Intimate Conversation with Daryl T. Sturgis

Daryl T. Sturgis was born into an artistic and professional family in Winston-Salem, North Carolina where he found himself surrounded by art and music at an early age. After finishing college he moved to New York City in 1992 to pursue his dreams of becoming an author. Daryl has performed in a sketch comedy group as well as written several plays.

Ella:  Daryl, tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
What drives my writing is the sheer pleasure of manipulating words to convey thoughts, plots, love, death, fear, ecstasy and drama. To bring the characters that speak to me to life. To have the reader involved in a relationship with these people that I myself are only discovering with every keystroke. From the very first time I wrote my very first story at eight years of age on my mother’s antique Royal typewriter, trying to make sense and somehow sculpt the nightmares that plagued my youth into something manageable, I have had a passion for telling stories. And in the end the words I write must lead you on a magnificent journey where you fully let yourself go and become immersed in their (these characters) story. Hopefully you will feel the love and passion and pain and joy I have put into every word I write.

Ella:  A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers:
My writing offers the following legacy to future readers: the knowledge that good writing is a transcending force. That just because I am African American and that my characters may also be does not preclude their stories from being universal. That there is a place for all our voices to be heard and recognized. That the non-traditional or experimental can not only be accepted but praised. To show above all else that hard work and self-determination will create a space where your life’s passion will grow to exponential heights.


Ella:  Where are you from? What is your favorite genre? How did you start your writing journey?
I was born in Winston-Salem, NC. I really don’t have a favorite genre but my writing tends to lean towards fantasy and some science fiction. It can be quirky at times. I loved disaster and monster movies as a child so my first story was based on the movie “The Planet of the Apes.” It was about these astronauts that crashed-landed in an alien world that closely resembled the children’s board game Candyland. I was six at the time so not very imaginative.

Ella:  Introduce us to your new book Solstice.
Solstice is an angry old witch raging and ready to cast a spell on the insolent children throwing rocks at her house, robbing her of the rest she needs to tend to her very rude hangover. She is a former Queen of All Witches after all, who has fallen into decrepitude. A lonely old diva living a life of inert seclusion in a crumbling Harlem brownstone with Constance, her grouchy housekeeper who is both her companion and her foil. Flopping down into their bedraggled midst comes the curious and determined Newel a precocious ten year-old-boy, who shows up on her doorstep one day demanding she answer his most pressing question, “Is you a witch?”

Beguiled by the thought of taking on an apprentice, Solstice sweeps Newel into the maelstrom of her historic and nefarious rise to witchdom’s highest title. Beginning with her birth on the hottest day of 1908, to her usurping power in the waning years of the Harlem Renaissance. Fueled by vodka martinis and champagne Solstice regales Newel with the raucous and sometimes zany exploits of her violent ambition. The frog revolution she leads, conspiring with demons, poisonings, zombies, spells and one very bloody coup.

Though fantastical in nature, Solstice challenges you to reexamine commonly-held beliefs about ambition, gender, race, sexuality and class in America. At its heart, however, Solstice is the story of absolution, humanity and redemption.

Ella:  Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them?
Solstice the title character and Newel the ten-year-old boy who comes into her life. Solstice, though pretentious, is a born showman. Everything she does is over the top. She’s like some grand old dame of a Golden Age Hollywood. She’s the old lady your mother warned you about. Solstice led this incredibly rich and notorious life. It didn’t matter to her that it was the pre-depression south where being a black woman was almost a crime. She rose to the upper echelon of society one scandal at a time. Newel is the wide-eyed innocent that has lost his way in the world and in spite of his mother’s and her boyfriend’s physical abuse, stills sees everything with the wonderment that only a child could posses. Where everything new is grand and big and exciting. He learns from Solstice and absorbs everything the elder has to say. Their love for each other transcends his poverty and abuse and her evil and infamy.

Ella:  How does this book shape or add value to the reader's life?
I think it will enable the reader to go out and pursue their own dreams. If Solstice who was born into a world where women were not even allowed to vote and blacks where only two generations away from slavery to grow up and become the ruler of most of the world then surely they can do anything within their reach..

Ella:  Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
The joy of taking this special journey with interesting characters. To have read a great story that they would want to read time and time again.

Ella:  Who would this book really "speak to" and why?
I think it would speak to anyone with an active imagination. Someone who wants to laugh and be provoked and to taste and be a part of African American history with a magical twist of course.

Ella:  What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
Completely controlling every aspect of the publication of my book. From the concept to the writing thru the editing process. Finding an artist for the illustrations. To obsessing over the fonts and their point size and all the details large and small of marketing it.

Ella:  What advice would you give a new writer?
Don’t get it right. Get it written. Just let the words flow. Once its on paper then you can perfect it. Find a group of people who will be honest—brutally honest—about the writing of the book. Lastly, if you can’t actually find an editor (thankfully my best friend is one) then get a professional proofreader to look over your work. The benefit will out way the cost. I would rather some one say they hated my book because they disliked the characters or the plot or the style than they hated it because it had misspelled words and poor grammar.

Ella:  Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
Determination. Common sense. Fearlessness.

Ella:  What book already published is similar to your book in its writing style?
Not sure what book but I’ve been told that James Wolcott of Vanity Fair and I have a similar writing style. My books are very imagistic so maybe something by Anne Rice. And I love to contort words and grammatical structures so I would also say Stephen L. Carter.

Ella:  What can we expect from you in the future?
Later this year I am publishing an erotic science fiction anthology and of course the sequel to Solstice entitled The Goddess of Light will be out early 2010.

Ella:  Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
The book release event for Solstice is happening in June 2009.

Daryl Sturgis Official Website
http://darylsturgis.com/

Daryl Sturgis Blog
http://darylsturgis.blogspot.com/

Twitter with Daryl
http://twitter.com/darylsturgis

Links to booksellers for Solstice
Amazon.com
BookSurge 

 

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Intimate Conversation with Venesha

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Intimate Conversation with S. J. Foster

S. J. Foster, a Philadelphia native who has also lived in Texas, Ohio and currently Georgia, is a wife, mother, a reality show addict, and an extremely avid reader and passionate writer. This is her second novel. Writing is my passion and I already have written in my mind my next 5 novels – in sequence.

Ella:  Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
I began writing because I’ve always had a very vivid imagination, possibly from being an only child the first 9 years of my life. The characters I write about are people I know in my mind, typically people I’ve mentally had friendships or relationships with! I spend a decent percent of each day inside my head so late at night, when I do most of my writing; I put those daydreams on paper.

Ella:  Please finish this sentence: My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
FAPulousness! This is a term I coined which truly defines my writing. It stands for Fashion, Action & Passion! All of my works – published and soon to be – fall under this style as it represents the types of works I like to read and write about. Champagne & Butterflies is meant to provide light hearted chick-lit drama and fun reading. My previous novel as well as my follow up to Champagne & Butterflies are darker and much more serious but they still follow the FAPulous variety. I’ve also described my works not as books – but as literary experiences.

Ella:  Where are you from? What is your favorite genre? How did you start your writing journey?
I’m from Philadelphia although I currently reside in the Atlanta area. My favorite genre is any fiction that includes spice and juicy drama. I started writing as a hobby. I write lots of poetry and short stories that I once only shared with family and friends. After a while, their friends and their friends’ friends were requesting copies of my work, encouraging me to finally take a stab at publishing. I haven’t looked back since!

Ella:  Share with us the synopsis of the book being discussed today, Champagne & Butterflies.
Collegiates Kyla and Kimari Fontaine are the affluent stars of Champagne & Butterflies, a “coming of age” story that will dazzle the young female reader as surely as a new pair of strappy stilettos. Champagne & Butterflies takes a lighthearted, chick lit glance at young adulthood. Since both heroines are young, gorgeous and wealthy African-Americans, this drama mixes hip style and urban glamour with enough fashion, action, and passion to enthrall any reader smitten with the jet set ways of today’s label wearing culture.

Raised by father Benjamin, the well-respected CEO of the nation’s largest brokerage firm, and mother Farrah, a former model and popular singer, Kyla and Kimari certainly live a life of privilege. Sometimes dubbed by classmates as the “Black Hilton sisters,” they blaze a popular path having graduated from a prep school in the tony suburbs of Philadelphia to the campus of Penn State, especially when behind the wheel of a Range Rover and convertible Lexus.

Just one year apart in age, sharp-tongued Kimari, who was previously ready to shake her small town ‘It Girl’ status and conquer the globe, finds herself trying to hold onto a relationship with a semi-famous, soon-to-be pro football player while working to get her own star to rise.

Meanwhile Kyla, the calm, collected and considered the more reserved of the two, finds herself in a great relationship with Vince, a safe and loving resident doctor. Ever the overachiever, Kyla buries herself in work to try to shake her lingering feelings for an enticing old flame.

Seen through the eyes of designer clad glasses, both privileged sisters are about to discover who they truly are while experiencing growing pains like never before.

Ella:  Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them?
Sisters Kyla and Kimari Fontaine are the main two characters of this novel. They are young, beautiful and privileged but of course, very human. Kyla, the responsible, well-put-together overachiever is likeable in her reserved innocence. She doesn’t like cheating, lying or anything dishonest. Of course, this gets tested before long but her purity is lightly comical as well as admirable.

Kimari, the sharp-tongued firecracker of the two, is bold and sassy. She has an undying desire to reach a certain level of fame beyond her immediate life; and this sometimes clouds her vision. Her overtly honest and audacious comments will make readers laugh as well as make their jaws drop.

Ella:  How does this book shape or add value to the reader's life?
It’s pure and fun entertainment. I totally believe in escapism and this novel is a fun getaway from everyday life. There are the labels for my fashionista’s, there’s heat with the male counterparts for my steam lovers and finally there’s a good old fashioned moral to the story.

Ella:  What advice would you give a new writer?
Be true to your craft. Don’t try to write what you think folks want to read; write what you love and what you would want to read. That way there’s more genuine quality and readers will draw to that.

Ella:  What can we expect from you in the future?
Novels! Novels! Novels! I continue to write poetry and short stories, which I’ll be posting on my website and blogs. I also write songs so I’m actively seeking new artists to give me the honor of writing for them. And finally, my 3rd, yet to be titled novel is practically writing itself which thrills me! Readers can stay updated with me at www.SJFoster.com

Champagne & Butterflies By S. J. Foster
Price: $14.95, iUniverse;   Pages: 212
ISBN: 978-1-4401-3955-0 (softcover)
ISBN: 978-1-4401-3959-8 (hardcover)

MissInkInPink@hotmail.com   and   www.SJFoster.com

Buy the book at Amazon
To see what Champagne & Butterflies is about, visit  www.SJFoster.com   today!

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Intimate Conversation with Patricia Amis

Ella: Welcome to Black Pearls! Tell us a little about yourself.
Hi. My name is Patricia Amis. I am the author of Snatched From The Fire (Republished By Naphtali Books.)  I am a resident of Staten Island, New York. I am a graduate of Wagner College, in Staten Island, New York. I have studied at the New York University Graduate School of Social Work. I am the Host and Founder of Elderview Talkshow. I serve as a strong advocate for the elderly population. I am the founder of Enhancement Through Counseling Christian Ministry. 

Ella: What is your favorite genre? How did you start your writing journey? 
My favorite genre is non-fiction. I started my writing journey one day, while sitting on the bed. After I had been delivered from my trials, I discovered that there are others who are going through similar trials who need to hear my story about hope. 

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. What drives you? 
I love to write because it allows me to express my deepest thoughts, emotions, and memories. What drives me to write is the need for others to benefit from the stories that I need to share. 

Ella: A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers... 
My writing offers the following legacy to future readers who are inclined to be inspired by those who have triumphed over lifes' pitfalls.


Ella: Introduce us to your book, Snatched From The Fire.
As a child, I grew up in a single-parent home. When I finally met my father, he over-compensated my sister and I by giving us abundant material goods, and money. He also indirectly exposed me to the spirit of witchcraft. 

My step-grandmother, who was a minister in the church practiced witchcraft, on the DL. She used to visit David Berkowitz, the Son Of Sam Serial Killer of the 1970s every week in prison. She believed that he was a prophet. She "helped him to convert to Christianity". 

All of these doors to the spirit of witchcraft were opened to me, as a child. As a young person, I innocently walked through those doors. The spirit of witchcraft began to influence all of my decisions, and eventually I began to practice the religion. I became confused, battled a violent domestic violence situation, and lost everything that I had earned. Once I decided to turn to Jesus Christ, I became delivered from that violent world of witchcraft. 

Ella: Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them? 
Sabrina Matheson, and Mr. Barnes.. What I like most about Sabrina Matheson is that she never let go of her quest for truth, and recognized it when the moment for change manifested. What I like most about Mr. Barnes is that he always showed love, the best way that he knew how to, in spite of the separate paths that he and his daughter took in life.

Ella: How does this book shape or add value to the readers' life? 
This book opens the window of the unforseen world, which surrounds us on a daily basis. It exposes the reader to the spiritual realm that influences our lives.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from this book, Snatched From The Fire? 
The power of Gods' Love, and the rewards that may manifest as a result of obedience to The Lord. 

Ella: Who would this book really "speak to" and why? 
This book would speak to young women who may have a low self-esteem, because it empowers them to find the love of God, which would help them to love themselves. 

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
I believe that I have successfully encouraged most of the young females to make the right decisions about relationships, through my writing. 

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
Take your time. Writing will not happen overnight. Stay focused, and remember that writing is a process, but you must keep writing.

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
perseverence, committment, and a positive attitude. 

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
I will write fiction books, and Christian inspiration books in the future. 

Website Links for the book are:
www.naphtalibooks.com 
www.barnesandnobles.com

Contact Patricia Amis at:  ppamis@yahoo.com  

 

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Intimate Conversation with Ana Y. Rodriguez

Her legal name is Ana Y. Rodriguez but she is better known as LatinTemptress. She began posting her short stories and blogs on Yahoo 360 in 2004 and MySpace in 2005. She quickly gained a loyal audience with her bold opinions, in-your-face attitude and tongue-in-cheek, politically incorrect humor. Encouraged by her friends, she started a short story online. An overnight sensation, what was supposed to be a two-part blog became the seed to her upcoming novel “LatinTemptress’ The Encounter”.

Ana coined the terms Wagfest and WaggieKatz and now operates her own online clothing store. A former South Bronx resident, she moved to NJ in 1993 after serving her country as an Army Reservist. She lives life by her own rules and on her own terms, this evidently and prominently displayed in the tone and content of her many blogs. Her favorite quote sums her best: "Some women aren't meant to be tamed. Maybe they need to run free until they find someone just as wild, to run with" ~Carrie Bradshaw, SATC.

Ella:  Where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
I am originally from NYC but have resided in NJ for the past 15 years. I began my writing journey as a child with short stories and poetry but it wasn't until I was in my mid-twenties that I published my first poem. It would be another ten years before my first book was published.

Ella:  Ana, introduce us to your new book, LatinTemptress' The Encounter.
Bella’s life is forever changed when her former lover David Alexander reappears in her life and claims what was once his on the same day she finally meets her long-distance, online suitor, Jonathan Greene. Bella awakes from a coma with no memory of her past to discover she is Mrs. Alexander but dreams in the shape of ghostly memories begin to resurface with time. Is it all real or a figment of her imagination?

Bella’s questions are answered when Jonathan searches and finally finds his beloved. Bella must now choose between her husband and her lover, between power and love, between a lie and the truth. Trapped in a web of betrayal and deception, Bella rises from the ashes and becomes head of one of the largest underworld empires. Will love triumph over power or will Bella lose her soul?

Everything has a price, including love. LatinTemptress' The Encounter, a journey that will capture your imagination and never let it go.

Ella:   Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them?
My two main characters are Bella and Jonathan. I love Bella because she is fierce! She is strong, confident and can be cold as ice but she is also soft, vulnerable and loving when she needs to be. Jonathan is her perfect man, her hero and saving grace.
 
Ella:  What makes your book stand out and would entice a reader pick it up?
My book has a story that will keep you enticed and those pages turning. Bella has become every woman's she-ro and the storyline will draw you into her life and that of the other characters. The cover has also been beautifully done and does make a person wonder what it is that the book contains inside.

Ella:  Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
Perseverance, determination and drive. In this industry, there are many things that can discourage and detour your dream but you must wade past the sharks and keep focused on your goal.

Ella:  Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
I am excited to be a part of Book Expo America this year! And due to high demand, I will be releasing Part 2 of The Encounter late this year as well as The Butterfly Within. My website LatinTemptress.com will also be launched this year.

The book can be ordered safely via Paypal at www.myspace.com/latintemptress  and soon via LatinTemptress.com. I can be contacted at: latintemptress05@yahoo.com  and for reviews and ratings of the book, you can visit Goodreads.com/latintemptress.

Order my book: "LatinTemptress' The Encounter" at www.myspace.com/latintemptress 

Wholesalers and Distributors, please call: Ana Y. Rodriguez (201) 306-6496


Book Reviews
"Wonderfully written, beautifully crafted, sensually perfect, as the Latin Temptress lives up to her name and legend." - Tony Rose, Publisher/CEO, Amber Communications Group, Inc. (Amber Books and Colossus Books) Executive Director, The African American Pavilion at Book Expo America

“Latin Temptress did a phenomenal job breaking into the literary industry, with this intriguing, and very insightful novel.”- UrbanFireBooks/Urban Fire Publishing

"The Encounter is an empowering, entertaining powerhouse of a novel about self-discovery, friendship and love. It's authentic, well written, a total page turner, you will not be able to put it down... A stunning debut! A writer to watch!"- Sexy, author of Chained & Twofold

"The Encounter is a well put novel...I look forward to reading more from this talented new comer."
- SiStar Tea, ARC Book Club Inc.

Follow Ana:
Twitter.com/latintemptress  
myspace.com/latintemptress
facebook.com/AnaYRodriguez

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Meet author Alvin V. Grimes

My name is Alvin V. Grimes. I was born in 19 bla-bla-bla in Detroit, Mich. I'm a former hard bassist/lead vocalist and I've been writing one thing or the other since I was ten years old. My favorite genres include: sci-fi, sword & sorcery, fantasy and horror. I'm married with children and I currently reside in Los Angeles, California.

Why Do I Write?
I believe that I write because God has gifted/blessed me with a talent that will not allow me to rest if I don't wield it within a certain length of time. I have to write, I'm miserable and out of synch with the universe if I'm not writing or researching in preparation to write. I write because I'm fascinated with danger and I'm a firm believer that writing and reading are two of the most dangerous activities that a person can engage in. Why? Because writing and reading can influence a person to change the way that they view themselves and the world. What can be more dangerous than that?

My Writing Legacy:
My writing offers the following legacy to readers...I want people, especially African Americans to become conscious of their personal heroic journey. I want them to realize that we come from a race of kings and warriors and that we have the blood of giant killers flowing in our veins.

Intro to Black Pearl:
Black Pearl is the story of a warrior in the pursuit of justice and freedom, who learns that in order to defeat the evil in his enemy that he must first conquer the evil within himself.

What Inspired me to write Black Pearl:
I saw Francis Ford Coppolla's "Cotton Club" and fell in love with the character of Bumpy Johnson, portrayed by Lawrence Fishburn. I find this period of our history to be rich and full of promise. I wanted to create a larger than life hero who could go toe to toe with Conan, Tarzan, Rambo or Bond.

Inspirations:
I was inspired by authors such as: Robert E. Howard, Tolkien, Fritz Leiber, Frank Herbert, H.P. Lovecraft, Steven King and later on by brothers like Steven Barnes and Walter Moseley. What they all have in common is the ability to create fascinating characters who dare to become heroes and diabolical villains who remind you of why we're afraid of the dark. 

For more information please visit  my website www.blackpearlthebook.com  

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Intimate Conversation with Larita C.

Hello. My name is LaRita C. I am a 29 year old African-American woman. I was born and raised in Bedford-Stuyvesant Brooklyn, New York. I am the daughter of a single mom with two other siblings. Life wasn’t easy but my mom raised me well and because of that, I am the strong determined young woman you see here today. I’m very passionate about life and I basically consider myself a “Go Getta.” That means I go after what I want in life and I get it. I make it happen because I believe in me. 

What is my passion for writing? 
I started writing at a young age, about around ten or a little older but it seems like forever. I am a huge fan of horror so my writing basically started out with me writing short horror stories. From that point on, I started writing song lyrics because I loved music so much and enjoyed singing as well. My song lyrics turned into poetry and I’ve been writing ever since then. I kept all type of journals and diaries, which of course my mother read every time she got the chance to. We sit back and laugh about those times now but it actually helped my writing to progress and my passion for writing became deeper and more intense. 

I write because writing has always been an outlet for me to express my thoughts and feelings. The best way I coped with things was through writing and to at least try to gain some type of clarity on situations in life. There are many forces that drive me to write, people, events, occurrences, love, time, the world, it’s everything overall that inspire my words. I want my book to have a positive yet informative impact on people when they read it. I want people to say, "Yes, I can relate to this or I've been through this before." I want people to not only relate to it but to also feel what my writing is all about. Overall, my goal is to touch people in many ways. 


Introduction to the book Love Without a Limit 
After many years of writing, I decided to take it to the next level and finally publish a book. I felt that it was time for me to step my game up and prove to myself that if there’s a goal in life to be pursued, then I can make it happen .That is what I did and I am a new published author of a book of poetry titled, “Love Without a Limit.” Love without a Limit basically takes you on a rollercoaster ride of love’s up’s and down’s. I can guarantee you that there is at least one or a few poems that everyone can relate to. The title basically speaks for itself: Love is without a limit, weather you’re in love, out of love, weather love has consumed you or left you feeling numb, love truly is without limits. This book is a true representation of what poetry really is. Poetry don't have to have big or fancy words or be put into words where even the reader can't understand. Poetry can be two lines, three lines or even just a few words. Poetry has to come from the heart and each piece I write comes straight from my heart, weather it's personal or creative. I am proud of my first work and I encourage everyone to purchase their copy today if they haven’t already done so. 

My writing offers what legacy? 
My writing offers this following legacy to future readers: Don’t stand back and watch your dreams slip away. Be a Go Getta and go for what you want. 

LaRita C. 
Msholden1979@yahoo.com  
iterallygifted@myspace.com 

Order “Love Without a Limit” today on: 
www.amazon.com  
www.barnesandnoble.com   
www.booksamillion.com   

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Intimate Conversation with Lusipher

Lusipher lives and works in St. Louis, Mo. He makes a living as a cab driver for St. Louis County Cab Company, and he has been ‘cabbing it’ for almost twenty years. BDSM: Zack’s Odyssey is Lusipher’s second novel. He is attracted to powerful imagery and wanted to write a novel with a style and force that rivaled his ambitions. 

Ella: Hi, Lusipher. Why do you write?
Writing is a creative outlet for me to explore both myself and the world. There are universals that we all share. We all need food, water, oxygen, and so on. On the other hand, we all have an alien code that gives us unique perspectives on beauty, love, fear, sexuality, and so on; writing enables me to share with readers my own perspectives on beauty, love, fear, God, the universe, and so on. The beauty of writing is in taking something plain--something simple-- and magnifying that idea into a larger context. The beauty of writing is in creating something that assumes a life of its own, and which changes from one reader to the next. 

I want my book--Bondage and Discipline, Sadism and Masochism—to entertain those who read it. Whether this book--or any books that I write in the future--contains a message or moral is secondary. When I go to see a movie, I go to be entertained. 


Ella: What is your book,BDSM: Zack’s Odyssey,  about?
Bondage and Discipline, Sadism and Masochism (BDSM): Zack’s Odyssey looks at one man as a shattered reflection of alcoholism. By way of metaphor, BDSM describes alcohol addiction as a dysfunctional and destructive sadomasochistic relationship. 

BDSM is a shocking two-volume thriller about a black man named Zack Simms who enslaves himself to a sad, beautiful, and powerful woman named Sadie Sunshine. Their relationship is symbiotic: he’s a sadist, she’s a masochist. He’s hooked on alcohol, she’s hooked on antidepressants. She drags him down, he lifts her up! They’re a perfect match! 

The more Zack abuses Sadie and alcohol, the more power they have over his life--his job, his marriage, and his health. Abuse, denial, guilt, and booze—these are Sadie’s weapons and she mixes them well—and strong—to keep Zack lubricated and on her stiff leash. Zack is a contradiction. By day, he’s a 44-year-old cab driver who is married to a supportive and hardworking woman named Ann; at night, he becomes a dog, a toy, and a glowing latex-fetish demon addicted to abnormal sex. Sadie liberates Zack’s primitive instincts; she makes him reckless; she makes him powerful; she makes him numb; she dissolves all of his pain—at a price. To save his life, his job, and his marriage, Zack must cut Sadie off for good. Can he?

Ella: Are your characters based on real people?
The characters of BDSM are exaggerated elements of both me and of people I’ve come in contact with over the years. I used to be an alcoholic like the story’s protagonist. Also, I’m a cab driver and I live in South St. Louis, Mo. When I drank, my favorite drink was called 1843, which I used as the apartment address of the story’s protagonist, Sadie Sunshine. 

Ella: What inspired you to write this story, BDSM: Zack’s Odyssey?
I used to drink a lot. When I quit drinking, I wanted to write about what it was like being an alcoholic. I wanted to describe my experiences with alcohol and I also wanted to describe the scourging effects alcohol had on our society. 

Ella: What issues in today's society have you addressed in the book?
BDSM: Zack’s Odyssey addresses the following issues; alcoholism, prescription drug abuse, unsafe sex, physical abuse, clinical depression, and marital infidelity. 

Ella: How difficult was it to complete the novel?
It was very difficult to write BDSM. I had to get a feel for writing in a way that complemented the dark and explicit theme of the story. I had to learn the language, or poetry, for describing the twisted scenarios in the story. There are science fiction elements throughout the story involving robots—their social and commercial applications. This was my first attempt at science fiction and I wanted to describe these scenes with details. I read a lot of books on not only alcoholism, but books on prescription drug abuse, robotics, the human anatomy, HIV and Aids, books on abnormal psychology, philosophy, books on construction machines, books on gastroenteritis, etc. Then, to empathize with some of the situations I described in the book, I did a little field research and some interviews with individuals who practice BDSM. These interviews enabled me to understand the S&M dynamic called power-exchange wherein a submissive partner relinquishes control of his or her life to a dominant partner. In S&M, power-exchange is about trust—if I am totally powerless and submit myself to your whims, can I trust you to care for me and to not hurt me? In my book, power-exchange takes the form of self-control, abuse, denial, and guilt as these relate to alcoholism. 

Ella:  What is your most valuable lesson about the publishing industry?
The most important thing to know about publishing right now is how easily accessible it is for anyone to do it. However, writing and publishing a book are different from promoting a book. Promoting a book is more difficult than writing a book. E-publishing and POD publishing have democratized publishing; they have also diluted publishing. With a few hundred dollars, anyone can set up a website, enroll with PAYPAL, set up some links, and open a virtual bookstore. This is something I’m learning first hand right now. I think the writers who work on their craft longer are the writers who will rise out of this generation of authors. I think today’s novels are written too fast and too commercially to have any value beyond a single reading session. The most valuable thing I’ve learned to do is read. Read books on the publishing industry. Read books on the topics you like. Read books from different genres to stretch the muscles of your imagination. I’m still feeling my way with self-publishing, so I can only offer my own artistic opinions. 

Ella: What writers inspire you and why?
I admire imaginative writers. Writing “what you know” can be a copout for lazy writers who don’t want to do any research beyond writing about the “hood.” Ray Bradbury’s never been to Mars but he wrote The Martian Chronicles. Phillip K. Dick wrote about androids and flying cars and electric goats and sheep. Dante never went to Hell and came back, yet he wrote The Divine Comedy. Homer wrote about the Trojan War and Achilles. As a writer, you can transport your feelings anywhere and against any backdrop. 

Ella: What did you hope to accomplish by writing this particular story?
I wrote this story as best as I could write it and I received the precise responses that I anticipated. Even if this book is regarded as a failure, I’d rather fail at attempting something fresh and original than to succeed at creating a carbon copy of a carbon copy of a carbon copy etc. 

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
In the June 18-24, 2009 Music Awards issue of the St. Louis Riverfront Times, Village Voice reporter Kristen Hinman interviewed me about my book, Bondage and Discipline, Sadism and Masochism: Zack’s Odyssey. Presently, I’m on book signing tour at bookstores throughout St. Louis Mo. Thanks for interviewing me.

Lusipher
www.lusiphersbooks.com   
www.lusiphersbooks.com/lusiphersblog  

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Intimate Conversation with authors Patti Wicklund about Jane McCormick

Jane McCormick is called a sex-trade survivor, and was a “high-class call girl” and former prostitute. But what she really was and still is today, is a successful entrepreneur, a true women’s advocate, and born to be a natural marketing/business major from the college of life. Jane’s played a big part in our American history during the 1960s and today is an inspiration to all women who seek e quality and want to fight against women’s violence.

When I met Jane McCormick fifteen years ago, I immediately knew that she was a unique and wonderful person just by the way she walked into a room. While everyone was busy, trying to have a good time, Jane was busy “working the room” just like she’d done in Las Vegas years before, except, this time she was simply trying to meet new friends. Assertive, selective and smart she methodically worked the room eventually meeting me, an educated artist being laid off from a major corporation.

Teamed together, we formed a successful cleaning service. As time past Jane, entertained me with her Las Vegas celebrity stories, but I had to understand why Jane, had to live such a horrific life. And that developed into this book.

Ella: Patti, tell us about your passion for writing and about your book.
Jane’s life stories motivated me to write “Breaking My Silence” because I needed to understand how and why’s of prostitution.

Breaking My Silence: Confessions of a Rat Pack Party Girl and Sex-Trade Survivor
by Jane McCormick and Patti Wicklund
ISBN-13: 9781604614770

Vadnais Heights great-grandmother Jane McCormick lets down her hair about her days as a “party girl,” and companion to the rich and famous—her induction into the Rat Pack Circle (Chairman of the Board Frank Sinatra; crooner Dean Martin; actors/singers/comedians Peter Lawford, Sammy Davis Jr., and Joey Bishop). For those of us of that ’60’s era, it’s a backstage, women’s-eye view of Vegas and its high-rolling denizens.

But glamour and glitz don’t come cheap or easy. Starting out in rough circumstances, McCormick used her beauty and personality to parlay herself into a life that she found in time had too many of the trappings of her childhood years. The book is, in the author’s words, “not meant to titillate, but to educate,” particularly regarding stricter prostitution legislation—for the men, not the prostitutes. Obtain this hard-hitting memoir—co-written by McCormick’s partner, Patti Wicklund—at www.breakingmysilence.net.

Intimate Conversation with Patti Wicklund and Ella Curry of EDC Creations

Ella: Where are you from?
My name is Patti Wicklund, and lived in a modest North Minneapolis home during the 1950s with two loving parents, a big brother, and loyal grandparents and with neighbors who were family to me.

After graduating from high school, I worked for five years then, after my father died, decided to get a college education. I completed an AA degree in Fine Arts from North Hennepin Community College. Then I went on to finish a BA in Fine Arts from Metropolitan State University and at the same time graduated with a BFA in Visual Communications Design from Minneapolis College of Art and Design.

Ella: How did you start your writing journey?
“Breaking My Silence”, Confessions of a Rat Pack party girl and sex-trade survivor was an eye opener for me. At first I didn’t believe Jane’s stories, then one day I found a photograph of her on the internet with “The Rat Pack” at the Sands Casino in Las Vegas . After that, I needed to understand how Jane got there! So I started writing and kept writing.

Ella: Tell us about the main character?
Jane McCormick is a brave and caring individual who had to struggle through life surviving many horrifying obstacles and is still alive to help others stay out of the business.

Ella: What makes the book stand out and would entice a reader to pick it up?
The honest reality of this book is a must read for parents, teachers, preachers, officers and anyone who needs to understand the cruelty of prostitution and the men behind its corruption.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
The main message to the girls is “Don’t Do It!” Change the laws. Arrest the child molesters, johns and pimps.

Patti Wicklund, Author Breaking My Silence
Buy the book here today!

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Intimate Conversation with Pamela Leigh Starr

Pamela Leigh Starr traces her love for writing back to her first creation, The Terrifying Night, a comedic thriller illustrated by a classmate. Long after, Ms. Starr developed romantic stories, falling in love with the never-ending cycle of two people meeting, opening their hearts and finding their way to love.

Ella: Where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
I was born and raise in New Orleans where I still live, surrounded by its unique culture of jazz, the best food in the country and people who know how to let the good times roll! Les bon temps roulez!

Ella: Introduce us to your series of books and your latest release.
The recent reprints of two of my novels (CHANCES: March '09 and IRONIC: April '09) has prompted me to renew readers' acquaintance with all books in my LOVE FOUND series as well as my most recently released novel STORM.

Ella: What is the most surprising thing you have learned in creating books?
The most surprising thing I've learned in the creation of my stories is that I should always listen to my characters. They "speak" to me as I write, guiding the story in directions I had not intended to go. When I begin a story I have an outline and set format. As my character develop they sometime tell me, "Whoa, Pam, that's not what I would do!" or "Are you crazy? I need to...". What can I do but give in to their demands?
For more details, read the entire article.

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Intimate Conversation with author M. C. Pearson

Intimate Conversation with Linda Wright

Ella: Hello, tell us a little about you.
I’ve been an entrepreneur all my life. I made and lost my first million by the age of forty. I blasted through life at warp speed searching for inner peace. I finally found it. I discovered all things are possible with God. I’ve gone from renovating houses—to renovating lives.

Ella: Where are you from?
I am originally from Chicago, but now live in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia with my husband and over twenty adopted stray and orphaned animals. .How did you start your writing journey? I was absolutely overwhelmed with the desire to tell my extraordinary story.
 

I AM...The Power Within By Author Linda Wright
Ever wondered why you are never able to succeed at anything you attempt?

It's because you’re trying to do it all alone!
Maybe it's time to ask for some divine assistance.

With God all things are possible!

I AM is a collection of inspirational short stories filled with positive attitude tips. Learn how to empower yourself through the use of positive words to attain not only success, but inner peace and divine happiness. Stop quitting and learn how to finally surrender it all to God. The biggest difference between this book and the rest of those positive motivation, spiritual, self-help books is that I AM will lead you straight to the truth, the existence of an all loving Creator.

I AM is an instruction manual on how to renovate your life and overhaul your spirit. Unite with a divine support system through the use of positive words, and literally start walking with God.

This is a well written and extremely entertaining book, revealing the power of positive thinking and the law of attraction (spiritual science) for what it really is…the power of God! Start experiencing God by finally gaining the freedom of salvation. Discover how I restored my soul through a spiritual house cleaning by accepting this simple truth—with God all things are possible!

We are all born with an internal power cell; we just need to learn how to turn it on and charge it up. Be among the first to plug in and get energized through these inspirational insights into co-creating your new improved reality.

The plain and simple truth is that we had better start thinking about what we’re thinking about, and more importantly what we’re saying. Begin to realize the incredible power of positive thoughts and positive words, as well as the devastating repercussions of focusing on negativity through worry. Learn how to become accountable for the results of your focus, by taking responsibility for the consequences. Become empowered through understanding the effect of thoughts and the significance of words. I am happy, I am sad; I am healthy, I am sick. No matter what I choose, I am right. I literally decide what I AM.

Ella: What makes your book stand out and would entice a reader pick it up?
I am not afraid of being open and honest. I’m willing to expose my biggest secrets and worst failures so that others might gain from them. Everyone in the world is searching for happiness and success, as well as physical health and inner peace.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
I want everyone that reads I AM to gain a true understanding of who God really is, as well as the deep spiritual freedom and satisfaction that I now possess.

Ella: What is the most surprising thing you have learned in creating books?
That an ordinary person, like myself, can not only write an entire book but can produce something good enough to be published!

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
Being inspired to produce over 300 pages of insightful information in less than two months and then going on to be published in less than a year. How did you do it? I decided to finally surrender to God’s plan for me, and then I started to listen to his endless inspiration.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
Never give up. If I can write a book as interesting as I AM, anyone can!

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
 Tenacity, tenacity, and tenacity!

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
I am working on several new books with Tate Publishing, also inspired works.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
My recently aired radio interview on THE READING CIRCLE with Marc Medley will be featured on my author Web site, www.LindaWrightBooks.com , as well as some absolutely phenomenal reader reviews. I will also be featured in an upcoming issue of Atlanta Woman Magazine.

Check out my newly released book at...
www.LindaWrightBooks.com

Linda Wright Books
P. O. Box 64
Ellijay, GA. 30540