Jun 30, 2025 | Interviews
Today, we’re talking with Ann Fairway about her book, The Big Day Deceit
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I’m a serious jigsaw-puzzle obsessive—particularly the 3D kind. My spare bedroom is basically “Puzzle Central,” complete with my entire Wrebbit collection—foam models of famous buildings—proudly displayed and often in various stages of completion. When I’m not writing or self-publishing, I’m literally building worlds with foam bricks… or, you know, foam puzzle bricks. 😉
Why do you write?
Writing has always been my personal mental filing system—a way to bring order to the chaos swirling around me. But in 2020, something deeper shifted. Like everyone, I was “worried sick,” and the year felt defined by fear and uncertainty. Instead of letting it define me, I decided to redefine the year—I would launch my fiction-writing journey. With zero experience in publishing, I still chose to become a writer, determined to remember 2020 not just for illness, but for possibility and creation.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
The spark for my latest novel came from one simple, cinematic “what if?”: a fake bride hidden behind the veil while the real one runs away. I’ve always loved rom‑coms brimming with fake relationships and pretend engagements—where spending time together under false pretences reveals real feelings underneath. That moment when pretending morphs into something much deeper is irresistibly romantic—and exactly what I wanted to explore in my story. I leaned into that magic: two people forced together, hiding secrets—and perhaps discovering something genuine beneath all the lies.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
I adore the versatility of rom‑coms—and of course, their inevitable happy endings. As both a reader and a writer, I crave escapism: diving into stories you wouldn’t want to live in real life, but absolutely feel—those early sparks, the butterflies, the heartbreak (which always feels awful, even though we know it’ll be resolved). There’s something magical about being completely in sync with the protagonists, rooting for every laugh, tear, and stolen kiss.
How would you describe your writing process?
I’m a planner… with a healthy respect for chaos. 😅 I like to build a solid foundation—especially for my characters. For my current WIP, I spent several evenings exploring their backstories and emotional arcs to really understand who they are and who they want to become. Then I mapped out a detailed outline with about 100 scenes (I work in scenes, not chapters, since they tend to move around like unsupervised toddlers).
But once I start drafting? That’s when the characters take over. A recent example: I’d planned a scene where my male protagonist casually warns the heroine about a guy she’s about to meet. Simple, right? Except he decided to stand in the pouring rain and invent dramatic lies just so she wouldn’t go. So yes—I plan… but I’ve learned to expect a few emotional detours along the way.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
That direct connection in a digital world—hands down. It’s how we get to know our readers not as numbers in a publisher’s spreadsheet, but as Joanne with the pink hair or Mia with triplets—real people who love books for all the wonderfully personal reasons we do.
And of course… advertising. Let’s be honest: without social media, how would an indie author like me ever reach the readers who live for fake brides and wedding shenanigans? It opens doors that used to be bolted shut.
What advice would you have for other writers?
Write the book. Don’t obsess over perfection—just get it out there. Publish it, breathe, and then start the next one. It’s always easier to let go of the second once your first book-baby is out in the world.
You’ll learn so much from doing it the first time—what worked, what didn’t, and what you’ll absolutely do differently next time. And hey, if you’re smarter than I was, you might even start building your audience from day one. I didn’t… but I’ve definitely taken notes for the next round!
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
Research, research… or pure magic. Sometimes a title just finds me—like with my current WIP (no spoilers, sorry!). Other times, it’s hours of wordplay, brainstorming, and Googling to avoid duplicating something wildly popular. I always aim for something memorable and just a little bit intriguing.
For covers, I’m all about fit and function. I use tools like K-lytics to see what’s trending in the categories I’ll be marketing in, and make sure my cover speaks directly to the right kind of reader. It’s not just about looking pretty—it’s about promising the right story.
Fun fact: The Big Day Deceit was originally going to be called something completely different… but I kept forgetting what it was. Figured if even I couldn’t remember it, it probably had to go. 😉
What’s your next step?
It’s a twofold adventure! On one side, I’m deep into the first draft of my next novel—still playing with hidden identities and strong protagonists in their forties who deserve another shot at love. This time, the drama unfolds in a familiar local pub in Reading. There’s no cosy cottage, but there is a golden retriever named Mentos, so I’d say that’s a fair trade.
At the same time, I’m eagerly waiting for the special edition print of The Big Day Deceit—hardcover, coloured edges, gorgeous paper—the works. I’ll be selling it through TikTok Shop and maybe Etsy too. Since I also have a day job, I’ve learned to pace myself (even when my brain wants to do all the things). Audiobooks and translations are on the wishlist… but they’ll have to queue up behind reality.
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
Like a kid in a candy store—I drop everything to read it. I genuinely love finding out what readers connected with… and what didn’t quite land. Who better to help me grow than an honest reviewer? Whether it’s praise or constructive feedback, I see every review as a little signpost helping me become a better storyteller.
FIND ANN’S BOOK ON AMAZON
May 27, 2025 | Interviews, Non Fiction, Self Help
Today, we’re talking with Kristine Georgia about her book, Healing My Anger
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I left an emotionally abusive relationship five years ago and I have been researching, healing and growing and learning so many wonderful paths to happiness.
Why do you write?
I found some healing methods that work really well for me. They are so unusual, that I have a great motivation to share them with the world. The ability to heal alone without needing medicine, therapy or support has radically changed my life and I hope it will change yours also.
What makes your book unique?
Finally, there is a book which addresses the root cause of anger – and promises complete healing. Healing My Anger is a deeply personal and emotionally honest exploration of what lies beneath our anger. Rather than offering surface-level techniques for managing frustration, the book gently reveals that anger is often a mask for something much more tender – grief that has never been fully felt.
With great compassion, it outlines a process that honors emotions rather than suppressing them. Readers are guided through the emotional layers – starting with anger, then moving into fear, and finally reaching grief. At the heart of it all is a belief that healing is possible when we allow ourselves to feel what we’ve spent years avoiding.
It suggests that grief is a doorway to freedom. By stepping through it, we can uncover a more authentic self, one no longer ruled by past wounds, but grounded in peace, clarity and truth.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
When I faced an angry husband. When I felt alone in the world. I knew there were answers and I am so grateful that healing is available to all of us.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
I love being happy. I love the process of learning and changing to be a better human with the skills to make the world a better place.
How would you describe your writing process?
Sometimes, I seek quiet thoughtful moments to envision the story, then I just sit down and type.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
Targeting people who may be seeking certain types of information or seeking certain groups can get together easily and help each other learn and grow.
What advice would you have for other writers?
Find something that inspires you and write.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
Some reviews have helped me select book covers. They have distilled the most meaningful part of the book into a phrase that can be captured by an image.
What’s your next step?
I intend to keep writing to assist people find answers to many different issues in their life.
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
I love when people describe my book as eye-opening, life-changing and helpful. I just hope that their life will become better for reading it.
FIND KRISTINE’S BOOK ON AMAZON
May 27, 2025 | Interviews, Action & Adventure, Crime
Today, we’re talking with Bob Adamov about his book, Breakwater Bay
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I worked for an Arlington, Virginia defense contractor in the intelligence sector.
Why do you write?
It’s a dream I’ve had since I was 8-years-old.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
An island friend of mine had suggested the topic. Other friends offered suggestions. Next thing I knew, it all came together.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
I’ve always been a Clive Cussler fan of action/adventures. Meeting Clive and seeing that he read/endorsed one of my books was absolutely thrilling. Then I spoke at several of his collectors’ conventions.
How would you describe your writing process?
It starts with an idea, then the concept is fleshed out. I create a rough outline to follow as I create the journey of adventure.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
It helps build a fan base. Many of my readers have become friends over my nearly 25 years of writing. We also host Coconut Commando parties where readers and the real characters from my books mingle. It’s a fun-filled event!
What advice would you have for other writers?
Do it! It doesn’t get written unless you sit down and do it.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
They just pop up! I usually have an idea and create a rough cover design before giving it to my graphics guy for his masterful touch.
What’s your next step?
Working away on the next 3 books.
What book do you wish you had written?
Tom Sawyer.
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
I’m always appreciative. They bring a smile to my face.
FIND BOB’S BOOK ON AMAZON
May 15, 2025 | Mystery, Interviews, Thriller
Today, we’re talking with David Pearson about his book, The Farmyard Mystery
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I have written twenty-five crime fiction novels set in Ireland, published since 2018. Before writing crime fiction, my job entailed writing very long and detailed procedural manuals for the financial services industry for licensing purposes. I also wrote for an IT trade magazine in the 1980s. But neither of these led me into crime fiction novels. I’m a keen amateur photographer, and love shooting landscapes in the West of Ireland. It’s a very special place to me.
Why do you write?
The ideas keep flowing – I have a need to put them down on paper and share them with readers.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
From the beautiful scenery around Westport in Connemara. The locale is a character in all of my books, and adds to the story.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
There’s an endless font of ideas available, and sometimes, fiction is stranger than truth!
How would you describe your writing process?
I have no set timetable, but I try to get at least 1000 words a day written when I’m in the zone. I try to write three books a year, if possible.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
A wider spread in terms of publicity. Interaction with readers. Connection with other authors, and identification of trends in the market.
What advice would you have for other writers?
Just write – lots and lots. Don’t overthink it, and don’t bring in too many characters to your story. That can confuse readers very easily. Keep at it – don’t procrastinate – just write!
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
I get the covers professionally designed, and the titles tend to follow a theme, such as Murder on/in/at ….. or The XXX Mystery. Titles are very important. They impact sales a lot. I’m not delighted with all of the titles that have been used on my work, but those were decided by my publisher.
What’s your next step?
I want to write more of the current series, and maybe revisit some of the previous series that were very successful, such as The Galway Homicides, which has 15 books in all, or The Dublin Homicides, which has six books.
What book do you wish you’d written?
Books by Ian Rankin in the Rebus series or the IMP___ series by Ray Clarke. Wonderfully crafted and great stories too.
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
I’m thankful to everyone who takes the time to review the books – even the negative reviews. I can learn from them, too, though, thankfully, they have been few and far between.
FIND DAVID’S BOOK ON AMAZON
May 15, 2025 | Interviews, Mystery, Women's
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I grew up in the Australian bushland.
Why do you write?
To express myself in ways I normally wouldn’t in my everyday life.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
Old movies with strong female leads – All About Eve, Mildred Pierce and that 80s classic, Working Girl.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
My genre is hybrid (women’s/suspense/literary) so I’d like to be a bit of a magpie – enjoying the best of all worlds.
How would you describe your writing process?
Write – and re-write again!
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
I see the writing process as a way of interacting with readers anyway- so social media is an added bonus.
What advice would you have for other writers?
Keep on trucking.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
A bit like the way I write. It takes me a few reviews to come up with the right one.
What’s your next step?
I have a few projects on the stocks. I’m trying to decide which one to prioritise.
What book do you wish you’d written?
The Old Man and the Sea.
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
It depends on the review! Seriously, I’m pleased that someone has taken the time to leave feedback.
FIND JULIA’S BOOK ON AMAZON
May 15, 2025 | Interviews, Business, Memoir, Non Fiction
Today, we’re talking with Brandon Cox about his book, Hustle Reimagined
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I’ve been incarcerated longer than TikTok, the iPhone, and Instagram have existed — and yet I’m more connected to today’s hustle than most.
Why do you write?
I write because I’m building something that lasts. My children, my community, even strangers I may never meet — they deserve to know that success doesn’t require perfection. Writing allows me to leave behind more than fabric and fashion — it’s how I leave behind legacy, lessons, and light.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
The inspiration for Hustle Reimagined came straight from my reality — 18 years incarcerated, stripped of freedom, but never of vision. I realized I had two choices: let the time break me, or let it build me. So I used that time to learn, to grow, and to turn my pain into purpose. This book is the blueprint I wish someone had given me at the beginning. It’s not just a story — it’s a strategy.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
What I enjoy most is the impact. This genre isn’t just about storytelling — it’s about soul-shifting. Knowing that my words might reach someone who’s on the edge of giving up, and actually pull them back from that — that’s powerful. That’s why I love it.
How would you describe your writing process?
Writing for me is like hustling — it’s gritty, it’s daily, and it’s all about momentum. I jot down ideas during lockdown, rework chapters during rec, and edit through noise and chaos. But that’s the beauty of it. My process proves that even in restriction, you can create something limitless.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
Everything. Social media is the modern-day megaphone. Authors no longer have to wait for a publisher or a PR team to tell their story — we are the media now. Whether you’re dropping gems from your book, connecting with readers, or sharing the behind-the-scenes hustle, social media lets you build a real tribe around your words. For me, it’s not about just selling a book — it’s about building a movement. One post, one story, one reel at a time.
What advice would you have for other writers?
Stop waiting for the perfect time — it doesn’t exist. I wrote Hustle Reimagined from a prison cell with no laptop, no comfort, and no silence. But I had something more powerful: a story worth telling. If you’ve got a message, write it. If you’ve got a purpose, push it. Don’t let fear, doubt, or your circumstances stop you — because somebody out there needs your words.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
For me, the title has to hit like a punchline — it needs to tell you what you’re getting and make you feel something. Hustle Reimagined came from flipping the script on what hustle usually looks like. People expect grind, struggle, maybe even street talk — but I wanted to show them the evolution of hustle. The mindset. The transformation. That title is my mission in two words.”
“As for the cover, it has to represent the brand and the journey. I think about what will stand out on a shelf or in a scroll, but also what will feel timeless. I want the cover to match the energy of the content inside — clean, bold, and unapologetically real. Every design choice is intentional. I treat my book cover like I do my clothing designs: it has to speak before I say a word.
What’s your next step?
My next step is to build on the momentum of Hustle Reimagined and take the message even further. I’m already working on my second book, which dives into how people can use AI — like ChatGPT — to overcome limitations, start businesses, and create opportunities no matter where they are in life. At the same time, I’m continuing to grow my streetwear brand, Crookd Crown Clothier, and give back to communities and kids who’ve lost a parent to the system.”
“This isn’t just about books or clothes — it’s about legacy. It’s about proving that even after 18 years of incarceration, I can still impact the world in a positive way. So the next step is to keep building, keep inspiring, and keep redefining what royalty looks like — one project at a time.
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
Honestly, it’s one of the most gratifying feelings I’ve ever experienced. Knowing that Hustle Reimagined is actually reaching people and inspiring them — that’s everything to me. Each new review feels like a win, not just for me, but for everyone who’s ever felt stuck, silenced, or overlooked. I wrote this book hoping it would light a fire in someone, and seeing that it’s doing just that? It’s humbling. It reminds me that even from where I am, I can still make a difference.
FIND BRANDON’S BOOK ON AMAZON
