An Interview with Kay Davis

An Interview with Kay Davis

Blog Tour

Kay Davis is a published author with a passion for helping women and young ladies become who God called them to be. With a degree in psychology and certification in natural healthcare, she is committed to inspiring others to achieve total health and wellness in all areas of life—body, soul, and spirit. She is also the founder of Wai of Life™ (translated from the Hawaiian language to mean Living Water) which is based upon these premises. She has been writing for over 20 years and released her first book— Watered by the Vine: Daily Devotions for Single Women in 2014, which landed on Amazon’s best sellers list shortly after its release. This book was born out of the intimate times she spent with God during her singlehood journey. Both single and married women reported being blessed by this book. God impressed upon her heart to write Rock Your Pearl! for teenage girls to inspire them to raise the standard for their generation and generations to come.

Where are you from?

I am originally from Chicago, IL; currently residing in Charlotte, NC.

What inspired you to write your first book?

I have been writing for more than 20 years and always knew that one day I would write a book.  I had already been keeping a journal of different things God poured into my heart over the years and at the right time; He inspired me to put it in a book to share with the world. 

Do you write full-time or part-time? How do you balance your writing life with your family/work life?

Over two years ago, I was laid off of my corporate job of 12 years. I knew this was my opportunity to finally sit down and write my book!  So for two years, I was a full time author.  Now that I am back in Corporate America, I write part time.  Writing is my first love, so every free opportunity I get; I take the time to write.  I have been able to find that delicate balance between family/work life.

What are your current projects?

Currently I’m working on expanding the platform of my two books.  I’m completing the audio book for Watered by the Vine and I’m in the process of creating companion guides for Watered by the Vine and Rock Your Pearl.  I’m also, looking forward to the release of a book that I co-authored, early 2016.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

I wouldn’t change anything in my latest book because I truly believe that everything God laid on my heart to say was put into the book.  I poured my heart and soul into Rock Your Pearl and I hope every young lady that reads it feels that from me.

How do you overcome writer’s block?

When I’m not in my most “creative space,” I focus on my ‘administrative’ work-cleaning up (structuring, organizing, formatting) what I already have. My work has to be authentic, it cannot be forced. When I get my creative bursts I ride with them, that’s when my most authentic self comes out. Sometimes it hits me in the middle of the night and I wake up and flow with it. The adrenaline is the creative juice I need to overcome writer’s block.

What was the most fun part of writing your book?

I would say the most fun part of writing both books is seeing it all come together. It’s watching it blossom from the seeds in my heart to a complete piece of work.

Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

My favorite author is Joyce Meyer. What strikes me about her writing mostly is her transparency, authenticity and relateability.  It’s as if you’re sitting down having a cup of coffee, chatting with a close friend. Her work is powerful and impactful and that’s what I strive for in my writing as well.

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

The hardest part of writing my book was the editing and re-writes.  I got to a place where I would second guess myself-did I say too much or too little about a topic, wondering if my point was stated clearly enough, adding to my writing, taking away from it, etc., The hardest part was knowing when to stop, then turning it over into the hands of someone else. 

Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

I learned that writing a book is truly a process. It’s not just putting a bunch of words together, then calling it a book. After the book is finished, there is still work to be done. It takes a lot of time, dedication, and nurturing but it is truly rewarding.

Do you have any advice for other writers?

My advice for other writers would be to definitely get feedback from someone you trust that will tell you the truth. It could be a critique group of local authors or family and friends. I would also advise starting a focus group made up of your target audience. If there are specific points that you want to address, make sure you ask those reviewing your work if the points came across during their reading. If there was a tone you wanted to set, ask them if they felt the impact. This will help you adjust what needs to be adjusted for your readers.  After that is done, get a professional editor. Not only are they another set of eyes, but they also know what to look for and will help fine tune and polish your work.

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

To my readers: I pray that you hear my heart in every word you read and that you are edified, enlightened, and better than you were before.

Do you have an agent or publisher? How did you go about finding one?

I do not have an agent or publisher but I have learned it is difficult to do everything on your own and is not always the best choice. I have found that utilizing the skill set of others (graphic design artist, editor, marketer/promoter, etc,.)  is the best way to showcase your work in its best light. A team is important in the success of your book.

If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

I would live on a beach that’s beautiful, quiet, and tranquil where I can relax and be at ease; but close enough to a city with all of the amenities and convenience.

Connect with Kay:

Twitter

Facebook

Website

Synopsis:

Rock Your Pearl!

Young girls today are growing up in a culture where anything goes. Right is wrong and wrong is right; they are lost and confused about which standard to follow. Those that want to keep their virginity feel isolated. Some are on the fence and likely to bends towards the "new normal." Others have given up their virginity and now feel it's too late for them, unaware that they can begin again.
Rock Your Pearl! will encourage teenage girls to honor, celebrate, and embrace their virginity or celibacy in a crazy, mixed-up world. It will inspire the younger generation to reach towards a higher standard for themselves than is currently being represented in today's culture. Author Kay Davis wants teen girls to understand that just like the pearl, they are valuable, and just like the pearl, their purity is admirable.
Whether you are a teen looking for some guidance or a parent looking for a powerful resource to help you talk with your teen about the delicate subject of sex, there is help for you inside this book!

Teen Readers will be packed full of:
-Encouragement
-Knowledge
-Wisdom
-Hope
-Practical and Biblical Insight
-Support and Guidance
-Love and Acceptance

Watered by the Vine: Daily Devotions for Single Women

Are you a single woman that is frustrated, discouraged, sad or lonely wondering why God has not sent your "perfect mate?" Or, are you a woman that chooses to remain single and are often ostracized, criticized, and judged because of your marital status? Watered by the Vine is a single woman's guide to finding purpose and fulfillment in life as a single woman. 

Embracing your singlehood can be both beneficial and worthwhile if you have and keep the right perspective.This highly inspirational daily devotional for single women takes you on a profound 365 day journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and motivation to help you live a complete and fulfilled life as a single woman. You will be richly endowed with spiritual and practical wisdom as you navigate through the singlehood journey.

With a quick boost for each day of the year, you will be:

* Encouraged
* Uplifted
* Challenged
* Inspired

Purchase links: 

Order your copy of Rock Your Pearl here!

Order your copy of Watered by the Vine here!

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“The Fabliss Life of Bella Mellman” ~~Blog Tour~~

“The Fabliss Life of Bella Mellman”

~~Blog Tour~~

1.       When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

I used to want to be a painter, and have a degree in Fine Arts and have shown my work at various galleries. But once I began to write seriously, in my early forties, I loved the process so much. I continued doing both and make art occassionally but I much prefer writing. I have illustrated my first book myself; so the two can work together. 

2.       Do you write full time?

I write almost every day. It’s not a chore. When I can’t write, I don’t like it.

3.       How does this book differ from your other series’?

This is my first book in a series; The Fabliss Life of Bella Mellman Book Two is well on its way.

4.       Describe your main character?

 Bella Mellman is almost seventy. She’s had a full, rich life. She is opinionated, passionate and energetic. She hates being told she looks good for her age. She lives on her own and cherishes that she doesn’t have to share her life with anyone irritating (like one of her ex husbands or boyfriends).

5.       Who would you choose to play that character in the movie version?

There are so many wonderful actresses who are older. I adore Angelic Huston, Helen Mirren (my publisher loves her best).  Jacqueline Bisset suddenly came to mind. She’d maybe too gorgeous (for any age). Rene Russo was Fabliss in Night Stalker. I like Diahann Carroll and Pam Grier, but Bella’s supposed to be white. Still Hollywood can fix that.  Dianne Keaton … maybe? Jean Smart? Joan Collins (I think too old now). Bette Midler … love her!

6.       Who is your favorite author?

 I do not have a favorite author. I like reading books in which I learn something. This makes for many authors, as so many write about things I don’t know. I am not the kind of person who re-reads books or goes to movies more than once. I know that every single person who manages to write a book does something that is difficult and brave. Especially brave.

7.       Do you have any advice for other authors?

I think the hardest thing is to find out what you want to write about, especially if you love the process of writing. But you can always begin writing about yourself, what you feel and think and your interests or passions, and that can segue into something different. That’s how Bella began, with a memoir that segued into a character that segued into a whole Fabliss Life. A novel, NOT a memoir. 

8.       Anything you’d like to say to your fans?

I love you all. Anyone who likes me and my books  … love you!!

9.   What’s next for you?

 I am writing The Fabliss Life of Bella Mellman Book Two and it’s well on its way.

10.   If you could live anywhere, where would that be?

As I have moved around the world a few times, I am always thinking of other places to live that might be nicer than Los Angeles.  Los Angeles is too hot, too dry and has too much traffic although the pending El Nino might change the dry part. When I went on vacation to The Big Island of Hawaii about ten years ago, I fell in love with the place. I even went to look at property to rent or buy, but my daughter, with whom I am very close, wasn’t as struck. I like living close to my family and they all live near me in LA. But if I win the lottery or have my book bought by a movie or TV studio and make a fortune, I’d like a holiday home in either Hawaii or The French Riviera. There is good reason so many rich people – through the ages – like the Riviera; it’s heavenly. But you have to speak French. And despite having French lessons for years at The Alliance Francais, I can’t understand hardly a word when French people talk. And with my accent they probably won’t be able to understand me that well either. And seeing as language is very important to me, I think I’d have to live in an English speaking country. Maybe back to live in England, not London, but somewhere in the gorgeously green country (it’s green because it rains a lot).

11.   If you could choose a super power, what would that be?

 I would like to live forever. I would like to see how my grand children and their children grow and so on and on.  Or maybe to fly like a bird? I love birds, and find them so fascinating. They are much smarter than we think. In fact they are probably smarter that we are, in their birdy ways.

Biography

Born in South Africa, married, two children, divorced.
Off to London, back to South Africa, mistakenly and briefly married.
The: 1987 to The United States, landing in Beverly Hills.
Writes, paints, knits, re-arranges decor, cooks, exercise a bit, reads a lot.
Loves animals and abhors animal cruelty!
Interested in just about everything except sport.
Has opinions about everything including sports.
Loves friends old and new, family near and afar.
Love ... the answer.
_____________________________

Education: Fine Arts Degree, University of The Witwatersrand.
Showed art at various galleries in Johannesburg, London and Los Angeles.
Advertising copywriter, Johannesburg.

The Fabliss Life Of Bella Mellman spins a bold tale of a savvy woman of the world who gives a rollicking social commentary on life in the flats of Beverly Hills, men, “mature” dating habits, and the odd complexities of love, sociopaths, marriage, divorce, and living a creative life. The book also looks at the role of the older woman, her place in the sexual panoply, which has been so horribly simplified. Bella Mellman, a transplanted South African artist and writer, lives a ‘fabliss’ life (as her 8-year-old grand-daughter tells it) in the flats of Beverly Hills. A long-time divorcee nearing the seventh decade of a very full life, Bella is constantly annoyed when friends, and even strangers, ask the impertinent question of “Why, don’t you have a partner?” Followed by the hated phrase: “You look quite good for a woman your age.” The only thing to do, Bella realizes, is to write a book that explains once and for all, her satisfaction with being older and single.

Available on Amazon

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Interview & Feature with Author, Heather Thurmeier

Interview & Feature 

with Author, 

Heather Thurmeier

Biography

Heather Thurmeier, best-selling Amazon author, was born and raised in the Canadian prairies, but now she lives in New York with her own personal romance Hero (aka her husband) and their two little princesses. When she's not busy taking care of the kids or fur-kids, Heather's hard at work on her next romance novel. She loves to hear from readers. Heart, humor, and a happily ever after.

Where are you from?

I’m originally from the Canadian Prairies (Saskatchewan and Manitoba) but have lived in NY State for the last 15 years.

What inspired you to write your first book?

I’d wanted to write a book for about as long as I can remember, but never had an idea for one. Then one day, the idea for my book Falling for You came to me and I started playing around with the thought of maybe actually writing it! After thinking about it for a while, I decided it was time to try finally writing the book I’d always wanted to. So I did and I haven’t stopped since!

Do you write full-time or part-time? How do you balance your writing life with your family/work life?

I’m not sure what I would classify myself as. I don’t have another profession, so I guess writing is my full-time job, but I’m a mom and my family comes first so in that sense maybe I’m part-time. LOL. I tend to write only when my kids are at school, doing activities, or in bed. When they’re home, we’re busy doing homework and hanging out. I guess that’s how I balance it all—focus on kids when they’re home and focus on writing when they’re not. So far it seems to be working okay!

What book are you reading now?

Currently, I’m reading The Passage by Justin Cronin. It’s huge! I’m 350 pages in and it’s pretty awesome so far. It’s got this post-apocalypse vampire twist thing going on. It’s very unique, creative, and totally captivating.

Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

Andy Weir is a new author and definitely an interesting one! If you’re unfamiliar with him, maybe you’ve heard of book or movie The Martian. I listened to the book on audio, which was fantastic!!! Then saw the movie, opening weekend and loved it too. I can’t wait to see what he writes next! He better write something soon!

What are your current projects?

I’m currently working on the next book in my Falling Stars series. And I’m also plotting some new ideas for contemporary romances. 

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

I don’t think so. I’m really happy with how this one turned out!

Can you share a little of your current work with us?

The one I’m writing now isn’t ready for anyone else’s eyes yet, but I can give you a taste of my newest release—The Hometown Hoax!

Getting naked to swim was definitely her first mistake. Agreeing to sunbathe nude was absolutely her second. Somehow she feared that if she looked at him again, she’d be well on her way to making her third mistake of the day. And yet, she looked at him anyway.

How do you overcome writer’s block?

I force myself to keep writing even if I’m not feeling great about what I’m writing. I might only get 500 words that day, and they might be terrible, but they move the story forward and keep me going. Even if I know what I’m writing sucks, it’s better to keep going and get to the next scene because that one might be perfect. I can always go back and edit my writing later, but I have to get something on the page to begin with. A lot of times, the stuff I think sounds terrible while I’m writing it, actually turns out pretty decent!

What was the most fun part of writing your book?

I had the most fun writing the steamy scenes in The Hometown Hoax. They were each unique settings and the chemistry between Logan and Tessa was really exciting!

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

The hardest part of writing The Hometown Hoax was getting the story plotted just right before I started writing it. I had to really work to make sure their motivations and conflicts were clear before I got to work. Thankfully that hard work seems to have really paid off.

Do you have any advice for other writers?

My best advice is to keep writing, keep learning, and keep following your own path.

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

If you enjoy reading books that are lighthearted, humorous, romantic, and a little steamy, then I hope you’ll give my books a try. 

What do you think about e-publishing versus technical publishing?

I think there’s room in bookstores—both in your neighborhood and online—for all great books. There is no right or wrong way to publish anymore. As long as you write a good book and work hard to make it great, then there is a way for you to publish it and get it into the hands of your target readers.

Do you have an agent or publisher? How did you go about finding one?

I’m a “hybrid” author, which means I have an agent, a few publishers, and I also self-publish. The first step is to write a book you feel great about. Then you need to decide if it’s a book you want to self-publish or not. If yes, you need to get busy working on all the details it takes to put a book out for the world—hire and editor, cover artist, and formatter. You’ll also need to learn about the various online retail options and how to get your books uploaded. Generally, it isn’t that difficult. If you decide you want a publisher, some will let you submit even if you are un-agented, whereas others will require an agent. Be sure to research each publisher to find out their specifics on submissions and also to make sure they are a good fit for you and your work. If you decide you need an agent, then you need to research them as well! Take note of what genres they represent and what their guidelines are. Check out their reputation online and take everything you read into consideration while still making your own, educated decision. All of the information you need is available online once you start looking!

If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

I’d love to live somewhere with a great view. It could be lake or Oceanside, or in the mountains, or overlooking beautiful valleys. No matter where it is, I’d just love to have a gorgeous view to look at each day.

If you could have any super power, what would it be?

Oh, super powers… If I could pick anything (and I’m assuming I can make up new ones!) my power would be the ability to eat whatever I want and still be in top physical form (not that I currently am, lol!) and always be healthy. Diet of coffee and chocolate, here I come! Woo hoo!

The Hometown Hoax

Leaving was hard, but staying away might be impossible.

Tessa Cutter escaped her tiny hometown and chased her artistic dreams straight to Manhattan. Now she’s home for a camping trip with her family. To keep them off her back, she makes up the perfect pretend boyfriend—successful, important, and most of all, permanently located in New York.

Logan Ridley lost everything when his Manhattan-based personal training studio shut down. Luckily, a friend got him a position as a gym teacher in the small town of Cutter’s Creek. He’s heard a lot about the infamous Tessa, but she’s even better than he imagined. Except, she seems to hate everything about the small town he’s growing to love.

The chemistry sparking between them is impossible to ignore, but falling for Logan will trap Tessa in the small town she worked so hard to escape. If they have any hope of a future together, he’ll have to convince her that everything she wants has been in Cutter’s Creek all along...

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