All posts by Angie J

Writers on the River Attending Author

#WOTR24 #AuthorSpotlight #AttendingAuthor – Sophie Stern/L.C. Mortimer

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Sophie Stern

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Sophie Stern – I love writing stories as much as I love reading! Ever since I was a kid, I’ve been obsessed with books and fictional characters. I first got hooked on reading with The Boxcar Children, and then I read The Babysitter’s Club Little Sister, The Babysitter’s Club, Dear America, and Sweet Valley High. The best thing about books is that you can reread them a hundred times and always experience something new and different.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

The first book is always hardest for me because you’re setting everything up and have to balance what to include in the first book versus what comes later.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I think when you dive into a new set of characters, you naturally explore the relationship through a fresh lens, so it’s something that happens naturally as you write. Each character has their own backstory and interests, so their story will naturally be different.

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Learn as much as you can, but mostly focus on just writing that first book. The writing really is the hardest part!

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

8-10 hours

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

Every character is my favorite, but lately I’ve been really connecting with Melody from “Sweet Nightmares: The Vampire’s Melody.” She’s feisty and brave and doesn’t let anything keep her down.

What is your definition of success?

Living a peaceful, happy life.

What are your social links?

http://facebook.com/sexysophiestern,

http://instagram.com/dontdatedemons,

http://twitter.com/sexysophiestern

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

For a one-stop link, this will work: https://sexysophiestern.com/Shop/ (It has updated links to all of the retailers where my books are located!)

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2024?

They are available starting November 6th at Writersontheriver.com

$75 VIP Plus – 11-12 Lunch with the Authors , 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Limited Quantity expected to sell out first day*

$50 VIP -12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Expected to sell out first day*

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party. *Expected to sell out opening day*

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Audio Book

#Audio #biography #parentalabuse #celebrity – The Woman in Me by Britney Spears, narrated by Michelle Williams

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The Woman in Me by Britney Spears

“In Britney Spears’s memoir, she’s stronger than ever.” —The New York Times

The Woman in Me is a brave and astonishingly moving story about freedom, fame, motherhood, survival, faith, and hope.

In June 2021, the whole world was listening as Britney Spears spoke in open court. The impact of sharing her voice—her truth—was undeniable, and it changed the course of her life and the lives of countless others. The Woman in Me reveals for the first time her incredible journey—and the strength at the core of one of the greatest performers in pop music history.

Written with remarkable candor and humor, Spears’s groundbreaking book illuminates the enduring power of music and love—and the importance of a woman telling her own story, on her own terms, at last.

Goodreads

Review by Twinsie Angie

I purchased this audio book.
I will start this by saying I have a hard time rating someone’s biography. I read this book at the end of November and sat on it for a few days trying to figure out what I could say.
I know the “Truth” has 3 sides : Yours, Mine, and the actual events.
I know that there are questions about if she really wrote the book, and to that I say I think she did. I felt like, when I listened to the audio, it sounds like how she talks. This book was not written by huge, published author for sure. It is written like how I do my reviews…wordy, jumbly, and like purging on the paper. I knew it wouldn’t be a literary masterpiece, so I am not knocking it at all. But I think it is her version of events.
I think that even if 1% of what she claims about her dad, mom, and sister are true, they are horrible people. I say that based on what I listened too. I always thought Brit and her mom were tight. I don’t know why but I was shocked to hear different from her telling.
Boy oh boy the things she said about JT. Am I shocked? Not really given what happened with Janet and how he threw her under the bus after the Superbowl. Am I shocked at how it all went down when they broke up according to her, yes.
Do I feel for her and her PPD and the treatment of her family to control her money? 110%. The fact no one looked at her after having 2 babies back-to-back is heartbreaking. The fact she has been traumatized by her family for her money under the guise of love and care is horrible.
Again, I am taking what SHE knowing that it can and probably does have a slight spin to it.

Britney Jean Spears (born December 2, 1981) is an American singer, dancer, songwriter, actress and author. She has sold over 83 million records worldwide according to Zomba Label Group. The RIAA ranks her as the eighth best-selling female artist in American music history, having sold 32 million albums in the U.S. Her success as a recording artist has allowed her to work in other media; she has acted in film and television, has written two books, and has been contracted to endorse several products, including her own perfume line.

Spears released her debut album …Baby One More Time in 1999, propelling her to international stardom. It spawned the Billboard topping single “…Baby One More Time”. She released her second studio album Oops!… I Did It Again in 2000 with continued success. A third album Britney was released in 2001, followed by the release of her fourth album In the Zone in 2003. The album’s breakout single “Toxic” won Spears her first Grammy Award. After the release of a remix album/greatest hits collection, she released her fifth album Blackout in 2007.

As a result of her fame, Spears’s personal life has received much media attention. This only escalated after her marriage to Kevin Federline in 2004. She gave birth to her first child, Sean Preston, in 2005 and to her second child, Jayden James, in 2006. The couple’s divorce in November of the same year was highly publicized, followed by an ongoing custody battle over their sons.

Writers on the River Attending Author

#WOTR24 #attendingauthor #Authorspotlight #eventsponsor – Miranda Lynn

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Miranda Lynn

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Miranda Lynn…and at this point I think you know it all. Nine year signing author, wotr family member, chaotic, unorganized, can’t keep my brain on a singular task these days. Getting my writing mojo back and ready to bring new characters, worlds, genres, and much more to the world. Still looking for a pet dragon, and that ever elusive perfect cup of coffee. (the darker the better baby) My collection of coffee mugs keeps growing and my space for them is getting smaller. Throw in a few grunt style shirts, my favorite lady on my hip, and a hubby who loves going to the range with me and I think that may be a few things that people still might not know about me.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

The first book because I want to share ALL the stuff about ALL the characters at once. oh the first draft of a first in series sucks balls.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

sometimes taking a break helps for me anyway. I try to place each couple in a different situation with in the whole set of tropes my readers love. I’ll read a book, watch a few movies, and bounce ideas of fellow writers and hubby. then i’ll jot down notes and what characters they pertain to. When that slows down I know I’m getting close to wrapping a series up. (more to share on that later next year)

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Use what you know but take breaks. Get the words out, let it rest, and then revise. Journal about your day, what issue you may have used emotionally in your writing and let the stress of it go as much as possible.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

My goal is 4 hours, currently with everything going on I’m happy to get 1 hr a day. Hopefully by the time you get to read this I’ll be back up to 4 hours.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

I do, but I actually have one in the wings that I like better. She’s a patient, sneaky, and super intelligent character with a past and a secret that could get her killed.

What is your definition of success?

This is hard as for everyone it’s different. I have different levels of success, 1st was people actually reading my books, then those people becoming fans and reading everything, getting recognized in a random elevator like a celebrity. My next major success goal is to not only make this a career of passion but an actual career that can financially support me. Or at least my half of the household. 🙂

Do you have anything you want to share that didn’t fit on one of these questions?

Not really, but it’s almost midnights and my brain stopped working about two hours ago.

What are your social links?

https://linktr.ee/AuthorMirandaLynn

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

https://mirandalynn.com/my-books/

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2024?

They are available starting November 6th at Writersontheriver.com

$75 VIP Plus – 11-12 Lunch with the Authors , 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Limited Quantity expected to sell out first day*

$50 VIP -12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Expected to sell out first day*

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party. *Expected to sell out opening day*

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Writers on the River Attending Author

#WOTR24 #attendingauthor #Authorspotlight #eventsponsor – Andi Lawrencovna

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Andi Lawrencovna

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Writing as Andi Lawrencovna. I’m a fantasy and romance author who does a lot of fairy tale retellings. I am a cover addict with no shame, collecting them with a passion. My favorite original fairy tale is Beauty and the Beast but of “my” retellings it would be about Captain Hook.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

I always think the middle one is the hardest. I usually know where I’m going to start and how I’m going to end, but getting there is the issue. Whether book to book or a series as a whole.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I try to write what I would like to read. Not that I by any means have any finger on the pulse of what’s popular, but I always figure: there’s someone out there for every story, so I write for the readers who are like me.

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

For sure! Write what you want, not just what you know. I was always told write what I know…but I write fantasy, so who knows any of that?!? But write what you love, and you have an audience that will love every story you come up with, even if it’s just you. Don’t let that discourage you. Just find what you love most!

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

Not nearly enough!!! I wish I wrote more everyday but I think it’s important not to punish myself if I don’t write enough. I think finding a way to be creative can be more useful than anything else sometimes.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

I’m cheating…ALLL OF THEM! Each for a different reason but mostly because I just love being able to create and shape the characters I would want to be with. To have a conversation with. Or get caught in an ambush and fight for survival with…probably because I’m pretty sure they’re all WAYYY braver than me and definitely more competent with a sword.

What is your definition of success?

Doing something that you can be proud of and can stand behind.

What are your social links?

Website: https://www.AndiLands.com
Newsletter Sign Up: http://bit.ly/2QfXEy6
Amazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/2DT7EWT
Facebook: http://bit.ly/2tqwusn
Facebook Fan Page: http://bit.ly/2TW4xUQ
Twitter: http://bit.ly/2U1pyOh
MeWe: http://bit.ly/2tsb2TK
Pinterest: http://bit.ly/2SFw0h0
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2V7v4il
LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/2SI3Odr
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2GwZVl4
Bookbub:  http://bit.ly/2YCv6Vr
AllAuthor:  http://bit.ly/2PP18rU

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)


Amazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/2DT7EWT  

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2024?

They are available starting November 6th at Writersontheriver.com

$75 VIP Plus – 11-12 Lunch with the Authors , 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Limited Quantity expected to sell out first day*

$50 VIP -12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Expected to sell out first day*

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party. *Expected to sell out opening day*

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Writers on the River Attending Author

#WOTR24 #attendingauthor #Authorspotlight – Genevieve Jack

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Genevieve Jack

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

I’m Genevieve Jack, author of paranormal romance and fantasy romance. I live in central Illinois with a fur-buddy who likes to help me write and a husband who doesn’t. I drink a lot of coffee, love the outdoors, and aliens scare the bejeebus out of me.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

First book. My worlds are biiiig and all of that groundwork has to be laid in book one. Also, as a writer, we do all the work upfront and there are no guarantees the book will be popular with readers. If you already have a popular book 1, it becomes much easier to invest more time and energy into later books.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

Sex. Tons of sex. That’s just a little writer humor there. No seriously, I try to bring fresh characters and tropes to every new book. None of my books are the same. I’m confident any of my readers would back me up on that. Even in the same series, the characters and circumstances keep things fresh.

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Find a tin man, a scarecrow, and a cowardly lion to make the journey with you. If you remember from the story, each of those characters already had everything they needed to complete their journey, and so do you. You’ve been telling stories and consuming stories in one way or another since the day you were born. If you want to write, write. Every day. And keep going until you finish. You can clean it up when you’re done. This job is one you can only learn by doing.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

4 hours. I work a full day but the rest is spent on admin activities.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

Seven from the His Dark Charms duet. The sexy billionaire can wield luck and there just isn’t any other character like him in paranormal romance.

What is your definition of success?

Having enough to take care of the people and animals I love and contribute to the community.

Do you have anything you want to share that didn’t fit on one of these questions?

You can never have too many friends or too many books.

What are your social links?

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGenevieveJack/
https://www.instagram.com/authorgenevievejack/
https://www.tiktok.com/@genevievejackbooks

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

https://linktr.ee/authorgenevievejack

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2024?

They are available starting November 6th at Writersontheriver.com

$75 VIP Plus – 11-12 Lunch with the Authors , 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Limited Quantity expected to sell out first day*

$50 VIP -12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Expected to sell out first day*

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party. *Expected to sell out opening day*

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Writers on the River Attending Author

#WOTR24 #attendingauthor #Authorspotlight – Mellanie Szereto

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Mellanie Szereto

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

I’m Mellanie Szereto, the USA Today Bestselling Author of nearly fifty romcoms and contemporary romances, most with characters who have plenty of life experience like myself. Whether you call them older, seasoned, mature, experienced, or later-in-life protagonists, they deserve love too! My stories are often set in small towns with quirky main characters, fun secondary casts, and lots of humor. I enjoy gardening, cooking, and baking—as well as hiking to work off the fruits of my labor—and incorporate food into all of my stories. I live in an old farmhouse in rural Indiana with my husband of thirty-seven years.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

The first book is usually the quickest to write, but ideas for additional stories often develop as the first one progresses. That’s why I have dozens of books on my to-write list!

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I love writing series. I focus on getting to know each character as an individual, like real people. They have their own personalities, quirks, strengths, weaknesses, etc. Those elements help me discover their motivations, their conflicts, and the tropes that fit their situations best.

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Writing is mostly a solitary career, so find a supportive group of writer friends. They’ll understand your struggles and celebrate your wins with you.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

I’m a workaholic. That means I usually spend 10-12 hours a day writing and/or doing writing-related tasks every day of the week. Breaks in that routine tend to interrupt my process, so I try to schedule vacations right after my scheduled deadlines.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

I adore Dr. Carson Hines from The Nerd Next Door. He’s a lovable nerd beneath his football player physique and the slightly cocky persona he wears to fit in. Despite being focused on his career (geneticist), he makes room in his life for the woman he falls for and her daughter. Even better, he can admit when he makes a mistake and is willing to accept the consequences.

What is your definition of success?

While making a living at writing is always my goal, I feel most successful when readers tell me they love my books!

What are your social links?

Newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/mellanieszereto
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authormellanieszereto
Facebook reader group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/worththewaitseasonedromancereaders
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mellanie-szereto
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/mellanie_szereto
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mellanieszereto

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/mellanieszereto
Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/author/mellanie-szereto/id540431015
Audible: Audible page: https://www.audible.com/author/Mellanie-Szereto/B00GYKKZ7I
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Mellanie Szereto
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/author?id=Mellanie+Szereto
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/author/mellanie-szereto

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2024?

They are available starting November 6th at Writersontheriver.com

$75 VIP Plus – 11-12 Lunch with the Authors , 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Limited Quantity expected to sell out first day*

$50 VIP -12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Expected to sell out first day*

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party. *Expected to sell out opening day*

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Age Gap, Rockers

#WOTR24 #NewRelease #ReleaseDay #Toxic #Rockstar #AgeGap – Verses book 1 of Rocky Mountain Rockstars by Jade C. Jamison

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Kyle and I…we always seemed inevitable.

After getting kicked out of my house at sixteen, my boyfriend Kyle’s family took me in. And the two of us, with his brother at the helm and two other friends, formed Intent to Murder, a hard rock band with dreams of a bright future. We play local bars and gain a small following but never get off the ground.

When one of our band members dies of an overdose, everything changes.

I’ve been ignoring the fact that Kyle and I aren’t yin and yang, meant to complement and fulfill each other; we’re oil and water, destined to never mix. Together, we’re volatile.

So when we finally recruit Wolf, an older man who plays guitar, to replace our deceased friend, the band starts to heal. We become better than before.

Meanwhile, I figure out Kyle’s not right for me.

That doesn’t mean Wolf is, either…but he seems to get me, to understand what makes me tick.

And I find myself dreaming about his chiseled body. Thinking about him all the time. Finding ways to share stolen moments with him.

It doesn’t matter that he’s probably not the right guy, either.

And when we finally kiss, he tells me he’s too old for me. He’s not boyfriend material. He wouldn’t treat me right.

But I don’t believe him.

Maybe I should.

Because I might have to make a choice between the fame I want and the love I think I need…because I probably don’t deserve to have either.

Goodreads

Amazon

Review by Twinsie Angie

Verses book 1 of Rocky Mountain Rockstars by Jade C. Jamison

I was given this book by the author for an honest review.

I love the rockstar worlds Jade writes.  Her Bullet series is one of my favorites of all time.  When she sent the ARC for this book, the blurb made my heartbeat.  I mean it sounded like a great toxic love story for sure.  Toxic for sure it was….sigh a good old rip your heart out story.  LOL

Hayley and Kyle….man these two.  They were high school sweethearts who grew up, used drugs together, and loved but they loved in a not so great way.  She was kinda terrible and he was just the same.  When the story starts out, we see the toxic relationship from the jump.  The couple seem to be together just because they have always been together and is expected to be together???  Anywho, they are also dealing with the loss of the leader of their band.  They are left with 2 others struggling to figure out what to do.  Hayley starts to chat with the bartender and *Gasp* does he flirt with her???  As time moves on and he joins the band, GASP he is still flirting with the newly SINGLE Hayley.

Wolf/Miles is a good guy.  I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop. He says he isn’t a but he sure the crap is as far as I was concerned.  He was everything Hayley needed. She was everything he needed too. The age gap was his “push” away but once they got all the cards on the table, It was GO TIME!!!

I really enjoyed the couple. He stood up for her LOTS of time and let her see she is worth more then she gives herself credit for.  He also helps her see things for what they are and to accept that sometimes it just is what it is.  Hayley showed Miles that not all women are like his past relationships and she is the genuine person he has always claimed her to be.

THEN right when I couldn’t love him anymore, Wolf was an asshat and then Kyle starts to sniff around.  I was like hella no.  I am with my girl Hayle and gonna stay single and heart guarded forever…..and then Wolf is back…and again I am swooning because damn it Miles I love you!!!!

I cannot wait for the next book….best friends sister…oooof Pedro is gonna have some issues!!

1. Dream 2. Play some music 3. Write 4. Blow readers away 5. Repeat

Jade C. Jamison is a steamy romance author, heavy metal fangirl, wife and mom, coffee connoisseur, cat lover, and vegan foodie–not necessarily in that order. She loves life and believes we learn our wisest lessons when reading, especially fiction. Her heroines are fierce, her heroes all but broken, both seeking redemption together. Whether those books are set in a small Colorado town or big city, she strives to take her readers’ breath away…one story at a time.

Find out more at www.jadecjamison.com OR
http://www.subscribepage.com/JadeCJam… (newsletter)

Writers on the River Attending Author

#WOTR24 #attendingauthor #Authorspotlight – Susan Stoker

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Susan Stoker

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Susan Stoker. What to tell? I’m a normal, average chick who lives with her codependent dog. I’ve been married for 23 years and met Mr. Stoker online! He was in the military and we’ve lived in….um…yeah, lots of places. We’re currently in Maine, which I freaking love! (And yes, I realize it gets cold here…but it’s a constant 72 degrees in my basement, so it’s fine!) I love my job, love using my imagination to write stories, and feel so thankful that readers seem to love the same kinds of books I like to write.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

Usually the ones after it. Most of the time I have a “great” idea for book 1, then have to figure out what to do with the rest of the books. I usually then get into my stride and come up with great twists for the rest of the series, but it can be daunting to start that second book.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

Every book is a new adventure. Different characters, different personalities. I have a good imagination and think of different situations and how I would want MY Hero to act in them…and write it! HA! But honestly, I like the comfort of writing similar stories…kidnappings, military, good men, strong normal average women…it’s my crack.

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Don’t give up. Write what you want to write not what people tell you that you should write. Celebrate the victories along the way. Don’t compare yourself or your journey to others.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

If I’m writing a book probably around 3-4 hours.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

This is such a hard question. I don’t have a favorite character because they’re all born from my imagination. I want to see myself in all of my heroines and of course my “ideal” man would be each of my heroes. But I do love Wolf (Protecting Caroline), and Baker (Finding Jodelle). And…Tex! (Finding Melody and countless other books…he’s my go-to computer genius)

What is your definition of success?

Love who you are. Love what you do. Wake up each day and find one positive thing to think about. Be kind.

Do you have anything you want to share that didn’t fit on one of these questions?

I just want to thank all the readers out there. As an author, I literally couldn’t do what I do without you. Thank you for your positive emails and messages.Thank you for your reviews. Just thank you for being a romance reader!

What are your social links?

www.facebook.com/authorsstoker (friend page)
www.twitter.com/susan_stoker
www.facebook.com/authorsusanstoker (Like page)
www.goodreads.com/SusanStoker
www.amazon.com/author/susanstoker
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/susan-stoker
www.instagram.com/authorsusanstoker

@susanstokerauthor

https://www.stokeraces.com

Email: Susan@stokerAces.com
Newsletter Sign Up: www.StokerAces.com/contact-1.html

Facebook Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SSStalkers
Facebook Fan Fiction Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SpecialForcesWorld/
Online Store: shop.stokeraces.com

Aces Press Fan Fiction website: https://www.acespress.com

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

As my 100th book was published in Nov, I have way too books to mention. But my website (www.stokeraces.com) has links to all my books on all the platforms, all my audio books, and my online store where you can get signed hardbacks, paperbacks, and other cool swag!

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2024?

They are available starting November 6th at Writersontheriver.com

$75 VIP Plus – 11-12 Lunch with the Authors , 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Limited Quantity expected to sell out first day*

$50 VIP -12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Expected to sell out first day*

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party. *Expected to sell out opening day*

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Writers on the River Attending Author

#WOTR24 #attendingauthor #Authorspotlight -Audrey Simmons

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Audrey Simmons

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Hi! I’m Audrey Simmons. I write primarily write fantasy with a dash of romance and under a pen name I write steamy romantasy (though I have yet to publish under that name). I’m also an artist so when I’m not writing, I’m drawing character art and fantasy maps. I have an adorable tree frog and two fluffy kitties and all of them can be very loud at times. I’m sure they just want to help me write.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

Honestly, it largely depends on the story and which book, first or sequels, I’m working on at the time.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

My various series being fantasy/romantasy means the whole thing is one long story following one main character and so far they’ve just naturally progressed without much worry about things getting stale. Having beta readers stick around for the whole journey also really helps though.

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Don’t feel bad about taking breaks. Refilling the creative well is important. Hanging out with friends, going to a museum, watching a movie, talking a walk out in nature are all things I like to do to refill the well. Making new experiences is a great way to get inspiration.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

In theory I spend at least five hours writing but I also have focus issues so in actuality who knows.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

I absolutely love the male love interest in what will be my pen name debut but it’s not published yet so I’ll say Hemi from my Child of Prophecy series. He’s just so cheerful and laid back. He’s such a joy to write.

What is your definition of success?

At one point success was publishing a book, and then it was selling 100 copies. I’ve accomplished both now which I guess means I need a new definition. I think finishing my first series will be my next goal for success.

Do you have anything you want to share that didn’t fit on one of these questions?

I’m excited to come back to Writer’s on the River. It was a ton of fun last year talking to people and sharing a love of books. If all goes according to plan, I’ll have my first actual romance book with me too.

What are your social links?

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorAudreyS, Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authoraudreysimmons/, Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/authoraudreys.bsky.social, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorAudreySimmons, Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22337899.Audrey_Simmons, Andrea Marie Johnson (pen name) Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorAndiMarie, Andrea Marie Johnson (pen name) Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/authorandimarie.bsky.social

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

Author Home Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Audrey-Simmons/author/B09W5XSG55,

Child of the Moon universal link: https://books2read.com/u/m2QPW6,

Child of the Forest universal link: https://books2read.com/u/3Ljdp7

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2024?

They are available starting November 6th at Writersontheriver.com

$75 VIP Plus – 11-12 Lunch with the Authors , 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Limited Quantity expected to sell out first day*

$50 VIP -12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Expected to sell out first day*

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party. *Expected to sell out opening day*

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Writers on the River Attending Author

#WOTR24 #attendingauthor #Authorspotlight #eventsponsor -AJ Renee

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A.J. Renee

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Hi, I’m AJ Renee. I’m a romance author, mom, and Air Force wife. We currently live in Virginia. I love relaxing with a good book, binging a show, or playing a video game.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

The first and last books are the hardest. The first requires a lot of building but the last needs to make sure it feels fresh.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I try to use real life. Twist things up and spit them out all shiny and new.

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Keep going, don’t stop, even if you only do it for yourself.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

When I can focus, about three hours with about two to three breaks.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

The first one, Sofia in Widower’s Aura. She will always have the favorite spot as she was created to offer a friend who’d passed her happily ever after.

What is your definition of success?

When I figure it out, I’ll let you know.

What are your social links?

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2024?

They are available starting November 6th at Writersontheriver.com

$75 VIP Plus – 11-12 Lunch with the Authors , 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Limited Quantity expected to sell out first day*

$50 VIP -12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included. *Expected to sell out first day*

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party. *Expected to sell out opening day*

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.