20 Questions With Your Favorite Author
By Cursed Dragon Ship Publishing
20 Questions With Your Favorite AuthorMay 12, 2021
Ep 80 - 20 Questions with Susan McCauley
Susan McCauley was so awesome she’s now in my writing group. It’s so awesome when you meet someone and it turns out you’re neighbors. Go meet people! That’s the lesson here. Susan is a talented author who never says no to a business opportunity. She writes scripts as often as she writes manuscripts. We don’t have enough middle grade authors on this podcast. Well, you’re in luck. Susan has a Ghost Hunter MG series and you’re going to love it. Learn more about Susan at http://www.sbmccauley.com.
Ep 79 - 20 Questions with J.D. Astra
J.D. Astra started her first book when she was ten and actually finished it when she was fourteen. About writing she says, “It never gets easier, but it does get better.” As a member of our D&D stream on Monday nights, Jess told us why she likes the storytelling aspects of D&D so much. Her character came from her new release Monster Haven. You’ve got to pick up these books. They’re quick reads with a lot of heart—and spreadsheets for all you LitRPG fans. To learn more about Jess and the magic she makes with words, check out her website www.astralscribe.comor follow her on www.facebook.com/theastralscribe.
Ep 78 - 20 Questions with Chris Kennedy
Chris Kennedy had the best stories. We had so much fun I kept forgetting what I was supposed to be asking him. So, naturally, this was one of the best shows we’ve had. Chris shared cool background info about his books and his writing journey as well great advice for writers out there still trying to make it happen. Also, Bar Con is the best. What am I talking about? Tune in to find out. To follow Chris, check out https://chriskennedypublishing.comor follow him on Facebook @ckpublishing.
Ep 76 - 20 Questions with Michal K. Falciani
Michael K. Falciani was so easy to interview we kept getting off topic. Though since the subject was Michael, I guess not very far off topic. He told us about teaching PE to elementary students as well as his rebellious writing practices. This author isn’t just entertaining, he’s also nominated for some prestigious awards. The audiobook version of the first book in The Raven and the Crow series is up for an Imadjinn Award, while his second book is in the first rounds of the Dragon Award. You know you’re on the right track when your book is winning in all the right places. To learn more about Michael, check out his website https://michaelkfalciani.comor follow him on social media @michaelkfalciani.
Ep 75 - 20 Questions with Megan Mackie
Megan Mackie is well on her way to producing a series in every speculative fiction category you can imagine. Her cyberpunk urban fantasy thriller started with a scene she had in a dream. Still, she had to write multiple books before she even got to that original dream. That’s just the tip of the iceberg for Megan’s incredible creativity. She’s also a mainstay at multiple pop culture conventions. Look for her suave leather hat and you’ll find her. To learn more about Megan, follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok @meganmackieauthor.
Ep 74 - 20 Questions with Dennis Galloway
Dennis Galloway is a best-selling author and student of the world. He shared his historical fiction take and why the details need to be accurate so people with short attention spans like me can enjoy the tale and maybe learn something on the side. Dennis writes just as many non-fiction novels as he does fiction, due to his need to help people whenever he can. He even offers free consultations for aspiring writers is.gd/becominganauthor. Make sure to check out his audiobooks which include music, sound effects, and multiple voices. They’re more like an audio play and really immerse you in the experience.
Ep 73 - 20 Questions with Kit Falbo
Kit Falbo writes GameLit with a twist. Actually, everything they write has a twist and we talk about why in the interview. His stories cover: a technomage working for intergalactic peanut magnets; a Mini-game obsessed card collector with an EX and a heist; a teenage chess hustler dipping into a fantasy VR world to grind for profit. Kit recommends some amazing ice cream I must try and refuses to answer the zombie question. You’ll have to listen to find out why. To find out more out Kit, checked out their website http://kitfalbo.com.
Ep 72 - The Guardian Launch
The Guardian Launch
Ep 71 - 20 Questions with Darin Kennedy
Darin Kennedy is a doctor-by-day and novelist-by-night. He’s also a huge music and art geek. Both interests are used in his Fugue and Fable series. We talked about why he chose Russian composers and why chess was the perfect vehicle for his Pawn Stratagem series. He described why he started to write while serving as a doctor in the military overseas. Darin had so many stories we had a great time, and we’re totally hanging out next Dragon Con. You should join us. Until then, follow Darin at his website darinkennedy.com.
Ep 70 - 20 Questions with Kim May
Kim May writes fantasy, sci-fi, thrillers, historical fiction, steampunk, and a bit of poetry, because she collects genres like a cat lady collects strays. She is a retired stage actor and has a penchant for fast cars, high heels, and loose screws. We talk about where she’d like to visit and unhelpful health advice she’s received. Also, did you know K-drama musicals were a thing? Find out more about Kim at https://linktr.ee/KimMayDay.
Ep 69 - 20 Questions with Gama Ray Martinez
Gama Ray Martinez is a gifted storyteller with an adventurous spirit. He tells us about his adventures scuba diving as well as love of mountains. We dive deep into his new release, God of Neverland, though he has other series ready for your enjoyment as well. I’m just a bit obsessed with the Defender of Lore novel and can’t wait to read the rest in the series. To learn about Gama, follow him on FB @GamaRayBurstor IG @GamaRayBurstor Twitter @gamaraymartinez.
Ep 68 - 20 Questions with Frank Morin
Frank Morin had so many stories to tell, no wonder he’s such a prolific writer. His contemporary fantasy thrillers will keep you entertained with their humor and drama intertwined in magical adventures. Frank tells us about his international travels and how they ended up in his books. He loves to hike and wears awesome hats whenever he’s at author events. If you join his newsletter, you’ll get the first book in two of his series. Sign up here: https://www.frankmorin.org/readers-group-signup/. Follow him on FB https://www.facebook.com/authorfrankmorin or Instagram @morinwrites.
Ep 67 - 20 Questions with C.J. Anaya
This one is a treat for all you Happily Ever After fans. C.J. Anaya is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of young adult romantic fantasy and adult contemporary romance, a writing coach, a freelance editor, and an incredible guest. She’s fun and smart and quick witted. We talk about her Fated Mates series as well as her Healer series. Wanna know what she watches to relax or what movie love scene she would re-write? Well, tune in to find out! To learn more about C.J. check out her website http://authorcjanaya.comor follow her on Twitter @ CJAnaya21 and FB https://www.facebook.com/cjanayaauthor.
Ep 66 - The Last Humans Launch
The Last Humans Launch
Ep 65 - 20 Questions with Rob Howell
Rob Howell is a writer and an editor and a publisher and an awesome podcast guest. He gave us advise for submitting to anthologies along with an invitation to submit a short story to his next one: Bonds of Valor. Check out chriskennedypublishing.com for details. He talked about his history as a medieval academic and as a soda jerk. (All the milkshakes you can drink? Where’s the downside?) We spent a lot of time on the new Eldros Legacy, a multiverse within a fantasy setting. This new adventure with five key authors writing on unique continents that are interconnected offers a plethora of reading for those avid consumers of books in your life. To find out more about Rob and his many endeavors, check out www.robhowell.org.
20 Questions with B.B. LeClere
You get two for one on this episode with guest author B.B. LeClere, a father-daughter writing team. Bill and Becca playfully argue over whose name is represented by the first B. These two are seriously dedicated to reenacting that all started with the purchase of a magic sword. They’ve taken their passion for history and added zombies to a mysterious rash of deaths in The Secret War of 1835. Check out their website to learn more about them: bbleclere.com.
20 Questions with Debbie Manber Kupfer
Debbie Manber Kupfer creates word puzzles. How cool is that? She also describes her P.A.W.S. shifter series with headquarters all over the world pulled from her own travel experience. I’m so excited about the next project she’s working on. Don’t miss her answers on zombies and ice cream. We hit all the classics. To learn more about Debbie, check out her website http://debbiemanberkupfer.wordpress.com/. You can also join her newsletter to get a free story: http://eepurl.com/cRhORP.
20 Questions with Rachel A. Brune
I had a great time with Rachel A. Brune this episode. She told us how she went from “who, what, when, and where” reporting to creative writing. With a specialty in short stories, Rachel tells us the victories and challenges of choosing to tell tales in that format. We share a love of Supernatural and Anne McCaffrey. To learn more about Rachel, check out her website http://www.infamous-scribbler.comor follow her on social media @rachelabrune.
20 Questions with Patrick Dugan
Patrick Dugan was a true delight. If he lived closer, we’d probably hang out all the time. He loves breweries and dragons and World of Warcraft. What’s not to like? Patrick told us about his 3D printing hobby—or writing procrastination tool, depending on the day. He has some awesome worlds he’d like to write in and some awesome worlds he’s already created. If you like superheroes or steampunk fairies or fun, Patrick is the author for you. Make sure to follow Patrick on FB @patrick.dugan.3781 or IG @patrickduganauthor or Twitter @P_Dugan.
20 Questions with Aaron Michael Ritchey
Award-winning author, Aaron Michael Ritchey was under the weather for our recording, but you would never know it. He was entertaining and quick-witted and silly and serious. I’d expect nothing less of a man who writes about a kid turned into a mushroom monster to train to fight the “heroes” before they ruin everything. Aaron has some of the most powerful fan stories we’ve heard so far as well as a creative answer to his favorite ice cream. To learn more about Aaron, visit his website at www.aaronmritchey.com and he just loves Facebook. Find him at aaron.m.ritchey.
20 Questions with D.L. Young
D.L. Young writes cyberpunk and near-future dystopian. For such a dark subject and such a serious profile pic, D.L. turns out to be charming and thoughtful. We maybe go off on a Star Trek tangent, because, well, it’s Star Trek. His new series is a space opera after all. We learn about his author idols and how he can still skateboard without falling on his face. To learn more about D.L. Young, check out his website dlyoungfiction.com .
20 Questions with Nathan Ameye
Nathan Ameye has so many hobbies he was a blast to interview. When you get an author who never stops learning new skills, you can be assured his novels are rich with the details of his many endeavors. It makes everything more real. You’ve got to find out how he keeps track of his stats for his LitRPG Fae Nexus series. So creative. Nathan tells us the tale of a haunting in a canyon when he went Jeeping. We talk about fun times with other authors and learn how important it is to network. To find out more about Nathan, follow him at https://www.facebook.com/NathanAmeyeAuthor.
20 Questions with Jay Boyce
Jay Boyce entertained us with her bright hair and her bright personality. She was honest about some hard times she’d been through that inspired her main character in her LitRPG Touch of Power series. Find out about her dice and wig habits. Jay is nocturnal which means she was onfor the interview and I just had to hold on and enjoy the ride. I want to ride again. To learn more about Jay, check out her website www.jayboyce.com or follow her at https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorjayboyce.
20 Questions with Mike Jack Stoumbos
Mike Jack Stoumbos is a multi-talented creative with skills in drawing and singing and writing, which is of course what we mostly talked about. His space opera series, This Fine Crew, beginning with The Signal Out of Space, being top of the list. But we also talked about his experience with theater, his teaching career, and how playing D&D influenced his writing. To learn more about Mike, check out his website at https://mikejackstoumbos.com or follow him on FB at https://www.facebook.com/MikeJackStoumbos . He also has a YouTube channel if you want even more: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPpY0RHOUXNk-YkZZ6PElog.
Illusions of Decency Launch
Welcome to a special edition of 20 Questions with your Favorite Author. Tonight we have the book launch of Illusions of Decency, the fourth book in the Misplaced Mercenaries series. For your viewing and listening pleasure, we have the visually striking cover artist, Lena Shore, the deep-throated narrator Christopher C. Kelly, and the ever-critical developmental editor, Kelly Lynn Colby. And, of course, we have the always irreverent author Kevin Pettway. Follow Kevin at kevinpettway.com and make sure to join his newsletter there. You’ll thank me later. Lena is available for covers as well as other graphic work. Check her out at lenashore.com. For the talented Chris, check out his website at blanketfortvo.com and follow his channel on twitch.tv/blanketfortstories.
20 Questions with Jon R Osborne
Military science fiction and fantasy writer Jon R. Osborne leads a talk on the joys of beer. He also tells us about his unique trip to publishing. The theme? It’s never too late. Jon’s even working on a rpg handbook using the Four Horseman Universe as its inspiration. To learn more about Jon and his creative endeavors, check out his author profile on Amazon or follow him at https://www.facebook.com/jonrosborne.
20 Questions with Dakota Krout
Our guest this week is Dakota Krout, fantasy writer and owner of Mountaindale Press. Dakota has appeared in the New York Times for reaching the top 10 bestsellers for audiobooks on Audible, has been featured in Business Insider, and graced the cover of Indie Author magazine. He has sold over two million copies of his books and audiobooks. And somehow he is one of the nicest and most humble authors I’ve spoken to yet. He has some great advice and some fascinating stories. Follow Dakota on any of these social media accounts:
- MountaindalePress.com
- Facebook.com/TheDivineDungeon
- Patreon.com/DakotaKrout
- Twitter.com/DakotaKrout
- Discord: https://discord.gg/C3mEUSJ9CS
20 Questions with Jae Mazer
Horror author Jae Mazer loves to write creature horror, which is perfect for us because we love to read it. Learn how she chooses her creatures and which ones have impacted her the most. Jae tells us how her clinical psychology background helps craft her characters. Find out why Swan Song by Dean Koontz is her favorite book. She has the most surprising favorite ice cream answer ever. Not sure we can even be friends anymore. Are you curious now? Check it out! To learn more about Jae, you can find her on social media @JaeMazer, everywhere except TikTok.
20 Questions with Shami Stovall
Our guest this week, Shami Stovall entertained us with her love of gaming and passion for both science fiction and fantasy. A reformed lawyer, Shami decided to write to bring something more cheerful into the world than the suffering she saw in the courtroom. Well, she has succeeded with her Frith Chronicles and Star Marque Trilogy. Make sure to check out Shami’s newest adventure, The Final Decree. To learn more about Shami, follow her at https://twitter.com/GameOverStation/ or https://www.facebook.com/SAStovall/. If you want to learn about her next release first, you’ll find it all on her website: https://sastovallauthor.com/ .
20 Questions with Rick Partlow
Rick Partlow moved all the way to Wyoming from Florida just because he wanted to take cool pictures of the wildlife there. Oh, and he also writes powerful military science fiction. I mean, how can you not want to learn more? Rick engaged with the chat and all of their poignant—okay silly—questions and we all had a blast. To keep up with Rick’s ambitious publishing schedule, join his newsletter https://www.subscribepage.com/o1m0u1or follow him on FB www.facebook.com/dutyhonorplanet.
20 Questions with Kaitlin Bevis
Kaitlin Bevis spent her childhood curled up with a book and a pen. If the ending didn’t agree with her, she rewrote it. That healthy habit led to a career writing her own stories that mainly deal with Greek mythology where the heroines of those stories definitely needed better endings. Kaitlin’s Daughters of Zeus series starts with Persephone, a modern day, young adult retelling of the classic Greek myth. Kaitlin adores cats, is learning to love a specific dog, and hates to cook. She’s also a delight to talk to. To learn more about Kaitlin, check out her website www.kaitlinbevis.com.
Leather and Sage Launch
Leather and Sage Launch
20 Questions with D Gabrielle Jensen
D. Gabrielle Jensen loves things that begin with the letter "C" - coffee, cats, cities, conversation, concerts - and things that don't - airports, macro photography, urban decay, macro photography of urban decay, and the beauty of flaw. If you think that’s unique, you should check out her interview. Des writes urban fantasy that fights back with your emotions. You’ve got to give her Fia Drake Soul Hunter series a read. To find out more about Des, check her out on your favorite social media @writerdgabrielle.
Legion of Dorks Presents: Misspelled Launch
Legion of Dorks Presents: Misspelled Launch
20 Questions with Claire Winn
Claire Winn had a fully checked geek card which made her a blast to interview. Her debut YA sci-fi novel, City of Shattered Light, promises to thrill and make us think. We talked about cosplay and LARPing and I learned a bit more about anime. Claire makes her own costumes which always impresses me. Make sure to follow her now; she’s got a bright future ahead in the field of fiction. You can keep up with her shenanigans at https://twitter.com/Atomic_Pixie
Accidental Murderer in Apt 34 Launch
Accidental Murderer in Apt 34 Launch
20 Questions with Jace Killen
Luckily, Jace Killan had nothing better to do but be on our show and answer my inane questions. In all honesty, the man works five jobs, while raising five children, spending time with his wife of 23 years, and maintaining a healthy outdoor lifestyle. Oh, and he writes some stellar books in both the adult thriller and middle grade genres. Jace has a fascination with languages and antiques. Listen to find out why. To follow Jace, check out his website http://www.jacekillan.com or follow him on FB @JaceKillan.
20 Questions with Seressia Glass
Author of contemporary, paranormal, and urban fantasy, Seressia Glass thrilled us with her tales from Egyptian mythology woven into her stories. We talked about her dogs and her struggles with 2020. Seressia and I were on a panel together at Dragon Con. So, of course, we talked about conventions and the inherent fun in such events. She captures much of that joy and challenge in The Love Con about a plus-sized cosplaying blerd in a cosplay show competition set to release in December 2021. To learn more about Seressia, check out her website www.seressiaglass.com or follow her on Twitter @seressia.
20 Questions with Diane Lindmark
Nothing could stop Diane Lindmark from writing. She fought through dyslexia and unsupportive relatives until she broke through and made the dream happen. Now she has almost 60 books published and awaiting publication. She’s extraordinary. I would tell you what genre she focuses on, except she doesn’t. She’s got something for everyone. We shared our love for the geeky world and how much success Diane has had with selling her books in person. To learn more about Diane, check her out on her website http://sirbloodstone.wix.com/dianelindmarkauthor. You can also follow her on FB @dianelindmarkauthor and Twitter @DianeLindmark.
20 Questions with Daughter of a King
In this special edition of 20 Questions with your Favorite Author, it’s a book birthday celebration! JM Jordan welcomes her book baby into the world, Daughter of a King. As the developmental editor, I had a bit more to contribute for this episode. And we were honored to have A.M. Rose featured since she was the proofreader who helped polish the finished manuscript. The book is a YA prelife fantasy with a touch or magic and a whole wagon full of sisterly triumph with a touch of royal intrigue thrown in for color. Enjoy the party for the beginning of Huldah and Flora’s story. Then pick up your copy at https://curseddragonship.com/daughterofaking.
20 Questions with Mark W Stallings
For our first second appearance on the podcast, we could hardly ask for better than Mark Stallings, even if I continue to pronounce his name wrong. (The “a” is like stallions not stalls.) We did record this the day before we both left for Dragon Con, hence that event was talked about heavily. Of course, I asked him about his own work in Wuxia fantasy and his experience working with a small press. I have to confess that at Dragon Con, Mark recruited so hard for this little podcast that I have guests for almost the whole next year. So give Mark a shout out and don’t forget to leave him reviews. Check him out on his website https://www.markstallings.com/index/.
20 Questions with Stevie Rae Causey
We had a great time with Stevie Rae Causey. She feels quite strongly about positive messages in young adult and middle grade fiction and tells us exactly why. Her dogs and children give her incredible story ideas. Listen to the podcast to find out how. She might have had the best second grade teacher ever. Gretchen, her co-host on her Exceptionally Average Authors podcast, stopped by in the chat to give us some insider info. To find out more about Stevie, check out https://www.instagram.com/stevieraecauseyor her podcast at https://anchor.fm/eaaea .
20 Questions with Steve Ruskin
Steve Ruskin bounced around subjects from one interesting aspect of his writing to another. As an historian, Steve uses his knowledge and love of history’s minds to create incredible works of alternative history. He’s also written best sellers in nonfiction about past scientific events. His creative soul feeds his active life. This one will surprise you. Find out more about Steve on FB www.facebook.com/SteveRuskinAuthoror his website www.steveruskin.com.
20 Questions with Emily R King
Our guest this week, Emily R. King, is a reader of everything and a writer of fantasy. Her Wings of Fury novel grabbed me so hard I was almost late for the broadcast. So we had a great time talking about that world where Emily extrapolates what life must have been like for the humans when the Titans ruled before the Olympian gods took control. She tells us all about her fascination with sharks which led to her new shark thriller currently in the drafting stage. Emily’s answers for her favorite food and place she wants to live sparked fun little tangents. To learn more about Emily, follow her on Twitter or Instagram @Emily_R_King or check out her website at http://emilyrking.com.
20 Questions with Helen Savore
Helen Savore, writer of Arthurian fiction, shares why she feels so passionately about this particular mythos. She folds origami—cranes and dragons and knights, oh my—to keep busy in meetings and to spread love at conventions. Find out what else she does for fun and why so many writers do notchoose vanilla as their favorite ice cream flavor. To learn more about Helen and her work, check out her website http://www.oberonsforgepress.comor follow her at https://twitter.com/ImaPaperNinja.
20 Questions with Kevin Pettway
The ever-entertaining Kevin Pettway graces us with his thoughtful answers for this episode. We learn where he grocery shops and why it’s important for research. His ridonkulously cuddly dogs make an appearance as well. If you’re only listening to this one, you’re missing out because we reveal the cover for book four of the Misplaced Mercenaries series, Illusions of Decency. Kevin tells us how he came up with his multiple magic systems and he shares the fun he’s had working with his narrator for the audiobooks. To follow Kevin and join his newsletter, check out https://kevinpettway.com.
Broadcasted live on Twitch -- Watch live at https://www.twitch.tv/curseddragonship
20 Questions with Trisha J. Wooldridge
Trisha J. Wooldridge owes me three drinks. Also, she’s a hugely inspirational writer and editor who will move you with the way she views writing and how horror is an important genre for healing. Trisha adores horses and gives us some great stories about her rescues. She’ll be at Dragon Con this year, so come on out and say, “Hi!” To learn more about Trisha, check out her website www.anovelfriend.com.
Broadcasted live on Twitch -- Watch live at https://www.twitch.tv/curseddragonship
20 Questions with DM Gilmore
DM Gilmore had the most meaningful answer to our first question I’ve heard yet. With his, I would call it healthy, obsession with dragons, both of his series Lazy Scales and Centre of Magical Affairs feature characters who are also dragons. We talk about how his cold Canadian weather has turned Texas hot and how too many conventions are still canceled. Most importantly, Dan calls himself a friend to monsters. Want to know why? Check out this interview! To learn more about Dan, check out his website https://dmgilmore.carrd.co/.
20 Questions with J Lynn Else
For episode 31, we featured my friend and fellow nerd J. Lynn Else. Jess tells us all about her love for both Arthurian and Egyptian mythology. She talks about her early Star Trek fan fiction that started her on the path of her original works. If you don’t watch Twitch or YouTube, make sure to do it this time. Jess let us reveal her gorgeous cover for book three in her Awakenings series: Destiny of Avalon. To raise the stakes, I was a horrible host and made her choose between Yoda and Grogu. Let me know what you think of her answer! To find out more about Jess, check out her website www.teasippinnerdymom.com or follow her on FB @teasippinnerdymom or Twitter and IS @JLynnElseAuthor or her new TikTok @jlynnelse.
20 Questions with DJ Bodden
D.J. Bodden is either Batman or a CIA agent. We never got a straight answer for the record. One way or another, he has a lot of stories to tell about his life and his career in IT and as a writer. Yep, we eventually get around to talking about his science fiction centered FiveFold Universe and his foray into GameRPG. I think we’ll have to have him on a couple more times to get at all the good stories. For now, enjoy D.J. and his inspirational take on the world. To learn more about D.J. check out https://www.facebook.com/FiveFoldUniverse or https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDJBodden.