 Okay, we admit Dick's not the most politically correct agent alive, and he sometimes bumbles and reminds us of what happens when you cross a certain French Inspector with a British Legume to produce an American Dick, but you have to admit that he's as cute as a pink Rottweiler when he's on the scent of a good case! Who says you can't teach an ole dog new tricks? Ahoy, Me Hearties! It's cloaks and daggers for this exciting interview with author Richard Avery! Our interview will be conducted under cover of darkness as we meet clandestinely to get the scoop on his newest release, 'Dick Scalps the Injuns', The Dick Avery Adventure Series, Book One. As we lower the gangplank to welcome him we anticipate hearing about this amazing read from the veteran Spy himself! HE KNEW HE WASN'T BEING GIVEN ALL THE FACTS... HE KNEW HE'D BEEN CHOSEN BECAUSE THE MISSION WAS DANGEROUSLY IMPOSSIBLE AND NO ONE ELSE WANTED IT... ...BUT HE ALSO KNEW THAT HIS EMPTY WALLET LEFT HIM NO CHOICE. ...DICK AVERY IS ON THE CASE! "It was the same old, same old routine since I returned to the states. I was bored out of my mind and welcomed the assignment for a change of pace and some sanity. I knew it was probably a no win situation for me, but I didn't care since I needed the money." Ahoy, George! Welcome aboard The Whimsical Herald! I've got lots of questions for you today, so I'll dive right in! When did you start writing? I started writing rather late in life after more or less being retired with a lot of spare time on my hands. I’d toyed with the idea off-and-on for several years and finally decided to sit down and write a book. That start ended after I wrote five novels over a continuous, two year period. The story lines kept popping into my head until I couldn’t come up with any more. It was most definitely a manic phase in my life. What methodologies do you use in writing your books? I’m not sure what that means. I simply start out with a vague idea as to what the story will be about and go from there; sort of a stream of consciousness or perhaps unconsciousness way of doing things. One sentence leads to another until I’m finished. If I get stuck, I skip the part and move on. I don’t diagram things or sketch out the story line beforehand. Of course, I go back and try to perfect the writing, but for the most part it’s all about moving the plot along until conclusion. What’s the raison d’être behind the books? I wanted to write humorous spoofs and send-ups of the State Department, my organization, the Diplomatic Security Service, and U.S. foreign policy; all set to mystery/adventure stories. I didn’t want to vilify or glorify anything, but rather to poke some fun at our institutions and their foibles overseas. They are most certainly politically incorrect reads. There was already a plethora of conventional spy heroes, secret agents and the like out there and thought I‘d take a different tack. I believe my firsthand experiences and insights into the Foreign Service culture give the stories added depth and credence thus enhancing the reads. I also throw in some tongue-and-cheek comments about our war on terrorism, embassy life and customs, diplomatic protocol as well as some insider tidbits and teases. Where do you draw your material from? The Dick Avery Adventure Stories come from both my experiences working abroad and a vivid imagination, along with a very quirky sense of humor. They are loosely based on assignments and travels I had with the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service, The World Bank, and as an international security consultant. I’ve lived overseas and traveled the world during my career and have come across many different situations that lend themselves to a good story. Tell us about the protagonist in the series. Dick Avery is a retired special agent of the Diplomatic Security Service who is down on his luck and life. He doesn’t have enough money to sustain his many vices and few virtues and is always looking for a handout from Mother State. Hopefully, it’s a bone with some meat left on it for a change. He’s considered an expendable commodity and convenient scapegoat by the big suits in the State Department. That’s why he’s recalled to take on the tough cases that no other right-minded agent would readily accept since the assignments are fraught with danger to one’s Foreign Service career. Dick typically solves the cases in his own unorthodox, bumbling style of investigation, with the help of his colorful colleagues. So, what’s Dick Scalps the Injuns about? Dick is sent to India by his masters to investigate the kidnapping of the U.S. ambassador’s daughter in New Delhi. He subsequently learns that Afghan President Karzai’s daughter had been kidnapped at the same time and this has the State Department and White House in an uproar. Karzai’s daughter had been living at the ambassador’s residence under an assumed name and attending the International School of Delhi. His search for the girls leads him from Delhi to the crematoria Ghats in Banaras to the Taj Mahal and back to Delhi in his pursuit of his adversary, his foe and his nemesis: Kris Amar, the head Dalit at the largest crematorium in Banaras. Why the pseudonym Dick Avery? I originally used Avery Dick, but the publisher thought that it was a little too racy. I thought it was spot on to describe the character, but she won out. By the way, a nom de guerre is only used by Pentagon wonks with any leftover tail feathers relegated to the State Department as nom de plumes. So, Dick Avery it is. Are you working on other projects? Yes, I’ve written an anthology of paranormal stories titled Macabre Memories (Eclectic Tales to Chill the Soul) that I’m trying to flog at the moment. Did you have a particular audience in mind when writing this novel? No, I didn't, but the publisher thought the protagonist should be a younger, good looking guy who would better appeal to women. So, that's what happened in the editing in order to create broader acceptance by the readership. Humor has a predominant place in ‘Dick Scalps the Injuns’ in the form of wisecracking, pun intended and other word play. Did you find in reality that the serious business of acting as a Special Agent has a lighter side? Yes, most definitely. Despite the serious nature of the job and sometimes tragic events overseas, there were quirky, humorous events that happened from time-to-time. Early one Sunday morning, in the mid 1980's, when assigned to the embassy in Panama, I was awakened by a helicopter gunship hovering outside my bedroom window of my apartment on the 13th floor of my building. This was during the rule of General Manuel Noriega and the Panamanian people were expressing their displeasure with him and his regime. The area I lived in was largely populated by wealthy Panamanians who were protesting his continued leadership. By the way, gallows humor is very popular in the Foreign Service. I received a frantic call one day from the pouch supervisor while assigned to our embassy in Bangkok. It seem an intruder had entered the pouch vault at the rear of the chancery without notice. An 8 foot long water snake had slithered underneath the back door and moved about 6 feet down a hallway and slid beneath the day gate to the vault, nestling itself among the diplomatic pouches. The snake likely came from the klong (canal) at the rear of the building. It was a funny event to everyone except the supervisor. Coming from a unique insider background of 49 years as a Special Agent and Security Specialist are you ever concerned that you might reveal too much concerning the inner workings of government agencies? No, of course not. My books have been vetted and read by my former superiors and colleagues.and were for sale at the Diplomatic Security Service store in a State Department annex.for several years when I self-pubbed them. When I refer to insider information and teases, I'm talking about embassy life as it relates to such things as how employee housing assignments are made and how some try to scam the system and how currency accommodations are handled and could be abused and many other tidbits. However, they are all made up from transparent, whole cloth---some fact, but a lot of my imagination. As a world traveler, what cultures appealed to you the most? Would you consider retiring in any of them? I lived in Thailand for 2 years and would consider retiring to Chiang Mai in the North of the country. Great people, medical facilities, food and a very low cost of living. Can we expect more books from your series? Yes, most assuredly. There are four more titles to be released by the publisher over time: Dick Slays the Dragons, Dick Fades the Albino, Dick Cases the Bank and Dick Hounds the Afghans. Just one more question, for fun. What’s your favorite color? That’s easy, pink of course. It’s the color of the mascot of the Dick Avery Adventure Stories: the Pink Rottweiler.  In Dick Scalps the Injuns, Richard Avery is sent to India to investigate the kidnapping of the U.S. ambassador's daughter in New Delhi. He discovers that the White House and State Department are in an uproar over the subsequent kidnapping of Afghan President Karzai's eldest daughter who had been living on the ambassador's residential compound under an assumed name and attending the International School of Delhi. His search for the girls leads him from Delhi to the crematoria ghats in Banaras and the Taj Mahal.  George Larson, AKA Richard Avery, with his better half at the Tucson Festival of Books, greeting fans and doing book signings. George Larson, AKA Dick Avery, both of whom are well thought of, puns and all, here at TT, have kept us on our toes keeping up with the fast pace with which a former spy guy is used to working/moving once he is given a directive. George received a BA degree in English from Northern Illinois University. He then had a 49 year career in investigations, law enforcement and security in the US and abroad (private investigator, DOD security specialist, senior special agent Diplomatic Security Service US State Department, World Bank security consultant, Vice President Corporate Security for NASD, Security Director for Salliemae, independent security consultant). It's fairly easy to see from here, where Richard Avery comes into the picture. Me? My nom de guerre is Richard Avery, though I'm old enough that my nickname as a kid was and still is Dick, so I've given it to the "character" Dick Avery, and I am a retired special agent of the U.S. State Department's Diplomatic Security Service or simply DSS, if you prefer. I'll leave out the plenipotentiary and extraordinary accolades that go along with the title because there aren't any. I was just one more bureaucrat among many who served their career sentences in the sideshow called the Foreign Service. What's the old quip? "Those who can, do. Those who can't, teach. Those who can't teach join the federal government." Yep, that's me alright and I’m damn proud of it! You may connect with me further, if you can keep up, on my website and other social media sites! http://www.dickavery.net/index.html It is with deep regret and many still unanswered questions that we bid farewell to our honored guest Richard Avery as he departs THE WHIMSICAL HERALD. We are excited to discover more of his intriguing tale within the pages of his latest novel 'Dick Scalps the Injuns'. One click it today to immerse yourselves in a tale well told.!
All my duty to you,fair winds and following seas till we meet again! Patricia Mattern, Mistress of Madness THE WHIMSICAL HERALD #WeDoMadnessHere
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ALL HAND HOY ME HEARTIES! Aaaaaargggghhhhh! We are weary of grey skies, but with the advent of February we are steering a course for Valentine’s Day and ,beyond that, the Spring Equinox beckons like a Siren. Walking the gang plank today to board The Whimsical Herald is an author with an imagination as vast as the ocean and a wit to match. We welcome Author Ellen Fritz on board. She comes bearing a pirate’s chest of literary treasure and has invited all of you to share the spoils of her newest release, ’UPRISING:The Second Birth Chronicles’ . As she takes her seat at the Captain’s table we hoist theJolly Rodger and invite you to listen in on our first author interview with the notable Ellen Fritz! Prepare for chills, mystery, romance and (wait for it, wait for it) . . . ALIENS! “He shivered. He knew the horrors humans were capable of. Whatmight aliens do?” "The hairs on the back of Ted’s neck stood straight up as if lightning were about to strike. He blinked his eyes a few times and pinchedhimself. Erik Ander was the first to change, then his wife…finally Collins turned into something tall, thin, with lavender skin and long pastel-colored robes. The one facing the window had eyes of deep, deep blue with spots oflight twinkling in them.”'  Ellen Fritz is a retired teacher and high school counselor. Over the years of teaching reading and English to students in grades seven through twelve before be-coming a counselor, she had the great opportunity to discuss numerous favorite books with students and also took their recom-mendations for her own reading. She finally found herself with the time to give life to the stories that have always been patiently waiting in her head for an audience. Ellen wrote Mira to appeal to those teen readers that she found so inspiring through her career as an educator. "I didn’t start writing seriously until I retired and found myself with the time to spend a whole day in front of the computer. The ideas had been in my head for many years, but were undeveloped and unexplored. One day, several months after my teaching/ counseling career ended, I sat down and started. Q-Ellen there is intrigue and drama, but also a lot of humor in uprising. How did you come up with the character of Detective Ted Peterson with his tongue in cheek sense of humor? Answer: I knew I needed someone who was dedicated to his job, friendly and brave. He had to be willing to face the aliens to save the women who were abducted. It all came from there. Using humor to cover his nervousness and fear also worked to make him seem real. Q-Do you take a break between novels or have several projects going at once? Answer: I can’t take a break between novels because my mind doesn’t stop working on new ideas. I had a new novel started while editing Uprising and was finishing another series. It would be easier to do one at a time, but I’d have to stop thinking of new things and that would be boring. Q-Who inspired you to complete your first novel? Who continues to inspire your fresh ideas for characters and plotlines? Answer: I’m a retired high school English teacher and my inspiration to start writing at all came from students. But inspiration comes from everywhere. Often, the storyline seems to just pop into my head and it’s later that I realize where it came from. I’ve known a lot of people through the years and my inspiration for characters is usually a mix of many different people. Q-Ted’s first alien kiss was a doozy. How did you approach writing that scene? Answer: I knew I wanted it to be a doozy, so I thought long and hard. Ted and Sindri both needed to be wowed, so I wanted her to be in her Miran form. That would wow Ted, but how would it impress Sindri? Her story of no human ever knowing what she truly was after being on earth for thousands of years, became my answer. The fact that he knew and she could be herself touched her deeply. Q-If you had to come up with a few dating rules for humans dating aliens what would they be? Answer: I think they’re the same rules for any relationship. Stay honest. Stay open. Remember you don’t have to rush the relationship. Q-You seem to have a lot of knowledge about police procedures, detectives and crime scenes. What is your background and how did it figure in with your portrayal of certain scenes and characters in ‘UPRISING’? Answer: I have absolutely no background in police work except that many of my previous students are now police officers, detectives, and state patrol officers. I think my knowledge comes from all the detective shows I’ve watched on TV. See, you really can learn from TV. Thank you, Law and Order. Q-A certain ‘genetic eye opener’ in ‘UPRISING’ provided a unique plot twist. Did you plan that or did it happen spontaneously during your writing? Answer: I planned that. There had to be some reason Ted could sense the other race of aliens, the Dabih. I realized then that it also gave Sindri a reason to doubt him, which added an interesting twist. Q-Was the world building and stage setting detail of the opposing alien cultures, the Mirans and the Dabih featured in your novel a challenge to flesh out? Answer: It wasn’t much of a challenge. Sometimes, thankfully, one idea leads to another. I established the Miran settlement in the first book, and wanted the Dabih world to be completely different. Putting them underwater while the Mirans are in the mountains helped. I went back and forth a few times, and changed some things, but it was actually easier than I anticipated. There’s also much more about the Dabih in the next book. Watch for it! Q-Who have your mentors been on your journey to becoming a notable YA author? Answer: I have always been a voracious reader which is one of the reasons I became an English teacher. I’ve read literary classics, science fiction, fantasy, romances, mysteries, great literature and trash. So my mentors are all those other authors that I’ve so thoroughly enjoyed. My advice? If you want to be a writer, be a reader first. Q-Who was your favorite character in ‘UPRISING’? Answer: Without a doubt, Ted. I enjoyed every part of making him who he is – the good guy that everyone likes and appreciates as a friend. The guy who was born to be a cop because he genuinely wants to help people that need help. Who wouldn’t like Ted? Q-What future projects do you have in the wings for your readers to look forward to? Answer: The third book of the Second Birth Chronicles, which is ready for editing and all the other stuff the publisher needs to do. I also have a book with Tell-Tale Publishing that is about Bigfoot. No more hints now, but it is due to be out by May. There are two more that are partly written, but the dystopia is what is rolling around in my head and begging to be finished.  Detective Ted Peterson’s investigation of a suspicious death case leads him to suspect Lexi Collins and her boyfriend Adam. What he discovers is that they’re extraterrestrials. Now he's without backup and caught up in the conflict between two alien races secretly inhabiting the earth. One race, the Dabih, is abducting women and running experiments. The other, the Mira, seem friendly toward humans – especially their attractive leader Sindri - but can Ted trust aliens to help him find the Dabih and rescue the kidnapped women before it’s too late? Also by Ellen Fritz |
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Coming Soon, Book IV of In the Night series
Hunted
WELL ME HEARTIES, once again we have reached the bottom of our literary bottle, and we must bid “Fair Winds and Following Seas” to our worthy guest, author Ellen Fritz. It was an honor to have her on board The Whimsical Herald! Here our ways divide, but you can catch a copy of her brand new release from Tell-Tale Publishing with one click on Amazon!
Time to sail away again! All my duty to you and smooth sailing!!
Patricia Mattern
Mistress of Madness on The Whimsical Herald
#WeDoMadnessHere
#MistressofMadness
#TheWhimsicalHerald
Time to sail away again! All my duty to you and smooth sailing!!
Patricia Mattern
Mistress of Madness on The Whimsical Herald
#WeDoMadnessHere
#MistressofMadness
#TheWhimsicalHerald
Ahoy me hearties!
As we reach the hind end of the Winter Tempest we are steering a course through the literary seas to the mysteries and intrigue of exotic lands and warmer times. Today we drop the anchors to welcome seasoned Author Elizabeth Alsobrooks aboard The Whimsical Herald. Elizabeth Alsobrooks has a PhD and is a lover of history, mysteries, ancient texts, and mythology. It’s time for high tea on the high seas and our latest Author Q &A with Elizabeth to discuss her newest release in the Illuminati Series, ‘Stolen Secrets’. Stolen Secrets is a genre-bending read that includes elements of mystery ,thriller, paranormal and romance.
“She looked up and into soft blue eyes the color of an English sky in springtime. They seemed filled with tenderness and genuine concern . . . Such beautiful and intelligent eyes, focused upon her with eager intensity. A woman could lose herself in those pools. Many had, she was sure of it.”
As we reach the hind end of the Winter Tempest we are steering a course through the literary seas to the mysteries and intrigue of exotic lands and warmer times. Today we drop the anchors to welcome seasoned Author Elizabeth Alsobrooks aboard The Whimsical Herald. Elizabeth Alsobrooks has a PhD and is a lover of history, mysteries, ancient texts, and mythology. It’s time for high tea on the high seas and our latest Author Q &A with Elizabeth to discuss her newest release in the Illuminati Series, ‘Stolen Secrets’. Stolen Secrets is a genre-bending read that includes elements of mystery ,thriller, paranormal and romance.
“She looked up and into soft blue eyes the color of an English sky in springtime. They seemed filled with tenderness and genuine concern . . . Such beautiful and intelligent eyes, focused upon her with eager intensity. A woman could lose herself in those pools. Many had, she was sure of it.”
WELCOME ELIZABETH ALSOBROOKS!
Q-The mysterious and notorious Illuminati Organization figures prominently in your novels. What is it about the Illuminati that intrigues you and when did you first become aware of its existence and significance?
I've known about it for decades. I'd tell you how many, but then I'd have to kill you--in a book, of course! I do talk about it more in my following author reading video, however.
Q-What travels and pilgrimages have you gone on that inspire your books?
Oh my, now you are digging deep. I have to say that the catacombs, stonehenge, the highlands of Scotland and Ireland filled me with so many ideas and such an intense sense of possibility, mystery, and wonder. One of the settings in The Tree of Life, is set in Sedona due to a vacation my daughter, Krystal, took me on last year when she came to visit me from MI.
Q-What mentors have you had along your journey as a well respected and popular author?
Pulitzer-nominated author Thomas Sullivan has been a friend and mentor for nearly 3 decades. I met him when I was acting as the author liaison for a literacy fundraiser. I have also been lucky enough to have a close-knit critique group of women who I met at a Mid-Michigan RWA meeting almost 3 decades ago. Even though I've moved to AZ I still keep in touch with some of them, and two of them are fellow TT authors, Loralee Lillibridge, who has a Western Contemporary Romance, Cowboys, Castles and Cradles, coming out soon, and Nancy Gideon, whose PR and Social Media for Writers is coming out in paperback soon.
Q-How do you come up with your characters in Stolen Secrets? What qualities do you have in common with Lady Isabella Valentine?
I generally brainstorm a story idea and then people it with characters I feel the story is about. As I write, and I'm a pantser, as the characters come to life they tell me what's happening. Lady Isabella has my sense of adventure. I love exploring new places and discovering hidden treasures.
Q-Who inspired the swoonworthy male character in Stolen Secrets?
Q-The mysterious and notorious Illuminati Organization figures prominently in your novels. What is it about the Illuminati that intrigues you and when did you first become aware of its existence and significance?
I've known about it for decades. I'd tell you how many, but then I'd have to kill you--in a book, of course! I do talk about it more in my following author reading video, however.
Q-What travels and pilgrimages have you gone on that inspire your books?
Oh my, now you are digging deep. I have to say that the catacombs, stonehenge, the highlands of Scotland and Ireland filled me with so many ideas and such an intense sense of possibility, mystery, and wonder. One of the settings in The Tree of Life, is set in Sedona due to a vacation my daughter, Krystal, took me on last year when she came to visit me from MI.
Q-What mentors have you had along your journey as a well respected and popular author?
Pulitzer-nominated author Thomas Sullivan has been a friend and mentor for nearly 3 decades. I met him when I was acting as the author liaison for a literacy fundraiser. I have also been lucky enough to have a close-knit critique group of women who I met at a Mid-Michigan RWA meeting almost 3 decades ago. Even though I've moved to AZ I still keep in touch with some of them, and two of them are fellow TT authors, Loralee Lillibridge, who has a Western Contemporary Romance, Cowboys, Castles and Cradles, coming out soon, and Nancy Gideon, whose PR and Social Media for Writers is coming out in paperback soon.
Q-How do you come up with your characters in Stolen Secrets? What qualities do you have in common with Lady Isabella Valentine?
I generally brainstorm a story idea and then people it with characters I feel the story is about. As I write, and I'm a pantser, as the characters come to life they tell me what's happening. Lady Isabella has my sense of adventure. I love exploring new places and discovering hidden treasures.
Q-Who inspired the swoonworthy male character in Stolen Secrets?
Do I need to say anything more?
Q-Your visually rich descriptions draw the reader into the story very quickly. Was writing a craft you studied or does high impact storytelling come naturally to you?
I have a degree in English, so I certainly read my share of literature, but I think I learned the most about writing by teaching others to write creatively for decades--which included teaching them how to read like a writer, paying attention to what the writer did to make them, the reader, react emotionally.
Q-What is your best one liner of advice for aspiring authors?
Write what you love to read, if you want readers to love what you write.
Q-Who encouraged you to publish your first book?
I had a lot of encouragement, but if you want to know who pushed and prodded me to just get it down on paper and get it done, it was Nancy Gideon. She's the most prolific writer I know and the many fans of her By Moonlight and House of Terriot series are very happy that she is. As one of her Beta readers, I can only say, they've got some tall, dark and dangerous coming.
Q-What early personal experiences contributed to your love of writing?
My love of reading, from under the covers with a flashlight to up in a tree to hide out from my siblings and get some quiet time, I read anything and everything I could get my hands on.
Q-Who are some of your favorite authors?
The above, of course, but when I was young, I read The Bobbsey Twins, Nancy Drew, then Barbara Cartland and Georgette Heyer. Jayne Eyre in Joseph Campbell's hero's journey was the topic of my first college paper. I fell in love with the classics, from Beowulf, Chaucer and Dante to Shakespear, Dickens, the Bronte sisters, Edgar Allan Poe, Asimov and Joyce. I read Anne Rice's vampire series, almost anything from Dean Koontz, and James Rollin's Sigma Force series inspired the action/adventure you will find in my work.
Q-Which scenes in Stolen Secrets were the most challenging to write? Can you give us one of your favorite quotes from the novel?
Easy, the love scenes. It's a romance, so they really matter and since I most often write Urban Fantasy I don't write as many romance scenes, especially with full-on sex, as most romance writers. I'll have to think on my favorite quote.
Q-What future projects are in the works now that your latest novel Stolen Secrets has been released?
Since you were kind enough to ask, I'm well into Book II of my Iluminati series, The Tree of Life and it will be out later this year. To keep up on my progress follow my blog for weekly snippets: www.elizabethalsobrooks.com/blog
SCIENTISTS, COLLEAGUES, ALLIES, AND LOVERS, BUT . . . IMMORTAL ENEMIES.
In book two, the Clans still struggle for control and domination, but the prominent characters are the Vargas Dynasty's lead geneticist, Dr. Kirin Vargas, and a mysterious stranger from a long-lost tribe of ancient warriors whose modern knowledge and technology threaten to crumble the very foundations of civilization and bring even the royal family to their knees.
Dr. Rodrigo Silva, AKA Rio, has some dark, mysterious secrets, and none of the Vargas Clan knew the ancient line of black jaguar shapeshifters had survived undetected for thousands of years, guarding their secrets with powerful magic and developing their telepathic abilities until they rival those of the ancient gods themselves. Ironic, considering they were responsible for his family's curse. And now Kirin dares to ask him for help?
In book two, the Clans still struggle for control and domination, but the prominent characters are the Vargas Dynasty's lead geneticist, Dr. Kirin Vargas, and a mysterious stranger from a long-lost tribe of ancient warriors whose modern knowledge and technology threaten to crumble the very foundations of civilization and bring even the royal family to their knees.
Dr. Rodrigo Silva, AKA Rio, has some dark, mysterious secrets, and none of the Vargas Clan knew the ancient line of black jaguar shapeshifters had survived undetected for thousands of years, guarding their secrets with powerful magic and developing their telepathic abilities until they rival those of the ancient gods themselves. Ironic, considering they were responsible for his family's curse. And now Kirin dares to ask him for help?
Elizabeth with Hudson, her VP of Social Media Now that her children have flown from the nest and remain in the frozen North (AKA Michigan) Elizabeth has retired from her "normal" day jobs and lives with her personal editor, Hudson (AKA Maltese), and her husband, Kenton (AKA Irish-Scotsman), at the foot of the beautiful Santa Catalina Mountain Range in Oro Valley, AZ.
She loves to entertain friends and family from colder climates, or hike the mountain trails, jog, or ride her bike on the miles of walk/bike paths, sit on her patio watching the local wildlife visit her pond, sipping coffee and reading, writing, editing, or brainstorming plots and enjoying the grandeur of her breathtaking mountain views.
Her love of mythology and ancient literature and history were the backbone for her series, and the Sigma Force series by James Rollins inspired the fast-paced adventures (He recently told her at a literacy fundraiser that he found that flattering, as no one had ever told him he was inspiring before!). The result is an action-packed URBAN FANTASY novel series, with its basis in timeless romance, truth, superstitions, mythology and conspiracy theories.
Keep up with her at: www.elizabethalsobrooks.com
She loves to entertain friends and family from colder climates, or hike the mountain trails, jog, or ride her bike on the miles of walk/bike paths, sit on her patio watching the local wildlife visit her pond, sipping coffee and reading, writing, editing, or brainstorming plots and enjoying the grandeur of her breathtaking mountain views.
Her love of mythology and ancient literature and history were the backbone for her series, and the Sigma Force series by James Rollins inspired the fast-paced adventures (He recently told her at a literacy fundraiser that he found that flattering, as no one had ever told him he was inspiring before!). The result is an action-packed URBAN FANTASY novel series, with its basis in timeless romance, truth, superstitions, mythology and conspiracy theories.
Keep up with her at: www.elizabethalsobrooks.com
Offered an enormous sum by an anonymous benefactor for the acquisition of an ancient ceremonial relic, a sum that would keep the antiquities shop in Cairo her father left her afloat while she continued her own archaeological pursuits, Lady Isabella Valentine was distracted rather than tempted, then suspicious, when the dashing young Bedouin slipped in just before closing and promised her a deal she couldn’t refuse--for the very same relic. Despite his sensual appeal, she did refuse him, sending him away.
Prince Mukhtar, son of Sheikh Abdul Kummel al-Rahman, leader of the Hassana, is on a sacred Illuminati mission for Queen Isis to retrieve something stolen from one of her temples over a thousand years ago. This mortal disbeliever though an enchanting English rose, however beautiful she might be, is clearly in the power of the Usurper and must be persuaded to help him, one way or another. But neither of them know of the evil power they are up against, or what hidden dangers await them in the tomb of the high priest.
Prince Mukhtar, son of Sheikh Abdul Kummel al-Rahman, leader of the Hassana, is on a sacred Illuminati mission for Queen Isis to retrieve something stolen from one of her temples over a thousand years ago. This mortal disbeliever though an enchanting English rose, however beautiful she might be, is clearly in the power of the Usurper and must be persuaded to help him, one way or another. But neither of them know of the evil power they are up against, or what hidden dangers await them in the tomb of the high priest.
The Whimsical Herald would like to congratulate Author Elizabeth Alsobrooks on her release of STOLEN SECRETS: Illuminati Spinoff Romance Book 1, and thank her for joining us in the cabin at the Captain's table to regale us with the inside scoop on her intriguing release!
For now we must cast off, so ‘Anchors Away!’ ye land lubbers 'til we approach landfall and explore our next literary lagoon!
--Patricia Mattern, Mistress of Madness and your host
#TheWhimsicalHerald
#WeDoMadnessHere
#MistressofMadness
For now we must cast off, so ‘Anchors Away!’ ye land lubbers 'til we approach landfall and explore our next literary lagoon!
--Patricia Mattern, Mistress of Madness and your host
#TheWhimsicalHerald
#WeDoMadnessHere
#MistressofMadness
Born in Zimbabwe and raised internationally, the Stockholm-based writer suffered a series of artistic setbacks such as a failed school play directorial début, trying his hand at comic books, and writing short stories that mostly ended up in the dust bin. It all came together when he finally achieved a hundred or so pages, and from then, never looked back. Now he brings you ‘Red Jacaranda Leaves’, the first book in the series, ‘The Rites of Passage’.
Avast me hearties! Greetings from your Mistress of Madness P.Mattern!
Climb aboard our seaworthy vessel, The Whimsical Herald, and prepare for a voyage to a land of lush vegetation, tropical breezes, native magic and DANGER! Author Curtis Sagwete is here to launch his brand new release, ’RED JACARANDA LEAVES’!
1. You bring a rich visual background to your novel Red Jacaranda Leaves. Were you inspired by real life travels or experiences?
Oh definitely. I spent a lot of my childhood in Southern and Eastern Africa. I think the book reflects that, particularly the different geographical locations I use as a backdrop for my story telling, and the variations of culture.
2. How did Rites of Passage become a central theme in your novel?
Xolani and Nia’s rites of passages were more or less planned from the get go, however, when I got to the end of the book and evaluated the manuscript, I discovered that not only did I have the literal rites of passage ceremony in Princess Nia, and the journey Xolani and his peers embark on, but also several figurative rites of passages as well. Particularly Gamu and Prince Themba.
3. What authors do you enjoy reading and what inspires your writing?
What I was trying to do when I began ‘Red Jacaranda Leaves’ was draw from my artistic and educational experiences. I think writers like GGR Martin and Ken Follet inspired this book, particularly their detailed worlds. After consuming the ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’ series, I was looking for the same feeling, so quenched that desire with other books in the genre from authors like Robin Hobbs. I think that set me on the fantasy journey that led to ‘Red Jacaranda Leaves’. I enjoy revisiting Chinua Achebe’s work and took great inspiration from it, particularly, ‘Things Fall Apart’. A majority of the books I’ve read are from social science course syllabuses, so I found inspiration from those as well.
4. Do you follow a writing routine, can you tell us something about your writing process?
I usually have a rough set goal, which I write towards with little regard for style and the intricacies of writing. I think the narrative is the most difficult part, so I do not want to interrupt my train of thought with technicalities. After that I go through the manuscript again, improving the language and imposing my style, adding more detail to the environment until I have fully fleshed characters and a vivid environment.
5. What advice would you give to emerging writers who aspire to be published authors?
Write, write, write!! You know, I’ve written so much stuff, some of it mildly amusing, but if you continue writing, one day after you’ve amassed a number of pages, you will know when you’ve found a good story. After that never give up.
6. What were the major influences in your choice to become an author?
That’s a tough question, but as long as I can remember I’ve always wanted to write a book. As a kid I dabbled in several artistic mediums, but I always enjoyed writing the most.
7. In your well-developed cast of characters in Red Jacaranda Leaves, who do you want the reader rooting for?
Oh, that’s an easy one. Xolani and Princess Nia. Readers should also be rooting for Gamu. I think these characters are somehow suffocated by their societal norms and yearn to take control of their own lives.
8. What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of writing novels?
Outside of writing I’ve been mostly doing my regular job and furthering my studies. I’ve managed to get some travelling done, which is something I enjoy. As a writer, I think it’s important to experience things, so I try my best to keep entertained in various ways.
9. How would you like the readers to feel after they finish reading Book One of The Rites of Passage Series?
After finishing the book, I’d like readers to have had a new literary experience. That is what I set out to do, to put my own African twist on the fantasy genre.
The Whimsical Herald would like to thank Author Curtis Sagwete for enthralling and entertaining us with a passage from his unique, awesome, and richly descriptive novel ‘RED JACARANDA LEAVES’! One click this amazing tale on Amazon today and continue this exotic journey full of sorrow, intrigue and mystery.
Keep up with Curtis on his author website when we dock at Tell-Tale Publishing!
Mistress of Madness P.Mattern thinks this Fantasy novel read will shiver our timbers, me hearties! Listen to the author himself reading from his novel!
Climb aboard our seaworthy vessel, The Whimsical Herald, and prepare for a voyage to a land of lush vegetation, tropical breezes, native magic and DANGER! Author Curtis Sagwete is here to launch his brand new release, ’RED JACARANDA LEAVES’!
1. You bring a rich visual background to your novel Red Jacaranda Leaves. Were you inspired by real life travels or experiences?
Oh definitely. I spent a lot of my childhood in Southern and Eastern Africa. I think the book reflects that, particularly the different geographical locations I use as a backdrop for my story telling, and the variations of culture.
2. How did Rites of Passage become a central theme in your novel?
Xolani and Nia’s rites of passages were more or less planned from the get go, however, when I got to the end of the book and evaluated the manuscript, I discovered that not only did I have the literal rites of passage ceremony in Princess Nia, and the journey Xolani and his peers embark on, but also several figurative rites of passages as well. Particularly Gamu and Prince Themba.
3. What authors do you enjoy reading and what inspires your writing?
What I was trying to do when I began ‘Red Jacaranda Leaves’ was draw from my artistic and educational experiences. I think writers like GGR Martin and Ken Follet inspired this book, particularly their detailed worlds. After consuming the ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’ series, I was looking for the same feeling, so quenched that desire with other books in the genre from authors like Robin Hobbs. I think that set me on the fantasy journey that led to ‘Red Jacaranda Leaves’. I enjoy revisiting Chinua Achebe’s work and took great inspiration from it, particularly, ‘Things Fall Apart’. A majority of the books I’ve read are from social science course syllabuses, so I found inspiration from those as well.
4. Do you follow a writing routine, can you tell us something about your writing process?
I usually have a rough set goal, which I write towards with little regard for style and the intricacies of writing. I think the narrative is the most difficult part, so I do not want to interrupt my train of thought with technicalities. After that I go through the manuscript again, improving the language and imposing my style, adding more detail to the environment until I have fully fleshed characters and a vivid environment.
5. What advice would you give to emerging writers who aspire to be published authors?
Write, write, write!! You know, I’ve written so much stuff, some of it mildly amusing, but if you continue writing, one day after you’ve amassed a number of pages, you will know when you’ve found a good story. After that never give up.
6. What were the major influences in your choice to become an author?
That’s a tough question, but as long as I can remember I’ve always wanted to write a book. As a kid I dabbled in several artistic mediums, but I always enjoyed writing the most.
7. In your well-developed cast of characters in Red Jacaranda Leaves, who do you want the reader rooting for?
Oh, that’s an easy one. Xolani and Princess Nia. Readers should also be rooting for Gamu. I think these characters are somehow suffocated by their societal norms and yearn to take control of their own lives.
8. What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of writing novels?
Outside of writing I’ve been mostly doing my regular job and furthering my studies. I’ve managed to get some travelling done, which is something I enjoy. As a writer, I think it’s important to experience things, so I try my best to keep entertained in various ways.
9. How would you like the readers to feel after they finish reading Book One of The Rites of Passage Series?
After finishing the book, I’d like readers to have had a new literary experience. That is what I set out to do, to put my own African twist on the fantasy genre.
The Whimsical Herald would like to thank Author Curtis Sagwete for enthralling and entertaining us with a passage from his unique, awesome, and richly descriptive novel ‘RED JACARANDA LEAVES’! One click this amazing tale on Amazon today and continue this exotic journey full of sorrow, intrigue and mystery.
Keep up with Curtis on his author website when we dock at Tell-Tale Publishing!
Mistress of Madness P.Mattern thinks this Fantasy novel read will shiver our timbers, me hearties! Listen to the author himself reading from his novel!
Red Jacaranda Leaves available in Kindle, Nook, and Paperback TODAY! GRAB YOUR COPY or...walk the plank!
As always steer straight and true and keep your sights on the horizon as The Whimsical Herald and Tell-Tale Publishing bring you the finest literary treasures from the seven seas and beyond!
Thank you for taking this voyage with us, readers!
#PatriciaMattern
@WhimsicalHerald
#MIstressofMadness
#WeDoMadnessHere
As always steer straight and true and keep your sights on the horizon as The Whimsical Herald and Tell-Tale Publishing bring you the finest literary treasures from the seven seas and beyond!
Thank you for taking this voyage with us, readers!
#PatriciaMattern
@WhimsicalHerald
#MIstressofMadness
#WeDoMadnessHere
“I’m just realizing that I want something else out of life and if I’m gonna get it, I’m gonna have to fight.”---Logan, THE VAGRANT CHRONICLES
HAIL ME HEARTIES! Your Mistress of Madness, P.Mattern, is steering a course toward a blockbuster dystopian novel, VAGRANT, the first novel in THE VAGRANT CHRONICLES by author Gabe Thompson. Check out the awesome book trailer!
HAIL ME HEARTIES! Your Mistress of Madness, P.Mattern, is steering a course toward a blockbuster dystopian novel, VAGRANT, the first novel in THE VAGRANT CHRONICLES by author Gabe Thompson. Check out the awesome book trailer!
Gabe has agreed to come aboard THE WHIMSICAL HERALD to tell us of the fantastical world he has created to delight his readers. Let's see what he has to say!
Q-WELCOME ABOARD Gabe Thompson! Reading VAGRANT, the reader might get the impression that the futuristic dystopian world you have created could possibly be a harbinger of things to come in the US—was that your intention?
A. I wondered what would happen if the world was controlled by greedy people concerned only with profit. I imagined how the discovery of a warp-type space drive and planets rich in minerals would effect a world controlled by one large company. The answer was simple. All this company would care about would be profits and making money off these discoveries. Mass conscription of indigent people to mine these worlds would ensue and the spirit of humans would rise and fight this any way possible. People would go anywhere they considered safe. For city people, that meant going underground. We truly think this could happen. Space travel in the U.S. has been turned over to corporations for development. They think there is profit in it or they wouldn’t do it. If something like this happened, the company would need a way to control the population. Corn genetically altered to produce a sedative, was the answer.
Q-What was the first book or story you ever wrote? Can you tell us about it?
A. The first book I wrote is called Soul Taker. It’s a big adventure story. My mother had a theory that the Mayans may have disappeared because they all crossed the Gulf of Mexico and came to Florida. Florida has many small tribes of Indians. Our hero was a cave diver who discovered a sacrificial knife at the bottom of a spring near Tallahassee. The knife led to other discoveries including the bad news that the world was about to come to an end. To stop this, the hero and his friends go to Mayan ruins in Guatemala and the Yucatan. I ended up self-publishing. Soul Taker is available at amazon.com.
Q-Does skillful world building come easily to you? Will it be a part of all your novels?
A. I love Science Fiction. I’ve been reading it since I was a child. My mom and I are both dreamers. We brain storm and come up with all kinds of wonderful ideas together. I recommend partners for all writers. Two people can develop and imagine so much together; more than one person alone. Having another person to bounce ideas off is the key for coming up with and developing believable worlds.
Q-Why do you think your main characters Shayna and Logan feel such a connection even though they are from vastly different worlds?
A. Shayna is Logan’s dream girl. She’s an ideal he believes he can never achieve or have. She’s from above. She’s like the sun and he’s the darkness. For Shayna, Logan is the first boy she’s ever met that isn’t drugged on Sopore. He’s like her; sharp and energetic. He makes her feel alive. She’s been told all her life Vagrants are non-people. When she meets Logan, she begins to question everything she’s ever been told. If Vagrants are real people, then what else her parents and authority figures have told her is wrong? She has to find him and discover the answers to these questions.
Q-Do you find that VAGRANT is geared toward male readers, female readers, or both?
A. I wanted the book to appeal to both male and female readers. In the first book, there is a love story between Shayna and Logan that slowly develops into something serious. It’s written from both of their points of view, so both male and female readers can relate. This is a series. Book two is called Mutant and is geared more toward male readers, but there are several strong female characters and a growing love story between Logan’s best friend, Knock, and Deklan Hall’s stepdaughter, Fenfang. In all three books of the series, I worked hard to give girls important roles and make them self-sufficient individuals.
Q-Which of your characters would you like to be marooned on a desert island with?
I’m married, so I’d have to say Helga, the digital maid, because my wife would find a way to that island and kill me. Helga would also probably be able to help me find a way off the island.
Q-Tell us about your future projects? What works in progress can your readers look forward to?
A. Vagrant is the first book in this series. Mutant is next in the series, followed by a third book, and I am considering offering Tell-Tale yet a fourth. All of these books revolve around the central theme of a company-controlled world and those rebelling against that control. The idea of our world, the newly discovered power to travel to distant planets combined with a profit-driven government is central to all of these books, and I think it’s really interesting.
Q-What take away would you want your readers to have after reading VAGRANT:THE VAGRANT CHRONICLES?
I would love our readers to want more Logan, more Shayna and more books generated inside of this imagined world. When I was a kid, I loved books that created such believable worlds, I felt like I lived in them. I wanted to return over and over, to interact with those characters again and again, and I missed them when the books were over. I want my readers to feel that when they finish The Vagrant Chronicles. I want them to want more.
THE WHIMSICAL HERALD WOULD LIKE TO THANK Gabe Thompson for making us privy to his process and his insights! This is an amazing read and would make a stellar movie! One-click on Amazon will take you on a fast paced journey full of young love, adventure and intrigue! You can read even more about Gabe and how to connect with his social media sites on his author website when we dock at Tell-Tale Publishing!
Mistress of Madness P.Mattern thinks this Dystopian read will shiver our timbers, me hearties! Listen to the author himself reading from his novel!
'Vagrant' by Gabe Thompson available in Kindle, Nook, and Paperback TODAY! GRAB YOUR COPY or...walk the plank!
Thank you for taking this voyage with us, readers!
#PatriciaMattern
@WhimsicalHerald
#MIstressofMadness
#WeDoMadnessHere
Thank you for taking this voyage with us, readers!
#PatriciaMattern
@WhimsicalHerald
#MIstressofMadness
#WeDoMadnessHere
Patricia Mattern
Mistress of Madness
NEWS!
Well, do you have any idea why a raven is like a writing desk?
Lewis Carroll, in 1897, proposed this answer, "Because it can produce a few notes, though they are very flat; and it is 'never' put with the wrong end in front!" (raven, spelled backward, is nevar aka never...or as we like to say here at TT...never more!)
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