VBTC Tours: Dinner With Lisa by Rod L. Prendergast - Book Feature & Excerpt

In the disastrous economic times of the 1930s, Joseph Gaston, a young widower with four children, arrives in the small town of Philibuster seeking security for his family. Instead, he faces barriers everywhere. He does his best despite great adversity, but the strain of feeding and protecting his family whittles away his strength. Finally, destitution forces him to consider giving up his children in order to save them. Enraged by his situation, he attempts one last desperate act—on the night he learns about the mysterious Lisa.

Heart wrenching, humorous and historically authentic, Dinner with Lisa incorporates the crucial issues of the depression: poverty, unemployment, drought and racism. In the midst of love and loyalty, trickery and despair, the ultimate message of the novel is one of hope and the courage to survive even the worst odds.

Excerpt # 1

He looked up when Nolan suddenly exclaimed, “Dad!”

“What?” Joseph felt drained as he pulled the overalls from the suitcase.

“The baby isn’t moving!” Nolan sounded alarmed.

Clare had been crying all day; for the first time she was silent. “She’s sleeping,” Joseph said, his attention still on Sarah.

Nolan’s brown eyes were wide with panic. “But, Dad, she’s not breathing!”

The words brought Joseph instantly back to his feet. Bending over the baby, he studied her closely. Nolan was right. Clare showed no sign of life. Quickly Joseph put his face to Clare’s nose and mouth, and waited—prayed—for her to exhale. Nothing. Were her lips blue or was he imagining it? He wasn’t sure. “Christ!” he muttered, as he grabbed the limp infant from Nolan’s arms and shook her gently.

“Did she swallow something?” he barked at his son, startling nearby passengers.

“No,” Nolan said tensely, as he watched his father part the baby’s lips and investigate her mouth with his fingers.

Joseph balled up Cole’s overalls and placed them under Clare’s shoulders, arching her head back and opening her windpipe. In an effort to force air into her lungs, he drew her arms up and over her head. When that didn’t work he flipped her onto her belly, turned her head to the side, placed her hands beneath her chin, and lifted her elbows to expand her lungs. All this took less than a minute.

Joseph had never been so frightened. He had done everything he’d been taught in the army, but Clare still didn’t respond. Oblivious to the silence in the car and the distress of those around him, he began to strike Clare’s back. Again and again he struck, each time a little harder. By now the baby’s small hands and feet were grey.

“Help! Someone please help!” he screamed, looking around pleadingly. “My baby’s not breathing!”

The other passengers were frozen with shock. No one moved.

www.rlprendergast.com

Follow the Tour

April 21 - Author Spotlight at Wise Words
April 24 - Author Spotlight & Book Feature at Lori's Reading Corner
April 26 - Book Featured at B'Tween Prose
April 30 - Interviewed at Writing Innovations E-zine
May 3 - Guest Blogging at Ami Blackwelder's Blog
May 7 - Reviewed at Ereading on the Cheap
May 9 - Interviewed by Louise James
May 11 - Author Spotlight & Book Feature at This Author's Life
May 15 - Interviewed at BK Media Entertainment
May 17 - Interviewed at From the Mind of Omegia

R. L. (Rod) Prendergast was the entrepreneurial kid you saw on your neighbourhood street selling lemonade on a hot summer's day. Recognizing young Rod's preoccupation with money, his mother bribed him to read with an offer of 25 cents per book—and instilled in him a lifelong love of reading. Although he continued down the path of industry—he started and sold his first business before completing his Bachelor of Commerce—he continued to read voraciously. After a number of years working in sales, marketing and management for several companies he spent a year's sabbatical surfing and reading in New Zealand and, free of business pressures, he began to write. Those first words became the backbone of The Impact of a Single Event—which was long listed for the Independent Publishers Book Award for literary fiction, and which became a national bestseller in Canada. Spurred on by the success of his first novel, he took another sabbatical and wrote Dinner with Lisa. He is currently working on his next book.

Welcome to Mass Musings Acacia! Acacia Beumer and Aaron Slaton are currently on book tour with the Virtual Book Tour Cafe', and we lucky enough to be taking part in this wonderful blog tour. There are prizes to be won, including a $50 Visa Gift Card, so leave a comment for a chance to win, and follow the tour HERE for more chances.


The floor is yours Acacia :).

Stigma that is generally associated with self-publishing:

• If the author had to pay to publish their book, it can’t be worthy of reading.
• Why purchase a book from an author who isn’t capable of getting a contract from a traditional publisher?
• If it’s not a New York Times Best Seller, it’s not worthy of reading.

Are you still interested in self-publishing your book?

Don’t be discouraged. There are many authors who are using this route to get their book published. The reality is that if you don’t have a platform or a large following, traditional publishers are not interested. I’m an Indie author and I really had to "take a plunge into deep waters" when deciding to publish my book Launch Out Into The Deep. Yet, I would remove nothing from the experience that comes with knowing that you’ve inspired someone to live again. True story: A local mom shared with my father that she’d purchased my book for her daughter who was undergoing chemotherapy. Her daughter had been deeply depressed but became hopeful and eventually better after reading my book. So if you have a story to tell that will inspire others, Take The Plunge!

Famous authors who self-published:

• Mark Twain, Huckleberry Finn
• John Grisham, A Time to Kill
• Jack Canfield and Mark Hensen, Chicken Soup for the Soul
• T.D. Jakes, Woman Thou Are Loosed!
• William P. Young, The Shack

The above authors are an inspiration and reminders of the reality that becoming a notable author is feasible and within reach!

Acacia Slaton Beumer, author of Launch Out Into The Deep!

Acacia Beumer:

Acacia Slaton Beumer is a graduate of Oral Roberts University; she will earn her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy in the summer of 2012. She works in the Social Service field and finds a sense of joy from helping others. Her husband John is in the United States Army. She has two daughters; Jana is 3 years old Jaci is 1. Acacia loves to interact with readers and welcomes questions and feedback. Her next project is to write an autobiography about her many life experiences. If you're interested in contacting Acacia email her at acacia@launchoutbook.com . May you be tremendously blessed and continue to persevere and daily grow in your walk with Christ.

Aaron L. Slaton:

Aaron Slaton is the author of the poetry and one chapter featured in this book. Writing since the age of twelve, Aaron has been gifted with the ability to bring the Scriptures to life through rhythm and rhyme. Aaron is an aspiring songwriter and producer. If you're interested in contacting Aaron email him at aaron@launchoutbook.com .

Title: Launch Out Into The Deep

Genre - Christian/Inspirational

Format - Ebook, Audiobook, & Print

Publisher - Self Published with CreateSpace

Release Date - December 2011

Website -www.launchoutbook.com

The topics are contemporary and compelling; these are subjects that affect our world today and those for which people are seeking genuine guidance. Her words reveal an understanding of the depth of emotions in our world, as she explains situations through her own personal experiences. Yet, throughout the book, there is a solid and strong emphasis on the Word of God. The author has effectively bridged the gap between the natural and the spiritual world. Her complete reliance on the power of God brings a taste of heaven to some of today's bitter situations. Sexual promiscuity, peer pressure, disease and even crime are discussed with a bold and frank style. Readers will know there is nothing outside of God's reach that He cannot restore and make right again. An added layer of spiritual enlightenment comes from the poems that accompany many of these essays. Intense and extremely insightful, the words of Aaron L. Slaton provide a strong commentary to his sister's counsel. Encouraging, yet filled with many hard-hitting exhortations, this book speaks with a contemporary language and a timeless commitment to love and truth. 

Author Spotlight - Julie Wise

Happy Turkey Day

Title: Dream Bigger: Reclaiming a Life of Joy and Ease
Publisher: iUniverse

Bio:
I believe life is meant to be enjoyed. I love to work with people, listen to their stories, and learn from their experiences.

My training is in Organizational and Relationship Systems Coaching through the Centre for Right Relationship. I am currently completing a Certificate in Conflict Management and Mediation from Conrad Grebel University College, University of Waterloo, Ontario, and I have also completed a one-year healership mentoring program in Advanced Energy Healing and Awareness. I am a Celtic Reiki Master as well.

In addition to managing my practice as a life consultant and relationship coach, I volunteer as a mediator at Community Justice Initiatives.

When I'm not busy with clients, you might find me dancing flamenco… or wandering a beach somewhere in the world, with the wind in my face and the sun on my back!

Synopsis: When life's challenges get you down, and you feel like giving up on your heartfelt desires, it's not time to quit. It's time to dream even bigger! This book is filled with inspiring true stories, simple tools and exercises, and plenty of motivation. Learn how to re-chart your course and bring more joy and ease into your life as you pursue your dreams.

Blurb:
Most people have a dream. For some, it’s something they’ve wanted since childhood but have never told a soul. For others, it may be something they tried once, and it didn’t work out so they gave up on it. Perhaps you have a dream that you keep dismissing because it seems risky or impractical. Our dreams make difficult times more bearable. They also bring joy into our lives, and inspire those around us. However, it takes more than a good imagination to make those dreams come true. It’s also about taking action and staying motivated. First, you need a clear idea of what you want. If you’re not sure, spend some time remembering your childhood and what you imagined you’d do with your life. The seeds to your dream are often found there. Once you know what your dream is, get to know it in detail. What does it feel like to be there? Who are you with, how are you dressed, what’s happening around you? Get familiar with it so that it’s easy to connect to that feeling whenever you need motivation. What’s stopping you from having that in your life right now? Make a list of any challenges or obstacles. The list is intended to give you ideas for actions, not to discourage you from moving forward, so don’t get too bogged down by it. Now take a look at the items on your list. What skills and resources do you have to meet those challenges? Who else can you call on for additional assistance? Talk to supportive friends and family members about your dream and see what ideas they have to help you move forward.

Take all of these ideas and resources and put them together into an action plan. This is a list of the steps you can take to make your dream a reality. Every day, check your list and pick one action you can take. Each time you take a step, celebrate, knowing that you’re that much closer to the life of your dreams.

Five Steps to Your Dream

1. Identify your dream
2. Make a list of your challenges
3. Develop a list of skills and resources
to meet those challenges
4. Create an action plan
5. Take one action each day toward
the life of your dreams

Wise's goal is to help 100,000 people dream bigger. To do this, and to celebrate the release of Dream BIGGER: Reclaiming a Life of Joy and Ease, she invites the public to share their life dream in an online challenge. The 60-day "Dream BIGGER Reinvention Challenge" runs from October 1 to November 29, 2010 and offers contestants the chance to post a video about their dream, get votes and become eligible for an amazing grand prize. "By sharing our dreams, we'll inspire each other to ever greater heights," she explains. Go to http://www.dreambiggercontest.com and enter today!


Amazon Link:http://www.amazon.com/Dream-BIGGER-Reclaiming-Life-Ease/dp/1450253180/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1285424479&sr=1-1

Websites: http://www.juliewiseconsulting.com
(Book Blog) http://www.wise1coaching.wordpress.com 

Join me November 29 at 11am EST at BK Media Entertainment as I chat with Julie on Blog Talk Radio. Live chat will be open for you to ask Julie questions. 

Meet Denise Verrico in our Host Apprciation Feature

Please say hello to Denise.  She runs Immortyl Revolution and has been a host with us since the beginning.  Denise is a big fan of paranormal/fantasy and sci-fi.  She is also the author of Cara Mia and Twilight of the Gods.  Stop into her blog and see her latest interviews,  contests and upcoming news as well.

1.  What do you love most about blogging? 

It’s given me the chance to meet so many fellow authors and to give them the opportunity to share information about their books.

2.  Do you have a most memorable post? 

My first.  I really enjoyed hosting my friend, Linda Robertson, author of the Persephone Alcemedi series.  We talked about her second novel Hallowed Circle.  She’s a great gal and lots of fun.

3.  What is the funniest thing you have ever blogged about? 

A new writer in my critique group read a passage from my third novel in which the POV character is a male vampire courtesan.  Without meeting me, he thought that a gay man wrote the chapter.  I had to laugh that since I’m a heterosexual woman.  Actually, I took the comment as high praise.  When I told the anecdote to a good friend of mine he said, “Well, almost.”  I just had to share all of that.

4.  What do you hope your readers will take away from your blog?

The blog is evolving.  I recently took some time off to get ready to launch my second book, but will be back in full swing come January.  My mission is to help other authors to promote their books and share information with fans and aspiring authors.

5.Where do you hope to take your blog in the future?

I plan to start posting more about the craft of writing, more humorous stuff and offer links to helpful sites.


6. Do you ever have contests and/or giveaways on your blog?

Yes, when authors do interviews on my site, I offer them the opportunity to sponsor a giveaway. From September 28th through November 2nd, I’m holding a giveaway contest to celebrate the launch of my novel. Twilight of the Gods, Book Two of the Immortyl Revolution.  I’ll be giving away copies of both of the novels in the series and other merchandise.

7.  In your opinion, how would readers,  old and new,  benefit from your blog? 

They will have a chance to hear about new authors and books.

8. Anything you would like to share, thoughts, events, etc?

I’m going to be on a Twilight of the Gods blog tour September 21st through mid December.  I’ll be doing some bookstore and library signings and appearing in October at A Mystical Day of Bloodlust in Lexington, Kentucky and The World Fantasy Convention in Columbus, OH.


Thank you for stopping in Denise and letting us get to know you better :).  I appreciate all you do and keep up the great work.

Interview with David Fingerman and Review of Silent Kill - Virtual Book Tour

Today I am doing an interview with author David Fingerman,  plus giving a review of Silent Kill,  a much anticipated post.  Sorry it's late David,  we lost our kitten and our pit and youngest son are so upset.  I had to make a flyer and put it around town lol.

Anyways,  welcome to Walker's Muse David.   I loved Silent Kill!  David is also giving away a signed copy of Silent Kill at the end of his tour,  so leave David a comment to gain an entry and visit his website for his schedule,  or view the Calendar Of Events page for authors on tour.

BK:  Please tell us a little about yourself.

DF:  I've lived in Minnesota my entire life. I love this time of year and am not a fan of summer. Me and heat don't get along. I got severely sunburned years ago when I went to Miami during spring break. My ideal weather is cloudy, 60 degrees, and a good wind. My ideal day is writing in a dimly lit room while listening to my old LPs (vinyl is the way to go, man). Despite rumors to the contrary, I'm really quite sane (clinically speaking). 

BK:  What inspired you to pen your first title? 

DF:  Inspiration for my first published short story, "Autumnal Equinox" came from a Loreena McKennett song, All Souls Night. Inspiration for "Silent Kill" came from so many years of sitting in the courtroom. One gets to see the best and worst of human behavior and emotion. It's something I strive to capture in my writing. 

BK:  How long have you been writing? 

DF:  Pretty much since I learned how. But serious writing, since the early 90s, at least that's when I sent out my first short story in hopes of getting it published. (On a side note ~ it never happened. It's now collecting dust in my file drawer. I think there's a moral in there somewhere about perseverance.) 

BK:  What was the hardest part about writing this particular novel? 

DF:  I had written a lot of short stories and had the mindset that a novel is just a really long short story. It's a totally different thought process. Honestly, I didn't know what I was doing at the beginning (some would say that I still don't). Then there's the research. I'm somewhat lazy when it comes to research, but the deeper I got into the "Silent Kill" the more research I had to do. 

BK:  Have any dreams been realized as a result of your writing? 

DF:  Just having a book published is a thrill. I certainly don't mean this as a slap to self publishing ~ there are so many advantages to going that route, and I have the utmost respect for authors that do (I've gone that route too), but for me there was a certain validation that someone in the publishing business thought my work was good enough to put into print. 

BK:  Is there a message in your novel you want readers to grasp? 

DF:  Stay in school and don't take drugs. KIDDING! Messages? Absolutely not! I just want to tell an entertaining story that will stay with the reader long after they put the book down. But seriously ~ stay in school and don't take drugs. 

BK:  Where do you hope to take your writing in the future? 

DF:  The New York Times bestseller list and movie rights would be just ducky.

What advice do you have for writer's just starting out? 

Write every day and write because it's a passion. Join a writers' group. Develop a thick skin. If you can't take criticism (and unfortunately, not all of it will be constructive) you're probably in the wrong line of work. 

BK:  Anything else you would like to share with us today? 

DF:  Follow my virtual book tour and leave comments. At the end of the tour I'll be drawing a name and sending the winner an autographed copy of "Silent Kill." 

Oh yeah ~ stay in school and don't take drugs. 

LOL.  Great advice David.  Awesome that you are doing a giveaway too.  So please be sure to leave David a comment for your chance to win.  

Now for the Review :). 

http://bkwalkerbooks.weebly.com

Silent Kill by David Fingerman was an excellent mix of mystery and suspense.  From the first page Fingerman holds nothing back.

Louise Miller is a female cop that gets a lot of hassle from her fellow officers.  Her brother Andrew is a new cop in a different precinct.

When Mark Lone Bear,  her friend and fellow officer turns up missing,  Louise puts in all effort to find out what happened to him.

Throughout the investigation,  her brother who is getting broken in as a rookie,  stumbles upon a development in Louise's case,  Mark Lone Bear and his car.

When two more people end up missing,  Andrew and Louise work to find answers to Mark Lone Bear's murder and the kidnappings.  The closer they get to finding the murderer,  the more danger that befalls upon those they love and care for.

Was Mark Lone Bear mixed up in something he shouldn't have been that led to his death?  When one more kidnapping hits Louise a little too close to home,  will she save all three before they end up dead too?  Find out in Silent Kill.

Fingerman did an excellent job in his first full length murder/mystery.  Full of suspense and with an imagination that will leave you wanting more,  this is one title you will want to get your hands on.

The perfect mix of crime,  mystery and suspense,  I couldn't put it down until I knew what happened in the end.  I give Silent Kill ***** (5) Stars,  BK Walker.  http://bkwalkerbooks.weebly.com


Learn more about David Fingerman by clicking the book cover. 

Purchase at Amazon,  Barnes and Noble and Fictionwise.

---

BK Walker Books - All Rights Reserved

Behind The Words with L.E. Harvey

Today my guest is Lauren Harvey!  Please give her a warm welcome. 

L. E. Harvey is a writer and model in Harleysville, PA.  She greatly enjoys all that Philadelphia city life has to offer.  When L. E. is not writing or working on the political scene, she models as a pinup and "alt" (alternative) model.  L. E. admires women like Betty Page, and "Rosie the Riveter" has been her idol since childhood.  She is currently affiliated with The Gypsy Queens, Angels With Ink (AWI), The Cherry Girls, and Curvy and Rocker Pinups.  L. E. Harvey is a proud participating author in Operation E-book Drop, sending e-book copies of her books to the men and women of the U. S. military across the globe!

The Person Behind the Words 

L. E. Harvey 

Who are we writers, that you purchase our work without knowing us? It's a rarity in our times to make any kind of purchase without research, test drives, and the like. Yet, writers are in that tiny percentage of people whose work will be bought, and no one knows a thing about the person in that picture on the back.

Who are we writers? Are we recluses who hide away, typing words for hours on end? Or are we that person who smiled and said, “hi” as you passed by on the street this morning? Who, or what, makes a writer?

Well, just like anything else in life, there is a tremendous variety of personalities in the writing world. Some writers are reclusive. Others are always out and about. Some are extremely friendly. Others can't be bothered to give you the time of day. Writers are as different as peacocks are from chickadees.

Since I fall into this interesting grouping of people, let me tell you a little about the person in my picture.

I am multi-racial. I grew up hearing various accents and languages. It makes for some very interesting and even comical stories. A Spaniard trying to speak to a Slav in English when English was not the primary language for either makes for an unusual conversation! I loved it, though. I am very proud of my mixed heritage. I love being a mutt. Plus, it can be fun to speak to people in unusual languages when they have no idea what you're saying. It's especially good for those annoying sales people that approach you on the streets of cities like New York or Las Vegas. 

I come from a small, but very tight family. Family was always very important, and we all love and respect each other tremendously. We also know how to make each other laugh. We've found that laughter is the most important thing in life, and we make sure that we can't get enough of it. It's a rarity that you see a family picture without at least one of us making some kind of comical expression.

Mine was also a theatrical family. We were always on stage. We sing, we dance, we act. Performing was such an enjoyable outlet for me as a child. The only real issue now is that I will often spontaneously break out into show tunes, and I can't really control it. I don't mind, though. It typically makes people laugh, which is a good thing. 

Since singing was an integral part of my upbringing, music has always been important to me. I listen to nearly every genre of music. There are a few I'm not necessarily particular for, but if the musicianship is good, then you can rest assured I'm listening to it. From opera to heavy metal to bagpipe music, I listen to it all!

That love of music, theatre and comedy has really come into play in my side work as a pinup girl. Let's face it: pinups are cute, coy and entertaining. Since making faces in front of a camera comes quite naturally to me anyway, I had no problem transitioning into the pinup world. It's just a new way for me to carry on the family's tradition of fun facial expressions. 

As for my “real” job as a writer, I've been writing my entire life. While most kids would go out and play baseball, I'd run up to my room to go write a novel. Writing has been my life-long passion, and I know that I am one of the very few people who get to say they are truly living out their dream.

There is so much more to a person than one can fit into a guest blog. Hopefully this has helped you to know the person behind the book. So, the next time a friend comes over and they spot one of my books on your book shelves and they ask about it, you can tell them I'm that crazy lady who breaks out into show tunes and knows how to say colorful phrases in Slavish! 

Lauren is currently on virtual book tour with Authors Supporting Authors,  so please leave a comment here today for her and gain an entry for your chance to win a copy of one of her book at the end of her tour. Lauren's next stop is June 5, with Katie Salidas at http://myimmortalstories.blogspot.com

Please also visit Lauren on the web at http://www.leharvey.com  and on Facebook too.  Thank you so much for stopping in Lauren.  It has been a pleasure. 

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VBT Pit Stop with author Tasha Wright

Please give a warm welcome to Tasha Wright,  author of "When A Tattered Past Catches You".

Synopsis:

Tough willed, strong as nails Willa will do whatever it takes to provide for her family even if that meant putting her life in danger or on hold. Living the street life meant not allowing anything or anyone to get close enough to hurt or destroy her. But, after the death of her mother she is forced to return home and confront a past she tried to erase from her memory.

As Willa confronts a tragic past she also has to confront something else, her long lost love, Damon. Living the street life and becoming the head woman in charge was something Willa did with ease but there was always something or someone missing in her life. Will Willa let down her guard and allow Damon back into her life again or will she continue to live the street life?

Thank you so much for stopping in Tasha.  It is a pleasure having you here today.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I first began writing short stories when I was sixteen years old. My mother pushed me to utilize my wild imagination, so she bought me a computer. From that day I have never stopped writing and I still have the same BIG passion as I did when I had first begun writing.

How long does it take you to write a book?

I feel for each author it will be the time they dedicate to writing. Of course when your work is published you then have so many events and things you will need to do to promote your work but you must make time to continue writing on other works as well. For myself, it would take me about nine months to complete a book. However, many authors will read their work and make the necessary changes, which could run you into a year.

What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

When I am writing my work schedule is very hectic. I have so many things to juggle with my personal endeavors as well as work and school.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I like to write about things people can relate to. I write in such a way that I appear to be talking to my readers. I want my readers to have a connection with me when they are reading my work.

How do books get published?

Of course you have to present a body of work to wither a publisher or agent. It depends on the writer what route they would like to take. I used a book entitled Writer’s Market for a while. It gave me every publishing company in the United States with their contact information and what you will need to submit for them to determine if they will represent you. You will need to stay dedicated and understand that every agency will not accept your work. With every no there will come a yes as long as you are presenting quality or promising work.

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

I use my own imagination of things that happen in relationships and everyday life. I do not take things from my family or friends lives and write about it. I feel that would be a huge exploitation of their lives.

When did you write your first book and how old were you?

I wrote my first book when I was 21 years old. However, I didn’t take the steps of publishing the first book until about two years ago.

What do you like to do when you're not writing?

When I am not writing I just try to relax. I have a loving boyfriend who is very supportive of my writing so there are many times he will make the time to get me away from my atmosphere and allow me the time to rest my mind.

What does your family think of your writing?

My family is very supportive of my writing. My family has always encouraged me and they are very excited for me.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

I have learned that I can challenge myself and multi task. Many times I will write two or three books at a time. I toggle between each book and it has shown to really benefit me.

Do you have any suggestions to help me become a better writer? If so, what are they?

You must first have the desire and the passion to write. Learn the basic structures and grammars so that you’re writing quality books. When you do find your representation, check them out! Every great person must have an even greater team behind them. Writers know what they want to say and sometimes see a word that isn’t really there and that is where your editor will come in. Remember it is not just you, it is a team.

Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say?

I just began with actually publishing so I have had the pleasure to hear from some of my readers. There has been a pattern of them enjoying my ability to write about things they can relate to. Readers have also said they like the fact that if they think they have figured out what will happen I take a turn and flip it. My work is unpredictable.

What do you think makes a good story?

I feel it takes imagination and desire to write a good story. You do not want to write several books and have your readers feel you write about the same things all the time. That will tire your readers and possibly turn them away.

As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

I began writing short stories when I was sixteen years old and at that time I set a life goal to become a published author. I am doing what I want I wanted to do and I love every moment it. I am very humbled and appreciative.

Thank you for taking time to chat with us.  Tasha is on Virtual Book Tour with Authors Supporting Authors and The Virtual Book Tour Cafe',  so be sure to follow along with her at her various pit stops,  leaving a comment along the way for your chance to win a copy of When A Tattered Past Catches you.  You can view her tour schedule at her website http://authortashawright.webs.com

Purchase When A Tattered Past Catches You at the following locations 

www.BarnesandNoble.com, www.Amazon.com, www.Borders.com,

When a Tattered Past Catches You

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Please Welcome Author Katie Salidas

Our guest today is Katie Salidas. Please give her a warm welcome. She is the author of Immortalis Carpe Noctem, and today we will discuss Katie as a writer. Thank you for stopping in today Katie.


Please tell us a little about yourself....

I'm a dreamer. I love to sit and think up stories. I can often be found staring at my computer screen waiting for the muse to strike. When it does, watch out. Thankfully, I have a wonderful and loving family that lets me indulge my need to write. Both my husband and my wonderful daughter know about “Mommy's writing time.” They are super supportive.

Is your family supportive in your writing?

Oh yes, my husband is my biggest fan and promoter. He's also my hardest beta reader. He's not afraid to tell me when a scene just plain sucks; then again, he's also there to tell me how great they are too. And like any good husband, he's my rock when I'm feeling particularly blue. My daughter thinks her mom is just great! She can't really read my stories (and a good thing too as they are a bit mature for her) but she will tell anyone and everyone that her mommy is an author. I've also got a set of extremely supportive parents. When Immortalis was first printed, my Dad bought 20 copies and sent them off to every member of the family.

Do you recall how your interest in writing started?

It started with a story idea that just wouldn't quit. I'd started writing Immortalis 5 years before it was published. After running into many plot road blocks, I shelved the story and tried to move on. But the story just wouldn't let me put it to rest. It demanded to be told and after multiple revisions I found I loved not just the story, but the process. Since then I have been writing constantly.

How long have you been writing?

I've written things down in some form since I was a little girl, but the real, focused writing started around 5 years ago.

What inspires you to write?

I'm inspired by the things I see. Not so much the exact stories, but the questions behind them. For Immortalis, I wanted to answer questions about vampires. Why can't they go out in the sun? Do they have beating hearts? Are they really the walking dead or something else? What are their origins? What would it be like to be a vampire? The answers to the questions really help the story unfold.

Do you ever suffer from writers block? What do you do about it?

Sadly, all the time. Sometimes I just can't write, the muse won't speak. When that happens I try to do something else writing involved. I revise work I've had sitting on the back burner. I read (reading provides inspiration), I work more heavily in the critiquing group (critiquing helps sharpen our writing skills) or sometimes I just sit and stare at the computer screen until something strikes!

What, in your opinion, are the most important elements for writing?

A good muse and a quiet place to hear her. LoL. There is so much that goes into writing it is hard to pinpoint one or even two things to say are most important. You need a good story in your head, and the drive, and not to mention the time to write it. Beyond that you need patients and skills too. Like I said, so much is involved.

What dreams have been realized as a result of your writing?

Seeing my story in print is akin to childbirth, it's a beautiful thing to see years of hard work finally turn into something you can hold in your hands. It is a dream come true.

Any recent appearances that you would like to share with us about any upcoming events?

I am actively promoting this new release, touring the blogosphere. Stop by www.RisingSignBooks.com to see all of my upcoming appearances.

You will find all of Katie's dates for her virtual book tours on her site. Leave a comment for Katie and you may be the winner to receive a copy of her book, Immortalis Carpe Noctem!

Katie, it has been a pleasure chatting with you. I hope you will stop in again when your next book is released. I wish you much success!