Interview with Paul James Nolan

Today we are sharing one of our favorite interviews from the past. This is an interview with Paul James Nolan who is the author of the historical fiction/adventure novel The Forsaken Queen.
 

Tell us a bit about yourself:
I’m half part teacher and half part writer, living near Winchester, UK. For years, I have enjoyed reading books to my classes and own children, often changing the endings when I prefer my own. I have a real passion for history: the little free time I have I spend visiting historical buildings, reading historical books and watching historical dramas. You could say (and some do) that I spend more time in the past than in the present!

I have also written a couple of school plays (with historical links of course) that can be purchased at www.easyprimaryschoolplays.com.

Describe the plot of your new book in a few sentences.
A security guard at Hampton Court is badly injured. No-one believes his account of being attacked by a ghost except three school-children, each of them avid historians. A school visit to the Tudor palace provides the children with the opportunity to investigate but what they find there is far greater than any of them could have imagined. Their discovery sets in motion a chain of events that takes them into the deepest recesses of some of England’s greatest castles. They find a Queen Forsaken; only their bravery and determination can redeem her.

Who do you think would most appreciate The Forsaken Queen?
The book will appeal to anyone who loves a good adventure or mystery and anyone who likes to be scared (a little).  If readers enjoy deepening their understanding of the past, then they will like it all the better. I wrote the book with the 11+ market in mind but adults have really taken to it too!

What inspired you to write a book about someone who searches the Great Castles of London and discovers the truth isn’t what he thought it would be?
I took a group of schoolchildren to Hampton Court. There, in the chapel, an attendant told us the amazing story that the heart of Jane Seymour (Henry VIII’s 3rd wife) is buried beneath the chapel. We weren’t sure whether to believe him but at that moment, a story was born.

Tell us a bit about the protagonist, Henry Taylor.
Things aren’t going so well for Henry. He’s being bullied at school by Maddisson Manners and her moronic mob; singled out for being a loner and a book worm. The fact that he lives with his father above their little historical bookshop doesn’t help either. He sees so little of his father who spends most of his time reenacting battles in full regalia. He has only one friend of note: Dominique, until that is, a new boy Simeon arrives at school. After his arrival, Henry changes forever. 

How did you do research on the castles that Henry visits?
By visiting them! I have been lucky enough to visit Hampton Court, Windsor Castle and The Tower of London many times. In fact, I have visited Hampton Court so many times, that when I have spoken to the schoolchildren, tourists have mistaken me for a guide and joined our group! Other than that, I have topped up my knowledge by reading a plethora of books and watching countless documentaries. My readers will feel like they are in the castle with the characters.

What are some of the interesting things you discovered while doing research on the castles?
Other than the story about Jane Seymour’s heart, I think the most amazing story has to involve our present Queen, and the vaults of St. George’s chapel at Windsor Castle. The remains of Henry VIII and Jane Seymour are locked away in a vault away from the public. However, when the Queen is hosting dignitaries at the castle, she often takes them for a private tour of the tombs! Isn’t that cool! Of course - this too I have woven into the story!

How long have you been writing?
About 3 years. For years before that I wrote with my classes, modelling stories but I have been writing my own stories for three years. It took nearly two years to write The Forsaken Queen.

How do you think you've evolved as a writer since when you first started?
To begin with, I wrote what I wanted to read but I soon learnt that I have to adapt my own style and control my own preferences to ensure that my writing appeals to as many people as possible. I have also learnt to tone done my descriptions – sometimes a door can be just a door!

Is there any aspect of writing you don't like?
It can be quite lonely – a far cry from teaching a bunch of children! As I write historical fiction, sometimes I am very keen to end the research and just get writing. I usually research the time-period for about 3 months.

What do you have in mind for your next project?
My new book, Demons of Dunkirk is due for released this month (May 2015) to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the heroic evacuation from Northern France in the summer of 1940.  

It’s about a Conscientious Objector from WWI who wants to redeem his tarnished reputation by rescuing stranded soldiers from the beaches. It’s aimed at the teen market and I think it’s a thrilling read.

The book is now available to purchase in many places – give it a Google!
I am currently writing a book set in the Bronze Age. It has a title but I can’t tell you yet!

I also have a sequel in mind for the Forsaken Queen – if there is a strong enough cry for it!

Is there anything else you'd like potential readers to know about your book?
Lots but I’ll keep it short. Life in Henry VIII’s court was precarious; the fortunes of those closest to him changed with the blowing of the wind. The Forsaken Queen explores the real possibility that more than two of his Queens met a deadly end... Have a read and see if you agree!

An excerpt from The Forsaken Queen:

The figure turned: black cloak billowing. The hood stared straight at them. Into them. Through them. Three mouths opened but no words escaped, cold air scraping over their dry throats. Pressed back by fear, the children felt the wood of the door behind them, trapping them. Slowly, the hooded figure slid nearer, bringing forth a lavender wave. Held out in front of her, in black-gloved hand, flickered a taper of light, flame flecks dancing of the marbled floor. Above lamented Tudor Rose pennants, blood drops’ crying upon the children’s socks. Gradually, the gloved-hand retracted, its grip released on the flickering candle. But the flame didn’t fall to the ground, instead it hovered ahead of the figure, its flame growing brighter. Now a second hand joined the first, either side of the hood and slowly they began to part and fall, gradually revealing the face beneath. Breath vacuumed from Henry’s rigid body, squeezed from his motionless mouth, for he instantly recognized the haunting, pale face, staring back at him, through hollowed, deathly eyes. 

Relevant Links

Buy the book on Amazon UK
Buy the book on Amazon US

Interview with Lory La Sevla

We are sharing some of our favorite interviews from the past. This interview, from 2015, features Lory La Selva Paduano -- the author of the historical-fiction novel The High Priestess.

Book blurb

ln a narrative setting, 'The High Priestess' is a story retold time after time to all those of 'Khemithian' backgrounds. Khemit is a mystacism about ancient Egypt that many have yet to discover. From a lost Dynasty, to the conspiracies brought forth by the present, it envelopes your heart and ships it right back to the fascinating era. Khafa our High priestess, is sure not to disappoint our readers, as she takes on Egypts most dangerous misfits in our Fictional aspect of the story, and Elizabeth Hawann our second main character follows a life long path of discoveries that lead her to the full story, and closer than ever to her destiny and 'The High Priestess' .
 

Describe the plot of your new book.

The plot of this book was really to emphasize on two things, to bring forth the mysticism of Khemit and to implement it's teachings in an adventurous way! Educating many was the goal, but keeping it fun was essential to my creative side.
 

Who do you think would most appreciate your book?

Mostly people who love, "the truth in the lie." Yeah, it's that kind of Fiction! (as Stephen King once said) and of course all those who love History and conspiracies, some good ol' romance, twists and turns also.
 

What can you tell us about The Khemitians?

They were the people who we now call Hebrews, Tibetans, Russians, European and many of today's black African Tribes. Highly lntelligent people, who used all their senses, to be exact all three hundred and sixty natural human senses, capable of so much more than our civilization today. They were the people who built such fabulous and monsterous structures of our ancient times.
 

What inspired you to write a historical fiction set in Egypt?

I've always loved Egypt! From when I can remember that is. I love the mystery and intrigue it ignites in all of us, yet in so many ways she's so open to its past, but no one's listening or looking in the right direction, so I felt a need to expose that.
 

Who was your favorite character to write?

Khafa by far! The actual High Priestess herself,, and that's because she's everything I'm not!

How do you hope reading your book will impact readers?

I'd love for them to connect with the Historical parts and the Khemitology aspect, just because it's so cool and unexpected, it's a little different and unusual, it's educational but fun and entertaining.
 

Can you tell us a bit about the creative process of this book, from initial idea to finished book?

I was sitting in my living room one Sunday afternoon last summer, as I was flipping channels, I came across a documentary of Egypt, as I so often watch. The whole family was here, and as I soaked up it's story line, I began looking at it's purpose. I saw something that needed to be written! lt was an instant marriage between me and the pages not long after, and I remember everyone staring at me that day and shouting "Write about this, now!" lt was hilarious, as if we were all thinking the same thing.
 

What do you have in mind for your next project?

My next project is for my readers, they've asked me to write about Ancient Rome, and it'll be a wonderful story in Historical - Fiction no less. I want to write about my ancestral roots, and implementing Historical facts, with an epic Fictional side with twists and turns like never before will have everyone with their mouths open ! Book 5 is Entitled 'The Legacy of a Legend' and part of the proceeds will go to the charity of my choice.

More Information

Buy the book on Barnes and Noble
Buy the book on Amazon

The Forsaken Queen - Interview with the Author

We are sharing some of favorite inspiring interviews from the past. This is an interview from 2015 with Paul James Nolan the author of the historical fiction/adventure novel The Forsaken Queen.
 

Tell us a bit about yourself:
I’m half part teacher and half part writer, living near Winchester, UK. For years, I have enjoyed reading books to my classes and own children, often changing the endings when I prefer my own. I have a real passion for history: the little free time I have I spend visiting historical buildings, reading historical books and watching historical dramas. You could say (and some do) that I spend more time in the past than in the present!

I have also written a couple of school plays (with historical links of course) that can be purchased at www.easyprimaryschoolplays.com.

Describe the plot of your new book in a few sentences.
A security guard at Hampton Court is badly injured. No-one believes his account of being attacked by a ghost except three school-children, each of them avid historians. A school visit to the Tudor palace provides the children with the opportunity to investigate but what they find there is far greater than any of them could have imagined. Their discovery sets in motion a chain of events that takes them into the deepest recesses of some of England’s greatest castles. They find a Queen Forsaken; only their bravery and determination can redeem her.

Who do you think would most appreciate The Forsaken Queen?
The book will appeal to anyone who loves a good adventure or mystery and anyone who likes to be scared (a little).  If readers enjoy deepening their understanding of the past, then they will like it all the better. I wrote the book with the 11+ market in mind but adults have really taken to it too!

What inspired you to write a book about someone who searches the Great Castles of London and discovers the truth isn’t what he thought it would be?
I took a group of schoolchildren to Hampton Court. There, in the chapel, an attendant told us the amazing story that the heart of Jane Seymour (Henry VIII’s 3rd wife) is buried beneath the chapel. We weren’t sure whether to believe him but at that moment, a story was born.

Tell us a bit about the protagonist, Henry Taylor.
Things aren’t going so well for Henry. He’s being bullied at school by Maddisson Manners and her moronic mob; singled out for being a loner and a book worm. The fact that he lives with his father above their little historical bookshop doesn’t help either. He sees so little of his father who spends most of his time reenacting battles in full regalia. He has only one friend of note: Dominique, until that is, a new boy Simeon arrives at school. After his arrival, Henry changes forever. 

How did you do research on the castles that Henry visits?
By visiting them! I have been lucky enough to visit Hampton Court, Windsor Castle and The Tower of London many times. In fact, I have visited Hampton Court so many times, that when I have spoken to the schoolchildren, tourists have mistaken me for a guide and joined our group! Other than that, I have topped up my knowledge by reading a plethora of books and watching countless documentaries. My readers will feel like they are in the castle with the characters.

What are some of the interesting things you discovered while doing research on the castles?
Other than the story about Jane Seymour’s heart, I think the most amazing story has to involve our present Queen, and the vaults of St. George’s chapel at Windsor Castle. The remains of Henry VIII and Jane Seymour are locked away in a vault away from the public. However, when the Queen is hosting dignitaries at the castle, she often takes them for a private tour of the tombs! Isn’t that cool! Of course - this too I have woven into the story!

How long have you been writing?
About 3 years. For years before that I wrote with my classes, modelling stories but I have been writing my own stories for three years. It took nearly two years to write The Forsaken Queen.

How do you think you've evolved as a writer since when you first started?
To begin with, I wrote what I wanted to read but I soon learnt that I have to adapt my own style and control my own preferences to ensure that my writing appeals to as many people as possible. I have also learnt to tone done my descriptions – sometimes a door can be just a door!

Is there any aspect of writing you don't like?
It can be quite lonely – a far cry from teaching a bunch of children! As I write historical fiction, sometimes I am very keen to end the research and just get writing. I usually research the time-period for about 3 months.

What do you have in mind for your next project?
My new book, Demons of Dunkirk is due for released this month (May 2015) to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the heroic evacuation from Northern France in the summer of 1940.  

It’s about a Conscientious Objector from WWI who wants to redeem his tarnished reputation by rescuing stranded soldiers from the beaches. It’s aimed at the teen market and I think it’s a thrilling read.

The book is now available to purchase in many places – give it a Google!
I am currently writing a book set in the Bronze Age. It has a title but I can’t tell you yet!

I also have a sequel in mind for the Forsaken Queen – if there is a strong enough cry for it!

Is there anything else you'd like potential readers to know about your book?
Lots but I’ll keep it short. Life in Henry VIII’s court was precarious; the fortunes of those closest to him changed with the blowing of the wind. The Forsaken Queen explores the real possibility that more than two of his Queens met a deadly end... Have a read and see if you agree!

An excerpt from The Forsaken Queen:

The figure turned: black cloak billowing. The hood stared straight at them. Into them. Through them. Three mouths opened but no words escaped, cold air scraping over their dry throats. Pressed back by fear, the children felt the wood of the door behind them, trapping them. Slowly, the hooded figure slid nearer, bringing forth a lavender wave. Held out in front of her, in black-gloved hand, flickered a taper of light, flame flecks dancing of the marbled floor. Above lamented Tudor Rose pennants, blood drops’ crying upon the children’s socks. Gradually, the gloved-hand retracted, its grip released on the flickering candle. But the flame didn’t fall to the ground, instead it hovered ahead of the figure, its flame growing brighter. Now a second hand joined the first, either side of the hood and slowly they began to part and fall, gradually revealing the face beneath. Breath vacuumed from Henry’s rigid body, squeezed from his motionless mouth, for he instantly recognized the haunting, pale face, staring back at him, through hollowed, deathly eyes. 

Relevant Links

Buy the book on Amazon UK
Buy the book on Amazon US

Nefretiti A. Morant, Author of Across the Sands

Nefretiti A. Morant is the author the historical fiction novel Across the Sands.

What inspired you to write Across The Sands?
I've always been a big fan of historical fiction and costume dramas. Shows like Master Piece Theater, Downtown Abbey, The Tudors, anything set in the past with drama, scandal and a love twist woven in.   I was motivated to write Across The Sands because while watching theses type of shows or movies in this genre, I would be annoyed that the only characters of color (if any) were either flat, lifeless, or enslaved persons.

But why the 14th century, and why Africa?
I wanted to write a story set in a time when Africans were known in the world as affluent, regal and proud.  Mansa Musa’s pilgrimage was infamous for putting Mali on the mid-evil world's map.  For centuries his name and Mali were synonymous with wealth, power and generosity. To this day he is still the richest man in history.  That’s why I chose 14th century Mali.

Tell us about the characters in Across The Sands.
The main character Awa Camara is the daughter of one of Mali's wealthiest families.  Her father Seydou Camara is a wealthy salt merchant. In 14th century Mali salt held as much value if not more that gold.  Seydou has three very different children.  Mahmaudou the eldest and only son is expected to follow in his father's footsteps.  But Mahmaudou wants to be a priest and study at Mali's Sankore University.  Awa the middle child and main character has been betrothed to Mansa Musa's son Maghan.  Awa does not want to marry Maghan, or anyone else for that matter.  Since she was a child she's desired one thing and one thing alone; to explore the world while traveling on a caravan.  But of course this is unconventional and  dismissed as foolish childhood fantasy.  Now the youngest daughter Sira is  known for her primness and beauty and wants nothing more than to marry a rich man.  In Across The Sands you will meet these three as well as a colorful array of characters from Mali's various social classes.  I'm really excited about the release of this book.

How long have you been writing?
I started writing poetry when I was a teenager.  In my early twenties I toyed with characters in short stories, but I never thought about publishing any if them.  It wasn't until about three years ago that I decided to do something with the poems and character sketches I had crammed into my nightstand drawer.  I decided to start a poetry blog which is now the showcase for all of my publications.  And to tell you the truth I wasn't sure if I could write a book, but after a few months of starting my poetry blog I decided to try.  I mean I new nothing about starting a website or a blog, but I had done it.  So I figured why try writing a book.  I began working on Perspectives and lets just say it been a rewarding journey.

What are the rewards as you put it?
Well I'd have to say that the reward comes from a satisfaction of achieving something that I value highly. Before I even wrote my first poem, I was a reading fanatic.  As a child, teen and young adult I would lose myself in the words of authors like Mildred D. Taylor, Toni Morrison and Walter Mosley.  Their works would ignite my imagination.  I've always respected the magic of words on paper and how they have the ability to create vivid pictures in your mind.  In that aspect I find being a writer rewarding.  To be a part of creating that type magic as you would.  That's probably why  now that I've started I can't stop.

How many books have you written and what are they generally about?
Across The Sands is my ninth novel.  I also have a book of poetry.   My books are about people who learn and grow as they move through the journey of life.  Everyone has a story, and our stories make up the fabric of our society.   Through my works I'm telling the story of the human experience.   Everyday and through every experience and circumstance we change, we grow and we learn something about ourselves and what we are capable of.  I dedicated to that message.  You know the saying; The journey defines the destination.

Nine novels, three years, do you ever get writers block, and if so what do you do?
I'm sure all writers do, but once I get get stuck in a particular story and lets say I'm stuck for more than a few days, I'll put it down and start another book.  I actually stopped and started Across The Sands three times over the course of two years.  If I get stuck, and don't know where to go next,  I'll just stop and start working one something else.

So what's next?
To tell you the truth, I'm not sure.  I've been working on a sci-fi novel off and on.  I'm not sure if I'm ready to dive into that or if I should do another historical fiction piece.  I really enjoyed writing "Across The Sands" and I am tempted to do a few more historically fictional works.  I guess my fans will have to wait and see.

How do you juggle it all, being a wife, mother, employee, and author?
I get asked this often and sometimes I'm not even sure how I do it.  I just make the time for writing, even if it means waking up at 4:30 am everyday.  I think when you’re passionate about something, I mean really passionate about it, you can't not feed that passion.  It lingers, whispering at the very core of everything you think, see and do.  That's how writing is for me.   I can't not write, it's just such a big part of who I've become.

What do you hope to achieve through your writing?
I want to touch people with my writing, and not only my writing, but my whole experience.  I hope that one day when I'm a best selling author, sitting on a beach working on my next master piece,  there'll be someone somewhere who looks at my dedication and perseverance and say's; if she can do it I can too.  I want my journey to serve as an inspiration of how anything is possible if you're willing to work hard and believe you deserve it.

What tips or words of encouragement do you have for other writers who are just starting out.
Be persistent. It's so important in the self publishing indie industry.  Marketing, and making your book stand out at a time when writing and publishing is virtually at everyone's fingertips is no easy feat.  But those who are not willing to go the distance will drop out of the race early on.  If writing is truly your passion, just keep at it.  Like everything else in life, with time, dedication and perseverance you'll find yourself crossing the finish line.

Watch the Across the Sands Book Trailer:

Relevant Links
Buy Across the Sands on Amazon 

Lory La Selva Paduano, Author of The High Priestess

Lory La Selva Paduano is the author of the historical-fiction novel The High Priestess.

Book blurb

ln a narrative setting, 'The High Priestess' is a story retold time after time to all those of 'Khemithian' backgrounds. Khemit is a mystacism about ancient Egypt that many have yet to discover. From a lost Dynasty, to the conspiracies brought forth by the present, it envelopes your heart and ships it right back to the fascinating era. Khafa our High priestess, is sure not to disappoint our readers, as she takes on Egypts most dangerous misfits in our Fictional aspect of the story, and Elizabeth Hawann our second main character follows a life long path of discoveries that lead her to the full story, and closer than ever to her destiny and 'The High Priestess' .
 

Describe the plot of your new book.

The plot of this book was really to emphasize on two things, to bring forth the mysticism of Khemit and to implement it's teachings in an adventurous way! Educating many was the goal, but keeping it fun was essential to my creative side.
 

Who do you think would most appreciate your book?

Mostly people who love, "the truth in the lie." Yeah, it's that kind of Fiction! (as Stephen King once said) and of course all those who love History and conspiracies, some good ol' romance, twists and turns also.
 

What can you tell us about The Khemitians?

They were the people who we now call Hebrews, Tibetans, Russians, European and many of today's black African Tribes. Highly lntelligent people, who used all their senses, to be exact all three hundred and sixty natural human senses, capable of so much more than our civilization today. They were the people who built such fabulous and monsterous structures of our ancient times.
 

What inspired you to write a historical fiction set in Egypt?

I've always loved Egypt! From when I can remember that is. I love the mystery and intrigue it ignites in all of us, yet in so many ways she's so open to its past, but no one's listening or looking in the right direction, so I felt a need to expose that.
 

Who was your favorite character to write?

Khafa by far! The actual High Priestess herself,, and that's because she's everything I'm not!

How do you hope reading your book will impact readers?

I'd love for them to connect with the Historical parts and the Khemitology aspect, just because it's so cool and unexpected, it's a little different and unusual, it's educational but fun and entertaining.
 

Can you tell us a bit about the creative process of this book, from initial idea to finished book?

I was sitting in my living room one Sunday afternoon last summer, as I was flipping channels, I came across a documentary of Egypt, as I so often watch. The whole family was here, and as I soaked up it's story line, I began looking at it's purpose. I saw something that needed to be written! lt was an instant marriage between me and the pages not long after, and I remember everyone staring at me that day and shouting "Write about this, now!" lt was hilarious, as if we were all thinking the same thing.
 

What do you have in mind for your next project?

My next project is for my readers, they've asked me to write about Ancient Rome, and it'll be a wonderful story in Historical - Fiction no less. I want to write about my ancestral roots, and implementing Historical facts, with an epic Fictional side with twists and turns like never before will have everyone with their mouths open ! Book 5 is Entitled 'The Legacy of a Legend' and part of the proceeds will go to the charity of my choice.

More Information

Buy the book on Barnes and Noble
Buy the book on Amazon