Tangled Webs (The Haunted Book 2) By Bibiana Krall and Veronica Cline Barton

10/10/2021

Multi-genre, multi-volume co-authors Krall and Barton introduce us to their collection of tales for the fall season:
Travel the world and enjoy a collection of luxurious short stories with a paranormal edge from the writing desks of Bibiana Krall and Veronica Cline Barton. This 'spirited' anthology is guaranteed to give you the shivers and keep you reading late into the night with heady doses of mystery, haunted imagery and psychological suspense. Catch up and read Hearth Fires (Book #1) and get ready for an intense ride to places unknown.

HVISKE (Norway)

Here in the fjordic crags, each of us can be the victim of ourselves, the frozen death within waiting to be unleashed. I hear their silent whispers cry… ‘meg, meg, meg’. Most I choose to ignore, letting karma’s destiny of actions unfold. For those I extricate, the journey into the Northern Light or depth of darkness is swift.

Choose wisely, hviske within.

WIDOW’S WALK (Falmouth)
After inheriting a historic mansion on the shores of Cape Cod. Abigail is consumed by grief for the loss of an incredible woman, and tormented by a childhood ghost that does everything possible to scare her out of her wits.

When the troubling entity makes physical contact, it’s clear that Abby is in danger. Does the mysterious phantom want her dead?

SCULPTURE OF THE DEAD (Aspen)
I touch the cold, Colorado marble with my hands, running my fingers over the veins. I know when the stone matches the traits of the departed. Sculptural portraits, masks of the dead, fragments of limbs…the living think they want to remember their dearly departed with my creations.
Sometimes it’s better to forget.

SPIRIT ISLAND (Jasper)
Seychelle is a free spirit, taking one day at a time and doing her best to help her family. When she accepts a creative assignment and experiences something, haunting and otherworldly in the wilderness… will it help her understand her own life better or carry her down a crooked and violent path she cannot return from?

The past is alive.

MODE de VEUVE NOIRE (Quebec City)
Selfie, pose, look at me, I’m the fashion influencer you want to be.
Follow, buy, so yesterday, darling--opinions, trends my ultimate worth. When wannabe, legend in her own mind Monique hits the streets of Quebec with an antique camera once owned by the famed Madame Coco, the photos she takes provide a stroke of famed acclaim, or dismal despair to those she hoped to install in her style hall of shame. The camera never lies, Madame.

Click. Click. Click.

RAGNO DAZANTE (Italy)
Itsy, bitsy spider, dance, twirl and spin that tangled web. What waits for us on the other end of the cosmic red string? Aurelia has it all, a lush life in Italy, and fierce looks to match, yet she uses her power to dominate, mistreat and humiliate another woman.

When Pietra finally embraces her dark birthright, the wicked game is afoot.

Hoo, boy! I love these stories! I can’t decide which is my favorite. but I do know which one creeped me out the most. Spirit Island takes that top slot, followed closely by Ragno Dazante. RD thoroughly surprised me with the ending. I didn’t see that coming. Mode de Veuve Noir had an unexpected climax also. Hviske was quite surprising as well. I guess my favorite is between Widow’s Walk and Sculpture of the Dead. Anything that makes me laugh as much as those two stories did lands at the top of my list for humor.
This is a perfect offering for the fall season we are in now. What is left unsaid is almost as important as the writing. Extrapolation is a mark of good writing!
5 stars from me!

You can buy this book:
https://www.amazon.com/Tangled-Webs-Haunted-Book-2-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-tangled-webs
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/tangled-webs

Here is the review of Hearth Fires, book 1 in the series:
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/hearth-fires-the-haunted-book-1-by-bibiana-krall-and-veronica-cline-barton
Here is the review of Wicked Mist, book 3 in the series:
www.wordrefiner.com/book-reviews/wicked-mist

You can follow the authors:
https://www.twitter.com/Bibiana1Krall
https://www.bibianakrall.com
https://www.amazon.com/author/bibianakrall
https://www.youtube.com/channel/bookem channel
https://twitter.com/VClinebarton
https://www.veronicaclinebarton.com
https://myamericanalmostroyalcousinseries.com
https://www.facebook.com/myamericanalmostroyalcousinseries
https://www.amazon.com/Veronica-Cline-Barton
https://www.goodreads.com/author/Veronica_Cline_Barton
https://www.youtube.com/channel/#Bookem

Copyright © 2021 Mark L. Schultz except for the authors’ introduction

74 Comments

Bibiana Krall link

10/10/2021 02:25:22 pm

Thank you Mark, for the excellent review of Tangled Webs! These stories kind of came from out of nowhere for me, especially Spirit Island, as it was a photograph and then a smidge of folklore about a lake in Canada then I was knee deep in it. Veronica’s story Sculpture of the Dead makes me laugh every time I read it. Grace in many ways has become a mischievous sidekick and a character who certainly stands out for me. It’s so much fun to be here with both of you and many thanks to everyone reading and reposting. I’m looking forward to spending the week talking about these stories. I adore Halloween and spooky tales. 🎃🍁🎃

Mark

10/10/2021 02:31:13 pm

It's pleasure to have you and Veronica back on my website. The last interview was great fun and we are going to pickup from where we last left off.
That tiny bit of inspiration for Spirit Island developed into an amazing story that gave me the biggest chills of all the stories.
I am so glad that you and Veronica wrote this second Halloween collection. I will add a link to the first collection.
First questions.
What kind of marketing are you doing or planning on doing for this book?
What kind of marketing has worked the best and the least for you in general?

Veronica link

10/11/2021 08:48:16 am

Marketing during a pandemic is a whole new beast IMHO. I think the whole dynamic has changed because the world has gone through such a dramatic event. One of the 'experts' I follow said it best--many people are going through tough financial and personal times...there may not be funds to buy books...People may have put reading on the back burner to deal with other life changes.

One thing Bibiana and I did differently this go round was to start putting teasers out on Tangled Webs at the beginning of the year. I know most people were not thinking of Halloween back in January, LOL. We decided to focus on the story content and make intriguing posts and tweets about each tale. The rationale was to generate interest for each of the stories--some are a bit quirky (Sculpture of the Dead, I hope people enjoyed the tweets featuring fabulous high heels and bones💀👠) and some are down right scary (Spirit Island, don't mess with those ghost brides!)👻

We were consistent, putting out a couple of tweets every single day so that people would 'get to know' the story content and want more. If you've follow us on Twitter, you've seen some pretty fun exchanges this year that hopefully piqued your interest in the book!

I post on FB a bit. We started placing content on Pinterest this year too. I started a business account to promote my books--the main thing to know here is if you want Pinterest views, you're going to have to pay to have your pins 'seen'. No ads...well, your views are going to go down...significantly.

For Bibiana's beautiful videos she produces, we both have YouTube channels for the content. I love, love, love the book trailers. they're a fabulous way to see your story come alive.

I do a blog post each week on many topics--but again, there was always a section talking about Tangled Webs, even when we were still writing the stories. We wanted people to see where we were in the process and join us on our writing journey.

We're getting ready to hit (what used to be) the biggest book selling season of the year, starting in November. I will be placing ads for the series directly to the readers on BookBub and possibly Goodreads, bypassing social media ads. I'm extremely interested in seeing how this pans out.

For 2022, my focus will be on SEO and getting the most mileage/views out of my web and social media content. You need to pop up when people do a search on the internet. I'll also be doing more with the cozy mystery crowd--these are my peeps for the majority of my tales and it's where my readers are. I need to start tending my cozy garden to make my readership grow.

Bottom line, marketing 'ain't' for sissies, especially during a pandemic...Keep the faith, be consistent, and get your story 'out there' the best ways you can to your reader audience!

10/10/2021 03:06:09 pm

Thank you for the awesome book review for Tangled Webs, Mark--we truly appreciate it! This collection was so fun to write with Bibiana. Our second year of lockdowns and the pandemic had our scary minds reeling, lol--there was loads of inspiration to choose from.

I thoroughly enjoyed Bibiana's tales--although I will not be walking in the woods for a while (Spirit Island) #Eek! Ragno Dazante's ending had me shaking my head--she does know how to do the surprise ending that's for sure.😲 Widow's Walk may have just put the kibosh on my dream to own a Victorian mansion...

As for my tales, I was taken in by the 'green' idea of what if Mother Nature got mad at the humans (Hviske) mixed with rumors of the alien kind that were floating around this past year. My love of shoes and the bizarre inspired Grace in Sculpture of the Dead--always fun to be a bit cheeky with your scary.😁💀👠 Mode de Veuve Noire was inspired by the celebrity cancel culture that burst on the scene this year. The times of 'look at me' may have come to an end...the world has more pressing issues to deal with these days.

I'm looking forward to the discussions this week! #Halloween is coming...🎃

Bibiana link

10/11/2021 06:38:25 am

Thank you both for your kind comments.

I loved Veronica’s story Hviske for the aspect of the earth being sentient and having human-like feelings towards disrespect towards her. To me that would be a million times scarier than a ghost. Marketing… the second tier of horror. 😂☕️

Marketing is tough and word of mouth still rules. But. Video is big right now and getting bigger all the time. Last year we made what I call a ‘feature trailer’ for Hearth Fires to give an idea to readers what they might expect. We were not done with the stories, but the plots and central theme had been cemented. Then came individual trailers for each story which we did again this year.

An anthology like Tangled Webs can be difficult to define and visuals like the trailers I produce help people decide if they want to take a chance on our writing. I think they summed up the mood and a few wonderful places you might go. The music is the icing on top.

We aren’t just writers, we are also storytellers and that remains important as to how we are delivering The Haunted Series to our incredible fans. It’s beyond important to me that our readers have an unforgettable experience.

10/11/2021 09:31:10 am

Marketing and promoting books is a serious issue. It is so hard to get noticed. You both are taking so many of the right steps according to conventional wisdom. It will be interesting to see how it all pans out. All of the results depends so much on the readers, of course. They have to see your book, but you are taking the right actions. So there should be a payoff.
New questions.
I have seen some authors use music to flesh out the characters, they create a playlist for them. They publish the playlist in the back of the book.
Have you ever thought of adding music to your books, like what the characters listen to or they went to a concert as a plot point?

Bibiana

10/11/2021 01:14:43 pm

It is tough to get noticed considering there are more than five million titles on Amazon, it’s way hard.

Veronica has so many great ideas on how to reach new readers and I’m always looking at ways to reinvent and move forward. Can’t wait to see if the BookBub ads help. I also tried Pinterest ads, but the second my ad ran out everything went poof and views down to almost zero again. Coincidence? Who knows. 🎃

I did a playlist once for my scary book, Volga Black. I set it up on YouTube and kind of hard a crush on a Polish rapper who is the Slim Shady of Eastern Europe. I love the concept and idea for it, but to be honest it didn’t attract new readers to my books, but they liked the list…

I’m shooting over the roofline now, but I’m guessing that a playlist might be more effective in MG, YA and Serials, than in the adult fiction readership I’m attempting to cultivate. I never say never, but I will only try that again if it feels like it will serve and expand the breadth of my story.

10/11/2021 02:34:27 pm

I haven't developed playlists for my books to date. There is one YouTube video of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra' Christmas Canon that I've told readers to have playing when reading Chapter 20 of Mistletoe and Mayhem: Yuletide at Castlewood Manor. It fits the scenes so well and to this day, makes me tear up. There is power in matching certain scenes to music, no doubt!

10/11/2021 03:18:50 pm

I remember that now! It was totally perfect for that wonderful holiday story!

10/11/2021 02:21:31 pm

Getting noticed is the hardest thing. You have a good backlist and reminding people about that will help. Some people like to read a series, others like only one book from an author at a time. You have to throwing stuff out there and some will stick and some won't. A few months later everything changes. There is no set it and forget it. Constant attention is required.
I know an author that was inspired by different music for different characters and scenes in her books. She started tracking that, making notes for the back of the book. She also worked titles into the stories as chapter subheadings. Some people really liked that and became solid fans.
You might be right. Many kids are really into music, but there are a lot of rocking boomers out there also. It is important to know your audience. Everyone is not going to read your book no matter how good it is.
New questions.
How do you know when a book or a story is finished?
Did anything in this book come as a surprise while you were writing?

10/11/2021 07:11:19 pm

That’s the truth. It’s a constant challenge to stay in the game and to connect the way we need to, especially since travel and face to face readings etc are at a minimal and probably won’t ever be the way they used to be again.

I don’t ever feel like a story is done, but I do feel after many edits and read throughs there’s a point where an author has to say to themselves this is my very best and to allow themselves room to share it and to celebrate. When I look back at works from even a year ago, I see progress and to me the real success is moving forward and staying passionate about the journey.

As far as surprises for me Ragno Dazante was a rabbit hole. I found so much from the research, the toughest part was choosing what to use and what to leave behind. The dance this story is based off was one I loved as a young girl and performed many times, but I had no idea what the symbolism or folklore behind it entailed. It was pretty cool. It’s a wild story and it took a lot to not tell everyone, because I was so excited.

10/11/2021 09:10:04 pm

I'm pretty much a plotter when it comes to my tales. Writing a series has enforced that discipline. If I don't write things down, I forget it, LOL--a big no-no in the series world.

Short stories for me, are much harder to write too vs a novel. You have an extremely short amount of time to develop the story arc from start to finish--the word count kind of enforces that.

I've learned a tremendous amount from the short story development, however. You need to figure out a beginning-middle-end and go from there. Things shift around a bit as you write, but it amazes me with the short story limits, you can be pretty concise and direct--which often makes for a more powerful tale.

For my stories, I fell in love with Grace as soon as I conceptualized Sculpture of the Dead. I still laugh whenever I see the foot skelly in a pink shoe on our kitchen counter. What's even funnier is seeing my husband shake his head and give it a side-eye whenever he passes it, LOL. He's found being married to a writer has its...ahem...stranger moments...😁💀👠

10/12/2021 06:44:45 am

Writing short stories are great exercise for an author. Most genres require that the story move along at a good clip. If the reader is bored too long they might close the book. This is especially critical for books in Kindle Unlimited because the author is paid a fraction of a penny for each page read.
Knowing when to say 'finis' is important, because if you don't the story will never be published. There are a few writers who use the excuse of one more round of edits to avoid publishing. Of course, we never will know that person's name or read their book.
New questions.
How long does the research process take before you start to write a story or do you do the research as you write?
How long did it take you to write the first draft of these stories?

bibiana

10/12/2021 07:07:13 am

"Knowing when to say finis is important." Yes, it truly is. There can be moments of self-doubt or even discombobulation in a story where you have to take a step back and consider whether or not the writing accomplished what you had intended. If not, it's time to let it rest and do something else for a while. If you come back and feel the same way that means something.

Research as a writer is a daily, 24/7 endeavor. I am always looking for ideas and ways to enhance my storytelling.

The research for this collection began the minute I had the seed and didn't end until the final edits. Drafting the stories went quickly in less than a few weeks, but editing and fine tuning took at least six months.

I started drafting in January and didn't feel satisfied until the end of May and still went back again to make final adjustments over the summer.

Each story is different. If it's long text, such as a novel or novella, I break up the edits by chapter or by twenty-page hunks and keep a log to see my progress with an end date, so I don't get overwhelmed.

I have learned that every time I start a new story, be it short or long, I will be challenged and sometimes it's not the draft, lack of creativity or drive, but real-life calling me to be present that makes it tough to complete.

10/12/2021 08:06:21 am

I think getting the inspiration/idea for a new story that 'sticks' is key for me. There's always thousands of 'what ifs' floating around but when 'the one' keeps playing in your head, that's when I know it's time to start building on the concept and do the research.

For Sculpture of the Dead, the idea came from a totally unexpected source; an article I read in the Daily Mail of a person who lost a leg and wanted the bones preserved. A taxidermist in Canada performed the service. Somehow, that triggered the idea of sculpting to me and as I researched that topic, I found a marble quarry outside of Aspen, CO where the marble was used to build the Lincoln Memorial. I then went to research prosthetics and how they're made, focusing on the articulated designs. Yada-yada-yada a few weeks later I had the outline of my story. Collaborating with Bibiana was great too, to bounce around ideas and get her opinion, which I value very much.

As for first drafts...that took a few weeks after the outline was completed. I schedule in the time to write with my other series so that I know when a project needs to start and finish. After the draft is completed....rounds and rounds of editing and proofing is done, usually lasting for months. There's always something that needs to be tweaked until the publish button is pushed!

Bibiana Krall

10/12/2021 08:15:28 am

I remember the first time you shared the plot of this particular story. Laughter is the best medicine and this one, dare I say it? Tickled my funny bone. Our creative sessions are so free-flow and helpful to work though what will help and what won’t. I’m super grateful for this collaboration and a place to talk about it with Mark’s blog as well. This is really fun! 🍃☕️📚

10/12/2021 08:26:09 am

Research is very important. It can lead to all sorts of interesting things. As seasoned writers, you both have learned to avoid sharing all of the delightful tidbits gleaned. Including only what is pertinent to the story avoids the dreaded information dump. Many readers will close a book when they are bored.
The articulations for prosthetics must be pretty complicated for some joints. The ankle comes to mind.
It sounds like you two make a great team.
New questions.
While writing these stories did you get ideas for stories that are not in this anthology?
How early was it that you realized how powerful words can be?

10/12/2021 01:21:45 pm

We do make a great team! The second Tangled Webs was in the hands of our editor, the spirits were speaking.

Next year is already moving forward in concept and story placement, but the title and theme will stay on the down low for now.

Veronica's muse was on it. Mine has been a bit slower to speak, but there is at least one I have an outline for. The best aspects of this series are getting to travel around the world (in story) and get a spooky-ooky chill for the season.

I knew words mattered when I was quite young. Of course like most children, I had picture books and was lucky enough to have people read to me. I was also raised Catholic and the formal, Latin mass was my favorite, especially during the holidays when they burned fragrant incense.

Often I was unsure of what the words meant and would try to look them up in English or ask someone who would know.

I'm still fascinated by cadence and language. I deeply appreciate the proper word used in an eloquent or new way.

10/12/2021 05:51:58 pm

Cadence in language can be a beautiful aspect of words. It's not easy to quantify, for me, but I recognize the beauty of it when I hear it.
Several decades ago, chanting by Gregorian monks became very popular. Having grown up in Protestant churches I was thoroughly entranced by the album. I enjoyed listening to all of the tracks. The male voices were mesmerizing for me.
A well-placed word can make a big difference. Some years ago, my wife was watching a BBC movie, I don't know what it was. I heard two words of dialogue and it stopped me in my tracks. "Insalubrious morass." An unhealthy swamp. It was a mind-blowing moment for a reason I am unaware of.
New questions.
A lot of new authors struggle with finding beta readers. Because, after the first draft is done, fresh eyes and feedback become very important.
Do you have alpha-readers and/or beta-readers to help you smooth out a lot of wrinkles before publishing? If you don’t, why?

10/13/2021 06:47:26 am

I have not had the pleasure of hearing Gregorian chants in person. There is a cathedral in Savannah that used to host that on Sunday nights, but with all the changes in the world, I don't know if they still do? I would love that! As far as the BBC show, I am a fan just from that! I am never that witty in repartee, but I would like to be! LOL.

I have both Alpha and Beta readers. They are an important part of my community.. I hesitate to send an entire manuscript to anyone in its newborn or newly drafted state, as I try my best to respect people's time, and hope for the same.

When I am stuck I will send a scene or a chapter, if I need their expertise or eye on it to get some honest feedback.

I also use Beta's and they get to see the manuscript in better shape than the Alpha's. I often ask for specific feedback like theme, dialogue, etc. Whatever their expertise and genre preference is I ask questions for focused feedback based on their knowledge and interests.

When I first got started in this business, someone offered for their Beta to read for me and it turns out this person was a contemporary romance reader.

Needless to say that didn't go well. I don't write for that particular audience, although I often use romanticism and you will certainly see that in Tangled Webs. The volunteer was honest and felt like she missed out on the romance tropes that she loves.

It's not only important to have people willing to do advanced reading, but they also need to understand and appreciate the genre. Feedback is great in any shape, but when it's focused, it can help a writer improve their craft and supercharge the reader experience.

10/13/2021 08:32:56 am

I do have beta-readers and am one myself! It definitely adds value to the process and makes for a stronger story. I release my tales to them after the professional editing has been completed. I don't expect the readers to take on that role.

I'm looking for their reactions and suggestions to the story. What worked, what needs to changed. My betas are fabulous and some of them I've know since 7th grade--believe me, after knowing someone for fifty years they are not afraid to tell you what is on their mind, LOL!

I take on beta reads for writers I follow on Twitter. I can't do that many with my writing/reading schedule, but will always try and help when a writer whose books I've previously enjoyed reaches out. It's an important part of being in the writing community and especially for Indie writers. A new release is a very big deal. If I can help get a quality product out and promote it, I'm in!

10/12/2021 08:44:17 pm

I love that Bibiana and I have been able to work together on The Haunted Series. I know I've learned a ton from the experience and the laughs we've shared the past 2 years have been priceless!

The writing of these tales did trigger new ideas. As Bibiana mentioned, we're churning ideas for the next release. That's what I love about the writing process, you're never finished! One book down and on to the next, LOL. That's what it's all about though---I'm very grateful we've been able to use the time during the pandemic to be so productive.

I think I developed an appreciation for the written word at a young age. I've always been a reader and loved books such as Little Women and the Trixie Belden Mysteries. Reading was my haven and a very important part of my childhood. It opened new worlds and possibilities for me and I'm extremely grateful for that.

10/13/2021 06:25:12 am

Thank you so much Veronica! Same here! I needed a positive and creative outlet and this series came along at the right time.

Not to mention how cool it is to have someone you can start a phone call with something off the wall and not have to worry about how it or I will be received.

I still have to read some Trixie Belden, I was team Nancy Drew, and loved Little Women and the Little House series.

10/13/2021 08:45:01 am

Well put. Alpha and beta readers are an important part of the process for the indie writer. Asking pointed questions of the beta readers is something that a lot of authors do. Others ask general questions or even none at all.
That is one of the things I like about independent writers, they are in control of their book all along the way. The responsibility for the success or failure of the book is squarely on their shoulders. They decide the what, when, where and how a book is published.
The relationships built over the years are priceless. Even for authors-friends that write in the same genre, they are not competing against each other but only against themselves, to produce the best book possible.
New questions.
Do you reward the alpha/beta readers in any way particular?
Do you have other writers you connect with, as in a critique group or support group?

10/13/2021 10:06:37 am

I send them a signed book and sometimes something more personal, like a candle or something gourmet. It means the world to me that someone used their precious time to support my passion this way. I don’t have a vault, but I do enjoy making my thank you’s personal. Let’s face it the majority of the mail headed our way is not fun, so I try to make them feel special and brighten their day somehow. If I’m lean on the money aspect, I try to comment on their blogs, listen to their podcasts and offer something supportive to help them be seen if they are small business owners or creatives. Community is never one-sided and it’s important to give back, authentically.

As an academic, I have been part of many different kinds of groups and have joined some away from social media as well. Some are helpful, some are not. Ego has to be shelved, in order for all of us to grow. The takeaway for me is to glean whatever truth is on the table and to always try my best to be a positive presence. I’m not here to correct, force my ideas or stifle. I’m here to celebrate the Renaissance and help in any way I can. We rise together.

10/13/2021 08:58:32 am

I always send the beta readers a signed print copy of the book when it releases. I have been known to raid the Cherrywood Hall vault to send a bit of bling as well, LOL. It's a big deal for me that someone takes time out of their busy schedules to read my tales and I very much appreciate it.

I have not participated in critique group to date. For 2022, I do have a goal to connect more with the cozy mystery community (blogs, Sisters in Crime) and participate in their activities. Hopefully, next year we will have some on site workshops and conferences. I need the personal interaction after being relegated to Zooms the past 2 years.

10/13/2021 10:31:58 am

The book gift is greatly appreciated I am certain. We do love books or we wouldn't be involved as deeply as we are. Those little extras are quite meaningful to the recipient also.
I am glad you mentioned the ego thing in regards to a critique group. I have heard horror stories where a published author surrounds himself or herself with unpublished writers and lords it over them, sometimes even disparaging ideas that didn't originate with leading author.
I was in construction for 20 years. The first 5 years as an apprentice. Some journeymen acted in a similar way to the author bully. I had to learn to ask leading questions to get that guy to consider something new. As a journeyman, I enjoyed working with apprentices and hearing their ideas. Those ideas weren't always good, but the discussion of the idea was. Sometimes the apprentice did have a good idea.
New questions.
What is the most important thing you learned from writing and publishing this book?
What are three things, that you wish you knew before you wrote your first book?

10/13/2021 02:35:53 pm

I learned that fear and heartache can be writing fuel. It can cripple us or as creatives, we can use it. The past year and a half has been so epic.

I honestly don't know if I'm ever asked how to describe this era, if I will be able to? It's more than a lot. Every time something worried me or kept me up, I wrote it down. The emotion, and what threatened to overwhelm. My imagination took that kerosene and turned it into plot devices, bad weather and in Tangled Webs, a terrifying ghost who can't seem to differentiate between someone who wronged them and their descendant.

I also learned that my co-writer Veronica has an innate (totally amazing) ability to take in pop-culture and news items about unusual events and is able to turn them into something quirky, brilliant and funny. Funny is a million times tougher to write than scary, I assure you.

Point of view in my first book was a disaster. I began in first and changed it to third and then scrapped it and went back to first. It was ugly. Worse than an itchy sweater with tinsel on it.

Now I understand that POV is integral before you write one word. Why are you choosing this and how will it serve the story? If you can't answer that, accept that you aren't ready to proceed.

I wish I had known that traditional publishing prefers debut authors with NOTHING on the books, unless it's with a literary magazine or an article for novelists. I am sure you have heard of the authors who wrote, self-pubbed and became famous later on with traditional contracts, but that's a tiny, tiny group. That is changing slightly, but they are still two different sides of town.

It sounds silly to say it, but I wish I had known that my family and friends aren't my target audience. I was naive and expected that if I built it, they would come. That part remains to be seen, but people who don't read or enjoy novels, won't read yours either, even if they love you. Fact.

Instead of getting hung up on that, try to find your tribe, try to find readers who will one hundred percent appreciate what you're doing. That is true north, that is sustainable and where you should be looking.

10/13/2021 04:40:14 pm

I think the main thing I learned is how special it is to collaborate with someone on a collection. Bibiana and I were lucky, I guess to have our match work out so well--many collaborations don't. We have similar work ethics and complementary skills and personalities. If you're considering a joint collection or anthology with other authors, make sure your goals and writing visions are in synch for best results.

I realized that Halloween doesn't necessarily equate to including blood gushing horror in your stories. It's also a time to celebrate the beautiful season of fall, let your hair down for a bit and enjoy the times! I like quirky and off the wall books and films (remember Stephen King's Creepshow or Rod Serling's Twilight Zone?). My stories varied from an angry Mother Earth to the decline into madness to a sculpture that....well, let's just say is a bit unusual, LOL.

Finally, it takes a village to get a book published and it's all hands on deck! From book cover designs, marketing materials, promos and that all important editing and proofing, it's so much easier to do if you have a team effort. 🎃

For my first book lessons learned...I wish I would have had an infrastructure in place before I published. I had no social media, no website, knew nothing about the industry or community. I jumped into the writing world a complete newbie.

I've been in full blown catch-up mode since February, 2018 when my first book was published. I'm lucky to be retired and an empty nester--I don't have many of the life constraints others do and can pursue things fulltime.

I've learned which social media platforms work or don't work best for me. I've been able to establish writer/reader relationships with folks all around the world that I'm incredibly grateful to have met (and read/reviewed their works!).

Becoming a writer has been an incredible gift. I learn something new every single day. Patience is a virtue, and believe me, in this career, you better stock up on it, LOL!

10/13/2021 05:05:19 pm

You are both so correct! Identifying your non-audience is just as important as identifying your audience. It is sad when family and friends can't provide some support. We all have limits.
Traditional publishers have one goal, to stay in business. Everything they do serves that goal. It's getting harder and harder for them to make that goal every year.
Infrastructure is so important. Almost every author makes that same mistake in the beginning. It is not surprising, writing a book is quite consuming. Finishing the first draft is most authors' first goal.
Right again, Veronica, after the first draft the village starts to grow, just as you pictured.
New questions.
Do you have a hero, real or fictional?
What are some challenges to writing spooky, short stories?

10/14/2021 05:04:35 am

The family and friends who support and understand what’s important to us are solid gold.

The biggest challenge in writing a spooky and suspenseful short story like what we have in Tangled Webs and our anthology from last year Hearth Fires is time.

The average short story has 5-8 k words and that is not a lot of time to introduce characters, and set the scene before the story is over. I never understood the importance of bullet point structure in a short story until I began studying Bradbury, Poe and Oates. They use the same rules we are utilizing to make these short pieces satisfying, unique and dynamic.

In a novel you have all the time in the world to reveal plot points and the twist, in a short story it’s a sprint to the very end and far more difficult to write on a technical level than novels.

As far as heros of course I do. More than one and too many to list. The older I get the more I admire my elders and my parents for the sacrifices they made for my generation to live a better life.

10/14/2021 09:05:47 am

I think my heroes for the past 2 years have been the people who have risen above the troubled times and did their jobs. First responders, healthcare workers, grocery clerks, delivery drivers, creatives who continued to create, teachers, fire fighters...and many more. They kept the world afloat when so many were seemingly trying to take it down (Politicians, Governments, Celebrities, I'm talkin' to you!?).

My definition of a 'hero' has shifted. A hero isn't a one time, dash and done, wonder. A hero leads by example and perseveres every single day in good times and bad. Find those heroes...

Spooky tale challenges? Finding a topic that is intriguing and giving it a spectral or haunting twist. You need to think outside the box and put those 'what if' scenarios to work, keeping in mind you have around 5000 words to tell it, beginning-middle-end.

I like my stories to be a little different and unexpected from the traditional scary tale themes so that they are remembered. That's the challenge---as a writer, you need to stand out from the pack, giving readers a unique reading experience.

10/14/2021 09:45:20 am

There are many types of heroes, no question about that. Yes, they are too numerous to mention but I do like that short list, Veronica. Most of those heroes keep going to their jobs and serving the public as allowed.
The short length of the short story format is a serious challenge. I have heard from more than one author that it really helps them hone their writing skills.
New questions.
Do you write notes by hand or is it all done on the computer?
What is the most valuable piece of advice you have ever received from another writer?

10/14/2021 02:04:11 pm

I scribble on anything handy. I also send myself strange text messages and emails. It depends on where and when an idea comes. My handwriting is awful, so I tend to type anything I want to be able to decipher and still they can be rather cryptic as they aren’t always a full-fledged idea at that point.

Concerning writing advice from another writer it’s all about writing about what interests you. You will spend an extraordinary amount of time drafting, editing and polishing so as a writer you must truly enjoy the themes or you will have a rough go. I’ve always been fascinated my ancient history, the paranormal and sacred sites like the pyramids and places that may or not exist, such as Atlantis. Perhaps that’s all tied into the mystery of life and perhaps what’s next as well. I’ve always had a vivid imagination and my curiosity never went away. I feel so fortunate to be in this moment, to be able to write and explore those things is incredible and makes me happy.

10/14/2021 10:08:53 am

The majority of my work is on my laptops--I have one upstairs and downstairs to work on. Most of my files are in the cloud, so I can work them from just about any device. I send myself texts (usually at night--a bit of a problem deciphering them the next morning, LOL). I also take loads of pictures to remind me of settings, fashions, food/drinks for a scene. The visuals really help me set the mood. I'm glad to work in a digital world, now I don't have to worry about my horrid handwriting!😬

"If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.” – Toni Morrison

Ms. Morrison's quote has really resonated with me. With my series, I'm always thinking of the topics I'd really like to read about. I love high fashion, royals, film, castle life/elegant living--the finer things (as I imagine them) mixed with mystery & mur-dah most foul.

It's a unique niche, not many books that meet those requirements, that's why I chose to base my series around them. When I find another author who has a series involving my fav things, I'm a life long customer/reader. Find your niche!

10/14/2021 02:25:18 pm

I know what you mean by inscrutable, midnight texts. They can be so hard to decipher. I don't even bother anymore. But I am not a writer also. Several years ago, an author who told me she hears from her muse at 2:30am almost every morning. She wishes her muse would move to a time zone not so far away.
Writing what interests you sounds like great advice. Otherwise it would be hard to write and rewrite the book for a long period of time.
Thanks for sharing that quote. I love it. It holds true in other areas of life as well.
New questions.
You both have published a number of books. You are writing more. Are you writing anything strictly for your own pleasure, not necessarily planning to publish it?
What are common traps for beginning writers?

10/14/2021 06:52:03 pm

Most of the material I write is for the books I publish. I now have three series: My American Almost Royal Cousin Series; Rikkhe St. Claire Hygge & Bisous Holiday Mysteries; and The Haunted Series with Bibiana which includes Tangled Webs. The goal is to write and publish a book in each series per year. That keeps me pretty busy!

I do post a blog each week as well, where I get to do a bit of 'fun' writing to talk about what's going on here on the western front, lol. I also talk about where I am in my writing journey and post a book review for the stories I read each week. It's my writer's diary, nothing too earth shattering but a snapshot of what's happening in my world. I've been featuring some guest posts with authors I follow the past months--it's interesting for me to get the 'stories behind the story'. Enquiring minds want to know!

Common traps for beginning writers? I'd say social media and advertising. Twitter and FB can eat up your time. It's a great place to showcase your works and meet new talent, just watch how much time you spend there....'Tweeting doth not a booketh make!' This applies to more seasoned writers as well...

Be prudent in making your advertising decisions. You can spend an enormous amount of money placing ads that yield zero in book sales. As I mentioned a few questions back, I'm going to the reader platforms to place ads this year, not on the social media platforms. I only have a few years experience with this, but from what I have seen, it has nor paid off in sales IMHO. Know where your audience is and remember, if something sounds to good to be true, it probably has a big catch...

10/14/2021 03:00:51 pm

I always write for pleasure even if I’m publishing, but there are private poems I draft that I probably won’t ever share. They are ironic, and personal.

I share a lot in my writing, but some of it is strictly for me and no one else. Often it’s a way to work through something that’s bothering me or a way to express myself in a safe space. The second you publish anything it isn’t yours anymore in the sense that other people will have opinions, and total access. That’s something to know.

As far as being a newbie. So much advice is out there. It could scramble your brain. The best advice is to learn the art and craft aspects of writing so you will be confident and mindful of style/genre choices as you move forward. It’s important to learn from others and to listen, but it’s also important to realize that you have a special voice and life experience that no one else but you can deliver. I was overwhelmed at first by the deluge of helpful hints and now I take them all with a grain of salt and keep only what will help me grow and improve.

There are industry guidelines for ideal length for short stories, and novels. If you’re an Indie you don’t have to follow them… but you should think about it. They aren’t hard and fast, but a fantasy will have at least 20% more just to build the new world. 800 page books in any genre feels like a stretch unless you’re George R.R. Martin. Then by all means, bring on the dragons.

10/14/2021 04:10:43 pm

If you don't love what you are doing, even in uncomfortable moments, then it is just a job. To love whatever you are doing is priceless!
There are so many well-wishing people who have great advice they benefited from, it certainly can be overwhelming. But what worked for them may not work for another writer. However, your advice to carefully pick what to actually implement is spot on!
New questions.
Do you think a strong ego is an asset or liability for a writer and why?
Can you describe the demographic of your ideal reader? Who is the person most likely to buy your book?

10/15/2021 04:16:41 am

Ego versus confidence is the way I look at being a writer or successful at anything that involves sharing your insight in public spaces. Ego can be a problem when it gets in the way of receiving feedback or halting process in other types of relationships, but confidence is needed to draft, to believe and to move forward.

The difference to me is humility. You have to believe in yourself or you can’t expect anyone else to, but there’s a difference between that and thinking that you are superior just because you exist or have advantages others may not. It’s all in the attitude.

I will always be grateful for every person who has helped me and every creative who has shared this journey as well. Finding the balance between being confident and taking risks will always be a challenge, but a worthy one.

My ideal reader is someone who is bold or wishes they were. Someone who loves the classics, especially the romantics and Victorians. My writing can sometimes lean towards literary, but then I play dress up and use genre to throw some spooky or mysterious shade on it. I always talk about heroines, but they are modern and mystery is always there too.

I write for smart people who sometimes feel alone in a crowd and who wonder about mysterious things. I also write for the travelers. The world is certainly in Tangled Webs and our first book Hearth Fires. I’ve been fortunate to have many adventures. They are in my stories for the readers who long to explore and take chances. Lastly, I write for the dreamers, the people who are curious like Alice and who would walk inside the empty castle or deep into the woods, not because they had to, but because there was a burning desire to understand and to know why.

10/15/2021 08:33:31 am

A strong ego is fine if it pushes you to do your best in your writing journey. You need to believe in yourself, have faith and keep on keepin' on! You are your biggest cheerleader, remember that.

Strong egos who think they know everything and don't take advice or critiques will come crashing down in my experience...

For my cozy series, the primary audience is women (although I think the gents will enjoy this too, lol) who are looking for a mystery escape and enjoy the finer things in life. Most of my sales have been from North America and the UK.

For Tangled Webs and The Haunted Series, again the target audience is primarily female. Our tales are what we classify as 'luxury paranormal' and let you experience a touch of the bizarre in fabulous locations. Sit by the fire with a glass of wine and experience the wonder of Halloween...#Boo!

10/15/2021 09:42:40 am

You are right. Prides goes before a fall. The fall is inevitable.
The inner strength and resolve is needed to see a book through all the steps between first draft to publication.
This gent loves all of your books. Hanging with royals has been interesting and reinforced my view that they are only human also.

10/15/2021 08:17:56 am

Attitude is a major factor in so much of our lives. Humility is a very important characteristic for a mature person to have at any age. You nailed that about believing in yourself. Self-confidence is critical to success at every level. If a writer doesn't have that then they will never write and publish. Strength, self-confidence and vision is necessary to achieve goals.
I love the concept of being bold. No one is born bold, it is something we learn through the experience of making decisions and thriving through the consequences. Every choice has a consequence.
New questions.
Do you have an item or a routine you consider to be your writing lucky charm?
What is the biggest obstacle you face in writing at this time?

10/15/2021 10:10:14 am

I do have a 'few' lucky writing charms scattered around the house...crowns, ornaments and prints that remind me of scenes in my books. I love looking at them and I'm inspired to see where the next tales take me, LOL.

Many of the items were bought at the site of the scenes in my books back in the good ole days when we could travel freely. I'm a big fan of the palace gift shops in the London area!

My biggest writing obstacle at this time is not being able to travel as frequently to get that much needed inspiration. We're taking smaller trips around California that have been fabulous, but I REALLY need a trip overseas. I use our travels to scope out settings, foods and characters for my stories---and cocktails, of course, LOL!

Thank goodness we take loads of pictures--I've really relied on these the past 2 years to get the scene details as accurate as possible. Hopefully the seas and skies will open up in 2022, my #Christmas wish!

10/15/2021 12:36:23 pm

I never thought about it that way. A bold infant would be something, I think that might segue into the terrible threes? Lol. ☕️

I have many rituals. The first one is coffee. That might be the second one too… I have rocks, sea glass and shells I’ve found in remote places back when traveling was so much easier than it is now.

My favorite piece of sea glass ever… I found on a beach in Abaco and it’s the bottom of a Coca-Cola bottle that says “Cuba.” I’m amazed that it made across countless reefs and somehow I found it and brought it home. It makes me think about possibility, connections and what else the ocean carries and to where?

My biggest writing obstacle in writing is keeping it fresh and feeling encouraged, even though as Veronica said travel is part of her process and it’s mine too.

I am planning a huge trip next June, but who knows if I will even be able to do it? So many factors right now to consider. It will be my first trip to Africa and I am so stoked. The stories keep coming and I hope to connect with locals, attend some cultural events and donate books to the local school. We shall see!

Since Tangled Webs is in our second year, ❤️‍🔥 next year’s may have a story from the immersive experience I hope to have. Never say never. I am ready for a real adventure and look forward to sharing it with our readers.

This series was created with that same sense of discovery and adventure for our beautiful, and diverse world. It’s also spooky, eerie and atmospheric. The sort of book I long for this time of year, is exactly what we produced. Many thanks for supporting us in this endeavor. 🕯🕷👻

10/16/2021 09:10:15 am

Keeping it fresh, keeping the inspiration going and the muse happy is hard at this time, with all of the restrictions we have had to endure in the last year and a half.
Having lots of pictures to refresh memories is a wonderful thing. While I am not that fond of Google, their street view on google earth is so helpful for many writers. Being able to see almost any spot on the streets of cities around the world has to be quite useful.
Buying souvenirs and knickknacks can stimulate memories also.
New questions.
Have you thought about publishing a story on Vella, Radish, Wattpad or one of the other episode-based publishing platforms?
Do you struggle with writer's block, if so, how do you overcome it?

10/16/2021 10:28:18 am

I’ve looked at those platforms, especially Vella as it’s the new kid on the block. I’m not sure if it works for what I’m trying to do and I have to put my energy into what makes sense for the time I have. It seems to tilt in favor of YA more than any other genre, but I have seen some mystery writers and time-travel serials do quite well. I am always open to trying new things, so I’m contemplating it but it would be at least next year for me if I dive in. Never say never, say perhaps…

I don’t believe in writer’s block. I feel that the creative mind can slow down or retreat, but 99.9% of the time it’s not the writing. It’s real life and something that needs to be dealt with that hinders, not the project or the words that want to come out.

When I feel like my imagination needs some down time, I take an adventure or read a fantastic book. It helps a lot, and having good friends to chat with helps a lot too.

Oddly, baking bread helps me work through difficult scenes. You get to punch the dough and knead and knead. Everything you do can move your writing forward, you just have to take a deep breath and get out of your own way.

10/16/2021 09:46:24 am

I haven't published on other platforms to date. I am interested in Kindle Vella for potential spin-off ideas I have for my cozy series. I need to learn a bit more about it--selling a book one chapter at a time could be interesting...

I have learned to respect writer's block and give it the time it needs to fizzle out. I've found when I get stuck it's because my little gray cells are telling me it's time to focus on something else for a while. Writing is very focused, intense work. Just like your eyes get strained when they look at a computer screen for too long, your brain gets strained (and drained) as well.

Sometimes all it takes is a walk around the block, other times it can be weeks before the muse takes hold again. I give my writer's block the time it needs to come back willingly and inspired!

10/16/2021 10:53:57 am

What I have heard about those episode platforms is that a writer should have a complete set already written before beginning to post the story pieces. Readers stick with writers they like if a new bit is posted weekly. They seem to like the regularity. It is an interesting concept.
I have heard from more than one author that tackling regular home chores is helpful for getting around a block. I have also heard outdoor activities are very helpful. The theme seems to be stepping back from the project and engaging a different part of your mind.
New questions.
Do you see an advantage of writing under a pseudonym, why or why not?
If you branch out into a different genre, will you use a pen name, why or why not?

10/16/2021 01:13:48 pm

I think if you want to maintain your privacy or try a completely new genre outside of what you usually write a pseudonym could be helpful. The problem in today's digital world is the writer behind the pseudonym is usually found out. Could be a good marketing ploy to get air time explaining why you used a pseudonym--any press is good press, right?

I'll continue to use my real name for future works. I don't see myself branching into any genre that would require additional cover, LOL.

10/16/2021 02:36:59 pm

I discovered a NY Times bestselling author this summer who wrote four, connected novellas and I devoured them. It was obvious to me that she had planned it out 100% before anything was published. It was seamless.

In a serial, it’s even more important to do that and to understand what that kind of audience wants to see and expects. It’s not the same as short stories or novels and that’s important to understand.

If you have a job that is in a conservative sector, like finance or Human Resources, I would imagine that if you wanted to write for example; extreme horror or erotica, it could potentially cause some misunderstandings at some point?

A pen name is a great way of distancing your private life from your public life and career. I haven’t done that, but if some of my more literary work moves to the traditional side, I have considered it to keep it separate from the indie aspect, that people already know. I’m open to doing whatever I need to do to gain more readers and remain true to where I would like go in the future.

10/16/2021 02:49:16 pm

Yes, Veronica, any press is good press, as long as they spell your name right.
Those are good things to keep in mind when considering using a pen name. I know at least one author who wants to keep his private life private, he doesn't even use his face in his Twitter avatar.
New questions.
Are there any issues that are peculiar to writing this genre that might not apply to other genres?
Are there any writing styles or genres that you disliked at first but soon came to like?

10/16/2021 03:37:04 pm

I would say in the paranormal genre it’s important to add a dash of realism to coincide with the surreal or fantastic.

I’ve heard a saying many times that ‘real life happens, but fiction must make sense.’ More so in the paranormal and supernatural genres than anywhere else, as in order to create the illusion of something happening that a logical mind might deny, the writer must offer this “truth” in such a way that the reader can not only accept it, but believe it as well.

Tangled Webs certainly accomplishes that and in each story the conclusion and settings are so different and unique the reader has the opportunity to experience hauntings in more than one form and in amazing locales.

I was a reader before I was a writer and read everything I could find when I was a child and a teen.

My summer of Louis L’amour books was kind of amazing. It rained and rained. I was supposed to be camping and was stuck inside an old Airstream reading someone’s book collection. Extremely great ones I might add.

I’m not opposed to any genre, but my heart lies in writing: gothic, mystery, speculative and paranormal stories.

10/16/2021 03:12:26 pm

For me, writing paranormal mystery is different from my cozy tales in that you take the more 'unbelievable' spectral aspects of the story to the edge. As an example, I feature a ghost in my cozy series--an ancestral aunt that roams the halls of Cherrywood Hall...or does she? She 'shows up' often, via shifting logs in the fireplace to make her opinion known...or is it really just a log dropping? Part of the fun of this character in the cozy tale is sometimes the characters don't quite know how to take her and question if she's real or not. It's a mystery...

On the paranormal side of the house, I think it's imperative to take the reader to the edge with the character when the 'unusual' pops up. The sightings, feelings, apparitions are much more real and many times have evil on their ghostly minds. As a writer, you have the freedom to subject the characters to a more intense, supernatural experience. Real or imagined, the character's lives are changed forever, and not always in a good way.

I'm pretty much open to most genres. I had not read fantasy stories in the past, but have enjoyed many since I joined the writing community on Twitter, as well as jumping into Sci-Fi again after a long break. It's good to branch out and read other genres--it opens up new situations, emotions, character types etc. I always learn something new from reading another genre--that's a good thing!

10/16/2021 04:13:20 pm

We have much in common, I have always loved reading books. I have much reading pleasure in almost every genre. I avoid reading extremely graphic horror, gore and sex. For me, less is more. My imagination can conjure up the best scenes from a couple of hints.
I read a couple of L' Amour books many years ago and enjoyed them both.
I love the spooky aunt who resides in Cherrywood Hall. Her wishes and warnings are hard to decipher. That is an exciting amount of uncertainty that raises the tension just a touch.
New questions.
Do you think reading, watching movies or listening to music help you be a better writer?
At this time, do you read books for entertainment or just research homework?

10/16/2021 04:27:14 pm

For me, definitely all the above. I read at least one new book a week and regularly watch films and listen to music. Educating yourself and learning from what you listen to, watch and read makes for a stronger writer IMHO. A tune can trigger a memory in a character, or a setting you see or read about could have a place in your story. The more you know about and are exposed to, the bigger the portfolio you have to pull from when writing. You want your characters to be multi-dimensional.

I read for fun and research pretty evenly. Most of the books I read are for fun, but I'm online researching different topics every day--so all up reading time is about 50-50. I have purchased travel books and screenwriting/pitch books this year to prepare for some new experiences in 2022. I'm kind of interested to see how they turn out!

10/16/2021 07:05:56 pm

It will probably sound a little loony, but when writing of the invisible world, be it real or imagined sometimes there’s a tension in the air and I notice things. If you believe, you might say writing about the paranormal gets you noticed.

I’ve long believed that ghosts want to be seen, and if that’s true there is an awareness that we are writing and reading about it beyond ourselves. Like I said… might sound loony. Buy me a glass of red wine and I will bend your ear with a few kind of scary things that happened while writing this anthology.

For a long time I misunderstood fantasy. I read a lot of it when I was in my early teens and thought that after Tolkien and C.S. Lewis there wasn’t much of a point. Boy was I wrong!

Recently I’ve fallen for Neil Gaiman and am a huge, forever fan of Isabelle Allende. Both are superb writers of magical realism, which is a sub-genre of fantasy, but rather than being in a different world often they both often choose this one and have amazing things happen to normal people.

10/17/2021 09:28:13 am

That is a good way of putting it, Veronica. The more you take in the more can come out and be useful. As I like to think of it, the more tools you have in your toolbox.
Writing about the supernatural can certainly make one more sensitive to it. That makes a lot of sense, Bibiana. I would love to hear those behind-the-scenes stories. Maybe I will take you up on that offer some time.
I am a solid fan of Tolkien and CS Lewis also. I was given a set of the LOTR in junior high and read the set 3 times before graduating from high school. Did you know Lewis wrote a sci-fi trilogy also? The protagonist, in Out of the Silent Planet, is a philologist fashioned after his good friend JRRT.
New questions.
What type of book is your favorite guilty pleasure to read or listen to for fun?
Have you ever read a book that changed the way you look at writing?

10/17/2021 10:11:34 am

My guilty pleasure is often a book to escape or take a wild ride. I’m reading The Wild Girls right now and it’s a thriller that vacillates between London and Botswana. It has tons of mystery, suspense and an exotic location. Extra credit for relationship issues between a close group of women, who perhaps were once similar but they grew up and changed.

Looking at the past and how much it affects the now is something I often ponder. The drama is preferred when it’s not my own or part of my life. I read a lot of supernatural, mystery and paranormal books as well, being haunted isn’t always from another world.

Sometimes it’s bad choices and where the chips fall.

Negotiating with the Dead by Margaret Atwood is a craft book for writers. I was tasked to read books like this in grad school and lucky enough to be in Indianapolis for the Red Bull Air Races. Whenever they took a break from flying, I read this book and I learned a lot from it. I’ve always been a nerd and carry books and my kindle everywhere with me.

My favorite fiction book right now is Savannah at Midnight by Cathy Maza. I’m a local and am astounded at how well the author distilled the mysterious side of a city I adore. Anyone who loves Savannah would eat this up.

I have also read Mythopoeia by John Dolan and it’s truly unlike any book I’ve ever read. The ties with Greek mythology, archaeology and history are just brilliant.

Veronica

10/17/2021 10:17:11 am

I so agree, Bibiana, Cathy's Savannah at Midnight is an awesome read, perfect for Halloween. You felt as if you were transported to Savannah, walking it's haunting streets, listening for the strokes of midnight--#spooktacular!

10/17/2021 09:52:58 am

My guilty pleasure read is cozy mystery, I just love the tales of this genre. The mystery and danger are tempered with a hot cup of tea or glass of sherry as the tale evolves and clues are uncovered. I love the village life, manor houses, eccentric characters and the human nature observations. Who wouldn't want to visit the towns in Midsomer Murders---note I said visit, the inhabitants tend to be a bit homicidal...😲Life in a microscopic, mystery bubble perhaps, but it's the cozy life for me!

This year I've read one book that definitely changed my outlook on writing; John Dolan's Adventures in Mythopoeia. It's a magnificent read--one that takes you from the absurd realities of life to the end of days with characters, situations and dialogue that is captivating and outrageous at times! I could not put it down and at 842 pages, that is saying something. This book energized me as a writer and highlighted the qualities of a tale well told. One of my best reads for the year, I cannot recommend it enough!

10/17/2021 12:28:18 pm

I’ve learned a lot about cozy mystery from you!🥰 so many real life scenarios can be used in this genre, i for one love Gemma, Aunt Pippa and Figgy! The use of humor is my favorite part. It doesn’t hurt that there are always great cocktails to get over the nerves… what’s next and did that just happen? It’s so much fun!

10/17/2021 11:39:58 am

Those are some great recommendations! I want to read them all. With my reading schedule I don't know when.
The past definitely influences the present in so many ways. A faint smell can trigger powerful memories sometimes. Those memories can be wonderful or otherwise.
We need experience to learn how to make good choices and we get experience from making bad choices because few of us can learn from the mistakes of others. <raising my hand high>
Reading is a delightful experience that is so portable. When I started going to college, I kept a book at home to read, one in my backpack to read on the bus and another at school to read for fun.
New questions.
Would you agree or disagree with the statement: suffering is a requirement to be a good writer, and why?
Do you ever brainstorm with non-writers and if so, is it effective?

10/17/2021 12:37:12 pm

I’m not sure suffering has to be a requirement. Life seems to add that on its own. As a creative it can certainly be fuel to help inform a character’s journey and growth. I do think that there are messages in not always getting what you want in the creative process. Mile markers than can be used to touch emotions and create a bridge between people. I have learned more from the challenges than the triumphs. Everything goes in the blender and that’s what makes literature so powerful.

I talk to people all the time and bounce ideas. Non writers offer a different outlook and a window.

Sometimes the inspiration is accidental, a surprise and becomes something else when I sit down to write. Staying open to ideas and how to use them is pretty cool. Living your life with curiosity and wonder carries it’s own reward.

10/17/2021 06:06:33 pm

I think all human experiences are necessary for writing so that a character's traits, actions and personality can be accurately portrayed and explained. Suffering is one experience. We have all experienced it to varying degrees. My perspective will be different from yours.

If you're describing any emotion, trauma or experience that goes beyond the bounds of your life, that's where research comes in. Read studies, criminal history, interview people etc to expand your knowledge base. Just because something has not happened to you, doesn't mean you can't write about it. Knowing your subject matter is your responsibility. You can always tell when a writer has done the homework.

I do brainstorm with non-writers, LOL. One of my biggest contributors at this time is my niece who is studying to be a nurse. We talk about a lot of topics, most are death related. Enquiring cozy murder minds want to know...

10/17/2021 08:21:03 pm

We all struggle with disappointment and failure in our lives. The hype from Madison Avenue provides unrealistic expectations for us, if we are not very good at that ourselves. I majored in that core in the school of hard knocks. ;-)
Without crushing events and the resultant trauma a lot of stories would be rather boring because it is the overcoming of the trauma and difficult circumstances that gives us mere mortals strength and hope to carry on.
I thank you both and all the other writers who help us to keep on keeping on.
New questions.
What was the best money you ever spent as a writer to enhance your career?
Do you subscribe to any magazines, newsletters, blogs or podcasts that enhance your writing career? Feel free to share as many as you would like.

10/18/2021 07:11:20 am

That's the same school I went to! No wonder!

The best money I ever spent as a writer was on the technology I needed to write, edit and publish the way I want to. I switched from PC to Apple about ten years ago and I couldn't be happier.

I use high-tech software to help make my books beautiful and memory to make book trailers and short video, and I needed something that would not only do the job, but do it well with no frustration. I consider my laptop a warhorse and even gave her a name. We spend an extraordinary amount of time together. :-)

As far as magazines and podcasts I listen to Kore Women Podcast every Tuesday to get my feminine power, Ok Boomer Podcast for laughs and a slice of life from a sisterly duo, and sometimes I listen to Castle of Spirits, if I want to hear a scary ghost story. The episode of the haunted school in Australia... whoa. I just discovered a true crime one called Scottish Murders.

Poets & Writers is an absolute for anyone wanting to know about what's happening in writing world. It has incredible articles and back pages with residencies, contests and more. I love it. Oddly enough I also feel that Vanity Fair, National Geographic and Success Magazine help my writing. Vanity covers an upscale lifestyle featuring amazing people you should know, Nat Geo still has the most beautiful images of wild places and I am connected deeply with nature, lastly Success helps with the business side and has wonderful insight into marketing, customer retention and how to cast your net wider. The book business is tough and it's important to learn every day to improve.

The blog I learn the most from is Kindlepreneur, I also love Veronica's blog for book reviews, positive vibes and travel photos, Jena Henry's for book suggestions and Amy' Reade's for news, books and recipes. I also read Jungle Red Writers, as they are super-savvy about book promotion.

Basically everything I do feeds new ideas, helps me in development or assists in delivering an amazing experience for my readers.

The Haunted Series (Hearth Fires #1, Tangled Webs #2) is not only exciting and imaginative, the paperback books are gorgeous and collectible.Our cover designer Danielle Gregorio is an ace.

10/18/2021 07:16:35 am

By far the best investments I've made to enhance my writing career are to bring in the professionals for editing/proofing; cover design; and technical support for website and seller platform services. It has made the world of difference for my book quality and appeal; infrastructure to support marketing/promos; and ensuring my works are available and stand out on the seller platforms. You will reap the benefits over and over again!

I follow a few cozy mystery blogs and those of my writer friends. Writers Digest and Duotrope are my subscriptions. I'm a member of Sisters in Crime---national & local chapter--they offer webinars and a newsletter each month. My goal is to catch conferences and workshops in 2022 --we'll see how that pans out....

10/18/2021 08:51:11 am

This has been a wonderful and insightful interview. Many thanks to Mark, my co-writer Veronica and all the readers for spending time with us and for celebrating the spooky season with Tangled Webs. Take care out there and have a safe and happy Halloween! ❤️‍🔥🎃🍁📚

10/18/2021 09:39:59 am

Those are great resources, some explicitly for writers and some not so obvious. I haven't seen Success magazine in a long time. I need to look at that again.
Dave Chesson at kindlepreneur.com has a wealth of knowledge about selling on Amazon in particular and other platforms in general. I have links to quite a few of his blogs on my Highly Regarded Blogs page on my website.
Veronica, you have made a good point about how it takes a group of people to put out a quality book after the first draft is written.
Last questions.
What is the easiest part of writing a book for you in general?
What did you buy with your first royalty check?

10/18/2021 09:51:54 am

I think once I get the story idea formed, the dialogue becomes the fun part for me. In my cozy series, I've gotten to know my characters through the years and know their reactions, quirks and personalities. Old and new characters still surprise me, you never know what's going to come out of their mouths in certain situations, LOL. #UhOh

My husband took me out for a lovely dinner to celebrate the first royalty check--luckily he picked up the tab, LOL! It's a special time for a writer--enjoy and celebrate the big checks and small!

Mark and Bibiana, thank you so much for a fabulous week! I've truly enjoyed the exchange--I learn something new every day, the best gift you can receive! 💖👑

10/18/2021 01:15:03 pm

Thank you! Yes, Success magazine is fantastic. When they almost stopped print copies last year, I was totally bummed.

The easiest part of writing a book for me is always the first draft. It's when I have to call off the wild horses, it feels a bit tough. Editing is an integral part of being a writer, but its more about discipline than wild dancing. :-)

V! Your husband has major style! What a gentleman.

My first royalty check went right back into buying books and software. I was fortunate to have a bottle of Prosecco in the fridge already. It was destined for something else, but I'm still glad that I broke the rules that day.

It's been an incredible and fantastic week with you both.

What can I say?

Next year when we write the 3rd year? Same channel, same place. I can't think of a better way to spend my time. Thanks again and much appreciation for all I have learned from you both, from this week and beyond. Have a wonderful afternoon. Take care out there.

10/19/2021 08:05:41 am

Thank you both so much for being not just fabulous guests on the word refiner channel but also for being wonderful writers and sharing your gift with the world.
Until next time, keep on writing.

10/19/2021 09:05:29 am

Thank you so much, Mark! Wishing everyone a #spooktacular Halloween and a very Happy Holidays! 💖👑

Tangled Webs (The Haunted Book 2) By Bibiana Krall and Veronica Cline Barton

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