Author Spotlight: Berline Thenor!

Anyone in need of a life coach? How about some inspiration? What about a guideline for overcoming past pain and regret? Then keep reading to find out more about all of the above!

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What’s your name or pen name?

My name is Berline Thenor.  I have no pen name. I wanted a pen name to sound all mysterious, but couldn’t think of anything so I just stuck with my name.

What are your genres?

My genres include Christian/Inspirational/Devotional/Self-Help for all.

What have you written?

I have written and published my first devotional called Birthing Purpose. I also write a ‘Weekly Inspiration’ that I send out via email.

When did you begin your writing career?

I started writing… well actually, I realized that it was a gift/talent I had in 2012. After coming through a real dark period in my life I realized that my ability to write was one of the things that had been birthed out of me and I fell in love with it. It wasn’t until 2013 that I started taking time to cultivate it.

Are you a full-time or part-time writer? How do you make time to write?

Currently, I am part-time. But soon and very soon I will focus on it full-time as I turn into a full-time life coach. I don’t necessarily have to make time because I am literally writing all day.  If a thought pops into my head I stop what I am doing to jot it down no matter how long it takes to get it out. If I am in the car I record the words on my phone and translate it into my notebook later. However, the majority of my writing I do late at night after I am finished with my day. I devote about five to six hours to just writing or editing.

What’s your writing process? 

My process is kind of weird or I feel weird when I get into writing mode. Seriously, I will open up my laptop or notebook and won’t start writing for another 30 minutes. After that I may write down a sentence or two and stop and then about an hour later my thoughts come together. That is when I find myself with my ear plugs in writing out everything that comes to my mind. Once I get it all out I leave it alone until the next day.

I write about six days a week.

My music choice is usually gospel. I like live music so I have created a playlist on YouTube to get me going. Something about live gospel music or live music from my favorite singer keeps me flowing as I write.

Do you keep a journal? If so, for how long? Do you find it helpful for your professional writing?

I keep something I call sort of like journal. It is a notebook that I write all kinds of stuff in. Recently I have been gifted some really nice journals that I have begun writing in, but I still love my notebook. When I run out of paper there I may just use the journal. No, it does not help my professional writing because the thoughts in my journal are about my journey and how I feel God is using me.

What’s your inspiration?

What inspires me is how I feel and sense God using me to reach others. I think its mind-blowing how He will download something in me to help someone else and I love it. I love being used in that way. Plus I love to help people and bring them to God so that they may release what is burdening them.

What kind of legacy do you expect your writing to leave?

I want my writing to lead people to get to know the God that I know and write about. I want it to help people begin a journey to get in touch with God and all that He encompasses.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

My best advice is to stay true to you and what God puts on your heart. Many times people will try to direct you in the path they think you should go, but you must stay true to you and your craft. Also, don’t get discouraged by seeing others authors in your genre; there is room for everybody, but not copycats so again stay true to what is in your heart.

What’s on your bookshelf or in your e-reader library?

As I think about my bookshelf I am not sure of how to answer because there are all types of books on there. I have  inspirational, relationship, fiction, non-fiction and self-help from writers of all genres. Plus, there are some I cannot mention because I may get a major side-eye.

What are you currently working on?

I am currently working on my second book on the nameless women in the Bible. I feel like we can learn so much from their stories even though we don’t know their names. Just like we can learn something from the women we meet daily. Even if we don’t remember their name we will remember their story.

Latest release and book blurb?

Birthing Purpose

It is untouchable. It cannot be measured. It is consuming. It makes you feel things that you never thought you could feel. It will leave you speechless, unable to describe in words what it is. Every heartbeat sends it flowing into your bloodstream. Unaware of its next move, you lay awake at night hoping that you can keep it from growing deeper. In places that were once peaceful it finds you. It causes tears to flow from a place that is unfamiliar to you. It causes you to find pleasure in its affliction. It came with an agenda: steal your joy, destroy you, and kill the purpose within you. That ‘IT’ is called pain. It came without warning, but upon its arrival, instantly, it made its presence known by taking residence in every part of you. It came with a grave already dug to bury you. It will convince you that it is over for you, that you have run out of your portion of grace, and that God cannot save you. However, something far more powerful than pain is within. That something within is the life support that is sustaining despite the depths the pain reaches. That something becomes strength when weakness takes over. That something awakens out of the pain and refuses to let the pain be the end of the story, because there is more written. The pain brings purpose to life and before the pain claims the victory, purpose will fight to see the light. The discovering and birthing of purpose is the up side to the pain if pain does not win. When pain hits, it creates an opening within for God to fertilize the purpose that was planted within when we occupied the womb. God allows us to feel the depths of pain, not to the point where it kills, but to the point where it becomes the route through which our purpose is birthed. Through the tears of the pain, the afflictions felt, and battles fought, purpose journeys through that darkness to fulfill the task assigned to it. If you do not allow pain to kill your purpose and you get in touch with what it is awakening within you, then you will be able to birth your purpose out of the pain. It is time to let go of the pain and allow yourself to be caught by grace that will propel you into birthing your purpose.

Tell us about your main character? What actress or actor would you cast to play him or her in a movie about your book?

The book reads like a devotional, but it does have a main character and that character is pain. I know it sounds funny, but it is. It explores the depths of pain; the damage it can cause and cost of letting it win. If a movie had to be made regarding the emotions and actions of what someone goes through when their heart is broken and what they go through to try to escape the pain left behind I would want Keke Palmer to play lead.

How can we purchase your work?

My book is available on Amazon, B&N and all other online retailers.

How can we stay in touch with you?

On Twitter and Instagram: @bthenor

Facebook: Berline Thenor

My email address for inquiries and questions: bthenor@gmail.com

I am also a life coach for coaching: bthenorlifecoaching@gmail.com

I am currently working on getting my website together and when it is ready it will be posted on all my social media platforms.

Author Bio

Berline Thenor is writer, speaker and a life coach at Reaching Destiny, LLC- a company she started in 2014 to help others do just that: reach their destiny. Berline also writes out Weekly Inspiration which is sent out via email to over hundred subscribers. When she is not writing or coaching, she can be found in the gym working up a sweat.  She earned both B.S. in Psychology and MBA from Florida A&M University. She currently resides in Charlotte, NC.

 

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Faith Simone says: My favorite part of this interview is when Berline reminds us to stay true to ourselves. I always say, “There’s only one me and no one can do it better!” I also love the part about learning from the experiences of others. 

HOW DO YOU TURN YOUR PAIN INTO PURPOSE?

 

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The Perfect Summer (Pure Cuteness Ahead!)

Brace yourself people, there’s just all kinds of adorableness coming your way by the bucket full. I mean it, you won’t be able to stand how cute the girls taking over my blog today are. These three little literary titans have managed to write and publish their first and second books all before completing middle school. With summer officially here, their literary sophomoric effort is right on time. Check out the deets below!

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Summary:

The talented trio that brought you The Perfect Present is back…with summer stories that will brighten your day, warm your heart, and prove that life is one of the greatest teachers there is. In Too Big for Teacups, Gabrielle Simone introduces us to the Fernandez family, who is on their way to Disney for a vacation. Marlena, the oldest, would rather stay home and practice with her dance team. But her parents make her go, and Marlena trudges through a miserable week of what was supposed to be a family bonding experience. In the midst of her complaining, her best friend, Jennifer, helps her learn a valuable life lesson and a new outlook on family time.

In Jackie Lee’s A Lesson for Summer, 14-year-old twins, Vanessa and Teresa, had planned their ideal summer vacation. But when their father announces that he’s taking over a new church in a new city, the girls find their summer ruined! Instead of spending their days shopping, talking about boys, and going to the movies, they were going to be moving and volunteering to mentor a bunch of snotty-nosed seven-year-olds. The twins do everything in their power to sabotage their parents’ plans for them. However, in the end, they learn life lessons that truly make this the perfect summer for both of them.

Morgan Billingsley is back with twins, Max and Mickey in A Country Summer. And this time, the suburban duo is unplugging from their iPads, Wi-Fi, and Netflix, to spend the summer with their extended family in a small Arkansas town. This was not at all Mickey’s idea of fun. In fact, she hates the boring country and her “classless” relatives. While Max fits right in with his cousins, Mickey soon feels left out and learns a valuable lesson about life – it doesn’t matter what you have…what matters is who you have. These three young writers will inspire and entertain…and leave you with a lesson or two yourself.

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Excerpt from A Lesson for Summer by Jackie Lee

I knew that look meant that my twin sister did not like what she was hearing.

“There you are. We were wondering what was keeping you,” Dad said in a cheerful voice.

I politely smiled and took a seat beside my sister on the sofa. My eyes darted over to the

strangers in the living room. The man had fine gray hairs around his bald spot. He wore thick

glasses that made his eyes look like a huge red moon. He also wore too much cologne. Whew!

He had the living room lit up like the perfume part of Macy’s. The woman beside him wore this

big Kool-Aid smile. She had on a red dress with blue flowers. Her dress was loud enough for my friends

to hear her across the street. “I have heard so many wonderful things about you, young lady,” said the balding man.

The lady with the loud dress just kept smiling.

“Your parents tell me that you are the captain of the church praise dance team and worship

leader for the youth. That is wonderful! I love to see our youth active in church,” the man

continued.  I just continued to stare at him. My sister elbowed me, so I managed to say, “Thank you.”

My mother jumped into the conversation.

* * *

Excerpt for a Country Summer by Morgan Billingsley

When that last bell rang, signaling the beginning of our summer vacation, I felt like I’d

just been given a Get Out of Jail card. I had been counting down to this day and was looking

forward to hanging out with my twin brother, Max, playing video games, and taking daily

swims in the pool my parents had built last  winter. You know, just having fun.

I wasn’t expecting this.  I mean, in the fun dictionary, a road trip to a

country town was nowhere in the book. Yet, that’s exactly what we were doing.

“Ugh! Are we there yet?” I asked my dad, who was driving our large SUV like a skilled

truck driver. My mom was next to him and they were singing some corny old people song on the radio.

* * *

Excerpt from Too Big for Teacups by Gabrielle Anderson

Six hours, four arguments and three stops later, they made it to the hotel in Birmingham. It was early evening and all Marlena wanted to do was swim. They were staying in a room that had two queen beds and a pullout sofa.

“I call the sofa bed,” Marlena said while putting her bag on it.

“I want the sofa bed,” whined Kyle.

“It’s big enough for the both of you,” her dad said.

Marlena protested. “I don’t want to sleep with him. I called it first.”

Her mother let out a loud sigh then gave Marlena a look.

“It’s been a long ride, let’s go swim,” her father suggested.

“Good idea,” her mom replied. “Get your suits on.”

Marlena and Kyle got dressed quickly. He in basketball shorts, and she in her one-piece. Of

course she wanted a two-piece, but her parents said that was out of the question. Not until she

was old enough to buy it herself. Marlena didn’t think it was such a big deal, most of her friends

had one. While her mom was in the bathroom, she decided to dress Chloe in her suit. She found

her little pick suit with ruffles around the bottom and put it on her. Chloe was such a cute little

girl. She and Marlena always got along. If her mom wasn’t around, she preferred Marlena to

anyone else. Sometimes Chloe even slept in Marlena’s room.

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Eleven year old, Jackie Lee is a lover of the letters and the arts. She has starred in three theatrical productions produced by Cherie Garland. She portrayed Crystal in “The Christmas Present,” Glenda, The Good Witch in “The Wiz” and the Ballerina in “One Night with a King.” Jackie’s love of arts also extends to church. She participates in the praise dance ministry at East New Hope Baptist Church. She utilizes her musical talents as a clarinet player at Forest Hills Elementary School Band. Jackie can often be found at various literary events assisting her mother and guest authors. She also enjoys journaling and making sketches in her notebooks. She resides in Virginia with her parents and siblings. You can follow her at http://thecreativelifewithjackielee.blogspot.com/

Morgan Billingsley is a seventh grader, who loves writing, acting, swimming and volleyball.
She enjoys helping out and making people laugh. Everyone who knows her, applauds her nurturing heart. Morgan can often be found assisting her mother, ReShonda Tate Billingsley at book signings. She is active in her school organizations and serves as secretary for her Teen group in Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Follow her on Instagram @c_momo_b

Eleven year old, Gabrielle Simone attends Pulaski Academy College Preparatory School, where her teachers describe her as hardworking and passionate about learning. She is the student council representative for fifth grade, plays both basketball and soccer and has a personality bigger than life. The confident young writer is also the daughter of young adult author Celia Anderson. Having grown up tagging alongside her mom at book signings and lectures, it’s no surprise that she has become interested in the art. Gabrielle says that one day she would like to attend Stanford University in California, but that may change as she grows older. Currently she resides with her mother in Little Rock, Arkansas, enjoys playing dress up, singing and playing with her American Girl Dolls. She lists both her mother and maternal grandmother, whom she affectionately calls FeFe, as the people who have influenced her the most.

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Buy Links

Brown Girls Publishing-Little Brown Girls

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

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What did I tell you? Is this not the cutest idea? And those author photos: these girls are serving intellectual divatude all day! #GetYoLife Books for kids, written by kids with strong moral lessons. Do yourself a favor and snap one or two up for the child or tween in your life. I don’t think you’ll regret it!

Are there any book series you were obsessed with as a child? I was a Babysitter’s Club fanatic. I think my sister was into Nancy Drew. What about y’all? Also, I’m seriously considering writing in the tween or YA genres in the future. Any tips are appreciated!

Author Spotlight: Fred Raynaud!!!

When I first read over Fred Raynaud’s interview answers the first thing I thought of was beauty for ashes. I can personally relate to Fred’s determination to use his gift of writing after the loss of a loved one. Read on to learn more about this truly kind soul!

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What genre do you write in?

I write contemporary Christian fiction with a slight futuristic slant.

What have you written?

I have written and published a total of 8 books, 7 non-fiction and 1 fiction, the latter being my favorite! Most recent title is “Healing Rain: The Rain King,” book one of the Sons of Thunder series.

When did you begin your writing career?

It’s funny; Healing Rain was 24 years in the making. I roughed out an outline in 89 after a series of dreams. Life and worked kicked in, and the story took a back burner. In 2005, after my son passed away, I had a burning desire to pick it up and write. Again, life and worked kicked in. Six months ago, with my brother struggling with late stage liver cancer, and myself out of work, I knew it was time to write/finish “Healing Rain!” 57,000 words and 33 chapters later Healing Rain was released. The book is dedicated to cancer victims and those who suffer from terminal illness.

I published my first book, Reflections from the Kitchen in 05. Been hitting it hard since mid 14.

Are you a full-time or part-time writer? How do you make time to write?

At this time, I am a full-time writer. I am working on book two in the series: House of Bread: Living Manna

What’s your writing process?

I am, without a doubt, an AM writer. Up at 4:00—Sometimes 5:00, grab my coffee and hit it. For some reason background noise helps at times (music: Indie folk; TV/movies: action). When I hit a roadblock a walk on the beach really jolts me into the creative process.

Do you keep a journal? If so, for how long? Do you find it helpful for your professional writing?

I used to journal – its hard to find the time. Journaling, like blogging, takes time and consistent dedication!

What’s your inspiration?

LIFE! I am a visionary person of faith. I see and learn visually/pictorially. I call it panoramic creativity. I get inspired when I worship and indulge myself in the outdoors.  The rustle of leaves in the wind or a warm breeze on my face—its exhilarating!

What kind of legacy do you expect your writing to leave?

To warm the hearts of the reader and spawn their desire to be close to their Papa God! To leave behind a written gift to my grandchildren – that they may read – and run a good race.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

1.) Write! 2.) Keep on writing! 3.) Focus on the creative, editorializing will come later. 4.) Follow your dreams!!!

What’s on your bookshelf or in your e-reader library?

Goodreads… J Wow – I spent the last forty years as a chef – TONS of cookbooks. The rest is made up of Christian fiction (not a lot), Christian non-fiction (more than the former), business, design, writing, etc…

What are you currently working on?

Book two of the Sons of Thunder series: House of Bread: Living Manna

Latest release and book blurb?

The sky overhead turned charcoal-black. Methuselah was engulfed in chaos. The rain beating on the deck went horizontal—a force as heavy as a fire hose. John cried out, as waves battered the sides of their boat, “BRYON, get inside and secure the cabin…. Tie everything down and turn up the radio. I am going to drop sail….” The boat rocked from side to side. The rain and wind beat John to a pulp.

“John, get back here! We need to ride this out. It’s safer in here!”

 “Bryon, the sail is jammed…. I can’t loosen it! We’re taking on water. The aft end of the boat is starting to flood.”

 John made his way back—they braced themselves. Cupboards in the galley were open. Can goods and supplies flew around like missiles. A can struck Bryon on the brow. Blood poured out of him, “I need a towel, I can’t see.”…

You have a date with destiny. Inside each of us resides a sleeping giant, who at any moment, if woken to the reality of the power and authority we have in Christ, could shake a nation.

Join the author, as he takes you on an epic journey of faith, hope, love, and despair, as seen though the amazing life of John Parker—the Rain King. From his miraculous birth to his date with destiny, see how one person, whose heart is bent before the Lord, can open the floodgates of heaven and bring down rain upon a dry and weary land.

A “Last Days” novel, with powerful prophetic undertones, that captures the heart of humanity, and what it means to bring the Kingdom of Heaven to Earth. Written with such urgency, this is a commission to all saints: awake from your slumber Sleeping Beauty—reap the harvest set before you.

Tell us about your main character? What actress or actor would you cast to play him or her in a movie about your book?

John is a dynamic young man with a heavy burden of destiny on his shoulders spawned by his miraculous birth and survival. Maybe Kirk Cameron: Youthful and seems to fit.

How  can we purchase your work?

Amazon: http://goo.gl/cMrmQx

Amazon UK: http://goo.gl/JPSjD3

eStore: http://goo.gl/ARrInJ

Author bookstore: http://seersgift.com

How can we stay in touch with you?

Author Website: http://fredraynaud.us

Facebook: www.facebook.com/flraynaud

Facebook Fan page: www.facebook.com/healingrainking

Twitter: @Seersgift @healingrainking

Brief Bio

From renowned Chef and culinary executive, to Author…  to novelist…. Fred L. Raynaud, a third generation restaurateur and founder of the Culinary Executive Leadership Institute—CELI, now writes to inspire and makes his home in Anna Maria, Florida, with his amazing wife Jan. Learn more at www.fredraynaud.us

 

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Faith Simone says: Fred is a man after my own heart! Anyone who loves the beach and cooking, emphasizes focusing on the creative and encourages others to follow their dreams is alright with me.

Have you ever used grief as a catalyst for your creativity? Did you turn to writing after being successful in another career? Additional questions for Fred? Comment below!

Author Spolight: Adrienne Thompson!!!

I’m beyond thrilled to feature author Adrienne Thompson today! One reason is that she’s a prolific writer with fifteen published works under her belt. Color me super impressed. The other reason is that she comes across as an awesome and authentic person. Read on to learn more about Adrienne and her latest release!

What’s your name or pen name?

My name, pen and/or legal, is Adrienne Thompson.

What are your genres?

I write Edgy Inspirational Women’s Fiction and Romance. I also recently released a short devotional.

What have you written?

I have written and published a total of 15 books, including the Been So Long, Bluesday, and Your Love Is King series.

When did you begin your writing career?

I wrote my first novel in 2009, but have been a writer of poetry my whole life. I’ve also always been a very animated verbal storyteller.

Are you a full-time or part-time writer? How do you make time to write?

I quit my RN job in 2012 and have been a full time writer ever since. Making time to write has never really been an issue. I love writing and it’s almost second nature for me. The problem I have is deciding what to write. I always have several works in progress at the same time and a few more stories playing in my head.

What’s your writing process? (Number of days you write per week, a.m. or p.m., specific music you play while writing, or anything else that you feel is a vital part of your creative process.)

Music always helps inspire me. No particular music, just whatever moves me at the moment. I don’t really require any certain space or environment. I’m the divorced mother of three children, so I’ve mastered the art of tuning things out—maybe a little too well, lol. I try to write every day, but I don’t beat myself up if I miss a day or two. I try to work an 8-4 workday (I don’t write all of those hours. I also do promo and other writer stuff.), but sometimes, inspiration will hit me in the middle of the night, and I’ll right then. There’s really no rhyme or reason to the way I work, but it works out well for me.

Do you keep a journal? If so, for how long? Do you find it helpful for your professional writing?

I write in a prayer journal when I’m prompted to. It helps me in every area of my life.

What’s your inspiration?

Brokenness, healing, love, acceptance, and the inherent goodness of people.

What kind of legacy do you expect your writing to leave?

I just hope that something I’ve written blesses people for years to come.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Trust your voice, be authentic, and never give up.

What’s on your bookshelf or in your e-reader library?

Wow, that’s a loaded question! Well, too many to name, really. I’m not only a writer and reader, but I’m a horrible book hoarder.

What are you currently working on?

I’m working to perfect my January release, Ain’t Nobody, a women’s fiction novel.

Latest release and book blurb?

My latest release is Better, the follow-up to Your Love Is King. Here’s the blurb:

First, her marriage fell apart, then her life fell apart. She’s been through hell. He just wants to make things better… but will she let him?

Carla Foster is still reeling from what she calls “the ultimate betrayal” of catching her husband in the midst of his infidelity. Now, seemingly stuck in marital limbo, she finally decides to move on with her life only to find herself face-to-face with a monster. As her life begins to crumble, she wonders if things will ever get better. Will Carla be able to find healing and eventually, love?

Tell us about your main character? What actress or actor would you cast to play him or her in a movie about your book?

Carla is a seemingly strong woman plagued by some serious, life-altering issues. She is a fighter, but finds herself sinking fast. I’m honestly not sure who I’d cast to play her. I always have a picture of who the characters are in my head, and they are real people to me. It’s hard for me to choose an actress. Maybe Nia Long?

How can we purchase your work?

My books are available at:

Amazon: http://ow.ly/fxVXG

Kobo Books: http://ow.ly/fxW6V

Barnes and Noble: http://ow.ly/fxW4y

Amazon UK: http://ow.ly/miFUU

How can we stay in touch with you?

Website: http://adriennethompsonwrites.webs.com/

Blog: http://authoradriennethompson.blogspot.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH3qpX69quIi2_O1A-c84XQ

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AdrienneThompsonWrites?ref=bookmarks

Twitter: https://twitter.com/A_H_Thompson

Instagram: http://instagram.com/ahthompsn

Tumblr: http://authoradriennethompson.tumblr.com/

Bio: Married at sixteen, a mother twice by seventeen, and thrice a mother and divorced by twenty-four, Adrienne Thompson is no stranger to adversity. Not your typical teenage mother, she went on to complete her college degree and to earn her nursing license. She attributes God’s faithfulness as the catalyst for her success in life. Now, having raised two children as a divorced mother, with a third fast-approaching adulthood, she is sharing a long hidden talent and passion with the world. Using the lessons that life has so expertly taught her as a guideline (betrayal, abusive relationships, self-esteem issues, witnessing the deteriorating effects of drug abuse), she has created stories that will both entertain and inspire the reader.

Adrienne currently resides in Arkansas with her daughter. Formerly an RN, she now writes and publishes her stories full time. She is also a motivational speaker.

Faith Simone says:

Ok, so I now officially have a new author to stalk. Those answers were amazing. I particular connected with Adrienne’s advice to new writers: “Trust your voice, be authentic, and never give up.” And her personal story of triumph reads like a novel itself. Ms. Adrienne is one to watch, and an author I plan to have on my bookshelf for years to come!

Ever read any of Adrienne’s work? How do you feel when you discover a new author? Do you binge read their work, or pace yourself?

Author Spotlight: N.N. Light!

I’m so happy to feature author N.N. Light today!  She’s affectionately known around the blogosphere as Mrs. N and she’s a woman on a mission to spread kindness and positivity. There’s something so gracious about her. So sit back, get comfortable and let’s get all up in her author business for a minute.

What genre do you write?

Urban Fantasy Romance

What have you written?

I have written two books, Princess of the Light and Thirsty for Water.

When did you begin your writing career?

I could be cute and say I began my writing career at the age of five. I wrote/spoke my first story and if my memory serves, it was about a dragon-battling princess. Professionally, I began my writing career in 2012. I started writing Princess of the Light and a few months later started blogging.

Are you a full-time or part-time writer? How do you make time to write?

I am a full-time writer but that wasn’t always the case. I am blessed to be married to a wonderful man who makes enough money for us to live comfortably. This allows me to write professionally and fulfill my dream.

I schedule a block of time every day to write. I started doing this back in 2012 and it has become a habit. My mind is trained to switch over to writing every day at one o’clock. This has helped me tremendously to write for a while and switch back over to doing the other things that need to be done (dishes, cleaning, grocery shopping, laundry, etc.).

What’s your writing process?

My writing process is a pretty simple one. I write every day (Monday through Friday) from 1-5 pm. I have a writer’s nook my husband created for me. In it, I have my computer, sticky notes and a purple pen, inspiring quotes all around me and my writing mascot (a delightful teddy bear figurine my husband gave me years ago). Before I start writing, I rub the top of my mascot’s head for good luck. I also have a purple cup with matching straw that holds my water. I can look out the window at the trains going by and it is perfect for me.

Music is a must for me when I’m writing and lately I have been listening to classical music. Although I listen to classic rock and others, depending on the scene I am working on.

Do you keep a journal? If so, for how long? Do you find it helpful for your professional writing?

I used to keep a journal and write in it every day. It helped me deal with life’s ups and downs. I don’t have time right now but would love to start journaling again.

I did find it helpful when I was first writing professionally because I was able to improve my writing skills. I worked hard on my dialogue and expressing myself through my journal.

What’s your inspiration?

I’m inspired by so many things but I think it all starts with my inner self. When I was growing up, I was a shy girl and not very popular in school. I vowed when I graduated high school to never let someone else dictate how I feel about myself. So, the little girl inspires me to constantly try new things and experiences.

What kind of legacy do you expect your writing to leave?

I hope that when people read my writing, they are inspired to make a difference in their corner of the world. My mantra is to spread the Light and my mission is to help others in whatever way I can. It doesn’t take much to spread the Light (a smile or word of kindness) and it makes a huge difference.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Never give up! If your dream is to get published or to be a professional writer, go for it. Hold tight to your dream and with perseverance, faith and hard work, you can achieve your dream!

What’s on your bookshelf or in your e-reader library?

I’m currently reading Murder by Magic: Twenty Tales of Crime and the Supernatural by Rosemary Edghill, Miss Marple: The Complete Short Stories by Agatha Christie and A Romance for Christmas by Kayelle Allen

What are you currently working on?

I’m currently writing book two of the Princess of the Light series.

Latest release and book blurb?

Title: Princess of the Light

Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance

Blurb:

Gabriel, the Archangel and Messenger of God – yeah that Gabriel, visited Mary Miller. He told her, as the key, she is destined to spread the Light and vanquish the Darkness. Her first assignment is to restore the soul of the Walking Man. Sounds simple enough until she’s thrown in the face of evil, and then Joe Deacons enters her heart. This battle just got a lot more complicated. She must complete her mission without losing all she loves. 

Tell us about your main character? What actress or actor would you cast to play him or her in a movie about your book?

Mary Miller is a woman in her late twenties who loves her job as a bookstore manager and loves her life as a single woman. That is, until Gabriel, Archangel and Messenger to God, declares she is the Princess of the Light and the key to restoring balance between good and evil. Just when things couldn’t get any more complicated, she meets and falls in love with Joe Deacons. She’s stronger than she gives herself credit for and with the power of the Light, she can defeat anything thrown her way.

I don’t have anyone in mind for the role of Mary but I have heard that my book reads like a movie. As long as the actress can be witty while wielding ancient weapons works for me. Oh and she has to have auburn hair. J

How can we purchase your book?

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/469480

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/princess-of-the-light-nn-light/1120170709?ean=9781502438454

Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/Princess-Light-N/dp/1502438453/ref=la_B00N277I4E_1_1_title_1_pap?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1411398988&sr=1-1

Amazon Canada: http://www.amazon.ca/Princess-Light-N-ebook/dp/B00N19FDKO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409690022&sr=8-1&keywords=princess+of+the+light

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Princess-Light-N-ebook/dp/B00N19FDKO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409689955&sr=8-1&keywords=princess+of+the+light

Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-CA/ebook/princess-of-the-light-1

Indigo: http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/books/princess-of-the-light/9781310880230-item.html?ikwid=princess+of+the+light&ikwsec=Home&ikwidx=0

iTunes/ iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/princess-of-the-light/id913013798?mt=11

How can we stay in touch with you? 

Newsletter:

Sign up for my Princess of the Light newsletter to get exclusive content on all things book and writing related: http://ymlp.com/xghjsueygmgh 

I’d love to connect with you either via email or via these various social media sites:

Website: http://princessofthelight.com

Blog: http://princessofthelight.wordpress.com

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/nnlight

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/NNP_W_Light

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/nnlight

Email: nnlight@outlook.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/PrincessOTLight

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/n-n-light/90/1a7/902

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/118060034268079734144/posts

Triberr: http://www.triberr.com/nnlight

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/nnlight

Independent Author Network: http://www.independentauthornetwork.com/n-n-light.html

Thank you so much, Faith, for having me on your blog today. You’re so gracious and I am so grateful!

Faith Simone says:

 “I vowed when I graduated high school to never let someone else dictate how I feel about myself.” Mrs.N was preaching when she said that. Don’t let that little nugget slip by you. Love it!  I also love her discipline in creating and sticking to a writing schedule. It’s so much easier said than done. I admire her dedication. I told y’all Mrs. N was a gracious lady. Look at all of those great links she provided to keep in touch with her! She’s all about connecting with people and spreading her light.

How do you stay positive? What’s your favorite random act of kindness? Tell us about it in the comments below!