Author Spotlight: Matt Leyshon

It has been a few weeks since I have done one of my author spotlights and this week I am pleased to introduce you all to ex-pat Matt Leyshon. Matt recently wrote an amazing book Jack the Ripper: Live and Uncut that he will tell us a little about in a moment, but first I must let you all know that the book is currently unavailable as he has some HUUUUUUUGE news coming soon about an update and a wider audience reach. So WATCH THIS SPACE! 

Tell us about yourself and your books!

I was born and raised in Sydney, Australia, in a suburb called Liverpool. I had always enjoyed writing from an early age but had never extended that passion to the level of a completed novel. 

I moved to the USA in 2004 and have been here since. I have lived in Florida the whole time, (Tampa now), and have a lovely wife and two gorgeous children. I often refer to them as “the greatest story I have”.

My one book at this point, Jack the Ripper: Live and UnCut, is a thriller. My books, (yes a series is being developed), tell of a concept of using time travel to solve cold cases. The book was written with both sides of the fence in mind. Jack the Ripper fans, even the hard core ones, will enjoy the level of historical detail and its accuracy, but it will also entertain readers that are new to the case. I basically wanted to write a decent Jack the Ripper tale but at its core is a fast paced thriller. A whole lot going on, both inside and outside of Whitechapel.

How long have you been writing, and how did you become involved in writing?

I guess the first time I wrote a story and received encouragement to tell stories was when I was six years old. My first grade teacher liked a story I wrote about someone who eats chicken sandwiches with ghosts in a haunted house. Writing has always been a passion I have harboured but never fully embraced. My efforts on this novel, and to become a proper author, are approaching the two and a half year mark, so I would say that is how long I have been writing.

The catalyst for committing to writing was an online tutorial I did called “Masterclass”, a website that has celebrities teach in their given specialty. Mine was conducted by James Patterson and the topic was thriller writing. It was very educational and it was also the kick up the ass that I needed. Another huge incentive was that Patterson was running a competition for his class members; submit a hook, synopsis and sample chapter for a potential novel. The winner got to write their book with James Patterson. I came up with three submissions, one of which was the book I wrote. So that was the original source of inspiration. I didn’t submit it however as it was something I really wanted for myself. The day I heard I did not win his competition was one of the happiest days of my life. I immediately began working on my book, “Jack the Ripper: Live and UnCut”.

What are you working on at the moment?

I am currently one hundred pages deep into the next Carl Axford adventure. It’s working title is “Cult Following: A Carl Axford Mystery”. I have 90% of the story outlined and am finalizing the plot and continuing my research. This book will suggest that several deaths of famous musicians, that were deemed accidental or unsolved, will be linked to a common cause. There is also a present day target. This will also see a lot of expansion on the original concepts in the first book and I am already taking them to new potential, which is always exciting as an author. There are also some sub plots that more or less play out over an arc in the series, so some subplots that were begun in the first instalment will see progress in the next.

I can also say I already broke my promise to write the book in proper sequence, and have written the last chapter of the book. I couldn’t help it. The inspiration came and I had to put it into words while the moment was there. What I can say is that anyone who reads Jack the Ripper: Live and UnCut is going to be grinning from ear to ear when they finish Cult Following.

I have also been thinking about writing a book that is autobiographical. My son was diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum at two and a half , and I wanted to document our journey from birth, to diagnosis, through to where we are today. The working title is Spectrumhood and I really want to tell our story, especially from a father’s perspective. The most valuable information we have been given is from people who walk in our shoes. I wanted to pay that forward. Mrs Leyshon wants me to continue with the Axford series though, so I’m working on that primarily, but Spectrumhood will see publication one day.

Did you have any goals with writing, and if so, how well do you feel you’ve achieved them?  What do you hope to achieve in the future?

As a first time author I think my goals would be consistent with others like me. Some of it is a balance of low expectations, combined with the pipedreams of being a NYT Best Seller.
When I wrote it I simply wanted a book that people would enjoy to read. I hadn’t expected any traction within the Ripper Community as I know how much they like to discuss books with facts and that Ripper fiction has not always represented the case, or Jack, well. As a first time author I had some doubts that my book would be liked but I was proud of what I had written.

The response has been truly overwhelming so far. While sales are nowhere near the “best seller” range, the critical reception has been off the charts. Across the Amazon sites I have nearly 30 reviews to date and only one of them was not a 5 star review. That reader still enjoyed the book. What was even more encouraging is that Ripper publication were unanimous with their praise. They didn’t just like it, they loved it! Naturally I was happy to update my cover and include some quotes from them on the back. I was also invited to appear on Rippercast as one of five authors to discuss Jack the Ripper fiction. My book had been out for less than a month when that invitation came. I have also appeared at Rippercon as a panellist to discuss Jack the Ripper in Fiction. The fact my book received such a warm welcome, to the point of embrace, is incredibly satisfying. For me, this is the demographic that is the most likely to criticize my work so I feel confident all readers will enjoy it.

Finding representation from a literary agent has been difficult as my decision to self-publish in order to solicit feedback has cost the book dearly. But, I am proud to say that I beat the self-published hex and have secured a literary agent. I am extremely happy and excited about moving forward with an agent on the next level. In order to do this I now have to remove the book from publication. A shame, as it had gained terrific traction, but this is what I wanted for the book so an action I have no problem following through with. I have appreciated all of the support and great feedback the book has received. It was a big part in peeking my agent’s interest.

How long does it take you to write a book?

From commencing first chapter, to completion of first draft, Live and UnCut took me sixteen months to write, but that did include a three month break. Being immersed in my research and story was something I would often describe as “going down a dark rabbit hole”. Some people love that rabbit hole, many live in it. I didn’t want that for myself nor may family. My wife and children went on a road trip in which I wrote 180 pages in 10 days. I love them dearly, but man…..I get so much done when I’m on my own!

What are the hardest parts of being an author for you?

Finding the time to do it for sure. My books involve a lot of research so getting the time to do it all is tough. I am a stickler for detail though and want therefore shoulder the burden of research with the realistic approach that its for a good cause. This also has to fit in with a life of being a software techie, father and husband.

What do you enjoy most about being an author?

When you complete the plot for a book and it all fits nicely. I outline my books so I know some chapters I will be looking forward to a lot as well, and obviously with Jack the Ripper you kind of know some things that are coming but I love the challenge of making it fresh and making the reader feel like they have been put right there. My book turns the creep factor up to eleven, the intention is to freak the reader out, not gross them out. On balance I don’t sugar coat what he did either.

One evening I wrote a chapter I had been eager to write for 6 months. I wrote through till 1:30am, but could not fall asleep until 5:00am due to being full of so much adrenaline. I thought, if my readers could feel a tenth of how I did, reading this material, then I would be happy. Subsequently I have heard that people who have read the book have had it keep them up some nights. I actually like that. I didn’t want the premise to set a scene that was gory, I wanted it to be eerie. Gory is disposable, creepy remains with you.

Do you have a spot where you like to write?

I write at a desk in my living room. Typically I just like to write where it is quiet and where I have a decent sized monitor. I finished the book while staying, alone, at a beach condo on the water. I could get used to that.

Besides writing, what do you love doing?

I love my kids and try to be a good dad for them as well as try to be a good husband. As for me I am a huge movie buff as well as a sports fanatic….at least for some sports. I miss the accessibility of some Australia sports as American tv doesn’t cover them with the same enthusiasm. I try to watch my beloved Wests Tigers whenever I can though.

What books or authors have had the most influence on you as an author?

I have several, and all for different reasons”

Martin Cruz Smith – Writes so beautifully and with great philosophy. His Arkady Renko novels are all masterpieces and he is so quotable with his description of places or people. Also the way he shows his main character evolves through his various stories but also how Russia changes along with him. He is literary God to me. I can easily pick up a Renko and read it.

James Patterson – James is the ultimate page turner. Usually when you read a Patterson you make short work of it, mostly because you don’t want to put his book down. One thing he said that I loved was when he tells a story he doesn’t want to hear somebody say “that’s great” he would rather hear somebody say “I’d like to read more”. That is Patterson in a nutshell and he is the master of stories that propel forward and at a quick pace.

Ben Elton – I love Elton as I have been a fan of his humour for decades. When he branched out from television and wrote novels I have enjoyed not only every story he writes but also his variety. He has written satires, murder-who dunnits, thrillers and always has great social commentary in every novel. He also has great humour in his books which is expected given what he gave to tv viewers.

Dan Brown – I love the Langdon series. What impresses me so much about Dan Brown, when I first read Angels and Demons, was that this book would make a terrific movie. I have felt that way about all of the Langdons. Needless to say I was very happy to hear that they were doing exactly that, and have done with three of them. When reading Brown you truly picture a scene playing out in your head. What I also like is Brown doesn’t dwell on getting to know the hero. Robert Langdon is a likeable hero but we don’t connect with him necessarily. We do become invested in his adventure though and want to see him succeed and it is through the journey that we learn little bits about Landon. I also appreciate that in those books it is Langdon’s talent that ultimately helps him progress through a mystery. The story is moved forward by what he knows and what he is good at. I like that a lot. I also like that Brown is not afraid of tackling a topic that knows will court controversy. He researches his books well, weaves history into a great story, but one that is ultimately fiction. Brown on his own admission concedes that these are stories……..not preachings to base a belief structure on.

Very honorable mentions are Edgar Allen Poe and William Shakespeare. Both capture the drama of horror or tragedy so profoundly. Their work has been the template for everybody that followed them.

What did you find most useful when you were learning to write and expanding your skills? 

Definitely the importance of having an outline, for me it was massive. There were some chapters that I didn’t get to write for months and I was relieved that I had placed a lot of relevant information in there and not have to research it again.

While writing the story I did develop other characters and device plots that were not in my outline, so I went back and added them in. An outline is a great tool, sometimes your best friend, but its completion should never signify the end of creativity for your story. It should be a balance of structure and spontaneity.

What are your thoughts about ebooks vs. print books?

Always preferred print books myself, but I can definitely relate to why people prefer eBooks. For personal reading I prefer paperback or hard covers, if I’m purchasing books for research I will predominantly go with eBooks mostly on the convenience of the delivery but also I usually buy a lot of books and it’s tough keeping them all on my desk.

What are your thoughts about self-publishing vs traditional publishing?

It’s down to the author. My preference is the traditional route, but the market is so saturated now it’s very hard to break through. As a first timer I wasn’t sure I had a decent book, so I opted to self-publish, in order to seek feedback (validation). Once I saw the reaction was great, especially from professionals in the industry, I sought to query agents. Sadly the phrase “self-published” pretty much condemns your book to instant rejection, at least in the US it does. Thankfully I found an agent that saw past that.

I see benefits of both. Self-publishing does offer you more freedom to promote it, it gives you creative license over the story, but it is all truly down to you. In spite of it all I do prefer the traditional route as I believe it is the route more likely to lead to being an author full time.

How often do you write, and how do you find or make time to write?

I try to put something in every day, whether it’s writing, research or outlining. How much time is subject to different factors, mostly when my kids are asleep. The majority of my book was written between 10:00pm and 2:00am.

Do you plan your whole book out in advance, or just let it flow? What does your writing process look like?

I outline most of it, especially if I have to include research notes, or develop plot lines or twists. Coming back to those months later is very handy. I normally establish “plot beads” which are chunks of the narrative or twists in plot, the major things. I then work on a way of threading them together. Cult Following will have a thread that involves multiple ciphers. I’m glad I locked the details of that away prior to writing it. When it comes to completing those chapters I’ll be golden.

What's a typical working day like for you? When and where do you write?

9:00 - 6:00 Work as a Solutions Architect

6:00 – 8:00 Have dinner, hang with the kids

10:00 – After insomniac daughter finally goes to sleep begin writing.

Do you ever get Writer’s Block? If so, how do you deal with it?

I did, once during Live and UnCut. I had hit one of the most critical parts of the book but realised I had a lot of research to do if I wanted to portray the next few chapters how I wold have wanted. The first chapter I had written in the book was chapter 37, which covered the Eddowes murder. So I picked up from there and wrote through to the end. I then had a 15 chapter gap to fill. Strangely, I didn’t fill the gap from chapter 22 through to 37, but went from 34-37, 31-34 and so on. Writing in the gap was like the movie Memento in a way.

Do you read your own reviews? If so, how do you deal with bad reviews?

Yes I do, because feedback is very important. If it’s positive feedback, you not only learn what you’ve done right but you also feel validated in the effort, research and risk you put into to producing the book. If it’s negative, you learn from that also in order to improve and put out a better product. You’re not going to make everybody happy but sometimes praise or criticism should definitely be noted. You have your own instincts but your readers voices should guide you a little as well.

Fortunately for me the story has received no bad reviews. I have received 5 stars, across the board, with the exception of one 3 star review from a reader, which was still complimentary. I did however receive criticism for the original cover. It seemed like a good idea at the time as I wanted something that got a reader’s attention but it was too confrontational and did not represent the story inside. The cover was doing the book a disservice and there was no lack of people willing to let me now. I owned all of it though and sought out a new cover that represented a mainstream thriller, still included Jack to a minor extent and show my main character’s purpose. I think the new cover got it right this time. 

The feedback is a lot more positive.

It was not my artist’s fault, he delivered what I had asked and in hindsight I did not make the best call there.

I guess this all leads to an answer of I do listen to both criticism and praise.

Other than reviews, do you hear from your readers? What kinds of things do they say?

Yes! I LOVE talking to my readers. A: I love hearing their feedback and discussing what they loved about the story. What plot twists they enjoyed the most. I also like to impart some stories behind the book. There are some cool research stories to be told along with some others that may give up spoilers.

I make myself completely available to readers and encourage them to reach out. Whether that is somebody who knew me before reading it and was surprised by what they read, or a sceptic who doesn’t like Ripper Fiction or time travel fiction but loved the book. A convert is my favourite reader as I know they did not approach the book with enthusiasm but came out on the other side a fan is terrific. I recently had somebody, I had never met, post on Facebook “Better be good, just purchased.” Later that first day they had added to their post that they had done nothing all morning except read my book. She is now a FB Friend, we talk regularly, and she recently described the book as her “favourite read of 2018”. As an author you have to love hearing that your work won somebody over like that.

The big thing for me is I want to hear why people came across the book and where that has progressed to. Some readers knew me personally, some love reading Jack the Ripper books. What I enjoy hearing after the book has been read is that they love the characters, the ideas, and that they will be back for more. They are saying they enjoyed your story and want to hear more. The sense of obligation is gone. I need to get Cult Following completed as there are a many readers wanting to see what happens next. Unfortunately, now that I am beginning along the traditional route, it will be difficult to gain any new readers/fans, but readers are now encouraged to lend their copy out to their family and friends.

What are some ways in which you promote your books?  What have you found most or least effective?

Various ways. I have done a couple of book signings in stores and intend to get that going again. I use Social Media but I am yet to see the influence it can be. It can translate to presence but not necessarily sales. Maybe that does come later, we’ll see. A good example is I ran a Facebook Promo and accidentally selected it to run on Instagram instead. I received nearly 2,000 likes for my picture but If there were sales from it I don’t think it would have been more than 2-3 books. I have a lot to learn in this area though and am trying to educate myself better.

I was invited on Rippercast, the main Jack the Ripper related podcast as a guest panellist to discuss Jack the Ripper Fiction. I was also invited to Rippercon, the Jack the Ripper Conference in the US. Again, I appeared as a panellist to discuss Jack the Ripper in fiction. I will also be appearing at a few more conventions, speaking on panels and trying to promote the book and myself further. My book has been nominated for several awards. Fingers crossed I do well in one or two of those as being an “award winner” suggests distinction from the pack.

I have created a website and am starting to channel everything through there. At first I didn’t have enough happening to create a decent amount of content. Now I think I do and with the website will also come a newsletter. The website also played a critical part in escalating intrigue from my agent.

How easy or hard do you think it is it to make a living as an author?
Speaking for myself, it’s hard. I think that would apply to any Indie Author. Attracting a reader base is one thing but another issue is that promoting your book comes at a cost most of the time. People charge ridiculous fees to simply review your book. A review should never cost more than the price of the book and the expense to ship it to them. Others charge money to promote it, critique it, proof-read it. If you want to enter your book into an awards contest, there is typically a fee, if you want it to progress through various channels you pay membership fees. For an Indie Author there are a lot of overheads. We’ll see what the future holds now that all of that is about to change.

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to be an author?

Do it! Being an author is all about wanting to tell the stories you have inside you and if you feel you have a story to share then get typing. The most important thing is if you believe in your story then believe in yourself.

What I will say as well is it’s a long road, with hard work. Very few authors strike jackpot with their first book and seeking representation is a battle you need to prepare for. If you want this, there are thousands, millions even, that feel it as well. You have to think about what makes you different, what makes your story better, and fight the good fight using that arsenal. If you wish to find an agent I have had many people tell me it’s a marathon, not a sprint, and that’s true. I ran the sprint and wished I had taken the path with greater resistance. Finding an agent takes time. Authors who find an agent in less than 30 rejections are the exception, not the rule. Many of the great authors were rejected many times. Even when you find an agent, they take the same fight you fought to publishers, so finding an agent is getting to first base, it’s not running into home plate.

For all the work and frustrations there is so much good stuff. Hearing from somebody that they loved your book is a beautiful thing. Being an author is like golf basically….there are a lot of times the shots don’t go your way and you become frustrated to the pointed you want to break a club in half. Then you have a couple of moments that make up for all of that. In the end you say to yourself, “maybe I’ll come back for another round”.

Tell us a random fact about yourself

Random eh…….ok. I eat price tags. I love eating price tags, and I love how they taste. A lot of new ones have holograms and other shit, but the old fashion peel away ones! Yeah….I love those. It’s a habit I never grew out of :)

 How can readers find out more about you: (Fb, Goodreads, website links and such)

Website:  https://matt-leyshon.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100018687133566   (Author)

https://www.facebook.com/JTRLiveAndUnCut/   (Book)

Twitter:  @mleyshonauth

YouTube (Promotions Clips)
Trailer Clip - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKtKNMu_J-U&t
Critical Reception Promo Clip https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MaW9jEtdqIM&t

Author Interview: Award Winning Belinda Missen

Welcome to Belinda Missen, this week's feature author.

Belinda Missen began her writing career following a decade in retail and a further five years in the transport industry, Like most of us, she realised where her heart belonged and she decided to take a break and return to her first love, writing.

After her works were read by approximately fifty thousand online readers, she finally decided to put the figurative pen to paper and write her first novel. While she enjoys writing contemporary romance fiction, she can also be found freelancing for websites, and twisting dark, psychological thrillers together.

In April, 2016, Belinda won the Inspire 26+ Category in the Australia-wide JOLT Courthouse Youth Arts Awards for her short piece "Obsessions".

She's currently working on novels four, five and six. So, if you're looking for her, she's likely buried under a pile of paper somewhere. Belinda lives near Geelong, Australia, and is an active member of the arts community.

Thank you Belinda for stopping by today.

Can you tell us a bit about you as an author? 
Writing is always something I've done. It started as a young child writing Jurassic Park fanfic, before I even knew what fanfic was. I stopped writing for a few years, and did the whole 'busy being an adult' business. I worked in retail for ten years, and transport for a further five. After leaving transport, I kind of floated a bit for twelve months, and the writing bug got me again when a character turned up and introduced himself. It's been non-stop ever since. To this day, I still write fanfic (though I'd never tell anyone how to find it), because I love how much of an audience gauge it is. You can see what does and doesn't work simply by their reaction.

What are the hardest part of being an author? 
Hmmm there's a bit of a list there. There's being your own boss, which is awesome. But, at the same time, it means you're the one responsible for getting yourself into gear each morning. For the most part, I love this, just not when I'm lacking inspiration. What do you enjoy most about being an author? The freedom, the creativity, the friends and connections I've made, and getting to write my own story. What authors/books have had an influence on your writing? There are heaps of authors that I love, that have had an influence on me. As a child, I loved Roald Dahl. As an adult I still do, but I also enjoy Mhairi McFarlane, Lindsey Kelk, Cecilia Ahern and David Nicholls.

Do you ever get Writer’s Block? If so, how do you deal with it? Do you believe there is such a thing? I think there is a bit of a writer's block thing. 
When I went to London last year, I was there for six weeks. The entire time I didn't even want to write, though I forced myself to keep a blog. When I got back, though, the words poured out.

Do you have a particular place that you like to write? 
Depends on how I'm feeling. Most of my writing happens after ten p.m. I work into the wee hours of the morning, but I don't mind a rainy day, in the car, by the beach. Recently, I've become a fan of sitting down at the You Yangs and bashing out some words. Last time I was there, I wrote a short story that became a screenplay that weekend.

Do you have a favourite time of day to write? 
After ten p.m. when the world is quiet. How do you like to reach your readers? (Social media? Book signings? Blogs etc) Social media is good, but can be tricky. It's really hard to gauge an audience. I do giveaways, they vary in their effectiveness. I've done one book signing in a wine bar that ended with me converting profits into espresso martinis. That was an amazing night.

Can you tell us about your latest book?
I write romance, which I'm always a bit remiss to announce. People seem to think romance = Fifty
Shades of Grey. I don't do that. It's not my thing. I really do just like good things happening to good people, so all of my books are light, fluffy romance. My latest one is a bit of a play on the old Captain von Trapp and Maria situation, a grieving widower meets young upstart, sparks fly, and things get crazy. It is third in a series of books that I called BookEnds. I think I chose that at the time because I was going to bookend the series with a book about a character I wrote called Red.

How long did it take you to write the book? 
This one has taken a while. I wrote the first draft about two years ago, and it's undergone numerous rewrites since. I've recently ordered a proof copy and, the next morning, decided I still wasn't happy with it. So, back to the drawing board again. This new rewrite is packing the punch it needs to.

Do you have a favourite character/topic in your work? 
Red seems to be a fan favourite. He was my first book, and he's resonated with a lot of people, which I love. What was your process? Did you plot out the entire book, or just let the storyline flow?

Do you write in chronological order?
No plots. Not even always chronological order, but it helps. I generally get an idea for two characters, they're what turn up first. Then their settings and situation, and I go to work from there.

Do you have plans for further instalments? 
I'm trying to get some more Red together, but I don't want to force it. So, there are plans. How soon they'll eventuate is anyone's guess.

Do you have a plan for your next book? 
I've just worked out the next four, despite the fact I've got another ten or so books in various stages on the computer. I had an idea for a set of four books during the week. I'll run with that for now.

Ebooks vs Physical books? Do you have a preference when reading? 
I do prefer paperback, I don't think there's much better in this world than paperback books. However, if I think I may not like a book, or it's outside my regular genre, I'll get the eBook first. If I love it, I'll go out and get a paperback.

Self-publishing vs traditional publishing? What are your thoughts? Do you feel that the industry is changing?
Honestly, I'd love to be traditionally published. I think there's a bit of... pride (if that's the right word?) in being able to say you're tied to, say, Penguin, or Random House, etc. On the other hand, I love the freedom of creation that I get through self-publishing. I am my own boss, and everything happens how I want it to.

 And finally, what advice would you give to aspiring authors?
Keep writing and keep reading. That's the only way you're going to get better. I went on a reading binge in early 2016, and stepped away from the books for a bit. I read about twenty novels in six weeks. When I came back, I could see the difference in my writing. Also, surround yourself with the right people. You need the right advice, the right support, and the right family and friends. If they're not into what you're doing, it'll just make life hard, really..  


Thank you so much for that Belinda. I found it really interesting and I hope our readers did too.

If you'd like to know more about Belinda and her writing, please look her up on the various social media platforms listed below:
Website: www.belindamissen.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BelindaMissen 
Twitter: www.twitter.com/BelindaMissen
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/BelindaMissen/e/B00UWR51MS
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/bmissen

Again, thank you so much for stopping by. If you are interested in being interviewed for this blog, please drop me a comment. Also please don't forget to subscribe to ensure you see each week's interview.

Author Interview with Karen J Carlisle

Welcome again,

Today’s author is Karen J. Carlisle.

Karen J Carlisle graduated in 1986, from Queensland Institute (now University) of Technology with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Optometry. She lives in Adelaide with her family and the ghost of her ancient Devon Rex cat.

Karen first fell in love with science fiction when she saw Doctor Who as a four-year old (she can't remember if she hid behind the couch). This was reinforced when, at the age of twelve, she saw her first Star Destroyer. She started various other long-term affairs with fantasy fiction, (tabletop) role-playing, gardening, historical re-creation and steampunk - in that order.

Karen writes speculative fiction including steampunk, Victorian mystery/crime, gaslight and fantasy. She published the first of The Adventures of Viola Stewart series, Doctor Jack and Other Tales, in 2015. She has has had articles published in Australian Realms Roleplaying Magazine and Cockatrice (Arts and Sciences magazine). Her short story, An Eye for Detail, was short-listed by the Australian Literature Review in their 2013 Murder/Mystery Short Story Competition.

Karen's short story, Hunted, is featured in the Trail of Tales exhibition in the Adelaide Fringe, 2016. She currently writes full-time and can often be found plotting fantastical, piratical or airship adventures. Karen has always loved chocolate - dark preferred - and rarely refuses a cup of tea. She is not keen on the South Australian summers.

Thank you for joining me today on the blog Karen. 

Can you tell us a bit about you as an author?Why didn’t I do this earlier?! (well I did. Sort of.) I’ve always loved books. When I was in high school I wrote a SF/comedy – typed on my portable typewriter. It’s in the shed. Somewhere. I was gently persuaded to follow a stable (paying) career, did university and spent the next twenty-seven years being an optometrist. During this time, I wrote research articles for historical re-enactment and costume newsletters. I had articles published in the (now defunct) Australian Realms (Roleplaying magazine). I even did some artwork for a local indie comic.

Life happened. I put away my pens and continued in Optometry.

In 2012, life hiccupped in a most spectacular manner, resulting in leaving my current seventeen-year position. Let’s just say I needed a massive sea-change. I was advised to follow my bliss. There was no question what that was – writing and art. So, after a few false starts, I found myself writing again.

In 2013, I entered over twenty short story competitions. I was short listed in Australian Literature Review’s 2013 Murder/Mystery Short Story Competition. This year, I was asked to feature one of my shorts, Hunted, in the Trail of Tales exhibition in the Adelaide Fringe.

I not only write steampunk (Victorian steampunk mysteries, steampunk adventures and gaslamp) and fantasy – all of which have proven cathartic and excellent anxiety-busters – but also do my own photography, artwork and book trailers. Art + writing = my creative heaven!

What are the hardest parts of being an author? 
My chief issue is procrastination, procrastination and health issues, procrastination, health issues and not enough time to write all the stories I get ideas for.

Er…

My chief issues are procrastination, health issues and not enough time to write all the stories I get ideas for. And my proclivity for Monty Python quotes.

Seriously though, fighting procrastination is a constant battle for me. I am often found spiralling down the research rabbit hole, and enjoying the ride (there are so many fascinating things in the world!). Health issues are an ongoing issue; I suffer from anxiety (reason for quitting my previous career), anaemia and recurring migraines. This has led to over two months lost writing-time so far, this year. I’m just about to have major surgery which (hopefully) will help relieve some of the underlying causes.

Some writers fear running out of ideas. I have enough to last the next decade (and possibly beyond, if they all pan out). I have notebooks full of scribbled titles and story seeds and boxes (both digital and physical) to compile notes for various projects. I need to constantly remind myself to finish one project before flitting off to new adventures and characters. This is one problem I hope I will never lose. (see previous comment on writers’ fears of running out of ideas.)

What do you enjoy most about being an author?
I love creating and I love learning. When I don’t create, I get grumpy (just ask my husband). I feel complete, I am less anxious. And I can’t deny the buzz I get when someone likes my characters or stories.

Research rabbit holes are a two-edged sword. I learn something new every day, which comes in handy for quiz nights. I love the serendipity of finding a fact, which sparks an idea, which (in turn) leads me on a trail of discovery. So many of my stories get filled with little tidbits I find on my journey. It’s like weaving a tapestry – and I love it!

What authors/books have had an influence on your writing?
Realistically, every book I have read has influenced me – even the bad ones. I was an avid reader of Doctor Who and Star Wars novels, as a child. I love the epic themes of Lord of the Rings, the adventure in Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files, Gail Carriger’s humour, Simon R Green’s voice… I could go on.

Do you ever get Writer’s Block? If so, how do you deal with it? Do you believe there is such a thing?
Yes. I’ve read so many articles on writers’ block. It’s a curse. It’s not real. Go for a walk. Get over it. Everyone has a theory. Whatever you call it, I get stuck – usually in the ‘soggy middle’ or when I know I have to do something I don’t want to (like kill a character). I usually switch gears and write a short story, do a writing challenge (where I have to work to a brief), read a favourite book, watch a favourite movie or television show. Mainly, I drink copious amounts of tea and scoff down dark chocolate while the original story bubbles away in my subconscious until it is ready to spill.

Do you have a particular place that you like to write? 
I have a standing desk with a view of the front garden. At the moment it is covered in notes. I have a sewing table that gets bathed in light, with a view of the garden too. Right now I am sitting at the kitchen table, watching the birds in the back garden. When the weather is pleasant I write under the verandah, with a view of the back garden. Is there a running theme here?

Do you have a favourite time of day to write?
In the morning and early afternoon, before school pick up or in the evening. I often get inspiration late at night (especially after a long, hot shower). I really should get more sleep.

How do you like to reach your readers?
I love meeting people. That was the great part about my old career. I love to gasbag. I attend local steampunk events, local conventions and do talks. Most of my social media conversations revolve around FB, twitter or various forums.

Can you tell us about your latest book? 
My latest book is the second set of Viola Stewart’s adventures, Eye of the Beholder & Other Tales. It is a Victorian steampunk mystery with elements of gaslamp. It will be released as two eBooks – Three More Shorts and Eye of the Beholder (novella), followed by a paperback compilation, Eye of the Beholder & Other Tales. I wrote out of my comfort zone with Three More Shorts, which has a strong romance theme – a comedy of etiquette. Eye of the Beholder returns to the gaslamp feel with mummies, murder and madness.

Blurb:
The Men in Grey return – with plans for Viola.
Will the lure of technology seduce Viola? Will she lose Henry forever?

With her friend, Doctor Henry Collins, at her side Viola runs foul of mummies, curses and the paranormal. But this time, the threat of Bedlam looms over them…

How long did it take you to write the book?
Technically about a year. Actual writing time was six months. As a self publisher, I also do my own photoshoots, cover art and design, film and edit my book trailers. Then there is setting up marketing (which I am still learning).

Do you have a favourite character/topic in your work?
I am increasingly drawn to psychological ambiguity of stories. How characters manipulate others. Villians are intriguing. They are the heroes of their story. If I can just get the reader to understand the villain – for even just a second – I am ecstatic. It’s the “oh poor, Jack… you evil bastard” moment. I love to show their point of view – show both sides of the story and let the reader make up their mind who they are rooting for.

What was your process? Did you plot out the entire book, or just let the storyline flow? Do you write in chronological order?
Hi, my name is Karen. And I’m a (mostly) pantser. I enjoy the discovery of a story. My process goes like this:
· Get an idea or title

· Scribble down notes and shove them in a folder. I will often have a ‘feel’ for the story, a visual – like the opening scene of a movie, an idea for a gadget, a specific plot point I want to weave in, or a plot twist.

· Do background research – usually on the original history of an event, person or area involved in the story. I like to check scientific facts (I even bought a book on the Chemical Analysis of Firearms, Ammunition, and Gunshot Residue.)

· I write down ideas I get for characters, possible clues or plot points as I go.

· I usually have an idea of characters (sometimes they come to me complete with names and faces), sometimes they are vague ghosts

· Sometimes I just start writing.

· Most stories are in vague chronological order. I will skip some scenes due to procrastination or its vision hasn’t yet solidified in my mind’s eye. When things are progressing well, I can see the story, complete with music track, and occasionally the dum, dum, dum of the cliff hanger.

· I wish I could plot more. It would speed up the process.

Do you have plans for further instalments? 
Journal #3 of The Adventures of Viola Stewart is scheduled for release in 2017. It will complete the Viola-Henry relationship and address the long story arc concerning Viola’s sister, Anne. (Spoilers!). I won’t rule out future adventures or short stories.

Do you have a plan for your next book? 
The next series planned is The Department of Curiosities, set in the same steampunk world.

A steampunk tale of adventure, a heroine, mad scientists, traitors and secrets. All for the good of the Empire.

Ebooks vs Physical books? Do you have a preference when reading?
Physical books: I get eyestrain reading eBooks. I love the smell of books. I do have eBooks – mostly reference or shorts, but I will buy a physical book if I get the option and can afford it.

Self-publishing vs traditional publishing? What are your thoughts? Do you feel that the industry is changing?
I self-publish. I did a lot of research on this very question. The industry is changing. Traditional publishing doesn’t provide the same level of editing and marketing as in the past. Most require the author to do their own publicity. If I’m going to do most of the effort, I would rather self-publish and get a better royalty for my effort, even if that means the hassles of doing my own marketing.

I get the freedom to create my own covers and trailers and control my own deadlines. This allows me to work around my anxiety and health issues. I may be a control freak, but self-publishing creates less stress as I am not being pushed to adhere to others’ timetables.

And finally, what advice would you give to aspiring authors?
Write because you love it. Not because you want to make a fortune. That doesn’t happen often. Only 5% of those who want to write, actually write. Of that, only 5% finish their story. Don’t give up. Write your story. Finish your story. That puts you ahead of the pack.

Write because you love it

Thank you so much for appearing on my blog today Karen. I have found this very interesting and I think readers will too. So how can readers find you?

Website: www.karenjcarlisle.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/KarenJCarlisle/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/kjcarlisle
Amazon Author Page: www.amazon.com/author/karenjcarlisle
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/KarenJCarlisle

  

Thanks again Karen for joining me today on the blog. Please go to her listed links and check her out. If you'd like to be interviewed on this blog or have a great story to tell please drop me a line.

Until next time.

Cheers!

Amanda Howard

A Killer in the Family - Cover Art

After emailing the publishers today with an update on how the book was coming along and I soon got a response from them with several cover art options. It is always my favourite part of writing. That is, seeing how my work translate in someone else's imagination.

I was quite thrilled with what they had done for me and the various different ideas. It certainly gives a boost to the poor old writer sitting alone away from the world. It shows that others are working on the same project.

I can't wait to show everyone the final artwork once it's all final.

Cheers

Amanda

A Killer in the Family - My next book

It is with great excitement that I received news from a publisher, New Holland, with a commission to write a book for them regarding how killers become killers. The book will examiner what makes a killer, whether that be a sexually motivated killer, a serial killer, a bomber, or a homicidal cult leader.

So far my investigation has shown some interesting points and clues as to what makes a killer.

A Killer in the Family (working title), will be released in time for Christmas.

Signing off,

Amanda

Serial Killers - Have they lost their Fame?

I have been researching serial killers for twenty years. I have spoken to some of the most heinous humans across the world. There was a time when serial murder was a main focus of pop culture.  With killers such as Dahmer, Gacy and Bundy taking up news space, many people could not get enough of hearing the gruesome details of murder. Yet I am finding that slowly, the interest has waned. Yes there are prime television shows such as Dexter and The Following that still propagate the serial killer genre, but killers themselves have fallen from the news.

Serial killers are being recognised and/or caught often, yet the interest in such cases is no longer there. Recently the next big thing in crime circles has been the locked away woman, taken as children by their fathers or strangers they were hidden from the world and raped for decades.

Serial murder is not what it once was. Of course this is a good thing, but one has to wonder about what else is happening out there when a multiple murderer no longer shocks.

The Light At the End of the Tunnel

The light at the end of the tunnel is not a train, but the completion of my very first novel. I just typed the last line of my book. Of course, until I am happy I will continue to tweak and twiddle away, but in essense it is done.

I am so happy. I sat here with my laptop beside me and cried. I have never felt that before. It was an amazing sense of achievement. Yes I know I have written six other books, but they were all true crime, the information was already there. I just had to interpret it and get it down on paper.

This time, it was from my own head, my own story, my own characters, my own novel. I did it.

Jayant Patel - A Man Freed or A Man Gone?

What is it with judges? Do they not have any idea about the real world?

It has taken authorities several years to bring suspected killer Jayant back to the Australia to prosecute him for crimes committed here against patients under his care. It has probably cost tens if not hundreds of millions of dollars to finance the search and capture of the now infamous fugitive, after he fled the country the first time.

Finally, we watch news footage of him arriving back in the country and what does the first judge do?

Release him back into society, and how long will it take him to flee the country this time? No doubt he has probably already fled, heading to some backwater country that has no extradition treaty with Australia.

I ask you, who in their right mind, would grant a suspected killer and proven flight risk bail?

I am flabbergasted by it all. The police and investigators do everything they can and then judges go and screw with everyone's plans. It is nonsense.

I shall continue to scratch my head over this one.