#ThisorThatThursday Author Interview with Zachary Hagen

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I’d like to welcome author, Zachary Hagen, to the blog for #ThisorThatThursday!

Favorite thing to do when you have free time: Play with my son and relax with my wife.

The thing you’ll always move to the bottom of your to do list: Literally any cleaning task. I despise it. I’d rather keep things tidy than clean later.

Things you need when you’re in your writing cave: I play wordless music, something mildly stimulating so that I don’t lose focus on the writing but don’t get distracted by other noises.

Things that distract you from writing: Frankly, my wife and kid. I try to write later at night when they’ve gone to bed because of this.

Hardest thing about being a writer: Having enough faith in your work to bet money for ads, professional covers, editing, and such to be able to sell the books consistently.

Easiest thing about being a writer: Telling stories you’re excited about. I love getting to dither tell a new story or a new take on an old one.

Things you will run to the store for at midnight: Listen, I know it’s not in the spirit of this list, but nothing is good enough for me to go anywhere at midnight. That being said, I keep sparkling water stocked in my house.

Things you never put on your shopping list: Excess sweets. If I’m going to spend the calories, anything I make at home is going to taste better than anything out of a package.

Favorite snacks: I am a sucker for almost anything peanut butter.

Things that make you want to gag:  Anchovies. With the way they were trending on my feed, I tried them in a calzone. Those little stinkers only have business being where they cannot be directly tasted such as dressings and other sauces.

Something you wanted to be when you were a kid: I wanted to be a writer and a teacher.

Something you do that you never dreamed you’d do: I’m entering into a stage of life where I’m an entrepreneur of sorts, which is way out of my comfort zone, but I’m excited, so I push forward into the unknown, so to speak.

Last best thing you ate: I had this absolutely incredible tomato dish in Remy on the Disney Fantasy this summer, and it completely stunned me. I had no idea tomatoes, of all things, could be so delicious.

Last thing you regret eating: To repeat a theme, a calzone with anchovies in it. I’m never doing that again.

Things to say to an author: “I really enjoyed your last book! If you ever need a review or an arc reader, let me know!”

Things to say to an author if you want to be fictionally killed off in their next book: “I liked the Hunger Games better.” I actually had someone say basically this in a review. It was for a fantasy book, which is wildly different. I wasn’t trying to pass it off as dystopian fiction, but that was the gist of the review. Odd.

The most exciting thing about your writing life: The flow of ideas and the privilege to talk to such amazing people.

The one thing you wish you could do over in your writing life: I wish I’d put more effort into my debut launch and started with more momentum. Now, I feel like I’m catching up, but I also know I can do this.

Recommendations for curing writer’s block: Plot the entire story from start to finish. You can catch the block there. If you know a story beat doesn’t work, you haven’t spent 30k words and hours and hours getting to it. Start with the whole plan, and then everything flows once you know the whole story and the voice you want to write in.

Things you do to avoid writing: Do not ever edit while you write unless it’s a minor typo. If you stop to edit everything, you’ll never finish writing.

About Zachary:

Zachary Hagen is a Minnesota based fantasy author and editor. He lives there with his wife, Claudia, and their dog, Flynn. When he isn't busy writing his next book or working with an editing client, you can often find him walking around his neighborhood or hiking.

From a young age he was enthralled with the world of story. From the stories his parents read to him from his blue bedtime story books (if you know, you know) to the first two series that he read, The Chronicles of Narnia and A Series of Unfortunate Events, Zachary's tastes continued to develop throughout his years of reading.

The influences for his first series, The Eternal Chronicles, include Christopher Paolini, J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, and others.

#ThisorThatThursday Interview with Rachael M. Colby

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I’d like to welcome Rachael M. Colby to the blog this week for #ThisorThatThursday!

Hardest thing about being a writer:

The hardest thing about being a writer is pushing past all the must-do-now’s that beckon to get to my desk. Then quieting their chatter and getting my head in the writing zone.

Easiest thing about being a writer:

I wasn’t aware there was anything easy about being a writer. Especially if the goal is to always learn and grow, and to pursue excellence. But it’s wonderful when inspiration strikes like lightning and I capture it right then.

Things you need for your writing sessions:

Chocolate and ice-cold fruit-flavored vitamin-enhanced water. Of most importance are prayer, God’s presence, and leading. Various Christian music to energize, inspire, or settle me as needed.

Things that hamper your writing:

It weighs on my heart when loved ones go through turbulent seasons or walk treacherous paths. I must remind myself again to place them in Jesus’ capable care in order to focus and write.

Words that describe you:

People call me an encourager. (It’s my joy to encourage faith and help writers.) Artist. Truth seeker. Poet. Problem solver. Strong-willed, passionate and unapologetic about my beliefs. Work-in-progress. Jesus lover.

Words that describe you, but you wish they didn’t:

I considered starting a support group called Overthinkers Anonymous, but since I’m also a procrastinator, that probably won’t happen.

Last best thing you ate:

Lavender blossom bittersweet chocolate bark by Ragged Coast Chocolates in Maine.

Last thing you regret eating:

Brussel sprouts.

Things you always put in your books:

Hope, redemption, encouragement, fun, harmony in diversity shown in nature and relationships. Truth, even when it’s wrapped in fiction.

For Mother’s Day, my daughter gave me a custom-designed embosser for my books. The words on it say, “Imagined with love.”

Things you never put in your books:

I do not include swearing, graphic sex, or violence in my writings. Neither do I write depictions or messages of evil being good, nor promote any behavior that is contrary to biblical standards.

Things to say to an author:

Tell them how their writing encouraged, inspired, or instructed you. Don’t quit.

Things to say to an author if you want to be fictionally killed off in their next book:

When someone says they’re a writer and you reply, “Oh. That’s a nice hobby.” Another is, “You’re just in it for recognition and the money.”

Favorite books (or genre):

I love nonfiction about inspiring lives, people who overcome obstacles, do courageous, seemingly impossible things, and change others’ lives for good. Also books that help me hone my craft and draw closer to God. I enjoy clean reads that make me laugh.

Books you wouldn’t buy:

I don’t buy books that include graphic sex or violence, crude language, or promote lifestyles contrary to biblical standards or that slander good.

Favorite things to do:

Long walks with friends on the beach. Getting lost in a book. Watching sunsets and chasing moonrises with my husband. When my grown kids are all together, I love observing their interactions, listening to their banter and laughter.

Things you’d run through a fire or eat bugs to get out of doing:

Running through fire would frizz my hair, and I work hard to tame it. I prefer 77 degrees and a light tropical breeze—and keep the fire over there. Bugs bug me out, so I’ll pass on those too. (Including when friends had a cicada party and made chocolate chip cicada cookies, salad, and stir-fry with them.)

Maybe to avoid math.

Most daring thing you’ve ever done:

I gave my grandmother’s eulogy, though the minister had denied me permission to do so before the service. That story titled “A Time to Disobey” originally published in the compilation book Mountains Moved: 45 Devotions on Bold Faith, is now also on my website here: https://tattooitonyourheart.com/2025/12/13/a-time-to-disobey/

Something you chickened out from doing:

I sidestepped speaking from a stage during my school years (though it was mandatory) and for my entire life until I started writing. In 2015, an older friend and mentor persuaded me, and trembling, I shared a poem at an event for the first time.

The funniest thing to happen to you:

My vacuum cleaner tried to scalp me. Originally published in the compilation book Chicken Soup for the Soul: Well, That Was Funny, my story titled “A Hairy Dilemma” is now available to read on my website here: https://tattooitonyourheart.com/2026/03/27/a-hairy-dilemma/

The most embarrassing thing to happen to you:

There’s no way I’m sharing that. But I suggest you let your husband watch your kid at church and go to the bathroom by yourself.

Besides writing, what’s the most creative thing you’ve done:

I’ve painted custom scenes of people’s favorite places on the one-to two-inch wooden frames of antique windows. I also scrimshaw on antique ivory piano keys (engraving artwork in ink) to make bookmarks.

A project that didn’t quite turn out the way you planned it:

When my $70 batch of soap cracked and fell out of the mold in several pieces rather than a solid block. But I redeemed it. But that’s another story.

My favorite book as a child:

The Chronicles of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis.

A book I’ve read more than once:

The Chronicles of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis when I was nine years old, at 21, and in my 40s.

About Rachael:

Rachael M. Colby has a heart for reconciliation and a passion to uplift those who serve in tough places. She writes to connect cultures’ questions with Christianity’s answers, inspire faith, and motivate.

She’s a multi-genre, award-winning writer, Cecil Murphey protégé, Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild member, speaker, editor, and the author of Tropical Dreams.

Rachael’s work has appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul, on The Write Conversation, BRMCWC Blog, online publications, compilation books, and the Oak Ridger newspaper.

This Jamaican-born wife and mom resides in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, runs on chocolate and a lotta “Help me, Jesus,” and blogs at TattooItOnYourHeart.com.

#ThisorThatThursday Author Interview with Patti Lee

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I’d like to welcome Patti Lee to the blog for #ThisorThatThursday!

Hardest thing about being a writer: The hardest thing about being a writer is writing. Or more specifically, getting into that magical headspace where the ideas actually come. Sitting down to write is easy. Getting your brain to cooperate? That's the hard part.

Easiest thing about being a writer: The easiest thing about being a writer is writing. Hear me out – it can be both. Once you're in the zone, you've got the ideas, you've got the time, it's quiet, and the distractions have faded away, writing becomes the easy part. Then it's just a matter of getting the story out of your head and onto the page.

Things you need for your writing sessions: I need quiet and uninterrupted time to think, process, and write. My dream would be a little writing retreat where I could be alone when I need to focus, but also have the chance to sit somewhere and people-watch without looking like a creeper.

Things that hamper your writing: Any noise or distraction can derail me. Television, music, people, even my cats – anything can pull me out of the story. Once I’m in that writing headspace, even a small interruption can make it hard to find my way back.

Words that describe you: Some words that describe would be curious, loyal, compassionate and on a good day, witty.

Words that describe you, but you wish they didn’t: There’s too many, so I’ll just go with overthinker. It's a useful trait when I'm editing a manuscript or solving a problem at work. It's much less useful at 2:00 a.m. when I'm replaying a conversation from three days ago.

Last best thing you ate: My grandsons came to visit last week, and we had fluffernutter sandwiches – haven’t had one in years, and it was delicious!
Last thing you regret eating: Other than that fluffernutter sandwich, I think I regret the whole last week of food – hot dogs, chicken nuggets, French fries, candy, cookies, ice cream – I ate like an unsupervised 10-year-old, and my body has officially filed a complaint.

Favorite music or song: I love the soundtrack to Hamilton. I listen to it anytime I’m going to be in the car for more than 10 minutes. I love the way it tells a story through music – the lyrics, the energy, the emotion, and the way the characters come alive. I often wonder how much of the story is based in truth and how much is creative storytelling. I can listen to it over and over, still catch something new, and yet somehow still manage to trip over my tongue trying to keep up with the lyrics.

Music that drives you crazy: Opera would be the music choice that drives me crazy. It’s too hard to understand and the piercing vocals are just too much.

Things you always put in your books: Kids and animals. I think children and animals have a way of grounding a story. They bring out sides of people you might not otherwise see, and they often remind us what really matters. Whether they're making us laugh, breaking our hearts, or quietly stealing the scene, they add a layer of authenticity that I love.

Things you never put in your books: I'm not one to include gratuitous sex in my books. I think a story should speak for itself, and while sex is a natural part of life and relationships, it has to serve a purpose in the story. I'm never going to add it just for shock value or because it's expected. I started writing in 2019, and I’ve learned so much along the way. One lesson that has really stuck with me is that if a scene doesn't move the characters or the story forward, it probably doesn't belong on the page.

Favorite books (or genre): I love women’s fiction books. I don’t need a happily ever after or a burning romance – I want to read about things that others have or could experience, and I want to see how they navigated those situations.

Books you wouldn’t buy: I am not a horror reader anymore. I used to read all the genres, but I figure life as an adult is terrifying enough.

The coolest person you’ve ever met: Well, aside from some amazingly cool friends and writerly types, I have to say Bernie Sanders. Through my 9-to-5 job, I had the opportunity to go to D.C. and meet with some of his staffers, and he graciously took a few minutes to meet with us as well. What struck me most was how down-to-earth he seemed. He was funny and personable, and when one of my colleagues accidentally knocked over a chair, he joked that she was "throwing chairs around." It was such a small moment, but it captured his sense of humor and made him feel less like a politician and more like a regular person. It was a pretty memorable experience.

The celebrity who didn’t look like he/she did in pictures/video: I went to a Melissa Etheridge concert years ago, and at one point she walked through the crowd – literally right past me. She was so close I could have reached out and touched her, although I was way too shocked to actually do it. The thing that surprised me most was how much shorter she was than I imagined. You see someone perform on a stage for years and your brain somehow makes them larger than life. Turns out, she’s actually pretty tiny.

Besides writing, what’s the most creative thing you’ve done: I took up acrylic painting. We moved into a home years ago and I wanted a large piece of art to hang over my sofa. I couldn’t find anything I liked that I was willing to spend that much money on, so I watched some videos and painted one for myself.

A project that didn’t quite turn out the way you planned it: Well, the painting referenced above is a good example. I thought I’d paint a couple of small practice pieces – inexpensive canvas boards – to get a feel for what I wanted, and then just paint the larger canvas. I spent a ton on brushes, paints, canvas and even bought an easel to help with my practice pieces. I ended up not actually ‘painting’ anything since I used a fluid pour process.

The first 8-track, record, cassette, or CD you ever bought: I honestly don't remember the exact first album I bought, but I’m pretty sure it was either the Grease soundtrack or Shaun Cassidy’s first album. I was obsessed with Grease – John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John, singing, dancing...what wasn’t to love? But I also loved Shaun Cassidy from The Hardy Boys, and the minute I found out he had an album, I knew I needed it. I probably used babysitting money to buy whichever one came first.

A type of music that’s not your cup of tea: I appreciate almost all music, but classical is probably at the bottom of my list. I admire the talent it takes to create it, but I’m much more likely to sing along to a good 80s song than sit quietly and contemplate a symphony.

About Patti:

Patti Lee is a Vermont author of women’s fiction. In 2021, she signed with RockHill Publishing, and her debut novel, Between February and November, was released the following year. Her second novel, Tanya, We Have a Problem, was released in 2026.

Patti has been married since 1988 and writes about the kind of situations that can happen to anyone - the unexpected twists, challenges, relationships, and moments of humor that make up everyday life. When she’s not writing or playing with her grandkids, she works as the director of a small nonprofit, where she gets to indulge her love of spreadsheets and lists while keeping her four cats and two dogs well supplied with treats and catnip.

Let’s Be Social:

Website: pattileewriter.com

Facebook: @PattiLeeAuthorPage

#ThisorThatThursday Author Interview with Terrance Niedziela, Jr.

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I’d like to welcome Terrance Niedziela, Jr. to the blog for #ThisorThatThursday!

Hardest thing about being a writer: The hardest thing about being a writer is being disciplined in consistently writing, especially when I'm tired from teaching. Easiest thing about being a writer: world building; I thoroughly enjoy creating complex worlds, races, cultures, flora and fauna, etc. I am able to let my mind go wild.

Things you need for your writing sessions: The first thing, or more specifically the first person I need to create is the Holy Spirit. I pray and ask Him to write through me. Then I need music. Sometimes instrumental, usually worship. I think best when I'm moving, so I need space for pace or act out scenes. 

Things that hamper your writing: The two biggest things that hamper my writing are a lack of discipline and allowing myself to be distracted by insignificant things like doom scrolling social media or binge-watching TV. 

Words that describe you: Words that describe me are: redeemed, adopted son of God, passionate, imaginative, loyal, chivalrous, courageous, and adventurous.

Words that describe you, but you wish they didn’t: Words that describe me, but I wish they didn't are self-condemning and perfectionist.

Something you’re really good at: Something that I am really good at is explaining things that I have an interest in. Something you’re really bad at: Something I am really bad at is being concise. I tend to be a bit long winded.

Things you’d walk a mile for: A mile isn't that far to walk, so I wouldn't have a problem walking for anything. I grew up in the Northwood of Wisconsin in the 80s and 90s, so I am no stranger to walking long distances over rough terrain.

Things that make you want to run screaming from the room: There are plenty of things that make me walk from a room. But I would not run screaming.

Things you always put in your books: Some things I always put in my books and stories are: encouraging messages of redemption, hope, and the goodness of God; the martial arts; complex worlds, cultures, and creatures; and noble, chivalrous characters embracing their destiny.

Things you never put in your books: Things I never put in my work are sex, cussing, and graphic violence.

Favorite books (or genre): My favorite genres are fantasy and science fiction. Books you wouldn’t buy: I will not buy anything with cussing, sex, graphic violence, or mocks God.

Besides writing, what’s the most creative thing you’ve done: The most creative thing I've done besides writing is dressing up in character to teach, do dramatic readings, or a drama. Some examples include: a knight, a scientist, an explorer, biblical characters, a demon, Father Christmas, and a bumbling pirate.

A project that didn’t quite turn out the way you planned it: Up to this point, the projects that do not go according to plan are those I give my middle school students. 

My favorite book as a child: I entered third grade with an eighth grade reading level. Therefore, my reading selections were thick novels. I have read thousands of books, and a large portion of those were read before I turned eighteen. To pick one favorite is a challenge. But one of my favorites was Mossflower by Brian Jacques 

A book I’ve read more than once: A book I have read more than once is The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien. My favorite parts are the riddles and Bilbo fighting the giant spiders.

Your favorite movie as a child: A movie that started me having a passion for fantasy was shown by my third grade teacher Mrs. Theiler, and it is called Flight of Dragons. It was the first time I saw a story about a person from our world going to a fantasy world and the added bonus of knights and dragons gripped me and never let me go.

A TV show or movie that kept you awake at night as a kid (or as an adult): I don't know the name. It was a western and it was the first time I had ever seen someone get their throat cut. I slept with covers over my neck for a long time after that. 

About Terrance:

Terrance Niedziela, Jr. grew up in Wisconsin, USA. He started writing books in the 4th grade, and that passion continued into adulthood. 

He received his BS in Ancient Middle East History with a minor in Creative Writing at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and an MA in English and Creative Fiction Writing at Southern New Hampshire University.

His fiction has earned a first-place Foundation Award at the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference, a Fiction Carolina Christian Writers Award, and a second-place Florida Tapestry Award.

He enjoys spending time with his wife, watching cartoons, reading, being in nature, and seeing his students’ light bulbs turn on. He currently lives in South Carolina with his beautiful wife, Shauna, and their dogs. He teaches English to middle schoolers, writes speculative fiction as well as devotions for The Man Cave blog on Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes' website. In 2024 and 2025, his devotions were included in published devotions.

Let’s Be Social:

Website: https://terranceniedzielajr.com/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/terranceniedzielajr/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terrance.niedziela

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583762891395

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/7391195-terrance-niedziela-jr

#ThisorThatThursday Author Interview with Maria Jane

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I’d like to welcome Maria Jane to the blog for #ThisorThatThursday!

Hardest thing about being a writer: Feeling as if you have to top your last book

Easiest thing about being a writer: Creating characters

Things you need for your writing sessions: Diet Coke, chocolate, and quiet

Things that hamper your writing: Noise, distractions, being hungry

Things you’d walk a mile for: I love walking, no incentive needed. But if you’re asking what things are most important and I’d do anything for, it’d be family, friends, and my dog and cat.

Things that make you want to run screaming from the room: Wet socks, paying taxes, and folding laundry

Things you always put in your books: A happily ever after

Things you never put in your books: Explicit sex scenes or violence

Things to say to an author: I just left a review for your book. (And you really did just leave a review for the book.)

Things to say to an author if you want to be fictionally killed off in their next book: Will you put me in your book?

Favorite places you’ve been: Hawaii, Montana, and Wyoming

Places you never want to go to again: Can this be an event? If so, then I’d say the unnamed worst book event ever.

Favorite things to do: Run, hike, hang out with family and friends

Things you’d run through a fire or eat bugs to get out of doing: Sit through a horror movie, and calculating taxes

Some real-life story that made it to one of your books: I met my husband at work, and not to give too much away, but you know I write HEA’s right, so, the main characters in Perfect Office Pact meet at work.

Something in your story that readers think is about you, but it’s not: In my first released book under the pen name Tricia Copeland, the main character breaks and gets a concussion playing volleyball. I got a concussion at a sock hop.

The first 8-track, record, cassette, or CD you ever bought: Michael Jackon’s Thriller

A type of music that’s not your cup of tea: Opera

My favorite book as a child: Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz

A book I’ve read more than once: Twilight

About Maria Jane:

Award-winning author of Perfect Office Pact, Maria Jane believes in the power of love. Her books are filled with fun moments, sweet gestures, surprising turns, and characters searching for their happily-ever-afters. Craving your next HEA read? Find all of Maria’s Perfect romances, and dive into a mesmerizing love story today at mariajaneromance.com.

Let’s Be Social:

https://www.mariajaneromance.com

https://www.facebook.com/TriciaCopelandAuthor/

https://www.instagram.com/authortriciacopeland/

https://x.com/TriciaC_Author

https://www.tiktok.com/@triciacopelandauthor

https://www.pinterest.com/triciacopelanda/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBHpvjj9L3od2SLTS4zJTjA

https://amazon.com/author/mariajaneromancebooks

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/maria-jane

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22375622.Maria_Jane

https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/oUJIZ4N/mariajaneromance

#ThisorThatThursday Author Interview with Mandy Eve-Barnett 

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I’d like to welcome Mandy Eve-Barnett to the blog for #ThisorThatThursday!

Hardest thing about being a writer: Ensuring I get my story plot, character description, dialogue, scene ideas onto the page before they disappear into the ether. We have all experienced the ‘I’ll remember it’ phenomenon.
Easiest thing about being a writer: When I am in the zone and actually writing and translating the ‘movie’ in my head into words. I have multiple characters past, present and future clambering in my head at all times.

Things you need for your writing sessions: Primarily peace and quiet with good light and the house to myself. I rarely have music playing. I have a dedicated study, which has made such a difference to my process. It is full of inspirational items, copious notebooks and folders for every book idea, as well as reference and research items, and a comfortable chair.

Things that hamper your writing: Deadlines, freelance projects, and book promotion efforts and other life commitments.

Last best thing you ate: A grilled salmon dish at a fancy restaurant. It was perfect – succulent, flavorful and fresh. I miss fresh seafood and fish desperately living in landlocked Alberta, Canada after having daily access when I lived in England.

Last thing you regret eating: A takeout Chinese shrimp dish I ate many years ago in England, which gave me food poisoning. The pain and repercussions were excruciating.

Things you always put in your books: I discovered after researching a deep dive into my story themes that every single book has love within it in all its forms, not just romantic but sibling, parental, friendship and environmental.

Things you never put in your books: Any sort of abuse of animals or children. They are all innocent and worthy of our utmost protection.

Favorite places you’ve been: Top of my list is Rome and will be forever more. I felt my soul had found its home. It is so full of history but also a modern place to live. The food, the siestas, and the way of life is perfect. The Insectarium in Montreal, which is an astounding exhibition of one man’s lifelong collection of the marvelous insects of the world. Paris, is iconic and a wealth of art, literature and romance.

Places you never want to go to again: Las Vegas. It was awful - dirty, noisy, demeaning and a disgusting focus on greed.

Favorite things to do: Time with my grown kids is the top of my list, they are extraordinary people I am proud to call my own, exploring and being in nature, frequent road trips, and, of course, reading and writing (no surprise there!).

Things you’d run through a fire or eat bugs to get out of doing: Going to America anytime soon. Self explanatory.

The coolest person you’ve ever met: Princess Anne. She would attend horse trials every summer in the English village I lived in. She is so down to earth and pleasant. Nigel Havers (English actor) he hosted an annual cocktail party and was charming and personable.

The celebrity who didn’t look like he/she did in pictures/video: Davy Jones (The Monkees) passing him on my local high street years after the fame of the group. His boyish looks had faded, but it was still a thrill.

The nicest thing a reader said to you: Actually it was several asking me to write a sequel to my medieval fantasy novella, the Rython Kingdom, which I thought when I wrote it, was a standalone. They were so enamored of the characters and location, they wanted more, so, of course I obliged and wrote Rython Legacy. Subsequently, I came up with an idea for the villain of the piece and gave her, her own novella, Malgraf’s Dawning later on.

The craziest thing a reader said to you: It was actually while I was being interviewed on a New York radio station. I was asked if I could write the Rython saga going forward to modern day due to the magical powers of the main character’s skipping a generation. This would have meant engaging in a mammoth writing task. I declined and thanked them saying I had too many other story ideas to ‘get out there’.

Besides writing, what’s the most creative thing you’ve done: In high school I created a perspective artwork piece using a very large notice board taken off the school corridor wall. It was a corridor of black and white square tiles going into the distance and papier-mâché entrails at the end. This project and several other art pieces resulted in an offer to go the Royal College of Art in London, UK until my art teacher advised them I was only twelve.

A project that didn’t quite turn out the way you planned it: I’ll be honest here most of my stories don’t turn out the way I think they will – my characters always come up with a better perspective, or plot and I’m happy to detour.

My favorite book as a child: The Story of Hiawatha, which I received as a prize from the Brooke Bond National Travel contest for an art piece I entered at the age of seven. I still have the book event though the spine is tattered, it is a precious keepsake.

A book I’ve read more than once: Ferney by James Long. It is the ultimate reincarnation love story and Galley and Ferney are real people to me inhabiting a place I see in my mind’s eye due to it being so familiar. I wrote my own reincarnation novel, The Twesome Loop as homage to it.

Your favorite movie as a child: This is a really difficult question, I have so many. Mary Poppins, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and The Sound of Music, these were an era of fanciful stories and I loved them. We all need magic in our lives. I think that is why my narratives have such twists in them, it is the unexpected that makes constructing a story so much fun.

A TV show or movie that kept you awake at night as a kid (or as an adult): I made the mistake of watching Psycho, (the original) it had a profound effect on me and installed a real fear into my mind, I didn’t sleep well for a long time, or take a shower without the bathroom door open!

About Mandy:

Mandy Eve-Barnett is an Edmonton Best Seller, multi-genre author, writing children’s, YA and adult books. With eleven books published since 2011, and one more launching in September 2026, and another nine in various stages of completion, her writing life is full. This does not include her writing in numerous anthologies and magazines, and a variety of non-fiction projects through her freelance business as well as presentations and panelist positions at various writing conferences.

Mandy draws on over 10 years’ experience as a multi-genre author, freelance writer and writing community advocate. She is the current Secretary of The Writers Foundation of Strathcona County and Scouting Manager for Relatable Media. And past President of the Arts & Culture Council of Strathcona Council and past Secretary of Alberta Authors Co-operative. She hosts the local Writers Circle monthly meeting and creates weekly writing prompts for the WFSC website.

Mandy has been blogging since 2010 and has over 3,500 subscribers and visitors from 209 countries.

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#ThisorThatThursday Author Interview with A-M Mawhiney

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I’d like to welcome A-M Mawhiney back to the blog for #ThisorThatThursday!

Things you need for your writing experience

I need a silent environment, my laptop, my IPad (for research), a thesaurus, and a notepad to jot down ideas “for later.” I have a studio with a desk facing a large window that overlooks the backyard where I write. Once I close the door, I am in a quiet environment, and the ideas begin to flow.

Things that hamper your writing

Being interrupted when I am deep in the “writing zone” sets me back as I can’t easily re-capture the flow. Like many authors, time is another barrier to my writing. At times life is hectic. Expected and unexpected events occur that take me away from writing. But I would rather be busy than bored, and I can re-schedule writing time.

The last best thing you ate

I have a favorite restaurant in Creston, a small town in British Columbia, Canada, where I visit with relatives annually. There, two weeks ago, I enjoyed a delicious crepe filled with steamed salmon in a rich cream sauce.

The last thing you regret eating

I was served a Thai chicken dish by a family member a few years ago. He had used a jar sauce and cooked the chicken and vegetables perfectly. When I took the first bite my mouth burned with the intense level of “heat.” I put down my fork and signalled to other family members to wait until the chef took his first bite. It turned out the sauce had a warning label showing four red peppers, which meant the sauce was extremely hot. While many people enjoy this level of “heat” it was too much even for the chef!

Things you’d walk a mile for

I routinely take brisk walks for my health, often more than a mile. It keeps me energized, clears my brain and, most importantly, keeps me healthy.

Things you want to run screaming from the room

It’s surprising how often in a social setting that someone will make a passive-aggressive comment, trying to make it sound like a neutral comment or even a compliment. I don’t like to be around that kind of negative energy and would like to flounce out when I encounter it, even when it’s not directed toward me.

Things you always put in your books

I have used social and environmental themes in all three of my books.

Things you never put in your books

I cannot imagine any of my books ending tragically. So far, at least, all three books end on an optimistic note.

Things to say to an author

If you have an opportunity to tell an author that you’ve read their book, almost every one of them, no matter how famous they are, will be appreciative of your comments. If there is an opportunity for a longer conversation than a quick “fan rave,” you might find some authors will request critical feedback, asking if you didn’t like anything about the book.

Things to say to an author if you want to be fictionally killed off in their next book

Pointing out typos and minor editorial issues once a book has been published is something no author I know of appreciates. They’ve already found them.

So far, I have never had the experience where a person’s comment about my book has made me see red. I can imagine, however, a situation where someone goes on at length making nasty comments about an author’s writing. That would make their comments reveal more about them rather than about the book or author. It might, then, be tempting to write them into a murder mystery.

Favorite places you’ve been

In the 1990s and 2000s, I spent lots of time in various parts of the U.K. where I established enduring friendships. It is my favorite place to visit, and I hope to return sometime soon.

Places you never want to go again

Restaurants with loud music with a thumping bass. Most people I know who go out for a meal want to socialize with family, friends, or handle business with colleagues. Yelling over loud music is not the least bit enjoyable. I return to restaurants where I can have quiet conversations.

Favorite books (or genres)

I read lots of different genres but recently have enjoyed fantasy, speculative, historical, and science fiction.

Books you wouldn’t buy

I tend avoid autobiographies by famous people whose personal lives have been filled with endless drama.

Favorite Things to Do

I love spending time with my immediate and extended family and with friends, summers at our cabin by the lake, reading, writing, travelling to new and favorite places, watching basketball, and playing the piano.

Things you’d run through a fire or eat bugs to get out of doing

I am not good with heights. I would rather do almost anything to avoid jumping off a cliff into deep water, even when I know it is safe to do so. I’m convinced I will hit a rock that no one else, ever, has encountered or will be carried away by an unexpected flash flood even though there had never been one before.

Besides writing, what’s the most creative thing you’ve done

After a break of over sixty years, this year I’ve rediscovered the joy of playing the piano. It is astonishing how quickly this came back to me. It is also helpful for my current writing, as the MC in my work-in-progress was child prodigy.

A project that didn’t quite turn out the way you planned it

I bought a knitting kit several years ago that taught me many new knitting stitches, with a new pattern for each block. In total there were 45 blocks. I imagined a beautiful blanket to gift to someone special. But when I started to put it together, I realized I hadn’t been consistent with the sizing for each block. I wound up with a 3x5 baby blanket instead.

Some real-life story that made it into one of your books

I was socially awkward as a child. I knew I didn’t do well in social situations and would have anxious thoughts flood my mind whenever I had to join a group. Some of my characters’ emotions and mental images described in each book are loosely based on my own childhood experiences.

Something in your story that readers think is about you, but it’s not.

I have had a few readers of my third novel, Fugitive Rifts, look at me in surprise when they meet me because I look nothing like a basketball player. In fact, I am the first person to say I have no athleticism at all. The basketball scenes with one character are based on my years as a basketball fan. Trust me, no one who knows me would ever think I had played basketball.

About A-M:

At age eight A-M Mawhiney announced she wanted to be an author. It only took sixty years. Her career, first as a social worker and then as a university professor and senior administrator, ended with her retirement in 2018. She began writing again during the first lockdown in 2020. To her surprise she found herself writing her first novel, Spindrifts. which was a finalist in the 8th annual Rakuten Kobo Emerging Writers’ Prize and shortlisted for the Whistler Independent Book Awards in 2022. Its sequel, Spelldrifts, was released in 2023, and her latest book, Fugitive Rifts, was published in July 2025. When she isn’t writing A-M enjoys reading, taking in local basketball games, time with family and friends, and travelling. She lives in Sudbury, Ontario with her partner Dave.

#ThisorThatThursday Author Interview with Jon Sealy

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I’d like to welcome Jon Sealy to the blog for #ThisorThatThursday!

Hardest thing about being a writer: You have to wear a lot of hats (author, proofreader, project manager, salesperson, accountant).

Easiest thing about being a writer: You don’t need special equipment, safety training, or nice weather to do it.

Things you need for your writing sessions: A good night’s sleep.

Things that hamper your writing: Noise. Ideally, I’m writing in a carrel by a window in an otherwise empty university library.

Things you always put in your books: Three of my four novels to date have a plotline around stolen cash.

Things you never put in your books: I don’t think I’ve ever written about a wedding, which surprises me now that I think about it.

Favorite places you’ve been: I enjoy the outdoors, so Ireland, the Chattooga River, the Minnesota Boundary Waters, and the Colorado Rockies.

Places you never want to go to again: I don’t think I ever need to go back to Nashville.

Favorite books (or genre): I enjoy detective novels and nonfiction about history, science, or theology.

Books you wouldn’t buy: Although I enjoy crime fiction, I’m not all that keen on true crime nonfiction.

The nicest thing a reader said to you: I had an aunt going through cancer treatments say that one of my novels was a welcome distraction to help her get through it. These days, that might be the only reason I keep writing fiction, the idea that a novel can be a gift to someone going through something.

The craziest thing a reader said to you: “Are you going to write a sequel to The Whiskey Baron?”

Some real-life story that made it to one of your books: My next novel, The Night Hawk, is about a dead roofer. My current house is in a new-construction neighborhood, and a few years ago, I heard this tremendous whoomph from two doors down, followed by a bunch of guys yelling. My stomach dropped because it sounded like a construction worker had fallen off a roof. Thankfully, it was only a pallet of shingles sliding off, but the next time I sat down to write, I reached for the nearest idea: What if a guy had fallen? What if it wasn’t an accident?

Something in your story that readers think is about you, but it’s not: My first novel, The Whiskey Baron, is about a bootlegger in a 1930s cotton-mill village, and I think some people have assumed I had an old bootlegger in the family. I do have some family who worked in the Carolina cotton mills, but the bootlegger came about because I needed a plot.

The first 8-track, record, cassette, or CD you ever bought: My cassette tapes are long gone, but I think the first one I got was one of Garth Brooks’s albums from the early ’90s.

A type of music that’s not your cup of tea: I’ve cycled through enjoying most genres (except polka). These days, I don’t care for music with bad psychic or spiritual energy.

My favorite book as a child: Beverly Cleary’s Dear Mr. Henshaw

A book I’ve read more than once: Richard Ford’s The Sportswriter

Your favorite movie as a child: Maybe The Sandlot

A TV show or movie that kept you awake at night as a kid (or as an adult): Tim Burton’s first Batman gave me nightmares.

 About Jon:

Jon Sealy is a Southern crime novelist, book editor, and communications consultant in Richmond, Virginia. He is the author of four previous novels, including The Whiskey Baron. His next project is the Detective Luke Steele mystery series, starting with The Night Hawk (forthcoming September 2026). To start the series, readers can download a free novella, Chasing Keys, from his website at jonsealy.com/free.

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Free novella: jonsealy.com/free

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