Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Please Welcome Author Christina Hoctor

Good evening. Please help me in welcoming author Christina Hoctor. Hello Christina. Thank you for coming to interview with me today. Please tell us a little about yourself.

I was born in green county Ohio my passion is the joy of writing I have one sister Sarah Johnson,one uncle Larry Sparks and grandmother Shirley Denton,Father Richard Hoctor I started writing poetry two years ago I have one poetry book published called Little Children's Prayer's All Around The World.

Please tell me about your novel. Who or what was your inspiration behind it?


My book is to tell people how much a mother's love is for a child my inspiration was my grandma Shirley Denton who is also a published author

What are some of your favorite genres to read and to write?

I like to read cookbooks and magazines and I like to write christian stuff

What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What was the biggest compliment? Did those change how or what you did in your next novel?

I haven't had none yet but I am sure I will


When you sit down to write, do you do it the old-fashioned way with pen and paper or do you use a computer? Do you prefer one way or the other?

I use the computer


What do you do when you are not writing? Do you pick up some from you to be read pile?

yes

Compared to when you first started writing, have you notice any big changes in your writing style or how you write compared from then to now?

yes I am getting better at my writing

What do you look for in a book when you sit down to read for fun?

I look for a book that is so good I can't stop reading it


What has been your favorite part of being an author? What has been your least favorite?


my favorite part is getting new author friends and the least is I don't like to write very much in my books I like them to be short

When you walk into a book store, where do you head to first? Why?

I go straight for the comic section because I like to read them kind of books
Did you get to quit your day job and become an author or do you still have a day job and writing is something you do for fun? If you still have a day job, what is it?

I am a stay at home author and I write because it has a wonderful feeling to get something published.

A Mother's Love by Christina Hoctor
ISBN: 978-1492773450
Publisher: CreateSpace


Softcover (28 pages)
Kindle

Book blurb:

A book of poetry about a mother's love and the journey that is being a parent.



Thursday, November 28, 2013

Wishing.....


Happy Thanksgiving to all my wonderful fans. Thank you for your continued support, I appreciate each and every one of you. May God bless each and every one of you today and always. 

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Jesus Paid It All by Ruthie Madison

Jesus Paid It All by Ruthie Madison
ISBN: 9781310080227
Publisher: Smashwords
E-book

Purchase the book here:
Smashwords

Book blurb:

One woman's sin had opened the door for another--enter Diethelm the Witch. He and his younger sister had schemed to destroy Darlene's marriage by way of seduction to both Darlene and her husband Dylan, who was stationed in Afghanistan.

Can God forgive the erring couple of falling into temptation or is there no way out?

Darlene also has a mysterious connection to witchcraft that also draws Diethelm to her. Will she be able to overcome the dark powers of witchcraft used against her?





About the author:


My name is Ruthie Madison (known as Ruthie Derby to her friends and family). I am a romance author but you might as well call me a hopeless romantic. I also devotes much of my attention, along with my sister to caring for our widowed mother. I also enjoy reading, crocheting and walking. She is a member of a family of deep faith which I express trough personal devotion and regular church attendance.

Contact the author: Website | Blog

Monday, October 21, 2013

Another Wonderful Tale By Jerry Jenkins

I, Saul by Jerry B. Jenkins
ISBN: 978-1617950063
Publisher: Worthy Publishing
Hardcover (400 pages)

Purchase the book:
Amazon

Book blurb:

A MURDERER who would change the WORLD

From multi-million copy best-selling novelist Jerry Jenkins comes a compelling international thriller that conveys you from present-day Texas to a dank Roman dungeon in A.D. 67, then down the dusty roads of ancient Israel, Asia, and back to Rome.

A young seminary professor, Augustine Knox, is drawn into a deadly race to save priceless parchments from antiquities thieves and discovers a two- thousand-year old connection with another who faced death for the sake of the truth. I, Saul consists of two riveting adventures in one, transporting you between the stories of Augustine Knox and Saul of Tarsus.

Filled with political intrigue, romance, and rich historical detail, I, Saul is a thrilling tale of loyal friendships tested by life-or-death quests, set two millennia apart, told by a master storyteller.


I received a complimentary copy of this book from Worthy Publishing for the purpose of review. The review is my honest opinion and I was not paid for this service.

I, Saul was an incredible book that I just could not put down. Jerry Jenkins did an excellent job bringing you into the lives of the Apostle Paul and Augustine Knox. Jerry Jenkins did a wonderful job captivating me from the very first page and keeping my attention until the very end. While part of the story is in the present and part is in the past, the author wrote each section in a way that made you feel as though you were actually there. I could picture in my mind all that Saul, who was later named Paul, was going through. I could feel the excitement, the love, the tension and all that Auggie (Augustine Knox) was encountering. 

Jerry Jenkins has a descriptive and easy writing style that not only entertains the reader, but captivates the reader into a story that is not only well-written but exciting. The only thing that I did not like about the book was that the story was over before I was ready. It left me wanting to know more about the lives of the characters; perhaps the author will write more about them in another book.

I gave this book 5 stars out of a total of 5 stars. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a great read!

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Please Welcome Author Deborah Brooks

This afternoon I have the pleasure of interviewing author Deborah Brooks. Please give her a warm welcome. Hello Deborah and thank you for joining us today. Please tell us a
little about yourself.

Pam, first I want to thank you for taking the time to interview me.. I am honored. I have been writing poems all my life. When I was in school I would write instead of listen and dream of different poems and stories. My passion is poetry. I love to write and if I don't write I feel very depressed. Writing my poetry and stories helps me emotionally. I was born in North Carolina, I am a military brat. We lived in Germany and Spain and Turkey. My father's side of the family comes from Cherokee North Carolina and my mother's families are English. I dedicated everything I do in the memory of my wonderful sweet mother and to Jesus Christ My Lord and Savior. I have written two poetry books. "My Heart I give"
"Silenced Hearts" My novel "Brooke" is being Edited again will be back on amazon shortly... I am writing the sequel to "Brooke" called "Brooke and Nick" And the third book in the series. "Brooke Forever"
Brooke in her young days I am working on children's books too. Nine in all..... Plus a cookbook......
I love working for our country. I am very passionate about that. I love working with the veterans. My father is a veteran from Pork chop in the Korean war and and two tours in Vietnam. I married my sweet husband from high school, He retired from the Navy.

Please tell me about your novel. Who or what was your inspiration behind it?

Pam, my Novel Brooke, starts in 1969; a young woman in high school meets the love of her life. Her parents do not like this young man after he gets her pregnant, so he was forced to go away to have her baby. And after she was forced to give her baby away…she spends 40 years looking for her baby and the love of her life. She goes through a lot of hardships….

The inspiration behind this Novel was from parts of my life that happened to me but there is a lot of fiction in the book.

What are some of your favorite genres to read and to write?

Pam, I love to read and write poetry. I always have. There is so much in a few little lines of poetry that can mean so much. Poetry speaks to me. I love anything by Jane Austin.. I love the Authors from England and I love historical novels.

What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What was the biggest compliment? Did those change how or what you did in your next novel?
Pam that is some great questions, first of all the toughest criticism I have had was I need to stick with writing poetry. Or get deeper in my characters in my Novel. The greatest compliment is I write great poetry. I am very glad I was told this about my writing of my characters. I am going more in-depth of their lives. Sometimes Criticism might hurt but you can always go with it to help you.
When you sit down to write, do you do it the old-fashioned way with pen and paper or do you use a computer? Do you prefer one way or the other?

Pam I use my laptop. But if I am riding in a car and I get inspired I have pen and paper then and sometimes I will type it on my phone and send it to myself.

What do you do when you are not writing? Do you pick up some from your to be read pile?


I have a full life. I am very active at church. I have grandkids I am involved with, I do read a lot. I like to interview other Christian authors like you do. I want to make sure to help out all new writers if I can.

Compared to when you first started writing, have you notice any big changes in your writing style or how you write compared from then to now?
Oh Pam, I have to say yes, I have noticed such a big difference and I feel I have so much to learn. But it’s a journey and I have to say I have had so much fun.

After retiring from full time work, and when I first started writing full time, I was so green. I have to say I have learned so much.


What do you look for in a book when you sit down to read for fun?

Pam, I love romance and inspirational, and lots of poetry.

What has been your favorite part of being an author? What has been your least favorite?
Pam, my favorite part of being an author, I love just being able to write and write about our Lord, how so many different situations and hurts and loss and lead to our Lord. How He is always there for us if we only just reach out to Him.

When you walk into a book store, where do you head to first? Why?

Pam, I love the Christian historical books and the romance and of course the classics.. And any poetry I can find.

Did you get to quit your day job and become an author or do you still have a day job and writing is something you do for fun? If you still have a day job, what is it?

Pam, I am retired… I started writing for therapy.. And then I couldn’t quit I loved it.. The more poems I wrote the more I had to write..
What has been the strangest thing that a reader has asked you?
Pam, I have had writers to help them with titles of poems and books and help them make decisions on wording. Etc. That’s as strange that I remember..
What is your favorite junk food vice?

Pam, chocolate.. I love chocolate..

Besides writing and reading, what is your most favorite thing to do?
Pam, I love to travel.. Anywhere and everywhere..

Did you have any teacher in school that encouraged you to write? Did you take their advice?
Pam, my fifth grade teacher got me started reading the classics introduced me to Jane Austin.. I would write poetry but she was the only one that understood me.. And she did encourage me.

We all have our little things when it comes to reading, is there anything that bugs you when you read a novel? What is it?
Well Pam, I love the romance, but I hate to stay on one character so long that I get bored.

What do you listen to when you write? Do you find one type of music over another that inspires you to write? Why?

Pam, I love Italian guitar music love songs.. Always puts me in the mood.

On a typical weekend, what can we find you doing? Who are you with?
I am with my dear husband; we go to the lake if we are not working in the yard or if I do not have a deadline.

What genre are you most looking forward to exploring during your writing career? Why?

Pam, this did not start as a writing career.. I have so much to learn. I am always amazed that anyone would want to read anything by me.. I would want to get children’s books and cookbooks published.
Who was your current novel dedicated to? Any particular reason?

Pam, all my books are dedicated To Jesus Christ and my family.. Without them I would have nothing to write about. And to my Father who just passed away on June 30th 2013.

What are you currently reading?

Pam, I am currently reading, Smoothwolf by Rolly Chabot.. Excellent writer.. He writes from his heart.
Who are your favorite authors?
Pam, my favorite Authors are Susan Joyner Stumpf, Rolly Chabot and Jane Austin

What authors inspired you to write this particular novel? Why?
Pam it was not an Author that inspired me to write. It was a very emotional time in my life. My husband and I were breaking up and I had my heart was broken. And there were things in my past I could not remember. Writing helped me remember.
What 7 words would you use to describe yourself.

Pam, gee what a question. Let’s see: Determined Loving Happy Busy Emotional Loyal Romantic

Which is your favorite character in your book and why?

Pam, I have to admit that Brooke is my favorite.. Although she makes so many mistakes she is always looking for the Lord to help her and although it takes her a long time to run into His arms she never gives up.



Is there anything else that you would like to share or say to those who will read this interview?

Pam, I would like to add, to those especially that are just starting out to never give up and always be happy and Work for the Lord God Jesus Christ, and that is for all of us.. It is so easy to get sidetracked. But if you feel like you are getting sidetrack step back and take a deep breath and ask Jesus to help you get back on track.

Contact the author: Lulu | Amazon | Website

The Sword of Hope by Christopher Bryant

The Sword of Hope by Christopher Bryant
ISBN-13: 978-0741465962
Publisher: Infinity Publishing
Softcover (138 pages)

Purchase the book:
Amazon

Book blurb:

My book is about two boys, one who is destined by the stars to walk a path laidout by destiny. The other, who is simply the help, will step out from the
shadows and prove he’s more than just the help. The Sword of Hope is a growing up tale for the two boys, Christian and Tiberius. As the story begins, both boys are completely inexperienced with the exception of the training provided by their teacher, Shino. Christian, who comes to find he’s destined to be this great hero, becomes overwhelmed by the thought of that responsibility after being thrust unwillingly into that role due to Gmonkis. Gmonkis is the boys first true enemy they’ll have to face in order to begin their path to the greater good. Tiberius, the axe wielding, energetic helper tags along once Christian passes his first test in the family safe, thus becoming more confident in his goal. He and Tiberius set out to the Forest of Lost Emotion to face Gmonkis, but find that their enemy is not quite what they expected. As they learn from this newfound ally, they realize the real danger. The real enemy, their mission, is beyond the borders of their small town surrounded by trees.


As the boys go along, facing evil at every turn, meeting allies, and forming bonds unbreakable, they begin to grow into they men they were both destined to become. Christian steps into the shoes of his destiny and embraces it full heartedly. Tiberius learns to step out of the shadows and show he’s more than just the help.Christian and Tiberius will encounter many different types of creatures, both good and evil along their path. They will find friends, who will see into their hearts and help them bring out their inner destined soul. The boys will encounter their worst enemy, whom they are subjected to torture by several times. The black knight, Chingon, who was once one of the royal guard of the flying city, is the first and most powerful of Sephiran’s generals. It is by his hand, a dear friend of Christian and Tiberius is slain. The black knight appears almost everywhere there is trouble, pulling the strings. Tiberius grows mad with rage at the death of his friend, and swears a blood mission. He is to destroy this black knight, but not before Chingon leaves his mark. Tiberius will carry a constant reminder of what happened. The boys will have to use everything they have in order to get through the hell on earth  caused by Sephiran and his minions….and they will…Destiny has written it in the stars. 

 Meet author Christopher Bryant

My name is Chris Bryant. I’m 27, born raised in Lexington, Ky. I love to write. I have been writing since I was little, always short stories about action or adventures I’d have liked to have been on. The Sword of Hope is my first of many books to come. My dream has always been to be able to get one of my stories published. This is my first full length story. Let me know what you think!!

Contact the author: Facebook | Twitter

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Calastan by Cheryllynn Dyess

Calastan (Jein's Journey) by Cheryllynn Dyess
ISBN-13: 978-1491206119
Publisher: CreateSpace
Softcover (130 pages)

Purchase the book:
Amazon

Blurb:



Follow Jein Kyominias, a girl who does not entertain the established roles other females of the upper class take in her land. Her rearing in a matriarchal society has certain paths laid out. She has chosen to be an elite hunter instead of a mere matron. She is unique in her fondness for activities that are specifically bequeathed for men. She decides she will be different---strong and different that is.


Each person has a distinct trait that's either held in reserve or pursued without inhibitions. For reasons that vary, the latter may seem an egotistic act. However, not for Jein. Taking a path other than the one she believes is right is like betraying her own soul. This book features a young girl who deals with her individuality in admirably different ways. It tell a story of how she accomplishes exceptional feats in a world that draws an unyielding line between men and women. Follow Jein Kyominias, a girl who does not entertain the established roles other females of the upper class take in her land. Her rearing in a matriarchal society has certain paths laid out. She has chosen to be an elite hunter instead of a mere matron. She is unique in her fondness for activities that are specifically bequeathed for men. She decides she will be different---strong and different that is.


Excerpt:

“My people are an ancient one, with a history as long as our worlds. Our world is one of beauty and mystery known only to a few humanoid races, Euphasia. We are the fifth world in our galaxy of twelve. The other planets are Arouyura, Kylia, Qalitinym, Talinusia, Sedariaum, Perutiuous, Remjein, Anastasinay, Makyli, Cajostan and Aliyaminum. My home is known as Calastan, the capital of all Euphasia.”


About the Author

Cheryllynn’s vivid imagination comes through in all she does in life. Her writing started in junior high and although she never truly shared her work until recently she kept them hidden away in an old tattered orange folder. Original works she wrote from 1984 still holding ink on the pages may one day be shared, but for now she shares her newer creations. Science Fiction and Fantasy are her favorite genres with mystery and thrillers in close running.

Born in Northwest Florida and raised in Southeast Georgia she gained a love for nature and the outdoors. Currently living in Central Texas with two of her four children, she has begun a new chapter in life that has opened her heart and soul to many great adventures. Her dreams are to one day return to her native homes and settle in for life with her kids and all her family and to continue writing.
Contact the author: Amazon | Facebook | Twitter | Blog | Website | Goodreads | Email




Monday, September 30, 2013

Another Great Book by Joel C Rosenberg

Damascus Count Down by Joel C Rosenberg
ISBN-13: 978-1414319704
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers
Hardcover: 480 pages

Purchase the book:
Amazon

Blurb:

All eyes are on the Middle East. Israel has successfully launched a first strike on Iran, taking out all of their nuclear sites and six of their nuclear warheads—and causing The Twelfth Imam to order a full-scale retaliation. U.S. President William Jackson threatens to support a U.N. Security Council resolution condemning the Jewish State for unprovoked and unwarranted acts of aggression.

Meanwhile, CIA operative David Shirazi has infiltrated the Iranian regime and intercepted information indicating that two Iranian nuclear warheads survived the attack and have been moved to a secure and undisclosed location. In danger not only from the ongoing missile strikes on Iran but also from the increasingly hostile and suspicious governments of multiple countries, David and his team are in a race against time to find the remaining nuclear warheads before disaster strikes. 

 
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishing for the purpose of review. The review is my honest opinion and I was not paid for this service.

Damascus Countdown
continues where The Tehran Initiative left off. Mr. Rosenberg's writing style allows you to pick up and read and still know what is going on without having read any of the previous books. Joel Rosenberg does not shy away from end time prophecy, nor does he back off from prominently displaying the faith of his Christian characters. Damascus Countdown is a captivating thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It is a book that will keep will pull you in from page one and keep you until you turn the very last page. This was a book that I had to read in one sitting as I could not put it down. I love how he takes Biblical prophecy and real events and interweaves it with fiction to create a very believable story. I have enjoyed this series tremendously and am sad that this is the last of the series.

I recommend this book to anyone who wants not only a good read, but enjoys a fast-paced Christian thriller with tons of action.

I give this book 4 stars out of a total of 5 stars.

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

The Farm of Wisdom by Warren Cassell JR

The Farm of Wisdom by Warren Cassell JR
ISBN-13: 978-1619332959
Publisher: FastPencil, Inc.
Softcover (96 pages)
Kindle

Purchase the book:
Amazon

Book blurb:

Can one turn to nature for answers in today's world where so many are losing hope? Teenage serial entrepreneur, Warren Cassell, is confident that listening to the sounds of nature can solve many of today's problems. In The Farm of Wisdom, Warren shares twenty-­five life lessons that will ignite in you a flame of wisdom. With the help of a fictional farm and whimsical farm animals, Warren teaches that pigs, cows and even ants can teach us lessons. Through these unforgettable tales, we learn that despite formal schooling, life's critical lessons can be learnt within our own space. You will never think of a farm in the same manner again. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for the purpose of review. The review is my honest opinion and I was not paid for this service. 

The Farm of Wisdom: 25 Unforgettable Tales that Will Ignite a Wiser You! is a collection of stories that you might think of being told to children in the country sitting around on the back porch. It is written in an unique storytelling form that has not be seen in many years in the States. Imagine, a story with a moral. This book is well written with a dialogue that would easily come from a well educated adult or college student, yet this book was written by a 13 year old child. The stories within were both unique and interesting.

I give this book 3 stars out of a total of 5.

An Incredible Journey Through Interracial Love

The Moses Quilt by Kathi Macias
ISBN-13: 978-1596693586
Publisher: New Hope Publishers
Softcover (240 pages)
Kindle

Purchase the book:
Amazon

Book blurb:

The Moses Quilt, a contemporary novel that bridges racial and generational divides, gives a clear presentation of the gospel as readers are introduced to a confused and apprehensive Mazie Hartford. Mazie is facing major decisions about the love of her life and her future. Her great-grandmother comes to her rescue when she shows her the Moses quilt. As she learns that each patch represents a story of courage and freedom, Mazie finds the courage and freedom to make the right choices for her life. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for the purpose of review. The review is my honest opinion and I was not paid for this service.  

The Moses Quilt is an amazing love story between a young white woman and a black man. Their love is put to the test over and over as Mazie questions herself how she could possibly deal with the issues that others may have over their relationship. Her great-grandmother tells them the story of Harriet Tubman using her Moses quilt that she purchased earlier in life. Mazie thinks that the story can help her to decide whether or not to proceed with their wedding. How could a story about Harriet Tubman  possibly solve the issues that Mazie faced within herself ? That's was a question on my mind as I devoured the book.

Kathi Macias is an incredible storyteller. She pulls you right into the story from page one and keeps you until the very end. She will have you falling in love with her characters, crying when they cry, hurting when they do. The story is very well written with believable, lovable characters. This is one book that you just won't be able to put down until the very last page has been read. I thoroughly enjoyed the book even though I don't usually read historical or romance novels. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I recommend this book to anyone who loves a great book.

I give this book a total of 5 stars out of 5 stars.

REVIEW POLICY...UPDATED

PLEASE READ THE BELOW POLICY PRIOR TO SENDING ME YOUR BOOK FOR REVIEW! Thank you so much.

  •    I review as a hobby because I love to read.  I only accept the books that I am interested in reading.  It is very hard to write an exciting review about a book that I was not even interested in.
  • Genres that I prefer: Christian Fiction, Thrillers, Mystery, Adventure and Suspense.
  • I will however accept other genres if the book interests me.
  • Genres that I DO NOT accept: Paranormal, Horror, Romance, Erotica, any book that contains an excessive amount of profanity and Nonfiction.
  • I reserve the right to reject a book regardless of what genre it is if the book does not interest me.
  • I accept physical or kindle copies of the book for reviews only.
  •  I do not receive any compensation for my reviews.  If I received the book for free from an author, publisher, or publicist, I will clearly state that in my review. 
  • I will give an honest, courteous and respectful review of the book. 
  • It will take approximately 4 to 6 months for me to read and review the book, as I not only work a regular job, but am also writing my novels, I will be reading multiple other books for review  as well.  I will always read my books in the order that I receive them.  I will not be able to promise an exact date for when the review will be posted. Please remember that there are other books ahead of yours in line for a review also.
  • I will always post the review on my blog and send you the link.  I will also post it on Goodreads, Barnes & Noble and Amazon.
  • Please fill out the Contact Me form on the bottom of my blog page to submit your book review request. Please include a brief synopsis of your book. Thank you.

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Please Welcome Author Debbie Brooks

Hello Debbie and welcome to my blog. Thank you for coming out to interview with me this afternoon. Please tell us about yourself.

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

The Sword of Hope by Christopher Bryant

The Sword of Hope by Christopher Bryant
ISBN-13: 978-0741465962
Publisher: Infinity Publishing
Softcover (138 pages)

Purchase the book:
Amazon

Book blurb:

This is the story of two boys, one who is destined by the stars to walk a path laid out by destiny. The other, who is simply the help, will step out from the shadows and prove he's more than just the help.

“Another book that I just couldn't put down. To me, it was like sci-fi + conspiracy theory all rolled into one amazing book. As I read through this book, I was filled with anticipation, excitement and sadness. To see what these people went through and the courage that a lot of them had was amazing.

Well written. And the end - probably one of the best endings to a story that I have read in a long time. I have so much I want to share, but it's stuff I truly think you need to learn yourself.” Meghan.

About the author:

I came into the world one year before a man would walk on the moon, at the end of a decade that held the dawn of change in its guts. I was raised during a special and complex time but I retain memories of profound sensitivity and a love of knowledge that impregnated the experiences of my childhood. I look back fondly on my afternoons in the neighborhood. I can still see old the cinema where sensations, words and images appeared as if by magic before my wide eyes.

Time advanced with its sure steps and my love for the seventh art spread to a passion for literature. In the pages of books I discovered that prodigious spark which unites the author's tale to the depths of our imaginations. Through reading, writing and the tests life uses to shape us, I learned and grew. Creation and vision nested deep within me.

One day, four years ago, the stream of words and images that I had intoxicated myself with for so many years as reader and spectator, along with the clarity conferred by life's challenges, gave way to the writer that had been lurking within me, waiting for the chance to break free. 



That is how “THE BLEAK DOOR” was concocted, an intense and powerful tale, one that sticks to your skin as soon as you take it in your hands. We will travel its pages together, setting off as spectators. We will move quickly into a world of unique sensations, down a winding path paved with fear, drama, doubt and reflection. It will force us to look within ourselves, to flee, to rediscover who we are.

It is my hope, dear reader, that we remain forever united by this experience and that we may journey together always.

Please Help Me In Welcoming Author Christian Baker

Hello Christian and thank you for joining us today. Please tell us a little about yourself.


I came into the world one year before a man would walk on the moon, at the end of a decade that held the dawn of change in its guts. I was raised during a special and complex time but I retain memories of profound sensitivity and a love of knowledge that impregnated the experiences of my childhood. I look back fondly on my afternoons in the neighborhood. I can still see old the cinema where sensations, words and images appeared as if by magic before my wide eyes.
 

Time advanced with its sure steps and my love for the seventh art spread to a passion for literature. In the pages of books I discovered that prodigious spark which unites the author's tale to the depths of our imaginations. Through reading, writing and the tests life uses to shape us, I learned and grew. Creation and vision nested deep within me.
One day, four years ago, the stream of words and images that I had intoxicated myself with for so many years as reader and spectator, along with the clarity conferred by life's challenges, gave way to the writer that had been lurking within me, waiting for the chance to break free.
That is how “THE BLEAK DOOR” was concocted, an intense and powerful tale, one that sticks to your skin as soon as you take it in your hands. We will travel its pages together, setting off as spectators. We will move quickly into a world of unique sensations, down a winding path paved with fear, drama, doubt and reflection. It will force us to look within ourselves, to flee, to rediscover who we are.
It is my hope, dear reader, that we remain forever united by this experience and that we may journey together always.
 
Please tell me about your novel. Who or what was your inspiration behind it? 

The present work was inspired by a deep observation of historic and present events of tremendous impact on our society. I wanted to approach them not from a general perspective but from our deepest nature, that which defines our identity and gives way to our decisions. It’s not a book of theory. It’s a dark and breathless journey which we experience firsthand. It forces us to decide, to choose our path. And there, behind The Bleak Door, the consequences await.
When you sit down to write, do you do it the old-fashioned way with pen and paper or do you use a computer? Do you prefer one way or the other?

I love the romance and the mysticism of pen and paper. But when I write, I try to let the story come to life on its own impulse, from the innate force of the plot and the protagonists. When my imagination begins to move quicker than my pulse, the computer is a great ally without a doubt.
What do you look for in a book when you sit down to read for fun?
I want the story to transport me, to absorb me. To feel that it’s real and not just something to pass the time. And when I finish reading, something inside me has been transformed.

What has been your favorite part of being an author? What has been your least favorite?
Without doubt, the creation of the characters and how throughout the story, they appear to come to life and react and feel, beyond what you expected when you imagined them. They suffer, they love, they react with different perspectives, in different ways. And somehow they’re the ones that show me, from their point of view, where to go with the story that I propose as an author.
When you walk into a book store, where do you head to first? Why?

Book stores have something magical about them, they give off a certain aura. I like to wander aimlessly around the tables and the shelves and surprise myself.

Besides writing and reading, what is your most favorite thing to do?

I have a particular weakness for knowledge. I love to learn new things, to see other perspectives. I also enormously enjoy technology and the Internet.

But above all, what I like most is to spend time with the people I love, to share in the magic of the mundane.

We all have our little things when it comes to reading, is there anything that bugs you when you read a novel? What is it?
I don’t like it when a novel is predictable, slow, or emotionless. But most of all I don’t like it if a story is written for the sole purpose of selling. Besides that, even a simple story but well told, with feeling, where the author really wanted to transmit something, could be worth reading. But you must always respect the reader.

What do you listen to when you write? Do you find one type of music over another that inspires you to write? Why?
At some parts of the story, it helps me to listen to soft or relaxing music, something instrumental. At other times I am so concentrated and absorbed by the story I’m telling that silence is my best companion.
Who are your favorite authors?

Author Clarke or Asimov in Sci-Fi. Harlan Coben in the thriller genre, Carlos Zafón for stories of love and drama. There are constant surprises and talented authors to discover, even in the most unexpected books.
Is there anything else that you would like to share or say to those who will read this interview?
Just that THE BLEAK DOOR is there, waiting for you to discover it. I invite you to accompany me on this journey in which we will share a unique, jarring story. Along with the protagonists we’ll live through extreme experiences. We will have to make decisions, to face impossible challenges, to transform. And there, in the deepest part of our interiors, maybe, just maybe, we will find the answers.

The Bleak Door by Christian Baker
ISBN-13: 978-1490503004
Publisher: CreateSpace
Softcover (472 pages)

Purchase the book:
Amazon

Book blurb:

The President of the United States is abruptly hit by a serious and unknown disease. Suddenly, and while his successor was being discussed, he miraculously recovers. Relief rapidly spreads among his assistants and public opinion. The most powerful man on the planet has come back. Or, at least, that is what everyone thought. A different enemy, beyond our understanding, expands his webs. Soon changes in laws, persecutions, and weird and flabbergasting experiments start to take place. A top-notch interdisciplinary team is clandestinely put together in order to grasp the inexplicable and thus put up some sort of resistance. They were not aware that the knowledge of that truth might only be the beginning of the nightmare. The Bleak Door tells us about a world becoming oppressive, violent, without any clear apparent reasons. It faces us with complex questions of our inner self and our response towards manipulation both from an individual and a social level. It positions us before our selfishness, our decisions. And, above all, their consequences. An electrifying, obscure, fast-paced story from its very first page. SCI-FI Thriller.
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