Enter the Lone Wolf

Wil VanLipsig, AKA The Lone Wolf, is the hero in my new sci-fi novel, "Lone Wolf". We interviewed him awhile back and he graciously allowed us to post his replies. (In other words, he didn't threaten to kill us if we did.)

Second Wind: We're here today to talk to Wilhelm VanLipsig captain of the ship the Loup Garou. Wil, what did you do before running freight for the Mining Guild?

Wilhelm VanLipsig: I was a colonel in the Galactic Marine Corps. Then I did contract work.

SW: Where does the handle, The Lone Wolf, come from?

Wil: I got that name serving in the Marines. I like to work alone and I'm ruthless.

SW: Are you the hero of your own story?

Wil: I'm the hero of every story.

SW: What is your problem in the story?

Wil: Some psycho son-of-a-bitch wants me dead and then he wants to take over the universe. The usual.

SW: Can you tell us something else about yourself?

Wil: I'm 86 years old, look like I'm 26 and I've been changed so much by the Marine doctors, I don't think I'm even quite human anymore.

SW: Do you embrace or run from conflict?

Wil: I make love to conflict, then I beat until it surrenders. Incidentally, I don't treat women the same way.

SW: How do you see yourself?

Wil: I am the bringer of death. If you see me coming, you've got 10 seconds to say your prayers.

SW: How do your friends see you?

Wil: I don't really have any friends.

SW: How do your enemies see you?

Wil: I'm the shadow of death, the invisible man. If they see me, I did something terribly wrong.

SW: How does the author see you?

Wil: Dellani thinks I'm dead sexy, smoking hot, seriously jacked, evil and dangerously seductive.

SW: Do you agree with her analysis of you?

Wil: I'm not arguing.

SW: What do you think of yourself?

Wil: I'm the coldest hearted asshole in the galaxy.

SW: Do you have a goal?

Wil: Get the other bastards before they get me.

SW: Do you keep your achievements to yourself?

Wil: Most are classified. The only ones who know what I've done are the others who were there with me. Most of them are dead.

SW: Do you have any special strengths?

Wil: My battle plans have made the textbooks and are required reading at the officer's academy. One general said, "VanLipsig's battle plans are a symphony of destruction with each movement bathed in the blood of the enemy." I have to admit, I'm pretty proud of that.

SW: Do you have any special weaknesses? Other than your obvious modesty?

Wil: Amusing, really. Yeah, I can't carry a tune.

SW: What do you believe?

Wil: I believe in honor and I adhere to it. Not everyone agrees with my code of ethics though.

SW: What do you regret?

Wil: I regret the fact that I wasn't there for the people who needed me.

SW: What, if anything, haunts you?

Wil: The faces of everyone I've ever had to kill.

SW: Has anyone ever betrayed you?

Wil: Yeah. And I killed her for it.

SW: Have you ever failed anyone?

Wil: Pretty much every day, I imagine.

SW: Did anything newsworthy happen on the day you were born?

Wil: According to my old man, hell opened its doors and spit me forth. I hope he's waiting for me when I get there. I'll kick his abusive ass.

SW: Was there ever a defining moment of your life?

Wil: Meeting Matilda. She has made me become the man I wanted to be and couldn't seem to find on my own.

SW: What is your most closely guarded secret?

Wil: If I told you, I'd have to kill you. You look like you think I'm kidding.

SW: Do you have any hobbies?

Wil: Does sex count?

SW: What is your favorite item of clothing? Why?

Wil: I don't really care what I wear but I always have my gun belt, even if I'm naked.

SW: Name five items in your pockets.

Wil: Nothing. Too much stuff slows you down and can identify you when you're dead.

SW: If you were stranded on a desert island, would you rather be stranded with, a man or a woman?

Wil: What the hell good would another man be? A woman with lots of stamina. It would be nice if she was intelligent too, but that's not a requirement.

I Need Help!! I'm Not Above Begging!

This was originally posted on my publisher's site. I really need some feedback. HELP ME HELP ME! ~ Dellani

Some of you have been following my story, “Take a Bite Outta Crime”, for the past few months. I appreciate your comments and support, thank you! When I began posting “Bite”, it wasn’t quite finished, but I had every intention of finishing it before it got this close to the wire. Well, it’s not done yet. Why? I can’t find the perfect ending.

See, I set up this story, laid the groundwork for the characters, gave them a mystery to solve, only I couldn’t ever really decide who the bad guys were or how they were going to solve the crime. That being the case, I’ve got them poised on the verge of discovery—with nothing for them to discover.

Awkward, to say the least. So, here I am at the end of what I’ve got written, but not at the end of the story. For those who haven’t read it all, or who have forgotten, here’s a quick summary.

Previously in “Take a Bite Outta Crime”:

Kirk & Drea own a catering service. Kirk goes to find out where the fish monger, Jay, is, because “Bouillabaisse for 300 doesn’t make itself.” Kirk finds Jay stabbed in his freezer & calls the police.

Drea has a mysterious visitor. This spooks her because she’s afraid their secret has been discovered. (By the way, they’re vampires) Their home is vandalized as is their business.

They finally resort to going to the vampire counsel for assistance, only to find out that many of their friends, also vampires, have disappeared under mysterious circumstances. They decide to pose as models & caterers at the photo shoots so as to infiltrate the modeling agency & track down the villain.

So, where do I go from here? Who’s the villain? Perhaps more than one. Why have the vampires been targeted? For what evil purpose have they been captured, perhaps killed? What did Jay know? Why did he have to die? And why can’t Bouillabaisse for 300 doesn’t make itself?

You see my quandary. I can’t answer any of those questions. If I could, I’d find the perfect ending, finish the story and Bob’s your uncle. But I can’t.

I appeal to you, my fellow writers and readers. Help me find the perfect ending! I have no real incentive for you other than to promise that whatever ideas I borrow to finish the story, I’ll give the contributors a byline at the end. (I’d love to be able to award you fiscally, but that’s not in my current budget.)

Please either post your comments below, or e-mail your ideas todellanioakes@yahoo.com Please be sure to put “Take a Bite Outta Crime” on the subject line. Even if I don’t use your idea, I will mention you by name at the end of the story.

Dellani Oakes is a slightly schizo author whose novel “Indian Summer” is published by Second Wind Publishing. Her second novel, “Lone Wolf” is coming soon, also from Second Wind.

What's Write for Me August 24, 2011 at 1:00 PM Eastern

My next show is Wednesday August 24 at 1:00 PM Eastern on Blog Talk Radio. Guests will be James Edwin Branch & Karen Vaughan. Below are their short bios. Enjoy and join us! ~ Dellani

James Edwin Branch

I'm an old West Texas boy, grew up in Big Spring, Texas. I have three children,and one of them still lives in Big Spring. I now make my home in South Texas. I've written 19 Novels and Novellas and will continue to write as long as there is a story to tell.

I try to write things that young people can read. I'm a strong believer that you don't have to use descriptive sex or off color language to tell a story. I should caution you though that in an action story there is always some violence.
I am an avid musician and a United States Army Vietnam Veteran. I write several different genre and probably always will. My favorite is Action/Adventure or Westerns.

My work was published by another company and is now marketed by VGR. I also can be found at several web sites.

I never wanted to be a great author or counted as one of the really intelligent people of our time. All I've ever strived for is to entertain. I write stories about people who struggle to be who they are. It may sound strange, coming from a fiction author, but I try to make my characters believable.

It is an honor that you're interested in my work. A writer or a musician is nothing without someone to share their creations. Thank you for being that person. You may also find a song or two that I've written on You Tube. Please join me on Facebook with the rest of my author friends.
I enjoy comments and having my readers drop me a line, so when you run across my sites or find me on Facebook, feel free to write me. It might take a day or two to get back to you, but I will.

www.jamesedwinbranch@webs.com

Karen Vaughan lives in Peterborough, Ontario with her husband Jim and a four-legged off-spring(cat) named Sugar. She is the mother of one young adult, four grown-step kids and a grandma to 14 month old grandson.
She is the author of DEAD ON ARRIVAL (The first in the Laura and Gerry series.) and DEAD COMIC STANDING. OVER HER DEAD BODY is the second in her Laura and Gerry series.
Besides writing and reading, Karen enjoys road trips, crafting and online gaming, as well as cooking.

Keeping Organized

Honestly, I'm probably the last person to tell anyone how to organize their writing life. However, I have come up with a few tricks to make it look like I'm more organized than I really am.


Since I'm a project hopper, (I move from one story to another rapidly & at random), I have to keep track of characters, time line, chapters, etc. I keep 3 small notebooks on my desk for this purpose. One has finished projects, the second has unfinished projects & the third has notes & miscellaneous other stuff I need to put my hands on quickly.


For detailed information about  my characters, I have an index card file. On these cards, I list a variety of information. (Example below)
Front


Name:                                                                Parents' Names:
Book:                                                                  
Boyfriend or girlfriend name (or spouse)     Siblings: (If any)
Children: (If any)
Family: This is like cousins, aunts, uncles.   Age:
                                                                            Coloring: (Major importance!)
Actor/ Actress they look like                          Series: (Since I have more than 1, also important)        


Back


Employer/ Job Title
Friends & Co-Workers
Also In: (For any other books they are in. Since I use mains as secondary characters in other books, this is also quite important.)


You'll notice that on the front I have an actor or actress name. This helps me hear a voice, see movement, gauge speech patterns, gestures, etc. Sometimes this will change as a novel progresses, but generally I keep to the same person. 


Everyone will have different bits of information that are important to them, so the contents of the cards can be personalized. I'm simply listing what I consider important. Please let me know if you find this tip helpful and feel free to share your tips here.


copyright 2011 Dellani Oakes

To Buy Dellani's Books

It's Show Time!

Tomorrow is my first August show. Join me for Dellani's Tea Time at 4:00 PM Eastern on Blog Talk Radio. My guests will be Dianna Graveman, Linda Nance and GR Holton. Below are short bios of the authors. Enjoy!

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rrradio/2011/08/08/rfk-dellanis-tea-time

GR Holton

On a warm summer morning in 1962, G. R. Holton was born in a little town in Massachusetts. I am the second eldest in a family of eight children. I am happily married and living in eastern Tennessee. I took an interest in computer games to pass the time, and then one day I made a friend, Marlene Milton, on one of those online games with chat. We became great friends and after a few weeks of talking, I met her husband, Derek Milton online and we hit it off quickly. Derek is a movie director and screenwriter from Canada. He gave me a couple of his screenplays to read and I was hooked. I knew at that point I wanted to try writing. Derek was right there to help me. One night I had a dream of three teens on another planet and in a cave. This was it; I knew what had to be done. I sat down at the computer and over the course of three months, I had written my first book, “Soleri”. I couldn’t stop there, so I continued writing and, “Guardians Alliance” was born. I have also published a children’s picture book called, “Squazles” about not judging others. My latest is, “Deep Screams”, a science fiction/horror thriller that is now available in eBook and paperback at the major online book retailers.

Dianna Graveman

Dianna Graveman is a writer, editor, and educator with a background in training development and graphic design. She teaches Narrative Journalism and Writing for Publications in the MFA program at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri.

Dianna’s portfolio includes includes published works for CBS-St. Louis, AOL, Suburban Journals, St. Anthony Messenger, Teachers of Vision Magazine, Looking Back Magazine, Kansas City Voices, Gold Dust Magazine (UK), You and Me Magazine, Chicken Soup for the Soul, Cup of Comfort, and several other publications and anthologies, as well as co-authorship of four regional histories for Arcadia Publishing's popular "Images of America" series. She has won 19 writing awards, including six from Missouri Writers’ Guild and two from Catholic Press Association of the U.S. and Canada. Dianna is a member and Managing Editor for Missouri Writers’ Guild. She is also a member of St. Louis Writers Guild, Ozark Writers’ League, and Toastmasters International and has several projects in development.

Linda Nance

I am Linda Nance. It has been my dream to be a published author and be to be able to reach out to others. I would like to be able to make a difference. You might say it is my voice. I want to say that we are never too old or too young to make dreams come true if we are willing to work hard and believe. I want each and every person who might get one of my books to have something special that reminds them in their own lives to never give up. Whatever their dreams and wishes are, they can come true.
I love to write, paint,sculpt and many other things. I am a wife, mother, grandmother ( I really like that one) daughter, sister, aunt, neighbor, friend and whatever I have been needed to be. Now I am also a writer and illustrator of my two novels Life Goes On, Journey Home, and the new Children’s Book. I want people to be able to hold the book and look at it and it be more than just another novel. I designed and created the covers and wrote the books from front to back. I wanted to write stories that would be enjoyed and remembered.
It has been a long journey to reach this point as I hold the books in my hands. This is only the beginning. I lived through the cancer surgery and am still writing. I still paint and want to live my life and not just be alive. I want to have a purpose and make a difference. I did not give up. I have only just begun.

Spring Cleaning - It's for the Birds!

I belong to a small writing group which meets once a week. We get a writing prompt every week and (usually) write on that subject. One week, it was spring cleaning. This is what I wrote.

"Effie!" Mama screeched from the back porch.

I'd almost made it. I was halfway over the fence between us and the Mason's when I heard her. Had I been on the other side, I could've claimed I didn't hear her, but she'd see me in a second if she looked.

"Effie Marie!"

"Coming, Mama!" I hollered, pouting. "Dang it, just about got away!" I shuffled my feet as I approached the porch.

"Where you runnin' off to? Today we start spring cleaning."

"Mama, we just cleaned up the house last week."

"But that was just regular cleaning. Now we got to open up the house, freshen the air, beat the rugs, scrub the floors...."

"Why, Mama?"

"Because it's spring. Need to greet the new season with a fresh house."

Pouting and griping, I followed her inside. She handed me an armload of dirty rugs and told me to go beat them clean. I took 'em to the side of the house and whacked 'em against the corner until she fussed at me and took over the process.

"Go mop the kitchen," she ordered.

I got the mop and bucket and marched into the kitchen. I slopped some water around and left big puddles of grubby water on the floor. Mama came back in while I was shoving the pools around and fussed some more.

"Swear to God, Effie Marie, you can't do nothin' right! Give me that mop!"

I handed it over. "Sorry, Mama."

"Go sweep the front porch. Can't tell me you're not able to do that right!"

"Yes, ma'am." I took the broom and went out to the front porch.

There was quite a wind blowing. Every time I got a pile of dirt together, it blew away before I could sweep it up. I went and got Daddy's leaf blower and fired it up, blowing the crap off the porch that way. Mama came out screaming.

"Effie Marie, what're you doing now?"

"Sweeping the porch, Mama. Wind kept blowing it all back around...."

"You're more trouble than you're worth, child. Go on up to your room and stay outta my way! If you want something done right, got to do it yourself!" She griped & grumbled as she finished working.

I went up to my room with a sly smile. I closed the door and lay down on my bed to watch some TV. Yup, there's sure something to be said for incompetence. "If you want something done right....do it wrong so Mama will do it." Boy, do I love spring cleaning!

Sharing Ideas

I was reminded yesterday of how important it is for a writer to have someone to bounce ideas off. My son's girlfriend is an aspiring author. She's smart and creative and I'm sure she'll go far with it. That excites me. I enjoy talking to her, sharing a little advice and getting advice from her as well.

Yesterday, she had the idea for a new story that she wants to write. It's a sci-fi scenario and sounds really cool! If I were a horrible person, I'd steal it and write my own novel, that's how good it is. She started bouncing ideas off my boys (I was napping) and by the time I got up, things were getting interesting. Brainstorming with a bunch of creative people, whether writers or not, can be a lot of fun. However, there's a danger there.

What's the drawback to brainstorming like that? Being overwhelmed with ideas and seeing the direction you'd thought to take change and warp into something else. Each person sees the story going his or her way, not the author's. The more aggressive insist that it must go in a certain direction. Frustrating in the extreme!

When I first started writing my sci-fi series, I asked for my husband's input. He's been an avid
sci-fi fan for many years. Unfortunately, he and I saw the story going diametrically opposed directions. He wanted to play up some of the sub-plots that really didn't need expansion. He got upset with me when I didn't use his ideas, so eventually I quit asking for his input. Though it made things easier in the long run, it also cut me off from a lucrative source of ideas. I liked the repartee the young people engaged in yesterday, and contributed my own perspective. It was fun and, I hope, helpful to her. Having other writers around to discuss stories with is very important. That sort of back and forth exchange is necessary in the creative process.

Authors are, by nature of their career, somewhat solitary individuals. Even in a group of "regular people", the author is watching, listening, categorizing and cataloging the others, filing them away for future use. However, get a group of authors together and you generally can't get them to shut up. They talk about their characters like they are real and discuss subjects, often in public, that would shock and appall "regular people".

For example, the NaNoWriMo group I attend was discussing killing Cliff Brooks. This is one of the challenges presented by the NaNo boards and several of us like to take the challenge every year. Each of us had a particularly grisly, horrific end planned and we discussed it loudly and excitedly in the Panera dining area as we sipped coffee and ate cinnamon rolls. Other patrons actually got up and moved. I guess they thought were were either crazy, demented or serial killers. (Or a combination of the three) It was funny, at least to me.

One reason I love doing my radio shows so much is that I have the opportunity to talk to authors from all over the world. Regardless of our background, genre or country of origin, or writing style, we all have one thing in common--We look at life from a unique perspective. It's that outlook that sets us apart, making us who we are.

To Buy Dellani's Books

Candid Chat with Michelle Izmaylov

As many of you know, Michelle and her sister Nicole, were supposed to be on my show July 11th. Through the quirks of Blog Talk Radio, they were unable to get on the call. I asked them both to answer what would have been my interview questions. I am trying to get them scheduled for another time and will post the date and time when it's been settled. Meanwhile, enjoy the interview! ~ D

Dellani Oakes: Michelle, you have an incredible list of accomplishments. Why don't you share that with our listeners?

Michelle Izmaylov: I’d say “incredible” might be a bit of a strong word since I feel I still have a long way to go before I’m really “accomplished.” What I’ve done so far is published three books, two of which were traditionally published, and now I’m an editor at FutureWord Publishing and an illustrator at World Castle Publications.

DO: I have to ask, out of my own curiosity, which of you is older?

MI: I’m older in terms of age, but my sister is older in terms of brains.

DO: With such an impressive list of accomplishments and awards, I'm sure our readers are wondering how you got started writing so young?

MI: I’ve been writing (and doodling) ever since I could hold a pencil. And I’m serious. My first stories were kept locked up in my head because, back then, I didn’t know how to write . . . but the minute I learned my first language (which was Russian), I started to turn my thoughts into words. It’s something I’ve kept at ever since.

DO: What inspires you?

MI: It’s not “what” so much as “who” inspires me . . . and that’s practically every person in my life. For example, my sister is a huge source of inspiration and encouragement. Whenever I’m stuck on a writer’s block, some quirky comment she makes always sparks fresh thoughts. But I also think love is the soul of genius . . . and I think I’ll leave it at that.

DO: How do you work? Do you know the story before you begin writing, or do you let the story develop?

MI: Before I’ve written one word of my story, I come up with characters. After all, the “plots” of our real lives aren’t set out for us in advance. It’s how we face the problems we encounter in life that determines how our lives develop. In my books, I aim for the same approach. I create characters who work their way through ten major scenes I plan around their personalities, but all the space in between those scenes is filled with the results of the characters’ actions. Sometimes the nature of those major scenes will change based on my characters’ decisions in earlier scenes. And so basically, I only have a fuzzy idea of what the story is going to be before I start writing. My characters write the story for me.

DO: What gave you the idea for your first book?

MI: Watching a whole lot of TV and playing a ton of video games sparked my imagination . . . but getting the idea was the easy part. Then came all the work of actually writing!


DO: What is your writing process? Do you write start to finish? In episodes?

MI: I write according to my emotions, and I think that’s part of the reason my more recent (and better) books have taken longer to write. I won’t write a tragic scene in my book unless I’m feeling the pain of loss. I won’t work on a part that involves romance unless I’ve recently had such an encounter myself. So I actually do find myself writing in episodes and then filling in the more neutral details at a later point.

DO: If I remember correctly, you are an illustrator as well. Do you do your own illustrations? Do you ever do illustrations for others?

MI: I’m actually an illustrator at World Castle Publications, and the first picture book I ever illustrated for another author (aside from my sister) is coming out really soon. It’s called “Squazles” and was written by Bob Holton. Also, and don’t laugh when I say this, but I’m thinking about maybe becoming a syndicated cartoonist one day if I get good enough at comics. I’m going to be starting a webcomic series shortly. I mean, there’s just too much crazy stuff that happens in my life for me not to draw about it.

DO: Do you see writing as your future career?

MI: Yes and no. I see writing as something I do out of passion more than as a career path. My main career goal is to become a pediatric cardiologist, but there is actually an entire category of people called “physician writers” who are medical doctors who write creatively in addition to practicing medicine. So that’s one possibility I might pursue.

DO: Do you find yourself talking to your characters? What might a typical conversation be about?

MI: Okay, here’s a question for you . . . are there writers who don’t talk to their characters? My characters are really the ones dictating the story to me . . . and I just write down their thoughts.

DO: Do you purposely use symbolism in your stories?

MI: I do use symbolism, but usually it’s my inner symbolist getting the better of me and slipping in these things when I’m not paying attention. Sometimes, though, I do include certain symbols on purpose when those representations have special meaning to me.

DO: Do you consciously pick a theme before you begin writing?

MI: Usually not. I actually surprise myself sometimes by reading back over my work after I’ve finished to see the themes emerging—so many themes appear that I didn’t even mean to incorporate. And then I emphasize the themes I find during the revision phase of my editing.

DO: What age group are your stories written for?

MI: Depends on which story we’re talking about. My more recent work has focused on teens and is even edging closer to the adult level . . . and I think that reflects my own changing perspectives on my life. The older I grow, the more I understand about the world and the more serious my writing becomes. That’s also become more true as I learn more about science (since I’m a chemistry and biology double major at Emory).

DO: What are your current projects?

MI: I’m in the initial editing stages of my most recent manuscript, which is sitting at around 150,000 words at the moment . . . a bit too much, I’d say. Without giving away too much, this latest book chronicles the story of a teen growing up in a post-apocalyptic world—that and the car racer with whom (she thinks) she falls in love. At the same time, I’m also co-authoring a book with my sister.

DO: What is your latest release?

MI: That would actually be a book I illustrated called "Dart and the Squirrels". My sister’s the author, and she can tell you a whole bunch more about that story.

DO: Where can your books be purchased?

MI: Most anyplace (like Barnes and Noble and on Amazon).

Wit and Whimsy on Gather

I've started a new group on Gather and hope my friends & fans will join me there. I encourage all authors, writers and readers to hop over and say hello. I will be posting discussions, though I hope members will also do so. I also want members to post random thoughts, excerpts of works in progress and so on.

Please join me on Wit and Whimsy! http://witandwhimsy.gather.com/

A Glimpse at Stephanie Osborn

Here to tell us a little about herself is the amazingly talented Stephanie Osborn. Stephanie was recently a guest on my Blog Talk Radio show, What's Write for Me on June 22. (Link below)

Stephanie Osborn is a former payload flight controller, a veteran of

over twenty years of working in the civilian space program, as well as
various military space defense programs. She has worked on numerous
Space Shuttle flights and the International Space Station, and counts the
training of astronauts on her resumé. Of those astronauts she trained,
one was Kalpana Chawla, a member of the crew lost in the Columbia
disaster.

She holds graduate and undergraduate degrees in four sciences:
Astronomy, Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, and she is “fluent” in
several more, including Geology and Anatomy. She obtained her various
degrees from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN and
Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN.

Stephanie is currently retired from space work. She now happily
“passes it forward, ” teaching math and science via numerous media
including radio, podcasting, and public speaking, as well as working with SIGMA,
the science fiction think tank, while writing science fiction mysteries
based on her knowledge, experience, and travels.

Here's the link to my show:http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rrradio/2011/06/22/rrw--whats-write-for-me

"The Santa Shop" by Tim Greaton – an unexpected breath of fresh air

Recently, I was asked to read and review The Santa Shop by Tim Greaton. Below is my review of this delightful book.

Skip is homeless. He's been living on the street long enough to know his way around. After the accidental death of his wife and son, for which he holds himself responsible, he loses his job, his home and his self-esteem. Desperately contemplating suicide, he meets Father Johnston and his life begins to change.

We walk through Skip's day, learning about his life. Neither asking for sympathy, nor denying his fall from grace, Skip reminds us we're all worthy of a little respect. Although he's fallen about as low as he can go, he maintains what small dignity he has, refusing a handout, especially when it's accompanied by a lecture.

Although set at Christmastime, "The Santa Shop" is a book that readers can enjoy at any time of the year. It's appropriate for young teens to adult readers. I read part of it aloud to my teenage son and he's decided to read the book—clear evidence that "The Santa Shop" bridges generations.

Greaton treats the character of Skip with unusual insight and tenderness. He lovingly portrays the other characters as well, showing the compassion they have for their fellow man.

I greatly enjoyed "The Santa Shop" and look forward to reading more books by Tim Greaton in the future.

Meet Matthew Munson!

I met Matthew very recently in one of the Facebook groups. After looking at his site, I asked him to do a blog interview for me. I was delighted when he agreed.

When did you start writing?

I was comparatively young - ten or so. During my teenage years, I wrote quite a bit of sci-fi stuff, mostly around Star Trek (yes, I was ... still am ... a geek!), and am just grateful that none of my work from that period can be found!


What gave you the idea for your first book?

Have you ever heard of the TV series Spooks? It's about MI5, the British Security Service, and it's still on now - and it's an awesome show. That inspired me to write "Treachery and Lies", a book based on MI5. It's still languishing in production hell as it's only really a first draft and needs a hell of a lot of work to make it suitable. I'll get round to it one day.


What genre do you write?

Well, I'm partial to a good thriller, as you've probably guessed from my previous answer! However, I do like a bit of fantasy, although mostly combined with "real world" activities - I haven't developed the broad themes to create an entire fantastical world. Yet!


What do you do to keep yourself focused?

Check my bank balance on a regular basis! I can't afford to give up work entirely, but as I get odds and ends in and see my savings slowly - too slowly - go up, it reminds me of the end goal; a career as a full-time writer.

Do you stay with one project or do you work on multiple projects?

Multiple! For instance, I just finished my latest manucript this morning, but had already started jotting down notes for a sequel, got two blog posts written up and writing my column for a newspaper. I find it easier to flit between projects - and I love the sound of deadlines as they go whooshing past (thanks, Douglas Adams!).


What is your writing process?

I just knuckle down and get it done. I must confess, I don't hold much truck with people who claim they never have any time to write; you MAKE time! I hold down a full-time job and am studying sign language, but I still write every day; it may only be 500 words, but I write. You just have to manage your expectations, park your bum on the seat and WRITE!


What is the theme of your novel?

The one I've just finished? Well, it's called "Fall From Grace," and that empitomises it for me; an angel's fall from grace and a human's similar journey - and how they recover from that.


Do you consciously use symbolism in your book?

Not a huge amount; I research my books really heavily, and that research often gives me clues as to where to go. Of course, depending on your beliefs, Fall From Grace could be one long symbol, drawing as it does a couple of references to the bible!


What is your latest release?

Fall From Grace! It's being published by Inspired Qill (www.inspired-quill.com ) in the Autumn; Sara and her team are phenomenal, they're working on it so passionately that I'm confident in leaving it with them to prepare.


What other books do you have published?

It's still early days; I've had a short story published by Phil Hill Press and a few pieces published in fiction magazines.


Where are your books available?

Ask me that again in three months when Fall From Grace comes out - check out my website (www.writeordie.co.uk) for regular updates.

Red River Writers Live & Robin Falls Kids Schedule

Monday:

1. Tony Angelo – The Dreams of Our Children – Every other month

   Peggy Grenne – Chirp with Peggy – 6 times a year

2. Dellani Oakes – Dellani's Tea Time 4:00 PM Eastern

3. Virginia S. Grenier – Stories for Children

Barbara Hodges – Let's Talk

4. Dr. Thomas A Gavin

   Wade Zahares, Rose Cooper, Carolyn Watson Dubisch

Marsha Casper Cook – A Good Story is a Good Story – 8:00 PM Eastern – Every week.

5. Lakisha Spletzer – Tell Me a Story

Tuesday:

Every Tuesday – Peter J. Dawson – Speak Out America Now, a current events show

Wednesday:

1. Mike Marcellino – Notebookwriter – 8:00 PM Eastern

2. Men Read – Lt. Col. Karl Lenker, George Scott – 8:00 PM Eastern

3. Fran Lewis – Book Discussion – 1:00 PM Eastern

4. Dellani Oakes – What's Write for Me – 1:00 PM Eastern

5. Anne-Louise Sterry – Art of Storytelling

Thursday:

1. Debra Simpson – Savvy Designs – 1:00 PM Eastern

   Shani Fenderson – The Christian Cafe – every other month

2. Barbara Hodges – No Limits

3. Linda Kozar, Sharon Leaf, Kelly Boyer Sagert – Gate Beautiful – Every other month

4. Barbara Ehrentreau – Tales from the Pages – 4:00 PM Eastern

5. John T. Willis – Black History is American History

Friday:

1. Michelle Debenport & Jo Brielyn – Will Blog For Kids

2. Suzanne Alicie, Amy Browne, Rose Kitchen – Freelance Connection

   R. Jeffreys – The Write Step – every other month

3. Meg Collins & Nancy Denofeo – Page Turners

4. Melea Brock – Story Tellers – 4 times a year

5. MJ Gillot – Fine Lines – every month with five Fridays

Specials:

1. Kimberly Moore & Dara DiGiovanni – Romance Connection 4 times a year

2. MJ Goodnow & April Robins – 15 Minutes with Robins and Goodnow

Getting to Know Sue O'Shields!

Sue is a wonderful author, though she's not yet published her novels. I'm thrilled and honored that she agreed to participate in her very first interview! ~ Dellani

When did you start writing?

Well, when it comes to story-telling, I think I became interested in writing when I got such positive response to a story I wrote in First Grade. Positive for me, anyway; it created a lot of laughter, and people were paying attention to me. The story went: "This summer for summer vacaton we went to Wiscon. Then we came home. My dog ran away and got hit by a car. The End." Everyone thought it was uproarious. Go figure.

By the way, the dog was fine. He got tapped by the car and in turn tried to bite it.

What gave you the idea for your first book?

Gee, do I want to answer this? Okay, okay, it was fan fiction about my favorite rock star. Back when I was thirteen, ALL the girls were writing about how they would meet Rod Stewart or the Bay City Roller of choice, so I wrote about how George Harrison and I would meet, fall in love and get married. By then, Beatlemania was far out of fashion, and most of my peers at my new school never heard of John, Paul, George and Ringo. It was somewhat awkward until I met another Beatles fan who was somewhat cooler than me. We formed a friendship which led to other friendships and all these people wanted to read what I wrote. Talk about positive reinforcement!

Oh! Were you talking 'as a professional'? My personal hero is Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain and I love Civil War history.

What genre do you write?

Well, for years I wrote fan fiction! haha! Currently? Paranormal romance. Before that, I wrote an American Civil War epic romance called Destiny of Honor that I'm trying to split into two books because it's a whopping 226,000 words. As an aside, I must say that it's a strange thing to have one of your beta readers say to you, after reading the even bigger version (237K), "I was so sad to see the book end! I wanted to know what happened to Chamby and Ophelia and Jacob and..." I'm thinking "Ooo! Sequel!"

What do you do to keep yourself focused?

Oooh! A kitty!... I'm sorry...what?

Do you stay with one project or do you work on multiple projects?

I used to be single project fixated. Right now I have several going: the Civil War epic that needs work, the straight-forward paranormal The High Bridge manuscript, and my work in progress called "Grave Message", a paranormal romance/women's issues (involving Postpartum Depression and how it affects a marriage). I'm most definitely floundering with all of these. I think I need to go back to single project fixation, pick one of the above and then move on it.

What is your writing process?

Well...I drink lots of coffee to start... Seriously, I'm a combination of color-coded index cards and seat-of-the-pants-grab-that-muse-before-he-gets-away-dammit kind of writer. It's a controlled chaos, if such a thing exists. I start out so absorbed with keeping things orderly, I've been known to match my colored paperclips to the color of my index cards (blue for scene info, yellow of interesting dialogue, red for conflict building ideas, green for character's info). Once I get to writing, I'm a Pantser, occasionally going back to the cards when I need a jolt of inspiration. My Muse is a drunken lush and those cards are Mead for the Muse, so back he staggers.

What is the theme of your novel?

The theme of the Civil War novel is how terrible injustice inspires change, growth of personal nobility and ultimately great love. The theme of The High Bridge is how terrible injustice inspires change, growth of personal nobil--- hey!

Do you consciously use symbolism in your book?

Yes, especially in "Destiny of Honor." The Victorians LOVED symbolism and I use that. In "The High Bridge," white wild doves figure prominently in a "Oh, thank God they're free!" moment. I also tend to put a few "inside jokes" and "if you knew me, you'd know what that means" situations. For example, in "High Bridge", my female main character is at a Bed & Breakfast in the town of Thomas, which is loosely based on the real Colorado town of Fraser. I grew up in Chicago, and anyone who grew up in Chicago will know of a grandfatherly television personality from the 60's and 70's named Fraser Thomas. Also, my character Sandra is having breakfast with some of the guests, two of whom are a motorcycling couple who are trying to ride as close to the Continental Divide as possible as a wedding anniversary trip. Well, my husband and I spend our wedding anniversaries on motorcycle road trips, staying in B&B's along the way.

What is your latest release?

I’m working on that, actually… Know any good publishers?

What other books do you have published?

Er… some of my caving trip reports are in the Library of Congress. Does that count?

Where are your books available?

Review two questions up, please.

Wednesday's Show

Due to the fact I had surgery last Monday, I've decided NOT to have my show on Wednesday May 25th. I thought I could handle it, but I'm still very tired & run down. Also, my other half is putting his medical foot down. My guests WILL BE on another show and I will keep you updated. ~ Dellani

Chatting with Barbara Ehrentreu

Barbara is an amazing lady who keeps an even busier schedule than I do. She took time out to answer some questions for me to share with all of you. Please welcome Barbra Ehrentreu!

When did you start writing?

My first published poem was when I was in third grade. Then after college I started writing poetry and when I was teaching in Buffalo another poem of mine was published in the Buffalo Schools Bulletin. It wasn’t until I enrolled in a graduate program at Manhattanville that I took my first writing workshop and started to write seriously. I attended Manhattanville’s Writer’s Week and when my memoir was picked by my group and I read it to the entire audience several authors came to me and praised it. That was when I decided I was a writer, because I felt so comfortable with all of the authors. The following summer I joined a children’s writing workshop during Writer’s Week and began my first novel now being published.

What gave you the idea for your first book?

I enrolled in a children’s writing workshop headed by Paula Danziger and she required us all to write an excerpt to get into the workshop. When Paula saw it she thought it had some merit and she worked with me to revise it. Paula was a big support to me and her inspiration spurred me to finish my novel. I am sad she never got to see it finished.

The idea came from my own daughter’s trials with feelings about her body and a short experience with bulimia. I wanted to write something that would show the feelings of both situations and I was tired of reading YA’s with dead parents and rapes, etc.

What genre do you write?

Actually, I let the story decide for me. So I have written in several genres. My very first novel, which I also tried to publish, was an MG fantasy with talking animals. My most recent novel for last year’s NaNo was a romance/suspense/adventure. I have a story published on Moondance.org that is about an older woman with angst. I also have a picture book for ages 3-6 I am thinking of getting published. As I said, it all depends on the story.

What do you do to keep yourself focused?

When I am in the middle of writing something I can be focused anywhere. This is especially true when I’m writing poetry. However, when I’m starting to write I like to have the place to myself. As an editor, I can edit anywhere, but I prefer to do it alone. The TV usually doesn’t bother me.

What inspires you?

My inspiration is my family. Their experiences have pushed me to write. My first novel was inspired by my daughter. My second novel’s inspiration was my husband’s heart attack and by pass surgery. My other books have parts of my family in them.
Also beauty in nature, political events, my own crazy life are inspirations for poetry.

Do you stay with one project or do you work on multiple projects?

It depends on the project. When I got blocked on my first novel I wrote my stories and both were published. I was quick with my novel’s edits and when I’m editing something I like to concentrate on it and finish it. Unfortunately, with life today, things pile up so occasionally I’m working on two things at once. I think it depends on the length of the piece and how much time I have to do it.

What is your writing process?

I’m a pantser. When I get an idea I write the first sentence and then continue either until the piece is finished, for a short story or usually until I get 2000 words. I don’t consciously strive for that amount, but that is where I usually stop. When I’m writing a novel I’ll start writing the story and then go back and flesh out the characters. I think it’s very important to know what each of your characters wants. When I was very blocked, because I didn’t have an ending for my novel, I went to a Children’s Writers Bootcamp and it helped very much.

What is the theme of your novel?

Carolyn Samuels’ freshman year becomes a series of lies to cover Jennifer Taylor’s terrible secret in return for popularity.

Do you consciously use symbolism in your book? No.

What is your latest release?
If I Could Be Like Jennifer Taylor

What other books do you have published?

This is my first published book. I have two stories published online:
“The Trouble with Follow the Leader” and “Out on a Ledge”.

Where are your books available?

My novel will not be available until September. However, you can find out more about it and me here:

http://museituppublishing.com/musepub/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=155&Itemid=82

My May Shows

I’ve got a show today at 4:00 PM Eastern that I meant to announce earlier and forgot. My guests will be Dr. Barbara Becker-Holstein, Christine Fonseca, Deon Davis and (possibly) Anna Fowler–provided her weather & internet cooperate. Please listen in! http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rrradio/2011/05/09/rfk–dellanis-tea-time

My second show in May is slated for Wednesday, May 25th at 1:00 PM Eastern. My guests will be Michael Murphy, Dara England, Sue O’Shields & Anna K. Edwards. Be sure to tune in! http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rrradio/2011/05/25/rrw–whats-write-for-me

Speaking of Fran Lewis....

Fran Lewis is an amazingly talented, creative, inspiring and thought provoking author. She's also one of the busiest people I know. She writes books & articles, reads constantly, writes book reviews, hosts shows on Blog Talk Radio and still has time to answer questions for my interview. I'm greatly honored and blessed to have such a wonderful friend.

When did you start writing?

I started writing when I was about 4. I do not remember a time when I was not writing stories, poems or passing notes to my sister under the blanket at night. My mom would say lights out but never knew we had flashlights under our blankets and note pads so that we could send each other messages whenever we wanted. Writing short stories, poems for cards and longer stories was always something that I loved doing. Writing my first children’s book was my Aunt Tova’s idea. She made me promise her before she passed away that I would do something with my writing skills other than write lesson plans and help some of the teachers in my schools with their observation lessons. She encouraged me to write short stories, articles and post them on writing.com which I did and then my first book. Little did I ever know that I would be writing book reviews, online interviews, blogs, endorsements, intros to books and much more.

What gave you the idea for your first book?

My nephew Jake was laughing at the way I was sitting in a restaurant. I was pouting because I had just started my diet. My sister looked at me and said that I reminded her of my grandma Bertha who sat the same way. I told her she reminded me of my spoiled Aunt Tillie. My nephew Jake cracked up and just started to chant: You are Bertha and she is Tillie and that would be great as the characters in a book. Thinking about some of the wild things my sister and I did as kids I decided to write my first book which were 6 short stories. Each story is another real life and true adventure that my sister and I had growing up.


What genre do you write?: children’s books, non-fiction/self-help And hopefully a murder/mystery

What do you do to keep yourself focused?

My sense of responsibility to the promises that I make to myself and others. When I promise an author to complete a review I tend to make sure it is done way before they expect it. My mom would always make sure that homework was done the very minute we walked through the door even on Fridays. I enjoy reviewing books, and working with authors and I think since I have had so much sadness in my life working and helping others keeps me focused and centered and allows me to put the sadness aside.

What inspires you?

It is not what but who that inspires me. My sister was my biggest fan and she kept me motivated, on task and was always there to present and give her constructive criticism to my stories, reviews and more. I really miss her. She really thought that what I am doing was great and enjoyed being part of it especially at signings, readings and other events.

Do you stay with one project or do you work on multiple projects? I can focus on at least three or four projects at once.

What is your writing process?

I never really think about a process I just write. What comes to mind and what I feel like writing about is what comes out on my computer. One day it could be a review the next a short story. I tend to write down all of the my projects on a notepad and prioritize them and go from there.

What is the theme of your novel?

If and when I decide to write one it will be a murder based on a true story.

What is your latest release?

Because We Care: Coming out this month

What other books do you have published?
My Name is Bertha
Bertha Speaks Out
Bertha Fights Back
Memories are Precious
Sharp As A Tack or Scrambled Eggs Which Describes Your Brain?

Where are your books available?
http://productsearch.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?WRD=fran+lewis&page=index&prod=univ&choice=allproduc

http://www.amazon.com/Bertha-Speaks-Out-Fran-Lewis/dp/1436328047/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1302191732&sr=1-4

http://www.amazon.com/Bertha-Fights-Back-Fran-Lewis/dp/1441538321/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1302191765&sr=1-7

http://www.amazon.com/Sharp-Tack-Scrambled-Eggs-Describes/dp/1450087620/ref=sr_1_8?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=130

http://www.amazon.com/Memories-are-Precious-Alzheimers-Journey/dp/144158479X/ref=sr_1_11?s=books&ie=UTF8&qi

http://www.amazon.com/My-Name-Bertha-Fran-Lewis/dp/1425795536/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1302191721&sr=8-1

"Erie Canal Cousins" and author Dorothy Stacy

Those who've listened to my show have heard this amazing woman live. Dorothy Stacy has been on my show several times, and I'd have her on every month if I could. Her books are as amazing as she is. I was pleased and honored that she agreed to a blog interview.

When did you start writing?

I started writing when I was 8 years old. I wrote little stories in a 10 cent notepad called, “The Adventures of Rosemary” Each chapter was 3 pages long and the stories were based on what I was doing at the time. If I went to my grandmother's for a visit, Rosemary went to her grandmother's. Then in grade school, a friend and I sat in the double desks we had in our school, in the back seat since we were so well behaved and we wrote soap operas during class. Then after each chapter we put the notebooks on the seat between us and read each others stories. We had 59 kids in the class and, by the way, we never got caught. I have been writing off and on all my life.

What gave you the idea for your first book?

I took my first grade class on a field trip to the Erie Canal Village in Rome, New York, watched a movie on how the Canal was built, and immediately wanted to write a story about a girl traveling down it in 1840. I was so impressed by the way the canal came about that I wanted to spread the word to children in a fun and interesting way so that they might become interested in history the way I am.

What genre do you write?

I write historical fiction for young teens to adults.

What do you do to keep yourself focused?

I try to set a schedule for writing… 2 months for research, maybe a chapter a week when I am ready to begin the book.

What inspires you?

Do you mean to write? I just love to write, play around with words, and express myself that way. If you mean in general…history, the lives of great people, books I’ve read and people.

Do you stay with one project or do you work on multiple projects?

I stay with one project, trying to get one book published a year.

What is your writing process?

I spread it out over a year. As I said before, I spend about 2 months for research, 2 months to write the book, 1 month for illustrations, another month for revising and editing, 2 months for the printing, and a couple of months for book signings and then I get some time off for relaxing. HOWEVER, in between all this I do Author Visits to schools, historical societies, libraries, or anyone that wants me.

What is the theme of your novel?

The theme of my novels is that you can overcome your fears by doing the thing you fear and the more you do it the less afraid you will be.

Do you consciously use symbolism in your book?

I do because it is a good way to help someone picture what I mean. But not too much of it as my books are mainly for children.

What is your latest release?

My latest release is, Canal Town Christmas, which is Book 4 in my Erie Canal Cousins Series.

What other books do you have published?

The other books I have published in the Series are: Erie Canal Cousins, Three Weeks in Utica-Book 2, and Albany Homecoming-Book 3. They all take place in New York State and the Erie Canal in 1840.

Where are your books available?

My books are available at Barnes and Noble, from my distributor (North Country Books), or from me at my website: www.dorothystacy.com

Interview with Fran Lewis

Fran Lewis is another of the Red River Writers Live hosts and will be on my show, Wednesday, April 27th at 1:00 PM (Eastern). Fran is an amazing and fascinating lady. Take a few minutes to get to know her better.

Interview Questions for Blog

When did you start writing?
I started writing when I was about 4. I do not remember a time when I was not writing stories, poems or passing notes to my sister under the blanket at night. My mom would say lights out but never knew we had flashlights under our blankets and note pads so that we could send each other messages whenever we wanted. Writing short stories, poems for cards and longer stories was always something that I loved doing. Writing my first children’s book was my Aunt Tova’s idea. She made me promise her before she passed away that I would do something with my writing skills other than write lesson plans and help some of the teachers in my schools with their observation lessons. She encouraged me to write short stories, articles and post them on writing.com which I did and then my first book. Little did I ever know that I would be writing book reviews, online interviews, blogs, endorsements, intros to books and much more.

What gave you the idea for your first book?
My nephew Jake was laughing at the way I was sitting in a restaurant. I was pouting because I had just started my diet. My sister looked at me and said that I reminded her of my grandma Bertha who sat the same way. I told her she reminded me of my spoiled Aunt Tillie. My nephew Jake cracked up and just started to chant: You are Bertha and she is Tillie and that would be great as the characters in a book. Thinking about some of the wild things my sister and I did as kids I decided to write my first book which were 6 short stories. Each story is another real life and true adventure that my sister and I had growing up.


What genre do you write?: children’s books, non-fiction/self-help
And hopefully a murder/mystery

What do you do to keep yourself focused?
My sense of responsibility to the promises that I make to myself and others. When I promise an author to complete a review I tend to make sure it is done way before they expect it. My mom would always make sure that homework was done the very minute we walked through the door even on Fridays. I enjoy reviewing books, and working with authors and I think since I have had so much sadness in my life working and helping others keeps me focused and centered and allows me to put the sadness aside.

What inspires you?
It is not what but who that inspires me. My sister was my biggest fan and she kept me motivated, on task and was always there to present and give her constructive criticism to my stories, reviews and more. I really miss her. She really thought that what I am doing was great and enjoyed being part of it especially at signings, readings and other events.

Do you stay with one project or do you work on multiple projects?
I can focus on at least three or four projects at once.

What is your writing process?
I never really think about a process I just write. What comes to mind and what I feel like writing about is what comes out on my computer. One day it could be a review the next a short story. I tend to write down all of the my projects on a notepad and prioritize them and go from there.

What is the theme of your novel?
If and when I decide to write one it will be a murder based on a true story.
Do you consciously use symbolism in your book? N/A
What is your latest release?
Because We Care: Coming out this month

What other books do you have published?
My Name is Bertha
Bertha Speaks Out
Bertha Fights Back
Memories are Precious
Sharp As A Tack or Scrambled Eggs Which Describes Your Brain?

Where are your books available?
http://productsearch.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?WRD=fran+lewis&page=index&prod=univ&choice=allproduc

http://www.amazon.com/Bertha-Speaks-Out-Fran-Lewis/dp/1436328047/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1302191732&sr=1-4

http://www.amazon.com/Bertha-Fights-Back-Fran-Lewis/dp/1441538321/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1302191765&sr=1-7

http://www.amazon.com/Sharp-Tack-Scrambled-Eggs-Describes/dp/1450087620/ref=sr_1_8?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=130

http://www.amazon.com/Memories-are-Precious-Alzheimers-Journey/dp/144158479X/ref=sr_1_11?s=books&ie=UTF8&qi

http://www.amazon.com/My-Name-Bertha-Fran-Lewis/dp/1425795536/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1302191721&sr=8-1