Work In Progress
 
I had the best intentions of turning all my efforts and free time to working on the crime novel featuring Leo Agonasti.  With almost 55,000 words written, progress was being made. My plan was to finish the manuscript, hand it off to a couple of beta readers and get it ready to submit to a certain publisher. 

That was the plan.
​
But as Mel Brooks would say, “Man plans and God laughs”
 

Scenes and ideas for what will eventually become the fourth Jefferson Chene mystery continue to demand my attention. Chene, Simone, Pappy and the rest of the crew would have to be patient, remaining in the background until Leo’s book was done.

 Also, part of the plan.

Then a concept reared its ugly head. Even if I knuckled down and finished the crime novel, there was absolutely no guarantee that the publisher I have in mind (if the book is accepted) would have it ready for publication in 2025. The same realization is true if I shifted my attention to the Chene novel.

But I’ve grown to like having a new book on my display table each year.  In 2021, it was Stealing Haven.  2022 brought The Wayward Path. 2023 Jamie returned with Chasing Favors. And this year, Rules of Desperation joined the party. I really wanted something new for my display next year.

Which meant a shifting of the gears and a change to the plan. If you listen closely, you can probably hear Mel Brooks laughing.

That lead me to a crime novella. The idea is to crank out about 25,000 words on a story.  Almost 7,000 words are already written. When the first draft is complete, I’ll tag my team of beta readers, clean it up and send it out for editing.  Then I will self-publish this in 2025.  My string of new material each year will continue.  Once that is done, I’ll be able to return my energies to Leo Agonasti and the crime novel. 

It’s just that easy.
 
 
Character Interview
 
With the release of “Rules of Desperation” earlier this year, I had a request from Diana Kathryn Penn to ‘interview’ Nicholas Burr, the protagonist in that story.  Here’s the result of that ‘conversation’.
 
I understand that you were a ghostwriter of a young adult series before the novel came out.  What made you choose to write in such an opposing style for your first solo project? 

It’s part of the challenge any artist takes, to stretch their talents. What’s important is to know your audience and make sure what you’re writing appeals to them.  After completing each book in the young adult series, I tried my hand at writing a mainstream novel.

How does writing that series differ from writing Justifiable Homicide? 

In the Skipper series, there is a sense of youth and innocence. The main characters are smart and clever. They are comfortable with each other. There’s no controversy between them.

I’ve always been drawn to mysteries.  For this tale, I just dug a little deeper, getting a glimpse of the dark side. I had to get in the mindset of someone who would do whatever it took to achieve their goal.

Did you have a different approach or process? What was different about your research? 

The process is the same.  I let my imagination wander and put the characters in different situations.  With this novel, I referred to a lot of newspaper accounts about murders and unsolved crimes. It was important that the readers could sympathize with the main character and root for him.

Did you collaborate with the other ghostwriters? 

Not on this project. Just to clarify, when writing the Skipper series, I do those on my own.  There have been several different ghost writers over the years. Some may have collaborated, but not with me.  

Which came to you more naturally, writing for the series, or writing the novel?  I’ve done several books in the series, so it’s easy for me to slip into the storyline and write. Although Skipper and Jojo aren’t my own creation, I’ve gotten to know them well over the years. I must admit to reading the series as a kid, so even though they are fictional, they’re like good old friends.

Was there a scene or character in Justifiable Homicide that, upon final edit, didn't make it into the book? 

Yes, that’s not uncommon.

Why did you (or your editor) make the cut?

With Justifiable Homicide, there was some debate about whether the protagonist would get caught, or whether he would get away with it.  I wrote an alternative ending where just before he disappears, ready to start his new life, the scene shifts and he’s sitting in a prison cell, replaying all the steps he took.  That wasn’t satisfactory to me or the editor, so it was cut.

Is there anything about who you are, or some aspect of your lifestyle, that you would exchange to become a better/more famous writer?

The events of our lives impact our abilities to create. My life hasn’t been all sunshine, lollipops, rainbows and unicorns. Fame can be fleeting. If my next book isn’t a hit, that will just ignite my passion to write a better story.  Life’s journey can fuel your efforts. A shortcut doesn’t guarantee anything. I’d rather earn the acceptance and rewards than have it handed to me.

The pressure of the trial must have weighed heavily on you.  With the constant questioning (and perhaps a feeling of being gaslighted) from the police, was there ever a time during that process where you doubted your own innocence, and perhaps felt close to a confession just to make it all go away? 

I am innocent. So, there was nothing to confess to. Early in their investigation, I offered to take a polygraph, so the cops could rule me out as a suspect.  I was certain that once they had the results, they would move on.  When it came to the trial, my attorneys assured me that the case against me was weak. They felt certain I’d be exonerated.

The prosecutor made many comparisons between the case of your missing wife to the novel you wrote.  Is that simply mere coincidence, or are some elements of those characters, motivations, and locations based in real life? 

 (Smiles) Life imitates art. Or is it the other way around? There are some writing coaches who encourage people to write what you know. 

I may have taken some liberties, using my own situations to shape the conflicts with my characters. The struggles between the husband and wife, the way the marriage was deteriorating, could be seen as a reflection of my own life.  People change. Part of writing fiction is to draw from your own experiences and build on those to create an interesting story.

You've been on a whirlwind press junket to promote the new release.  How have you found becoming an instant celebrity? 

It’s been a little odd. I’m used to just being a guy in the background. After appearing on some of the talk shows, people have spotted me in restaurants and airports.  Everyone wants a selfie or an autograph.

Are you having fun, or would you rather go back home and focus on the next book, writing in relative anonymity?

 (laughs) I don’t think going back is an option. Once the initial dose of celebrity winds down, I’ll return to the shadows and get back to work.

Writing and promoting a book can be emotionally draining and stressful, although, truly, we never saw it on you.  What were the worst and best parts of that adventure, and if you ever became overwhelmed, what did you do to recharge and walk out into another day in the public spotlight?

 The best was that I had some time to recharge between most of the appearances. That was part of the publisher’s strategy from the onset.  Flights and car services took me from the airports to the studios or television stations, so I wasn’t fumbling for rides. Each hotel I stayed in had a swimming pool, so I was able to get in a dozen laps or so. It was a great way to keep in shape and clear my head.  (Laughs) The worst part was waking up in a strange hotel room each morning. It often took me a few minutes to figure out what city I was in. That was a bit unnerving.

Many writers have a playlist of specific music that they listen to while they write, others prefer silence.  Which is best for you... and if you have a playlist, what are three songs from that list?

I can work in silence, but don’t prefer it.  Music is essential to life.  I like variety. It’s not unusual for certain songs to help set the mood or the scene.  Here are three from my playlist. The Five Browns: Rhapsody in Blue
https://youtu.be/AWsjRK-yQvk?si=pBEkxn-mHBzymhIh

Rickie Lee Jones: Woody & Dutch on the Slow Train to Peking https://youtu.be/qhBgGwr_Ktg?si=eQgW94Kw940aQWW0

The Commitments: Mustang Sally
https://youtu.be/4eUJElS45gE?si=p-XwG4N19L01U4jp
​
I don't know if your publisher is going to produce an audiobook version of Justifiable Homicide, but if they do, who would be your ideal celebrity narrator(s)?
That’s a great question.  Matt Bomer would do a wonderful job on this story. 

Ray Charles was a singer, songwriter and pianist and one of the country’s most iconic performers. Charles was the pioneer of soul music, combining blues, jazz and gospel into popular music. His career spanned from 1945 to the early 2000s.

Charles won 17 Grammys and was part of the inaugural group elected to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He was the recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors in 1986.

Here’s my top 5 favorites from Ray Charles.

Hit the Road Jack.  https://youtu.be/CyVuYAHiZb8?si=n32aVyhVp4aCwrqF

What’d I Say: https://youtu.be/pVwIMNkTPSc?si=QR5OjapOLwR3vcaW

I Got A Woman: https://youtu.be/lp246rpr2ck?si=A11enCpFWih1yf9g

Mess Around: https://youtu.be/tk_xapZSO6g?si=4z9Zy6fyHqsTmrMv
​
Night Time:  https://youtu.be/PuNzqDUvods?si=HEuOeffpoYDTfTUS
 

Events
 
Outdoor festivals are drawing to a close as the weather in Michigan turns a little unfriendly.  The last one on the calendar is Coldwater’s Apple Harvest Festival on September 21. I have also been invited to Durand for the Fall Author Extravaganza on October 12.  This one is held in a historic train station.

Here are my top five favorites.

Southern Cross:  https://youtu.be/Bw9gLjEGJrw?si=NeQG3wkwMQa5lnjx

Marrakesh Express:  https://youtu.be/0TYq9RjdYYU?si=D__bmf_DVLIkDU4P

Love the One You’re With:
https://youtu.be/SY4HI_vqf0c?si=G411s0ivL618WKcu

Suite: Judy Blue Eyes: https://youtu.be/ZGT0P0XJRFM?si=hOyKGWrZvEFSKNTF
​
 Just a Song:
https://youtu.be/_UoneXjfBC0?si=Qa4BlXae2DvlNFsF
 
 

The 52nd Issue
Wait! It’s that time again already!  Didn’t I just do this yesterday?

Obviously, nothing stops the calendar. The days keep marching on. Time for updates on writing, events, works in progress, an interview with an award-winning author and music.  And to shake things up a little, I’m also introducing a contest.

Ready?

Let’s rock.
 
Writing
 
In addition to my efforts as a writer, I also teach at a local college. One of the things that drives me crazy is students who wait until the last possible minute to submit their assignments. More often than not, these efforts will include multiple errors.  This can be anything from spelling and grammar issues to fragments and run-on sentences.

Annoying. 

And it usually costs them points.

So many mistakes can be discovered and corrected by simply proofreading your work. This same point holds true for authors.  It doesn’t matter if you’re a newbie or on a bestseller’s list. These mistakes can disrupt even the best story.
These factual errors irritate me. It’s worse when they appear in a new novel produced by one of the major publishers. No doubt there was a team of editors charged with checking and doublechecking the manuscript. Or maybe the editors just assume Mr. Bestseller would never make such blatant mistakes.

Yeah, right!

I just finished such a book. It was gigantic. More than 800 pages in length. There was a lot of action and backstory here.  I’ve read several novels by this author before and usually enjoy them.  But early on, there was an error, where a character, who had lost his right arm at the shoulder during the war, suddenly had full use of that arm.  That irked me.  I brushed it off and kept reading. 

And then it happened again!

Now the character uses the missing arm and hand to scoop up a gun, execute some type of ninja warrior Matrix style move and fire three shots at his assailant.  All with a limb and fingers he doesn’t have!

Such sloppiness should have been caught by the author early on and certainly by someone on the editing team.
After finishing the book, I’m less than pleased. Chances are I’m not likely to read something else by this guy.  
Yet there’s a lesson here. This makes me strive that much harder to study every detail, every line, every bit of dialogue that goes into my novels. I don’t want to disappoint the readers with sloppy work. If I’m able to hook a reader with one book, I hope they’ll enjoy it and return for more.
 
Proofreading is an essential part of the process. Take the time and get it right! Your readers will thank you.

Events
 
I’ve created a monster! As this newsletter goes ‘live’ I’m in the midst of six weekend shows in a row! What moron booked me with back-to-back events, three of which run both Saturday and Sunday?  What was he thinking?

Oh wait!

That was me.

Never mind.
​
Upcoming shows include the Hazel Park Art Fair on August 24 and 25, the South Haven All Craft Fair on August 31 and September 1, Paw Paw’s Wine & Harvest Festival on September 7 and 8, Saugatuck’s Art in the Park on September 14 AND Coldwater’s Apple Harvest Festival on September 21.

Works in Progress
 
The crime novel keeps moving forward. 52,000 words is right around the corner and more scenes keep coming to mind.  I’ve been working on the timeline, so it’s easier to identify any scenes that are needed to tie everything together.

To add to my efforts, ideas for the next Jefferson Chene mystery are also refusing to wait their turn.  It’s been my practice when something like this occurs to get to the keyboard and write.  Only after doing that am I able to switch gears and get back to Leo Agonasti and the crime novel.
​
My target for Leo’s story is 80,000 words by the end of October. We’ll see if that’s feasible.  

The Contest

 Seeking Jamie Richmond

This year I’ve been participating in many art festivals and events to display and sell my books.  As any salesperson worthy of a commission would say, you need multiple pitches to attract customers to your products.  That means I have one set that relates to the Jefferson Chene police procedural mysteries, a pitch for the new release Rules of Desperation and of course a different spiel for the Jamie Richmond series.

Truth be told, Jamie is one of the most memorable characters I’ve created. She’s intelligent, clever, loyal, diligent, loving and possesses a real smart-ass attitude, along with a sharp sense of humor. Did I mention she’s a redhead? Yep!
Physically, Jamie has been described as slender, standing about five foot seven, with emerald green eyes. She’s in her early thirties.

One of my pitches for the Jamie books comes into play when a redheaded female passes near my table.  Author Cecilia A. Garcia, who has shared my booth on a few occasions, refers to this pitch as ‘shameless’. 

I’ll ask the lady if by chance she modeled for one of the covers. That usually leads to a smile.  Sometimes it also leads to a sale.

As Cecilia said ‘shameless!’

Recently I shared this with Melissa Keir at Inkspell, who publishes the Jamie series.  She replied, ‘I hope you have a bunch of redhead women of various ages who follow you from event to event, just to talk about your books.’
And that’s when inspiration struck.

Why not have a little contest, seeking possible Jamies?

From now until the end of September, any ladies can submit a picture holding up one of the five Jamie Richmond mysteries. You don’t have to be a redhead.  You could share Jamie’s spirit of curiosity, stubbornness and vitality. While there is no redhead on the cover of “Vanishing Act” it’s still an integral part of the series.

The grand prize winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card.  Second, third and fourth place winners (in the US) will receive an autographed copy of “Stealing Haven”. If you’re a winner outside the country, you’ll get a free e-book. Winners will be drawn at random.

To sweeten the deal, the winners’ names will be used for characters in an upcoming Jamie Richmond novel.           Pictures can be posted on my Facebook Author page, Instagram page or sent directly to me at [email protected].

Ready for your closeup?

​Author Spotlight
 
 I’ve known Brenda Hasse for several years now.  We’ve often crossed paths at some of the same events. It’s time to learn more about this talented multi[le award winning writer.

Tell us a little about yourself and how you became an author.

My story is one of irony. As a child, I hated to read. I would rather clean my bedroom than read a book. It was hard for me. I had difficulty learning to read and was labeled as a ‘slow reader’ during my elementary school years. I was pulled from my classroom weekly and worked with a paraprofessional to improve my reading skills. Maybe I developed my storytelling during those years. I think many people get the urge to write a book during their lifetime, as did I. I wrote my first novel, improved my writing the more I wrote, and have now finished my 17th book. I have received several awards for my writing. I have also written for a few magazines too. I live in Fenton, Michigan with my husband, Chuck, and two cats, Petey and Max.

Do you ever imagine one of your novels being made into a movie or television series? 

Writing a novel is hard work. It’s a lot of keeping your bottom in your chair and fingers on the keyboard. I think it is only natural to want to share something that you have created with others, whether it being a sculpture, painting, photography, or writing. Since some people don’t like to read, having a novel made into a movie or television series is another medium in which to reach those people and have them enjoy your work. I believe every author hopes to have their novel appreciated by as many people as possible.

Any favorite actors you’d cast in the lead roles?

I don’t have any favorite actors/actresses. I would leave that decision to the experts. I believe it would be necessary to have at least one well-known actor but hope an actor who is just starting out would get the opportunity to catapult their career by being cast too.

What is your writing process? For instance, do you do an outline first? Do you write the chapters in sequence?
​
I define myself as a plantser. I usually have a rough outline and always know how the book will end before I begin to write. I’m flexible in my writing and will change or add to the storyline while I write. I have tried pantsing, but usually delete 2/3 of what I have written, put together an outline, and begin again. As far as my process, I write a rough draft, go through it a second time fleshing out the characters and details (developmental edit), then edit once before sending my novel to beta readers. While my novel is being read by my beta reader, I work on writing the blurb and designing the book cover. Based on my beta reader’s recommendation, I make changes, edit at least twice and ensure the format is correct before publishing.

Tell us about the characters in your latest book.
​
My latest book, The Healer’s Apprentice (expected publication October 1, 2024), is the first book in The Town Witch trilogy. There are 28 characters in the book, with several featured in all three books. The romantic suspense trilogy is set in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1788 – 1829. Haggadah Blyth is the main character. Book 1 is how Haggadah becomes the town healer.

Book 2 – The Cursed Witch is based on a true event – Anna Stewart was 18 years old when she was declared dead. She was buried in a graveyard. Within 24 hour, two homeless men dug her body up to sell it to the anatomy theater for dissection by the medical students, but when they threw her body on the ground, Anna sneezed, sat up, and the men ran away leaving her amongst the graves. The Cursed Witch is about who tried to kill Anna and why.

The third book – The Parade of Souls takes place on the Eve of Saint Mark (April 24). Haggadah discovers a young lady, Sophie, standing outside the graveyard. The town witch has Sophie accompany her to sit on the stoop of the church and watch the parade. Between the hours of 11:00 and 1:00, spirits rise from the graveyard and pass through the closed door of the church. The spirits are the souls of the people who will die in the coming year. Unfortunately, Sophie recognized one of the spirits and hopes to stop them from dying.

Do the characters all come to you at the same time or do some of them come to you as you write?

The main characters are established before I begin writing. However, secondary characters tend to appear as I write and flesh out the storyline.

What is your latest book about?
​
My latest book is The Healer’s Apprentice. It tells the story of how Haggadah became the town witch, her romance with Tavish, and the struggles she faces in her life.

Can you share an excerpt?
Here is an excerpt from The Healer’s Apprentice –
 
Chapter 1 
 
Edinburgh, Scotland – February 1786
 
Haggadah leaned out of the room’s only window and snatched the damp clothing from the rope that spanned the width of the narrow cobblestone lane. She stared at the chaos of people that resembled scrambling ants in the crowded passageway several stories below. A steady drizzle of rain dampened her face, forcing her back inside to help her mother, Freya, pack what little they had. “It’s starting to rain.”

       A young woman of ten and six, Haggadah watched her mother shove a nub of a candle, a stale half-loaf of bread, a jar of preserves they received as a gift, and a small tin containing two coins into the carpetbag.

       The satchel had been a gift from Frey’s wealthy employer, or so Haggadah had been told. Even though her mother tried to shield her from the harsh realities of life, Freya confided the truth of her pregnancy. As a maid, she had been raped by her employer. Once the growing child within her became apparent, the man’s uncompassionate wife fired Freya from her job to save the wealthy family from social embarrassment or perhaps continue the masquerade of her marriage. Cast out into the street, Freya was left to struggle on their own. With a few coins to her name, the expectant mother became a tenant in a crowded room on Niddry’s Wynd, giving her a roof over her head.

       When it came time for the baby to be born, Frey’s labor was long and laborious. Concerned, one of the women fetched the town healer to help with the difficult birth. As the infant was placed in her arms, she stared at her daughter's innocent, cherub face. Even though her pregnancy had cost her dearly, she considered the baby a blessing.

       Haggadah knew she was loved, for her mother often told her so. Together, the pair found a way to survive. After all, they had no other choice.

       Six months ago, they watched from a distance on the first day of August as the Grand Master Mason, Lord Haddo, laid the cornerstone for the construction of the South Bridge and announced the demolition of the building to make way. Now that the construction contract was awarded, word spread throughout the building of the tenants' immediate eviction. The crew would begin tearing down the tenements by day’s end.

       Haggadah handed the damp, tattered garments to her mother.

       Three resounding knocks from a strong fist sounded upon the door, warning the pair that their time in the tiny apartment had ended.

       Panic sparked within Haggadah’s heart as she looked at the closed apartment door and then at her mother. “Mum?”

       Freya frantically glanced around the room as footfalls echoed from the staircase. She looked at her daughter and nodded toward the superstitious herb handing on the wall. “Grab the bay leaves. We must hurry.” After placing the wadded clothing in the center of their threadbare blanket, she tied the opposite corners together, forming a makeshift knapsack. The mild exertion caused Freya to cough. She paused to inhale a wheezing, deep breath and gather her strength.

       Haggadah pulled the bay leaves from the nail where they hung. Even though she and her mother attended Mass every Sunday, always praying for a better life, they believed in the silly wives’ tale of the herb warding off any witches or evil doers. Haggadah gave her mother the dried and dusty herb before scanning the dirty, bare walls and room. It was odd to see it empty of the twenty people usually huddled together and sleeping on the floor. She watched her mother place the talisman in the carpetbag.

       Heavy footfalls echoed on the stairs as the tenants from the upper two floors evacuated the building. Haggadah was thankful she would never climb the twelve flights of stairs to get to their apartment again, but where would she and her mother live now? The four walls were the only home she had ever known.

       “Put on your cloak.” Freya ordered as she took both garments from the peg on the wall and handed one to her daughter. “Then slip your arms through the ties,” she gave the makeshift knapsack to her daughter, “and carry this on your back.” A cough rattled deep within her chest once again.

       Concern masked Haggadah’s face as she adjusted the knapsack on her back and waited with her hand on the doorknob for her mother to catch her breath. She took one last look at the room. Even though their home was often cold during the winter, reeked from the excrement in the bucket used as a chamber pot, and the air was filled with smoke from the small fireplace, at least it protected them from the weather. No longer would they have that luxury.

       “We must go.” Freya picked up the carpetbag, jingling the two coins in a small tin at its bottom.

       Haggadah opened the door, stepped forward, and nearly collided with a barrel-chested man rushing down the stairs.

       Freya stepped forward and turned to grasp the doorknob. She saw the nearly full bucket in the corner of the room. No one had thrown its contents to the street below at the stroke of ten the previous night. It was of no concern to her now. The single mother left the room, closing the door.

       Looking over her shoulder to ensure her mother was behind her, Haggadah descended the stairs at a slow pace, hoping her matriarch could do so without becoming winded. As she stepped onto the cobblestone pavement of Niddry’s Wynd, she looked heavenward at the gray morning sky. Its continued drizzle reflected the sorrow in her heart. Haggadah pulled her hood onto her head and turned, expecting her mother. Instead, a nicely dressed family stepped onto the narrow, cobbled street. She assumed they had lived on a floor in the center of the building where the more well-off families resided. Haggadah was thankful to have lived on the upper floors rather than the lowest, where the poorest of the poor resided. The stench from the dumped chamber pots permeated their walls, making it unbearable to open windows for a reprieve from the stench.

       When Freya joined her, they followed the parade of former residents through the narrow passage. Haggadah envied the wealthy who could afford a room at boarding houses, that is, if they could find one. Like many others, she and her mother’s future looked bleak. Echoes of fussy babies, inquisitive children, and footfalls droned like a marching garrison as people walked toward the main street.

       Haggadah stepped over a rivulet of sewage streaming downhill to Nor Loch. She looked over her shoulder at her mother, who was coughing again. “Where should we go?” She flattened herself against the wall, allowing a robust woman to pass by.

       Freya shook her head. “I don’t ken.” With only a few coins to their name, she knew they could not afford a room. She reasoned the money would be better spent on food. The ill woman thought of the only place to bide their time until nightfall. “This way.” Freya headed north toward Nor Loch with her daughter following.

       Haggadah’s shoulder was bumped by several people in the narrow passage as she tried to follow closely behind her frail mother.

       Freya stopped abruptly, causing her daughter to collide with her back. She grabbed Haggadah’s arm, silently encouraging her to do as she did and flatten herself against the stone wall. A hooded figure stopped before them.

       Haggadah held her breath as her steel gray eyes stared into the emerald eyes of the old hag staring back at her. She wished the woman with the renowned reputation as a witch would move on. What was seconds seemed like several minutes. Gooseflesh pricked her arms as the old woman stared with intrigue at Haggadah until she satisfied her curiosity. The old woman glanced at Freya, then moved on.

       Exhaling, Haggadah turned to her mother. “That was the healing witch, wasn’t it?”

       Freya nodded. “Aye, Grizel.”

       “What is she doing in this part of the city?”

       “It’s none of your concern, nor mine.”

       Haggadah watched as people in the passage stepped aside, giving a wide berth for Grizel to pass through the narrow lane.

       Everyone knew where the town healer lived. All they had to do was look at the night sky and see the billowing green smoke emanating from her chimney as she conjured in her ancient cottage several blocks away.

       Haggadah shivered as a chill went up her spine. She hoped to never cross paths with the old hag again.
 
What’s the next project you’ll be working on?

I’m not sure. I’ve thought about rewriting A Lady’s Destiny, but I have several other storylines in mind.

You can learn more about Brenda and her books at her website.
www.BrendaHasseBooks.com 

Music

Many of the top hits from the band Journey remain popular today.  The original band, formed in the early 1970s, with Steve Perry as the lead vocalist, had a record of 19 top 40 singles and had more than 20 albums achieved gold and platinum status.  They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.

Here are my top five favorites.
​
Don’t Stop Believing. https://youtu.be/1k8craCGpgs?si=4-S1mx1nZ5k5i_SE
Faithfully: https://youtu.be/OMD8hBsA-RI?si=vSvVfBb8nDSztGzS
Any Way You Want It: https://youtu.be/atxUuldUcfI?si=lZBwGB6gKbUV6Bg7
Lovin’ Touchin’ Squeezin’: https://youtu.be/fTkHFQC3wow?si=3xmfixtWAYG3mdUQ
Open Arms:  https://youtu.be/i5pUOVC50Y8?si=3slu77Al24EL3nEI

        ‘Write a newsletter’, a friend once said. ‘It’s a great way to share details about your efforts as a writer. Include some special features. Make it different from all the other ones.’

          Difficult to believe that was more than four years ago. This monthly spot continues with bits about my writing, upcoming events, works in progress, interviews with talented authors and music. Variety is a wonderful thing!

          Ready?
​
          Let’s roll.

Writing
          “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell just as sweet.” 

         You probably recognize Shakespeare’s line here from Romeo and Juliet.  It’s appropriate for this section on writing. 

          I’m a sucker for unusual names. As a kid many of the characters in books I enjoyed had common, everyday names. They were as plain as white bread and mayonnaise.  That’s boring! The characters’ names can give you a clue as to how they might behave, if the writer puts some thought into it.

          Some writers will use a random name generator app. But that takes all the fun out of it.    
  
          A great resource I’ve discovered is capturing the names of people I meet during the day. This is especially true at the events I participate in.   So far this year, I’ve met young ladies named Breezy, Arizona, Alura, Sharmane, Nikkia, Cheyanne, Kayleigh, Rebekah, Brittney, Mina, Madisyn, Destinee and Avva. 

        Sure, some of these may be just unique spelling of common names, but that’s the point. I want to celebrate the differences by using some of these for my characters.  

        One of the reference books I use that’s been on my shelf for years is the Character Naming Sourcebook.  It gives the nationality and the meaning for various names.  This is my go-to book for the background on names. Sometimes I’ll pull them directly from there.
​
         The more distinctive the name, the more memorable the character. And that’s what I’m striving for.  Because if the readers remember the names, they may just come back to buy another book. 
          

Events
          The caravan continues!  Next stops on my wandering around the Mitten State include: Dowagiac’s Summer Festival on July 19 and 20, (Main & Front Street) the SterlingFest in Sterling Heights on July 27, (in front of the library on Dodge Park) 

Art in the Park in Holland on August 3 (Centennial Park, Central and 10th) and the Treasures & Treats Craft Show, part of Howell’s Melon Festival on August 17 (First Presbyterian Church, 323 W. Grand River).

Work In Progress

        Writing on the crime novel continues.  I’ve passed the 50,000 word mark on the first draft, which is encouraging. That means it’s time for me to go back through the manuscript, scene by scene, and start putting them together into some type of timeline.  This helps me determine what details need to be expanded on.  It also provides me with the opportunity to consider scenes that are needed to connect the subplots with the main story.  It’s part of the process that has always served me well.  With any luck I’ll write another three to five thousand words this month.
​
          Time will tell. 

Author Interview

          I am proud to be part of the Inkspell Publishing family.  That’s the house that brings the Jamie Richmond books to life.  Somehow I think that means Libby Kay and I are related, since she’s also with Inkspell.  You know her stories would be great if they were accepted for publication there.
​
          Let’s learn a bit more about her. 

Tell us a little about yourself and how you became an author.

I’m a bit of a cliché, I’m afraid. I’m a librarian who has had a lifelong obsession with books. Some of my earliest memories are going to the library for the summer reading program. I’d leave with armfuls of books, hiding away in the house behind a stack of stories.

As I got a little older, I started doodling little picture books. Granted, it was basically 2-dimensional sketches, but I loved crafting the words that built the story. (There’s a reason I’m glad Inkspell has cover artists—I cannot draw to save my life!)

I love writing. It’s an escape and inspirational place for me to go. While I only published my first book in 2022, I’ve been writing since I was a teenager. (And trust me when I tell you, that was a long time ago.) Getting my stories out to readers is a dream come true, if you’ll excuse another cliché. I’ve had readers reach out and share how my stories touched them or made them believe in love again. That is so rewarding, and it puts the biggest smile on my face!

When I’m not reading and writing, I spend time with my husband and hike or travel. I’m a homebody, but we love to get away on weekends and explore the Midwest. If we happen to find a delicious restaurant in our travels, all the better. 😉

Do you ever imagine one of your novels being made into a movie or television series? 

Yes, more often than I should admit. 😉

My Buckeye Falls series has Virgin River and Sweet Magnolias vibes, so I’d love to see it turned into a Netflix or Hallmark series. That will always be the dream.

Any favorite actors you’d cast in the lead roles?

What’s that expression? Beggars can’t be choosers? If my books were turned into a movie or TV show, I wouldn’t push too hard for any certain celebrity.

I have a hodgepodge of people in mind when I write my characters, and it’s rarely just one person. Unfortunately, the one person I do envision with a character is no longer with us. (For those of you who read Falling Again, Anthony is modeled after JFK Jr. Swoon!)

What is your writing process? For instance, do you do an outline first? Do you write the chapters in sequence?

In the world of pantsing or plotting—I’m definitely a panster.
​
I have a brief outline of what will happen in the book, using beat sheets from Gwen Hayes’s book Romancing the Beat. But overall, I write in the moment and write in sequence. When I get stuck in a certain passage, I usually work on the epilogue to get me focused on the couple’s happily ever after. 

Describe the characters in your latest book.

My most recent release is Faking the Fall. It’s book 4 in my Buckeye Falls series, but like all the books can be enjoyed as a stand-alone read.

 Faking the Fall follows Alice and James, and one of my favorite tropes: fake dating! Alice is a bit of a free spirit who spent the last decade traveling and going to school. Now she’s back home in Buckeye Falls, but she isn’t ready to settle down yet. The only problem? Her family and neighbors won’t get off her back about her sad dating life.

 Enter James, a sweet hearted (and adorable!) artist who recently relocated to town after a bitter divorce. He’s been hiding away working on his newest collection, but he’s lacking that creative sparkle. When he and Alice meet, James sees the perfect muse to get his creative juices flowing. Alice finds the perfect fake boyfriend to please her fellow Buckeyes.

The only problem with their little scheme? When they start to catch real feelings.

Do the characters all come to you at the same time or do some of them come to you as you write?

When I started writing the Buckeye Falls series, I envisioned a trilogy. I had firm ideas for Max, Evan, and Anthony to get their happily ever afters. But the more I wrote, the more I wanted to give Alice and Mallory their own stories. They played big parts in helping their brothers find love, and I couldn’t imagine leaving those girls hanging. 😊

What is your latest book about?

Sparks fly when a reclusive artist meets his muse in this new installment of the Buckeye Falls series.

Alice Snyder knows her reputation—and if she didn’t, Buckeye Falls loves to remind her. She may come from the town’s First Family, but that doesn’t mean she plays by the rules. After a decade of traveling and going to school, she’s back home and ready to settle down, or at least relax for a while. The trouble is, her neighbors are determined to find her a husband. She needs a way to get them off her back…

When James Gibson, a divorced artist, flees New York for the peace of small-town Ohio, he’s excited to get painting again. The only trouble is, he’s completely blocked. Despite his best efforts, his collection of canvases are blank and he’s at a career crossroads. A chance meeting with the mayor’s sister throws James’s routine off balance, and he’s eager to spend more time with this quirky spitfire.

And Alice might have the solution to both their problems…

Fake Date.

She gets the Nosey Nellies off her back, and James gets time with a woman who inspires him both inside and outside the studio.

 Just a few weeks of pretending, and they’ll move on. Simple, right? The trouble is the more time they spend together, the realer their relationship feels. The laughter, the stolen kisses—it all starts to feel like more.

Can these two be honest with each other and find their happily-ever-after, or are they doomed for a real breakup?
​
For anyone who is a Buckeye Falls fan, stay tuned this August for the final novel in the series--Forever to Fall. This is Mallory’s happily ever after with Beckett, her brother’s best friend and first love. Check out my Instagram and Facebook pages for a cover reveal and teasers later in July! 

Libby Kay’s FAKING THE FALL redeems Buckeye Falls’s spinster troublemaker with a fake relationship romance filled with sweet small town vibes.  FAKING THE FALL will bring to mind amazing books like Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams and Fix Her Up by Tessa Bailey. But best of all, it returns readers to the small Ohio town and the familiar characters from the previous Buckeye Falls books. All the zany, overbearing, and well-meaning ones! So, sit back and grab FAKING THE FALL for the latest roller-coaster romance by Libby Kay.
 
Can you share an excerpt too?

The air had a delicious freshness to it, a faint hint of leaves and spice in the air.

“This was one of the best nights I’ve had in a while.” Alice only broke away from James’s hold when they reached the car. “Seriously, just what I needed.”

The itching in his fingers told James the evening was not only enjoyable, but also inspirational. The fading sunlight gave Alice a glow he wanted to capture on canvas. But first, he needed to kiss her again. Kissing Alice felt urgent, a necessity to keep him going.

Pinning Alice against the side of his car, James caged his arms on either side of her. Keeping six inches of distance between them, he waited a moment for her to object. He was coming on strong, especially for a fake boyfriend, but he couldn’t stay away. Alice had this magnetic energy, and James was powerless to resist.

 “Alice.” Her name escaped on a rasp. She slowly lifted her head, and James knew she felt this too. This was not a one-sided attraction; what burned between them was too strong, too special. “I’m going to kiss you now.”

“Okay.” She nodded, jutting her tongue out to lick her bottom lip. Any control James had evaporated into the early autumn air. Cupping her face, he closed the remaining distance and kissed her like his life depended on it. Because from where James was standing, it very well might. Alice felt like his lifeblood, and not just creatively. Getting her to smile, watching her come out of her shell was all he wanted in the world.

What’s the next project you’ll be working on?

 I just got an Inkspell contract for a new book, When Sparks Fly. This is still a sweet, smalltown romance, but it’s set in Georgia and follows a team of firefighters as they fall in love. I’m envisioning a trilogy for this series. When Sparks Fly will release in April 2025. Stay tuned for more details!

For anyone who is a Buckeye Falls fan, stay tuned this August for the final novel in the series--Forever to Fall. This is Mallory’s happily ever after with Beckett, her brother’s best friend and first love. Check out my Instagram and Facebook pages for a cover reveal and teasers later in July!

Faking the Fall buy links:
​
AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CDM9F6LX
KOBO: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/faking-the-fall
BN: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/faking-the-fall-libby-kay/1143866386
APPLE: https://books.apple.com/us/book/id6457364406
Other links:
Website: https://www.libbykayauthor.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libbykayauthor/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LibbyKayAuthor/
Goodreads: Libby Kay https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19377638.Libby_Kay
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/libby-kay

Music

          At a recent event, I was talking about the newsletter with a couple of lovely young ladies who were interested in my books. When I mentioned that music is always a part of my day, they asked for specifics.  It was a pleasant surprise to learn they recognized many of the artists I referred to.  Occasionally I will select a theme instead of just one performer or band.  They challenged me to pick songs with colors in the title.  How could I refuse?

          Normally, I pick five titles, but there was no way to narrow it down, so here’s my top ten tunes.

Santana: Black Magic Woman. https://youtu.be/9wT1s96JIb0?si=zrwnUUlrF6_fGajM

Linda Ronstandt: Blue Bayou. https://youtu.be/Kp9G0zkorio?si=z1cLHcxm9hxJIWYM

Van Morrison: Brown Eyed Girl. https://youtu.be/UfmkgQRmmeE?si=lwWhEvNqcKcixVEu

Mitch Ryder: Devil in a Blue Dress. https://youtu.be/0Ubl1thJwG4?si=7SNUPxxRPSddAbLn

Sting: Fields of Gold. https://youtu.be/5som4EYefio?si=nXUgmiz1v4W7v73F

Spin Doctors: Jimm Olson’s Blues
https://youtu.be/GrQCro68sRU?si=il2NY3MUQwZs14At

Prince: Little Red Corvette.    
https://youtu.be/v0KpfrJE4zw?si=nP-CDmi4nT71jr46

Aretha Franklin: Pink Cadillac. https://youtu.be/Ip_pjb5_fgA?si=I_rEPCcC-KsmUZIU

Bruce Springsteen: Pink Cadillac. https://youtu.be/V4PeT6aeytU?si=PLz-L39i-uE9daOT
​
John Mellencamp: Pink Houses
https://youtu.be/qOfkpu6749w?si=nfSEu7cqgJuHdYxG
 

We were lucky to catch up with Mark Love recently and have shared our conversation below.

Mark , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s something crazy on unexpected that’s happened to you or your business.

My business centers around my efforts as a writer. I’m the author of 9 books that are available in print and eb00k formats. Writing mysteries can be challenging. I want my stories to be believable, so it takes a lot of research to make sure the facts are accurate and pertain to the story.

In addition to selling my books online, I frequently attend various events, such as festivals and art shows. That gives me the opportunity to interact in person with potential readers. It’s essential that I have a number of pitches prepared. In a heartbeat, I have to adjust my pitch to connect with people as they approach my booth. It’s important to be upbeat, friendly and able to engage anyone in a conversation. This is similar to being onstage. It’s improvisation at it’s finest.
At a show last year, an older woman stopped by. She glared at the covers of each book. Then she pointed a crooked finger at the first on display. “What’s this about?” she asked.

I gave her the synopsis, describing what could be found on the back. She frowned, nodded, and hooked her thumb at the one beside it. “And that one?” she asked.

Again, I gave her the details. She repeated the process, scowling at me for more than 15 minutes as we moved through the table’s display.

“So this is all fiction. Basically, you’re just making stuff up!” she said..

I agreed and confirmed that was the definition of fiction. Then I pointed out my efforts to research certain topics that were pertinent to each book. By now, I was ready to chalk it up as a waste of time. That’s when she surprised me and whipped out her credit card.

“I’ll take one of each. But you can’t charge me extra for signing them.”

“Autographs are always free,” I assured her.
​

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
​As a kid, I was an avid reader. While I read a variety of genres, mysteries always captured my attention. Perhaps that is what triggered the storyteller in me.
During my professional career, I worked in many industries in different roles. After spending twenty years as a Human Resources Director or Manager, I was tired of solving problems for employees and management and working for someone else.
Ten years ago, I began teaching business courses at the local college. One course I’ve taught every year since is Small Business Management. This focuses on how to start your own company. Teaching the material gave me insight into how to create and grow my own business.
At the same time, I had been sharpening my skills as a writer. After getting a few short stories published, I started writing novels. Research helped me find a publisher who liked my work. One story lead to another. It was a kick to see my novels get printed. I ended up leaving the first publisher and finding a second one that was more interested in my books.
Ideas kept coming. With the last name of Love (yes, that’s really my name) an editor told me readers would expect a little romance in my books. That led to the Jamie Richmond series, which are now with the Inkspell Publishing House. There are five books so far. “Devious”, “Vanishing Act”, “Fleeing Beauty”, “Stealing Haven” and “Chasing Favors”
I started a second series, about a squad of police detectives investigating major crimes. There are three books in that series to date. The Jefferson Chene mysteries are with The Wild Rose Press.. Those titles include “Why 319?” “Your Turn to Die” and “The Wayward Path”.
I’ve also self-published another book, “Rules of Desperation” was released in May, 2024. It’s my first attempt at self-publishing. It’s an experiment with a standalone book to see how it sells. I also wanted to have a new title on my display table at festivals this year.
I am proud of each book. What is remarkable to me is to see the reactions of people at festivals and events as they become interested in my work. It’s also rewarding when someone from a different venue seeks me out to buy another book in the series.
What sets me apart from other small businesses is two-fold. The books are my product. Each one is a standalone novel, set in contemporary times that the reader can relate to. Books are a great escape. They can also entertain and educate the reader. The second component is me. Whenever I’m at a festival or event, I strive to engage potential buyers, telling them just enough about myself and my books to attract their attention and hopefully result in a sale.
All of my books take place in Michigan, primarily the metropolitan Detroit area. That location becomes a character in my work. So it was only fitting that I named the company “Motown Mysteries”. The name clearly identifies what the business is about.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?Every writer will face rejection at some point. My first attempts at selling stories did not go well. Disappointment reared it’s ugly head. A cloud of doubt began to circle. Was I any good? Could I actually write a story that people would read? Would they enjoy it? How could I surprise the reader? Could I keep them guessing or would they quickly figure out the mystery?
I realized there was another way to improve my writing skills and get paid for it, by transitioning to journalism. I took a couple of journalism courses in college. One instructor recommended me and several other students to a local newspaper who was looking for freelance reporters. Many of the assignments were dull. I covered schoolboard and city council meetings. That led to offers to write editorials and a few feature assignments. Positive feedback from the newspaper editors gave me confidence.
After five years of my side gig as a reporter, I was ready to return to writing fiction.
​

Can you open up about how you funded your business?I have always worked another job. As an HR Director, I was able to set aside funds to slowly start the business. I have to purchase print copies of each of my books from the publishers. While I do get these at a discount, there are other costs I had to keep in mind. Each venue I attended usually charged a fee. Some provided booths, tables and chairs. Others did not.
In the beginning, I picked one event each month during the season (May through September). I tracked the sales and calculated how much profit from each show. The more books I had, the more I sold. The more I sold, the more events I wanted to participate in. During the offseason, I built up the account for the business. I bought my own equipment for the outdoor events. This gave me the opportunity to find new venues.
I closely monitor the sales volume at each show. In most cases, when I register for an event, I’ll check with some fellow authors to see if they are interested and available to join me. If so, that helps to reduce my cost. The less expense for the venue, the easier it is to make a profit. It’s not competition sharing a space with another author. It’s collaboration. We all treat this as a business.
Contact Info:

• Website: https://motownmysteries.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motownmysteries
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarkLoveAuthor
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/motownmysteries

Image Credits“Rules of Desperation” by Pages Promotions LLC
“Chasing Favors” and “Stealing Haven” by Fantasia Frog Designs
“Devious” by Dawne Dominique
“Fleeing Beauty” by Shades of Rose Media
“Why 319?” and “Your Turn to Die” by R J Morris
“The Wayward Path” by Debbie Taylor

​It’s the 19th, so it’s time for the news. There’s a bit about writing, details about new events, my latest project, an interview with another author and of course, music.  There must be music.
​
          As comedy legend Jackie Gleason would say “And Away We Go!”

Writing
 
A subject all authors must be aware of is one I’ve learned the hard way: the pitch.  When I was young and innocent all those decades ago, I just assumed once the story was written, my work would be done.  Then I could move on to the next project.

Talk about naïve.

The pitch is part of marketing.  I believe they are interconnected and extremely necessary to the writer’s efforts.  A few authors I know dedicate one day each week to focus on their marketing efforts.  That could include a mix of social media posts, paid advertisements or entries into different contests or competitions.

Lately my focus has been on the pitch.  While I often post updates and photos on social media, it’s the pitch that draws people in. Your pitch can be written, the various words you use to describe the photos on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter. 

But nothing compares to a live pitch. Here are a couple of examples from the show I was in recently. My booth was all set and ready to go. There was a nice, steady stream of people.  I have learned over the years that being friendly and approachable is the best start.  Smile, wave, say hello or good morning or whatever feels comfortable greeting people as they pass your station.

With 10 books on display, I’ve got a quick spiel already in mind for each of them. Some people will start to pass my booth, only to be drawn in by the colorful covers.  Others may hesitate.  That’s when it’s time to make the pitch.

A lady walking past wore a T shirt emblazoned with LOVE on the front. I asked if we were related, making a play on my last name. She smiled, then stepped closer to check out the books. Her friend tagged along. They asked a few questions.  Turns out they were both in a large book club and we’re always on the lookout for new authors. I explained that if the book club were to read one of my books, I’d be happy to join their meeting, either in person or via a video conference, to answer questions or chat about the characters and my writing process. That led to two sales.

A short time later, a young couple wandered past. The woman had beautiful, thick red hair. I asked if she was one of the cover models used in the Jamie Richmond series.  Her face lit up with a brilliant smile. She picked up each book, studied the covers closely, indicating which ones she liked. Her boyfriend was grinning, shaking his head.

“You could always tell your friends you posed for the cover,” I said. “Or that you were the inspiration for the character.”

“My friends would believe that.”

She bought copies of “Stealing Haven” and “Chasing Favors”.

When asked by others about the pitch, I explain that working these events is like being on stage, doing a play or improv. You need to connect with the audience, which in this case, is made up of potential readers.  Tell them a little something to draw them in.

That’s the pitch.
​
It’s essential.
 

Events
 
The road show continues!  An old friend commented recently that I’m turning into a carney, bouncing from town to town. But I’m having fun!  And it’s a great way to connect with new readers.  You just never know who you’ll see at these events.

I’ll be in Otsego on June 22, then Dowagiac July 19 and 20 and Sterling Heights July 27.

Works In Progress
 
Now that “Rules of Desperation” has been released, I’ve been able to return my attention to “Agonasti’s Dilemma”.  That’s the working title on my crime novel.  Fortunately, I’ve had a bit of free time to write some new scenes.  Once I add another 3,000 words, I’ll have to start sketching it out, deciding what new scenes will be needed to put all the pieces together in some kind of order.

I’ve also been sneaking in a couple of scenes on what will become the fourth book in the Jefferson Chene series.  Ideas keep sneaking into my brain on that one and the only way I can move beyond that point is to write them out.  It’s good to know that Chene, Pappy and the rest of that crew are waiting in the wings. 
​

Author Spotlight
 
          I’ve had the great pleasure of meeting Marianne Wieland several times over the years at different festivals.  She’s also been an active participant in the monthlong virtual festivals, taking the role of a character in the event.  Marianne’s efforts often result in gales of laughter from the audience.
​
          Time to learn a little more about her.

Tell us a little about yourself and how you became an author.

I have been writing in one respect or another most of my life. Before I wrote my first book, I was writing plays and musicals that were performed around the Battle Creek area and occasionally on the east coast. I’ve been on the stage most of my life and as I got older, preferred being behind the scenes directing and producing. About ten years ago I decided to try turning scripts into a novel and it worked out.

Do you ever imagine one of your novels being made into a movie or television series?

 Sometimes.  I was approached years ago after I wrote ‘My Heart for Jill’ to buy the rights to the book for a movie or TV series. It was after the book was accepted by Harlequin. But I had already gone with another publisher at the time. I turned it down because I was a new writer and was planning several sequels. I didn’t want anyone to change it. If I could turn back time…

Any favorite actors you’d cast in the lead roles?
 
I gave it some thought a long time ago. I am sure the ones I had in mind are no longer in the appropriate age range. In ‘My Heart for Jill’ I imagined Karl Urban as Nick Wallace. Steve Martin as Jim Dennison. Andrew Womack as Andrew Wallace. Rufus Sewell as Gerard Wallace. Kaley Cuoco as Brenda Montgomery.

Jennifer Love Hewett as Gwen Wallace. Linda Hunt as Margaret Wallace. No one ever came to mind for Anika Wallace, Matt Dennison or Josie Dennison and no one for Jill.

In ‘Meeting Henry’ I had thought of Richard Flood as Henry. James Marsden as Joe. Nicolas Cage as General Barnett. Larry Joe Campbell as General Smith. Prince Harry as Mark Jones. Katherine Heigl as Missy. Amy Adams as Rayna Ivanov. No one came to mind for the others.
 
What is your writing process? For instance, do you do an outline first? Do you write the chapters in sequence?
I always write the chapters in sequence. I make a general outline as to what chapters should include but as I write, it takes on a life of its own and a lot of the outline goes out the window.

Describe the characters in your latest book.
My latest book, ‘Unintentional Moments in Time’, is a collection of short stories.  Many of the stories include real events with real people. A couple of these include characters based on real fear. Imaginable fear. Forgotten love. Growing up and facing the past. Some comedy stories, but all stories have a big twist to the ending that you don’t see coming.

Do the characters all come to you at the same time or do some of them come to you as you write?

I have most in mind when I outline what I want in the book. However, sometimes the character changes depending on seeing them in a larger role than what I originally imagined.

Can you share a scene?

This is an excerpt from the story, ‘The Adventures of Stevo and Jorge’.

Several of the team players met at the local pizza parlor to talk about practice and the upcoming game with their most feared rival team. They had never won a game against this school in the history of having a soccer team. “Maybe that will change now that we’re getting an expert soccer player,” said Dave. 

“We don’t know yet just how much of an expert he is,” said Nick.

“We can hope,” said Wendy.

“Do you suppose he is from a foreign country?” Anita was picking the mushrooms off her pizza. “Your dad did say he was from a distance away.”

“Who knows,” said Mike. “I just hope he doesn’t have an attitude like he is better than the rest of us.”

“Yeah,” said Dave. “Nick is bad enough without another big head in the mix.”

“Cut it out,” said Stevo. “He will probably be nervous meeting and playing with all of us. If he is from such a good team, he is probably worried that we won’t meet his standards.”

“Gosh, that’s right,” said Wendy. “We never thought of that. He might take one look at us and quit the team.”

“If he takes one look at Dave,” said Taylor, “he will quit the team for sure.” He got up quickly before his teammates threw ice water at him and headed into the bathroom, where he overheard half a conversation from some other classmates.

          “The new janitor starts next week,” said a freshman boy that Taylor didn’t know, so he ignored this part of the conversation. “I heard he is from Mexico.”

“Hey!” Taylor’s ears perked up at this news. “Do you know his name or what he looks like?”

“Probably Jorge or Juan or something like that,” said another Freshman boy. “If he’s from Mexico, he’ll have darker skin, dark hair, and dark eyes, right?”

“Oh, right,” said Taylor, leaving the bathroom. “Wonder why one of the soccer captains is so interested in the new janitor?” said one Freshman boy to the other.

“Beat’s me,” shrugged the other freshman boy.

“You’ll never guess what I heard in the bathroom,” said Taylor excitedly.

“What? Tell us quick,” said Mike. “Here comes your mother.”

“Guys!” Taylor tried to get them to hear him. “The new guy on the team is from Mexico.” He was quickly pulled out the door by his mother. “Wow!” Anita and Wendy said simultaneously. “I bet he’s cute.” Wendy leaned into Anita. “All that thick, dark hair.”

Dave noticed the freshman boys leaving the bathroom, heading to the door of the pizza parlor. “Hey! You! The new guy from Mexico,” said Dave loudly. “Do you know his name?”

“Jorge. We think it’s Jorge.”

By the next morning, Steveo and Mike were in the office signing up for junior pictures. “Have you boys heard about the new soccer player?” Lydia, the office aide, got the forms to take to their parents. “A little,” said Mike.

“What do you know?”

“Well,” she looked both ways. “I probably shouldn’t say anything, but I think you two can be trusted not to spread rumors. His name is Jorge, and he is from Mexico…” she continued to tell them all she had heard.

“Here comes Jane and Ryan. We should give them a heads-up before they get blindsided at practice today. I doubt they have heard anything about the new player.”

Before the boys could say anything, Jane and Ryan began to regale them with information about the new player.

“He has never missed a goal. He has scored more than twenty points in every game he has ever played and dates the daughter of the President of Mexico. They are getting married as soon as he graduates. His parents have already arranged it. The wedding will be at their mansion in Mexico City.” They ran down the hall to catch others who had not heard the news.

“And he sings back-up with Enrico Iglesias.”

“He has one brother and five sisters, but they are not coming to America.”

“He speaks five languages.”

“His father has a magic act in Vegas, and his brother is a professional Mime.” 

“He has already been accepted into Harvard Law School but turned it down to play professional soccer with Argentina.”

“He is a professional dancer, and his parents own a string of dance studios worldwide.”

“He doesn’t eat. He only drinks protein shakes made from wheatgrass, tapioca, and goat.”

“He has a God's body and a Devil's personality. He is every girl's dream and every boy's wannabe.”

“His mother was Miss Mexico and was named the most beautiful actress four times by People Magazine.”

“He has to shave three times a day.”

**It’s a story about how rumors get started and is based on a true situation from my son’s soccer team.


What’s the next project you’ll be working on?

I am currently writing my first ‘standalone’ novella. It is called ‘Summer Vacation’ and is told initially from the boy’s point of view. Then I am retelling it from the girl’s point of view. The final section is what happens in the future to them both. It’s a sweet’ coming of age’ type story.

Here’s a link to Marianne’s website.
https://www.mariannewieland.com/

Music

Glenn Frey has always been one of my favorites.  The fact that he’s originally from Detroit probably has something to do with it.  As one of the founding members and frontman for The Eagles. Frey co-wrote many of the band’s hits and was often the lead singer, playing guitar and piano.

After The Eagles went on hiatus in 1980, Frey had many successful hits with his solo career. The Eagles won six Grammys, were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and recognized by the Kennedy Center Honors.

Here are my top five Glenn Frey Songs (including a couple with the Eagles)

The Heat is On.  https://youtu.be/uZD8HKVKneI?si=9C47RfmJiltrrvmp

Smuggler’s Blues: https://youtu.be/8sXHQKJwOMA?si=KTbK0n5Sw9Gpb8If

You Belong to the City: https://youtu.be/HeH4vCOKd8E?si=OjcdrP1dTA21SE8L

Heartache Tonight:  https://youtu.be/JAKx_ndmBqo?si=CUvEc-e0Za7y762j

Hole in the World:   https://youtu.be/9-NWi0LPo1w?si=0k779U9YNPhFeRpi
 

“Does everyone know what time it is?” 
 
Yes, it’s time for the news!  Check out my latest bits on writing, upcoming events, works in progress, along with an author spotlight segment and music.  Gotta have music.
 
 
Writing
          One of the most challenging components for a writer is introducing the characters. Some readers want to know as much as possible about the players in the story, which can be accomplished by offering details about their size, shape, hair and eye color, age and demeanor.  Other readers are comfortable with a general description.  Their imagination can fill in the blanks.  They can even include what the characters will sound like.
​
          The greatest example of introducing a character I’ve ever experienced wasn’t in a book but in the movie “The Pirates of the Caribbean.”  I’ve shared this clip with friends at different writing groups and it’s always been well received. 

https://youtu.be/rQRsVM_uGMc?si=eCh96tg7bfgvg90V
         
        I never liked books where a writer gives the reader all the details at one time, as if they were putting together a missing person’s report for the police. Or perhaps it’s like the profile for an online dating service. It’s my preference to share bits and pieces of each character as the story progresses. Readers will gradually learn more about them. To me it’s a more natural way of sharing that information.

          For example, with the Jefferson Chene character, as the first book unfolds, you learn he was abandoned at birth and his name is actually the intersection near downtown Detroit where he was found.  I’ve had great feedback from readers who love to discover these parts of Chene’s background.  It also helps them better understand his personality.

          Writers need to determine what method works best for them. When you’ve got a process that can deliver enough information so the reader can visualize what they look like, the rest of the story just flows better.

​Events
 
The festival season is in full swing.  Over the next few weeks, I’ll be at several locations in Southwest Michigan.  
Craft Show in Marshall,  May 18 & 19, 10 to 4.   Celery Flats in Portage, May 24  3:30 to 7.
Art, Beer & Wine in Jackson,  June 8,  2-7            Strawberry Festival in Coldwater  9 to 3.

 

     Information for other upcoming sites is posted on the events tab on the website. So, if you’re looking for an autographed copy of any of the books, you’ll know where to find me.

      If I’m not going to be anywhere close by, you can always email me a request to get a book sent via regular mail.

Work in Progress.
 
       It’s almost here!  After countless updates and revisions, two official rounds of edits and so much more, “Rules of Desperation” is about ready to be released!
       Here’s the blurb from the back cover:
      How far would you go to achieve the goal of your dreams?

     All Nicholas Burr wants to do is traditionally publish a mystery novel. Sure, he’s had some success as a ghost writer for a young adult series, but that’s not the same.

     It’s not even close.

   Camille, his long-suffering wife, has had enough. She’s tired of being the bread winner. Tired of listening to him prattle on about his next project. Tired of…him.

    Nicholas Burr is desperate. Would he do something rash? Something unexpected?

    Something so outrageous it would get everyone’s attention?

   Yet if there’s one thing he knows, it’s that he must follow the rules.


    Meanwhile I’ve been able to do more writing on the Agonasti crime novel. Some new scenes have started to come together. As the saying goes, small steps can lead to big changes.  That’s certainly true of writing.
 
Author Spotlight. 
      I have yet to meet Amy Klco in person. We’ve been together on several episodes of a Pages and Promotion podcast.  Amy has a razor-sharp wit and a quick sense of humor.  It’s time we learned more about Amy and her work. ​

  Tell something about yourself and how you became an author.
 
    When I was in 4th grade, each student had an assignment to make a book, complete with illustrations and a story. Those books were shared with 4th graders across the district. Each class voted on which stories they liked best. My story won 2nd place! And that is the moment I knew I was meant to be a writer. And I have been working towards that goal ever since.

Do you ever imagine one of your novels being made into a movie or television series? 
 
    Yes, please! I would love to see my fantasy series made into a movie (or a mini-series.) I think it would be so amazing to see an idea that once existed only in my head come to life on the silver screen.

Any favorite actors you’d cast in the lead roles?

    I was about to say no, I couldn’t think of anyone. And then it dawned on me. I would love to have Morgan Freeman play the Old Willow Man from my fantasy series.

What is your writing process?

This is my writing process:
·       Think of an idea.
·       Let it germinate in the back of my mind until I realize that it will not let me go until I write it down.
·       Get to know my main character and the general situation they are in.
·       Sit down to start writing and see how things unfold.
·       Keep writing until I get stuck (or life gets in the way.)
·       Get unstuck using one of the following techniques:
o   go for a walk,
o   take a nap (I get some of my best ideas in that ½ sleep state),
o   or my new favorite is to brainstorm with one of my writing friends.
·       Write more.
·       Get stuck and unstuck over and over again.
·       Be surprised by the amazing, imaginative ideas that come along out of seemingly nowhere.
·       Push through to the end.
·       Finish it.
·       Share with my trusted beta readers.

Do the characters all come to you at the same time or do some of them come to you as you write?
​
     Generally, my main character is the first thing that comes to me, after the idea of the book. They dictate everything else. The minor characters are often based on what the main character needs (help, advice, etc.) or what will propel the story forward.

     However, I have at times had a character come seemingly out of the blue. In one book I was working on, I knew I needed another character, but I wasn’t sure who they would be. Then, as I was brushing my teeth one morning, I “heard” a voice saying, “Hello, I am Vivian Valencia. Like the oranges. Nice to meet you.” I rushed to my computer to get down the conversation. Vivian turned out to be exactly who I needed to really make the book work. I’m glad she took the time to introduce herself to me.

What is your latest book about?

     It's called We Mask. Jessie/Jessica is a trans kid living in Florida to unsupportive parents. When their father says that “If my child ever told me they were gay, I would kick them out of the house,” Jess decides to run away from home.

Can you share an excerpt too?

Chapter 1 
​
“Hey, Jessie,” my dad called to me as I was heading upstairs to my bedroom. “Where ya’ going? The Gators are playing. Don’t you want to come watch the game with your old man?” 

“Of course I do,” I told him, doing my best to sound sincere. In reality, one of the last things I wanted to do was watch a football game with my dad. But the very last thing I wanted to do was get in a fight with him. So I smiled and sat down, acting like there was nothing I enjoyed more.

We watched for a while in silence, but I knew that wouldn’t last. The blissful silence never did. Before long, a commercial came on and the questions started once again.

“How come you never tried out for football?” he asked me, as if it had just occurred to him, as if he’d never asked me before.

“We’ve been through this, Dad,” I replied, as carefully as I could. “I’m no good at sports.”
​
“Nonsense,” he responded. “You’re my boy. Of course you’re good at sports. You just have to apply yourself a little. Get out there and move, use your body, instead of sitting in your room playing video games all day.”

“I like video games,” I mumbled, even though I knew I should just stay quiet. “I’m good at video games.”

“Anyone can be good at video games,” he replied. “That doesn’t take any talent. Now these guys,” he added, motioning towards the television where the game had resumed, “what they do takes real talent.”

“Talent I don’t have,” I reminded him. 

“Talent you could have if you just applied yourself,” my dad snapped back. “Did you know that I was recruited to play for the Gators when I was your age?” 

“Yes,” I responded, trying my best to keep the frustration out of my voice. I couldn’t even count the number of times my dad had told me about his glorious past as the star quarterback for his high school football team. 

“I would have done it, too,” he continued, oblivious to the fact that he had told me this story so many times before. “If I hadn’t gone and knocked up your mom. That was before I found God and realized the error of my ways. Luckily her dad sat me down and helped me to understand Jesus’s plan for me. I took responsibility for my actions, married your mom, and got a job to support her. And you.”

“Yes, Dad,” I replied, since he was clearly expecting some kind of response. 

“I gave up everything for you,” he added, as if I needed it spelled out one more time. “You owe me your life.”

“I know,” I said, again doing my best to sound grateful. “If it weren’t for you, Mom would have gotten an abortion and I wouldn’t even be here today.” 

“She wanted to. But I knew better. We had already sinned when we conceived you. But murder? Nope, I was not going to have that on my conscience. People who kill babies go automatically to Hell,” he reminded me. “They’re almost as bad as faggots!” 

I tried hard not to wince at the word. I should be immune to it by now, as often as I heard it. But the hate I could hear in his voice when he said it always cut right through me. What would he do, I wondered, if he ever found out that his precious boy, his pride and joy, his life, was one of them? 

“You be careful, you hear,” my dad said next. “Sex outside of marriage is a sin, but women can be tricky. If you ever do anything, just make sure you use protection, you hear? You don’t want to end up like me,” he said, and then caught himself. “I mean, I have a great life. Everything turned out just fine, but… Just be careful you don’t get anyone pregnant. Keep your options open.”

“I will, Dad,” I told him. And that was one promise I knew I could keep. I was pretty sure I would never get a woman pregnant.

“And you should really go out for football this year,” he added, as if it were an afterthought. “It’s not too late. If you work hard your junior year, by your senior year, the talent scouts are bound to notice you.”

“I’ll think about it,” I replied.

“What’s there to think about? It’s a great plan! I’m glad you agree with me.”

“Sure, Dad,” I said, since there was clearly nothing I could say to change his mind. “Can I go upstairs now?”

“Don’t you want to finish watching the game?” he asked, as if either of us had been actually watching the game.

“I’ve got homework to do,” I replied, getting up before he could tell me no. “I can’t get a football scholarship if I don’t keep my grades up.” I had no chance of getting a football scholarship either way, but he didn’t seem able to grasp that concept.

“Smart,” he said. “Hit those books. But you will try out for the team this year, right?”

“Yes, Dad,” I replied before slipping off upstairs. “Whatever you say.”
​

 ​What’s the next project you’ll be working on?
       I have an idea for a science-fiction story dealing with AI. That’s all I’m going to tell for now. 😉
 
You can learn more about Amy and her work on the website.
https://www.enchantmentpress.com

Music

     During a recent conversation, the topic of lists came up.  I’ll often make a quick list of tasks I need to complete or check on. That triggered a memory from the John Sandford novel “Broken Prey”.  A subplot of the story is protagonist Lucas Davenport receives an I-pod and has to pick his top 100 songs to download.  Throughout the story, characters are making comments and suggestions about what tunes to include.

     I’m not about to list my top 100.  That’s impossible.  But I do have a few songs that always get my attention. These are especially good for traveling and I’ll be on the road a lot over the next few months. 
​
      Here’s my top five favorites.

Bob Seger: Get Out of Denver:  https://youtu.be/hcEAfZX6SJw?si=MbV9_TibODD8r-rT

Chuck Berry: Reelin’ and Rockin’:  https://youtu.be/ca2jxk6o3Rw?si=ojbTquoj84X09UJ6

Traffic: Low Spark of High Heeled Boys:
https://youtu.be/vDGorIWYz-A?si=FkgGbkZ7Q155472H

Stevie Ray Vaughan: Riviera Paradise:  https://youtu.be/3c_8VUL5jks?si=gTnQyY6ob-U-GmAD
​
Rolling Stones: Sympathy for the Devil:
https://youtu.be/Jwtyn-L-2gQ?si=SN9LzBcp9BqovCFJ