early years were lived through the horrors of WW2. It’s my aim to bring her memories of dodging the bombs and being evacuated to the countryside alive. This story, based on fact, will preserve her memories for subsequent generations.

Helen: That is so exciting. I imagine that project, enshrining your mother’s memories in print will be so special. When did you realise you had a passion for writing?

Christine: I have always enjoyed drawing and writing, and creating children’s books has allowed me to develop as both an author and an artist.

Helen: Are you a pantser or a planner? Do you write free form, or do you have a framework you stick to?

Christine: My first draft is always a sensory word dump, and its from that that my story evolves.

Helen: Which element of the writing process do you find most challenging and why?

Christine: With a creative mind, my biggest challenge is checking and rechecking my text, as I have an emotive rather than a detail-oriented eye. I also struggle with knowing when the text is ready for publishing because every time I read and reread, I always find a way to tweak it!

Helen: Do you listen to music when you write, if so, what do you listen to and why?

Christine: I love music and listen to the radio when I am working. Writing is a lonely business, and it helps me to have real life in the background.

Helen: Every writer experiences self-doubt. How do you overcome the fear and the little voice in your head to keep writing?

Christine: I have a small group of amazing advisors, friends and family, who constantly remind me that I am good enough to put myself and my work out there with the best.

Helen: It’s so good to have a support system. Writing can be an emotional rollercoaster. What is the most useful piece of writing advice you’ve received, and by whom? And what advice would you give aspiring writers?

Christine: “Show, don’t tell when you write” is the best advice a retired literary agent gave me. Believe in yourself, and put your best work out there, but be open to feedback, your first book is the start of your journey, where each one will be better than the one before.

Helen: I know most writers are great readers as well.  What is your favourite book and why do you like it so much?

Christine: My Reading Choices vary, but I like reading books where I can relate to the location. For example, a rom-com set on a Greek Island or in a French town with markets and cafes or a detective story set in Brighton, the city near where I grew up.

Helen: Thank you so much for joining me today. Just to close us out, what is the best thing that has happened to you since you began writing?

Christine: On publication, my Grandson Harry proudly takes each one of my books to school and shows off my picture on the back of the book to anyone who will listen. To me, that is a priceless pride and memory.

About the Author

Christine Skippins

Christine (Chris) Skippins enjoyed a lengthy career in finance before she turned her attention to writing and illustrating. It wasn’t long before she discovered her niche.

Her involvement with a local animal rescue centre, which she joined to contribute to a community charity, sparked her inspiration. The animals she encountered and the dedicated team that rehabilitated them motivated her to create “The Magic of Misty Nook” series.

Now, Chris animates delightful animal characters through her stories, showcasing how frightened and lonely creatures find love and compassion at Misty Nook.

As a teenager, Chris worked at a pet store and often attempted to take in rabbits, guinea pigs, and even puppies that needed homes—much to her father’s initial reluctance. Eventually, her father relented, and Whiskey the Collie was welcomed into their family. Over time, Whiskey and many other pets became an integral part of Chris’s life.

Born in Chichester, England, Chris is a mother to an adult son and daughter, as well as Rizzo the Spaniel. She’s also a grandmother to Harry and Sienna—her wonderful grandchildren—and Ivy and Rolo—her ‘granddogs’.

Amazon Author page

Purchase Christine’s book, Santa in a Camper

Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback

Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback

As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.

If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring

By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.

Author Interview – Dante Terese

Author of the science fiction novel The Base.

I am very pleased to welcome Dante Terese to my blog this week, and we’re chatting about her novel, The Base, which is now availabe in audiobook.

Helen: Welcome Dante. I am very excited to learn more about your series.

Dante: “The Base – Book 1” is the first in a series that is being converted to a screenplay and marketed for film and television.  The story follows the most top-secret military base and the military research scientists who work there.  The Base is where the military sends scientists when they notice exceptional talent or profound expertise to work on the newest most top secret classified inventions.  As new scientists arrive, the military issues futuristic assignments to the group, then spies and thieves try to steal it.  It is a crazy cycle that repeats with many dynamic variations.

Helen: How did deciding to write a series instead of a single novel impact your cover design?

Dante: We just finished a photo shoot for the new cover.  I had a lot of feedback from readers who didn’t want the story to end and wanted a sequel, they especially liked The Bug Man, a military research scientist who is an expert on insects.  So, I made the decision to write the sequel which is copyrighted, and ready.  

Since “The Base” is now a series, I needed the books to have similar covers – so lights, camera, action!  The photoshoot on a small farm in Butler, PA the birthplace of the Jeep began.  I was fortunate to get two vintage military Jeeps and three actors to portray the lead scientist characters in the book for book covers photoshoot.

Helen: I bet that was fun, actually directing a real photo shoot for your vision of the cover. How did you come up with your titles?

Dante: I had the privilege of visiting a few military bases in my lifetime and was very struck by the strong sense of community and the families I met there.  I did not copy the people I met or the actual settings they lived in but I did want show the strong bonds some of the workers and their families had.  While the residents were sometimes formal when they spoke to a person of a higher rank by addressing them by their title, everyone called their place The Base.

Helen: Sounds very fitting. Who is the protagonist in your novel, and why did you decide to write them?

Dante: I am the daughter of a research scientist and for much of the book we see the story from the eyes of Macie, the young daughter of Cullen the military research scientist.  I found it helpful and sometimes very humorous to explain the story from the perspective of a young child.  Macie gives a clean unfiltered view of some of the events and in other instances paints a picture that leaves some room for the reader’s imagination to supply the missing details.  I was afraid to show this book to my father because I knew he would research it and critique my research, but I am happy to report he found my research to be sound.

Helen: Oh my, how nerve wracking. That have been quite a relief to pass muster! Who were your favourite characters to write?

Dante: The most challenging part for me was writing the villains who are tremendously successful from a financial standpoint but really evil people.  It was a difficult balance to show their lifestyle but not glorify what they do but I believe it was worth the effort.

Helen: Getting the balance right and making them believable can be quite challenging. Did you have to do a lot of research for The Base?

Dante: I do tons of research because I want the book to be challenging and plausible for the audience.  It was amazing how many times when I set out to study a topic how I was proven wrong and pointed into a completely different direction, I am very thankful for that because I didn’t want the readers to feel cheated or serve them something that was a thin piece of pure fantasy.

Helen: Research can take you down a rabbit hole! I think all writers have a head full of useless trivia from all the weird things we look up. What is the most useful resource you use in your writing?

Dante: I can’t say enough good stuff about libraries!  They are an absolute gold mine of information and the best part is it is all FREE.  I am so thankful to my parents for introducing me to this before I started school.  I have always had a library card; I continue to go there frequently for my research and reading.  They are an absolute treasure.

Helen: Thank you so much for joining me today, congratulations on the release of your audiobook version.

About the Author

Dante Terese

Dante Terese is a dynamic new voice in fiction, blending deep themes with compelling narratives in her work. Her debut novel, Sex, Death, & Diane, celebrates the courage of those who dare to think independently and speak their truths, exploring the quiet power within each of us. Her recent science fiction release, The Base- Book 1, takes readers into the high-stakes world of military research, where ethical dilemmas and espionage intertwine in a suspenseful tale of innovation and integrity. This is the first book in a series.  She is also a baker, pastry chef and gardener who does volunteer work in the many communities where she has lived.

https://www.danteterese.com/

Purchase Dante’s book, The Base:

Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback | Audio

Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback | Audio

As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.

If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring

By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.

Author Interview – Samuel Lawson

Author of the YA fantasy Earth Protectors.

I am very pleased to welcome Samuel Lawson to my blog this week, and we’re chatting about his fantasy Slovian Chronicles series.

Helen: Welcome Samuel. I am very excited to learn more about your series. Tell us a little about your latest book.

Samuel: High school is a battleground, but for Tommy, it’s where his true destiny awaits. Born beneath a sky where fate is written in the stars, Tommy Archer is anything but ordinary. Bullied and overlooked, Tommy’s life takes a cosmic turn when new students arrive at school.
Suddenly thrust into a world of magic and mayhem, Tommy discovers his true purpose—to save the world from impending doom. With his newfound friends by his side, Tommy embarks on an electrifying adventure where courage is tested and alliances forged. Can they defy the odds and protect humanity from its darkest hour?

Helen: I am assuming your main characters are on the cover. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?

Samuel: I chose the cover because it visually encapsulates the essence of my characters and the challenges they face. It portrays their journey and the looming threat to Earth, which is central to the plot. The mysterious and adventurous feel of the design symbolizes the balance between their ordinary teenage lives and the extraordinary destiny that awaits them.

Helen: It definitley gives an adventurous vibe. How about the title? How did you come up with it?

Samuel: The title Earth Protectors came naturally because it perfectly reflects the core of the story: a group of teenagers tasked with the monumental responsibility of saving Earth. The title captures the gravity of their mission, and I felt it was the best fit for the story’s theme of protecting the planet from total annihilation.

Helen: What made you write this particular book?

Samuel: A part of me wanted to see myself in the story, so I created a character who reflects bits of my own life’s experiences. Writing Earth Protectors was a way to channel those reflections into an imaginative adventure, incorporating themes that resonate with me personally, like friendship, courage, and self-discovery.

Helen: They say we all write from experience. If your main character could answer this question, why would they say we should read your book?

Samuel: Tommy would probably say you should read the book because it’s not just about saving the world but about discovering the hero within yourself. Everyone has fears and insecurities, but it’s about facing them head-on. He’d tell you that this is a story of friendship, courage, and standing up for what’s right—even when the odds are stacked against you.

Helen: Love it! Which genre do you prefer to write?

Samuel: I write primarily in fantasy because it allows me to explore the boundaries of imagination without restrictions. Fantasy lets me create entire worlds, characters, and realities that wouldn’t exist otherwise, giving me the freedom to weave complex stories with magical elements and universal themes.

Helen: It is freeing when you don’t have to abide by known facts and you can make up your rules. Where do you get your ideas from?

Samuel: Ideas can come from anywhere—books, movies, conversations with friends, or even observing what’s happening in society. I get a lot of inspiration from movies because they provide a vivid backdrop of action, drama, and suspense that I try to replicate in my own storytelling.

Helen: Tough question next. Who is your favourite character?

Samuel: All my characters are my favorites, but if I had to choose one, it would be Tommy. He’s the heart of the story, and his journey from a shy high school nerd to a courageous Earth Protector is something I’m really proud of.

Helen: Writing is addictive. When did you realise you had a passion and you had to share your stories?

Samuel: My passion for writing began in high school when I was inspired by a writing competition I never entered but always wished I had. That unfulfilled desire to participate pushed me to create my own stories. Over time, that spark turned into a passion, leading me to write two books, starting with what I call “drawer plays”—unpublished works that were, in hindsight, pretty terrible! But the positive feedback from friends and adults helped encourage me to pursue writing seriously.

Helen: The more you write, the more you learn. Writing is a craft like any other skill. Which part of the writing process do you find most challenging?

Samuel: For me, the most challenging part is maintaining consistency in pacing and structure. Sometimes I find myself getting carried away with certain scenes, which can disrupt the balance of the story. It’s a continuous learning process, finding that sweet spot between action, character development, and plot progression.

Helen: Who inspired you to write?

Samuel: While I don’t read as much as I should, watching movies sparked my imagination and gave me ideas for my stories. Films provide that visual and cinematic atmosphere that I try to bring into my writing. In terms of specific influences, Hades from Percy Jackson and the Olympians and General Zod from Man of Steel were inspirations for creating my antagonist. J.K. Rowling and Rick Riordan, in particular, motivated me to keep writing and not give up.

Helen: Every writer experiences self-doubt. How do you overcome the fear and the little voice in your head to keep writing?

Samuel: I remind myself that self-doubt is part of the process and that no writer is perfect. Whenever the little voice in my head gets too loud, I take a break, watch a movie, or read something that inspires me. I also look back at what I’ve accomplished so far, which helps to push me forward.

When I hit writer’s block, I stop and take a break. Watching a movie often helps clear my mind, and before I know it, new ideas start flowing. Sometimes, stepping away from the project for a bit can make all the difference.Stop what I’m working on for a while to see a movie then get back to it after some ideas pops back to head.

Helen: Great advice. A change in environment often helps to break a certain chain of thought. Do you find you plan your books or are you more of a pantser?

Samuel: I’m more of a pantser. While I like having a general outline of where the story is going, I prefer to let the characters and plot develop organically. I enjoy the freedom that comes with writing in the moment and seeing where the story takes me.

Helen: If you didn’t write fantasy, then which genre would you like to try and write next?

Samuel: Thriller. In fact, I’m currently working on a thriller, and I’m excited about the direction it’s taking. I hope to release it soon!

Helen: Most writers also read a lot. What is your favourite book, and are there any other books you would you recommend?

Samuel: One of my all-time favorites is Percy Jackson and the Olympians. I love the blend of mythology with modern-day adventure. The characters are relatable, and the humor makes it a fun read, while still maintaining a sense of epicness. I would recommend The Hunger Games series for its fast-paced, gripping plot and the way it tackles societal issues through a dystopian lens. The Maze Runner is also a great read for fans of intense, action-driven stories.

Helen: Some great recomendations. What advice would you give new writers?

Samuel: Take a chill pill. You have everything it takes to write a novel. Mistakes will happen, but they’ll make you better over time. Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back, because you never know which book will resonate with readers. Keep writing, keep improving, and enjoy the journey.

Helen: Thank you so much for joining me today, Samuel. It has been great meeting you. Just to finish, what is the best thing that has happened since you started writing?

Samuel: The best thing has been connecting with readers who enjoy my genre. The positive feedback I’ve received, not just locally but from international readers as well, has been incredibly fulfilling. Knowing that my stories resonate with people around the world is a reward in itself.

About the Author

Samual Lawson

My name is Samuel Lawson. I am the author of two books out of Lagos, Southwest Nigeria, and I am also a twin, so heads up, you might mistake my brother for me like most people do…. lol.

My writing blends emotion and adventure, aiming to inspire young adult readers to conquer their fears. In my books, you will find life lessons delivered with love and laughter are the hallmarks of my world. When not crafting stories or reading, you will find me playing the piano, listening to music, seeing a movie, or scrolling through my socials.

Follow Samuel:

Purchase Samuel’s book, Earth Protectors:

Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback

Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback

As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.

If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring

By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.

Author Interview – Julie Pike

Author of the children’s fantasy book, Flame Chasers.

I was thrilled to meet children’s fantasy author, Julie Pike, at a local book fair in Bracknell, and I am so happy to be chatting to her on my blog this week.

Helen: Welcome Julie. It’s great to speak to you again. I am excited to talk to you abour your books. Tell us about your latest book, Flame Chasers.

Julie: Flame Chasers is a magical children’s adventure about flamebirds, family and friendship. The flamebirds crackle through the night sky like fireworks. Once every year they stop at Bright Beacon to rest before continuing their journey – where to, exactly, no one knows. Anyone lucky enough to touch a golden tail feather will be granted a wish, so their fiery arrival has become the start of a strange race. Boats full of Flame Chasers gather in the harbour, ready to dash across the ocean in hot pursuit of the Phoenix-like flock. Ember is desperate to join the chase but is devastated when Pa leaves without her. She’s not the only one left behind: on the rocks there is a beleaguered little bird, a cinderling, a flamebird unable to return home to recharge its magic. Ember is determined to find a boat so she can look for the flamebirds secret home, and in so doing, find her Pa and save the cinderling.

Helen: Oh, that sounds amazing. What a wonderful story. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?

Julie: The beautiful cover for my story was designed by children’s book illustrator David Dean. He was commissioned by my publisher, Firefly Press to create a bold, colourful and action-packed cover.

To help David envisage my story world, I developed a mood board of images that I’d used myself to inspire the adventure. These included pictures of ‘Bright Beacon’, images of my flamebirds, my characters, and the story’s squash buckling settings. David’s concept took my breath away. I love its rich colours and swirls of magic as he seamlessly combines these elements to create a whirlpool effect, cleverly mirroring in design the action of the story itself.

Helen: I love learning the detail behind the covers. I think titles are sometimes even harder to think up! How did you come up with your title?

Julie: For a long time, the draft title of the story was called Feather Flame, but as I worked through the drafts, I realised the story was about so much more than the magic in the birds flaming feathers. It was about the characters that chased the flamebirds tails and what they hoped to do with the wishes they yearned for. I also wanted a more action-led adventurous sounding title to appeal to children, and a shorter title than that of my first book. Shorter titles are easier to remember and work better for hashtags. I played around with a long list of title ideas, but once I’d combined the noun and verb, I knew I had the perfect title. Luckily my publisher agreed, otherwise we’d have all gone back to the drawing board!

Helen: I love the title you chose, as you say it works really well. Which genre do you typically write?

Julie: All my stories have a fantasy twist to them. I’ve tried writing contemporary tales, but as I write each scene my brain always offers up a delicious magical ‘what if’ which I find impossible to resist!

Helen: Most writers are great readers as well. What is your favourite book and how did it inspire you write fantasy?

Julie: Gosh, I have soooo many favourite books, but if I had to pick one, then I’d cheat and say The Abhorsen Trilogy by Garth Nix. It’s not really a cheat because the three books are part of the same story arc. For a long time, I knew I wanted to write stories, but I didn’t get serious about it until my 40s – partly because I didn’t think a kid from a council estate was ‘allowed’ to be an author, and partly because I didn’t know what stories I wanted to write. All that changed when a friend gave me the first book of the trilogy, Sabriel, and said, ‘Read this, you’ll love it!’ She was right. That story lit my imagination like nothing else. I didn’t want to leave Garth’s magical worlds, so I resolved to create my own. If not for Sabriel’s and Lirael’s stories, I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t be a writer today.

Helen: I’m so glad your friend gave you the book. I loved Sabriel as well! It’s been fun chatting but before we finish, could you share one of the best things that has happened to you since you began writing?

Julie: Garth Nix has a saying, which I cleaved to when I was an aspiring author. He said (and I think he’s also quoting another here, but I’m not sure who) ‘nothing can happen until you finish it’. It took me six years to write my first story and five years to write my next. Finishing both stories was a major achievement and filled me with life affirming confidence. Many wonderful things have happened since the first time I wrote ‘The End.’

It’s hard to choose just one, but I think it would have to be an early book signing in Waterstones Bournemouth. I met a young girl, who’d read my story and was eager to meet me. So much so she ran into the bookshop and hovered shyly by my signing table. Her parents said she’d run across the car park to meet me. Wow! I’d never expected that! I knew of course it wasn’t ‘me’ she was desperate to meet. She wanted to meet the part of me who’d written an adventure that had made her soul sing. She reminded me of the person I’d been at the age of eleven, eyes shining like stars as I read new worlds filled with adventure. The day I met that young reader, I knew then, regardless of whether my story was a commercial success, I’d achieved something more important, I’d made eleven-year-old me proud.

About the Author

Julie Pike

Growing up on a council estate in Neath, nestled in the Welsh Valleys, Julie developed a love of stories at the town’s fine Victorian library; so much so, she included it in her children’s fantasy-adventure debut, The Last Spell Breather.  

Published by Oxford University Press in 2019, the book was translated into Polish, Indonesian and Russian. It was longlisted for Waterstones Children’s book of the year.

Her second children’s novel, Flame Chasers published in 2024 by Firefly Press was translated into German and was named Children’s Book of the Week in The Times.

Julie has an MA (with distinction) in Creative Writing for Young People from Bath Spa University and gave the valedictorian speech at her graduation ceremony. She lives in the Forest of Dean, on the border between England and Wales, where she adventures under the canopy with her Border Collie, Spock. 

She is passionate about adventure stories, volunteering in schools and libraries, helping children find stories that excite them.

The stories she read as a child inspired her to have real-life adventures as an adult. She has trekked to Everest Base Camp and the peak of Kilimanjaro, tandem skydived over the great lake of New Zealand, and camped on the Great Wall of China in a lightning storm!

Follow Julie:

Purchase Julie’s book, Flame Chasers :

Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback

Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback

As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.

If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring

By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.

Author Interview – Erica Sebree

Author of the fantasy Wild Heart series.

I am very pleased to welcome Erica Sebree to my blog this week, and we’re chatting about her fantasy Wild Heart series.

Helen: Welcome Erica. I am very excited to learn more about your series. I saw your latest book, Wild Heart of the Magic released on May 1st, 2024 and you’re working on book four. Tell us a little about it.

Erica: I’m currently working on the fourth book in the Wild Heart fantasy series. Because it’s a series, I’ll tell you a little about books 1-3. Wild Heart of the Storm is the first in the series, and follows the classic fantasy quest trope. The main character comes into her magic unexpectedly when she brings a dead wolf back to life. Not long after, assassins track her down, and she’s forced to flee with the mysterious town metalsmith. Book one features secret identity, found family, untamed magic, and confronting the past. Book two, Wild Heart of the Crown, dives into court intrigue, ancient secrets, and a desperate attempt to heal a barren landscape. Court members continue their scheming in book three, Wild Heart of the Magic, which grows to include hordes of prospective noblemen. With the alarming truths revealed in book two and the barrenness continuing to spread, hidden objects imbued with dark magic must be found (and destroyed) before it’s too late. Book four, Wild Heart of the Darkness, tackles the fallout of the events at the end of book three, and includes a journey back across the sea.

Helen: I love the colours of your covers. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?

Erica: Wild Heart of the Storm features a vast landscape that represents both the starting and ending points of the main character’s journey. It also features her strongest magical ability, wielding storms.

Wild Heart of the Crown takes place mostly in the capital city, so I wanted to feature a portion of the palace—particularly the glass dome of the throne room—and the magical lights (a reflection of magic in the land) in the night sky.

Wild Heart of the Magic revolves around…magic! The unordained priestesses also become more central in book three, so illustrating the opulent temple from the beginning of the book seemed like the perfect setting.

Helen: I love learning the detail behind the covers. I think titles are sometimes even harder to think up! How did you come up with your titles?

Erica: The title for Wild Heart of the Storm came about in a couple of different ways. When I first started compiling a list of all the keywords that described the book, I kept coming back to “wild heart” and was reminded of the movie I saw when I was a kid, Wild Hearts Can’t be Broken. It’s a story about a woman who performs high-dives into tiny pools…on a horse! How incredible is that? So I knew I wanted to include “wild heart” in the title. More specifically, the title highlights all of the main character’s magical abilities: wild represents her ability to grow and direct plants, heart represents her life-giving power, and storm represents her storm magic. But wait, there’s more! “Wild heart” also represents the main character’s independence, and “heart of the storm” illustrates the final battle in book one. As for the series, I wanted to carry that naming structure through to each book. Wild Heart of the Crown focuses a lot on the main character’s new role as queen, and Wild Heart of the Magic brings the magic of their world to the forefront.

Helen: Writing a series is such fun, beacuse you can really dig into the characters and thier backstories. Who was your favourite character to write?

Erica: Both Hazel and Cadwyn are my favorites! I just love fiercely loyal friends. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a big fan of the love interests too (I read a lot of romance), but the unwavering friendships are where the heart of the story is.

Helen: If your main character could answer this question, why would they say we should read your book?

Erica: She would tell you that strength is always inside you, even when it feels out of reach. She’d tell you to find small moments of joy, and to laugh even when things feel beyond overwhelming. She’d tell you to take care of the people, animals, and land under your protection—though the author argues that self-sacrificing isn’t the only way to do this. And finally, she’d tell you that family can be found anywhere, and those who seem prickly at first might end up being your fiercest allies.

Helen: Lovely answer! Which genre do you prefer to write?

Erica: I love writing fantasy because I have the privilege of creating the world. It’s incredibly freeing. There’s a lot that goes into it—geography, history, government, social structures, magic systems—but it also means I get to create a space that’s more equitable and inclusive. And just like reading fantasy offers an escape from the stresses of our lives and the chaos of the world, writing fantasy does too. I feel like I’m able to correct some of the injustices I’ve experienced or witnessed. It’s far from perfect, but it’s a small way I can take action—even if only for my own peace of mind.

Helen: I love world building as well. I sometimes think the new world is almost another character with its own quirks and foibles. If world building frees you, which element of the writing process do you find most challenging and why?

Erica: I have such a hard time with transitions! I’m a very organized writer, so I know all the plot points and character arcs. I find inspirational images for locations, structures, weapons, clothing…you name it! But when it comes time to flow from one scene to the next, I get stuck. I don’t always feel like a scene break is appropriate, especially if only a short amount of time passes between the two scenes. I also want the transition to contribute something to the story. Even if those couple of lines don’t move the plot forward, I hope they offer a glimpse into the fantasy world or the dynamics between characters.

Helen: Most indie authors work as well write. How do you fit writing into your everyday life?

Erica: I’ve tried a lot of things over the years (while working a full-time job), and I’ve found that writing for about an hour most evenings is ideal. When I attempted to write in the mornings before work, my mind was free from distractions, but my creativity was lacking. By waiting until the evening to write or outline, I find that ideas and words come to me more easily. And with all my tasks completed for the day, my mind doesn’t wander much.

Helen: Do you plan your books, or are you more of a pantser, making it up as you go?

Erica: I’m a bigtime planner! I had over one-hundred pages of outlines and character descriptions before I started writing the first book in this series. My planning technique of choice is the Snowflake Method. It’s about starting small, then expanding. Over and over. For example, you start with one sentence that describes your story, then expand it to two sentences, then a paragraph, then a page, then four pages. By that point in the process, the plot is pretty clear. Next comes the character summaries. Along with their own sub-plots, each character needs a backstory, motivations, goals, conflicts, and an epiphany (or two). Finally, you outline every scene in the book. I use a spreadsheet so I can reorganize as needed. Others might prefer a text document or a program like Scrivener. The thing I love most about this process (aside from all the organization) is that it’s difficult to run into writer’s block with everything planned out so well. I highly recommend it for anyone that prefers planning or needs guidance with building out their characters.

Helen: There are a lot of methods out there, I think it is key to find the one that works for you. Every writer experiences self-doubt. How do you overcome the fear and the little voice in your head to keep writing?

Erica: Before I wrote my very first chapter, I listed all the things that scared me about taking on this huge project. I worried my writing wouldn’t be any good. I worried I wouldn’t finish the book, let alone five. I worried no one would read my books, or if they did, that they wouldn’t like them. That small exercise took away a lot of my anxiety about writing and publishing. When I need a confidence boost, I go back and read that list. Then I remind myself that I did write a book (three so far), that people do actually read them, and most seem to like them!

Helen: What is the most useful piece of writing advice you’ve received, and by whom?

Erica: Owen and Jodi Egerton spoke at a writing conference that I attended several years ago, and they were delightful! I felt so inspired that I immediately bought their book, This Word Now. There’s a lot of wonderful advice in that short book, but the part that really stuck with me was about writing for yourself and no one else. I have to remind myself of that whenever I start thinking about the audience or doubting my work.

Helen: Great advice. I write for the joy of it. I am fortunate that when I decided to self-publish, my books were well recieved. You have to enjoy your writing in the first place. When you encounter writer’s block, what do you do to overcome it?

Erica: Luckily, writer’s block doesn’t happen too much for me (except with those pesky transitions), but when it does creep up, I step away from my computer. Going for a walk is ideal, depending on the time of day. But any mundane tasks—cooking, folding laundry, or watering the plants—really help to reset my creativity. And the adage that great ideas come to you in the shower is one-hundred percent true!

Helen: Thank you so much for joining me today, Erica. It has been great meeting you. Just to finish, what advice would you share with aspiring writers?

Erica: Find what works best for you! When I first started writing, I heard a lot of the write-every-day advice, and that simply didn’t work for me. I had to figure out what my own process looked like, as I think every writer should. If writing is—or becomes—a struggle, try something different. Does writing in the morning or the evening work better for you? How long can you write and still feel like your creativity is flowing—one hour, four hours, 20 minutes? Where do you write best, at home or at a coffee shop? Do you need absolute silence or does music help? Experiment with different methods of writing. If plotting and outlining isn’t working, try stream of consciousness writing. Does your story flow better when you write in a linear fashion or should you jump around to different scenes? And if a particular scene isn’t coming out the way you’d intended, try writing it from a different character’s point-of-view.

About the Author

Erica Sebree

Erica Sebree lives in Austin, Texas, where she works in public service as a graphic designer. She reads too much romance and drinks too much tea—usually at the same time. She makes frequent attempts at gardening, and will happily talk to any animal who crosses her path. She believes lists should be written in colorful ink, and dreams of one day having a farm sanctuary with many adorable cows. When she escapes into fantasy worlds, it’s to places where magic is vital, animals are guardians, and a stubborn bodyguard’s only weakness is the fierce, reluctant heroine he’s sworn to protect.

Follow Erica:

Purchase Erica’s book, Wild Heart of the Storm:

Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback

Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback

As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.

If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring

By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.

Author Interview – Eleanor Dixon

Author of the middle grade series, Tally and the Angel.

I am very pleased to welcome Eleanor Dixon to my blog this week, and we’re chatting about her fourth book in the Tally and the Angel series, The Sands of Time.

Helen: Welcome Eleanor. Congratulations on your new release. I am very excited to learn more about your series. Tell us a little about it.

Eleanor: Tally and the Angel: The Sands of Time is a middle-grade (8 to 13 yrs) adventure that whisks readers to a sun-drenched Greek island where Tally faces her most thrilling quest yet. As the fourth book in the series, this standalone story blends fantasy and everyday life, letting readers explore Greece through Tally’s eyes. Having lived there for twenty years, I’ve infused the book with authentic details, making readers feel like they’re right alongside Tally.

Helen: What a wonderful way to introduce history to young readers. Your cover has a flavour of the mediterranean. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?

Eleanor: The cover of The Sands of Time captures the book’s essence: a churning sea mirroring Tally’s inner turmoil as the mighty Poseidon looms. It’s a visual invitation to join Tally on a high-stakes adventure. I wanted to evoke a sense of wonder and danger, enticing readers to dive into Tally’s world. It’s also great for a summer launch!

Helen: When did you realise you had a passion for writing?

Eleanor: The spark ignited young. School essays were my escape, where my imagination could run wild. I remember crafting stories at five, and by nine, I’d penned a full-length play (though sadly, never performed). My father was a superb storyteller and maybe I got some of those genes. It was many years before that passion turned into writing novels, but I always wrote a daily journal (and still do) and, from age ten, wrote weekly letters to my mother until she passed away when I was in my late thirties. Mum kept and catalogued all my letters and I still have them. They are sometimes a great source of inspiration for plots.

Helen: It’s wonderful to see your series going from strength to strength. They do look great together. Who inspired you to write?

Eleanor: Authors such as Tolkein, C S Lewis, Enid Blyton and J K Rowling all inspired me to write, but the person who kick-started me on my writing career is my best friend Phillipa. We danced, and lived, in Greece at the same time. One day I was telling her about a story I had made up in which I wreaked vengeance on someone who had wronged me. She persuaded me to ‘write it down’ and her encouragement led me to a creative writing course, where I discovered a talent I didn’t know I possessed. However, life and love briefly sidetracked me when I came back to England, and my writing was pushed aside. Eventually, it was my husband who encouraged me to take it up again. And I have never looked back. It was as if he had opened a floodgate. Ideas that had lain dormant for many years tumbled so fast out of my head, I couldn’t keep up. I am so grateful that he saw what was missing in my life and for his unwavering support ever since.

Helen: How do you get the ideas for a new book?

Eleanor: Ideas are like unexpected guests—they burst into my mind uninvited! A single word, a fleeting image, can spark a world. If I am starting a new book with no clear idea, I surf the internet and random phrases seem to ignite something in my brain. The curse that threatens the Yukon village in Tally’s second adventure was born from a trailer for a movie. One word in the movie’s title was the eureka moment for me, but I can’t tell what it was because it would be a huge spoiler! Other times, I lie down in a quiet place, close my eyes and visualise characters and settings until one captures my imagination. I also swim a lot and this is a brilliant time for examining my brain for themes. The time just whizzes by while I’m working out glitches or plot twists.

Helen: Ideas come from all over the place. With so many ideas, what are you working on next?

Eleanor: I’m currently weaving enchantment into the fifth book in the Amberwood Hall Ballet School series, which I write alternately with Tally and the Angel. Blending my ballet background with the supernatural means that Amberwood is not just any ballet school: it has ghosts! The idea for the first book came from an event that happened to me when I was ten years old and was a boarder in a girls’ school at the spookiest old house in the country. The fantasy element, which I love, is a big part of the series and readers don’t need to be ballet fans to enjoy Amberwood any more than one must be a wizard to enjoy Hogwarts.  

Helen: What a wonderful combination, boarding school and ghosts!! With all these ideas flowing, do you find you plan your books upfront, or are you more of a pantser?

Eleanor: I started out as a pantser, but my editor has moulded me into a planner. She insisted she couldn’t work with me unless I write out the storyline, which we then discuss, and then a complete chapter breakdown before I write the actual novel. At first I really struggled! I toyed with the idea of writing the book, then going back and summarising it for her, subsequently wowing her with how quickly I finished it! But I never did that. I soon realised that I write much better for plotting the entire novel in advance. Of course, things change along the way and nine times out of ten, a character turns out to be totally different from the original idea. But having a frame to work to means I work much more efficiently. Plus, I don’t get sleepless nights wondering where it’s all going to end. It’s a wonderful preventative to writers’ block.

Helen: It sounds like you have an excellent editor! Have you ever experienced self-doubt as a writer, and if so, how have you dealt with it?

Eleanor: Self-doubt is a constant companion, but I’ve learned to channel it into motivation. Positive feedback from my editor and readers is a powerful antidote, reminding me of the joy writing brings. I always read the reviews for my books and this can be so uplifting.

Helen: Thank you so much for joining me today. It has been lovely learning about you and your books. Just to close us out, if you didn’t write middle grade what genre would tempt you?

Eleanor: The allure of adult fiction beckons. With a wealth of experiences as a young dancer, I have a world of stories to explore. So, I would like to write an adult novel using some of the events that happened to me. It is something I think about a lot. It would be a daunting task after Middle-grade literature because adult novels are so much longer. I’m used to wrapping everything up in about 40 to 50,000 words. I would enjoy the challenge of finding enough material and complexities of plot to fill 80,000 to 120,00 words.

About the Author

Eleanor Dixon

Eleanor Dixon writes exciting, page-turning, high-stakes books for young people (though many adults enjoy her books too!). Her Tally and the Angel series (recipient of Mom’s Choice and Literary Titan Gold Awards) are travel adventures with each book taking place in a different country. The series takes its inspiration from Eleanor’s extensive global travels. Visit different countries with Tally from the comfort of your seat. And help her and Jophiel, the angel, foil dastardly plots.

Eleanor used to be a ballerina and taught in her own school in Athens, Greece (she speaks Greek fluently!) and is well qualified to write her Amberwood Hall Ballet School series, about a ballet school with a difference: it has ghosts! The first two books have been shortlisted in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards and The Graceful Ghost, the first, has also been shortlisted in the UKSelfies2020 awards. If you want a free taster, download The Ghosts of Amberwood onto your Kindle for nothing! It is the prequel and tells how Grace and Rodney became… the ghosts of Amberwood.

Eleanor adores animals and always has dogs, cats, hens, sheep and an abundance of wildlife at her UK home.

And… she loves birthday cake!

Follow Eleanor:

Purchase Eleanor’s book, Tally and the Angel: The Sands of Time:

Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback

Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback

As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.

If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring

By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.

Author Interview – Christine Priestly

Author of Ella’s Dominion

This week I am chatting to Christine Priestly about her debut novel, Ella’s Dominion, which released on April 1st, 2024.

Helen: Welcome Christine. Congratulations on your new series. I am very excited to learn more about your books. That cover. It’s absolutely gorgeous!! Tell us a little about your book.

Christine: Book One of The Lost Warriors, Ella’s Dominion, is a dark mediaeval fantasy about forbidden magic, dark desires, and a woman’s struggle for power.

Born into a world that hates and fears what she is, Princess Ella of Erldan’s life has never been her own. A mere pawn in her family’s political machinations, she’s forced to hide her magic at the risk of enslavement—or worse. Against a backdrop of political intrigue and heresy, Ella finds herself torn between two brothers—lust for one and love for the other—and must confront the unintended consequences of using her powers to navigate the dangerous world she inhabits, lest she burn for it.

Helen: Your cover is gorgeous. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?

Christine: JV Arts (https://www.justventurearts.com/) did an incredible job representing the story’s iconography with this cover. The sword in the centre holds the Sacred Stone, once the source of magic (represented by blue mist), while the Sun and Moon (opposing religions) struggle for dominion.

Helen: It is always great to understand the author’s thoughts behind the cover design. Is there any special meaning behind the title?

Christine: The book explores various kinds of power, including magical, political, religious, sexual, and interpersonal, and the myriad ways people use, control, and suppress power. Navigating this world, the central character, Ella, born with powerful magic, yet rendered powerless, struggles for dominion over herself and her life.

Helen: What a great theme and plenty of content for you to work with. What made you write this particular book?

Christine: I didn’t intend to explore a particular idea or theme, but one emerged as the characters interacted with each other and their world. I studied mediaeval history at university and became fascinated with the various ways power and religion intersect. The story explores what it might be like to navigate a world where something you are born with and can’t change defies religious rule. The story follows several main characters, navigating power and privilege which sometimes conflicts with their own beliefs (themes very present in today’s world).

Helen: Who is the protagonist in Ella’s Domninon, and why did you write them?

Christine: Ella of Erldan was originally a minor character in a prequel for a book I wrote while in my teens. I became immersed in her story and started the series with her, a generation earlier, instead. She doesn’t follow the ‘chosen one’ archetype or trope of the ‘hero’s journey’ but is born into power and privilege. Yet, her situation renders her powerless, and she must navigate using the tools she has available—with some unintended and tragic consequences. While she starts out quite young and naïve, we see her grow across the series in a very adult world.

Helen: Which character was your favourite to write?

Christine: This is hard to answer. I enjoy writing so many characters. I love writing the villain, Gohran. He’s complex and broken, riddled with self-loathing and internalised hatred, and it’s fascinating to get inside his head, but he’s not someone I would ever want to meet.

 My most likeable character would be Amber, Ella’s magic tutor, and my most fun character is Lynden, who becomes Ella’s friend and confidante. She’s someone I’d love to hang out with.

Helen: Congratulations again on publishing your book, such a great acheivement. When did you realise you had a passion for writing?

Christine: I can’t recall a time when I didn’t. I wrote stories in primary school, loved any class involving reading or writing, and studied writing and literature at university. I’m always immersed in stories.

My parents told me to ‘get a real job’ so I kept my writing as a hobby, with long hiatuses of ‘real life’ in between. Now, in my late 40s, I have found my way back to my passion.

When I reflect on my earlier work, I don’t begrudge the delay, because my writing benefited. My characters are stronger, more complex and fully realised now, and my stories are more mature and believable.

Helen: I agree, I think there is a time to write and a time to publish, and they are not necessarily the same. I started writing very late in life, though I have always been a huge reader. Who inspired you to write?

Christine: We always had books in our house growing up. My grandparents read to us, we read books in school, and I just loved immersing myself in different worlds. My sister and I read stories aloud to fall asleep to, and I remember loving any chance to write something creative in school.

Helen: Having now published your first novel, which part of the writing process did you find most difficult?

Christine: Writing the logistical elements of a story, whether that’s action in a scene, or larger plot elements involving lots of moving parts (in real life, I need to rotate maps to know which direction I’m facing!).

Helen: What are you working on next?

Christine: I’m currently working on Book Two in my debut series, Ella’s Curse. Ella’s Curse explores the consequences of the choices and actions that occurred in Ella’s Dominion.

Ella’s Dominion started relatively slowly, and built up with the sense, as one reader described, of ‘running towards the edge of a cliff’. That tension continues in Ella’s Curse, and shares heartbreaking and darker moments.

While Ella’s Dominion involved a love story, the series is definitely not a romance, so don’t go into it expecting a happy-ever-after!

As in Ella’s Dominion, Ella’s Curse follows multiple third person points of view, so we get to know the characters intimately, through the twists of their tangled webs.

I’m in the editing process now and can’t wait to deliver the final version to my readers!

Helen: So exciting that you have another book in the works! It has been wonderful chatting to you. Thank you so much for joining me today. Just before we finish, what advice do you have for aspiring authors.

Christine: Block out the noise of the ‘shoulds’ and enjoy your journey. Allow the story to evolve, hone your skills, and make the story as strong as it can be. If it connects with readers, and makes them feel invested, you’re doing a great job.

Thank you for having me.

About the Author

Christine Priestly

Christine Priestly is an Australian author with a penchant for sipping tea, cuddling cats, and spinning stories (and poles!) in her spare time. By day, she’s unravelling the mysteries of human desire as a sexologist and hypnotherapist, but by night, she’s weaving tales that will leave you breathless and entertained. Her work has appeared in magazines and anthologies over the years, adding a dash of darkness and a pinch of spice to the literary world. So, grab a cuppa, pet your feline friend, and get ready to dive into Christine’s world of words—it’s one wild ride!

Follow Christine:

Purchase Christine’s book, Ella’s Dominion

Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback

Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback

As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.

If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring

By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.

Author Interview – Michelle M. Pillow

Author of the Merely Mortal series

This week I am chatting to Michelle M. Pillow about her new Merely Mortal series, and the first book, Merely Mortal.

Helen: Welcome Michelle. Congratulations on your new series. I am very excited to learn more about your books. Tell us a little about them.

Michelle: My new release is an urban fantasy, Merely Mortal. It features a young woman, Tamara, a mortal who is born into a supernatural family. Being the odd one out, she’s been raised like a delicate little butterfly who needs to be protected. Everyone expected her to die first, as her natural lifespan is human. The story begins with her attending her family’s funerals. The police suspect her as the one responsible for the fire that killed them, and she’s forced to go on the run. That is when she meets Paul and his five-year-old daughter, who are dealing with their own loss. Things unravel from there.

I am especially excited to share that it marks the beginning of a brand new series and is my first venture into writing in the first person POV. This fresh perspective allows you to dive deeper into Tamara’s world, experiencing her emotions, conflicts, and victories firsthand. It’s been exciting to explore this new writing style, and I believe it adds an intimate layer to the storytelling. I can’t wait for you to join Tamara on her journey and experience the magic and mystery from her unique viewpoint.

Helen: I love the sound of your books, more to add to the TBR list! Your covers are beautiful. What were your thoughts behind the cover design?

Michelle: A big theme in Merely Mortal is Tamara’s transformational arc as she tries to find her place in the world. As a mortal, she’s been told by her supernatural family that she is not special and has an expiration date. The butterfly represents her change and coming into her own. There are also other symbolic meanings in the book, but I don’t want to give away spoilers.

Helen: Is there any special meaning behind the title?

Michelle: The title Merely Mortal reflects Tamara’s struggle with her human limitations while being born into a powerful supernatural family. It underscores her journey of self-discovery and the realization that her humanity is both a vulnerability and a strength. The phrase merely mortal challenges the notion of mortality as a weakness, instead highlighting the resilience and depth of the human spirit.

Helen: A bit of reverse psychology, maybe? What made you write this particular book?

Michelle: The themes of identity, belonging, and self-discovery are universal, and I wanted to explore them through the lens of urban fantasy. I liked amplifying these themes by showing how an ordinary human would navigate a world filled with extraordinary circumstances, and what it means to find one’s place in such a setting.

Helen: I love creating my own worlds, and I agree, fantasy gives you plenty of opportunity for unusual situations. The Merely Mortal series is urban fantasy, do you write in any other genres?

Michelle: I am a multi-genre author. Over my career, I’ve published everything from historical to futuristic, contemporary to fantasy to mystery to gothic. However, I primarily write paranormal and sci-fi romance, as well as urban fantasy. These genres allow me to blend elements of romance, adventure, and the supernatural, creating rich, unique worlds. The flexibility enables me to explore complex themes and characters.

Helen: Who is your protagonist and why did write him/her?

Michelle: Tamara, the protagonist, is a complex and relatable character—just like we all are. I wrote her to explore the theme of self-discovery in a world that constantly challenges her sense of identity. This is something I feel many can relate to. Her journey is one of growth and resilience, reflecting the universal struggle of finding one’s place in the world, especially when you don’t feel like you belong in your own family.

Helen: If Tamara could answer this question, why would she say we should read your book?

Michelle: LOL, she’d probably beg you to read it because she doesn’t want it to be over. She’d probably beg someone to take over for me since I haven’t been the nicest to her.

Helen: We are so mean to our characters!! But we have to keep our readers hooked, so we don’t have much choice. How do you find new ideas for your books?

Michelle: Ideas for new books often come from a mix of personal experiences, random observations, and what if scenarios. Sometimes, a single image or a snippet of conversation can spark an entire story. I also draw inspiration from history, mythology, and various cultures, weaving these elements into my fictional worlds.

Helen: I’m one for the ‘what if’ questions. They do lead you down interesting paths. With all these ideas bubbling, what are you working on next?

Michelle: My current work-in-progress is Mostly Shattered, the second book in the Merely Mortal series. This installment will delve deeper into Tamara’s journey, uncovering new threats and alliances in the supernatural realm. The themes of mortality and belonging will continue to play a central role as Tamara grapples with her evolving identity and the responsibilities that come with it.

Helen: Every writer experiences self-doubt. How do you overcome the fear and the little voice in your head to keep writing?

Michelle: I remind myself of the reasons I started writing in the first place, and I rely on the support of my writing community and family. I also remind myself to take breaks. Burnout can lead to negativity and doubt.

Helen: Have you ever experienced writer’s block, and if so, what do you do to overcome it?

Michelle: Switching gears and working on admin or marketing before returning to the book with fresh eyes helps. Sometimes you just need to step away and let it breathe.

Helen: I find that the most difficult, leaving the book to stand for a while, but you are right, a fresh pair of eyes will make all the difference. What is the best thing that’s happened since you began writing?

Michelle:  The best thing has been the connection with readers. Their support and enthusiasm for my stories are incredibly rewarding. Knowing that my books have touched their lives and provided escape and inspiration is the most fulfilling aspect of my career.

Helen: Most authors are great readers. What is your favourite book?

Michelle: One of my favorites is Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. I love it for its witty dialogue, stubborn characters, and observations of human nature. Also, Mr. Darcy’s first botched proposal. It never fails to make me sigh and laugh at the same time. Austen’s ability to weave romance and strength within the confines of the social norms of her time is something I greatly admire.

Helen: It has been wonderful chatting to you. Thank you so much for joining me today. Before we close was there anything else you’d like to add?

Michelle: The camaraderie and support of the writing and reading communities are invaluable. These are friendships I cherish. I truly believe rising tides can lift all boats.

Thank you for having me.

About the Author

Michelle M. Pillow

Michelle M. Pillow is a prolific NY Times & USA TODAY bestselling author with over a million books sold. Though she writes in many genres, she is best known for romance and mystery. Her rich world building creates portals for the imagination. She is a winner of the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award. Fan favorites include the Qurilixen World (a multi-series collection), Order of Magic series, and Warlocks MacGregor series. She loves to interact with readers. Visit her at MichellePillow.com.

Follow Michelle:

Purchase Michelle’s book, Merely Mortal

Link to book on Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback

Link to book on Amazon US: eBook | Paperback

As an Amazon Associate I may benefit from purchases made using these links.

If you enjoy epic fantasy then check out my award winning Sentinal series, which is now complete. If you like fantasy books with a touch of romance then you will love my SoulMist series, start with SoulBreather. Prefer Dystopian Science Fantasy? Then try Harmony. Start the adventure and stay for the journey.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.

Sign up to my newsletter and download a free copy of Sentinals Stirring

By clicking the sign up button above, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and the newsletter platform provider to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

By signing up to my newsletter, you agree to receive commercial information from Helen Garraway, located at 61 Bridge St, Kingston, Hertfordshire, UK (Data Administrator). You can withdraw your consent at any time. The data will be processed until the consent is withdrawn.