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J.M. Kirkley

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi! My name is J.M. Kirkley and I’m an award-winning author of my debut novel, A Writing Upon the Sand. I write Christian historical romance fiction.

Though I’m originally from Southern California, I’ve grown deep roots in Texas for almost 50 years. I attended college here at Stephen F. Austin State University where I earned a Master’s degree in Counseling. I now practice faith-based therapy.

I’m blessed to call my spouse my best friend, and he and my kids and grandkids are among my favorite people. Our expanding circle includes those we choose to care about, whom we call family as well. Add to this mix, our granddog, Rey, who is a mini sheepadoodle, and a three-legged adopted stray cat named Stockings, and it makes for lively gatherings.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
A Writing Upon the Sand was inspirated by history itself. Years ago, I viewed a 1900 chromolithograph entitled 1900 Galveston Hurricane and Tidal Wave. The scene depicted waves the size of houses crashing, timber piling between toppled houses, people being pulled up onto rooftops, bodies tossed in the waves. I was spellbound, wondering how I had lived in Texas for more than a decade at the time and knew nothing about the Storm. I remember telling my spouse, “If I ever write a book, that would be the backdrop.”

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I keep notebooks handy throughout the house. I write down scenes and dialog as it comes to me. Ironically, it doesn’t always happen in chronological order.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Author Michelle Griep’s book, Writer Off the Leash: Growing in the Writing Craft, challenged me to edit out any scenes or chapters that didn’t move the plot along. I took her advice and bravely cut out chapter one, which bogged down my story. I sprinkled the necessary family background from that chapter into other chapters and it transformed my novel.

What are you working on now?
I am currently doing research for my next historical novel. This will be in a later era: the 1940’s.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I love to give my ebooks away quarterly on Amazon KDP. Not only do I get the pleasure from sharing my work, but I’ve gained over 100 book reviews in the process.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Gather a group of advanced readers that will give you honest feedback on your unpublished book. I asked mine what they liked, what annoyed them, and what confused them about my story. I edited my manuscript accordingly. It strengthened my novel.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
In Stephen King’s book On Writing, he wrote something that has stuck with me. “If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot. There’s no way around these two things that I’m aware of, no shortcut.” These two things are like bookends for me.

What are you reading now?
Nicole Deese’s The Words We Lost.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m about to begin writing a sequel to A Writing Upon the Sand. It’s set in Galveston, Texas, in 1947. It’s the year of the greatest industrial disaster in US history. It happened right across the Bay from Galveston: The Texas City Disaster.

What is your favorite book of all time?
Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is my favorite among the classics.

Author Websites and Profiles
J.M. Kirkley Website
J.M. Kirkley Amazon Profile
J.M. Kirkley Author Profile Other Bookseller

J.M. Kirkley’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Pinterest Account

Arianna Eastland

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a native New Englander whose first book was published in 2012, but I started writing it long before that because I had a bad habit of editing my book every time I even so much as glanced at it! To date, I have written four historical romances, all connected because they follow the same two families, the Chandlers and the Corwins, in 17th-century New Hampshire.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The title of my most recent book, “Destiny Is Not An Easy Road,” actually was inspired by a review about my first book, “Too Far to Whisper.” The reviewer wrote: “Our destiny is not always an easy road traveled, but the prize is always worth reaching. A beautiful love story.”

It’s a time-travel book where a young woman who is strong and independent is transported back to the 1600s to a town near Boston. The actual plot of the book came to me during the pandemic quarantine while I was sitting at home and thinking, “I wish something exciting would happen! I’m SO bored!” That’s when I thought it might be fun to write a book where the main character wishes she could be somewhere far away from the pandemic…and ends up getting transported much farther away than she ever could have imagined. As the old saying goes…be careful what you wish for!

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My favorite time to write is from 3 AM to 8 AM (I usually sleep from 11 AM to 6 PM). Before I start writing a new book, I always know how it will begin and end, but I never think about the actual plot of the book or its twists or angst in advance. I just write those as I go along and hope for the best!

What authors, or books have influenced you?
My biggest influence was author Kathleen Woodiwiss. I have read every one of her historical romances and was devastated when she passed away in 2007. I feel as if I’ve been suffering from withdrawal ever since!

What are you working on now?
I hibernate during the winters here in New England, so that’s when I do most of my writing. It’s summer right now, so I’m not currently working on any writing projects because I’m too busy enjoying the outdoors, especially hiking.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I promote my books on my blog. Several of my friends also promote them on theirs, which really helps. But for writers such as I, who have very limited budgets for promoting books, I highly recommend Kindlepreneur’s 127+ of the Top Free and Paid Book Promotion Services. It’s a free list and I have used it religiously since day one, with great success. In fact, that’s where and how I found this site!

Do you have any advice for new authors?
If possible, write a series of at least three books and publish them at the same time, then offer the first book free to attract readers. It’s difficult for new writers to stand out otherwise, as the competition is extremely fierce. Be sure to also insert the links to the sequels so the readers easily can click on them right away after they finish each book…while the plot is still fresh in their minds. It really has worked for me.

My other advice is to write because you enjoy it and also think it’s rewarding just to know people are reading your stories. If you become an author for the sole purpose of earning a lot of money, you’re likely to end up being very disappointed.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I always was in the habit of writing a page, then immediately editing it. This slowed my progress and interrupted my thought process. A successful writer then advised me to just sit down and write my book as my thoughts flowed…and not to edit a word until after I finished the final page! He said it was more important to get my thoughts and ideas written down, mistakes and all, without interruptions, than to try to perfect every page as I went along. So I tried his method, even though it was torture for me not to recheck every page as I wrote it. But he was right. My thoughts flowed much easier and the plots made more sense with fewer discrepancies when I wasn’t constantly backtracking.

What are you reading now?
I’m reading a sci-fi romance called “Inside the Blue Cube,” by Sally Breslin. So far, it’s made me laugh out loud – and also cry my heart out!

What’s next for you as a writer?
There has been some interest expressed in adapting one of my books into either a film or a TV series, so I’m waiting to hear more about that!

What is your favorite book of all time?
“Flowers For Algernon” by Daniel Keyes

Author Websites and Profiles
Arianna Eastland Website
Arianna Eastland Amazon Profile

Kimberley Hall

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve always been an avid reader and have loved creating stories of my own since as long as I can remember. I recently published my first book, a work of fiction this past July. I definitely feel like I have more than just one story to tell…in fact book two is currently in the writing process.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
A Journey of A Thousand Miles – A Reflections Saga
I was inspired to write it after experiencing all that I have throughout my own personal journey. I grew up with many psychic abilities in a household that was deeply religious. Life was not always easy for me. There were many terrifying and painful experiences throughout my lifetime, and I feel like these sorts of things aren’t talked about enough. There are many children living in a world who are “different” in some way. My story is definitely a relatable one for many people and I feel that it has the ability to inspire others, to comfort and encourage those who may not quite understand what’s happening to them or has happened to them and to find solace in knowing that they are not alone. I wanted to give a voice to the voiceless. I also wanted to speak to the power of love, loss, forgiveness and most of all overcoming the most insurmountable odds.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
If I do I’m unaware of what they might be.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
James Patterson, Harlen Coben, J R R Tolkien, Nichola Sparks, Stephen King and the likes

What are you working on now?
Right now I am working on a couple of books. One involves self realization of limitless potential. I’m also working on some ideas with my husband who is also an author.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I love meeting and connecting with people so definitely talking about my work on social media, connecting with readers, authors, book bloggerd and aspiring authors. Networking is one of my favourite things to do! Telling friends and family of course helps too, because if you are excited then you can bet that they will be too.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
If writing is truly your passion and it brings you joy, never give up. How many times was Stephen King told NO before he finally got that YES?! We look up to all of these prolific writers who have come before us. Some of us may even idolize them and think “well I’m never going to be that good” but how quickly we forget that EVERYONE started somewhere! So just do what you do best and focus on where you are trying to go. Your stories are magic. They are your own creation and that is always something the world needs to see.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Oftentimes we all come across this scenario at one stage in life or another. We come up with all these wonderful ideas of the things we want to do, places we want to go etc and we become excited at the prospects, but then that excitement is extinguished either through self doubt, fear of change, fear of not being good enough etc OR maybe someone tells us that we can’t do the thing that brings us so much joy…eventually, we start to believe them and before we know it we let it define us and we never do the thing. The best advice I have ever gotten is that if something brings you joy, feed it, water it and continue to nurture it. If you don’t know where to begin…just BEGIN. Every step forward is in the direction you are trying to go and that is the start of something
beautiful. As the old ancient Chinese proverb says “A journey of a thousand miles…begins with a single step!

What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading over manuscripts of other soon to be authors. I believe in giving back and offering support wherever I can. I’m all about helping someone achieve their goals.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I have quite a few plans in the works, both individually and collaboratively. There is so much creativity flowing through me that you definitely haven’t heard the last of me 🙂

What is your favorite book of all time?
Off the top of my head? I can’t think of a title that comes to mind.

Author Websites and Profiles
Kimberley Hall Amazon Profile

David Scott Richardson

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
After teaching sixth grade for twenty years, I found the time and motivation to write. I previously held positions in mental health and legal services and worked with developmentally disabled people. When I’m not writing, I enjoy puttering, yardening, cooking, and salmon fishing, or going out for lunch. Overall, I drift along with the river current much like Alex does – the central character in my first novel, River’s Reach: Coming of Age Amid the Fish War. An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze is my second book.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze; Because my father was killed in WWII, the war has always been an interest. At some point, the idea of somebody lighting fires during the mandatory blackouts in Seattle captured my imagination. As a former teacher, I know first-hand how inadequate we are at teaching civics and history, especially to young people, hence teenage readers became my target audience.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My best thoughts seem to come up just as I’m drifting off to sleep.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Hemmingway, Steinbeck, and Vonnegut, but name recognition is not essential. Any author who can suck me in and keep me reading is a big hit with me.

What are you working on now?
I’m noodling around with some silly children’s stories I wrote years ago.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
https://books2read.com/An-Empty-House-Doesnt-Sneeze and https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDavidScottRichardson (#AnEmptyHouseDoesntSneeze)

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just keep at it. Write every day if you can, and eventually you’ll discover you have something interesting to say. Also – and this is key – find yourself a good editor! Writers sometimes write themselves into a corner and might remain there if not for an excellent editor. A good editor is not just someone who knows the language. They also have the intuition to decipher the subtleties of the story. These skills would be all but meaningless if your editor isn’t also someone that’s easy to work with and with whom you can develop a rhythm for moving the story forward.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Just write whether you feel like it or not.

What are you reading now?
The Hundred Years’ War On Palestine by Rashid Khalidi

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m letting the children’s stories I played around with years ago percolate on the back burner and will soon discover whether they’re ready for another round.

What is your favorite book of all time?
Joseph Heller’s Catch -22

Author Websites and Profiles
David Scott Richardson Website
David Scott Richardson Amazon Profile

David Scott Richardson’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile

Ginger Nicole

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
The gift of storytelling was given to me in an unexpected way…. tragedy. After my fiancĂ© wrecked a motorcycle that left him paralyzed for life, we decided to get married much sooner than planned. We were 20 years old, broke, navigating a new normal and trying to figure out this difficult thing called adulthood.
Through endless heartbreaking moments, we decided to try something different than what we had always done. Before, we would face a new challenge by cursing God and blaming Him. But one day we chose instead to ask “OK God, what lesson are we supposed to learn from this difficulty?” Changing our perspective to find God’s truth opened our lives up for transformation only He can bring. My husband and I have been together over 33 years and have four children. I have written two books – one children’s book and one novel.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest novel, Celestial Desires with Evil Inclinations, was inspired by my search for understanding my free will and how God’s timing works in a world where I can constantly make my own choices in how I live my life. Do my bad choices cause God to leave me? Do my good choices cause God to love me? Does God still hold me securely in His hands even when I mess up? This novel was written while I was on the journey of discovering how far will God pursue me.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Ted Dekker is my most favorite author.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Stick with it and finish the book!

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Take the journey with your characters. Become them and connect with them.

What is your favorite book of all time?
Code Name Ginger: The Story Behind Segway and Dean Kamen’s Quest to Invent a New World by Steve Kemper

Author Websites and Profiles
Ginger Nicole Website
Ginger Nicole Amazon Profile

Esme Ralda

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am fairly new to the amazing world of “words”. I love to get lost in different places, situations and characters, which is what we find in each & every story or book we read. I have tested the waters by reading multiple genres, but my preferred ones are Romance & Fantasy. As a writer and a new one at that, I plan to try my hand at different things, but mostly I feel Romance is what I will be mostly focused on writing. And Romance in itself has so many sub-genres for me to explore. I hope you love the stories I weave for you. Kindly do leave your feedback as reviews as that will surely motivate me to create even more beautiful stories for you. After all what more does a storyteller need, than a rapt audience willing to listen?

I have recently published my very first novella, which is an Erotica named Banging the Bouncer.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My debut book is named Banging the Bouncer and is an erotic novella. I wanted to try my hand at writing an erotica as I like reading steamy Romances at times and wanted to see whether I could bring fire to such scenes myself.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I am pretty flexible as far as writing is concerned… my only problem is consistency, there is no regular pattern I follow.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I read all kinds of Romance and Fantasy books, and there are too many authors and books that I like to be able to name just a few.

What are you working on now?
I am presently working on a Contemporary YA Romance.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Still rather new and presently struggling to promote….Hope “Pretty-Hot” turns out to be one of the best ones for me.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
If you love writing, then just write…..don’t let anything stop you from telling your story.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
No time can be called as the right time to do something, so don’t let ‘time’ or age be a reason to stop you from doing something you really want to do.

What are you reading now?
The Bride of the Shadow King by Sylvia Mercedes

What’s next for you as a writer?
More readers who love my work, and more books by me for them.

What is your favorite book of all time?
Tooooooo many to just name a few.

Author Websites and Profiles
Esme Ralda Amazon Profile

Esme Ralda’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile

Ronald Schulz

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have three books published and two more awaiting publication by Tumbleweed Books. They are part of a series of memoirs to cover my adventurous life experiences around the world.
My latest book is HOME AT THE EDGE, a sequel to CHICAGO RAGE, and PARTY AT THE EDGE OF THE RAINBOW about the CHICAGO WHITE PANTHERS, and TEENAGE RUNAWAY will be released soon.
I was born in Chicago in 1952, the oldest and only boy with 5 sisters, and now live in Seattle, Washington, but I’ve lived and worked in many places over the years, from hippie communes to urban slums.
At 15 I ran away to New Orleans and dropped out to explore the counterculture before hitchhiking across Europe and Africa, working and loving my way on a roundabout Buddhist pilgrimage to Nepal.
My wife and I continue to wander the globe, but more comfortably and less adventurously these days. I am the father of two grown kids and a grandfather of three, so even though I’m 72 and semi-retired, I cannot just grab a rucksack and go like I used to. Writing about my times and experiences was always in the back of my mind. In the 1980s I began jotting notes and even submitted a short story to a student magazine, which they accepted, but as luck had it, that issue never got published and I’d given them my only copy. It was only after my circumstances became more settled and I took a university class in memoir writing, that I began to write with more determination and submit my efforts to peer review.
History and true stories have always been my obsession, although I’m often advised that objective truth is elusive and “there is no such thing as nonfiction.” I like to examine the psychology and motivation behind events, and we all hide behind masks, even from ourselves. To expose our hidden motivations, we must strip away our fictional defenses, and reveal our naked truths. I write memoirs that read like novels, creative nonfiction that brings the reader into an emotional identification with the protagonists.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is HOME AT THE EDGE, a sequel to CHICAGO RAGE, which picks up where the fist left off, from my arrest in the Chicago SDS riot and details my ten days in Cook County jail and several months in a mental hospital, which turned out to be an exciting place, full of radical hippies I could identify with. My clear memories are augmented by copies of my hospital record and the memories of those who shared my experience after we reunited years later. Too many of my friends committed suicide and I felt that describing our experience could help others who find themselves in similar situations.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Coffee helps. I need to be fired up to write effectively, and my memory of the events and the person I was at the time might be overshadowed by the excuses I’ve made to myself. But then, as I walk away from the desk and do other things my mind continues to mull it over and bring forgotten aspects of the story into better focus. These are brainstorms that I need to jot down before I forget. Back at my desk, I can incorporate the notes to flesh out and enlarge the story I’m writing about.
Therefore, I find that taking breaks from writing can refresh and improve the result.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
True stories, honest memoirs, and historical accounts have influenced me the most. Rudi Vrba’s I CANNOT FORGIVE which I read at age 13 made a big impact on me and gave me courage when the chips were down. Viktor Frankl’s MANS SEARCH FOR MEANING had a similar effect, but I didn’t limit myself to the historical “good guys” in history. STUKA PILOT by Hans Rudel, and THE FORGOTTEN SOLDIER by Guy Sajer, tell of idealistic heroism fighting for the wrong side in World War Two. While many of my favorite authors were from that era, I was also fascinated by the writings of and about Richard Burton, the Victorian explorer of Africa.

What are you working on now?
I’m finishing my account of Karma Farm, an organic farming commune that was home to me throughout most of the 1970s and was the springboard for many of the adventures and romantic relationships that I enjoyed during that time, however, I’m also scribbling notes on follow up books about my travels across North Africa and Asia, to be better focused on later.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Good question. I’m not sure as yet.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice to writers is, “Don’t push yourself too hard, let the ideas flow as easily as squirting toothpaste from a tube.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Smile, don’t take yourself too seriously even when your life is on the line.

What are you reading now?
I just finished Some People Need Killing: A Memoir of Murder in My Country, by Patricia Evangelista, and Soldiers and Kings by Jason De Leon. Both books are recommended by me to make sense of our current political reality.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Death is on the horizon, as it is for all of us. That realization keeps me going to finish what I need to do to make this life fulfilling and shareable.

What is your favorite book of all time?
I cannot narrow it down that far, love ’em all.

Author Websites and Profiles
Ronald Schulz Website
Ronald Schulz Amazon Profile
Ronald Schulz Author Profile Other Bookseller

Ronald Schulz’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Julian Stokoe

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m Julian Stokoe, an animation director and kids’ picture book author. I have a passion for creating unique, edgy, and humorous stories that captivate young readers. So far, I have written six print books and 3 others as interactive book apps.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is titled “Yo Peko! Guess What?” It was inspired by the classic game of telephone and the hilarious mix-ups that can happen when messages get passed around. I wanted to create a story that not only entertains but also shows the trouble that can come from miscommunication.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
One of my unusual writing habits is that, instead of writing down my ideas during brainstorming sessions, I doodle them as pictures. The stories are usually for picture books anyway, but sketching out characters and scenes first helps me visualize the story.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Dr. Seuss for his imaginative worlds, Roald Dahl for his dark humor and unforgettable characters, Maurice Sendak for his ability to capture the wildness of childhood, and Spike Milligan for his absurd and witty humor.

What are you working on now?
Currently, I’m working on an activity book based on the characters and worlds of “Yo Peko!” and brainstorming ideas for my next picture book (possibly one about cryptid creatures).

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve found TikTok to be fantastic for promoting my animated work, so I’m planning to create some short videos about Yo Peko and see if I get the same results. Additionally, Yoozoo.nz serves as a central hub for all my projects and updates.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice for new authors is to stay true to your unique voice and vision. Find a way to write something quick and get it out there. Also, don’t give up – while there’s a small chance your work will break through if you finish it, there’s a 0% chance if you don’t.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve ever heard is to follow your bliss and move in the direction of least resistance. Passion and enthusiasm for your subject matter will shine through in your writing and resonate with readers.

What are you reading now?
Right now, I’m reading lots of books about myths and legends.

What’s next for you as a writer?
I’ve got a stack of unfinished ideas and projects from other mediums that I’m looking forward to finishing and adapting. But first is an activity book based on the characters and world of “Yo Peko! Guess What?”

What is your favorite book of all time?
My favorite book of all time is “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak. Its imaginative story and captivating illustrations have always inspired me and influenced my own work.

Author Websites and Profiles
Julian Stokoe Website
Julian Stokoe Amazon Profile

Julian Stokoe’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

Shamree Williams

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m Shamree! I was born and raised in Texas and currently reside in Texas. I’m a mom of five and we have a pet bearded dragon, Eliza. I work as a mental health therapist with a specialty in trauma. I love nature, listening to music, and tea. My favorite flowers are roses and orchids. My favorite color is black and I love Mexican cuisine.

To be honest, I’ve just written my first book. It may not be my last!

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My book is “Transmuting Trauma: The Therapist’s Story.” What inspired me to write my book connects to my work as a therapist and my own traumatic upbringing. I realized just how much my childhood trauma dictated what my adult life consisted of. I identified a cycle that I desired to change and I did that. Once I did that for myself, I wanted to share my story with the world. My story is raw and very touching but I what I intend for others to get from it is that healing is possible and we all heal in our own way. I desired to share my story so others could adopt tips to assist them on their own healing journey. I inspired my own writing! I wanted my story to reach millions in hopes to change the lives of millions!

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I haven’t identified any yet!

What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love reading books on spirituality and I absolutely love Bessel van der Kolk’s The Body Keeps the Score!

What are you working on now?
Since I have just written my first book and am still working on promoting and getting it out there, I am not currently working on a new book. I would like to gain exposure with my newly published book before considering another work.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I haven’t found any just yet, unfortunately.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
For new authors, I’d suggest taking your time, going with what your heart desires, and have fun with what you are working on! Also, make sure there’s a force behind your writing!

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
If nothing changes, nothing changes. Create the change you would like to see.

What are you reading now?
Right now, I am reading my own book! =)

What’s next for you as a writer?
Taking a short break to promote my book and inspire and motive others to heal.

What is your favorite book of all time?
I love the Twilight series!

Author Websites and Profiles
Shamree Williams Amazon Profile

Shamree Williams’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile

SUZANNE Kelman

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello. I’m Suzanne Kelman, an Amazon bestselling author with a passion for crafting captivating World War II historical fiction. I have written 17 books and am about to publish book 12. My books have reached readers across America, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, selling over 450,000 copies worldwide and securing 10 rights deals across eight territories. I’m proud to be published by Bookouture, an imprint of Hachette U.K.

In addition to my historical novels, I’ve written the popular “The Rejected Writers’ Book Club” series published by Lake Union. This series also includes “Rejected Writers Take the Stage” and “The Rejected Writers’ Christmas Wedding.”

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“The Last Day in Paris” it was inspired by the real-life story of Rose Valland, who saved thousands of pieces of art from the Nazis during World War II.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
As a writer, I have a few unique habits that help me stay productive and inspired. One of my favorite routines is having the computer read to me every morning. This practice gets my creative juices flowing and immerses me in the rhythm of storytelling.

I aim to write 2000 words a day, five days a week. This consistent schedule keeps me on track and allows me to maintain a steady flow of ideas and progress in my projects. Whether I’m diving into the intricacies of World War II historical fiction or crafting a light-hearted scene for “The Rejected Writers’ Book Club,” this routine helps me stay focused and motivated.

What authors, or books have influenced you?
Kate Morton and Agatha Christie

What are you working on now?
“The Bookseller of Paris,” the second book in my series, will be published on August 5th. Additionally, I’m currently working on the third book in the Paris Sisters series.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Amazon

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write Regularly: Set a daily or weekly writing schedule and stick to it. Consistent writing helps develop your skills and keeps you in the habit of creating.

Read Widely: Read a variety of genres and authors to understand different writing styles, narrative techniques, and storytelling approaches.

Revise and Edit: Writing the first draft is just the beginning. Revise your work multiple times to improve clarity, coherence, and overall quality. Don’t be afraid to make significant changes.

Learn the Craft: Study the elements of storytelling, character development, plot structure, and pacing. There are many resources, including books, online courses, and workshops, to help you improve your craft.

Stay Persistent: Writing can be a long and challenging process. Stay committed to your goals, even when faced with setbacks or rejections. Persistence is key to success.

Market Yourself: Build an online presence through social media, a personal website, or a blog. Engage with your audience and fellow writers to create a network and promote your work.

Set Realistic Goals: Break down your writing projects into manageable tasks with clear deadlines. This helps you stay organized and motivated.

Enjoy the Process: Writing should be enjoyable and fulfilling. Embrace the journey of creating stories and bringing your ideas to life.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Your first draft has only one job to do: exist. It doesn’t need to be perfect or polished; it just needs to capture your ideas and put them down on paper.

What are you reading now?
Gift from the Sea

What’s next for you as a writer?
Once I complete the Paris Sisters series at the end of 2026, I plan to self-publish several books I’ve finished but haven’t yet published.

What is your favorite book of all time?
The Night Circus

Author Websites and Profiles
SUZANNE Kelman Website
SUZANNE Kelman Amazon Profile
SUZANNE Kelman Author Profile Other Bookseller

SUZANNE Kelman’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account

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