Home by Thriller Writer Harlan Coben

Posted on by Benjamin Thomas

 

 

 

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Home by Harlan Coben

 

 

  • File Size: 1005 KB
  • Print Length: 397 pages
  • Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0525955100
  • Publisher: Dutton (September 20, 2016)
  • Publication Date: September 20, 2016
  • Sold by: Penguin Group (USA) LLC
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B01COJUGOE

 

 

HOME  according to Goodreads

Ten years after the high-profile kidnapping of two young boys, only one returns home in Harlan Coben’s next gripping thriller, to be published in September 2016.

A decade ago, kidnappers grabbed two boys from wealthy families and demanded ransom, then went silent. No trace of the boys ever surfaced. For ten years their families have been left with nothing but painful memories and a quiet desperation for the day that has finally, miraculously arrived: Myron Bolitar and his friend Win believe they have located one of the boys, now a teenager. Where has he been for ten years, and what does he know about the day, more than half a life ago, when he was taken? And most critically: What can he tell Myron and Win about the fate of his missing friend? Drawing on his singular talent, Harlan Coben delivers an explosive and deeply moving thriller about friendship, family, and the meaning of home.

 

 

 

 

MY RATING

Four golden stars isolated on white background

 

 

 

 

 

In this book, internationally bestselling author Harlan Coben delivers quite a punch. He really knows how to weave a tale with intricate plots that flex their muscle. There’s clearly some major biceps in this one! Largely entertaining and jam packed with suspense. It’ll keep you guessing until the end.

 

 

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PLOT MUSCLE

 

 

 

 

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MYRON BOLITAR

I really enjoyed spending some time with Myron Bolitar, who seems to be a normal level headed guy with an itch to learn the truth. He’s seems like a calm, yet determined person. Which makes him perfect for solving crimes!

 

WIN

The book actually begins with a character named Win, who showcases his skills in the opening scenes. If you like a mysterious no nonsense assassin, then you’ll love Win. Together with Myron they make a great team.

 

 

Wildly entertaining and jam packed with suspense!

 

 

 

Home is available now

 

Add it to your Goodreads account

 

www.harlancoben.com | Twitter

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Have you read this book yet? What was your impression? Tell me in the comments!

 

 

 

 

 

Benjamin Thomas

@thewritingtrain

http://www.thewritingtrain.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Watch “8 Mistakes New Writers Make” on YouTube

Posted on by Benjamin Thomas

TELEVISION TUESDAY

With Kristen Martin

 

 

 

 

 

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Have you made any of these mistakes before? Tell me in the comments!

Benjamin Thomas

@thewritingtrain

http://www.thewritingtrain.com

 

Watch “How to Balance Multiple Writing Projects” on YouTube

Posted on by Benjamin Thomas

TELEVISION TUESDAY IS BACK!

 

 

 

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Have you tried writing multiple projects? Tell me in the comments!

 

 

 

 

 

Benjamin Thomas

@thewritingtrain

http://www.thewritingtrain.com

The Epic Simplicity of Faye Kirwin

Posted on by Benjamin Thomas

 

 

The Story of the Writer Series

Featuring writer Faye Kirwin

 

Stories are inevitably part of our lives. They have been for centuries. We live, breath, roam about in our own story world. We face the same obstacles, hurdles and disappointments as the heroes we read about. But they inspire us in ways hard to put into words.

What is our life?  You. Me. We are the composition of a great story. Every day is page in the life of a hero in the making. Of overcoming obstacles and insurmountable odds. We are the story; and I love reading them.

 

 

Let’s say hi to Faye Kirwin.

 

 

 

 

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Welcome Faye!

 

Where are you from?

 

You wish to know the secret location of my Write Cave? That would be Yorkshire, England. (Oh, maybe it’s not so secret anymore…)

Next time I come to England we should have a nice tea time.

 

 

 

 

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Tell us about your blog.

 

Writerology is my little corner of the internet, where I blog about my two greatest loves: stories and psychology. When you get down to it, writing is about understanding people—whether that’s the people you’re writing about, the people you’re writing for, or you yourself, the person behind the words. My mission at Writerology is to blend psychological knowledge with storytelling technique to help you craft a truly unforgettable tale.

I love your mission and how you blend the psychological aspects with storytelling techniques. Fascinating indeed. If you haven’t seen Faye’s blog yet, please do! I highly recommend it. 

 

 

 

 

 

To write a good story, you need to understand people, get inside their heads, know what makes them tick. And that’s where Writerology comes in.- Faye Kirwin

 

 

 

 

 

Favorite tea and snacks during writing?

 

English breakfast tea, black, served in my TARDIS teapot (naturally), plus a bowl of fruit on the side. Yum!

Sounds good. My favorite teas are peppermint and my good friend Earl Grey. We get along just fine.

 

 

 

 

 

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YOUR FICTION

 

Tell us about your fiction, genre or current work in progress.

 

Fantasy is my genre of choice, and most of the stories I’ve written fall under this category, from high fantasy to urban fantasy and all things in between. With my most recent work-in-progress, Her Clockwork Heart, however, I’ve ventured into new territory by adding a steampunk twist. Clockwork follows the life of Pippa Adeney as she crafts an automaton like none before, but when her mechanical masterpiece turns into a stalking nightmare, she is forced to confront both reality and the dark secrets plaguing her dreams.

Cool, steampunk!  I would love to read it someday. Very interesting premise. Yes, steampunk is definitely a genre I’d like to read more about. 

 

 

 

 

 

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Recommended reading for writers.

 

The Writer’s Guide to Psychology by Carolyn Kaufman and The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi have got to be my all-time favourite writing resources. They’re the two books I always have by my side whenever I’m writing!

I absolutely adore the Emotion Thesaurus by Angela and Becca. Carolyn Kaufman’s book is on my wishlist!

 

 

 

 

 

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Include any pertinent links and your weekly hashtags!

 

Links:

My website, Writerology: http://www.writerology.net

My Twitter account: http://www.twitter.com/writerology

 

I also host the weekly #storycrafter Twitter chat, which takes place every Sunday at 3 p.m. ET (that’s 12 noon PT), and love seeing new faces there! Pop over to this page for more information.

Viewing the website is a must. If you haven’t already, participate in the weekly chat #storycrafter. It’s a fun group. 

 

 

 

 

Ready? Get set….

 

 

 

 

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You’re a writer so what’s your story, or what inspired you?

 

I don’t know exactly when it was that I first started telling stories; I remember making up fairy tales for my sister each night before bed and coming up with the most complex of backstories for my toys when I was a child. Being able to capture the imaginations of others was simply magical. I loved to read and wanted to be an author when I grew up, but it wasn’t until I was 15 that I started putting all the stories in my head onto the page. Once I started, I couldn’t stop. The words just poured out and carried me away, as they’re still doing all these years later.

I love it. That’s awesome, Faye. Making backstories for toys just sounds exciting, and I bet you had loads of fun with it. Stories are great aren’t they?

 

 

 

 

 

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What’s your GOAL in becoming a writer?

 

Simply: to share my words. I’m a soft-spoken INFJ who wants to make a difference in the lives of others, and since I often get tongue-tied, words are the way I do it best. It’s my greatest wish that my stories resonate with others, inspire them, change their worlds in some small way. Even if it’s just one person, I’ll have achieved my goal.

I love the epic simplicity of your response! Sweet. I don’t think I could’ve put it any better than that. 

 

 

 

The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.-J.P. Morgan

 

 

 

 

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What 3 things have hindered you from completing your projects? (CONFLICT)

 

Hinderance 1: Self-doubt

It’s that niggling voice at the back of my head: What if I can’t do this? What if I’m not meant to do it? What if someone else can do it better?

There are times when I just want to throw down my metaphorical pen and give up. Recognising that it’s self-doubt talking and not something I truly want is difficult, and several projects have died out because I didn’t realise that quick enough. I’m better at it now, but it’s definitely something I need to work on.

I think we hear the same voice speaking in our heads! Just the thought that someone can do it better is just bogus. In fact, no one can do it better than you. It’s our story. Our words. Let’s let em’ fly.

 

 

Hinderance 2: Distraction

With books and Twitter and Netflix and friends all vying for my attention, it can be hard making time to sit down and make headway on a project. That’s why I’m a proponent of writing a little every day. If I can fit 10 minutes of writing into my day, that’s 10 more minutes than I might otherwise have done. It may not sound like a lot, but it really does add up over the months and years.

I’m a big fan of writing in small amounts, especially if you don’t write full time and have other responsibilities. 100 words a day is my ultimate baseline. It’s not much but it’s been extremely helpful.

 

 

Hinderance 3: Plot bunnies

I’ll get halfway through a first draft, then an adorable little plot idea hops into my head and demands that I write it. If I can fend off that idea and stick with my current project, I’m assailed by more plot bunnies once I’ve finished that first draft, then once I’ve completed the edits, and then again when I’m supposed to be revising. Saying no to those shiny new ideas and sticking to one project at once is something I always struggle with, and many a time I’ll find myself pulled away from my first project and tumbling down the rabbit hole.

Oh no, Zombie plot bunnies! Run for it! I know this all too well. Makes it hard to concentrate and complete your initial project. Way too familiar with this one.

 

 

 

 

 

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What keeps you motivated in achieving your dream? (DESIRE)

 

I remember that I have a story to tell and that there are people who want to hear it. Knowing that I have the full support of my friends and family inspires me to no end and gives me that extra boost when I’m struck by the Three Hindrances of Self-Doubt, Distraction and Plot Bunnies. (And if all else fails, said friends and family will badger me to write until I do. They’re nice/evil like that.)

That’s great! You have a wonderful support system. Love it.

 

 

 

 

 

I remember that I have a story to tell and that there are people who want to hear it.-Faye Kirwin

 

 

 

 

 

What’s your ANTAGONIST? What’s in the way?

 

My own mind is my greatest foe. I have the time and space to write, I have the stories I want to tell, but getting over my own mental hurdles is the real challenge. Determination, motivation, inspiration, self-doubt and self-discipline all stem from my mindset, so when my head isn’t in the game, I’m not making any progress. It’s infuriating, but it also means the power to change is in my hands.

Ah, the foe of mind. He’s a worthy adversary, but it only makes the story better.

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are what we think

 

 

 

 

 

 

If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you. -Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why do writers give up, quit or never complete their projects?

 

It’s so much easier to give in than to struggle on in the face of fear or uncertainty or criticism. That’s what makes the temptation to quit so strong. If we don’t finish that project, no one can judge us, our words can’t be criticised, and we don’t have to agonise over whether readers like our stories or not. It’s safer to give up—but it’s braver to carry on.

This is spot on. You hit the nail on the head with this statement. 

 

 

 

 

It’s safer to give up—but it’s braver to carry on.-Faye Kirwin

 

 

 

 

 

 

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What would you say to a struggling writer who’s given up?

 

It’s not too late. It’s never too late. Be brave. Remember why you started writing in the first place: What drew you to the words? Why that story? What do you love about writing? Which characters are your favourites? What would you love to write about more than anything else? Write your answers down, let them fill your whole being and remember that feeling. Whenever you feel the temptation to give up, bring out those reasons to write and reach for that feeling again. Forget why you want to quit and remember why you started in the first place.

This is so encouraging. I should print this out and frame it. 

 

 

 

 

THANKS FAYE! THIS WAS REALLY FUN.

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks for ridin’ the train folks!

 

 

 

 

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And, don’t be a stranger.

 

 

 

 

 

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Benjamin Thomas

@thewritingtrain

http://www.thewritingtrain.com

The Crown of Stones Trilogy by Fantasy Author C.L. Schneider

Posted on by Benjamin Thomas

 

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PLEASE WELCOME ONE AWESOME FANTASY AUTHOR

C.L. SCHNEIDER

 

 

 

 

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C.L. Schneider is an author mom who just penned her first published work, The Crown of Stones. The first in a trilogy, Magic-Price is a gripping account of one man’s struggle to accept who and what he is. It’s the journey of a flawed hero, a fallen race, and a land at war. A page-turning tale of prejudice, betrayal, secrets and lies.

 

 

 

*It sounds absolutely and deliciously scrumptious!*

 

 

 

 

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GULP…

 

 

 

 

 

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THE CROWN OF STONES

 

 

 

 

 

*How long did you live in Kansas?

I was born and raised in Atchison, Kansas, a small town on the Missouri river. Atchison is the birthplace of Amelia Earhart. It is also considered the most haunted small town in Kansas. I came to New York after I finished school and have lived in the same general area (the Hudson Valley region) ever since.

Haunted small towns, eh? Just in time for Halloween!

 

 

 

 

 

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*What sorts of books did you read growing up?

I come from a family of readers, all with different interests, so the bookshelves in my house were bursting with books from all genres. I was an early reader. In elementary school I devoured my older sibling’s collections of Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys, but by the time I was in middle school I was reading a lot of the classics. Some of my favorites were: Gone with the Wind, Jane Eyre, Rebecca, Frankenstein, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Northwest Passage, The Time Machine. I loved mysteries and gothic novels. From there, I moved onto historical fiction and horror. I didn’t start reading fantasy until after high school when my brother bought me a copy of The Mists of Avalon. I fell in love and read it twice within a couple of months. I had already finished my first novel at that point, but that book changed everything for me. It narrowed my writing focus. Once I read Mists of Avalon, I knew fantasy was my genre.

That’s an interesting mix of books there! It intrigues me how certain books can have a particular affect on us. In your case it was The Mists of Avalon. 

 

 

 

 

The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.-Dr. Seuss

 

 

 

 

*Who were your favorite characters growing up, and how did you relate to them?

I adored Scarlett O’Hara. She was such an amazing character. On the surface she was this incredibly strong woman who let nothing stand in her way. She knew how to work the system to get what she wanted. Yet underneath, she was vulnerable. Scarlett O’Hara was the first truly flawed character that I ever encountered and she definitely set the bar high. I was also drawn to Heathcliff from Wuthering Heights. To me, at the time, he was the epitome of a tortured character. I loved his passion and recklessness.

YESSSS. Flawed characters are the name of the game. It’s amazing how we’re touched by them isn’t it?

 

 

 

 

 

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*What’s your educational background?

I’ve had no formal writing education. Writing is just something I’ve done for as long as I can remember.

Me neither!! Hah! But you’re trilogy looks AMAZING. The reviews I’ve seen are also very astounding. Impressive for someone who has no formal background in writing. You’re an encouragement for the rest of us!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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*Who are you favorite characters today and how do you relate to them?

One of my favorite characters that I’ve discovered recently is Mason Stone from the Saint Monolith series by fellow indie author Tom Reinhart. Mason Stone is such a compelling character. He’s an unsung hero, a loose cannon vigilante, a tortured man, and a very lost soul. I can’t say that I relate to him, really, but I admire how he doesn’t hold back. He does the things that everyone else wishes they could.

Hmm…I haven’t heard of him, but I’ll check him out! 

 

 

 

*Tell us about Ian Troy and how you crafted him.

There is a quote by Kahlil Gibran that I believe describes Ian Troy perfectly: “Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.” That is Ian Troy. 

Ian is an anti-hero, flawed as they come. He’s solder, a magic user, a drinker, a smart-ass, and an outcast who’s maddeningly stubborn and guilt ridden. Ian’s story is a dark one, and he goes to some very dark places. He doesn’t always do the right thing. In fact, he does some very bad things. But you can always count on him to be selfless in the face of danger and put other’s lives ahead of his own. How did he get to be this way? Over the course of the trilogy, you learn about the roller coaster of his life and how he was manipulated and coerced even before he was born.

I love flawed characters. The more flawed they are, the more opportunities they have to incite emotions in a reader. Flawed characters, to me, are far more interesting that the gallant white knights and the perfect super heroes. Those are fine, to a point. But I’m far more intrigued by what’s underneath the shining armor and the mask. What trials and tribulations did they have to endure? What past mistakes or secret desires are they hiding?

When I created Ian Troy, I set out to construct a character that I, as a reader, would want to get lost in. It was important to me that Ian carried traits from some of the characters that sparked my imagination growing up. I wanted him to be a cowboy and an outlaw, a good guy and a rogue; a detective when he needed to be, a monster when he could help it, and a hero even when he tried not to be. I knew his story would revolve around magic. That he would be flawed and suffering, bold yet strong, valiant yet broken. To me, the best way to create and explore a tortured character was to make his greatest strength (magic) also his greatest weakness.

I love, love, love your description of your characters and your entire premise. 

 

 

 

 

 

“Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.”- Kahlil Gibran

 

 

 

*What do you love most about him?

I love Ian’s strength, his ability to keep going, to keep striving for what he knows is right even against terrible odds. It probably sounds strange, but when I’m faced with a difficult task and I feel like giving up, I think: Ian wouldn’t give up, and it pushes me to keep going.

Now that’s awesome. You’re inspired by your own character! That’s heroism at its best.

 

 

 

 

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*If you were to meet him in person how would you feel?

Oh, I’m not sure! No one has ever asked me that before. I might feel a little star struck, actually. Though, I would love to find out. It would be amazing to have the opportunity to sit down with Ian and the gang at one of the taverns in my book and share a bottle. That would be a fun night!

I can almost picture this playing out in my head, lol!  That would be EPIC.

 

 

 

*What did you enjoy most in writing the Crown of Stones Trilogy?

Worldbuilding was definitely one of my favorite parts of writing The Crown of Stones. I loved forming all those realms and crafting their history. Taking the flaws and accomplishments (and the secrets) of each society and interweaving them together over the three books was so much fun. Mirra’kelan is a world I’m proud of. I think it has a lot of potential for future stories.

I also thoroughly enjoyed the characters. One of the hardest parts of moving onto a new project was letting them go.

Yeah, that sounds like it would be pretty hard. Having to let them go and move on would be tough.

 

 

 

 

 

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*What exactly is Epic Fantasy?

Epic fantasy is generally described as a novel set in an entirely imaginary world, completely unlike our own, with environments and societies that are fully explored and realized. As a rule, the story is lengthy and often evolves over multiple books. It frequently includes a large cast of characters, complex magic systems, sweeping battles, and/or a journey across multiple realms. The plot is complex and game-changing, leaving the story-world altered on a grand scale and the characters evolved.

I like it. Just realized my story sounds a lot like epic fantasy. 

 

 

*What is Urban Fantasy?

With urban fantasy, the magical/supernatural elements are still there, but story generally takes place in more of a contemporary, urban setting than epic fantasy.

I wonder what is it if your story has both elements of Urban and Epic fantasy? Interesting. 

 

 

 

 

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*Can you give us a teaser about your next book?

My next book, Nite Fire, is the first in an urban fantasy series. It’s the story of Dahlia Nite, a half-dragon shapeshifter from a parallel world very different from our own. Many years ago, Dahlia’s emerging empathic abilities interfered with her job as an assassin. She failed the dragon queen, Naalish, and was condemned to die. Being half human (and able to shift into human form), Dahlia fled her home for the only other world where she had a hope of blending in: ours.

Nite Fire is set in the fictitious Sentinel City. Already a hot-spot for the unexplained, when a series of brutal killings disguised as spontaneous combustion strike the city, Dahlia knows the killer is one of her own kind. She worms her way into the investigation, teaming up with a human detective to solve the case, while struggling to maintain the lies that have kept humanity in the dark for centuries; believing myths and legends were just that.

As Dahlia searches for the truth behind the murders, the bit of peace she’s found in this world starts to unravel. Nite Fire is the first book in a series. An early excerpt is posted on my website on the Playground page Nite Fire Play if you’d like to have a look! Leave a comment, too. I’d love to hear what you think of it.

 

You really now how to craft a story with intriguing characters! Please drop me a line when you finish. I’d be open to review it. 

 

 

 

 

 

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Connect with C.L. Schneider!

Twitter | Facebook | Google | Goodreads | Amazon | Website

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks for ridin’ the train folks!!

 

 

 

 

 

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When writing a novel a writer should create living people; people not characters. A character is a caricature. -Ernest Miller Hemingway

 

 

 

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To write well, express yourself like the common people, but think like a wise man. -Aristotle

 

 

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“When I want to read a novel, I write one.” -Benjamin Disraeli

 

 

 

 

 

 

Don’t be a stranger…

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Benjamin Thomas

@thewritingtrain

http://www.thewritingtrain.com

Brainwalker Blog Tour: by Robyn Mundell & Stephan Lacast!

Posted on by Benjamin Thomas

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BRAINWALKER BLOG TOUR

 

by Robyn Mundell & Stephan Lacast
Genre: YA Scifi/Fantasy
Release Date: October 1st 2016
Dualmind Publishing

 

 

 

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Check out a Q&A with the authors here!

 

 

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  • Paperback: 258 pages
  • Publisher: Dualmind Publishing (September 21, 2016)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0997652519
  • ISBN-13: 978-0997652512
  • Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.6 x 8.5 inches

 

 

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Summary from Goodreads:

 

Fourteen year-old Bernard

Fourteen year-old Bernard is full of out of the box ideas—ideas that nobody appreciates. Not his ultra-rational father, not his classmates, and definitely not his teacher, who’s fed up waiting for Bernard’s overdue science project. You’d think with a hotshot quantum physicist for a dad, the assignment would be easy as “pi”, but with his relationship with his father on rocky ground, Bernard is under more pressure than a helium atom.

And Bernard’s impulse control flies out the window when he’s stressed. So instead of turning in his project, he moons the class and gets suspended. Now his dad’s got no choice but to bring him to his work. At the Atom Smasher. It’s the chance of a lifetime for Bernard, who knows smashing atoms at the speed of light can—theoretically—make wormholes. How about that for the most mind-bending science project ever? But when he sneaks into the particle accelerator and someone hits the power button, Bernard ends up in the last place he’d ever want to be.

Inside his father’s brain.

And it’s nothing like the spongy grey mass Bernard studied at school. It’s a galaxy, infinite and alive. Like, people live there. A mysterious civilization on the brink of extinction, as unaware of their host as he is of them. But there’s zero time to process this. Bernard’s about to be caught up in an epic war between the two sides of his dad’s brain over their most precious resource:

Mental Energy.

With his father’s life at stake, Bernard must go up against the tyrannical left side of his father’s brain to save the dying, creative right side. But how the heck is he supposed to do that when he’s just a hopelessly right-brained kid himself? (less)

 

 

 

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ADD TO GOODREADS:  Brainwalker

WEBSITE: Brainwalker.net

BUY LINKS: Amazon Kindle | Amazon Paperback

 

 

 

 

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My Rating

 

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What a fascinating read! I enjoyed the romp through the Brainiverse that Bernard takes us on in order to save his Dad, and even himself. He goes on quite an adventure to both sides on his Father’s brain in efforts to restore peace, communication and unity between the two cerebral hemispheres, Reezon and Intuit.

 

 

 

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The authors do a great job of taking complicated brain science and turning it into an entertaining story to read. From neurons, microorganisms and organelles, it has it all. 

 

 

 

 

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May this book raise your appreciation for neuroscience, physiology, the nervous system, not to mention the balance of intuition and logic within all of us. 

 

 

 

 

 

THANK YOU TO YA BOUND BOOK TOURS FOR ORGANIZING THIS EVENT!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Benjamin Thomas

@thewritingtrain

http://www.thewritingtrain.com

Getting to Know You: Victoria Griffin on the ‘Flooded’ anthology.

Posted on by Benjamin Thomas

This is a continuation of the Flooded Blog Tour A Creative Anthology of Brain Injuries. The Kickstarter campaign has begun! Show your support!!!

 

 

 

 

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As a special treat to readers of this blog, I present to you our second guest of the day. I know, I spoil you!
Victoria Griffin is the creator of ‘Flooded: A Creative Anthology of Brain Injuries‘ and she’s here today to talk to us about this brilliant project and why everyone should donate to this brilliant Kickstarter campaign.
Thanks to Victoria to taking the time to chat to us today.

Vic x

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Welcome to the blog, Victoria, what is ‘Flooded‘?
‘Flooded‘ will be a creative anthology of fiction and creative nonfiction devoted to brain injuries. It will be approximately 80,000 words and will include work of all styles and genres. The anthology is not merely meant to showcase memoirs or personal stories—though they will undoubtedly play a role. Brain injuries take many forms and are often difficult to describe. That’s why the…

View original post 1,720 more words

Flooded: A Creative Anthology of Brain Injuries with Victoria Griffin

Posted on by Benjamin Thomas

 

 

 

 

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**WATCH “FLOODED: A Creative Anthology of Brain Injuries”**

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check out the link to the Kickstarter campaign!

 

 

Allow me to introduce my friend Victoria Griffin a freelance editor, writer, blogger and all around awesome gal. Welcome Griff!!

 

 

 

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VictoriaGriffin.net

Former Softball Player Creates Creative Anthology Devoted to Brain Injuries Knoxville, Tennessee – October 6, 2016 – In January of this year, author and Campbell University softball player Victoria Griffin sustained a severe concussion that would last four months. The injury stripped her of basic abilities–reading, walking, speaking—and took her final season of college softball. Now, she is using the experience to fuel the creation of Flooded, a literary anthology of fiction and creative nonfiction devoted to concussions and brain injuries. In order to fund the project, she is launching a Kickstarter campaign October 11, 2016. The bulk of funding will go toward contributor payments, editing, and design. She hopes the anthology will provide an outlet for victims of brain injuries to express the emotional realities so often glazed over in favor of statistics and facts. She also sees the anthology as a tool to educate those who have not experienced brain injuries–and those who will in the future. Supporters can become involved with the project as ambassadors, sharing updates about Flooded with their social media networks. Find out more about Flooded at victoriagriffin.net/flooded

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Alright, time to knock this puppy out of the park. You ready??

 

 

 

 

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*Where did you grow up?

I grew up in East Tennessee, near the base of the Smoky Mountains, in a little town called Claxton. It has one red light and no post office, and I wouldn’t change a thing about it.

 

Nice. I haven’t trekked to much around the Smoky Mountains, but I’ve driven through it *many* times. 

 

 

 

 

 

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*How long have you been writing?

I’ve been writing as long as I can remember. I’ve got a folder of stories from the first grade that make me wonder how many horror flicks my dad let me watch as a kid. My first publication came during my junior year of high school. I’d say that was when I truly decided writing was going to be my life.

That’s great, Tori. You’re going to have to share some of those stories with us! 



*What do you love most about it?

Writing has a way of giving you control, while completely stripping it away. As a writer, I decide characters’ fates, and yet it often feels like transcribing a story that has already happened. I love creating in a way that feels like discovery.

I love your take on this. There is something about creating these fates and destinies that’s so satisfying. 



“Writing has a way of giving you control, while completely stripping it away”-Victoria Griffin 



*Can you tell us a little about the brain anthology?

Flooded was inspired by my own experience with TBI and my subsequent realization that concussion and brain injury awareness are seriously lacking. The anthology will consist of fiction and creative nonfiction about brain injuries, with the purpose of spreading awareness about the reality of brain injuries’ impacts on people’s lives.

This project is very special and I’m glad you decided to participate in it!






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*Explain your goals for the Kickstarter campaign and how we can participate.


While this anthology is devoted to concussion awareness, it is also a literary undertaking. I will seek out the best work by talented authors, and I believe they should be paid appropriately. The main goal for the Kickstarter is to make sure that happens. The funds will also cover editing, layout, cover art, etc. to produce a high-quality anthology. Of course, you can participate in the campaign by pledging to the project (and getting some sweet rewards), but you can also participate by spreading the word. Sharing the Flooded story with your friends, family, and social media networks is greatly appreciated.

This is exciting! Can’t wait until the final product comes about. But the great thing is we can participate in the process!!






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*How do you view writing after experiencing a major concussion?


Of course, the experience impacts my work—as all experiences do. But the greatest change since the injury is how grateful I am to be able to write. During those four months, I was physically unable to write. Language was painful. I couldn’t understand words being spoken to me, let alone create them myself. Now, to be able to tell stories and follow my passion means so much more than it did before.


Wow. I’m just glad you’re ok. But I’m even happier that you emerged with more passion for writing!




“Passion will move men beyond themselves, beyond their shortcomings, beyond their failures.” -Joseph Campbell 





*Has it changed how you write?


I have become much more interested in representing myself and my culture in my work—as a brain-injury survivor, a woman, and a southern Appalachian. The concussion helped me to realize how powerful writing and storytelling is. Losing the ability to write or read for four months made that abundantly clear. I suppose I feel more responsibility, now, to use my writing in an impactful way.

This is powerful. Love it.





“The concussion helped me to realize how powerful writing and storytelling is. Losing the ability to write or read for four months made that abundantly clear.”

 

 

*How has it affected your outlook on life?


I’m not sure I can express how much the injury changed my outlook. I lost absolutely everything that makes me who I am—down to my emotions. My family told me after the fact that my eyes were dull and dead-looking. I have been symptom-free for four months, now, and still just stepping into the sunshine gives me more happiness than I can describe. Reading a book, watching a movie, listening to music. I am grateful to be able to do these things. My perspective has shifted. To be alive, breathing, and not in pain is a miracle to me.
The other massive change in my outlook is a result of the people in my life who took care of me during that time. We’ve all had someone care for us while we’re sick. This was nothing like that. These people dropped their entire lives to make sure I stayed breathing—literally. A friend stayed with me when I was afraid I would stop breathing during the night. Coming to help me while I was stuck on the stairs. Shielding me from the lights and sounds that shut down my system. Pulling me out of buildings when I couldn’t move. The list goes on. At the same time, I saw the absolute worst in people. Those who actually tried to hurt me while I was helpless to defend myself. So I learned, and I will remember, to hold tightly to true friends and loved ones and to let the others go. The only people I need in my life are the ones who love me enough to hold me up when I’m falling, and I will never stop telling them how much I love and appreciate them.


This is very moving, especially hearing how they cared for you in your lowest times. Love motivates a true friend to hold you up when you fall. Very sweet indeed. 







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* Post-concussion, what are you most grateful for?


The people who were and continue to be there for me.

Hey, you can’t beat that. 




*Can you name up to 5 things that helped you through this difficult time?


I’ll name a few things that helped me post-concussion, after the symptoms subsided. Because to be completely honest, there is nothing in the world that could have helped during the injury.

1. My friends and family

2. Reading and writing

3. Having a clear picture of where I wanted to be in the next year, of the person I wanted to get back to being


Excellent. I’m glad you pulled through, and hats off to all those who lent a helping hand. 








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Don’t forget to check out the Kickstarter page for more information, goals, and rewards for participation!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Victoria Griffin

victoriagriffin.net

865.292.1798

Twitter

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks for ridin’ the Train folks!!  Until the next time…..

 

 

 

 

 

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Benjamin Thomas

@thewritingtrain

http://www.thewritingtrain

YA Bound Book Tour: The Row by J.R. Johansson

Posted on by Benjamin Thomas

 

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**THE ROW BY J.R. JOHANSSON**

 

 

 

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About the Author
J.R. Johansson’s books have been published in a dozen languages and more than twenty countries worldwide. She has a B.S. degree in
public relations and a background in marketing. She credits her abnormal psychology minor with inspiring many of her characters. She lives in Utah with two sons, a wonderful husband, three cats, and a hot tub named Valentino.

She is represented by the stellar Kathleen Rushall of Andrea Brown Literary Agency

Blog Tour organized by: YA Bound Book Tours

 

Author Links: 

Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook 

 

 

 

 

 

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The Row by J.R. Johansson

Genre: YA Mystery

Release Date: October 11th 2016

FSG/Macmillan

 

 

Summary from Goodreads:

A death sentence. A family torn apart. One girl’s hunt for the truth. Seventeen-year-old Riley Beckett is no stranger to prison. Her father is a convicted serial killer on death row who has always maintained that he was falsely accused. Riley has never missed a single visit with her father. She wholeheartedly believes that he is innocent.

Then, a month before the execution date, Riley’s world is rocked when, in an attempt to help her move on, her father secretly confesses to her that he actually did carry out the murders.

He takes it back almost immediately, but she cannot forget what he’s told her. Determined to uncover the truth for her own sake, she discovers something that will forever change everything she’s believed about the family she loves.

Add to Goodreads

Buy links: Amazon |  B&N | Kobo | Google Play | Books-a-Million | Indiebound | Indigo | Overstock | Powell’s | Target

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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*Who’s your favorite football team?

I’m an absolute freak about the Green Bay Packers. I never miss a game. I usually go out to Green Bay for several games a year, I own stock in the organization, and I helped my son decorate his entire room green and yellow. 😉

Cheesehead, eh? I’m a 49er’s fan!

 

 

 

 

 

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*What initially drew you to write?

The first time I sat down and started writing, I did it as an escape. My life was stressing me out and I had this idea in my mind that just wouldn’t go away. I thought maybe if I wrote it down, it might help, so I did. Not only did it help my stress, but I found something I loved more than I ever would have imagined.

I had the same experience. Beginning with simple escapism in poetry then morphing into full blown fiction. 

 

*Why have you chosen to write YA?

Teen years are so formative. They are one of the first times we all start trying to identify and establish ourselves and our independence. We begin to figure out who we are and create and define ourselves. I think we continue to do that again and again at various points for the rest of our lives and so it’s easy to identify with. I love writing characters in that kind of flux and transition. It creates beautifully poignant conflict and tension.

Wonderful! Conflict and tension is the name of the game.

 

 

 

 

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*How do you craft your characters?

I try to start with someone real and flawed and then try to get into their heads. I create their backstory and try to figure out what having a history like the one I gave them would do to these people. I basically just work to make them whole and breathe life into them.

We all love real and flawed characters. You can’t go wrong there!

 

 

 

 

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*What is it about psychology that you enjoy employing in your writing?

I think this ties into the characters question because my psychology background helps me analyze the way a background would make a character who they are. It also helps me get into flaws and communication skill sets and all kinds of stuff to make both characters and relationships well rounded.

I love this. Your way of crafting characters is very fascinating.

 

 

 

 

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*Who’s your favorite character you’ve ever created?

Wow…hard choice. I’m going to name a couple and say why because picking one is just too hard. Finn (Night Walkers’ Series) is the most fun. Piper (Cut Me Free) is the toughest. And Riley (The Row) has the biggest heart.

Awesome. I can’t wait to read all of your books!!

 

 

*As a reader, who are your top 3 favorite characters and what do you appreciate about them?

Peeta – (The Hunger Games) because he was vulnerable in a position that made everyone else hard.

Caymen – (The Distance Between Us) because I don’t know if I’ll ever find a better depiction of my ideal sense of humor anywhere else.

Adelina – (The Young Elites) because she’s the absolute best anti-hero I’ve ever seen and I love her for it.

Vulnerability, humor, and the anti-hero. 

 

 

 

 

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*Tell us about the protagonist in your new book.

Riley has walls up pretty high. She’s spent all her life defending her father and having people slander him and her whole family in front of her (and behind her back). She loves her father and believes that he’s innocent. This situation has flipped her perspectives in some interesting ways. She doesn’t trust police or the justice system. She has nightmares of the police coming to her house at night to steal her parents away. She’s very close to her father, but has more normal growing pains in her relationship with her mother. Her whole life was put on hold when her father went to prison and she and her mother have spent years with their lives in limbo as they fight to set him free. So when Riley starts to doubt her father, it sends her whole world spiraling out of control. She’s good, and loyal, and fierce in a situation where no one expects her to be. I loved writing her because it gave me a chance to expose and explore some things in our society that I don’t agree with. Often children and families of criminals are treated like they are guilty too, that they should’ve known and are somehow also responsible. I also got to ask some questions about how we can really be sure that we truly know anyone—or what they’re capable of. These topics fascinate me.

Totally agree. The story has a great premise and very interesting protagonist. 

 

 

 

 

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*You seem to write with powerful themes in your stories; I suspect you’re a very passionate person. What’s your process for selecting theme?

I do tend to gravitate toward powerful themes and I am a passionate person. I’m afraid my process for selecting a theme is far from scientific though. I like to expose myself to as much life as I can. I watch tv, movies, travel, go to the park and watch people, read the news and books. Then I wait for something to strike a particular chord. When it happens and I find myself really wanting to dive into researching a topic or issue more than normal, then I know it’s one I might want to write about.

LOVE IT. These are the best stories written by the best kinds of authors.

 

 

 

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*Have you ever cried while writing? If so, what was your experience?

Yes, actually. The last two books: Cut Me Free and The Row. With both, it has been in a part of the story near the climax where I’m particularly connected to the characters and they’re at their lowest point. I also get a little choked up when I’m writing the end. The most emotional moments for my characters set me off a bit, but I think it usually means I’m getting that emotion to come through on the page in a good way as well, so I’m happy about it.

You gotta love emotion, it’s the currency of all fiction. 

 

 

 

 

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*What have you experienced or learned in writing this book as opposed to your other series and stand-alones?

The experience with this book has taught me to be flexible because I basically went through three different editors over the course of working on it. That’s unusual for me, so it took a bit of adjusting. I’m really happy with the way it turned out though. It was also my first mystery, which meant the tension changed a bit as opposed to my thrillers. The main character was in less danger than I was used to, so it forced me to run the story a little differently. I think I’m a better writer for the experience.

I like the idea of being a flexible writer. Crafting these kinds of stories are great exercise.

 

 

*I can tell you enjoy writing about the deep complexities of human life. Can you bring us into your mindset on this?

People fascinate me. They always have. I remember as a kid looking at a stranger walking down the street and thinking that it felt so random that I was in my body, in my life, and they were in theirs. I used to imagine being in their body. Would I be taller, would my arms be longer, what would the world look like from their perspective? I use this in my writing constantly. We all have struggles. We all have our own pain and triumph. I like to dig around in that and try to see the strength in human flaws and frailty. Through that lens is where we really capture the beauty of humanity.

We must be twins separated at birth!! People fascinate me as well. I love to connect with people on different levels. FUN!

 

 

*What do you have next coming down the pike?

I’m currently working on another standalone thriller and a couple of middle grade projects, so watch for news on those soon!

We’ll put out a BOLO for all of your upcoming projects. THANK YOU SO MUCH.

 

 

 

 

 

 

~~BETWEEN THE PAGES OF A BOOK IS A LOVELY PLACE TO BE~~

 

 

 

 

 

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THANKS FOR JOINING THE YA BOOK BLOG TOUR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Benjamin Thomas

@thewritingtrain

http://www.thewritingtrain.com

A new Political Thriller by J.C. Peters

Posted on by Benjamin Thomas

 

Everyone please welcome J.C. Peters!

 

 

 

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The Dog and its Day

 

 

There has been only one assassination on a Presidential Candidate, Robert F. Kennedy, in 1968. Has the time come for the next serious attempt? Legal Philosopher, historian and author J.C. Peters uses this scenario in his first political fiction novel, The Dog and its Day (Odyssea Publishing), available now on Amazon and major online retailers. As the United States comes to elect the next President in the coming months and with the first debate completed, Peters is compelled to depict the main characters in the book off current political and presidential candidates.

In The Dog and Its Day, two conservative billionaires decide to hire the best assassin $10 million can buy to kill Republican presidential candidate Ronald Drump, realizing any other candidate would have a much better chance of winning against the notoriously unpopular Valery Clayton. The assassin, an American, is meticulous, methodical and he never fails. As a rule, he does not operate stateside, but the chance to retire in style, with a legendary campaign season swings into high gear, the killer chooses his time, place and method. The hour is fast approaching. One main can change the course of history. The question: who will it be?

To learn more about the book and author J.C. Peters, visit www.JellePeters.com, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

 

 

 

 

 

 

*How did you go from writing historical nonfiction to fiction?

After finishing my latest nonfiction history book, World 2.0: A History from Enlightenment to Terrorism and Beyond, which had taken me more than three years to write and research, I was actually planning to take a small break. But as I watched Donald Trump rise in the Republican primaries, I began thinking about how incredibly high the stakes would be if he actually became the Republican nominee, how the entire country could be swayed into one of two very different directions and how the course of history is often determined by just one person. Truth is, I had come upon many Donald Trumps while writing World 2.0. Of course, if one man can change the world, it also takes just one man to stop him. And that is how the story of The Dog and its Day was born.

It’s amazing how one person can affect the world and turn it upon its hinges.

 

 

 

 

 

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*Can you note the differences you experienced?

Interestingly enough, the difference between fiction and nonfiction was far smaller than I had expected. In the last six months of working on my history book, I sometimes fantasized about finally being able to throw off the constraints of having to research and double-check every single fact. In fiction, I thought, I could do whatever I wanted, I would finally be the king of my own universe! But when I started writing The Dog and its Day—actually even before that, when I was still just thinking about the story—I realized that for me at least, the main difference would be to recalibrate reality a few degrees. When it comes to thrillers, I was never that interested in outlandish stories where the villains do unspeakable things. In The Dog and its Day, I wanted to explore how an assassination plot on Donald Trump would be conceived, planned and executed. That turned out to take quite a lot of research as well, but at least I didn’t have to name sources, write footnotes and create an index anymore.

That’s awesome. I’m writing a my first fictional piece and hope to pen nonfiction one day. 

 

 

 

 

FICTION REVEALS TRUTH THAT REALITY OBSCURES -RALPH WALDO EMERSON

 

 

 

 

*Does your book explore a particular theme?

One man can change history. Nothing is set in stone and history does repeat itself.

This is very fascinating. I guess it all depends on who is changing history and how they’re doing it. 

 

 

 

 

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*What can you tell us about these two billionaires and their relationship with one another?

They are lifelong friends who together founded a coal-mining company 30 years ago and expanded it into a global empire in the decades that followed. They have had people standing in the way of their business interests eliminated before. When one of them suggests to have the Republican nominee assassinated, the other first recoils, but then he realizes the time for moral objections has long since passed.

Sounds like a great premise! Two power hungry billionaires with their own agenda.

 

 

 

 

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*Tell us three things about Ronald Drump. 

He is the Republican nominee for president. A New York real estate developer without any political experience. He is brash, arrogant, notoriously unreliable and far behind in the polls when the two billionaires decide to have him eliminated.

Well, may the odds ever be in his favor.

 

 

 

 

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*Tell us three things about Valery Clayton.

She is the Democratic nominee for president. Her husband, Richard Clayton, was President in the 1990s. She has vowed to close all coal mines in the United States if elected.

I’m surprised they the billionaires wouldn’t have her assassinated instead. Especially if she’s trying to close the coal mines!

 

 

*How meticulous is this legendary assassin? 

He is the kind of man who, if he had an unforeseen chance to take out his mark with a 9mm handgun in a dark forest with nobody else around, would still do nothing more than mumble a greeting and walk on, if he had planned to take him out a day later with a .300 Winchester Magnum from 800 yards away.

I’ve always thought assassins were cool for some reason. It must be the nature of the job and how they manage to get away with it, or not.

 

 

 

 

 

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*If you were Ronald Drump and realized an attempt on your life what would you do?

Probably the same as what the real Republican nominee, Donald Trump, has done. Hire extra private security—much to the dismay of the Secret Service.

Yikes! Sounds like a high stress job. Whew.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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*If you had opportunity to change the world as Drump, Clayton, the billionaires, or the assassin which person would you be?

The billionaires and the assassin can only stop someone else from becoming President of the United States. I would prefer to be in power myself.

Good answer! 

 

 

*What is your favorite time period in history?

I find that once you start digging and are transported back in time, each period has its own unique stories to tell and adventures to share. Fourteenth century France might seem less interesting than World War II at first glance, but once you start exploring the Hundred Years’ War and the Black Death and it all comes to life again, it quickly become another favorite period in history.

It would be adventurous to be a time traveler and go back to observe how things unfolded personally. 

 

 

 

If you think you have it tough, read history books. -Bill Maher

 

 

 

*Will you write more political thrillers?

I already have a new plot. One that strikes at the heart of the presidency and puts the President in an impossible situation. So yes.

YES. More political thrillers! Keep us posted!

 

 

 

 

 

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THANKS J.C. PETERS!!!

 

 

THANKS FOR RIDIN THE TRAIN!!!

 

 

 

 

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Benjamin Thomas

@thewritingtrain

http://www.thewritingtrain.com