Interview With Author JD Estrada

Today I have an extra special treat for you with the ever delightful and multi-talented author JD Estrada. He chats about, books, writing, and inspirations, plus his upcoming release, the middle-grade fantasy novel, Given to Fly. Enjoy!

Interview With JD Estrada

Why don’t you begin by sharing a little about yourself.

Hi there, lovely readers of our dear Madam Stewart. My name is JD Estrada and I’m an indie author from Puerto Rico although I currently reside in Atlanta, Georgia. I say reside because home shall always be in the Caribbean and with how fun it’s been to enjoy 30-degree weather, TRUST me I’m reminded how much of an Island boy I am.

Apart from that, I’m a multi-genre author who enjoys a good challenge in life and in writing. For me, writing is liberating for several reasons, but to be able to get to know myself better by tapping into different creative wells is something I recommend to everyone. Besides, if you see my music collection and you see my music history on Pandora, Spotify, and YouTube, it’s clear to see that I’m a fan of variety. But more than that, I’m also a fan of creativity and would like to consider myself on the way to being a type of ambassador to that because I certainly think being creative is immensely healthy since it lets you use the good and bad from life to perform emotional alchemy and create something new.

As for writing, I go from Gaiman style urban fantasies to Bukowski poetry and also Alice in Wonderland like short stories, which is part of the reason why I was invited here.

Could you tell us a bit about your latest book?

Given to Fly is my first full-length middle-grade fantasy and a book where I worked tirelessly to bring forth a world of wonder and adventure without the use of violence. We follow the adventures of John Rivers, a kind 11-year-old boy who finds himself now living in the Pacific Northwest. A curious kid, he looks all around his house in search of something adventurous and comes up empty… but after playing on a hill next to his house, he discovers a cove below with a huge tree and on that tree, nestled gingerly on its side sits a magical house called Od Manor. John sees a shadow and thinks someone in trouble so he climbs down the cliff face and into the house only to realize that things are not as they seem, especially when he bumps into talking furniture in the living room and the owner of Od Manor, Fäet Odstein, a wonka-esque character with a flair for the random and the commitment to help John with his dream of flying. Room after room, John and Fäet touch base with all his house guests to see if anyone can help John to fly, which is half the fun. As per usual, JD Estrada includes a chock-full of Easter eggs along with wordplay, dust bunnies, Library pillaging bookworms, and even an angel, because why not?

How long have you been writing, and how many books have you published to date?

I’ve been writing for well over 20 years but began my author career 5 years ago when I published my first novel Only Human (Book 1 of the Human Cycle). It’s been a wild ride and all in all, I’ve published 12 books…. And now it’ll be a lovely baker’s dozen thanks to Given to Fly.

Do you have a favourite character? If so, why?

From all of my books, there are too many to choose from but I think it’s close between Mrs. Fawn, Captain Jane, Bill, and Daniel from the Human Cycle. After I officially publish Given to Fly (December 1^st), it’s VERY likely I’ll add some names to this list. It’s been a joy to write.

You write in several genres. Do you have a favourite? And if so, why?

I think the variety of genres responds to my personality and I get a LOT of satisfaction from that freedom and that variety. I love the immediacy of poetry but love weaving a long tale that leaves people wanting more.

Why did you write this book? What was your inspiration?

I got an amazing gift inspired by my favorite song by my favorite band and I needed to write something without violence. In short, this is a love letter to Hayao Miyazaki, to Pearl Jam, to Tori Amos, to my wife, my mom, my friends, to the band Elbow, to my favorite restaurants from back in Puerto Rico, and so many other things. I wanted to write something that would break someone’s writing slump, that would cheer them up when they’re blue, that would have a chance at being the first book someone loves and countless other things.

What did you enjoy most about writing your book?

It was immensely liberating to write without violence to the point that I’ll be doing a series of books and labeling them as Odventure Novels. I think we’re at a point in time where we could use some kindness and smiles and I want to do my best to invest in that.

Can you tell us about your writing process? Where do your ideas originate? Do you have a certain writing routine?

Each and every writing project is its own beast. Ideas come from everywhere and I have a wide variety of capture tools. From idea dump documents and notebooks to loose napkins with notes. My writing routine is to find the time when I can and make it count. Sometimes you have hours, other times you have minutes. Don’t complain is my mantra, just get the story on the paper. Writing by longhand definitely helps me in this because all I need is some paper and ink (Note to up and coming writers who want to try this, ALWAYS carry at least 3 pens :D).

What is your greatest challenge as a writer?

Time and energy are my biggest challenges. Working in advertising, I have to find motivation even when there isn’t any, energy even when I’m exhausted, and time even if I have to take a notebook to a bathroom and lock the door. I don’t lack determination and the hoops are testing me to see how much I want to pursue that dream and this time around it’s 13 times I’ve beat the odds and challenges and offered a slice of my soul for others to hopefully read and review.

What’s your next project? Any upcoming book secrets you care to reveal?

There’s ALWAYS something in the pipeline where I’m concerned and next up for me is the conclusion to the Human Cycle and am also working on a collaboration with Cate Evans, a fellow author from the UK and a wonderful friend I’ve received on my writer journey.

You can find JD Estrada and his wonderful books at these sites:

Libros 787 - Books2Read - Amazon - Website - Twitter - Instagram

Google+ - Facebook Page - Goodreads - Soundcloud

Ambrosia Blog Tour: Interview With Author Stephanie Ayers

Today, I'm am pleased to be part of the blog tour for the poetry collection, Ambrosia: An OWS Ink Anthology. For this stop on the tour, I bring you a delightful interview with one of the anthology's authors, Stephanie Ayers. As well, the proceeds from this book are being donated to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, so I encourage you to check out the book. You'll find a blurb and an Amazon link at the end of the post.

Interview with Stephanie Ayers

Why don’t you begin by sharing a little about yourself.

Hello! I am Stephanie Ayers, an author of horror and fantasy. Most of my writings are short stories involving the supernatural, paranormal, and bringing inanimate objects to life. I also own half of a publishing company that debuted in November 2016 and claims 7 books under its imprint, the most recent one our annual poetry anthology, Ambrosia. I’m working at establishing myself as a graphic designer doing book covers and graphics needed to help author build their platforms. When I am not doing any of these things, I am a football, soccer, and basketball mom who avoids housework, growing up, and zombies though not necessarily in that order.

Could you tell us a bit about your latest book?

Sept 16 launches our latest book, Ambrosia: An OWS Ink Anthology. It is a collection of poetry from 9 different writers, each with their own unique take on life. The idea behind the title is that poetry is the nectar of the gods (called Ambrosia) and the words within celebrate this feast with an incredible blend of heartache, longing, inspiration, desperation, fantasy, and more.

How long have you been writing, and how many books have you published to date?

I have been writing since 4^th grade. I wrote a lot during my school years, and then switched to poetry in my mid-teens, and then to song writing in my 20s. I have one romantic horror novella of my own, along with 5 short stories published in anthologies, and 17 poems published in Ambrosia. In October, my short story collection, The 13: Tales of Illusory, will also be released.

Why did you decide to write poetry?

I’m not really sure why I started to write poetry. At first it was a challenge to write something different from the fiction I usually wrote, plus I sought fame. Everything I saw at 17 and 18 revolved around poetry, so that’s where I went, too. As I grew older, it became a method of release for me. There’s just something about weaving your tears and broken thoughts into a poetic form that makes you feel better.

You write in several genres. Do you have a favourite? And if so, why?

Fantasy is my favorite, though horror seems to be what I write most of. Fantasy is my favorite genre to read as well. I mean, you know unicorns. Elves. Fairies. Dragons. New worlds. I can create my own little world to escape to. Hopefully a few of you come with me.

What is your greatest challenge as a writer?

My greatest challenge as a writer is turning my stories into full length novels. I’m so accustomed to writing short stories that it has become a challenge to write something longer than 15,000-20,000 words and even that seems excessive to me.

Do you have a favourite author, or writing inspiration?

My bookshelf is full of everything, but I can’t pass a Stephen King book without picking it up. I would have to say that he is my favorite and has had a lot of influence on my writing style. I’m also a huge fan of James Patterson and Kristin Hannah. I’ve heard there’s a little Patterson in my writing as well.

What advice would you give beginning writers?

Oh gosh, where do I start? I know… I’ll just drop two of my personal quotes here: “One single letter cures the blank page.”
“The more you doubt your talent and strive to improve, the better the writer.”




What’s your next project? Any upcoming book secrets you care to reveal?

The 13: Tales of Illusory is set for release October 1. This is a collection of my short horror stories and contain villains from many different parts of life, and range from the supernatural to paranormal and most anything in between. My favorite story in the book is a ghostly tale titled Say Say Oh Playmate. Mere is the lone survivor of a playground shooting and grows up haunted by the incident. Things get quite hairy for her when the game the children were playing when they were slaughtered starts playing on a loop in her head. Is Meredith going crazy or is someone playing a trick on her? This was an absolute treat to write.

A published author with a knack for twisted tales, Stephanie Ayers is the Executive Creative Director of OWS Ink, LLC, a community for writers and readers alike. She loves a good thriller, fairies, things that go bump in the night, and sappy stories. When she is not writing, she can be found in Creative Cloud designing book covers and promotional graphics for authors.

Website  Facebook  Amazon

You can check out Ambrosia: An OWS Ink Anthology on Amazon

Available for Pre-order

Delight in the nectar of the gods. Feed your mind with Ambrosia

Whispers to the gods are like honey from a poet's lips. When several poets raise their voices together, it's a sacred feast of memories and dreams. Poetry is divine food for the soul, full of emotional and celestial feeling. Join us in our longing, our pain and passion, heartache, logic and insanity, fear, faith, confusion, hope, unity, solitude, daily life, political strife, and more.

From the creative minds of Eric Keizer, A.L. Mabry, Sam DeLoach, Alyssa Trivett, Mello Sakia, Stacy Overby, Phillip Matthew Roberts, Veronica Falletta and Stephanie Ayers.

The Poets of this project have partnered with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and all royalties will be donated to this charity.

And be sure to check out the rest of the tour: Ambrosia Blog Tour

Interview With Author Thomas McRae

Today I have another interview, this time with poet and author Thomas McRae. Enjoy!

Interview With Thomas McRae

Why don't you begin by sharing a little about yourself?

I started writing when I was in Elementary School and from that point on I couldn't stop moving a pen or pencil on my paper.

Could you tell us a bit about your latest book?

Yes. Pimp in the Pulpit is inspired by my family and the craziness that comes with them all.

How long have you been writing and how many books have you published to date?

I've been writing since I was a child but I didn't start pursuing publishing as a real career until I got into my twenties. As of now I have 12 books published to date. But if you want my honest opinion Pimp in the Pulpit really feels like my first book, because it's the first time I'm taking full responsibility and control in regards of marketing, promoting and generating sales virtually all by myself.

Why did you decide to write in the short fiction genre?

Because I have so much to say but I don't want to say it all at once. Short fiction is a great way to tell a significant piece of your story without giving out all the necessary information at once.

What is the hardest part of writing short fiction?

Truth be told I don't find anything hard about it. I just take different story lines from my personal experiences and write it down as much as possible, then I remember to orchestrate other people's events into the storyline as well. And if for some reason I do develop some writer's block or if I'm not sure I should put something down in the story line  then I would read that section to my mom and get her perspective. Because she's kind of like my ghost writer and personal editor.

What do you enjoy most about writing in the short fiction genre?

I enjoy the whole process, because thinking about new storylines from personal experiences is amazing and therapeutic. I find it refreshing when I can take frustrating personal experiences whether it's mine or someone else's and find some humor and entertainment which could be used in my story line and plot.

Who is your intended readership?

That's the beauty about this book Pimp in the Pulpit. Everyone and anyone can relate to it because it's full of family issues, drama and suspense. It doesn't matter if you're black or white, Muslim or Jewish we all have family issues and we all need to express those issues in a constructive and positive way. If not for our selves then for the younger generation that is observing much of the bad and misguided behavior that is surrounding our family's.

Why did you write this book? What was your inspiration?

What inspired me to write this book was numerous things. First thing that comes to mind is how my parents would struggle to raise my brother and I and none of my relatives would make any real attempt to help out only on occasion and that is when they needed or wanted something in return. My reason for writing  this book is simple Redemption. Redemption for my loved ones, myself and for anyone who can relate to these troublesome times in their own lives.

What did you hope to accomplish by publishing your book?

All I ever wanted was to be heard. For years I felt invisible and now I have a voice and it feels good being heard. It doesn't matter who likes it or not I'm damn proud to have a voice and as long as God keeps air in my lungs I will continue to use my voice.

What advice would you give beginning writers?

I will tell them the truth, that it's a long road ahead of them. But it's also very fulfilling especially when you start taking things and doing it yourself and not look for anyone to help you. Because in the end of the day life is a one-time deal so live it to the fullest and make sure you make it count.

What do you like to do when you're not writing? Any hobbies? 

Personally I like to watch movies every now and then I read a good book. Or I will listen to some music depending on my mood but for the most part I watch movies and hang out with my immediate family members. Such as my mom, brother and my father and some very close friends that I consider family as well.

Are you working on another book? 

Yes actually I've been working on the sequel of Pimp in the Pulpit. And I'm happy to inform you that the book is done and being processed by my publisher Eber & Wein  Publishing. It's slightly longer than the first book and I have some surprises inside of the book as well. Such as newspaper clippings, a personal review from Mrs. Shirley Gerald Ware owner of Fresh  Literary Magazine and some magazine clippings about my article along with some poetry certificates. The book is Well written and it goes a little back during my child years and early 20's.

You can find Pimp in the Pulpit on:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Other books by Thomas McRae:

Poetry for the soul 

The soul of a poet 

The lost poems 

Poetic Salvation my acknowledgement to our Lord 1 & 2 

Expression 

Blue Print 

Supernova 

Street Trash 

The Best of Thomas McRae

Book Spotlight: Tales of a Receding Hairline

Today I have a poetry spotlight for the prolific songwriter and poet K.W. Peery and his new book, Tales of a Receding Hairline. Plus, I have a little excerpt from the book. Enjoy...

Tales of a Receding Hairline by K.W. Peery


Tales of a Receding Hairline is a collection of poetry. In the book, K.W. Peery writes about his personal life experiences. As he grapples with morality and mortality, the unvarnished truth is breathtakingly obvious. His unapologetic vulnerability is neatly embedded within each work. He has an innate ability to dig up his past and offer it to the reader as if they were sitting across the table having a conversation with him.  

You can find Tales of a Receding Hairline at:

Amazon

(Kindle available February 5th, 2016)

Or check out more at GenZPublishing.org

Poetry excerpt from Tales of a Receding Hairline: 

DAYBREAK

Before the gold of daybreak

Where sunlight warms your face

You feel a hint of sorrow

From the sins you can't erase

A long walk through the timber

For a soul that can't let go

Before the gold of daybreak

Carryin’ secrets ya never show

Before the gold of daybreak

Only truth left in your glass

Staring down both barrels

Praying the buzz will last

Trouble somehow finds you

As the depth of darkness leaves

Before the gold of daybreak

The only witnesses are the trees

Before the gold of daybreak

When your eyes are playing games

Ya swear you see her silhouette

Beyond the lighters flame

You hear a horned owl beckon

To the liar in your heart

Before the gold of daybreak

When your nerves just fall apart 

Before the gold of daybreak

When hope bleeds in the air

You strangle your inner voice

After tying him to his chair

Troubled, torn and tragic

A victim of self-defeat

Before the gold of daybreak

Long after your guilt’s asleep 

Author Bio: 

K.W. Peery is a prolific Americana songwriter and poet. He is most well known as a founding member of the Marshall/Peery Project. This collaboration produced four critically acclaimed studio album from 2005 to present. The Marshall/Peery Project frequently appear on the Roots Music Report and Americana Charts. Peery is also credited as a lyricist and producer for more than a dozen studio albums over the past decade.

Halloween Week: Darkling Poems

Today we wax poetic, shaded in black…

First up a terrifying trio of my poems:

Shadow Vows

I walk in deathly footsteps,

through the cold, long halls

A ring of gold, upon my finger,

and secrets upon my heart

I can hear her whisper,

Turn your eyes away

Eclipsing wisps of grey

haunt those empty corridors

A veil of white, follows me

and my strangling ring of gold

I can hear her whisper,

Turn your eyes away

Darkness harrows my nights

echoing down barren hallways

Tainted vows consume me

sealed with my wicked ring of gold

I can hear her whisper,

Turn your eyes away

© A. F. Stewart 2015 All Rights Reserved

Into the Arms of Death

Sing that softest lullaby,

those strains of mourning dirge

that fare thee well goodbye

Sing that softest lullaby

Saddened notes, a broken sigh

and gentle tears you purge

Sing that softest lullaby,

those strains of mourning dirge

© A. F. Stewart 2015 All Rights Reserved

A Night in the Cemetery

A quiet evening and a soft wind, where the wisps of dried leaves and dust waft gently. A full moon cracks the darkness that settled like soot on cobblestones. The graveyard silence drapes in beauty and gloom…

Cold, pallid—lost soul

waxen moonlight flickers across

bones rising from graves

From Colours of Poetry

© A. F. Stewart 2015 All Rights Reserved

And here are some macabre selections from my guest poet, the talented Sean Theall.

"Whispers from Below"

Please my dear, you mustn’t scream.

You must lie still to conserve air...

stay calm. Don't let the darkness

envelope you, befriend shadows

and twilight sounds. It's how

the other half lives deep within

the ground.

If you can relax and hold your

breath keeping the nerves at

bay and overcoming death.

Talking back to an owls call

for company. Your heart thumping

and pumping in time. The container’s

walls that you are encased in are

closing in. Slowly losing your grip

on reality and losing your mind.

Hearing muffled speech through

the slats of wood. Listening very

close to get some clue on how

to possibly escape, and bring

back the color in your face

before it's too late.

Please be a good little

victim close your eyes

and breathe out a quiet

exhale, let the serum take

effect and let your dreams

carry you to hell.

Sean C. Theall © 2015

"Babies Breath"

Jack and Lily are not two

of kind but are connected

by love and family and

of one mind.

These little ones are

inseparable. Their fate

locked within a dream

Terrible, insane. running

around for a day of play.

Chasing each other through

their home. Making their

way to the bathroom,

standing by the sink

playing in the water.

I watch from a distance.

quickly glancing into the

mirror, a sticker with the

word "scream" appears.

in the blink of an eye,

an ear piercing shriek

comes from the bathroom.

Dashing in, the next sight

is a full bathtub with tikes

wrapped up in a shower

curtain.

Early lives dashed

innocent mistake,

stealing babies breath.

Innocent looks preserved

exhaling to the final act,

and the final act is... death.

© Sean C. Theall 2012

"Please Tale Spinner"

I have a request my dear.

Tell me something beautiful

and shocking as I get comfortable

anxiously waiting to hear.

Work your magic with the

typewriter or computer

keys. I am really picky but

I am confident you have

the skills to please.

How will you construct

my newest nightmare?

Hold my hand, please

cher, as I slowly slip

away...

Please go let me go

If I must; ok but let

my spirit stay.

To comfort and encourage

you to slash and hack through

the story. I do have a question,

"Do I want my body back?"

I do enjoy the quiet fireside

chats we have discussing story

and poetry structures, and our

characters' fates. Finish your yarn

before the midnight chime

rings. Before it's too late.

You are one of the best at

what you do. You have all

that you need. A nightmare

mind, paper, imagination

and the willingness to

bleed.

Sean C. Theall © 2015

And so ends today's Halloween fun.
Tomorrow I have a spotlight for the book, Everlasting: Da Eb'Bulastin

And remember, for a Halloween treat, both books in my Killers and Demons series

are free until midnight October 31^st on Smashwords. 

Check them out here:

Killers and Demons

Killers and Demons II: They Return