The Platter of Creativity, Author Mila A. Ballentine by S.J. Dennery

Foreword:

I enjoy being a quiet storm in a room, but I agreed to do the following interview with S. J. Dennery, a young author who plans to release her debut novel in 2013.  I was thoroughly impressed with the questions she came up with and I have to admit that the high school sophomore made me dig deep within myself to respond to her questions. I look forward to reading her novel when it is released.

The Platter of Creativity, Author Mila A. Ballentine by S.J. Dennery

Author Mila A. Ballentine's originality shines through all of her stories. She is creative, adventurous, and honest about everything that goes into the pages of her books. If Mila were to get lost in the woods, she would use her time wisely. Her instincts would be alert and her creativity would skyrocket through the roof. Mila would write a story on a leaf. Besides Mila being a good author, she is bubbly, outgoing, and extremely shy, but don’t let her coyness fool you.  Her characters are strong, honest, and ready to jump into an adventure without hesitations.

1.      Is there a genre you haven’t written and would like to pursue in the future?

MAB: I would like to write a Western. My father used to watch western movies when I was a kid and I developed a fondness for it.

2.      If you weren’t an author, what career would you be involved in?

MAB: If I wasn’t an author I would be a costume designer. I was once a costume assistant and besides writing, it was one of my favorite jobs. It gave me a chance to use my creativity to the fullest while working on Broadway-style shows.

3.      Do you see yourself writing books ten years from now?

MAB: Ten years from now, I hope to be in a ranch -style home with horses running across the meadow while I write a steamy romance or western novel. At this point, I can’t image my life without writing. It’s my oxygen; I can’t breathe without it.

 

4.       Do you believe people should choose a book based only on the author’s name?

MAB: I think when a reader is choosing a book, they should always explore new authors. It’s important to discover the creativity of others because each author approaches a storyline differently. Imagine if you were the only person in the world to know what a Banana Foster tasted like. Expand your horizon. Do not limit yourself.

5.       How do you get inspired to write a new book?

MAB: I’m inspired to write when my emotions wonder into barren plains; when the deepest level of sleep blesses me with something so intriguing that it wakes me and I write it down.

6.       What responsibilities do you have to take on as an author?

MAB: My responsibilities as an author includes marketing, blogging, illustrator, cover designer and to continue providing stories to build my catalog of books.

7.       What kind of author do you see/imagine yourself as?

MAB: I see myself as a multicultural writer. I try to write stories that appeal to everyone. I use my cultural experiences and that of others to add spice to my stories.

 

8.       What talent do you wish you had as an author that you don’t have now?

MAB: When I have an idea for my covers, it is often complex. I hope to learn more about graphic design. I would like to create covers that compliment the story. 

9.      Do you have any new releases you’d like to tell us about?

MAB: My new release is BACK AWAY FROM THE SHOES. It’s a glamor mystery.  If you love fashion, you will enjoy this book.  Here’s the Blurb and book trailer:

Life was a breeze for Casey Sullivan until she was blindsided by the unthinkable. Working at the Reinhold Detective Agency comes in handy when the worst and best moments of her life collide. She embarks on a quest that turns out to be more than she bargained for.

I am grateful for the opportunity to interview author Mila A. Ballentine. Interviewing her boosted the confidence of an aspiring author. Thank you, Mila for sharing your creativity and ideas with me.

An Element of Creativity, Author Genevieve Scholl

If I could combine earth, wind, air and fire, it would personify Author Genevieve Scholl. Genevieve and the characters she so graciously shares with the world in her mysteries are intriguing.

She is a quiet fire on the publishing scene but do not underestimate her talent, creativity, and passion for all of her crafts. She dabbles in many creative ventures besides writing. Genevieve is also a photographer, crafter, and a few other intriguing things.

The aspiring paralegal plans to be a district attorney someday. When she arrives at that plateau her stories will get juicier. I am excited to share the following interview with author Genevieve Scholl.

I sat across from her and she spoiled me with her presence. I learned a lot about Genevieve Scholl now it is your turn.

Getting to know Miss Scholl…

1.      I have noticed that many authors seem to dabble in other creative endeavors.   Is there a common denominator you all share?

G.S:  I have been told plenty of times that other authors are into photography as much as I am, although they don’t do it as a career on the side.

2.      What is the one thing you feel all authors have in common?

G.S: Hmmm, that’s an interesting one. I think we’re all different, but I do think that we all have that moment of anxiety in common when we are working on a book.

3.       If you could have a super power, what would it be?

G.S:  Well, being a huge fan of the TV show Charmed, I’d have to say that I would love to be able to freeze people like Piper does. J

4.      Is there a ritual you do each time you start or finish a novel?

G.S: Lol, actually yes. I’m not going to give too much away, but before the start of a new novel I “talk” to my characters. Also, as I’ve mentioned on Facebook before, I become my characters. I find their special personality trait and I experience it as much as I can. Let me explain… For an example, I have one character who loves to sit around her home in a man’s button up shirt; so as I write that story, I wear one also. I always have to wear rings when I am writing. Don't know why, but over the years it has become a superstition of mine. I seem to write better when I am wearing the rings.

5.      What qualities do you feel an author should have to be successful in the world of publishing?

G.S :  I think determination is very important when you are an author. There are a lot of times when you want to give up, but if you don’t have determination, you could never get through those moments. Also, I think a strong personality is important. Especially when it comes to editors and book cover designers. It’s your book, so don’t let anyone walk all over you. Your book should be your decision.

6.      If you could live in any ancient community which would it be and why?

G.S:  Ancient Ireland. All you have to do is read some of the old stories and your heart just sighs… Or at least mine does lol J

7.      Do you have a specific genre that you write in or do you write other genres?

G.S:  I dabble in all genres, but my comfort zone is Erotica.

8.      If you had a commercial spot on a major network and you could advertise your novels, what would you say to the public?

G.S:  Wow, that’s a unique question. I am not very good in front of the camera, so I think I would just be honest and be myself. I’d tell the public that I have a passion for writing and that when you have a passion for something, you should pursue it.

WWMD (what would Mila do?) hmm...

I took the liberty to put myself in her shoes.

M.A.B: Light suspenseful music plays in the background. Genevieve takes a casual stroll through a forest, a man becomes lucid, and a chase follows. Eventually she falls but his muscular arms welcome her and cushions her fall. He looks into her eyes, “I’d like to read to you.”

He removes her book, “A Mother's Day Murder: Donna's Story” from the shoulder bag strapped around his bare chest and starts reading one of her love scene as she swoons below. The camera zooms in and fades out to the pictures of her books.

A Mother's Day Murder: Donna's Story 

 

My Review of...A MOTHER'S DAY MURDER DONNA'S STORY 

From the moment I read the first page, I was invested in the lives of the characters.  If I dared to walk away from the world Genevieve Scholl created, the pages beckoned me and brought me back to the comfort of the pages. When I thought I knew who did what, I was forced to rethink my reasoning.  Still, I cannot forget the love scene, it set fire to the pages and my mind went up in flames with it.  I had to fan myself with my hands.  I truly enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it to other avid readers.  Genevieve Scholl leaves you wanting MORE!

 

A Father's Day Fatality: Tigria's Story  

 

 

My Review of...A FATHER'S DAY FATALITY: TIGRIA'S STORY

 

A Father's Day Fatality Tigria's Story is a fast-paced novel. There is no shortage of mystery or mayhem and the intimate scenes add to the allure of the story. I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book. We are waiting Genevieve...

 

I had a lot of fun doing this interview. Thank you Genevieve Scholl for your time and talents.


Purchase links to her books:

http://www.amazon.com/Fathers-Day-Fatality-Tigrias-Story/dp/1448939801/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1353431733&sr=1-1

http://www.amazon.com/Mothers-Day-Murder-Donnas-Story/dp/1448922836/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1353431733&sr=1-2

 

 

 

Author On The Scene

Authors gather inspiration for their stories from various sources. However, authors use different aspects of each source to aide them in the creative process. Life experience is one of the most fruitful sources to use when writing.  Traveling to foreign countries and listening to music from other cultures can give an author a new perspective. We can learn a lot about our culture through the eyes of someone from another culture. Movies  aide an author with the creative process. No matter what source an author uses it can be an essential part of the journey.

 Academy nominated movies can be extremely helpful. When I watch movies, I watch them to get a sense of how the video editor creates a product that flows from one scene to the other effortlessly. Though I am sure the video editor would not say it was effortless. It is a difficult task. It requires a keen eye and attention to detail. The same is true for music. In every great song there is consistency or else it will sound disjointed. Music can be magical when it is produced properly.  Traveling can be expensive but you do not have to get on a plane to travel. You can watch the Travel Channel, or read travel magazines. When I travel, it brings out my inner child.  I become curious about everything and want to experience the environment.

A movie director, music producer and an author essentially have the same duties.  They create an experience that touches the audience. If there are hiccups in the delivery, it will muddy the experience. 

ü  It is important to blend scenes by connecting something in the previous scene to the next. If a scene ends with a woman swimming at the beach, the next scene can begin with water running over her head in the shower. Water is the common denominator in both scenes. 

Creating seamless scenes is not easy; it takes time to get it right but the reader will be grateful.

Examples of excellent scene transition:

1. The Color Purple – You will need a box of Kleenex. It is a tragic story but the transitions are beautifully executed. 

2. Everybody’s Fine – It is a thought provoking movie with nice transitions.

3. The Avengers – It is an action packed movie with nice transitions.

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I'm curious...how do you create seemless scenes?

  

An Enchantress of Mysterious Tales, Author Tonya Kappes

 

We found each other on Facebook. I was attracted to her contagious energy and we shared an enthusiasm for writing.   I noticed that she got a lot of writing done and I wondered, how does she do it? Then, I read an article on her blog, How Bad Do You Want Success? The article helped me to prioritize my energy on the one thing that sustained me besides food and oxygen, writing.  I have considered her a mentor ever since.  As if that was not enough, she asked ‘me’ an author with little fan fare to do a guest blog.  Honestly, it brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart.  Author Tonya Kappes enchanting mysteries are unique. She writes EVERYWHERE she goes and she still managed to rescue birds, a cat and even an orphaned baby rat. It is impossible not to love her.

 

One of my favorite books written by Tonya Kappes is Splitsville.com. It is the first novel in the Olivia Davis Mystery Series and is a double finalist in the Next Generation Indie Book Awards in the Mystery and Humorous Categories. A Charming Crime is the latest addition to her collection. There is always a new book brewing at Tonya’s house and I am sure another book will be coming soon.

 

 

 

I got a chance to chat with Tonya Kappes and asked the following questions.

 

1.      Who or what influenced your desire to be an author?

 

T.K: Oh gosh, that is a great question. I’ve always been a good storyteller, but it wasn’t until my husband encouraged me to write did I let my writer inside me out. I haven’t look back since. All I needed was that one person to believe in me.

 

2.      What advice would you give aspiring author?

 

T.K: Plain and simple, WRITE!!!! Make yourself write every single day.

 

3.      What is the most impactful mistake you have made as an author? How did that mistake make you a better author or businessperson?

 

T.K: I don’t think I have made any mistakes. I’m not perfect, but each step of the way, whether good or bad, helped shape my career. I made sure to document everything. Once I felt like I could help other authors, I started my blog and wrote a non-fiction book that helps authors market and promote their novels from the time they decide to write until the time they type THE END on their career.

 

4.      If you could change anything in the publishing industry, what would it be?

 

T.K: Nothing. It’s a great time to be in the publishing industry no matter what journey to publication you take. I’m not worried about everyone else, I just worry about my career and how to reach my reader.

 

5.      If you had a choice of writing on the moon or on a secluded island which would you choose and why?

T.K: I’d definitely choose the secluded island. I’m not sure how I could write with moon gear on.

 

If you haven’t experienced a Tonya Kappes creation you should.  You can start with the Grandberry Falls Box Set Books 1,2, and 3 [Kindle Edition] and you will get three for the price of two!

You can purchase her novels at:

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Createspace (print)
Google Books

 

Indiebound
Kobo
Smashwords

Thank you Tonya Kappes for being an awesome human being and taking the time out of your busy schedule to answer my questions.