Interview With Author Marla Stahl

Photo courtesy of Marla Stahl

By way of introduction, here is Marla Stahl’s bio.:

Children’s book author Marla Stahl is not a grandma (do grand-dogs count?), but she loves to have adventures just like the grandmas in her book, The Adventures of Grandma Charlotte!

She has studied foreign languages, plays the drums (which she learned later in life), and is a tour guide at a major-league baseball stadium. And yes, she’s even taken a ride in a hot air balloon, just like Grandma Charlotte!

Marla’s other children’s book titles include: Can Sugar Come Out to Play?, Lucy the Amazing Wonder Dog, Mason the Ambassadog (in both English and Spanish), Sugar Goes to the Dentist, Nutsy the White Squirrel and Tommy and the Messed Up Order, and her newest book, A School of Fish, which is both a story and a coloring book!

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Hello, Marla, welcome to Angel Kiss Publications. Thank you for agreeing to do this interview.

Thank you for having me.

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When did the writing bug ensnare you? 

Let’s go waaaaay back to my childhood in Queens, New York. My very favorite teacher was Mrs. Stella Rizzo for both 4th and 5th grade.

Every week she sent home a newsletter for our families that was filled with stories that we students wrote, plus puzzles and class news.

I was one of the most prolific writers in my class.

One of the moms sent me a note telling me how much she loved my stories and that she thought that one day I would be a famous author!

Well, I’m certainly not famous, but I have been writing and editing a lot during my career. 

Is writing your full-time profession? 

No, although I did write a lot throughout my career in various roles. 

How long have you been writing? 

I began writing children’s books in 2015.

Image courtesy of Marla Stahl

How many published books have you written? 

My books are self-published. I have written 9 of them (9.5 if you count the one that was translated into Spanish!) 😉  

Which genres do you write?

Children’s books, although one of them is for adults or young adults—a compilation of blog entries that I began writing in 2012 or so. 

What do you find most challenging writing for these genres? 

The easy part for both types of books are that they are written from the heart, inspired by real-life events. Something ignites a spark, and the book pretty much writes itself! The challenging part of being self-published is marketing. 

What are you working on now?

Nothing in the works at the moment.

Where do you find inspiration for your characters?

In real life—my own life, from pets and people I love.

Occasionally someone asks me to write something for them, and I get inspiration from the background they provide and their passion for the characters.

It’s especially fun when I get to actually meet one of those characters in real life! 

Image courtesy of Marla Stahl

What has been your most rewarding experience since publishing your work? 

Definitely seeing kids (and adults) loving my books. I get photos and videos of kids hugging the books, being read to in a grandparent’s lap… that sort of thing.

They warm my heart! I also enjoy reading to school kids. But the most rewarding time was after releasing a book that was written about my mom’s best friend.

Sadly, my book supply was not shipped in time to present one to her; she passed away just days before my box of books arrived—in fact, it arrived on what would have been her birthday.

But I took several to her funeral, autographed, and gave them to her relatives, and when it was my turn to speak about her, I read the book aloud.

They all read along in their copies, smiling and crying simultaneously, and told me afterwards how special that was and that I perfectly described her amazing life. It is something that will forever be in my heart.

I also loved when, at a book signing event, a young man walked by, recognized me, backed up, and came over to tell me, “I remember you from last year! My little sister still asks me to read your book to her!” 

What advice would you give to authors just starting out?

Don’t give up! You may never get that “big break” (I’m still waiting!) but keep your goals in mind.

Have you made your readers happy? Have you taught them something valuable?

Sometimes it’s not all about winning awards or making money — it’s about making a difference. (Although the money is definitely an added benefit!)

Image courtesy of Marla Stahl

Is there anything else you’d like your readers to know about you?

Yes! I give part of my book proceeds to support animal rescue—and sometimes to people-oriented efforts as well.

A purchase helps me to help others. And that makes my heart happy. 

What message are you sharing in your books?

Oh, so many!

First and foremost, kindness to animals; the concept of animal rescue; the love of reading; the love of learning; philanthropy (through my sales donations); and diversity, as most ( but not all ) of my human characters have a somewhat neutral appearance so as to let the readers perhaps see themselves, no matter who they are.

One of my stars is a dog who uses a wheelchair, and he has the most important job in his animal sanctuary—and was actually featured on a TV show!

I also incorporate humor (both for the kids and to keep the adults interested). My books have also inspired kids to explore using their imagination. 

What are your favorite books?

Whichever one I am reading! I love Jan Karon books, autobiographies, and of course, cute books about animals.

When you’re not writing where can we find you?.

Walking with my dog out in nature or sitting on our porch, playing musical instruments and singing, or at a baseball stadium.

In the evenings, watching HGTV! 

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A movie producer wants to turn your book into a movie, and you get to make a cameo. What would you do in the movie?

Hmm… I’d be a fellow traveler with my character, Grandma Charlotte, who in real life went all over the world doing good things for animals and people.

I would want to be in the scene where she goes to an orphanage and simply hugs and rocks babies for 7 hours a day, for a whole week.

Agent 12-15 from Chris Kringle’s Cops

An elf named 12-25 approaches you. He’s sneezing, wheezing, coughing and there’s a strange tattoo of a snoring dog on his cheek. What do you do? 

RUN LIKE MAD! He might have Covid! 

What are your most effective marketing strategies?

Still working on this one.

So far, my best customers have been my friends, who buy my books for grandkids, nieces and nephews, baby showers— or even their spouses!

I also have had the gift of befriending some lovely folks who own pet supply stores, bookstores, or specialty shops, who carry my books in their stores and/or allow me to come in and do book readings and book signings.

They are angels. Additionally, I have participated in many outdoor festivals—book fairs, special animal rescue events, community “Yappy Hours” (community concerts where you are welcome to bring your pets), Fall festivals, holiday craft fairs, and such—pre-Covid.

Looking forward to getting back into these events! Meeting new people there is always a joy. 

Do you have a website/Facebook page, etc?

Yes! My website is www.woofbooks.com.

I also have a Facebook page (also called Woofbooks), but I have found that most folks there like videos, photos, and memes about animals (of all kinds) more than they like my posts about my books. ; )

But that’s ok, if I am making them smile, I’m happy. It’s fun, kid-friendly, and wholesome. 

Where can we find your books?

Two are on Barnes and Noble, the others on Amazon. They can be found on my website (links will take you right to where you can order).

On my site you can also see videos I made of me reading the books aloud during the beginning of the pandemic shutdown (to entertain kids before virtual school came about—as well as to help me maintain my own sanity!)

That way you can get a feel for what the books are about and whether they are a good fit for the recipient. Not on video is the newest book—a coloring book and story all in one.

One of my books, Nutsy the White Squirrel, can be found in The White Squirrel Shoppe in Brevard, North Carolina. Others can be found in Park Books and LitColab in Severna Park, Maryland, and Growing Minds Bookstore in Catonsville, Maryland.

Thank you, Marla, for spending time with us and sharing your story. We wish you continued success and lots of luck!

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Marla’s Featured Book

Image courtesy of Marla Stahl

Available on Amazon

Hi, kids! Do you wear glasses? Do they stay on your face?

Well, Martha’s glasses liked to fly off her face, and — oh, no! — they especially liked to blow into the sea!

When Martha went scuba-diving, she found some fish–wearing glasses that looked strangely like hers–and the fish looked very much like they were going to school! Find out what this is all about in A School of Fish.

You even get to color in all of the pictures, because it is a COLORING BOOK! Have fun!

Interview With Author Matt Terry

Image courtesy of Matt Terry via Facebook

By way of introduction, here is Matt Terry’s bio:

Matt Terry was born and raised in Nottingham, England, where he works as a Primary School Teacher.

He found his love of writing from the children’s literature he taught from, creating ideas for his own stories.

Inspired by the underlying morals and messages often found in children’s work and with a personal love of rhyme; his own writing style was born.

Matt is still teaching and thoroughly enjoys being able to reach out and impact children’s lives through his work.

Hello, Matt, welcome to Angel Kiss Publications. Thank you for agreeing to do this interview.

Thank you for having me.

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When did the writing bug ensnare you?

I’ve had the idea to write my own rhyming children’s book for years, probably since an early teenager.

My mum and I used to make silly poems up all the time to make each other laugh. I have used this love of rhyme to combine with my ideas for story writing.

Is writing your full-time profession?

No, I’m a full-time primary teacher currently, working with children aged 9-11.

How long have you been writing?

I suppose no longer than my first book officially, which was February 2020.

Image courtesy of Matt Terry

How many published books have you written?

Just the one, my first ever. It’s called ‘The Boastful Pansy’.

Which genre do you write?

I only write children’s books, and despite only having written the one, I will definitely ensure all of my published works will rhyme, I just love it!

What do you find most challenging writing for this genre?

With being a teacher, I can’t help but think about what I would want to teach from my books if I were to use them in a classroom.

The vocabulary, literary skills, necessary reading abilities for the techniques used, and wider comprehension are all aspects which prove challenging when writing a children’s book.

What are you working on now?

The Boastful Pansy has only recently been released so a lot of my time and energy is now being spent in promoting it further and gaining an interest from my target readers.

I do however have another story idea for my next work about a curious cow, but I don’t want to give too much away!

I’m very interested in making my next work more accessible to boys as I feel they would lack interest in The Boastful Pansy purely for having a main character as a flower.

Where do you find inspiration for your characters?

My characters are drawn from the storyline of my works, that’s where I begin. I find a situation that intrigues me and run with it to see if I can create an underlying moral or message from the story.

Once I have this, I use the scenario to best gauge what kind of characters I have in my books. For The Boastful Pansy, I was looking out into my garden one wintery morning whilst washing the dishes and I noticed that a pansy I had in my border of the garden was the only one getting any sunlight.

My imagination ran with me and I started to think how much it would think it was the best because it was the only flower in the sun; then equally how jealous the others would be of it.

The story grew from there and the characters naturally along with it.

What has been your most rewarding experience since publishing your work?

I think the most rewarding experience has been the engagement with my work and seeing how it has impacted on other people.

For example, the first time my Godchildren heard The Boastful Pansy was when I read it to them before bed and they were so excited to hear it and engage with it knowing their Uncle Matt had written it. That was truly special.

What advice would you give to authors just starting out?

Don’t be afraid of being afraid!

As first-time authors, we enter a completely unknown world of contracts, publishing and marketing; all of which are extremely daunting and constantly make you question whether you’re doing the right thing or how to move forward.

I’d say this is a completely normal reaction to have and with thorough decision-making and taking the time to weigh up the options, it’s definitely worth taking the plunge!

Is there anything else you’d like your readers to know about you?

The Boastful Pansy is dedicated to my wife’s Nana, who unfortunately passed away the week after I’d finished writing the book.

Although she wasn’t directly family, she was an incredible woman who lived to an astonishing 97 and someone who I held extremely close to my heart.

There was nothing she loved more than beautiful flowers and she had a magic touch with helping plants to grow in her home, which made the dedication all the more poignant.

What message are you sharing in your books?

I am an author who ensures there is a deep meaning or message throughout my work, especially as they are aimed at children, and I personally feel that books are a fantastic tool at helping children to realize their own morals and standards.

In The Boastful Pansy, the key messages are humility and forgiveness, both of which I think are obvious from the storyline when you read it!

What are your favorite books?

My absolute all-time favorite books, unsurprisingly a children’s book series, are the Rupert the Bear Series.

My mum used to read these to me as a child and she would always read the rhyming couplet version, which is possibly where my love for rhyme was born.

I used to love his adventures and all of the wonderfully mythical characters and friends he’d meet along the way. They’re just fantastic and I’d highly recommend them to anyone!

I also love anything by Julia Donaldson, again for her rhyming perfection! I think the Snail and the Whale would have to be my favorite of hers.

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If you could create an author’s group with writers from any time period, who would you invite?

I’d have a lot of old school authors such as Enid Blyton, A. A. Milne, Dr. Seuss and Mary Tourtel. I think it’d be fascinating to hear their stories of how they became who they so famously are nowadays.

Who has influenced your writing the most?

I would have to say Julia Donaldson.

As a teacher, whenever I picked up any of her works, I’d immediately be captured in a world of rhyme and fun.

I love everything about her books, and she has definitely inspired my own writing style for sure.

When you’re not writing where can we find you?

I’m an incredibly social person, so if not writing or teaching, I’m usually socializing with friends, having them over for dinner or going for a drink at the local pub.

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A movie producer wants to turn your book into a movie, and you get to make a cameo. What would you do in the movie?

I can imagine the movie of The Boastful Pansy would be an animated film, so I’d love to do the voice over for the Sunflower. It has a deep, booming voice and is what offers the pansy its most invaluable advice. I’d love to voice this character!

An elf named 12-25 approaches you. He’s sneezing, wheezing, coughing and there’s a strange tattoo of a snoring dog on his cheek. What do you do?

Invite him round for dinner! He sounds such an interesting elf, I’m sure I’d be able to get all sorts of wonderful ideas from him for a fun children’s book!

What are your most effective marketing strategies?

I’m finding a direct approach is proving the most useful. I have been directly contacting local newspapers and television stations to inform them of my new book and asking if they’d like to do a piece about it.

It’s worked well so far and I love the dialogue you can have with different industries surrounding the same topic.

Do you have a website/Facebook page, etc.?

I do! They’re as follows:

Website: https://www.austinmacauley.com/author/terry-matt

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mattterryauthor

Instagram too: @mattterryauthor

Where can we find your books?

They’re available online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Waterstones and WHSmiths (the latter two UK only)

Thank you, Matt, for spending time with us and sharing your story. We wish you continued success and lots of luck!

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Image courtesy of Matt Terry

Available on Amazon

Book Blurb:

In a beautiful English country garden, all manner of plants and flowers grow peacefully in their flower beds. The winter sunshine beams brightly, but the tall, tall fence that surrounds the garden blocks almost every ray of light from reaching the ground – well, almost every ray.

One very proud golden winter pansy stands in the only sliver of light that reaches the flower bed, and oh, how it boasts to the others. This pansy needs to be taught a lesson in humility and the very seasons themselves help the pansy to realize the error of its ways.

Interview With Author Kendra E. Ardnek

Image courtesy of Kandra E. Ardnek

By way of introduction, here is Kendra E. Ardnek’s bio:

Kendra E. Ardnek is the self-proclaimed Arista of Fairy Tales.

She lives in the Piney Woods of East Texas with her dragon babies and massive herd of mini-giraffes, and she is still waiting for one of of her fifty nutcrackers to come to life and marry her.

When not writing, you can usually find her sitting in a random box, and she’s frequently known to act before she thinks.

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Hello, Kendra, welcome to Angel Kiss Publications. Thank you for agreeing to do this interview.

Thank you for having me.

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When did the writing bug ensnare you? 

I always knew that the written word was my destiny (I share a birthday with two famous authors), and I’ve been making up stories since I understood the concept

I wasn’t serious until I was eleven or so and decided to rewrite my own movie version of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.

Where do you find inspiration for your characters?

Anywhere and everywhere. The characters of this book are all based on those of Jane Austen’s work, but I have one in another project that literally developed out a skirt. She’s a Dragon Fairy. 

Image courtesy of Kendra. E. Ardnek

What has been your most rewarding experience since publishing your work? 

Getting to connect with readers who fall in love with my characters and worlds just as much as I am.

What advice would you give to authors just starting out?

Take your time. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your story. Each word you write will get better. Focus on loving your stories, not writing a masterpiece. 

What are your favorite books?

Ella Enchanted, That Hideous Strength, The Ilyon Chronicles, The Chronicles of Narnia, The Lunar Chronicles, Emma, Elven Alliance, The Four Kingdoms, and lots more. I like a lot of books.

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If you could create an author’s group with writers from any time period, who would you invite?

The problem with this question is that my brain immediately goes to the Inklings and its ultimate implosion. Honestly, the groups I have are amazing and I wouldn’t trade them for anything.

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A movie producer wants to turn your book into a movie, and you get to make a cameo. What would you do in the movie?

Probably be a villager or a servant or some such. Though I would really want to play the Mistress. 

What are your most effective marketing strategies?

I’ve been in the publishing scene for ten years now, and it’s a constantly evolving process.

But the timeless guidelines are—Keep your book visible (don’t worry about being the annoying author who always talks about her own books. (SHOW THOSE BABIES OFF.)

Have a great cover and be able to pitch your book in a single sentence (I highly recommend Finding the Core of Your Story by Jordan Smith to learn how to do this).

Create a community for your readers and promote a fandom. Word of mouth is the most powerful tool, and people love a club. 

Do you have a website/Facebook page, etc?

https://kendraeardnek.weebly.com

knittedbygodsplan.blogspot.com

Where can we find your books?

On Amazon!

Thank you, Kendra, for spending time with us and sharing your story. We wish you continued success and lots of luck!

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Kendra’s Featured Book

Image courtesy of Kendra E. Ardnek

FREE ON KINDLE UNLIMITED

Available on Amazon

Book Blurb:

After their father’s death, and thanks to their older half-brother’s wanderlust, two sisters find themselves caught in the politics of a mysterious forest.

Elinrose finds herself in direct conflict with the wood’s Mistress, while Snowmari hides a deadly secret that could mean her death if found out.

Can their bonds of sisterhood withstand these trying times? Or will they even make it out alive?

Interview With Author TL Shively

Photo courtesy of TL Shively

By way of introduction, here is TL Shively’s bio:

T.L. Shively is an award-winning author who plays mom and wife with a daytime job. After hours you will find her knee-deep in gnomes, fairies, and all things fantasy.

She loves when her imagination takes her places she hasn’t been, then she writes them down on paper so she can share them.

Hello, TL, welcome to Angel Kiss Publications. Thank you for agreeing to do this interview.

Thank you for having me.

When did the writing bug ensnare you?

I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t thinking up stories in my head. I would even create characters to star in books I had written.

It wasn’t until I was in my 30s that I finally started writing all these stories down and then the Guardians were born.

Is writing your full-time profession?

I truly wish it was. I work in a drywall yard as inside sales/administrative. But my goal is to be a full-time writer and I’m working very hard to accomplish my dream.

How long have you been writing?

I have been writing since I was young and having my mom read the stories, but I seriously started around 16 years ago.

Image courtesy of TL Shively via tlshivelyauthor.wixsite.com

Have you won any literary awards?

I won an award for the best book cover for The Town That Time Forgot at Once Upon A Book 2019 in Frankenmuth, MI. When they announced I had won, it took me a few minutes (and my husband nudging me and telling me they called my name) to realize I had won.

How many published books have you written?

I have published 5 books in my Sanctuary Guardian Series.

Which genre do you write?

YA Fantasy

What do you find most challenging writing for this genre?

The most challenging thing for me is keeping everything straight. You wouldn’t believe how many sticky notes I have on my desk.

My characters speak to me, and they will change the plot on me when I least expect it. I must try to not let it get too far out of hand.

I love fantasy but I try to keep a bit of realism in it as well.

What are you working on now?

I have a few projects I’m working on.

One is a story outside of the Sanctuary Guardian universe about a spider goddess who discovers that there is more to her story than she knew.

I’m also working on a coloring book for the Sanctuary Guardians as well as a Christmas story for the Guardians.

Image courtesy of TL Shively via tlshivelyauthor.wixsite.com

Where do you find inspiration for your characters?

I created the Guardians when I was very young growing up in the country.

The stories that I would read and create other stories from. Those were the ones that the Guardians would star in until they finally got a story of their own.

Other characters’ inspiration has come from people in my life and sometimes I look at a picture online that will create a character for me. Inspiration comes from all around.

What has been your most rewarding experience since publishing your work?

When I get to see fans who are just as excited about my stories as I am. They are my rewards.

What advice would you give to authors just starting out?

The only advice I can give is to not give up, to keep trying and keep asking questions.

Everybody’s approach is unique, and you have to find the one that works for you. Watch what other authors are doing and try it.

If it doesn’t work, then try something else. Reach out to other authors and ask for advice and help. Never stop asking.

Is there anything else you’d like your readers to know about you?

I love all things fantasy, which includes my gaming. I love playing RPG games.

I love dragons, gnomes, mermaids and, of course, fairies. I love to draw and craft.

What message are you sharing in your books?

When I first started writing, I never realized there was a message. I always thought I was writing a story for people just to escape.

During an interview, I realized my story was about teamwork, learning to work as a team with each other and others.

What are your favorite books?

I have so many, but Harry Potter and Percy Jackson top the list.

If you could create an author’s group with writers from any time period, who would you invite?

Edgar Allan Poe, Emily Dickinson, and Washington Irving would be my top ones to invite.

In school, I was the kid who loved reading the required reading. Those stories inspired my imagination.

Who has influenced your writing the most?

My mom, even when I was young and writing stories that probably made little sense she would read them and tell me how interesting they were.

She kept my love of reading and my imagination alive. She has always been my biggest fan.

Although with other authors, I will say that I can’t pinpoint just one. I take away something from everything I read.

I know what I like when I read, so I tend to put that into my writing.

I skim over all the descriptions to get to the actions and so I try to bring that to life in my writings.

I know descriptions are important, so I make sure to add some descriptions, but I try to keep them from suffocating the story and let the reader use some of their own imagination when reading my stories as well.

Image courtesy of TL Shively via tlshivelyauthor.wixsite.com

When you’re not writing, where can we find you?

During the day I work.

But at home if I’m not writing I work at my crafting table making crystal creations for my stories, outside by the fire pit with my husband, or possibly curled up with a good book another fantastic author wrote.

There are also some wonderful friends I have met online during my time in book groups, fellow readers and even authors I will chat with on Facebook.

Can’t forget about the marketing side of writing, the dark side, as we sometimes refer to it as but a necessary evil for being an author.

A movie producer wants to turn your book into a movie, and you get to make a cameo. What would you do in the movie?

I would like to play a part where no one knew which side I was on.

One small line and no one would know if what I said was to help the heroes or to hinder them.

I really like the grey area characters; you never truly know which side they are on, but they are always entertaining. Even if they are only there for a moment.

An elf named 12-25 approaches you. He’s sneezing, wheezing, coughing and there’s a strange tattoo of a snoring dog on his cheek. What do you do?

After I go full momma on him and give him something for sneezing, wheezing, and coughing (yes, that would be my first instinct. I am a lot like Vanna in my stories that way).

I would then listen to his story and help him out in any way I could. Can you just imagine the story he would tell? What adventure he could lead me on?

The chance to see an elven village and the other magical creatures I could meet. Better than any story I could come up with!

Image courtesy of TL Shively via tlshivelyauthor.wixsite.com

What are your most effective marketing strategies?

I’m still working on that.

I share posts about my books in Facebook groups; I take part in author takeovers; I have a PR person who posts on my pages for me, and I have used Facebook and Amazon ads.

I’m also looking at creating a coloring book to help with promoting my Guardians as well.

I had dolls created to represent my characters and I am working on getting drawings done for each of my characters.

On my website I have a series called A Moment with Chad that follows the comic relief Guardian of Ice as he shares snippets of the book his Uncle Leroy gave him for Christmas, Useless Facts that You Will Never Use in Your Life.

Do you have a website/Facebook page, etc?

I do and you can find them all on my link tree:

https://linktr.ee/tlshively

Where can we find your books?

On Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Wal-Mart, Target, the Apple store, Scribd and Kobo, to just name a few.

I also offer signed physical copies on my website, or you can reach out to me anytime.

Thank you, TL, for spending time with us and sharing your story. We wish you continued success and lots of luck!

Image provided by TL Shively via tlshivelyauthor.wixsite.com

TL Shively’s Featured Book

Image courtesy of TL Shively

Available on Amazon

Book Blurb:

The Guardians visited a cursed town, walked under the water of Prince William Sound, and battled Shadows wanting to wake the Sleeping Lady.

What they want now is to relax and enjoy the Crystal-Con. Unfortunately, their fated callings have other plans.

A Hunter has gone rogue and Arion warriors have ventured from the Alaskan frontier to help hunt him down. But they can’t do it alone.

Venturing to the underground realm of the Hunters, the Guardians join the search. Distracted by high-tech gadgets and hover bikes, the team unknowingly falls into a trap.

But it will take more than a blinding headache to stop them. 

Capturing the rogue comes easy… too easy. To their surprise, he has connections to the Sanctuary that challenge everything they thought they knew.

Shadows. Secrets. Hidden agendas.

How much more can the Guardians take before they go rouge themselves?

Interview With Author Katherine Monroe

Photo courtesy of Katherine Monroe

By way of introduction, here is Katherine Monroe’s bio:

A native of Poland, Katherine Monroe, is an artistic soul who enjoys learning foreign languages and writing stories in various genres, with flavors from many cultures (especially East Asia).

Hello, Katherine, welcome to Angel Kiss Publications. Thank you for agreeing to do this interview.

Thank you for having me.

When did the writing bug ensnare you?

I think it was when I was between 10 and 12 years old. My family and I were on vacation with my uncle, when my younger sister and I made a contest with him to write the best short horror story – it was then I thought about being a writer in the future.

Is writing your full-time profession?

Unfortunately, no, I’m just beginning my journey. I can’t pay my bills with money from books yet, so I have to work in other fields as well.

How long have you been writing?

I started as a 10-year-old, so I have been writing for 20 years, of course with some hiatus along the way since my teens to late twenties.

Have you won any literary awards?

I won 2nd place in a popularity contest on Fictionate.me, the main platform I publish on, with my thriller novel Blossom Tears.

How many published books have you written?

Six novels, counting in the three parts of my series Light & Darkness. Another two are in the making 🙂

Which genres do you write?

Mostly Fantasy/Romance, but I wrote two novels from the Thriller/Crime/Suspense genres.

What do you find most challenging writing for these genres?

Thriller is the most challenging since I rarely write in this genre because it’s hard to write a good thriller suspense story. Fantasy is quite easy for me because it lets me freely use my imagination.

What are you working on now?

I will be writing Light & Darkness: Book 4 and currently I am writing a Fantasy/Romance novel called Love of the Snow-White Fox.

Where do you find inspiration for your characters?

In a lot of places: music, movies, other books, sometimes all around me, while meeting various people.

What has been your most rewarding experience since publishing your work?

Every positive comment, where people say they loved the story, is rewarding, showing me I should keep on writing because my novels can make others happy.

What advice would you give to authors just starting out?

Never give up, especially if writing is something you love to do, read a lot, learn from others to improve your writing, look for inspiration everywhere: from various cultures to everyday life, you never know where you’ll find a great book idea.

Is there anything else you’d like your readers to know about you?

I just want them to know I appreciate every opinion and hope that my novels are making them happy.

What message are you sharing in your books?

Most of my books contain a “love can change the world” idea, so I wish my readers would regain hope in the strength of love, since I believe in it with all my heart.

What are your favorite books?

I love Stephen King’s works, also Anne Rice and Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Overall horror books are my favorite, mostly in vampiric themes. I also like period romances like Jane Austen’s books.

If you could create an author’s group with writers from any time period, who would you invite?

Anne Rice for sure, Bram Stoker and Jane Austen for sure 🙂

Also, Stephen King, of course. And many more I don’t remember right now.

Who has influenced your writing the most?

I think maybe Japanese anime. Many of my fantasy novels have elements of it. Korean detective dramas definitely inspired my thriller’s.

When you’re not writing, where can we find you?.

Anywhere there is good music, peace and nature.

A movie producer wants to turn your book into a movie, and you get to make a cameo. What would you do in the movie?

Hmm, that’s a hard question, but maybe as a passerby? I don’t want any big role, to be honest 🙂

An elf named 12-25 approaches you. He’s sneezing, wheezing, coughing and there’s a strange tattoo of a snoring dog on his cheek. What do you do?

I would definitely ask if he needed any help, also about his tattoo, and maybe I would also give him some hot tea with honey.

What are your most effective marketing strategies?

Just promoting on social media, I guess. Although I’m not the best at marketing 🙂

But for sure, a pretty graphic or video about your novel is always eye-catching.

Do you have a website/Facebook page, etc?

Yes, on Facebook you can find me as Katherine Monroe, which is my pen name, facebook.com/KatherineMonroePL . I also have an active Instagram as eastasiaaddict_pl

Where can we find your books?

Most of them are on Fictionate.me or Dreame platform.

I also have some on reading apps like Readict, GoodNovel, OnReading, Libri & Bravonovel.

More info can be found on my Facebook’s author page: facebook.com/KatherineMonroePL

Book Links:

Love of the Snow White Fox (Fantasy/Romance): http://fictionate.me/…/6CC28753-66A8-463B-A5F9...
The Scarlet Angels (Supernatural/Thriller/Psychological):
fictionate.me/books/4AA26379-BA2F-427B-BEB2-5D6982A01CAF
Blossom Tears (Suspense/Thriller/Crime):
fictionate.me/books/802D2F68-CFC2-456C-B28E-D96594FA6C0E
Black Roses (Paranormal/Romance):
fictionate.me/books/659E3E83-7E05-4384-B183-3EA585146E24
Moonlight Waltz (Fantasy/Romance/Adventure):
dreame.com/novel/41RMVRIGEjiifqx6Du%2FVLQ%3D%3D.html
Scarlet Rose (Fantasy/Romance/Vampire):
dreame.com/novel/vg%2B7KCUB6T6zQWrxhS7SrQ%3D%3D.html
(For Dreame: Better copy+paste the link instead of just clicking, it may redirect you to the Dreame home page)

Light & Darkness series:

Book 1: fictionate.me/books/C04685C6-EE28-4EC4-8E38-24FE46D993BA
Book 2: fictionate.me/books/7542FA3D-4629-4EA7-81AE-E076D78E6D2D
Book 3 : fictionate.me/books/7A12E281-648D-4F1E-BC5A-04EF27B853EF

Thank you, Katherine, for spending time with us and sharing your story. We wish you continued success and lots of luck!

Katherine Monroe’s Featured Book: Available September 1, 2021

Book Link: fictionate.me/books/6CC28753-66A8-463B-A5F9-264F62685BA6

Facebook event: www.facebook.com/events/219063840083721

Book Description:

Soo Jung is a gumiho – a Korean nine-tailed fox spirit – but also one of her kind, with a fur as white as snow.

After being saved by a human, she walks down from the mountain, turning into her human form, but soon tragic events occur and Soo Jung escapes to the mountains and falls asleep for a long time, not intending to wake up.

However, one day she is awoken by a dream about a man who resembles her long lost love. Soo Jung goes down from the mountain once again. She soon discovers the world has drastically changed and tries to fit in, while searching for the man from her dream.

Interview With Author Kayla Dodd

Photo courtesy of Kayla Dodd

By way of introduction, here is Kayla Dodd’s bio:

Author Kayla Dodd lives in Dowagiac, Michigan, with her four kids and her husband.

Kayla loves writing. It has been a hobby of hers for many years. She is so grateful to be able to have the opportunity to share her imagination with her many readers.

Hello, Kayla, welcome to Angel Kiss Publications. Thank you for agreeing to do this interview.

Thank you for having me.

When did the writing bug ensnare you? 

I just started publishing my work, but I wrote short stories and poems at a very young age.

Is writing your full-time profession?

 Yes

How long have you been writing?

 A while

The Second Chance by [Kayla Dodd]
Image courtesy of Kayla Dodd

How many published books have you written?

2 books with more in the works

Which genres do you write?

Contemporary, Horror, Sci-fi, Paranormal

What do you find most challenging writing for these genres?

In horror, it’s hard to have to kill some of your favorite characters.

What are you working on now?

Another Horror book

Where do you find inspiration for your characters?

Whatever comes out of my mind.

What has been your most rewarding experience since publishing your work?

Hearing that readers have read my book and like it.

What advice would you give to authors just starting out?

Keep writing, never give up. Taking in constructive criticism is essential to improve your writing craft.

Is there anything else you’d like your readers to know about you?

I love writing, and I hope that readers enjoy reading my work. 

What are your favorite books?

I like Eric Carle’s books.

Who has influenced your writing the most?

Nobody influenced me. I write just what comes out of my mind. 

When you’re not writing, where can we find you?

At my kids’ sports games or the park with my kids.

A movie producer wants to turn your book into a movie, and you get to make a cameo. What would you do in the movie?

I wouldn’t want to be in the movie, but I think it would be interesting to watch on set.

An elf named 12-25 approaches you. He’s sneezing, wheezing, coughing and there’s a strange tattoo of a snoring dog on his cheek. What do you do?

If he’s sneezing and wheezing and coughing, I guess I’ll offer him a Kleenex.

What are your most effective marketing strategies?

Trying to appeal to readers who are interested in that genre.

Do you have a website/Facebook page, etc?

https://www.facebook.com/kaylaDoddAuthor

Where can we find your books?

Amazon, Target, Walmart, https://penitpublications.com/?s=kayla+dodd

Thank you, Kayla, for spending time with us and sharing your story. We wish you continued success and lots of luck!

Kayla Dodd’s Featured Book

Image courtesy of Kayla Dodd

Available on Amazon

May is a scientist who studies aliens. She has dedicated her entire life to finding out the truth. It jeopardized her marriage to Chris because he did not want her working in the lab. He wanted her to quit, but she stood her ground and it cost her much.


When she comes face-to-face with the alien she has been studying, what will she do? Will she run away or will she have feelings so strong for him that a romance blossoms.


The ground was blue and sandy, but I saw what looked like many trees and various flowers. Both were prominent and more substantial than those I knew back on Earth.


As I pulled into the castle, I was amazed. It was simply beautiful with long spiral towers that surrounded it on all sides. The walls were a beautiful blue and the water that surrounded it was purple. I had never seen anything so exotic.


The beauty is nothing compared to what she is about to experience when she meets ‘the Alien’.

Interview With Author Djennicia A. Francis

Photo courtesy of Djennicia Francis via Facebook

By way of introduction, here is Djennicia A. Francis’ bio:

Whimsy is my name and Building Positive Mental Health practices is my game!

Djennicia A. Francis is an educator, pageant queen, and author of the book In the Mirror. She is a veritable fairy whose love for books is only matched by her love for life.

After graduating with her degree in Psychology she embarked on the journey that led her to teaching. Through this melding of worlds, she’s received certification in “Strategies for Dealing with Low Self Esteem in Children” and “Counseling Children and Youth.”

When she manages to tear herself away from her books, she trains aspiring Pageant Queens in Public Speaking, sings in her church’s choir and binge watches Japanese Anime. Believe it!!

She is free spirited and sees Mental Health as tantamount to success and joy. Add that to her love for kids and you have a fantastical soul who’s on a journey to teach children to Master their Minds so they can Master their Reality.

Hello, Djennicia, welcome to Angel Kiss Publications. Thank you for agreeing to do this interview.

Thank you for having me.

When did the writing bug ensnare you?

Years ago, honestly, but in the form of Spoken Word and Pageantry Speech Writing.

However, the children’s book writing bug, took a huge bite out of me about two years ago, one morning while I was in prayer.

Is writing your full-time profession?

Not at the moment but it is definitely a profession that I am interested in pursuing for the long haul.

How long have you been writing?

As mentioned before, I’ve been writing for numerous years, just in varying capacities. But let me let you in on a little secret, I wrote In the Mirror in one evening’s sitting!

How many published books have you written?

This is my first one. OMG I am a published author!!

Which genre do you write?

I am a children’s book author whose focus is mental health in children. So, my current book and all the books to come will be deigned to teach children positive mental health practices

What do you find most challenging writing for this genre?

My use of words for sure. I am a lover of words for sure, which is evident by the fact that I have a web series entirely dedicated to words!

I am always working towards expanding my vocabulary. So, it was quite difficult keeping my words at the level necessary for the pronunciation and comprehension of a younger audience.

What are you working on now?

Surviving lol. Seriously I am working on marketing. I am brand spanking new in the industry and must put the work in to make myself known. I am also working on my second book, so 2021 here we come.

Where do you find inspiration for your characters?

That’s such and interesting question, and the answer is, it varies. Isabel Ink was inspired by what I truly wanted to see in a children’s book and people tell me all the time that she looks like a mini me.

So maybe I, even as an adult, wanted to see myself in a book. Additionally, diversity is very important to me, so I try to create characters that are relatable to children across the globe.

Finally, I’m inspired by my students, their mannerisms, everyday interactions, curiosities, and all that they go through on their journey.

I have been in the presence of children of all ages with insecurities, dealing with loss and more. So being with them essentially inspires me to write for them.

What has been your most rewarding experience since publishing your work?

You should have seen my face when I read this question. Big bright smile!

Hands down the most rewarding experience thus far, was when a lady messaged me and explained that she had shown my book cover to her daughter and her daughter loved it because Isabel looked like her!

That almost made me cry, because I wanted that. I firmly believe that representation matters, and I took a lot of time ensuring that Isabel looked the way she does, so little girls who look like her can see themselves, know that they’re beautiful and can do anything they put their minds to.

Isabel is meant to inspire all, but in that moment, all the work was worth it.

What advice would you give to authors just starting out?

Find a mentor. My mentor Felisha Bradshaw has so much to do with how I got here.

Join author groups on social media. Essentially be ready to learn a lot and align yourself with people who are doing it successfully for guidance.

Reach out to someone, authors are nice people lol. Just ask the lady that started it all for me, this very special blogger here lol.

You will be surprised at how many things you don’t know that you don’t know.

Photo courtesy of Djennicia Francis via Facebook

Is there anything else you’d like your readers to know about you?

All my books are meant to be read aloud, because I believe that reading out loud is the foundation of public speaking. This is another love of mine.

I’m currently a speech writer and public speaking coach for pageant queens. I am currently developing a program to help children build public speaking skills and I look forward to sharing it with you all.

I am a vocalist, dramatist, and pageant queen. Additionally, as mentioned before, I have a You Tube Series dedicated to words. It’s called Wonky Wacky Words.

There I introduce my audience, to the Wonkiest, Wackiest Words that actually exists and words with mega cool meanings.

Its for all ages so check it out and get wonky with me lol!

YouTube: https://youtu.be/rm3L8vpACko

What message are you sharing in your books?

It’s all about mental health. The mind is the most essential part of what makes us, us and what makes us succeed.

Unfortunately, though, insecurities, negative self-talk, negative environments, and in general poor mental health practices, hinder us immeasurably.

So, my dream is to equip children with the tools they need to keep their minds healthy and happy.

My mission is to: “Teach our children to Master Their Mind, so they can Master Their Realities.

In this I can see them excel academically, financially, and truly be free human beings.

What are your favorite books?

I am a huge fiction fan! Both Young Adult and Adult Fiction tinkle my fancy.

My all-time favorite book series is The Vampire Huntress Legend by L.A Banks.

If you could create an author’s group with writers from any time period, who would you invite?

L.A. Banks lol (I’m sure you saw that coming), Felisha Bradshaw, this awesome blogger right here.

P.C. Cast- and I’d ask her where is book 4 of the Tales of a New World Series? and Tomi Adeyemi.

I’m pretty sure there are more but those are who I can think of right away lol.

Who has influenced your writing the most?

As it pertains to my children’s books, I’d have to say my students. Their troubles and triumphs keep my creative juices flowing.

In general, maybe my mom, I want to use all my talents to create a better life for her.

When you’re not writing where can we find you?

Reading, watching Japanese Anime, or doing Karaoke.

I’m also usually in church or at a church event, teaching or hanging out with friends and family.

P.S. Food would most likely be involved in most if not all of those. I LOVE FOOD.

A movie producer wants to turn your book into a movie, and you get to make a cameo. What would you do in the movie?

I would be Isabel’s mom. Encouraging her every day to speak into being everything she desires for herself.

I would speak life into her, every day, making sure that my little Issy knows how powerful and loved she is.

An elf named 12-25 approaches you. He’s sneezing, wheezing, coughing and there’s a strange tattoo of a snoring dog on his cheek. What do you do?

Did you say Elf? OMG!

Normally I would offer the poor dear some tissue and ensure that he was ok. Then we’d have to talk about Santa of course.

Eventually, I’d ask what inspired the tattoo and since when did elves start getting tattoos. But, its 2021…. and Covid-19… so I’d most likely head for the hills, because Lord alone knows what magical Covid-19 could do.

What are your most effective marketing strategies?

I am still figuring this out, so if you have some advice, feel free to share them.

Do you have a website/Facebook page, etc?

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speak_peek_childrens_books/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakpeek/

Phone:  +1-868-760-5699

Email Address: SpeakPeekTT@gmail.com

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/~/e/B08NCGPZL6

Where can we find your books?

The book is available on Amazon in both E-Book and Paperback.

Additionally, if you live within Trinidad & Tobago, it can be ordered directly from me, however on Book link http://www.amzn.com/B08N9ZSFQB

Thank you, Djennicia, for spending time with us and sharing your story. We wish you continued success and lots of luck!

Djennicia’s Featured Book

Available On Amazon

Come spend a day in the life of little Isabelle Ink as she asks every living thing “What do you see in the Mirror?” Endearing Isabelle Ink is a remarkable little girl who believes in the magic and power of Positive Affirmations!

So imagine her surprise when she hears her best friend saying negative things about himself! What will Isabelle do?

Come dive into “In The Mirror” to find out, as we teach our Children, to Master Their Minds so they can Master Their Realities. This book is written with Mental Health for Children in mind.

It aims to foster Self Love and help children develop Emotional Intelligence all while featuring Diverse Characters.

It also comes with Affirmation Games for Families and Classrooms alike, to truly bring to life the lessons learned!