Top Selling Authors: Get To Know Them Better

Featured Interview With Sophie Toovey

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I was born in Wales, in the UK, and I still live here now. I left for a few years to go to university but I definitely experienced ‘hiraeth’ – a longing to be in Wales again! I’m not a huge animal lover but we have a hamster.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
Books have always been a huge part of my life. I love the nostalgia of picking up a book that was significant in my childhood, like The Wind in the Willows or The Secret Garden. Writing follows so naturally from reading and I always liked to write, but at university, I felt so inadequate compared to all the great writers I was studying that I stopped writing for years. I had a realisation, watching La La Land of all things, that I really wanted to write and I’d given it up, so that galvanised me to restart. That was several years ago and I’ve been writing regularly ever since.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
When I was a teen, I loved all types of romance. In school, I studied Pride and Prejudice and it very much became the epitome of great romance for me. Studying English Literature at university, I had huge lists of classics to plough through… and there were some amazing books I really enjoyed… but I didn’t have a lot of time left for other books, and I also started to feel a bit self-conscious about reading what others might perceive as ‘bad’ (as in, cheesy/badly written) books. I think for many years I went to the library and took out the books I thought I should be reading, rather than always picking the ones I enjoyed. When I had children, I started to claim back some time for myself through reading, and read whatever I wanted to at the time, and that helped me to feel more confident about what I like and don’t like. I still love the library and I’ll always sniff out the latest romcoms, but I also read a lot on my kindle. I’ve been amazed with how many free books there are, due to special promos, or 99 cent deals, so I have a lot of material on there to keep me busy. I’ve also read some ARCs for other authors I met through Instagram, and I have absolutely loved reading Ashley Dill, Drew Taylor and Sara Blackard’s books. They are all Christians who don’t necessarily write ‘Christian fiction’, but I love their perspective. Reading romance without explicit scenes is important to me, so I’m grateful for an increasing movement of writers who specialise in ‘closed door’ romance.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
My latest book is Wedding Bell Time, which follows on the story of Jen and Michael from Bell Time. I just wanted to see what happens next with them, and I absolutely loved writing it! There are a lot of comedy escapades and I really enjoyed using dual POV and exploring Michael’s family background. He’s a lot like me: quite rigid and structured; he likes keeping the rules, and he struggles when things go off plan. The premise is that Jen and Michael get engaged, but Michael realises he’s booked to run a marathon on the same day… and he’s meant to be raising money for a child he teaches who has cancer. The story is about Michael struggling with wanting to be perfect and please everyone and keep every commitment… but he has to learn his own limitations. That’s very much my own story too.

Connect with the Author on their Websites and Social media profiles

Sophie Toovey’s Website

Sophie Toovey Facebook Page

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Featured Interview With Duncan Whitehead

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I was born in Preston, an industrial town in the North West of England, but I was raised in Thornton-Cleveleys, a smaller town in the Blackpool area. Blackpool, amongst other things, is the UK’s most popular tourist destination, a kind of ‘poor man’ Las Vegas. After completing high school and college, I joined the Royal Navy. In addition to serving at sea, I had the opportunity to work in British embassies across South America, including Argentina and Uruguay. After I retired from the Navy, I made my home in London; however, soon, I was off on further adventures when I was hired by a well-known Australian TV producer and his author’s wife to work aboard their superyacht. After seven more years of traveling the globe, I eventually settled in Savannah, Georgia, before I finally (I hope) moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. I’m married, have one wonderful daughter and two equally wonderful step-daughters, and a cat named Mike.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I was an avid reader from an early age. I began reading ‘grown up’ novels at the age of ten and it was hard to find me without a book in my hand. I read extensively when I was in the navy and working overseas and I always wanted to create something myself. I began by writing short stories, which were not very good, but I had no intention of publishing them. As time went on I wrote more, until I eventually wrote my first book, The Gordonston Ladies Dog Walking Club, which I did nothing with for three years.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
My favorite authors include Agatha Christie, Ben Elton, and John Kennedy Toole. I also enjoy JK Rowling, C Terry Cline, Jnr, and Richard Osman. My favorite genres to read are dark comedy and mysteries. However, a combination of both is my ideal genre.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
My latest book, ‘A Cozy Mystery…With Cupcakes and Zombies’ is a parody of poorly written cozy mystery novels. I do enjoy cozy mysteries, don’t get me wrong, but I also love comedy. The book centers around Poppy Darling and her unorthodox methods of solving murders while baking cupcakes in her spare time. It is pure parody, with the character the polar opposite of the usual cozy mystery heroine. She is spoilt, entitled, inadvertently racist, and homophobic, as well as unlikeable. Luckily, she is aided by her sidekick, Chelsea Sweetheart, who is more like a poorly developed cozy mystery heroine. The book is purely tongue-in-cheek and is my first real comedy since my novel, The Reluctant Jesus, won the Reader’s Favorite Book Award for Comedy in 2014. The book took me four months to write; it is short, and if you enjoy satire and deliberately over-the-top characters, then any reader would enjoy it…apart from fans of some cozy mystery writers!

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Duncan Whitehead’s Website

Duncan Whitehead Facebook Page

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Featured Interview With Kimberly Morgan

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
My name is Kimberly Morgan and I’m a Christian. I love to serve and enjoys
empowering youths and women about their identity in Christ and their worth. I believe that they can be anything they aspire to be and has a great contribution to humanity regardless of where they’re presently at. I was born and raised in Kingston Jamaica however I migrated to Canada in 2018. I love to sing, dance, writing and reading.

You can follow me on Instagram: momentswithktm for more information.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I felt a pull and a desire to start reading intentionally at age 30. I was always writting, I would pen meditational pieces for my church in Jamaica at age 15.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
My favourite authors are Myles Munro, Dale Carnegie, Joyce Meyers, Bishop T.D Jakes, Brian Tracey and Alvin Daye just to name a few.
Alvin Daye inspired me and immediately moved me into action. A transformational change took place when I read his book, Today, I can say I am a different person who launched out into the deep.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
The first book I wrote was a devotional entitled “You Are Not Alone”, 21 Day Devotional of experiencing God’s Promises, Comfort and Faithfulness in Challenging Times.

I wrote this book in the pandemic when I was studying in Canada and away from my family. I had just completed college and was unemployed. Due to the travel restrictions, I wasn’t able to travel to even see my family. In order to keep my sanity, I would go to the park and write.
I also loss my brother during this season so writing was therapeutic for me.

On our journey of life, no matter how much we plan, there are some storms that will take us by surprise. Coronavirus is one such storm that we can all relate to. Sometimes on our journey of life, we may feel as if we’re alone and our hearts cry, “God where are you?”
The intensity of the storm sometimes weighs heavily on us like a flower that bends it’s head in a heavy gush of wind.

Different seasons grace us with a financial crisis, lost of a love one, sickness, unemployment and isolation. Sometimes it feels like all hell is breaking loose and breakthrough is in the very distant future. But, whose report will you believe?

Will you believe the report of the Lord, which speaks Faith over Fear?
Will you embrace God’s truth and promises and denounce the lies of the enemy?
You’re not alone in your situation, God is with you always.

Featured Interview With Abhay Singh

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I’m Abhay Singh, hailing from the breathtaking valley of Bir in Himachal Pradesh. Growing up amidst the divine mountains, their serene beauty always provided me with a unique perspective on life. I was raised in the lap of these divine mountains, in the picturesque valley of Bir, Himachal Pradesh. The natural serenity and tranquillity of the surroundings have left an indelible mark on my upbringing. I completed my schooling at Mount Carmel School in Baijnath, where I laid the foundation for my academic journey. Currently, I am pursuing a degree in Computer Science engineering at Chandigarh University . I haven’t had the pleasure of having a pet thus far, but I have a deep fondness for dogs. Given the chance, I would love to share my space with a loyal canine companion.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I wasn’t always drawn to the world of books and writing. My journey into the realm of literature began to take shape around 2022. While I can’t claim to have been an avid reader before, it was around that time that I felt compelled to put my thoughts onto paper. Initially, I found solace in expressing myself through poetry. As time passed, my connection with writing deepened, prompting me to invest more time and energy into honing my craft.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
While I haven’t delved extensively into the works of specific authors, I’ve always been drawn to the enchanting world of fiction. The ability of fiction to transport readers beyond their known realities has always fascinated me.
As for inspiration in my writings, it’s the people around me who serve as the catalyst. The diverse perspectives, unique experiences, and varied viewpoints of those in my life constantly challenge my own understanding. This continuous questioning of my own perspective leads to the exploration of new ideas and ultimately fuels my passion for writing.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
Absolutely! My debut novel is a fiction piece tailored for teenagers and young adults. It delves into the idea that while everyone is the main character of their story, the challenges we face are universal. Life, a potent teacher, guides some, while others find strength within to overcome their enigmas. It’s a narrative of self-discovery, resilience, and the empowering journey of shaping one’s own story.

Featured Interview With Mindy Killgrove

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
Hello, Friends. I started my journey as an indie author long ago while living in a small town in Ohio. When I was just a kid, I participated in Young Author’s Conference, sharing works I wrote containing mysteries, suspense, and romance. I found one of my first books not long ago and I started to wonder if they still have these conferences. I hope they do because I was inspired by that first interaction and have always, always loved sharing my stories with others. Today, I live in Orlando, Florida with my adorable husband and three children who constantly keep me on my toes. I write mostly romance novels, but I represent many subgenres including children’s books, young adult, new adult, contemporary romances, and bits of historical fiction.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I have two very early memories of learning to read. The first comes from a time before I could recall my own age, but I would sit at the table and read aloud “Cinderella at the Ball.” I vividly remembering doing that bit of reading while my mother held up the phone (it was a landline back then) so I could show off my skills to relatives. My second earliest memory of being a reader was when I was in the second grade. My classmates and I participated in the accelerated reader program and that was when I felt like I truly started to remember the content of the books I read. I enjoyed diving into new worlds and meeting fresh characters. I started writing shortly after that–I believe. I’m not a terribly gifted artist, so I used stencils to help draw the illustrations that were necessary. I remember pouring over my work, trying to get the story and the pictures right, then proudly displaying that work to others.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
My favorite author is Jane Austen. My favorite series is the Cheney Duvall, M.D. series that was penned by Gilbert Morris. But the author whose work I have read the most is Agatha Christie. Time and again, I delight is following along with Hercule Poirot, Captain Hastings, and, of course, Miss Marple as they find the murderer and reveal their conclusions. My favorite genres to read are romance and mystery, but I also love diving into historical fiction. I am inspired by nearly everyone I meet. About a year ago, I watched the movie, inspired by the musical “Tick Tick Boom” and I felt a kinship with the main character because I, too, am constantly mining conversations I have with others for anecdotes to use in my stories. While I do specialize in writing works of fiction, my characters, their dialogue, and the conflicts they face come from a real place.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
My latest book is entitled Meet Me at Blessed Creek. It will go live across many platforms this week. It is the third and final book in the Missy Lawrence Trilogy. This book has a unique spot in my heart because I began writing the trilogy almost twenty years ago. I didn’t want to put Missy’s story on the shelf, but life got in the way, I transitioned from one job to another, and before long, I’d abandoned hope of finishing the job I started. But when I sidestepped from ghostwriting and elected to become an indie author again, I knew I had to get back to Missy and her love story. In this final tale, I aim to give our heroine the ending she deserves and I hope the readers are satisfied with the way she finds her true happiness.

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Mindy Killgrove’s Website

Mindy Killgrove Facebook Page

Mindy Killgrove Twitter Account

Featured Interview With Alice Lenkiewicz

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I was raised in Plymouth, Devon. I now live in Liverpool, Merseyside.
Yes, I have a small pet dog, relatively new to the family. He is very sweet. I have had dogs for many years. In October 2023, my dog Poppy of fourteen years passed away. It was a huge shock. They become so significant in our lives. I have actually been writing a book of letters to them called ‘Letters to the Dogs’ speaking to them and reflecting on our lives together. It has been very healing and therapeutic.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I have always enjoyed writing. At sixteen I wrote my first ever book. It was my 1981 Diary. I wrote inside it every day for that year. I wrote about my emotions and my adventures and my interests in music. I am actually in the process of publishing it all these years later. I am very excited.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
In the past I loved epic novels such as ‘Gone with the Wind’ and ‘Jane Eyre’. Later on, I enjoyed books by Toni Morrison and Isabelle Allende and later on still, I began to enjoy experimental Beat novels, surrealist books as well as poetry.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
My latest book is called ‘Shadows and Fury’. I first wrote it in 1995 in Oxford. It was a strange time in my life. I was writing my emotions and feelings down as fairy tales and fables. They are imaginary and surrealist tales about life and dreams and are written from experience and the imagination. It is something a little different. I have illustrated each story. It is available on Barnes and Noble and Amazon as well as Lulu press bookstore.

The characters in the book are lost princesses and sad queens, rebellious brides and vagabond women off on their adventures who have romances or experiences, strange and bizarre occurrences. There are ship figureheads and witches hidden inside trees and flowers that talk and communicate as well as angels and animals. I mix up genres such as fairy tale with Punk, Cowboys and Mermaids, Bad women and gangsters. It’s a medley of my inspirations, kitchen sink drama, meets the postmodern and the gothic fairy tale.

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Alice Lenkiewicz’s Website

Alice Lenkiewicz Twitter Account

Featured Interview With V.Ophelia Rigault

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I am a highly accomplished professional with a Master’s degree in Education specializing in Educational Leadership. With over 20+ years of experience in the field of equity, diversity, and inclusion, I am a sought-after Speaker and Trainer. I am also the owner of Real Talk Solutions, a company dedicated to providing training in equity and diversity to inclusive leaders and organizations.

I am passionate about creating communities of belonging, and I am committed to partnering with inclusive leaders and organizations to foster equitable and inclusive work cultures and communities.

Through my engaging keynote speeches, impactful training sessions, community-building initiatives, and media appearances, I actively promote inclusion, diversity, equity, and access.

Having personally experienced exclusion based on gender and race, I bring a deep understanding and empathy to my work. Drawing on my extensive background as a business consultant, entrepreneur, educator, and mindset coach spanning over 20 years, I possess a unique ability to engage diverse groups of people across various sectors.

My expertise lies in facilitating difficult conversations about race, gender, privilege, mental health awareness, and equity. I empower HR managers, business owners, and community leaders to develop their equity-building skills and create spaces where everyone feels a genuine sense of belonging.

Approaching my work with empathy, compassion, and encouragement, I am dedicated to forging a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
My passion for books blossomed around the tender age of 7 or 8, when I found myself newly immigrated to Canada without my large extended family around me and books became my refuge, offering me the chance to explore new realms and expand my horizons.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
Some of my favorite authors include romance novelists like Danielle Steel and Barbara Cartland from my teenage years. In high school, I was captivated by William Shakespeare, and later on, I delved into horror, crime stories, and classics by authors such as Stephen King, John Grisham, Toni Morrison, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, bell hooks, and James Baldwin.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
The message in my book is that being an inclusive leader goes beyond organizational policies and humanitarian laws; it requires a genuine commitment to promoting equity. That’s why I titled my book “CAREING Leader” with the ‘E’ in the middle, emphasizing the importance of equity in leadership. True caring leadership involves recognizing and addressing historical systemic discrimination to ensure everyone is treated equitably in the organization.

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V.Ophelia Rigault’s Website

V.Ophelia Rigault Facebook Page

V.Ophelia Rigault Twitter Account

Featured Interview With April Tompkins

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I was raised in western North Dakota, but I’ve lived in a suburb of Minneapolis for the past 25 years. I have a three-year-old rescue cat named Sasha.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
Oh gosh, my older sister taught me how to read before I even entered kindergarten, and I’ve been fascinated with books ever since. I only began writing seriously in 2016, but I have been quite prolific since then.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
I’ve always loved true crime. I like following clues and trying to figure things out. And I find real people fascinating. I also read a lot of biographies, and believe it or not US history from around the 1880’s to early 1900’s. I guess I’m eclectic.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
Lies and Love is set in a fictional tourist town in the Black Hills of South Dakota. My main character, Drea, returns home against her will to take over the family store due to problems with her dad. She meets a man who is reviving the town newspaper and falls madly in love. Little things about him begin to nag at her, but she’s convinced he’s “the one”, much to the dismay of her old high school friend, Gil, who would love to be more than just friends.

Lies and Love was completed quickly (for me). It only took about six weeks to write. I don’t write every day, but that still was probably a record for me. Once I got into the story, everything flowed.

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April Tompkins’s Website

April Tompkins Facebook Page

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Featured Interview With Mark Steven Porro

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I’m a New Jersey native (Exit 163) with an Industrial Design degree from The Ohio State University. After years of agency work, my love of acting led me to Hollywood, where I appeared in dozens of television, film, and stage productions. I also spent my twenty-eight years in Tinseltown, entrepreneuring. I started five non-profit companies, but hold the applause, none were intended to be. I now lives in the South of France, but hold your pity. I of sound mind and body chose to suffer in the heart of wine country where the locals insist my French isn’t so bad—at least that’s what I think they’re saying.

I’m an award-winning designer, writer, director, and now an Amazon Best Selling author. I have written lots of jokes, several screenplays, and one award-winning short film. A Cup of Tea on the Commode—a sad, sweet, and funny debut memoir—chronicles my multitasking adventures of filling my mother’s last years with love, laughter, and joy. Though not always successful, I came pretty damn close. I’m a step-father to two rescue dogs, one American, one French.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
My love of books came later in life. But I did start writing early on. I loved writing funny stories, then greeting cards, and then memory books. I have always been fascinated with family history which led me to Italy to dispel a family rumor. I made a documentary of this journey and also wrote a screenplay loosely based on it. My writing came into full gear in Hollywood.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
I love non-fiction best, but appreciate a good story in any genre. David Sedaris is a favorite of mine, also Rick Bragg. Others include Mitch Albom, Anthony Bourdain, W.P. Kinsella, Daniel Wallace, and Joan Didion.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
At 55, I gave up my carefree bachelor life to become a first-time parent to a ninety-year-old, sharp-tongued, guilt-tripping, stubborn as all get out, and yet funny lady who could barely remember my name. My mother. It’s rare for a son to take on 24/7 caregiving, but I jumped in with gusto to fill Mom’s last years with love, laughter, and joy. Not always successful, but I came pretty damn close.
“A Cup of Tea on the Commode” chronicles my multi-tasking adventures. My hope is to not only entertain as there are a lot of fun stories in it, but to inspire others, especially men, to find the joy in caregiving. I did, and I’m a better man for it.

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Mark Steven Porro’s Website

Mark Steven Porro Facebook Page

Mark Steven Porro Twitter Account

Featured Interview With Rev. Iesha Congo Watson

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I am a self published author , mother , wife , minister , Founder of Beauty for Ashes Ministries Inc. and the Jaden Earl Foundation, as well as a motivational speaker . I was raised in Wilmington , Delaware and I currently reside in Bear , Delaware .

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I realized my fascination with books when I was in grade school and at around 10 years of age that I started writing poetry .

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
My favorite authors are Maya Angelou, John Eckhardt , Sarah Jakes Roberts , Stormie Omartian, Cindy Trimm . My favorite genre to read is fiction , narratives , motivational or self help books . Sarah Jakes Roberts inspires my writing .

Tell us a little about your latest book?
A Walk Through the Valley
“A Walk Through the Valley” is more than a book—it’s a heartfelt testimony chronicling my journey through the various stages of grief. Within its pages lie not just my personal encounters with loss, but also strategic insights and inspiring pathways to healing that I earnestly wish to extend to others.

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Rev. Iesha Congo Watson’s Website

Rev. Iesha Congo Watson Facebook Page

Featured Interview With Terri Greening

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I live in Michigan and have lived here all my life.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I’ve enjoyed reading since I was able to read. I think children’s picture books and board books were my first introduction to books. I started writing songs when I was a child, but I think I started writing stories when I was older. I was probably in middle school or high school when I started writing short stories.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
I like to read the work of many authors, especially those who write mysteries and thrillers. I read Agatha Christie novels.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
The Copper Isle Ghostslayer is a paranormal thriller with a mystery, hidden gold, murder and romance.

Layla Devereaux, a nature photographer, travels to an island to try to solve a murder and free her accused brother from prison. When she arrives, she finds more danger than she had imagined as well as ghosts and strange happenings. With the help of Colton Harding, a local businessman, she finds mysterious clues that lead her closer to solving the murder while encountering the supernatural.

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Terri Greening’s Website

Featured Interview With Paula Y. Banks

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
Hi there! My name is Paula and I’m a 46-year-old wife and mother of two sons aged 22 and 21. I was born and raised in New York, but now I live in Norfolk, VA. At the moment, I have a furry friend named Kane who is a mix of Corso and Rottweiler breeds.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
My love for books began to grow in the 5th grade when I became fascinated with the Baby-Sitters Club book series by Ann M. Martin. I was hooked and read every single book in the series. As I entered my 9th grade year in high school, I discovered my passion for writing. I realized that I loved to write stories about various things, and that’s when I fell in love with the art of writing.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
When it comes to my favorite authors, I wouldn’t say I have one specific favorite, but I have always enjoyed the works of Terry McMillian and Toni Morrison. As far as my preferred genre goes, I love reading non-fiction books, particularly biographies. I find it fascinating to learn about people and what experiences shaped them into the person they are today, whether it’s good or bad. Music is a big inspiration for me. I’m a huge hip-hop fan and one of the reasons for that is that I love the clever wordplay and how MCs creatively put words together to create double entendres within a song. It’s an amazing skill, and it inspires me to incorporate that level of creativity into my writing.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
I recently published my first book, titled Peyton’s First Day at a New School, which is also the first book in a series I created called Peyton’s Journeys. The book follows the story of Peyton, an 8-year-old African American girl who is considered chubby by her peers and has been teased and picked on because of it. However, she doesn’t let her weight hold her back, and the story takes us through her journey of dealing with change as she moves from NY to VA and starts a new school. Despite her worries about not being liked because of her appearance, Peyton learns to embrace her differences and realizes that she is perfect just the way she is.

The idea for Peyton and the book series came to me while I was sitting on the couch watching TV one night. Initially, I felt like I was too old and had missed the boat on writing, but then I heard a voice telling me to write a book, clear as day. That’s when Peyton was born, and I was able to write the book in about a week.

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Paula Y. Banks’s Website

Paula Y. Banks Facebook Page

Featured Interview With Ken Winder & Mike Lynch

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I was raised in South San Francisco. I now live in San Jose. I have a cat named Pia.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I started writing in 1981 just after I graduated from high school.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
Anything that has to do with historical non-fiction

Tell us a little about your latest book?
On the surface, this seems like a simple story – John Anglin, Clarence Anglin and Frank Morris broke out of Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary on June 11, 1962, and presumably drowned in the San Francisco Bay . . . or did they? But like many mysteries, there’s what everyone knows, and then there’s the story behind the story. Who were these men and what life experiences and skills did they possess that made their escape possible? And just as important, those who played a part in their escape—famous mobster Mickey Cohen, James “Whitey” Bulger, Bumpy Johnson, exotic dancer Candy Barr, Fred Brizzi, to name a few. And once out, how were the escapees able to vanish without a trace, yet the official FBI report released in 2002 claims the three were sighted in various locations following the escape? The answers to these and other powerful questions are almost beyond belief, and all of them true.

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Ken Winder & Mike Lynch’s Website

Ken Winder & Mike Lynch Facebook Page

Featured Interview With Mindy Willens

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I was born in Chicago, but have lived in California since 2007. I don’t have any dependents (including pets or plants, haha). My passion is singing, and my greatest accomplishments there have been breaking a wine glass with my voice and opening for The Supremes.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
As a child, I loved Dr. Seuss and Louis Sachar the most. I became a teacher, and I use Mo Willems to introduce new readers to the joy that books can bring. I have several books for children that I’ve written, and only two years ago, I started my first book for adults, Date Smart: QuickStart.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
I’ve always been excited by choose-your-own-adventure style books. I brought the concept over to my current work, and I find it enhances the reader’s experience by cutting to the chase, and gamification.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
After tragically losing my little sister to a guy she met online (Nicole Willens 1986-2012; 25 years old) to dating violence, and my own nightmare relationship with someone akin to the “Tinder Swindler,” I decided to create my own dating app to remedy the shortcomings of those available (circa 2015). It broadened my perspective as people of all ages and varied backgrounds approached me for dating advice and access to my collection of resources. That’s what prompted me to author ‘Date Smart: Quickstart,’ a comprehensive dating survival guidebook. It’s packed with essential tips and tools to navigate the dating scene, presented in a unique flowchart format. This interactive approach allows you to “choose your own advice” as you read. I poured my heart and soul into developing a program that addresses the unique challenges we face in safeguarding our emotional and physical wellbeing when we put ourselves out there to find love.

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Mindy Willens’s Website

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Featured Interview With Dr. Artika R. Tyner

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I am a civil rights attorney, educator, and writer.

I was raised in Rondo, a historically African American community. I still live in my community. I work diligently to preserve our cultural heritage and celebrate our roots.

I do not have any pets but one day I will buy a horse.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I realized a fascination with books at a very young age. My earliest memories are reading books with my mother and reciting scriptures with my grandmother. My grandmother also taught me how to read hymnals since she was a gospel singer.

I always wrote short stories and poetry. This is how I reflected on the world around me. It was also a tool for unleashing my imagination. I became a published author in 2015 with the release: “The Lawyer as Leader: How to Plant People and Grow Justice.”

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
My favorite authors to read are: W.E.B. Dubois, Carter G. Woodson, Bryan Stevenson, bell hooks, and Toni Morrison. My favorite genre to read is biographies. My favorite biography is: Groundwork: Charles Hamilton Houston and the Struggle for Civil Rights. I am inspired by Dr. Carter G. Woodson who committed his life’s work to celebrating Black history and culture.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
My latest book is: The Courageous Six Triple Eight: The All-Black Female Battalion of World War II

When the United States entered World War II, it had to face its own contradictions at home. Opportunities opened up for Black people and women in support of the war effort. But ideas about race and gender didn’t change as swiftly. Read the story of the first all-Black battalion in the Women’s Army Corps–the Six Triple Eight–and its leader, Major Charity Adams. These women bravely confronted the racism and sexism they experienced. And they did it while creating a system to make sure millions of letters and packages got to soldiers fighting in Europe. From the Women Warriors of World War II graphic novel series, this inspiring story will introduce readers to heroes who were victorious in more ways than one.

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Dr. Artika R. Tyner’s Website

Dr. Artika R. Tyner Facebook Page

Featured Interview With Isaac Mashman

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
A huge thank you to you guys for allowing me the opportunity to sit down for an interview! My name is Isaac Mashman. I am primarily a businessman, an author, and a huge coffee addict. I was born and raised in Jacksonville Florida and I’m currently living in Little Rock Arkansas. I do plan, however, to move back to my home city and build myself as one of the city’s leading business people in late 2024, early 2025. As for pets? Absolutely. With my fiancé, we have four cats and one dog, definitely huge animal lovers, although they get on our nerves at times.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
Growing up, I was always an avid reader. I had bookcases in my room stacked on top of each other filled to the brim with various fiction novels and series. I can’t say I read every single one of them, but I usually spent at least a couple minutes every day reading, which was part of my routine.

As I got older, my reading was limited to what was required in school, but as I progressed, I fell back in love with books especially those that fall underneath the self-help personal development genre. In regards to writing, being an author was something I wanted to do from a very young age. I remember writing my own version of The Lord of The Rings, and I had a character name, a brief storyline, and got 20 pages in on looseleaf paper. I never pursued it, but I knew that one time in my life I would eventually publish a book.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
As I mentioned earlier, I’m a massive fan of self-development and new thought material. I view writing a little bit like a game of telephone that you used to play in school. By the time the message got to the last student, it would be all scrambled and mismanaged. in terms of personal development wouldn’t you want to go as far back to the source material as possible? This is why in the bookshelf behind my desk, I have various books from the 1900s like The Power of Will by Frank Channing Haddock which I can guarantee no one has heard of.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
I wrote my first book in November 2021, called Personal Branding: A Manifesto on Fame and Influence and I am currently working on an expanded second edition, which will come out later this year. I will be taking the time to go into more strategies and psychological implications regarding one’s personal brand. I’m super excited because I’m able to take all of the knowledge and things that I learned the first time around to make this launch and release even more effective.

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Isaac Mashman’s Website

Isaac Mashman Facebook Page

Isaac Mashman Twitter Account

Featured Interview With McCracken Poston Jr

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
My full name is McCracken King Poston Jr. I live in Ringgold, Georgia, where I also work. I am a criminal defense lawyer licensed in Georgia and Tennessee. I will also go to other jurisdictions on a case-by-case basis.
My first book, “Zenith Man: Death, Love, and Redemption in a Georgia Courtroom” (Citadel, Hardcover, February 2024), is about a murder case in which I was the defense lawyer.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I enjoyed reading as a student, but I didn’t start writing until the obsession set in to write this story. My publisher wants me to write more books, but I am thinking I may have to fictionalize the future ones.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
I always enjoyed the stories of H.G. Wells and the poems of Robert Frost. and I like humor as well. But my first love was historical nonfiction.
Pete Earley, Jon Meacham, Jonathan Karl,

Tell us a little about your latest book?
“Zenith Man: Death, Love, and Redemption in a Georgia Courtroom” (Citadel, Hardcover, February 2024)
From Amazon:
“Was this small-town TV repair man “a harmless eccentric or a bizarre killer” (Atlanta Journal Constitution). For the first time, Alvin Ridley’s own defense attorney reveals the inside story of his case and trial in an extraordinary tale of friendship and an idealistic young attorney’s quest to clear his client’s name—and, in the process, rebuild his own life.

In October 1997, the town of Ringgold in northwest Georgia was shaken by reports of a murder in its midst. A dead woman was found in Alvin Ridley’s house—and even more shockingly, she was the wife no one knew he had.

McCracken Poston had been a state representative before he lost his bid for U.S. Congress and returned to his law career. Alvin Ridley was a local character who once sold and serviced Zenith televisions. Though reclusive and an outsider, the “Zenith Man,” as Poston knew him, hardly seemed capable of murder.

Alvin was a difficult client, storing evidence in a cockroach-infested suitcase, unwilling to reveal key facts to his defender. Gradually, Poston pieced together the full story behind Virginia and Alvin’s curious marriage and her cause of death—which was completely overlooked by law enforcement. Calling on medical experts, testimony from Alvin himself, and a wealth of surprising evidence gleaned from Alvin’s junk-strewn house, Poston presented a groundbreaking defense that allowed Alvin to return to his peculiar lifestyle, a free man.

Years after his trial, Alvin was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, a revelation that sheds light on much of his lifelong personal battle—and shows how easily those who don’t fit societal norms can be castigated and misunderstood. Part true crime, part courtroom drama, and full of local color, Zenith Man is also the moving story of an unexpected friendship between two very different men that changed—and perhaps saved—the lives of both.”

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McCracken Poston Jr’s Website

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McCracken Poston Jr Twitter Account

Featured Interview With Bret Kissinger

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I was born and raised in rural Wisconsin. I still live in Wisconsin.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
My love of writing originated from movies. I saw Titanic at such an indelible age. In a packed theater, I experienced a room full of strangers laugh together and cry together. I was fascinated with the beautiful blend of fact and fiction, and how they used compelling characters to really bring the event to life. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to be a writer. I started writing in notebooks, and then, on the family computer. I’ve been writing since I was nine years old.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
I grew up with Harry Potter, so I owe so much of my love of reading to J. K. Rowling. I remember the excitement of waiting in line on release day, waiting to get my copy of the new Harry Potter book. How I started reading it in the checkout line. I try to read an array of genres. Biographies offer so many potential ideas for future stories. I try to read the popular books, but I pride myself on finding books the mainstream has missed, regardless of their genre.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
The Winter Tiger & The War Eagle is a historical fiction set during the Second World War. It’s the story of the two people from opposing sides of the war. Reinhardt is a German fighter pilot. Kira is a Soviet sniper. Both find themselves in Paris, and as their attraction to each other increases, they are forced to choose between duty and decency.

We view the Second World War through this lens of good and evil, and that certainly is true. But there were good men on the evil side, and there were evil men on the side of good. I have an extensive knowledge of the war, but it wasn’t until I read a biography of a female Soviet sniper, that the idea for this story came to me. It offered a chance to show a different point of view to the war.

Readers can find my books online on Amazon and Barnes and Noble!

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Bret Kissinger’s Website

Bret Kissinger Facebook Page

Featured Interview With Morgan Solis

Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
My name is Morgan Solis and I grew up in the Seattle area. I still currently live in the PNW and use it as an influence in my writing.

I have 2 cats and a dog that I’m “too” obsessed with, and I’d have it no other way.

At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I wrote a Children’s book when I was in Elementary school, and I drew pictures for it and everything haha. Needless to say, I have loved the idea of storytelling since I was very young.

Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
My favorite authors used to be Mary Downing Han, but I don’t read as much anymore, I write more and play more piano these days. I don’t have much time for reading with work going on as well.

Tell us a little about your latest book?
The Backrooms is a Psychological horror book. So while it may not give you cheap thrills, it may give you deep chills.

There are many mixed meanings and metaphors in this book, and I hope for readers to analyze it past its initial plot.