Katella Stegmann

Author of: The War of the Werewolves

Book blurb:

The sky was gray. Thunder rumbled in the distance as the storm clouds rolled in.

Tobias looked at me with a grin on his face. He raised his right hand and wiggled his knobby fingers. He extended his razor sharp claws and curled his lip back,exposing his fangs.

“It’s a perfect day to die.”

His words struck a nerve in me. He was playing with my emotions, trying to hit me where it hurt so he could throw me off of my game. A growl built up in my throat.

“You’re right,” I replied coolly. “I’ll make sure that’s etched on your tombstone.”

As an introduction, could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I was an introverted child who loved to escape reality by writing. If I didn’t write I would act out, so writing became a comfort in my life. It’s not what I do. It’s who I am.

What is your book about?

It’s the fourth and final installment in my series about a band of misfit werewolves who deal with every day life drama while protecting their town from those who want to cause their loved ones harm. The series has been interesting to write because throughout the books you get to watch these kids grow up, deal with stress, love, school, and other bumpy obstacles on their journey. It all comes down to a war between good and evil…and anyone is fair game.

When and why did you begin writing?

I was practically writing the moment I came out of my mother’s womb. The moment I could grip a pencil I started putting words to paper. I could see these vivid stories in my head and I wanted them out. Writing is the only thing that kept me out of trouble when I was in school. The teachers knew that shoving a crayon or pen in my hand would keep me occupied and away from dangerous equipment…like the laminator I accidentally got my hand stuck in when I was in first grade.

Writing is a healthy outlet. I loved every second of my troubled childhood. It opened so many doors and has pushed me to become a better person and I believe it improves my soul.

What genre do you prefer to write in?

I like all genres. I will admit that I do lean heavy on the humor in my fantasy novels. Life has enough drama in it as it is, so I like to bring laughter to the world. It’s really fun to write in all genres because it stretches my role as an author.

What is your biggest writing achievement to date?

The fact that I actually published after I was terrified to do so, and not only did I publish one novel, I published three (and four is on its way!).

What inspired you to write this book?

The story came to me eleven years ago when I was sixteen. I was distracted in class and scribbling on a piece of scrap paper while my teacher was probably teaching something highly important. I just started writing one scene and then I couldn’t stop.

Who is your favourite author, and what is it about their work that strikes a chord with you?

I have a handful of people who inspire me. A lot of them are writers for the TV industry. Bill Lawrence, who will have you laughing one second and in tears the next. I am also a huge fan of Joss Whedon. His characters are so raw and real and his dialogue is witty and smart. And lately I’ve been singing high praises to Suzanne Collins. Her Hunger Games series has been on very opposite ends of many a debate. A lot of people hated the later books. I loved them. I thought she did a brilliant job moving the story along without losing site of who her characters were in the beginning. That’s a hard thing to do. She made it a point that her books were more than about teenagers and love. She made it about society as a whole and drew on our negative realities in life. Some of her stuff breaks my heart, but a writer’s job is to evoke emotion. She succeeded.

What book are you reading now, and would you recommend it?

I’ve read it before, but I’m reading it again. Kathryn Stockett’s “The Help” was phenomenal. The way she set the book and made you compassionate about the characters was nothing short of amazing. I felt like I was in the story. I was immersed.

What are your current projects?

I’m finishing up book four of my series and I’m trying to work on releasing a short story with the book, as well. After The Barking Mad Series is done I plan to move on to an espionage thriller. I’m excited about it, because it’s different than all of my other stories.

Where and when do you do most of your writing?

Everywhere and anywhere. Sitting in the car, if a line comes to me I record it for later. Sitting in class, if I think of a perfect way to end a scene I’m writing it down while the teacher is talking. If I’m outside walking my dog I’ll tell my idea out loud to him, so I won’t forget it before we get home. I can write anywhere, anytime, any place.

What would you say was the hardest part of writing your book?

Trying to come up with an ending that satisfies all readers. I’ve known from the beginning how it’s going to end, and I don’t doubt I’ll piss off some fans, but not because I mean to. It’s just not possible to write a satisfactory ending for everyone.

Who designed your book cover – and was the cover something you deemed important?

Absolutely. You want the cover to be unique, creative, and eye-catching. I designed all of my covers.

Did you try to go down the route of traditional publishing first – or did you feel that self-publishing was right for you from the beginning?

I started in traditional publishing and while I was waiting to hear back from agents I decided to do some digging about self-publication. Once I realized how easy it was I just did it myself.

On the whole, how have you found self-publishing?

If you know what you’re doing it is extremely easy. But like a lot of things in life, there are a lot of instructions to follow. I did a lot of research before I self published, and I’m glad I did. Otherwise I would not have been ready for it!

Where can we buy the book?

Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com both have digital copies on Kindle and Nook. There are also paperbacks for sale on Amazon.

Do you have a website or blog where we can keep tabs on you?

I have a facebook page where I update with character quotes, blurbs, and general information as often as I can. I also have a twitter that I don’t use as often as facebook. I'm a terrible internet nerd. Right now I do not have a full working webpage. I am in the process of building one.

Do you have any advice for other writers?

Write what you feel and write for you. It doesn’t have to make sense. You can go back and edit it later. Have fun with your stories. Never get discouraged. Believe in yourself and believe in your writing. Learn to accept criticism, but don’t compromise your story just to please a few people. It’s impossible to please everyone, so just focus on your own happiness. Take a few risks and stand by them. Now that I read that back I realize that I sound like a fortune cookie.

And, finally, do you have anything else that you’d like to say to everyone?

It’s Peanut Butter Jelly Time. Ha. No, in all seriousness I wouldn't be where I am today without my readers. So from the bottom of my heart I thank anyone who has ever read anything I've ever written, from my award winning story scribbled in markers in first grade to my self-published novels that I have out today. It means the world to me that my words actually reach people, that they care about my characters as much as I do. As a writer the only time I have trouble with words is when I am thanking my fans...and that's simply because I don't think I can put into words just how much I appreciate the support.

Bruce Obee

Author of: Scuttlejack: A Damon Quinn Mystery

Book blurb:

When the Ocean Raider vanishes in the Salish Sea, investigative crime writer Damon Quinn isn’t convinced it’s a hijacking. But his skepticism is dispelled by an intensive air-sea search from Alaska to Oregon that turns up nothing—no flotsam, no oil slick, no crew. Four researchers and a fishboat converted to a high-tech science lab are gone without a trace. Then two teenaged sailors are attacked in the night by an unseen boat, and a luxury yacht is torched by an arsonist. Are these crimes tied to the Ocean Raider’s disappearance? Quinn’s answer lies on the bottom of a Gulf Island channel— a Japanese cash-buyer ship, scuttled on the herring grounds nearly 40 years ago.

But locating the wreck of the Kochi Maru is no guarantee that Quinn can prevent the murders of the kidnapped crew. It’s deja vu on the Pacific coast. Harley Bowen, the fisherman-turned-immigrant-smuggler, is back, with the infamous fishing magnate Uriki Kamamoto. And the sleepy Gulf Islanders are blissfully ignorant of the monstrous crimes going down in the ocean around them.

As an introduction, could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

The Pacific coast has been the setting for most of my writing during the past four decades. An author of books, magazine articles, and television scripts, my work is published by National Geographic, Canadian Geographic, Travel & Leisure, British Columbia Magazine, Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine, and others.

I’ve won several international magazine awards as well as Canada’s Leo Award for screenwriting. I’m a recipient of the Governor-General’s Commemorative Medal for “significant contribution to compatriots, community and to Canada,” and one of this year’s nominees for the Western Magazine Awards Lifetime Achievement Award.

I live on Vancouver Island with my wife, Janet Barwell-Clarke. We have two grown daughters, Nicole and Lauren Obee.

What is your book about?

Scuttlejack is a mystery set in the Gulf Islands and waterways near my home on southern Vancouver Island, where I’ve travelled by cruiser, sailboat, canoe, and rowboat since childhood. The oceanic setting is integral to a plot that unfolds almost entirely on islands and channels, on board boats, and at marinas. The book blurb offers a glimpse of the essential story, but Scuttlejack also is about family and a troubled marriage, about overcoming the impossible, about characters with saltwater in their blood and bones.

When and why did you begin writing?

I inherited writing. My grandfather and uncle were newsmen and I, too, began as a reporter with the daily Victoria Times in 1972, at the age of 20. I left the news business in 1977 to launch a freelance career, branching into magazines, books, and television.

I haven’t had a real job since. I have specialized in environment and nature, mainly in-depth coverage of issues. All my work is done on assignment. Except, of course, fiction, which is my newest phase.

What genre do you prefer to write in?

As a methodical journalist, mysteries intrigue me because they lead off with a clearly-defined purpose, move methodically through a series of twists and surprises, then conclude with a tidy finale. I’m a tidy freak: I begin each day with an uncluttered desk and clean up when I’m through. That quirk creeps into my writing. Every article or book finishes with all loose ends tied.

What is your biggest writing achievement to date?

I’ve written 20-odd books and hundreds of magazine articles and television scripts, so it’s difficult to pinpoint a single achievement. As an environmental writer, I’ve covered many issues that have profound affects on Canada’s Pacific coast and British Columbia. I’m not an educator, I’m a story-teller, and my hope is that my stories have helped readers make informed decisions about issues that shape the future of an extraordinarily beautiful part of the world.

What inspired you to write this book?

I’ve spent a lifetime writing illustrated non-fiction, longing for a time when I could create picture-free stories, and have the freedom to say things I’d never get away with in truthful journalism. My short story, The Partnership, sold on the first try to Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine, which encouraged me to believe I could write salable fiction. Factual necessity is uncomfortably confining in good journalism. While fiction must be believable, there’s nothing more liberating than sitting back in a Lazy-Boy chair, dreaming up plots starring people who don’t exist. It’s what all writers want: to never let the facts interfere with a good story.

Who is your favourite author, and what is it about their work that strikes a chord with you?

The late Roald Dahl. I’ve been fortunate to have been published with him in an anthology. I envy his incomparable wit and economic style, moving his stories at a pace where every word is vital to the plot and tone. His Tales of the Unexpected are proof that no one else can deliver so many surprises in so few words.

What book are you reading now, and would you recommend it?

Not Dead Yet, the latest Roy Grace mystery from Peter James. I would recommend all Peter James books.

What are your current projects?

While I’m mulling over the next Damon Quinn mystery I’m working on videos for Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre in Sidney, British Columbia. I’ve written many scripts for Canada’s Knowledge Network, and have been a photographer since my teens. I produce videos that I shoot, write, narrate, and edit—a one-man show.

Where and when do you do most of your writing?

 work in my home office from about 7:30 each morning until around 6:30 p.m., a routine I’ve maintained through 40 years of full-time writing.

What would you say was the hardest part of writing your book?

Separating my own personality from those of my characters, realizing that no two people are alike, that everyone speaks differently, thinks differently, and, most importantly, responds to certain events or situations in the most unexpected ways. To give each character a distinct personality is a challenge that brings credibility to fiction.

Who designed your book cover – and was the cover something you deemed important?

The cover is critically important. I designed the cover, initially compiling several layers in Photoshop, attempting to tell the book’s entire story in one picture. The result was disastrous, as my colleagues and family confirmed. After perusing countless mystery book covers I determined a simple photo portraying a place and feeling worked best. I also got good advice from Amazon on type faces and colours.

Did you try to go down the route of traditional publishing first or did you feel that self-publishing was right for you from the beginning?

My last “traditionally published” book was in 2008 and, based on my previous books, I was shocked at the minuscule investment in promotion. Since the coming of the digital era in the mid-2000s, publishers are shuffling off their promotional responsibilities to authors, compelling them to set up websites and market their own books. With the advent of ebooks and print-on-demand, does it make good business sense to share royalties with a publisher who’s unwilling to invest in marketing your book?

On the whole, how have you found self-publishing?

Self-publishing, I quickly learned, is self-marketing, unless, of course, you’re already famous. No matter how good it is, your book will not sell if you’re not prepared to be seriously involved in self-promotion. Don’t waste your time writing the book if you’re not willing to become completely immersed in the digital (and unreal) world of blogging, Twitter, and Facebook.

Where can we buy the book?

Amazon
North America http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006LAAWJ2
United Kingdom http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B006LAAWJ2

Do you have a website or blog where we can keep tabs on you?

www.bruceobee.com

Do you have any advice for other writers?

Writing a novel, or any full-length book, is a non-stop, all-absorbing, one-year commitment. Serious authors are not hobbyists: we write to be published. Think long and hard about what that entails before committing yourself to the massive task of writing a salable book. Also, write like you talk.

And, finally, do you have anything else that you’d like to say to everyone?

Not long ago self-publishing carried a ‘can’t-sell-it’ stigma, but now some authors are
discovering higher sales, certainly higher royalties, in self-published ebooks. Readers, too, are finding talented authors whose talents were bypassed by established print publishers. Print is far from obsolete, but ebooks invariably offer a broader choice of books and authors. Go to amazon.com, or other ebook websites, and check the fine work of some of the lesser-known writers. You’ll be surprised.

Bon Rose

Author of: The "Old" Adventures of Hailey and Jared

Book blurb:

Hailey and Jared are best friends who have gone on several exciting adventures. Originally a series, I have now put six of their fun but scary short stories together for this book. Each story has suspenseful adventures that always end with a twist. Enjoy!

As an introduction, could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Born in Iowa, I grew up reading the Nancy Drew Mysteries. As a teen I did a rough draft of a short story but it wasn't until a year ago that I finally took my time to sit down and re-write it, and then had it published as an e-short story called Old Jacob. I now have several short stories and one book with the first 6 stories which is called The "Old Adventures of Hailey and Jared". These stories were written with my grandchildren in mind and are based on some adventures from my childhood. I did write one story for adults "Dying to Write" as once I start a story it's hard to stop and it occurred to me that I could do a story about it. I have sold a few and of course would love to sell a bunch more but the feeling of accomplishment when I finished a story is satisfying enough.

What is your book about?

My book is my first 6 short stories of spooky adventures of best friends Hailey and Jared.

What genre do you prefer to write in?

Children fiction

What is your biggest writing achievement to date? 

My short stories and I guess you would say my first story which was Old Jacob

Who is your favourite author, and what is it about their work that strikes a chord with you?

I like Stephen King and the scary fun I have reading his books.

What book are you reading now, and would you recommend it?

Just finished the Firestone Crystal which is actually a sci fi for children. I thought the author did an excellent job. Her book is on Amazon Kindle.

What are your current projects?

Right now I'm trying to put together my 11th short story.

Where and when do you do most of your writing?

On the couch in my home with my laptop

What would you say was the hardest part of writing your book?

Getting started!

Diana Rozevskis

Author of: Crystal Waters – It Began in Europe
 

Book Blurb:

Down in the depths of the Cellar at Fowesby Hall there lies a secret . . . a doorway to ancient worlds. These lands and all its strange and wonderful inhabitants are threatened by a simple mistake caused by Emma and Grace’s Gran.

The girls soon discover the fate of the ancient land of Crete rests in their hands and they are thrust onto a journey, along with Robert, Herman and his purple dog Ceber; a perilous quest full of magic, mythical beasts and unexpected twists. Will they be able to conquer the challenges that lie ahead and find what they seek, before it is too late? . . .

Join Emma, Grace and their friend’s in the first book of this epic tale of mystery and suspense that takes themes from some of the greatest legends of the world.

As an introduction, could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

My abiding love of mythology, fantasy and reading children’s books to my two daughter’s inspired me to begin writing ‘The Crystal Waters Series’ six years ago.
A multifaceted career includes graphic design, child minding and working in top salons in London; Selfridges and Harvey Nichols as a Beauty Therapist. I also studied the ancient art of Crystal Healing and my passion and fascination for Crystals soon developed.

Canadian born, I lived in Toronto until I was five years old until my British parents, yearning to be closer to our family, made the decision to move back to their hometown; Middlesbrough in the north east of England. This is where I live today with my husband David and two daughters Emma and Grace.

. . . Oh and my favourite colour is indeed purple.

What is your book about?

It’s an adventure story, mixed in with a bit of ancient legends of the world.  This first Crystal Waters book (It Began in Europe) takes two sisters, Emma and Grace, back in time to ancient Crete, after they discover their Gran’s magic crystal and the secret doorway down in her cellar.

They have a quest: to save the Gi-fyli tribe (Earth tribe) from the hideous monsters that terrorize and force them to live in the underworld caves. There are some well-known legendary beasts and some that are quite new, but there is never a dull moment for Emma, Grace, Robert, Herman (the gardener) and his purple dog, Ceber.

Along the way, they make friends with the Mer-people and the Fyli-thentro (tree tribe) who help them with the certain tasks, which they have to conquer, before they can move on.

They must find and destroy Gran’s hairbrush, which she had left behind many years ago, thus creating the monsters. Emma and Grace, having similar DNA to their Gran, are the only ones that can do this. So, the search is on to seek it out and rid the land of these creatures, once and for all.

When and why did you start writing?

I was a late starter really. I always seemed to live in my older brother’s shadow in a way, with him being so much more academic than I; straight A’s in most of his exams at school and then on to Uni to take his chemistry degree. I, on the other hand, didn’t work hard at school, as I should have, and my mum would remind me and say ‘Well, I suppose you’re definitely a more practical girl kind of girl.’

However, I always liked to tell a good story. With a good imagination and an eye for detail I was approached, on many an occasion, by my older brother, to help him with his essays for school. I would come up with the story and he would put into, what he called, ‘proper English.’

I started to write seriously six years ago, after I had taken a home-study course in Writing for Children. This course gave me the confidence I very much needed. I wasn’t getting straight A’s like my brother but I received many B plus’ which I never thought I could achieve and so it all began from there really.

Which genre do you prefer to write in?

Although I do like many different genres, I do love writing for children with themes of fantasy, legend and adventure. But I have also been known to write horror stories, with psychological ghostly twists and a bit of gore thrown in for good measure.

What inspired you to write this book?

I started writing this book when I was pregnant with my second child. Whereas some mothers-to-be crave certain foods or go off on their hormonal tangents of uncharacteristic behavior, I, on the other hand, decided to write a book.
The funny story is; I was convinced I was having a boy and so when Grace was born, Adam, in my book, was quickly changed to Grace lol.

Who is your favourite author, and what is it about their work that strikes a chord with you?

Hmm, this is a rather tricky one. I have so many: Tolkien, Lewis, Austen, Grisham, Herbert, Patterson. But I think it must be said, I love JK Rowling’s work most of all. She, to me, can really tell a story in such a way that I get totally lost within the pages. Her dramatic plots and her exceptionally interesting characters, that jump from the pages and shake you firmly by the hand, are without a doubt more superior than I’ve ever read before.

What book are you reading now, and would you recommend it?

I usually have more than one book on the go. It depends entirely on my mood which one I choose to read that night.

I’m reading at the moment:
• Kiwi in Cat City (First book in the Kiwi series) by Vickie Johnstone. This is a fun and magical book.
• Casual Vacancy by JK Rowling. A great engaging book.
• All the Little Children by Christine Sutton. An extremely scary novella that keeps you on the edge of your seat at all times.

Three great books and although they are different in many ways I would still recommend them all.

What are your current projects?

With this book literally on the verge of publicity, I’m trying to organise a book launch for it. This is of course in-between writing book two (Crystal Waters – And on to North America) in this series of seven (each covering one of the seven continents of the world.)

Where and when do you do most of your writing?

Mostly in my dining room when the kids are at school or in bed. However, I’m soon to get my garage converted into another room and so I’ll be definitely claiming that as my den.

What would you say was the hardest part of writing your book?

Although I usually enjoy doing research for a book, it can be at times very time-consuming and sometimes frustrating. I am a stickler to try and get facts right, with not only eras, geography facts, legendary stories and cultural languages. I also like to cross-reference so it all fits into place within the story.

For instance the crystals I have chosen for each book not only comes from the countries origin but they are also used in the crystal healing procedure and placed on the right Chakra of the body. And just in case there are any crystal healing therapist here, that really know their stuff, I will confirm that ‘the Crown’ was used first, instead of ‘the Base,’ as my story does go back in time and felt right to reverse the crystal placing also.

Of course when people read a book, they probably don’t realise just how much goes into it. But, for me, it makes my story feel complete, and only then I will be satisfied with it.

Who designed your book cover – and was the cover something you deemed important?

I painted my lady (Iris) long before I started to write the book and so she has been with me the whole process. It seems on fitting to use her on the front cover really.

Did you try to go down the route of traditional publishing first – or did you feel that self-publishing was right for you from the beginning?

I tried numerous times to go down the traditional route but I, like many others, received many rejection letters to tell me I was unsuccessful.

I even, at one point, came second in a new author competition with the promise of publication. This was of course before the company announced they were going into liquidation and they could not fulfil their obligations.

That’s when I decided to take matters into my own hands and self-publish. I have a story to tell and I don’t want to waste any more time. I just want to get it out there for people to read.

On the whole, how have you found self-publishing?

I must admit, up to now it’s been quite smooth sailing and I’m now thinking why didn’t I do this before?

Where can we buy the book?

You can buy my book at Feed A Read, Amazon and other major book suppliers.

Do you have a website or blog where we can keep tabs on you?

Yes I have a Blog page: http://diana-rozevskis.blogspot.co.uk/ and a Facebook page.

Do you have any advice for other new writers?

If you have a passion for writing and have a story to tell, that you think people will want to hear, get it down on paper and get it out there. But above all, believe in yourself and I’m sure you will one day have the success you deserve.

And, finally, do you have anything else that you’d like to say to everyone?

I think all I would like to say to everyone is; I hope you enjoy reading my book as much as I have enjoyed writing it.

Oh, and thanks for listening!

K T King

Author of: Always There

Book blurb:

Is there a limit to how much friendships can endure or are true friends always there?

Kelly and Jake are the vision of a perfect relationship. Laura, Rachel and Mike are their closest and oldest friends, always lending an ear and giving a helping hand. One fateful day, tragedy strikes and Kelly and Jake's positive future is torn from their hands. Is everything really lost or is there still hope?

As an introduction, could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I was born in 1981 in South Wales where I live with my son and two dogs. I am a single mother and work part time at a local hospital. I love horse riding, reading, writing and spending time with my son.

What is your book about?

It's a story about a group of friends who have known each other most of their lives and a tragic event threatens to tear their friendship apart. They experience love, loss, betrayal and hope as they battle through the tough times they face.

When and why did you begin writing?

I was interested in writing at a very young age. I would sit in my bedroom and write stories for my eyes only. I was fourteen when I attempted to write my first novel. Unfortunately circumstances at the time prevented me from completing it. It wasn't until I was twenty seven that I started to write Always There. I began writing because I found it therapeutic and enjoyed it. It's something I have always wanted to do and will continue to do so as long as I have the use of my hands.

What genre do you prefer to write in?

Always There and my current work in progress are both Fiction Drama so I guess that must be my preference. I am hoping to branch out into other genres in the future.

What is your biggest writing achievement to date?

Always There is definitely my biggest achievement because it is the only one I have published so far.

What inspired you to write this book?

The birth of my son was my main inspiration and personal circumstances that followed his birth have also played a part.

Who is your favourite author, and what is it about their work that strikes a chord with you?

I don't have a favourite, there are too many brilliant authors out there to choose from. If a book can keep me turning the pages and stop me from doing anything else, it's a good one.

What book are you reading now, and would you recommend it?

Their Newborn Gift by Nikki Logan. I am enjoying the book so far, but I don't feel I have read enough of it to make a recommendation.

What are your current projects?

My current project is A Time to Let Go which I am hoping to release before Christmas. I also have a few other ideas floating around for future projects.

Where and when do you do most of your writing?

I do most of my writing in my living room during the afternoon or the evening.

What would you say was the hardest part of writing your book?

I found the hardest part was deciding when the book was ready to be published.

Who designed your book cover – and was the cover something you deemed important?

My sister and her boyfriend designed the cover. It was very important to me and I was impressed with the end product.

Did you try to go down the route of traditional publishing first – or did you feel that self-publishing was right for you from the beginning?

I did try traditional publishing at first but I wasn't aware of the Kindle and print on demand companies at the time. When someone mentioned them to me, I researched them and decided it was the best route for me to take.

On the whole, how have you found self-publishing?

It is a lot of hard work but worth it in the end.

Where can we buy the book?

Paperback and e-book versions are available on Amazon.

Do you have a website or blog where we can keep tabs on you?

I have a website and a blog. My website address is www.ktking.co.uk. My blog address is www.ktkingsblog.blogspot.co.uk

Do you have any advice for other writers?

Keep writing, even when you feel like giving up.

And, finally, do you have anything else that you’d like to say to everyone?

I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has supported my writing. I appreciate each and every one of you. I hope you enjoyed reading Always There as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Scott Colby

Author of: Shotgun

Book blurb:

“Shotgun” has it all. Do you like mystery and intrigue and political machinations and worldwide conspiracies? It's got all that. Elves and demons and trolls and an amnesiac pyromancer with antlers? Check, check, check, check, check. Slightly heavy-handed commentary on the evils of Corporate America? You can't possibly miss it. Magic shotguns, semi-sentient poundcakes, talking trees, and shapeshifters? Oh hell yeah. Are you an English teacher in need of content to stir a rousing debate involving fate and free will, and whether the heroes actually accomplished something or just did what the villain expected of them? Here you go!

Roger Brooks, a mild-mannered family man, is dropped head first into this world when he accidentally takes possession of the ancient magic the evil Witch hid in his silverware drawer. As he grows into his new role of plucky hero in a city of sorcery, Roger will have to determine which of the motley cast of characters he can trust to help him unravel the Witch's dastardly plot. Can Roger stop her from changing the world forever?

“Shotgun” is an urban fantasy magnum opus, the first step in the skyrocketing career of an exciting new voice in the genre. And even if it's not, it's pretty cheap.

As an introduction, could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I'm Scott Colby.  By day I'm the mild-mannered IT guy at a Boston-area non-profit.  At night, I turn into the second coming of Neil Gaiman.  I hope.

What is your book about?

My book follows the exploits of two characters suddenly thrust into a hidden supernatural subculture they never dreamed existed.  After stumbling upon an ancient elven magic that enchants his father's old shotgun, family man Roger Brooks is whisked away to the elven capital where he's faced with unraveling a conspiracy while adjusting to his new surroundings.  Talora wakes up on a park bench with no memory of her past and is immediately recruited by the very conspiracy Roger's dealing with.  When the two finally come together, it all explodes.  It's a lot of fun, and despite that rather ominous description there's a lot of light-hearted silliness along the way.

When and why did you begin writing?

I started writing way back in elementary school.  It was a way to pass the time when I got bored.  I started with silly little stories about my friends and I fighting evil monsters.  Things spiraled out of control from there.

What genre do you prefer to write in?

Typically I write fantasy.  It's a fun genre to work with.  I don't read a heck of a lot of fantasy, so I'm not entirely sure what made me gravitate to it.

What is your biggest writing achievement to date?

Finishing "Shotgun."  This is its fourth or fifth incarnation, the first of which I wrote back in high school.  So for me, getting "Shotgun" out there is a huge deal.

What inspired you to write your book?

It's always bothered me when stories delve into the supernatural and the fantastic without explaining why most people don't know that stuff exists.  If all the vampires in "Buffy" are always causing so much trouble, why doesn't everyone know about it?  So I decided that I'd create a society of elves that keeps humanity in the dark, kind of like how Agents J and K operate in "Men in Black."

Who is your favourite author, and what is it about their work that strikes a chord with you?

Iain M. Banks.  His Culture novels deal with some pretty serious stuff, but there's always a bit of post-modern absurdity involved.

What book are you reading now, and would you recommend it?

I just started 1984.  I haven't read it before.  Prior to that I read "Odd Thomas" by Dean Koontz, which I thought was just ok.

What are your current projects?

I'm trying to put more work into my website (www.istoleyourlunch.com) and I'm doing a lot with a video game humor site (www.dpaddbags.com).  I'm the editor of a very ambitious fantasy fiction project (www.baegtobar.com) and I'm about ten thousand words into a prequel for "Shotgun."

Where and when do you do most of your writing?

I get more done if I'm not in my apartment.  I like to work in coffee shops and bars.  I've started carrying a notebook and pen with me everywhere, and I typically crank out a paragraph or two during my lunch break.

What would you say was the hardest part of writing your book?

Finishing it.  There's so much more I want to do with the characters and the world, and there came I point where I had to just force myself to end this first one.  There's a lot more to come.

Who designed your book cover – and was the cover something you deemed important?

Jeremy Mohler (owner and Art Director over at www.baegtobar.com) did the cover.  He did a heck of a job.  I think it's important to have something that will catch the shopper's eye.

Did you try to go down the route of traditional publishing first – or did you feel that self-publishing was right for you from the beginning?

I didn't bother with traditional publishing.  All the bookstores around me are closing.  Self-publishing is the way things should be, and I'm a huge proponent of it.  Nowadays it seems like you can't get a foot through a traditional publisher's door unless you know someone, and to me that's a load of crap.

On the whole, how have you found self-publishing?

It's fun to be able to just put your work out there without the annoyance of finding someone to back it.  It's definitely not going to make me rich anytime soon, but I hope I can build a regular audience that regularly contributes to my beer fund.

Where can we buy your book from?

"Shotgun" is available exclusively on Amazon.com.  Amazon Prime members can borrow it for free; I still get paid when that happens, so don't feel bad about borrowing it.

Do you have a website or blog where we can keep tabs on you?

You can keep up with me at scottcolbywrites.com.

Do you have any advice for other writers?

Stick with it.  It's hard and time-consuming, but finishing a piece and getting it out there where people can read it is one of the most rewarding experiences I've had.