My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Babette Rosen Hughes, author of the book Lessons in Evil. Born in Cleveland Ohio, Babette grew up in the time of Prohibition and bootleggers. Her father was one of the first rum runners in the country and was murdered by the Mafia in a turf war at the age of 29. Babette was just two at the time. Writing has allowed her to draw from her unusual life experiences to create her characters and tell their stories (and sometimes cautionary tales) in vivid detail. Though she had always been an excellent writer throughout her life, and had even published a memoir, Lost and Found, Babette’s first novel, The Hat, wasn’t written and published until she was in her late eighties. She followed that with the other two books in the Kate Brady trilogy, The Red Scarf, and The Necklace. Other books followed: Searching for Vivian, 97 Speaks, and The Secret of Happiness. Now 101, she still writes every day with a fluidity and grace of a woman half her age. “The truth is liberating, but sometimes elusive.” She explains. “I’m always looking for it and how to best write about it, and I probably always will.” In my book review, I stated that Babette hit her latest creation out of the park. Annie Burg is an author who has been asked to write the unofficial biography of a very famous writer, Helga Hoffman. Annie doesn't want the assignment because of Helga's dismissive personality. Nonetheless, she takes it in hopes of restarting her career. But that is when everything turns sideways, and Annie finds herself in the middle of a Nazi-hunting investigation! I love Annie because I see her hang ups and all that is holding her back in life. I understand what drives her forward at the beginning of the story, but more importantly, what drives her at the end. The transformation is stunning. Add to that an antagonist you love to hate, and this novella has everything you need for a quick, satisfying read. Highly recommend! You can follow Author Babette Rosen Hughes: Website: www.babettehughesbooks.com Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   #babetterosenhughes #lessonsinevil #novella #historicalfiction #suspense #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Janet Roberts, author of the book What Lies We Keep.  Janet Roberts is a global leader in cybersecurity education and awareness with over a decade of experience. She holds a BA in Journalism from Temple University, and MA in Communications from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. She is a member of both the Women’s Fiction Writers Association (WFWA) and Pennwriters. Her first two novels won 1st Place in Fiction from Pittsburgh’s The Authors’ Zone. Her poetry has been published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and in San Fedele Press’ Art in the Time of COVID-19. She lives in Pittsburgh’s East End where Frick Park is her favorite place for a hike. She never met a library, bookstore, or ice cream shop she didn’t like. In my book review, I stated What Lies We Keep seamlessly weaves cybersecurity with the lies we tell one another. Ted and Charlotte are on the road to "living the dream." Ted has a good job, they have a daughter, and are saving to buy their first home. But something is amiss. Ted is hiding something and Charlotte, though she isn't sure what, is dragging him to marital counseling in hopes of saving their marriage. But the lies go beyond Ted, with two good friends, a brother-in-law, and even her mother keeping things from her - things that shape her world. ​This is not merely a story of Ted's redemption, but of Charlotte's journey to find the truth - about her husband, about her marriage, about her friends - and mostly about herself. Great read! You can follow Author Janet Roberts: Website: www.booksbyjanetroberts.com IG: @janetroberts77 Threads: @janetroberts77 FB:  @janet.roberts.1426 TikTok:  @wpawriter12 YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT0Ve00TmFDDIhKv2ujvhmA   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1 #janetroberts #whatlieswekeep #womensfiction #familyfiction #contemporaryfiction #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Edward Trayer, organizer of The Wishing Shelf Book Awards, and author of 18 children, YA, and adult books under the pen names of Billy Bob Buttons and Hickory Crowl. Today, Edward and I are chatting about book awards – what they are, what makes a good award, why you want to enter, and what to do if you win. Edward is a young talented author. On top of being a secondary school English teacher, he is also a pilot. Born in the Viking city of York, he and his wife, Therese, a true Swedish girl from the IKEA county of Småland, now live in Stockholm and London. Their twin girls, Rebecca and Beatrix, and little boy, Albert, inspire him every day to pick up a pen and work on his books. When not writing, he enjoys tennis and playing 'MONSTER!' with his three children. He is the author of the much loved, The Gullfoss Legends, Rubery Award finalist, Felicity Brady and the Wizard's Bookshop, UK People Book Prize runner-up, TOR Assassin Hunter and TOR Wolf Rising. I Think I Murdered Miss' is his ninth children's novel and recently won The UK People's Book Prize.   You can follow Edward, aka Billy Bob Buttons: Website: https://www.bbbuttons.co.uk/ and https://www.thewsa.co.uk/   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   #edwardtrayer #billybobbuttons #hickorycrowl #thewishingshelfbookawards #wishingshelfawards #bookawards #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Meredith Ritchie, author of the book Poster Girls.  Her historical fiction novel takes place in North Carolina during WWII, and is based on the true but forgotten events that happened in her hometown. When her triplets left for college, she wrote Poster Girls as a cure for acute empty nest syndrome. She now lives in Charlotte with her husband, two cats, four chickens and grown adults that occasionally return to her cozy coop. Poster Girls was named 2022 "Best of the Nest" for fiction by QC Nerve magazine and was recently named as part of the 2024 North Carolina Reads program sponsored by NC Humanities, a division of the Library of Congress. A lifelong learner, Meredith believes history told in the form of stories can never be forgotten, especially history that happened in our own backyard. In my book review, I stated that Meredith tells a delightful story about a group of "Rosie the Riveters" working in a bullet factory in Charlotte, NC during WWII. The story comes from two points of view - Maggie and Cora. Both women are married to soldiers, have moved to Charlotte from other areas, and love books - enough to start a friendship. However, others aren't quite as keen to see this relationship, since Maggie is a white woman of privilege and Cora is a poor, black woman. These two women are strong and fight for themselves and for one another. I enjoy how Meredith shows how, despite her good intentions, Maggie often 'gets it wrong.' I also love how she shows that Cora, who interprets life through a lens of racism, also gets it wrong. Most importantly, I love how the two characters persevere despite it all. ​If you love a good historical fiction, especially one that makes you think about issues we face today, then, this is the book for you. You can follow Author Meredith Ritchie Website: meredithritchie.com IG: @postergirlsbook   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   #meredithritchie #postergirls #historicalfiction #womensfiction #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Mark Jamilkowski, author of the book The Road to Moresco.  Mark is a first-time author, a co-founder of a healthcare start-up, a husband and father.  He enjoys music, reading and researching, games of strategy, photography, cooking, and writing. Mark authored "The Road to Moresco", a historical fiction novel released in August 2023, to tell the incredible story of a mother and her daughter beginning in early 1900's Italy. The story of these persistent and resilient women is complex, intimate, and inspiring. In my book review, I stated The Road to Moresco is a story about Maria-Luisa Moresco and then her daughter Claire. As a woman in the early 1900s, Maria-Luisa was ahead of her times and wanted more than the traditional life of motherhood. Unfortunately, her life was not easy, and the reader follows her as she pushes her way forward despite such things as earthquakes, war, and murder. Her daughter lived with these consequences and suffered her own difficult journey. The story and characters were really good. The historical research that went into the novel is also phenomenal. However, Mark had a difficult time intertwining the story with the history. I often felt like I was reading a great novel interrupted by a strong history lesson – which is something we discuss. Nonetheless, the story is a wonderful portrayal of strong women in a time when women were meant to be something else. You can follow Author Mark Jamilkowski: Website: www.mark-jamilkowski-author.com/ X: @roadtomoresco Goodreads: @ Mark_Jamilkowski   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   #markjamilkowski #theroadtomoresco #familysaga #historicalfiction #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Jennifer Manocherian, author of the book Alpha Bette.  Alpha Bette is Jennifer’s first novel. She put much of her personal and professional life experience into writing it, having been a family therapist, divorce mediator, Broadway and Off-Broadway producer, musical book writer, screenwriter & producer, and screenwriting teacher. She co-wrote and produced the films Family Blues and Boundary Waters (in production) as well as wrote the book of two musicals that are streaming online: Marry Harry, a full-length musical, and Cockroaches & Cologne, a short musical. She is a proud board member of New York Stage and Film, The Peace Studio, and 18by Vote. She is married with five children and many grandchildren—great source material! In my book review, I stated Alpha Bette is a contemporary fiction told from the viewpoint of several characters who revolve around the matriarch Bette Gartner. At ninety-five, Bette has lost her husband, most of her friends, and even her granddaughter. She has to rely on help from her housekeeper and night nurse after a fall that left her reliant on her wheelchair. One morning, after what she is sure is a sign from her dead husband, Bette orchestrates a dinner party. The entire story takes place in one day giving readers a glimpse into the past and present of Bette and those around her: housekeeper, aide, two neighbors, daughter and son-in-law, great-granddaughter, and what Bette hopes to be her eventual great-grandson-in-law. Throw in a cremated parrot, political prisoners, a spoiled puppy, a cancer scare, and a medium who Bette believes can speak to her husband, George, and you have a dinner party you'll never forget. This book reminds me a bit of My Grandmother Told Me To Tell You She's Sorry by Fredrik Backman and The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley. I think it is because we get into the heads of so many characters and see how they touch one another's lives. ​Jennifer states that people either love or hate the ending. I'm in the love category, but that may be because I saw it coming! This is another must-read. You can follow Author Jennifer Manocherian: Website: https://jennifermanocherian.net/ FB: @ jmanocherian IG: @jennifermanocherian LinkedIn: @jennifer-manocherian-2421855   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   #jennifermanocherian #alphabette #contemporary #familyfiction #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guests today on the Online for Authors podcast are the editors of Feisty Deeds: Historical Fictions of Daring Women with a forward by Aimie K Runyan. The stories in Feisty Women span six centuries. Within these stories, you’ll find that even when time periods and geographical locations vary greatly, women’s struggles as they confront adversity are often remarkably universal. The twenty-three stories in this collection follow ordinary women from the 1470s to the 1960s as they rise to meet life’s challenges. Foreign invasions, the outbreak of war, rigid domestic authority, strictures of society and religion, the supernatural, love and family bonds all serve as catalysts for the feisty deeds of the women in these tales. Aimie K. Runyan is the internationally bestselling author of The School for German Brides, A Bakery in Paris, and Mademoiselle Eiffel. She writes to celebrate unsung heroines. She has written eight historical novels and is delving into the exciting world of contemporary women's fiction. She has been a finalist for the Colorado Book Award five times, a nominee for the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers' 'Writer of the Year, ' and a Historical Novel Society's Editors' Choice selection. Aimie is active as a speaker and educator in the writing community in Colorado and beyond. She lives in the beautiful Rocky Mountains with her wonderful husband, two (usually) adorable children, two (always) sweet cats, and a pet dragon. Website: aimiekrunyan.com IG: @bookishaimie FB: @aimiekrunyan X: @aimiekrunyan   After a career as a university professor teaching and publishing in philosophy, Carolyn Korsmeyer turned her hand to fiction. She has published two novels, one historical – Charolotte’s Story, one a mystery – Little Follies: A Mystery at the Millennium. Her third novel, Riddle of Spirit and Bone, will be released in February 2025.   Website: www.carolynkorsmeyer.com FB: @carolyn.korsmeyer IG: @carolyn.korsmeyer LinkedIn: carolyn-korsmeyer   Christy Matheson writes romantic Regency fiction about friends, family, and finding one's place in an ever-changing world. Her debut novel was a finalist for the 2023 WFWA Rising Star Award, and is currently on submission, represented by Kristina Sutton Lennon. She is an award-winning spoken word poet. Christy is also an embroidery artist, classically trained pianist, and sews all of her own clothes. She lives in Oregon, on a country property that fondly reminds her of a Regency estate (except with a swing set instead of faux Greek ruins), with her five children, two Shelties, a bunny, and an improbable amount of art supplies. Website: christymatheson.com FB: @ Christy Matheson, Author IG: @christy_matheson_author X: @CMathesonAuthor   Elaine Schroller reads and writes historical fiction to escape writing about computer software and to travel to other places in time. Her degree is in History, which gave her the perfect training for researching specific places and events in DARE NOT TELL and THE BRAVEST SOLDIER. She’s traveled to all but one of the countries in the books and visited all the sites where the story takes place, some more than once.   She was an oil brat, and attended high schools in Algiers, Algeria, Northwood, England, Clear Lake City, Texas, Beirut, Lebanon, and Kingston-upon-Thames, England. For many years, she’s lived in Bellaire, Texas. She and her husband raised their son there. Now they have a rescue cocker spaniel underfoot and travel as often as they can convince their son to look after the dog for them.   Elaine is a member of the Historical Novel Society and the Women's Fiction Writers Association.   Website: www.elaineschroller.com IG: @elaineschroller FB: @elaine.aucoin.schroller   After selling her European fashion specialty store in 2016, Kay Smith-Blum began writing the novel she had been percolating on for two decades. Three manuscripts later, Smith-Blum’s debut novel, Tangles, depicts the human costs of the nuclear age and the dangerous legacy it leaves for future generations. “The Calf” is a companion piece, and the first in a series of short works and essays that will accompany the release of Smith-Blum’s novel in November 2024. Winner of the 2023 Black Fox Lit short story contest, Smith-Blum has been published in multiple literary journals.   Website: www.KaySmith-Blum.com IG: @discerningKSB FB:  @kay.smithblum LinkedIn: kay-smith-blum-3877273 X: @kaysmithblum   Kimberly Sullivan writes the women’s fiction stories she loves to read, both contemporary and historic tales of women and the rich lives they lead along their journeys of self-discovery. She is an award-winning author of four novels and one short story collection - . Three Coins, Dark Blue Waves, In The Shadow of The Apennines, Drink Wine and Be Beautiful: Short Stories, and Rome's Last Noble Palace. Her new novel, EASTER AT THE THREE COINS INN, will be published in the autumn. A lifetime admirer and longtime resident of Italy, Kimberly is often guilty of sneaking the bel paese into her stories.   Website: kimberlysullivanauthor.com IG: @kimberlyinrome Goodreads: Kimberly Sullivan BookBub: Kimberly Sullivan Books   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1 #feistydeeds #womensfiction #historicalfiction #anthology #shortstories #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Laury A Egan, author of the book The Psychologist’s Shadow.  Laury is the author of thirteen novels and four limited edition poetry volumes. Eighty-five of her stories and poems have appeared in literary journals and anthologies. She is a reviewer for The New York Journal of Books, a fine arts photographer, and a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University. She lives on the northern coast of New Jersey. In my book review, I stated The Psychologist's Shadow is a psychological thriller that had me hooked from the first chapter. Ellen Haskell is a psychologist who recently moved her practice to remove herself from a bad situation. Somehow, it seems that 'bad situations' follow Ellen, and she soon finds herself in the middle of an obsession. Laury does a wonderful job casting light on several patients and even a family member who could be behind the phone calls, notes, and trinkets. I didn't figure out the stalker. I had ruled out some because they seem too obvious and others because of specific things that happened during the action. I actually thought it was one of the patients that I didn't want it to be! I even suspected patients ruled out by Ellen figuring she was missing something. Finally, I suspected a past boyfriend. Although I hadn't ruled out the real stalker, I certainly wouldn't have bet my life on it! ​Laury did a great job keeping the reader guessing. Although I tend to shy away from thrillers because they often get too graphic, Laury provided all the suspense necessary without adding gratuitous violence. This is a must-read! You can follow Author Laury A Egan: Website:www.lauryaegan.com FB: @laury.egan IG: @laurya.egan X: @EganLaury LinkedIn: @laury-a-egan-09096b3/   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   #lauryaegan #thepsychologistsshadow #suspense #thriller #psychologicalsuspense #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Alex Sanfilippo, founder of PodMatch, here to chat with me about podcast guesting for authors.  PodMatch, is a software company specifically focused on independent podcast hosts and their guests to elevate their voices through podcasting and be heard. In addition to founding PodMatch, Alex is also the host of the top-rated podcast, Podcasting Made Simple, and is one of the most sought-after educators and public speakers in the podcasting industry. At the age of 10, Alex got his first taste of entrepreneurship when he began selling used golf balls that he would find in the lakes and woods around his neighborhood golf course. Alex immediately realized that he enjoyed generating sales and keeping track of profit margins. (Yes, an odd kid for only 10 years old!) Through many twists and turns, from a job in the aerospace field to church ministry leadership, Alex finally came back to his entrepreneurial roots with the podcast, Creating a Brand, and eventually creating the platform, PodMatch, to help podcasters find guests for their shows. In Alex’s own words, “I’m in this industry to serve indie podcasters, and their guests to help independent voices get elevated and, as a result, help them serve the world in the way only they can. I love what I do; I believe I’m now doing what I was created to do – And I’m giving it 110% every day!” You can follow Alex Sanfilippo, Founder of Podmatch, at: www.podmatch.com/free Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1 #alexsanfilippo #podmatch #podcasting #podcastingforauthors #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

As the award-winning host for Online for Authors, my goal is to introduce avid readers to characters they’d like to invite to lunch. Listeners will have the opportunity to discover new authors, amazing characters, and “can’t stop reading” stories. Online for Authors releases a new episode featuring a guest interview each Tuesday morning at 6am ET. Tune in to be introduced to new and upcoming authors in a wide variety of fiction genres - from historical to fantasy to mystery to thriller to romance – as well as inspirational memoirs. If you are looking for the next book on your “to be read” pile, then this is the podcast for you. Listen as authors discuss their latest work (no spoilers!), the impetus behind the storyline, how/where/why they write, what’s coming up next, and more! These conversations are in-depth because unlike other podcasts focused on fiction, I take the time to read and review each novel before the interview. By doing so, I can guarantee a good fit for my audience as well as an interesting and inquisitive conversation. Additionally, the first Saturday of each month, I release what I affectionately call OFAU – Online for Authors University. These once-monthly episodes feature writing tips for authors in all stages of their careers and speaks directly to my desire to mentor others. Whether someone wants to know about editing, marketing, book awards, being a guest on a podcast, or how notebooking can help you overcome writer’s block, writers and aspiring writers will find useful tips to move their writing to the next level. Finally, I gather experts for LIVE streams around topics of interest, such as why authors choose to use pen names or a behind the scenes look at audiobook creation. These LIVE streams happen each 5th Tuesday at 7pm ET, in addition to various dates around specific bookish events like book launches, author readings, and even book birthdays! If you read more than 40 books per year and want to veer away from the NYT Best Seller's List or want to expand beyond your preferred genre, Online for Authors can help you discover novels written by Indie-Authors to add to your to-be-read list.

My guests today on the Online for Authors podcast are here to discuss pen names and why some authors choose to use them, as well as the benefits and downfalls of doing so. My panel of guests includes Louise Davis, author of Haunted by You, Alexandra Grace, author of Author of The Journey Series, Van Haney, author of Stories to Curl Your Toes and Bloody Ever After, and Wenna Olsson, author of Lost in Secrets. --- Louise Davis is a powerful, up-and-coming young adult author with an innate ability to draw readers into her stories using dramatic realism. Her commercial and accessible writing style blends with highly riveting and twisting plotlines to craft truly unique works of literary art. Her recent book, Haunted by You, artistically showcases her wide range of writing skills, weaving in romance, mystery, and suspense all in one thrilling book. Her lifelong love of reading led her to earn a bachelor’s degree with a focus on creative writing, which paved the way to writing her own books, including her children’s book, Grandpa’s Boots. Through Louise’s profound character development and realistic storylines, she enjoys entertaining her readers while delivering valuable life lessons in the process. When Louise is not sharing her love for writing with the world, she enjoys reading, going on adventures, and spending her time with her five boys, husband, and various animals on their peaceful 3-acre ranch-style home in the Idaho Falls, Idaho area. You can follow Author Louise Davis: Website: https://www.louisedavisbooks.com/ IG:@louisedavisbooks FB: @louisedavisbooks --- It wasn't until her 40s that Alexandra Grace fulfilled her dream to be an author, and she had so much fun, her first novel evolved into a series. She likes to combine her respect for military service men and women with her heartfelt approach to storytelling. All her novels are heartwarming, sweet with heat stories that give lovable veteran heroes the happily ever after they deserve. Alexandra lives in Virginia with her family and enjoys reading, binge watching action TV series with her husband, and being her kids' biggest cheerleader. You can follow Alexandra Grace: IG: @authoralexandragrace Threads: @authoralexandragrace FB: @authoralexandragrace Tiktok: @authoralexandragrace --- Vanessa grew up in the new-age circus known as the entertainment industry. She was first published in an anthology of poems in 1997. In the early 2000's she was showcased in young filmmaker competitions for her screenplays, and in 2018 while getting her Master's in Education she self-published her first book of short stories, Stories to Curl Your Toes. Now after two children and a move to the Pacific Northwest she's unleashing her stories into the world once again. You can follow Author Van Haney: Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Van-Haney/author/B0CFJYCSYJ TikTok: @van_haney_books IG: @dystopianess FB: @Dystopianess --- Wenna lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two children. She loves words and the hope and joy they bring. She expresses herself best through written words. She first started writing over eight years ago to navigate the tumultuous emotions that clouded her mind. She began sharing her words through blogs and non-fiction writing. In 2022, she made the move to start writing fiction, desiring to create multilayered stories that offered encouragement. Stories taking a bit of heavy and twisting it into a fun tale, but still, lessons learned. Creating something good to fill your mind with and bringing a little light and hope to something not so easy. And also reveal the strength of love. In the fall of 2023, she self-published her debut fiction novel and has plans to continue on her journey to bring great stories that blend mystery, love, suspense, and a ray of hope. You can follow Author Wenna Olsson: IG: @author.wennaolsson --- Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1 Copyright Information for Pen Names: https://www.copyright.gov/circs/circ32.pdf https://blogs.loc.gov/copyright/2022/04/whats-in-a-name-using-pseudonyms-when-registering-works-with-the-copyright-office/  #vanhaney #wennaolsson #louisedavis #alexandragrace #hauntedbyyou #thejourneyseries #curlyourtoes #bloodyeverafter #lostinsecrets #pennames #livepodcast #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Krystal Clark, author of the book Balance of Power, the first in the Chozien Path Series.  Krystal, a budding fantasy author, discovered the enchanting world of writing as a refuge for emotional expression during her childhood. What started as a solace soon bloomed into a passion for poetry, breathing life into her journey of public speaking. While many view Fantasy as an escape, Krystal found it to be a world that coexisted within her own reality, shaping her perception of storytelling. As time unfolded, the fantasy genre lost its allure, becoming mundane and repetitive for Krystal, prompting her to cease reading altogether. Determined to redefine the essence of Fantasy, she decided to embark on her own literary quest, focusing not on fantastical worlds but on the characters within them – characters as human and complex as ourselves. Life's demands took center stage as Krystal navigated through college, financial responsibilities, marriage, and the joys of motherhood. Her career in Data Management soared as she became a top-performing executive, yet the longing to be an author lingered in the depths of her being. Despite the demands, she put her writing on pause. It was her husband's encouragement that reignited the spark within Krystal, propelling her to pick up her pen once more. With his unwavering support, she completed her first fantasy novel, a testament to her resilience and unwavering dedication to her dream. The journey from initiation to completion was marked by gratitude for the experiences that shaped her – from childhood through adolescence, young adulthood, motherhood, marriage, and career trials. Krystal acknowledges that without this rich tapestry of life, her fantasy novel would not have achieved the success it enjoys. The good and the bad, the trials and triumphs – all have not only provided inspiration for her writing but have also deepened her understanding of "Moving With Meaning." As a budding fantasy author, Krystal B. Clark invites readers into a world where characters mirror the complexities of humanity, creating stories that resonate with the essence of life itself." In my book review, I stated that although not typically a fantasy reader, I do enjoy a well-written fantasy with strong characters – and Krystal provides just that. In Balance of Power, we see different orders looking for The Chozien, the one the Great Spirit has sent to rule the earth. We follow the Chozien from infancy through early adulthood as he trains and learns and begins to accept his role. But not everyone is happy and there are some who wish to steal The Chozien for their own order - because the order with the boy has immense power over the future. ​I enjoyed the characters, and the world, though different from my own, had enough similarities that I didn't get bogged down. The only thing I didn't like was the cliffhanger at the end. Of course, Krystal has ensured that I will read the next installment! You can follow Author Krystal Clark: Website: https://www.movingwithmeaning.com/ IG: @movingwithmeaning82 LinkedIn: @krystalclark YouTube: @movingwithmeaning TikTok: @krystalbclark   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   #krystalclark #krystalbclark #balanceofpower #thechozienpathseries #fantasy #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Ally Dalsimer, author of the book, It’s Okay Not to be Fabulous Every Day. Ally is a published author, award-winning environmental expert, former political candidate, and an experienced life coach. Life highlights include traveling the world, rescuing 7 cats, raising two children, and surviving the death of her husband and mother. Her breadth of life experience infuses her ‘Fabulous’ book with incredible insights and lessons learned.   Ally has undergraduate degrees in English and Psychology from the University of Richmond, and a Master’s in Public Policy, Environmental Law and Economics Track from Georgetown University. She lives in Virginia with her rescue cat Pooma. She has authored or co-authored more than 50 articles, technical reports, proceedings, brochures, and now a book! She is a member of ALLi, SCBWI, TWSA, and AAUW. Her new book, Jack & Ginger: An Unexpected Friendship will be available in 2024! In my book review, I stated It's Okay Not To Be Fabulous Every Day by Ally Dalsimer is an inspirational read reminding us that although we should have goals and strive to reach them, we don't have to be at the top of our game every single day. In fact, it isn't possible to do so. When that is our aim, we are sure to become disappointed in ourselves. Ally began this book as a book of 'lessons learned' for her children as they began to move away from home and start their adult lives. In the end, she realized that everyone needs these bits of wisdom. Each chapter has quotes from sources you will recognize, such as Martin Luther King, Jr, but she also throws in Yoda. In fact, Ally is willing to share truth wherever she finds it to help each of us live a more fulfilled life. ​ I think this book would be a perfect source of daily inspiration and could easily be used for prompts for daily journal writing. It is not a 'one and done' book. Instead, it will stay on your bedside table for easy access whenever life seems just a little bit too hard. You can follow Author Ally Dalsimer: Website: www.allydalsimer.com IG: @ally.dalsimer X: @AllyDalsimer LinkedIn: @ally-dalsimer-5a872a10/ FB: @allydalsimer1 Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1 #allydalsimer #itsokaynottobefabulouseveryday #itsokaynottobefabulous #selfhelp #inspirational #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Gary Simonds, author of the book Death’s Pale Flag.  Gary is a highly experienced neurosurgeon, and former head of an academic neurosurgery program at Virginia Tech/Carilion Clinic. He is a professor and teaches regularly at the Virginia Tech School of Neuroscience and the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine. Gary has written and spoken widely on the subjects of neuroscience, medical school admissions, humanism, medical socioeconomics, medical ethics, burnout, personal wellness, spirituality, death and dying, and the interface between science and religion. Known for his compassion and sense of humor, he also writes fiction and is an accomplished and entertaining storyteller. Born in New Jersey, Gary has lived in New Jersey; England; Washington D.C.; Denver; Danville, Pennsylvania; and Roanoke, Virginia. He currently lives in the beautiful town of Black Mountain, North Carolina. In my book review, I stated that Death's Pale is a psychological thriller that had me from page one. The main character, Ryan, is a brain surgeon, so some of the medical stuff really hit home with me as my husband and I navigate his brain cancer diagnosis. However, I found what Ryan does as a trauma neurosurgeon amazing. And because the author is a neurosurgeon, it is very accurate! But the story isn't about a run-of-the-mill neurosurgeon and his patients. Instead, it is about a highly educated man who begins to see ghosts - some from long ago and some far more recent. Why are they contacting him? What will his coworkers and family think? Are they real or is he cracking up? ​I loved this story and was sad to see it end. Gary did a magnificent job with character development. Definitely a must-read, even if psychological thriller is not usually on your TBR! You can follow Author Gary Simonds: Website: www.garyrsimonds.com Social media: FB: @garyrsimonds TikTok: @garyrsimonds IG: @garyrsimonds   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1 #garysimonds #garyrsimonds #deathspaleflag #psychologicalthriller #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Fran Hawthorne, author of the book, I Meant to Tell You. Fran has been writing novels since she was four years old, although she was sidetracked for several decades by journalism. During that award-winning career, she wrote eight nonfiction books (mainly about consumer activism and the healthcare industry) and was an editor or regular contributor for The New York Times, Business Week, Fortune, and many other publications. But Fran never abandoned her true love: Her debut novel, The Heirs, was published in 2018, and now I MEANT TO TELL YOU (which was published last November by Stephen F. Austin State University Press) has already won or is a finalist for seven awards, including the Eric Hoffer Award and the Sarton Award. Fran is at work on two new novels and also writes book reviews for the New York Journal of Books. In my book review, I stated that I Meant to Tell You is a contemporary women's fiction with some forays into the history surrounding the demonstrations during the Vietnam War era. More importantly, it is about a woman named Miranda who must come to terms with her past - both the past she has tried to keep secret and the past that has been kept secret from her. Fran made me think about what I would do to keep my mistakes hidden from others or what others might do if they found out about my skeletons. She also made me consider how I would handle learning about someone else's secrets - especially if those secrets were meaningful to me. ​ Can love survive the past? And when is it okay to tell a few white lies to gloss over the details of the past? I Meant To Tell You may just have the answers. You can follow Author Fran Hawthorne: Website: https://www.hawthornewriter.com Instagram: @hawthornewriter X: @hawthornewriter LinkedIn: in/franhawthorne Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/goodreadscomhawthornewriter   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com  FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   #franhawthorne #imeanttotellyou #womensfiction #literaryfiction #historicalfiction #vietnamera #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Editor Megan Turner here to talk with me about the editing process. Megan is a graduate of the MFA Program for Poets and Writers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Her work has appeared in Witness, Atticus Review, Rio Grande Review, Fiction International, and others. She currently serves as a developmental editor at Atmosphere Press and as an instructor for UC Berkeley Extension. She lives and works in Portland, Maine. Megan and I met almost three years ago through Atmosphere Press, and she was instrumental in helping me bring Sunflowers Beneath the Snow to publication. Since then, she has been my editor for An Enemy Like Me and Daughters of Green Mountain Gap. Each time, she has helped take my story to the next level. You can follow editor and writer Megan Turner at her website: www.meganrturner.com or through Atmosphere Press: www.atmospherepress.com   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   #meganturner #editing #editingprocess #developmentaleditor #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Elaine Schroller, author of the book The Bravest Soldiers. Elaine reads and writes historical fiction to escape writing about computer software and to travel to other places in time. Her degree is in History, which gave her the perfect training for researching specific places and events in her first novel, Dare Not Tell, as well as her second, The Bravest Soldiers. She’s traveled to all but one of the countries in the books and visited all the sites where the story takes place, some more than once. Elaine was an oil brat and attended high schools in Algiers, Algeria, Northwood, England, Clear Lake City, Texas, Beirut, Lebanon, and Kingston-upon-Thames, England. For many years she has lived in Bellaire, Texas, where she and her husband raised their son. Now, she has a rescue cocker spaniel underfoot and travels as often as she can convince her son to look after the dog. Elaine is a member of the Historical Novel Society and the Women's Fiction Writers Association. In my book review, I stated that The Bravest Soldiers was an amazing historical fiction with a dash of romance. It is set in WWII in Australia and has been winning awards - as it should! For those who know Elaine's work, we meet Sophie in book one of The Immense Sky Saga. She was a nurse in WWI in France but when the war ended, she emigrated to Australia with her new husband, adopted son, and step-son. The Bravest Soldiers is what happens to Sophie as a mom during WWII. Sophie is one of those "do it all" ladies who sees a need and fills it. But what happens when the needs are those you cannot fill and the fear of loss is almost too immense? Elaine helps us see that bravery doesn't just happen on the front line of a war. In fact, the bravest soldiers are often the women who are left behind to keep things running despite the stress and worry. ​ You can follow Author Elaine Schroller: Website: www.elaineschroller.com Instagram: @elaineschroller Facebook: @elaine.aucoin.schroller   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   #elaineschroller #thebravestsoldiers #historicalfiction #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Carol Pearson, author of the book 10 Little Rules for a Blissy Life. Carol is the founder and creative force behind the 10 Little Rules books. She crafted her rules for living after navigating through some of life's unexpected twists and coming out stronger, happier, and whole. Home base is Bay City, Michigan, where she lives, writes, and shares life’s adventures with her husband, John. Carol's words aren't just ink on paper; with a dash of humor and a large sprinkle of compassion, she’ll take you on a self-discovery journey — one rule at a time. In my book review, I stated that Carol wrote 10 Little Rules for a Blissy Life after her world, in a matter of eight weeks, fell apart. Her daughters were moving out to start their own lives, her husband lost his job, they realized their marriage was over, and her own income stream was destroyed by her business partners. Despite being broke, homeless, and dealing with interpersonal relationship issues, Carol was the happiest she had ever been. Why? She had begun living life by her own rules rather than the rules given to her by her parents, society, and the "shoulds" residing in her head. Carol offers readers the ten rules that helped her navigate through these big changes and offers great questions and journaling space to help find where you might be stuck. The best part is that these are merely a starting place. She encourages readers to dig deep and discover their own rules for being happy in this life. My favorite rule is #10 - Every Night, Give Thanks. This is a perfect book for anyone going through change and wanting to figure out how to do so gracefully. You can follow Author Carol Pearson Website: https://10littlerules.com Facebook: @10littlerules Instagram: @10littlerules YouTube: @10littlerules94 LinkedIn: @10littlerules   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1 #carolpearson #10littlerules #10littlerulesforablissylife #inspirational #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Louise Davis, author of the book, Haunted by You. Louise is a powerful, up-and-coming young adult author with an innate ability to draw readers into her stories using dramatic realism. Her commercial and accessible writing style blends with highly riveting and twisting plotlines to craft truly unique works of literary art. Her recent book, Haunted by You, artistically showcases her wide range of writing skills, weaving in romance, mystery, and suspense all in one thrilling book. Her lifelong love of reading led her to earn a bachelor’s degree with a focus on creative writing, which paved the way to writing her own books, including her children’s book, Grandpa’s Boots. Through Louise’s profound character development and realistic storylines, she enjoys entertaining her readers while delivering valuable life lessons in the process. When Louise is not sharing her love for writing with the world, she enjoys reading, going on adventures, and spending her time with her five boys, husband, and various animals on their peaceful 3-acre ranch-style home in the Idaho Falls, Idaho area. In my book review, I stated that I found Haunted by You to be a delightful YA Fiction that is a perfect mixture of suspense and clean romance. And I learned when interviewing Louise that this is part of a trilogy! Genevieve is a teenage girl who falls for Steve, a student at a private school in Charleston and a ghost tour guide. However, their budding romance has to take a back seat to what Genevieve learns about her father - he's being blackmailed! Davis does a good job introducing us to the characters and providing enough details to make us look in all the wrong directions for the blackmailer. And although the ending wraps up nicely, there is plenty of room for more! You can follow Author Louise Davis: Website: https://www.louisedavisbooks.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisedavisbooks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/louisedavisbooks   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   #louisedavis #hauntedbyyou #youngadult #youngadultmystery #mystery #romance #youngadultromance #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Rich LaMonica, author of the book, Out of the Darkness. Rich is a 22-year veteran of the United States Army who was deployed on multiple occasions in support of the Global War on Terrorism. It was during this career he evolved as a leader of people. His education came from great mentors who showed him how to take care of people. He retired in 2015 and went through an entire year of self-reflection as he transitioned to civilian life again. Those 365 days from retiring to finding a job taught him valuable lessons about transition. This has powered his drive to help other veterans as they go through the transition and any other roadblocks they are hitting. He is a Motivated Speaker who discusses Mindset, Resilience, Grit, and more skills that will make you find your Purpose no matter the journey you have been on. He is currently finishing up two books while pursuing a Ph.D from Liberty University in Homeland Security. He lives by rules and has a motto that resonates with fans of How I met Your Mother “Challenge Accepted”. He is the Executive Producer and host of The MisFitNation Podcast. Fittingly, I read Out of the Darkness by on Veteran's Day. In my book review, I stated that this novel follows a fictional soldier, Bull, who is fighting in Afghanistan. We meet each of his team members and several enablers (those who help the team) along the way and discover who they were before they joined the military, what happened during this tour, and the consequences when the tour was over. ​ Although this is a fictional story, Rich uses these characters to help others understand the realities of war - and what soldiers face even when the bullets stop flying. My big takeaway is that our soldiers need - and deserve - better mental health services, and we, as a people, need to do everything in our power to support them, both while they are fighting and when they return home. You can follow Author Rich LaMonica: Website: www.TheMisfitNation.com   LinkedIn: in/Rich LaMonica X: @TheMisFitNation Facebook: TheMisfiNnation Instagram: @The_MisFitNation   Teri M Brown, Author and Podcast Host: https://www.terimbrown.com FB: @TeriMBrownAuthor IG: @terimbrown_author X: @terimbrown1   #richlamonica #outofthedarkness #militaryfiction #afghanwar #militaryhistory #terimbrownauthor #authorpodcast #onlineforauthors #characterdriven #researchjunkie #awardwinningauthor #podcasthost #podcast #readerpodcast #bookpodcast #writerpodcast #author #books #goodreads #bookclub #fiction #writer #bookreview