GMB:  Today we welcome to the 'Anything But A Tired Barn' Dianne Lynn Gardner, an author who I have come to know through the wonderful Master Koda Select Publishing family... Now, I am also getting to know Dianne the artist as well ... Dianne, welcome to this Tired Barn Blog *Smiles all Around*.

DLG:  Thank You for the Warm Welcome Mitch *Smiles*.

GMB:  I am looking forward to our time here ... Now Dianne, I'm going to start out a little different today ... I get a feeling this is just the right question for you to answer, for our readers and Tired Barn Blog fans to learn more about you right off ... Now tell us ... For what are you grateful?

DLG:  I’m grateful that I made it through the 60s in one piece. A lot of us didn’t! I’m grateful for my kids and grandkids. I’m grateful that I can live out dreams that I once had when I was young, thanks to the support of my husband. I’m grateful for Christ.

GMB:  Oh this is great ... Very nice Dianne ... If you had two years left to live from this moment, what would you change about your life starting tomorrow?

DLG:  I’d try to be kinder. I could give more of my time and my services to people who could use it.

GMB:  Again, I am truly liking getting to know you ...  *smiles*  And what is one of the most unusual things you have done in your life? 

DLG:  Living in a Hogan, herding sheep and cows. Going on a wagon ride along the Interstate just for the sake of roughing it for a few days? 

GMB:  Now it sounds like you have spent time in the Southwest United States. Some of these activities sound very familiar to me ... given I lived in the Southwest for many years...

DLG:  Perhaps ...  maybe Winslow, Arizona...

GMB:  Ah... New Mexico here... A bit Coy *winks, nods, smiles*  Okay... Who is your favorite character from your books and why?

DLG:  Ian. I love watching him grow and sometimes I just want to hug him because things get so tough for him. 

GMB:  Dianne, who is your favorite author, and how did they inspire you to write?

DLG:  I love C.S. Lewis. I love how he reaches for simple truth and wisdom. I am also very fond of C.S. Forester's writings. He created a wonderful hero was is insecure, clumsy, and for someone whose career depends on frigates cannons, and oceanography, can't help getting sea sick. I turn to Forester for some of my tall ship references.

GMB:  Are the characters in your story based on people you know?

DLG:  Some of them, yes.

GMB:  Is there any part in writing you don’t like?

DLG:  I’m getting pretty tired of trying  to market.

GMB:  What are you currently working on?

DLG:  A historical fantasy called Cassandra’s Castle about a young teen who steps into an alternate world and finds herself in the middle of revolution.

GMB:  Do you have a set writing schedule or do you write when the fancy hits you?

DLG:  I write when I can. I would write all day if no one interrupted me or if I didn’t have to cook dinner. Or at least until my behind starts hurting! 

GMB:  What makes you, your writing unique?

DLG:  I come up with some pretty wild ideas. 

GMB:  I see ... and I knew your answer might hint a little about a wilder nature and I had some fun finding a little something that we can share with our Tired Barn Blog fans ... Now, "Is that really You?  *Grins*

DLG:  Perhaps ... I'm not telling. *grins back*

GMB:  Ah ha! Coy once again ... *Smiles*  Now then ... *still grinning* Do you have any writing rituals like a particular treat, good luck charm, etc? 

DLG:  Blueberries? Frozen blueberries are great for munching and replace the spice drops in a healthy way!

GMB:  I did not know that... *rubbing chin, pondering the potential*  When you aren’t writing, what would we find you doing?

DLG:  Painting. Or Fencing! 

GMB: Well engard!

DLG:  Not that kind of fencing... *sighs* ... Look ... I'm referring Fencing as in the Foil, epee and a little saber ... ;-)


GMB:  Oh right ...  Ahem ...  Sorry ... It was the rancher in me coming out ... *smiles sheepish*  Dianne, is music part of your writing process? If so, what do you listen to?

DLG:  I am inspired by music when I’m writing in my head, thinking about my stories. And when I’m painting. But when I’m at the computer I need silence pretty much.

GMB:  Why would someone like your book(s)?

DLG:  They’re fun, unpredictable and carry you into another world.

GMB:  Do you have any advice for the editing process?

DLG:  Get other eyes!

GMB:  Excellent advice...  excellent advice Dianne... 

GMB:  And Dianne I would like to *Thank You* for being such an interesting, albeit 'coy' guest today! Please share your bio and links with our Barn Blog Fans and so readers can connect with you.

DLG:  Be glad to ... My BIO includes:  She's been a painter all her life having started at the age of 12 under her mother's supervision. Her first private art lesson was with a sculptress in California. Excelling in art in school and on to college, her portfolio includes portraits, inspirational works, and plein air landscapes. She was the portrait painter for the Washington Renaissance Fantasy Fair for several years painting 20 minute oil paintings during the fair. She has just recently started illustrating books, beginning this endeavor with a 9' triptych of Stenhjaert the Dragon, the antagonist in Ian's Realm

Dianne is an active member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, and the National League of American Pen Women. Besides the Ian's Realm Saga (Deception Peak, The Dragon Shield, and Rubies and Robbers which will be released in 2013) she boasts authorship to four short stories titled A Tale of the Four Wizards Series which interweaves with the Saga. She writes for middle grade and young adults targeting boys and adventure loving girls, but adults are some of her most zealous fans of all Her writing definitely falls under the 'family friendly' category!

GMB:  And how about a little information for those all so important links for our Blog Fans and Readers...

Ian's Realm Trilogy
Deception Peak 
The Dragon Shield
Rubies and Robbers coming soon

Sequels
Cassandra's Castle To be released
The Diary of a Conjurer To be released

Short Stories A tale of the Four Wizards
Silvio
Meneka
Kaempie
Reuben

Publisher’s website: http://www.hydrapublications.com/shop/deception-peak/
Official book blog: http://dragontargeseries.blogspot.com/
Dragon Shield Trailer http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_c2rm6mGBrM
website http://gardnersart.com
Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/TheIansRealmSaga?ref=ts&fref=ts
Twitter https://twitter.com/DianneGardner
Author Central on Amazon
 http://www.amazon.com/Dianne-Lynn-Gardner/e/B0090LIYEO
The Dragon Shield on Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/Dragon-Shield-Dianne-Lynn-Gardner/dp/0615760457
Deception Peak http://amzn.com/B0090888WU
Silvio
http://amzn.com/B00A3WAA9G
Kaempie
http://amzn.com/B00AYZKIDK
Meneka
http://amzn.com/B00AHG460C
Reuben
http://amzn.com/B00B7RG72U
smashwords dp http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/260744
goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6473931.Dianne_Lynn_Gardner
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17304505-dragon-shield

GMB:  Dianne, its been a real pleasure ... I hope to see you in the 'Anything But a Tired Barn again soon ... Did you know I paint as well?

DLG: Well no--

GMB:  Check out the art hanging in the Tired Barn Gallery ... Might be some fun, perhaps some inspiration there to find...  Be Well My Friend, Take Care and Many Blessings...

GMB:  Hi Heidi, it is nice to have you in the "Anything But Tired Barn" ... And with two thumbs up no less ... Please tell us all about yourself. 

HNB:  I am a gung-ho, twenty-something gal who absolutely loves to write. I love the outdoors, my family, my religion, and being crazy. I also really love to watch basketball and football, yeah baby! I find that writing is my way to express myself. Without it I would pretty much explode.

GMB:  Where and/or how do you find the greatest inspiration? 


HNB:  Well ... I don’t know ... good question...

GMB:  They usually are... *Grinning* 

HNB:  Heh, heh ... I don't know that there is a specific answer for this, at least not in my case. I just sort of come up with ideas and have to write them. I guess I am inspired by my fellow indie authors and their success, and also by the success of my first book, Through the Paper Wall. Good question...

GMB:  What made you chose to write juvenile fiction, young adult fiction, fantasy in particular? 

HNB:  Though I have written one book that was general fiction, I tend to stick to fantasy. I adore fantasy, and always have. I love to get lost in different worlds, especially worlds that involve magic. I grew up reading fantasy, so it was just natural for me to write it. I can let my imagination expand more that way!

GMB:  I see ... Nice ... You seem sort of a bridge builder with words ... from here to fantasy and back... Is there any other genre you’d like to write? And, if so, why? 

HNB:  I would like to try historical fiction, at least once. I used to read that a lot, and I majored in history, so it would be fun to put my love of history and novels together and see what happens.

GMB: And again, I sense the theme of bridging the past with the now, perhaps the future... Which appears first when contemplating a new project: a character, the plot or the title? 

HNB:  Usually a plot, even if that just means a single scene, though for my newest book, Ontario, it was definitely the main character that came to me first.  
    
GMB:  What’s the hardest part of a novel for you to write: beginning, middle or end? Why? 

HNB:  The middle. I’m usually pretty good at starting a story, and I tend to know how I want it to end. It’s the messy bits in the middle that make up a great story, so you have to make sure the middle is sooo good!

GMB:  Has your own life influenced your novels? If so, how?

HNB:  Definitely. I don’t usually use stories or circumstances from my life, but I have definitely used names and based characters on specific people, including myself.

GMB:  Oh, oh ... I'd better watch out ... I know I'm already historic, but to end up in one of your fantasy plots... hmmmm  *winking* ...  Now who is your favorite character you’ve created? And, why? 

HNB:  Oh man, that’s a toughie! Probably Austin, the main character’s love interest in Ontario. He’s drop dead gorgeous and so intriguing, and yes, I do have a crush on him. Probably always will. My future husband will just have to deal with it.

GMB:  And I'm sure you 'future husband' will appreciate the warning *grinning, winking* ... So tell us about your newest release ... perhaps a little more about Austin... 

HNB:  Ontario was released April 29th. The story follows a girl by the name of Ontario, who lost her father and was abandoned by her mother. Left with her older brother as her guardian she faces her senior year of high school feeling like she can’t trust anyone anymore and that she is only a burden to her brother. Eventually she begins working at the local diner and while there, working with the amazing people there, she comes to learn that she can still trust and love. 

GMB:  Nice ... I get a feel your work is relationships based ... I write a lot about relationships as well ... It is very rewarding ... Now, if I was a publisher, I believe my first question would be, “Why were you chosen to write this story?”  How would you respond to this inquisitive, hypothetical publisher? 

HNB:  Ontario is, in many ways, me. I feel like Ontario is having me tell her story so that I can reveal some things about myself without coming right out and saying them.

GMB:  Which do you prefer a great hero or a great villain?  Why don’t you name one of each… 

HNB:  Ooh . . . well, I think you need to have both, really. Though, I have always wanted to play the villain if I was ever in a movie. Hmm, to name one of both . . . that’s an awfully good question. Okay, a great villain – Beloved, from Bruce Coville’s Unicorn Chronicles series. Wooh, she’s good. And a good hero? Let’s go with . . . Abby, from Lisa Mangum’s Hourglass Door Trilogy.

GMB:  Interesting ... Tell us Heidi, what is your favorite movie? And why?  What is NOT your favorite movie? 

HNB:  Well, that certainly changes from time to time...

GMB:  for me too...

HNB:  ...but I think currently my favorite movie is Wreck-it Ralph, because it is family friendly, funny, dramatic, emotional, and just plain awesome. Plus, Owl City does the end credits song, which always makes a movie better! What is NOT my favorite movie: any of the newer Star Wars movies. Gag.

GMB:  Now Heidi, you ready for a biggy?  Tell us out here in the Blogs Sphere ... If you could be anyone in the world, space, and designated realm, who would it be? And why? 

HNB:  Honestly, I would be me. I know, I know, that probably sounds really lame, but it’s true. I love being me. BUT, if you’re going to make me pick somebody else . . . 

GMB:  Not making you ... *smirks*

HNB:  Peter Pan. No lie. I've always wanted to be him.

GMB:  'Petta' ... 'Petta Pan' ... ?  Now that I did not see coming ... I mean Peter Pan flying into the Barn  on that question? ... Now where do you and Peter see your writing career in the next five to ten years? 

HNB:  Hopefully I will be a bestselling author. That would be cool. I would love for writing to be my only occupation, besides being a mother. A snazzy website is a must! That sounds absolutely perfect.

GMB:  And where can we learn more about you bridgeable with words, about you and Ontario?

HNB:  You can find me at my website, http://heidinicolebird.blogspot.com

GMB:  How about sharing a little from Ontario? Will you read for us?

HNB:  Sure ...  

“Don’t worry, Ontario, I’ll never leave you. You will always have me here to protect you and your brother.” 

Those words from a childhood memory would haunt Ontario Stratton for the rest of her life. Losing her father had been difficult enough, but her life would change even more drastically at the beginning of her senior year of high school. Only weeks into the school year Mrs. Stratton abandons her two children for a more carefree way of living. Suddenly thrown into a very different life, Ontario clings to her brother Eddy, her new legal guardian, and to no one else. Could she trust anyone anymore? Even her best friend isn’t there for her. . .

In order to feel like less of a burden on her brother, Ontario gets a job at the local fifties-style diner. It is there that she meets her new “family,” including the oh-so-intriguing Austin, the only one who can help her truly heal. In time, Ontario discovers that Austin has his own demons, and that he needs her just as much as she needs him. Some things in Ontario’s life begin to come together again, but others continue to fall apart. Though her world seems to be breaking, she is introduced to a kind of happiness she has never known before, and her new found friends show her that maybe, just maybe, she can learn to love again.

GMB:  Sounds Great! And, where can we find and purchase Ontario?

HNB:  Thank You for asking Mitch ... the Purchase Links for Ontario are listed below:

Paperback                                       Kindle Store

Ontario on Goodreads

GMB:  Well Heidi it was wonderful to learn about your passion for building bridges with words in this "Anything But Tired Old Barn". We hope you come and visit again real soon.

HNB:  You are welcome Mitch ... Enjoyed our visit and look forward to writing more and developing a following of readers who will appreciate what I do with words.

GMB:  Welcome to my  'Anything But Tired Barn' DeEtte Beckstead-Anderton ... Welcome to the place where I interview authors and friends ...  I've really been looking forward to visiting with you again ... Of course we know one another from Master Koda Select Publishing, but I want to make sure our Bog Fans know you are a superb author and editor who worked on my latest release from Master Koda... Thank You for being such a wonderful collaborator, friend, and now guest...  Now ... Let's see ... Today we're going to start off with a Zinger... Please describe yourself in one, superbly edited word ... *grinning mischievous*. 

DB:  Oh Mitch ... I guess the one word would be Unique. I asked my friends on Facebook to help me with this one. The best answer that came up was “unique” because there is only one me!

GMB: And Zinger number two ... What "unique" super power would you like to have? 

DB:  If I had a superpower, I would like it to be the ability to make the lives of others a little brighter, to bring a smile to the face of a sick child, to bring comfort to someone's last days.

GMB:  Now that is incredible DeEtte... *Smiles* Your latest release has continued to receive glorious reviews and is so well received... Tell us, what is the title of your newest release? 

DB:  Victory is my newest release. It came out in December 2012.

GMB: And I have read and thoroughly enjoyed this work ... I've been curious though, what compelled you to write this book? 

DB:  When I was writing for NaNo in 2007, I started with a description of the day. The story moved on to the scene with the pigeon. It was just a few days after my real encounter with a pigeon who had crashed into the apartment roof, so that was added. The rest just grew from there. 

GMB:  Oh the creative spirit ... We never know where, when it will provide for a wonderful story such as Victory ... Now what kind of books do you read for pleasure?

DB:  My favorites to read for pleasure are classics like Pride and Prejudice, Moby Dick, Beowulf, Canterbury Tales, Narnia, and LOTR. I also like historical fiction. I do not read erotica, or books with extreme violence or profanity. 

GMB:  And it shows in what you enjoy writing as well ... I've noticed that you are indeed an inspiration to many many people in your life, including Blog Fans ... But I have to ask DeEtte, what do you do to keep yourself going when you aren’t necessarily motivated to write, a phenomenon I am sure all writers deal with sometimes? 

DB:  If I have to write when I am not motivated, I usually write a description of something, the room I am in, something outside, a place I have been. That often helps me get going.

GMB:  Which comes first the chicken or the egg… I mean the plot or the characters?

DB:  Usually the characters come first. With Victory, I started with the description of the town itself. It was modeled after a small town I lived in for three years. 

GMB:  And a beautiful Town at that ... And when you set your characters do you use character bios or sketches or bubbles ... Do your characters just land on the page?

DB:  My characters just land on the page. Some are based on people I know, but I haven't used character bios or sketches in my serious writing. I suppose that I do a bio in my mind before I write the story, but I don't intentionally do that.

GMB:  How old were you when you finished your first book?

DB:  I finished the initial writing writing of Victory in November of 2007, so I was about 5 ½ years younger than I am now!

GMB:  And you are how old ...? (just kidding) ... *grinning mischievous again*  How long did it take you to write Victory?

DB:  Since Victory was my NaNoWriMo project, I wrote it in about 28 days. Of course, that doesn't include the years it sat on my computer, or the time spent editing and getting it ready for publication!

GMB:  If you could do everything over (writing your book, or publishing, etc.) would you change anything?

DB:  I think I would get it published sooner. Victory sat untouched for over four years before I thought about publishing it. 

GMB:  I know the feeling ... And when you aren’t writing, what would we find you doing?

DB:  Crocheting, watching old movies, being with my kids and grand-kids  reading...or maybe taking in a museum or concert!

GMB:  Ahhhh .. very nice ... Is music part of your writing process? If so, what do you listen to?

DB:  I like to listen to classical music or contemporary Christian music when I write. 

GMB:  Now going back to your choice of the word 'Unique' to describe yourself, tell us, Have you ever had a moment, even if it was a split second when someone noticed you for the unique person you are or complemented you on a job well done? Do you remember what that feels like in your heart?

DB:  First of all, I must say that my family, for the most part, are quiet, private people. We love each other dearly, and appreciate the successes of each other. We just don't usually do it publicly.

When The Christmas Visitors was first published, my kids were happy for me, some more than others. A few weeks later Victory came out. None had read the dedication page for Victory in which each of them was mentioned. I hadn't told them about that. A few days after Victory's publication, my older son, Jesse, posted on our family group site about my books. He posted the Amazon page showing The Christmas Visitors at #41 in its category. I rarely reply on the family site since my ex-husband and his wife are also in that group. I was surprised when Jess shared that my books were doing well. He was so excited and happy for me. He is the one who actually got me to try NaNo back in 2007, which was when Victory was written. The biggest surprise was a positive reply from my ex-husband. I didn't care so much that he replied, but I felt great that my accomplishment was so important to my son that he would post that. Having my family excited for me, and sharing my books, means so much to me.

GMB:  That is so wonderful ... It is always a Blessing when our writing leads to stronger relationships and brings out conversation in others that may not have occurred ... DeEtte, Thank You ... Many Thanks for being my guest today ... and such a great guest! Would you mind sharing your bio and links where our Bogg Fans can, and continue to connect with you and find your books?

DB:  Sure Mitch, Thanks for asking ... As an Author and Blogger, I Beckstead started writing in 2007 when my son challenged me to get involved in the National Novel Writing Month, known by the acronym, NaNoWriMo. The manuscript sat untouched with several others until January of 2012 when a good friend encouraged me to seek publication. The Christmas Visitors is my first published short story, and my current novel, Victory is also my second.

I spent much of my childhood playing the piano, clarinet, and guitar, reading, and making up stories. I was active in Girl Scouts, which gave me a  variety of experiences. While in college, I  was on the University of Utah Synchronized Swim team, and taught winter camping and survival skills for Girl Scouts. I have spent many years working with people with disabilities.

Originally from the state of Utah, I currently live in New England where I write full time and work on the editing team of Master Koda Select Publishing. My other interests include swimming, crocheting, reading, traveling, history, and my grandchildren. In addition, as a devoted mother of six and grandmother of twelve I have been a concerned participant in dog rescue services for many years.   You can find me on the social networks using the following information:

Blog: http://deetteanderton.wordpress.com 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DeEtteBecksteadAuthor       

Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/DeEtte-Beckstead/e/B00ADDW94Y/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1 

AuthorsdB page: http://www.authorsdb.com/authors-directory/66-deette-beckstead 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DBAnderton  

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2207218-deette-beckstead 

GMB:  Cheers DeEtte and again, Thank You for being my Guest today ... I hope all remains strong with the writing and I can tall everyone, it is truly a pleasure to have such a wonderful and 'unique author, collegue and friend to work with and with whom I throughout enjoy getting to know better as an friend, author and just a great person doing great things... Bye for now DeEtte...

GMB: Welcome Mandy Eve-Barnett from Strathcona .... Welcome to the 'Anything But a Tired Barn'.  Being a Fellow Member of the 'Writers Foundation of Strathcona County' I wanted to congratulate you regarding the recent and most successful Writers' Conference put on by the Foundation...  Tell us about yourself... about this recent effort...

MEB:  The hard question first, I see. Yes, with another successful Conference under our belts we can breath a sigh of relief…for a short while anyway!  I was born in South Africa to parents working as pathologists for a mining company.  We returned to England where I lived most of my childhood and adult life. In 2007 I hopped over the ‘pond’ to come and live in Alberta.  I have always been creative, partaking in painting, sculpture, drawing and textiles, you name it I’ve tried it. With a promise to myself to find a new creative outlet once my family and I were settled in our new country, I visited the local library. With a handful of leaflets I spied a white board detailing a writers group meeting and as they say there was no looking back. In less than four years I have published two books, created other three novels, written for online websites and newspapers, participated in three NaNoWriMo challenges and became the secretary of The Writers Foundation of Strathcona County. In short I am totally obsessed with my writing.

GMB:  Where and/or how do you find the greatest inspiration?

MEB:  Inspiration comes from everywhere - an overheard conversation, people watching, a photograph or even a sentence.

GMB:  You seem to be writing Fantasy, some Adult Fantasy  what has you choosing to write in genre in particular?

MEB:  I don’t limit myself to one genre. If possible I would like to explore each one if only once to say I’ve done that! So far I have written children’s stories, an adult fantasy, speculative fiction and a romance.

GMB:  Is there any other genre more than others, if so, why?

MEB:  At the moment I am toying with creating a horror but as yet my muse hasn’t ‘spoken’. My only reservation is, will it be good enough. As a Stephen King fan I know I have big boots to fill.

GMB:  Toying with horror ... Now there is a bit of imagery working there... Which appears first when contemplating a new project: a character, the plot or the title?

MEB:  When I really thought about this I realized the plot is primarily my starting point. A ‘what if’ scenario I place my characters into and then see what they do with it.

GMB:  So you already have characters made, and then seek to place them in a plot ...  I've never thought of having an inventory of characters on stand-by ... That is very interesting.  Tells us, what’s the hardest part of a novel for you to write: The beginning, middle or end? Tell us why?

MEB:  Honestly I don’t suffer with this phenomenon, as my writing is free flow. Once an idea emerges I just go with it. The muse speaks, my fingers type. It is in the editing process that I have more of a problem.

GMB:  Has your own life influenced your novels? If so, how?

MEB: Another interesting question and one I pondered for a while. My speculative fiction, 'Life in Slake Patch' was the result of a rant about family life, which morphed into the novel. 'The Twesome Loop' contains a reincarnation theme, which is an interest of mine. My current WIP, Ockleberries to the Rescue, is fundamentally generated from a lifelong love of all animal life.  So in short the answer is yes there are certainly ‘elements’ of me in my work.

GMB: Who is your favorite character, which you’ve created? And, why?

MEB:  The easy answer would be to say they all have elements I enjoyed but if pushed I would say Elviva from The Rython Kingdom. She has a great strength as well as hidden depths. I love how she manipulates (in a kind way) the troubadour Guillem.

GMB: If you could be anyone in the world, space, and designated realm, who would it be? And why?

MEB:  Joanne Woodward in 1958 when she met Paul Newman. I could love and live with my ‘perfect’ man for over 50 years.

GMB:  Tell us about your newest release.

MEB:  My e-book adult fantasy, The Rython Kingdom is set in medieval England and follows a famed troubadour, Guillem Ruet to the King’s court. He is unaware he has been bewitchment by a vengeful witch, whose tale he will relay in all innocence and release her from her confinement. Once at the King's court Guillem discovers the true nature of a servant and is aided by an old crone and her beautiful granddaughter, both of whom have their own secrets. Guillem worried if his tried and tested tales would be worthy of the King’s court. As he succumbed to sleep an image of his campfire on that particular night appeared. He remembered looking deep into the flames as a rabbit cooked – his eyes transfixed by the flickering orange flames, but now, while semi conscious, he recalled that they had turned blue in hue and he had been lost in a far away land. He had dreamt of blue flames rising, which twisted and spiraled into images of a witch and a horrendous beast. Strange and bewitching but a marvelous tale had been revealed to him as so many pictures in his mind that night.

GMB:  So Guillem is an unwitting pawn in a witch’s vengeful plan, reciting a tale, which will unleash the witch, Malgraf and her son resulting in havoc and murder. 

MEB:  Yes, the creative tension derives from whether Guillem can be stopped in time... 

GMB:  If I was a publisher, I believe my first question would be, “Why were you chosen to write this story?”  How would you respond to the inquisitive publisher?

MEB:  I believe everyone wishes to escape real life from time to time. Surrounding ourselves in an imaginary world enables our subconscious mind to solve our own problems. The conflicts within The Rython Kingdom are metaphors for many instances we find ourselves in. I feel my story can entertain but also aid resolution for my readers.

GMB:  Can you read an excerpt for us:

MEB:  Sure, I'll read from the scene where Guillem plays his audience as the fine troubadour he was, Guillem changed the story’s location to have them hear of Lord Elros’ adventure far away from his ladylove in the mountains.

While his lady considered fabrics, Lord Elros and his troop made good time across the plain to the forest edge. As the light faded under a crescent moon, he commanded they set up camp. With their horse’s fed and tethered and a hot stew filling their bellies, the men talked around the campfire. Elros walked to the edge of the tree line, carrying a lantern. With a glance about him to ensure he was alone he pulled an aged parchment from his tunic and studied it by the dim light. Eleanor had told him she was certain the map showed a route to the witch’s lair. It revealed many traps along the path but with Eleanor’s instructions, Elros was certain they would reach their destination. He would have to be precise in his directions to his men to ensure they followed the trail in line with the seer’s commands. The sorceress had charmed parts of the forest flora and fauna and many travelers had succumbed to the enchantments with the loss of their life. Elros studied the twisting trails and made mental notes of the many hazards marked with black spots.

As questioning glances were traded in the great hall, Stephen huddled close to his mother comforted by her coldness.

 “Your concealing spell has kept my true identity disguised but, at times, I sense the intensity of my eyes break through.”

 “Keep your head low and pretend to ingratiate yourself.  Our time is almost upon us. Temper your anxiousness, my son.”

 “Yes, mother – magnificence is ours in a few short hours - a century of waiting over.”

 Blue threads emitted from the witch’s fingers and encased the beast – it twisted and reformed into the human form it so despised, whimpering as it was enclosed in the restrictive shape. 

 “You are truly hideous…”

 The witch cackled as her spawn screeched, filling the air around them. Crawling, slithering creatures fled in every direction as the noise sent waves of malevolence outward. The thing called Stephen hobbled back through the veil. Panic gripped the beast as it noticed the twilight. Too long spent within his mother’s lands – time slowed when contained therein. He would have to travel swiftly to the castle. Glancing back and forth to ensure he was unobserved, Stephen floated several inches above the ground through the copse and gardens to the castle walls. Another sly peek confirmed he was alone. He pushed a protruding flint inward. A grinding of stone upon stone echoed along a hidden passage. Free to fly within its confines, Stephen travelled swiftly to a concealed panel in the servant’s quarters. 

 After making a few adjustments to his tunic and breeches, he made his way to the great hall where he found the troubadour regaling the tale in front of an engaged audience. Stephen stood in the shadows momentarily then, aware of eyes upon him, he went about his tasks.

GMB: Marvelous, Thank You for the Read ...   Where do you see your writing career in the next five to ten years?MEB:  If I can keep up the momentum of the past three years I will be more than happy! In such a short time, I have had a children’s print book and an e-book published. Written three novels and one novella, written numerous articles for online websites, magazines and the local newspaper. As well as collaborated to create the local council’s Vision Statement. Successfully completed three NaNoWriMo challenges and become the secretary of The Writers Foundation of Strathcona County. My current projects include building my freelance portfolio and completing another novel.  If I can support my creative writing completely by paying freelance work in ten years I will have my dream.

GMB:  Which do you prefer a great hero or a great villain?  Why don’t you name one of each…

MEB:  I love great villains. Darth Vader is a favorite with absolute power over other beings physical and mental capacities. Yes I loved JR Ewing as well. Sickly sweet good guys just don’t appeal. My favorite hero was Harper, played by Paul Newman (swoon) he was not your classic hero type but did his utmost to resolve the situation he found himself embroiled in. 

GMB:  What is your favorite movie? And why?  What is NOT your favorite movie?

MEB:  Wow – hard question, yet again. I have an eclectic taste in movies from Thelma & Louise to Lord of the Rings to Toy Story.  I loved The Goodbye Girl with Richard Dreyfuss but Same Time Next Year with Alan Alda has to be top. The worse movie has to be The Shining – NOT because of the story, a Stephen King novel or Jack Nicholson’s performance but because Shelley Duvall was absolutely dreadful in it and spoilt the whole thing.

GMB:  So where do we find you, you purchase links?

MEB:  My Website is:  http://mandyevebarnett.com/ and my Purchase Links include:  

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/214247

http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Rython-Kingdom-ebook/dp/B00AUBP2SO/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1365643901&sr=1-1&keywords=rython+kingdom

http://www.amazon.ca/The-Rython-Kingdom-ebook/dp/B00AUBP2SO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1365643944&sr=8-1&keywords=the+rython+kingdom

Publisher Link:  http://www.dreamwritepublishing.ca/

GMB:  And we can find you Blog at...?

MEB:  http://mandyevebarnett.com/

GMB:  Well Thank You for visiting with us here in the 'Anything But a Tired Barn' ... We certainly enjoyed having you here and to learn more about you and your recent projects and releases...

MEB:  And thank you for hosting me Mitch... We hope to see you at the next Writer's Foundation meeting ...

GMB:  Take Care, Be Well... Cheers to Mandy from Strathcona...

GMB:  Hey Brenda Perlin! Fellow Master Koda Select Publishing author and SO-CAL Buddy. Welcome! How’s things in Southern California?

BP:     "Hey" yourself. When you getting back to The Sun Mitch?

GMB:  Not soon, enough … I miss San Diego, but for now, the Sun is going to have to wait. How about sharing a little for all to--?

BP”     Born in Los Angeles, California in the Sixties I studied acting and photography after high school. My true passion ignited when I became interested in health and fitness and became a fitness instructor. I started writing ‘Home Wrecker’ when I was twenty-nine, during a time when I was getting married. I put the story down shortly after the wedding and did not pick it back up until she was forty-six and going through a divorce. I hang out in Orange County, California.

GMB:  Gee Brenda … What we have to go through to write a book these days...  *Smirks* So … ‘Home Wrecker’, your new Book … The Release is when ...? Is it Launching soon? Rumor has it Monday?

BP:     Yes, Monday, but how about welcoming your Blogger fans out there?

GMB:  Well sure … *Smiles*  So "Hey and Welcome Bloggers Fans”. *Smiles*  Now … getting back to-- 

BP:     I'm thinking we should get out of this Barn and--

GMB:  You want to go to the Route 66 Diner for a coffee?

BP:     Naw ... I'm thinking of something a little more ... well you know...? 'More'.

GMB:  Well okay ... Let's get to where there is 'More'... *grinning*  

BP:      Mitch, is there somewhere you prefer to be seated?

GMB:  Oh Brenda you just think you are so KEWL!

BP:      Oh look… *smirks* You just lost your window table. Now, I do not know whether to put you there, or way over there… or perhaps over … maybe under there…

GMB:   Now wait a minute … How am I supposed to get you talking about your upcoming Book Release for ‘Home Wrecker’, if you are stuffing me in a back corner and under…?

BP:      Oh, why ‘Yes’ … the Book Launch … I am hosting a Facebook Party, along with Kim Mutch Emerson of Master Koda Select Publishing and--

GMB:   A Facebook Book Release Party right alongside your Publisher?

BP:     Yes ... A team effort from start to finish...

GMB:  And where will we find you … I mean the Book Release Party, You, Your Publisher, your Book and everything else that will be going on?

BP:      Well I already know you are going, so you know where to find it, but your Blogger Fans can find us using this link https://www.facebook.com/events/447180968707670/?notif_t=plan_user_joined

GMB:  And your Launch of ‘Home Wrecker’ is April 29, 2013 …

BP:      Why ‘Yes’ … Monday  April 29 … Thank you for reminding me … I almost forgot.  Now follow me my darling … Is this table way over there ... Now is that going to be satisfactory?

GMB:  Where? I can't see it yet.

BP:    Oh, its there...

GMB:  How about giving us a hint of what your new book ‘Home Wrecker’ is about, you know, while we're walking…

BP:      Oh a Walk 'n Talk... I like that ... Well now, let's see... ‘Home Wrecker’ is the first book in a three part series that follows the main character, Brooklyn throughout her childhood, adult life and then what seems like an “endless” journey towards redemption for her and her new love interest, Bo.

GMB:  A’right, sounds good and—?

BP:      And Brooklyn and Bo, each unhappily married to someone else, have to decide whether to stay with their spouses or give up everything for each other.

GMB:  Oh, now it is getting a bit dodgy-- I see … Is this the ‘Home Wrecker’ part?

BP:      And then it is about what would Brooklyn's husband and Bo’s soon-to-be ex-wife do to break them up?

GMB:  Wow … Sounds like Brook and Bo are getting after it, and then everyone is getting after Brook and Bo and—?

BP:      I guess you could say that … (a barely detectable *smirk*).

GMB:   You know Brenda I've had better tables... *winking*.

BP:      You have?

GMB:    Well sure, at least I'm pretty sure I guess... I still can't see much...

BP:       Oh it is there...

GMB:    So anyway ... You have this new book coming out ... ‘Home Wrecker’!  Now, I also hear you are going to host a little Cover Reveal for ‘Home Wrecker’ sometime soon?

BP:      Why ‘Yes’ … I am going to play around with the Cover this week … You want to peek?

GMB:   Sure, and ‘Where is it exactly?’

BP:      If I can ever decide on the final formatting it will be available here first …. Right now … Then on Amazon.com on April 29th.

GMB:  No … nobody told me?

BP:      No one can find you with the kind of tables you get ... You ever think of getting an Agent or something?

GMB:   Shoot Brenda, they're the ones always saying they can't find me...

BP:      So sorry Mitch... *flips hair* Well anyway, here is the Cover for my new book 'Home Wrecker' … *Grinning*... Would you like to see a menu?

GMB:  Pass on the menu ... I'm more interested in your new Cover. Now this looks Great! I love the green eyes ... is she taunting?

BP:    You tell me.

GMB   Yes, well ... So tell us, ‘Where were you hiding this wonderful effort’?

BP:      With a very bad publisher, but now things are looking up.

GMB:   No, no that is not what I meant... Well, and of course we all know things are looking up. Now, where is it going to be?

BP:      What? We still talking about the Cover?

GMB:   Sure, if you want… (a detectable *smirk*).

BP:      Okay, well the Cover will hopefully be on the Amazon bestseller list … Right?

GMB:   And hopefully with your great story behind it … *grinning* You bet! 

BP:      And that is what we call a newly published book… Thank you so much for your support!

GMB:    And Thank You for lousy tables that I can always count on... *wink wink* ... Hey, at least they know where to find me now...

BP:      And everyone knows where to find my new book *Smiles* (and then gets serious again).  Here's your table Mitch ... I hope you like it...

GMB:   How can I not ... You going to sit and visit with me some more, about your new book?

BP:      Nope, gotta' go... You see that guy at the table by the window way over there...?

GMB:   Well yea...

BP:       I think that's my Agent... but its too far ... Can't see for sure ... Anyhooo ... Gotta' run, catch you later ... *Kiss Kiss Chow*.

GMB:  Yes and congratulations Brenda. I want to thank you for dropping by and we do truly wish you the best with your forthcoming Book Release and Launch for 'Home Wrecker'.

BP:    You're welcome.

GMB:   Well, and Thank You for the Hollywood Experience Brenda ... It was good to see you again ... Oh and thanks for the table, cover peek and letting us know a little about your new book ... 

BP:     Sure, anytime ... Later ... I ;'Kissed Kissed' you already ... Right?

GMB:   Yes, *Sitting* *Sighing* *lamenting*  And "Yes" my Blogger Friends, this was pretty much the latest version of the GMB Hollywood Experience ... You will find, and be able to follow Brenda Perlin (perhaps more closely than me) and, her new Book Release using the contact information below. Hope you enjoyed meeting Brenda (in the satiric role of Hollywood mover and shaker) and wish everyone a great read, good health and the best of wellness...

GOODREADS http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15825106-home-wrecker

WEBSITE http://www.homewreckerthebook.com

FACEBOOK: HOME WRECKER https://www.facebook.com/HomeWreckertheBook

FACEBOOK: HOME WRECKER: THE BROOKLYN AND BO CHRONICLES https://www.facebook.com/HomeWreckerTheBrooklynandBoChronicles

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
http://www.amazon.com/Brenda-Perlin/e/B0088M542Q/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1359823060&sr=8-1

TWITTER
https://twitter.com/HomeWreckerbook

8 Slices of cake
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/8-slices-of-cake-melanie-toye/1114675541

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/281812

LinkedIn
http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=228478303&trk=tab_pro

FORTHCOMING INTERVIEW for the Week of May 1, 2013: 
G. Mitchell Baker Interviews DeEtte Anderton, Christian Values Author and Friend, Friend and indeed a Wonderful Friend.

GMB   This week, I am welcoming Author and Friend Extraordinaire, Jennifer Loiske to the Barn. Born in Lebanon, Jennifer has lived in Finland almost all of her life.  From my perspective, it all sounds like a wonderful life experience you can learn more about not only from this Interview, but from Jennifer’s beautiful website as well.  Welcome Jennifer, how are you?

JL        Greetings from Finland Mitch, it is nice to be here in The Barn. Is it safe?

GMB   Oh it is a little tired, leans a little, but I think it will hold up long enough for you to share a little about yourself, the writer, and author.  If not, then we can just head on to the Route 66 Diner and have a coffee as well.  Tell us a little more about yourself.

JL        I am an author of paranormal romance and paranormal stories. I live in Finland with my ever so patient family who let me fulfill my dream as a writer. I have written three different series, SHAPE SHIFTER series, IMMORTAL BLOOD series, and MCLEAN TWINS series, along with couple of stories for different anthologies. Four of my books are on Amazon worldwide. I also write articles to the magazines, keep a blog, and I am a part of the team that makes Epilepsy Finland magazine. I’m also very keen on charity work and a big part of my royalties go to the charity; mainly to help families with epileptic children but also to the epilepsy units in the hospitals. I have also just published a charity book (all profits go to charity), THE TALES OF AN OLD WIZARD with four other writers.

GMB   Wow Jennifer, I only knew of some of you work. Tell us, where, how do you find your greatest inspiration?

JL        In reverie. Just before, I wake up or fall asleep… However, not all of my inspiration comes in the quietest moments of the day. Sometimes all it takes is a half-heard word, something I see…a person, something from the nature, a movie…

GMB   And the direction your inspiration tends to take you is the paranormal genre? 

JL        My love for all paranormal (Well, except for ghosts. They scare the crap out of me!). I love paranormal romance stories and my appetite for them is bottomless. So I guess it was only natural for me to start writing about them, too. Besides, all the choices are mine now, so I can create the kind of stories I’d like to read and only hope that someone else would like to read them, too.

GMB   Nice, and I know of your keen interest in the paranormal because that is how we met … You were kind enough to review my latest paranormal effort. "Thank You".  Now, is there any other genre you like to write?  If there is, why do you like to write in the second genre?

JL        Children’s literature. I wouldn’t be the person I am now without all those wonderful stories that I read when I was a kid. I actually have written a book for kids but it’s still in my bottom drawer…

GMB   Well I’m thinking we are going to have to get it out of that drawer soon, tell us, which appears first, when you are contemplating a new project: a character, the plot or the title?

JL        This is a tough question! Hmmm… It varies but mostly a character. Usually the title comes after the story is ready or along the way when I’m writing but it has happened once that the title was the first thing that popped into my mind and kept nagging so hard that I simply had to create a story around that title.

GMB   I know what you mean … Sometimes the title comes fast for me too, then the expectations…  Now, what is the hardest part of a novel for you to write, the beginning, middle, or the end?

JL        Middle! Oh, how I hate those middle chapters! I always know how the story starts and the end is quite clear too but how to get there…that’s the tricky part.

GMB   I’m curious … With so much life experience, has your own life influenced your novels? 

JL        Yes. I’ve put all my pain and frustration about my child’s illness into my SHAPE SHIFTER series. There are a lot of parts that are true, especially the facts about epilepsy and the descriptions of the seizures. I really want to spread some epilepsy awareness to my readers and hopefully open their eyes to see that a person with a disorder can be a hero too!

GMB   And Thank You for sharing … Can you also share with us who is your favorite character, of those you have created?

JL        Samantha Green from the book, CLUB NUMBER FIVE. She has a very curious mind that sometimes takes her into some difficult situations. She’s brave and even if her sudden becoming of vampire threw her into a strange world she won’t let anything to stop her from protecting her friends and family. She’s also very sassy and does not let steaming boys with hard abbs to control her. Not that she always has a choice…

GMB   And I have read CLUB NUMBER FIVE and Loved it … It is a book I would hope my Teenage daughter would read because the Sam Green character in a teenage way chooses wisely even though the circumstances often twist in youthful struggles.  Can you also tell us about your newest release?

JL        My latest release is a paranormal story called BLACK DIAMOND for teen/YA readers. It tells about twelve-year-old Shannon McLean whose life has suddenly turned upside down. She has to move from Boston to England’s countryside and live with her father she does not know. Her father turns out to be some kind of a monster, not to mention his male servant. The house she’s supposed to live is not a castle but an old manor with hidden passages and stolen spirits. She also finds her other half and learns magical things about herself and her family she only dreamt about when she was a little.

GMB   Now this gets me thinking, let us suppose I was a publisher, and my question to you is “Why were you chosen to write this latest story?”  How would you respond to the inquisitive publisher?

JL        It all started from a birthday party invitation to England’s countryside. The minute I Googled the party venue and saw the pictures, my fingers started to tickle and I had to start writing. Endless green fields, old dry-stone walls, mysterious woods, huge stone manors…Yes, I lost my heart to Burford long before I actually visited it and I knew the idea of young witches and demons would haunt me until I’d give in and put it on the paper. One might say I was obsessed with the story, which I probably was as I used months studying about the witches, spells, Wiccan religion and even visited some shops whilst writing the story.

GMB   Ah ha … and as you write about the paranormal … Tell us, which do you prefer a great hero or a great villain?  Why don’t you name one of each…

JL        A great villain! No! A hero! Yaiks! I can’t decide but here they are… my hero: Aragorn (The Lord of The Rings) and a villain: Sylar (Heroes)

GMB   Well okay Jennifer, now what is your favorite movie? What is NOT your favorite movie?

JL        There are so many…but just to mention a few…well, The Lord of The Rings is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! Meet Joe Black, Notting Hill, Matrix… and then one of the worst movies I’ve ever seen…Love Guru.

GMB   Oh and Notting Hill has always been a movie I can watch as well … So … If you could be anyone in the world, space, and designated realm, who would it be?

JL        I’ve always wanted to be Modesty Blaise. How cool would it be to be rich and beautiful, go to the secret missions and be able to survive out of anything. Oh, and have Willie Garvin as my best friend!

GMB   Nice…very nice … Where do you see your writing career in the next five to ten years?

JL        Going up like a rocket I hope! And, hopefully I’ve finished all my three series and have some new interesting writing projects going on…

GMB   Well we are hoping the rocket is lifting off for you and that soon you will be looking down on this Anything But Tired Old Barn from about fifteen miles up.  Jennifer, it was nice to work with your again and we l certainly wish you the best of everything for your writing, your charity work and especially your Family.

JL        Thank You Mitch…

GMB   And to just summarize a little, we have your principal genre(s) as follows: (1) Paranormal; Teen/YA: BLACK DIAMOND, (2) Paranormal Romance; YA: IMMINENCE, SEDUCTION, and (3) Paranormal Romance; New Adults (age 18-24), CLUB NUMBER FIVE.

JL   Yes, and our readers can find my Website using the following Website Link: www.jenniferloiske.com 

GMB   Oh, and you've brought with you an excerpt from your latest release, BLACK DIAMOND?

JL        Yes, may I read it?

GMB    Please do Jennifer...

JL       “She ran upstairs, scared to death. If she had turned and looked behind she would’ve seen the pain in her father’s eyes and how beaten he looked, but she didn’t. She ran for her life, and when she reached her room she slammed the door behind her, turned the key in the lock, and hid in her bed. She pulled the blanket over her head and sat under it shaking and crying. What kind of place was this? And what was her dad? Not who but what!

“This is just a dream,” she whispered to herself. “Just a dream.”

She tried to calm herself down. She remembered a horror movie she had once watched with her best friend. Mom hadn’t known, of course. This place and these people were just like it. Maybe worse. This was not a movie. This was real and she was trapped. She wondered why Connor had allowed her to come there. He obviously didn’t want her there and for some reason was stuck with her now. But one thing was sure. She was not safe and she needed to get away. If she stayed, something terrible would happen. She was sure of that. Something beyond her imagination, and she didn’t want to find out what it was.

She lowered the blanket a little. She was still alone. No one had followed her and her room looked as white as it had before. There was no threat in there and she felt stupid. Maybe it was just her mind playing tricks with her.

“Now you are being stupid,” she whispered. This was not a trick. This was true.

She got up and tried the doorknob. It was still locked. She sat on the bed and glanced at the clock. It was 2 p.m. What in the world was she supposed to do for the rest of the day? She let her hand slide over the pillars on her amazing canopy bed. The wood felt smooth under her hands. It was such a shame they had painted the old bed white. She was sure that it would’ve been stunning in its natural oak color. Her hand stopped. She had felt something. Some kind of mark or engraving. She looked closer, searching for the mark. There it was. An upward-pointing triangle. What did it mean? Was it some kind of ancient symbol, or had it been made by someone that had been held in this room as a prisoner? How exciting! She forgot her fears and searched the other pillars…"

GMB   Thank You Jennifer. This excerpt conveys a moment of searching ... I always like the lead up to discovery ... Thank You for sharing a read with us Jennifer ... And, where can we find and continue to purchase your works?

JL        Yes, Thank You, my Purchase Links are: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=jennifer+loiske 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_15?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=jennifer+loiske&sprefix=jennifer+loiske%2Caps%2C224 

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/jennifer-loiske?store=allproducts&keyword=jennifer+loiske 

GMB   Wonderful and pretty cool too... Well Jennifer, I hear The Barn creaking a little and that tells us our time is running short.  I want to thank you for visiting with us here today and do wish you the best in all your endeavors.

JL        And thank you for opening up The Barn here and providing me the opportunity to share a little of who and what I am all about. The next time we'll have to make that trip to the Route 66 Diner.

GMB   Jennifer you are very, very welcome. Please keep us posted on the progress of your Rocket Launch from Finland will you?

JL        Yaiks … *laughing* … I sure will :-D

FORTHCOMING INTERVIEW for the Week of April 24, 2013: 
G. Mitchell Baker Interviews Brenda Perlin, Author and Friend about her NEW BOOK RELEASE from Master Koda Select Publishing.

GMB:  This week, I am welcoming Author and Friend, Native American Mystery Author, Joan Leslie Woodruff.  Before we start, I have to share with Blogger Fans and Friends that Joan’s positive influence is in large part why I so enjoy writing novels today… I want to take this opportunity to thank Joan for all her encouragement and mentorship through many years of writing and publication. *Thank You Joan*.

JLW:   No problem *Smiles* … You are welcome. 

GMB:  Tell us a little about yourself.

JLW: I am always changing, growing, and learning. My life’s had tragedies many could not recover from; but I look for the lessons. From suffering comes understanding. Understanding creates an arc in the learning curve. Rainbows are arcs, both joyous and spiritual.

GMB:  Recently, I visited your Author Website and found this wonderful quote by you … Mind if I share it here?

JLW:  Not at all…

GMB:  I just have to share this… Your quote reads, "You are born, and you will die, and for all that knowledge, you try to make life count somewhere in the middle. No day is more important. No day is less important. Each moment is equal as long as you are in it, and that’s the secret. A friend once told me, the best day you will ever have is the one you show up for.”

GMB:  Your quote is inspirational … The inspiration comes from a 'friend'… Please tell us more about where; perhaps how you continue to find your greatest inspiration?

JLW: My greatest inspiration came from the elders in my family, from my grandparents, aunts, and uncles, older cousins, and especially my parents and my brother.

GMB:  So wonderful, Joan thanks for sharing … And from your inspiration, what has brought you to choose to write suspense mysteries?

JLW:  Suspense mysteries are my favorite genre. I write them because that is the genre I read most often.

GMB:  When inspired, which appears first when contemplating a new project: a character, the plot, or perhaps the title?

JLW: Characters begin showing up in my life. I develop stories around the ones they tell me. When I get off their story-line, I get stuck. When I return to the story-line they provided, it flows easy.

GMB:  Indeed, I came across a review of your novel “Neighbors” (1993) ... it seems to speak to your approach for creating stories through your characters, and it shares so much more about your writing … I hope you don’t mind me sharing this review with our audience.

JLW:   No, not at all Mitch…

GMB:  This comment is about “Neighbors”, and seems to capture what is special about so much of Joan's writing in fiction… “The beauty of Woodruff’s novel is in the language. Rich metaphors decorate her descriptions, and conversations between characters twist interestingly with unusual, but believable, phrases and expressions. The tale is far from a comedy, but Woodruff imbues even ordinary scenes with a delightful wry humor.” Laura L. Klure, writer, Riverside, California.

JLW:   In fact, you have found a review from my dear friend, Laura L. Klure…

GMB:  Great! And perhaps you can share with us what may be the hardest part of a novel for you to write, the beginning, middle or end?

JLW:  The ‘middle’ is the most difficult because it means I am halfway. I like adventures. I especially enjoy the beginning and the ending. The middle isn’t always easy.

GMB:  Has your own life influenced your novels?

JLW:   All my novels grew from my life.

GMB:  Who is your favorite character in your stories, of the ones you have created?

JLW:  Mule is my favorite character. He appears in three of my novels. He is a listener. He has the best role in the story. His presence brings tranquility and kindness to the scenes.

GMB:  Tell us a little about your newest book release.

JLW:  My newest release is not fiction. As a therapist who has a heavy background in the sciences, I have always been suspicious of theory-based counseling. Neuroscience advances every day in leaps and bounds, and it is finally catching up with what I have known since I was a student: Our brain and our mind is programmed by us. 

GMB:  If I was a publisher, I believe my first question would be, “Why were you chosen to write this story?”  How would you respond to the inquisitive publisher?

JLW:  My response to a publisher asking why I was chosen to write a story is: I don’t see that I was chosen to write it. I believe I was burdened to write it. My stories are multi-layered, they open doors and close doors for the readers. I believe people are better for having read them.

GMB:  Which do you prefer, a great hero or a great villain?  Why don’t you name one of each…

JLW:  I prefer a great heroine. For instance, in ‘Ghost in the Rainbow’, the heroine is Myra, a woman with so many flaws, she doesn't even try to make excuses for herself. The villain is Beau Haggis, a serial killer.

GMB:  If you could be anyone in the world, space, and designated realm, who would it be? And why?

JLW:  I would be myself, because I am familiar with my path.

GMB:  Thank-you Joan for this wonderful interview, your sharing so that we may get to know more of you, and your writing.

JLW:  You are welcome Mitch!

GMB:  And, for our Blogger Fans and Friends, please know Joan Leslie Woodruff writes in the genre of medical, suspense mystery; suspense thriller and historical literary. More about Joan and her writing can be found at her website, http://joanlesliewoodruff.com

Book title(s) by Joan Leslie Woodruff, MEd, OTR, Native American Mystery Author  include: ‘Traditional Stories and Foods’ (1990); ‘Neighbors’ (1993); ‘The Shiloh Renewal’ (1998); ‘Ghost in the Rainbow’ (2002); ‘Wishes and Windmills’ (2003); ‘Polar Bears in the Kitchen’ (2009) and ‘Mind Games’ (2012). 

To acquire the available works of Joan Leslie Woodruff, she suggests that all her books (those still in print) are purchasable through her Website where you can select the bookstore (of your choice) button.

FORTHCOMING INTERVIEW for the Week of April 17, 2013: 
G. Mitchell Baker Interviews Jennifer Loiske, Young Adult Author and Friend from Finland.

GMB: For my inaugural interview I’d like to welcome intrepid Alberta writer - Linda Alberta to my blog.

LA: Thanks Mitch.  Let’s offer a warm welcome to your blogger fans too. 

GMB: First off, tell us about your writing career.

LA:  I’ve interviewed Canadian authors for eight-years.  Prior to that, I covered the music/entertainment scene for a number of memorable and cantankerous years. 

GMB: We’re having a little fun here.  Indeed, the book reviewer/music reviewer is being interviewed by me, the author.  Why did you agree to be the one interviewed?    

LA:  I’m curious about everything.  I’m curious about the process, the purpose and the limits of self-revelation.  Because I’m curious, I need to know how it feels to be interviewed.  I’m not one to leave digital footprints and I’m not a convert of social media cults.  That’s why talking about myself for this interview will be interesting.

GMB: We hope this will be fun for you.

LA:  Oh, it will be. 

GMB: You’re having more coffee?

LA:  It’s only my third espresso.    

GMB: If you’re ready, here is a question.  If you could interview anyone who would it be?

LA:  I’d interview bold and fascinating, comic book iconoclast – Gerard Way, just because he resonates authenticity and because he is a coffee fanatic.  I’d interview musician Jared Leto because he’s complicated. He is a genius of impression management. And, I’m recorded on YouTube, at his last Edmonton concert.

GMB: You’re on YouTube? 

LA:  I timed a vocal, “wahoo!” prior to “30 Seconds to Mars” playing a favourite song. This occurred when the room was silent for a few magical seconds.  Somebody was recording and I go back to YouTube to listen to that moment. 

GMB: But, was the room silent for …30 seconds?  Next question: did you attend music school?

LA: I started out as a singer/songwriter who studied jazz guitar at Edmonton’s Grant MacEwan.  I
love music.  I read compulsively.  I write from my gut.

GMB: When did you start work as a writer?

LA: In grade 10 I joined the school newspaper club and I interviewed everyone. After this, teachers were friendlier.  But they were also kind of careful about what they said to me. 

GMB: Did you date Billy Boyd (Pippin from Lord of the Rings)?

LA: That’s what people say.  When I interviewed Boyd for the Edmonton International Film Festival, I didn’t bring a recorder and I understood every tenth word he said. He speaks Scottish. 

In addition to being an unbelievably nice person who speaks very quickly, he shared that he worked as a book binder for seven-years. One of his jobs, was to assemble “Lord of the Rings” books.  Carl Jung has this theory about meaningful coincidences. 

GMB: Do you believe in synchronicity?

LA: Absolutely.  That’s why we met and why we’re doing this interview.

GMB: Who was your strangest interview?

LA: Musician Kelly Simpson used to wear a black cloak, paint a third eye on his forehead and sing songs that would scare the Hades out of other scary people - while shaking a goat skull on a stick.  I co-wrote a Halloween story about him.  For this story, we (myself, co-writer and band) met at the Edmonton pyramids after midnight and proceeded to his drive-way, where I tried to start a large cranky hearse.  Kelly was chanting and somebody said there were animal skulls buried in the backyard.  I believed it! 

GMB: What was your most fun story?

LA: One summer I created: The Linda Alberta Roll Pebble Roll Summer Limo Story with Junior Gone Wild.  For this traveling photo shoot of a story, we took a limo the size of a Tyrannosaurus Rex through an Edmonton McDonald’s drive-through, to order one burger.  Somebody made a sign that said “Don’t Look, We’re Not Famous,” my friend Lilly brought Mooky the stuffed snake and somebody tried to eat cake through a green monster mask.  The cake said “Roll Pebble Roll” but we almost didn’t roll.

GMB: Why?  What happened? 

LA: There was a momentous travel bill for this five-hour excursion that I had to pay, if the story wasn’t published. Being published was part of an advertising agreement I made with the limo company. I kept asking the publisher when this story would be printed.  It kept not being printed.  When it all transmogrified into a cover story, I relaxed.   It was good clean fun, except for the cake. 

GMB: Why do you enjoy interviewing people?

LA: It’s an opportunity to interact with fascinating people and I love to hear their stories.  I am relentlessly curious about people and life.  That’s why I’m always processing information.  I’m always learning something. 

GMB: Has there been one interview that influenced your life? 

LA: When people interact, it’s like introducing salt to a glass of water; the two substances can’t stay the same.  Everyone is influenced by everyone.  This is part of the joy of life and this is part of the complexity of life.  And whether life is a tragedy or a comedy is anyone’s guess.

GMB: You’ve interviewed authors for years.  When can we read one of your books?

LA:  I’m working on a futuristic story collection dedicated to event probabilities.  With one patron, I could finish this book.    

GMB:  Thank-you Linda, for this interview.  One final question: What are your thoughts on being interviewed?

LA:  It’s as much fun as three adjectives in one sentence.  Thanks Mitch!

END

FORTHCOMING Week of April 10, 2013: G. Mitchell Baker Interviews Joan Leslie Woodruff, Native American Mystery Author