Maria Savva's Blog - Posts Tagged "the-star-realm"
Introducing author Julie Elizabeth Powell, and international giveaway!
In the next few weeks I will be introducing you to some of my favourite writers, many of whom I met here on Goodreads.
My first guest is Julie Elizabeth Powell, author of Gone, Slings & Arrows, The Avalon Trilogy, Knowing Jack and A Murderer's Heart.
I first met Julie here on Goodreads a couple of years ago when we swapped books for review. I loved her book Gone and since then I have become a fan of her work. I’ve read all of her books and we have also become good friends, and I met her for the first time recently at her wedding reception.
As well as answering my questions, Julie has very generously offered to giveaway copies of Gone, Slings & Arrows, The Star Realm and Knowing Jack. For UK winners these will be print copies, pdf copies for international winners.
At the end of the interview, I'll let you know how you can enter!
Here are Julie’s replies to a few questions I asked her about her writing career and her books:
Is there a particular author or book that inspired you to start writing?
No. However, I’ve always loved to read and dabbled with words. But the ‘push’ to actually keep the words that flowed into a book came from what happened to my daughter, Samantha.
That was the basis and inspiration for your first novel, Gone. Please tell us a bit more about that.
I wrote Gone after what happened to my daughter, Samantha, in 1984, when her heart stopped and she died but was brought back to be left severely brain-damaged. A question kept nagging at me – Where had she gone? I mean, her body was lying here, true, but what had made her who she was had just vanished… her memories, her character… everything! On one of those many ‘not able to sleep’ nights, this idea came to me…she must be somewhere else, what if?…and Avalon* was born. I just had to write the story.
(*Avalon is the fantasy world featured in Gone)
At first, writing the book was about satisfying myself... helping me understand her tragic life – and mine. Then, as I continued to write, the world I’d created evolved and I thought this could really help others too. Though I don’t know how many other people that have suffered these exact circumstances, in my experience I don’t think there are /have been many cases like Samantha (brain okay, then wiped, to put it crudely) that lasted for so many years. I thought this book might be an answer that could satisfy a sorrowful heart. Whatever the circumstances, for those left behind, loss is loss… and love gets so tangled; this was one way of trying to sort things out. After Samantha died the second and final time, things didn’t improve for me much (you never get over it), but writing definitely helped… and it’s a tribute to her now. I also like to think that it could be true. Imagine that!
The book was inspired by Samantha. When you read the book, you’ll maybe understand the mixed feelings involved in a relationship like that – but there is no denying, she was my inspiration for this book.
Whenever I choose a book to read, I tend to go for those involved in fantasy, mystery, magic… that sort of thing. So, anyone of a like mind will immediately appreciate the setting etc. and I hope enjoy the story. However, I feel sure that even those who don’t necessarily select this type of genre would be helped or maybe given a lighter heart, if they read Gone, even if they’ve never suffered loss. I know that many will relate to the themes of love, loss, hope, fear, guilt and so on – especially those who have lost a child – and understand the bonds of love and all the strands that can become jumbled. They will gain more than they could guess… I’m sure of it.
I think Gone is different from other books because, yes it’s a fantasy, yes it’s about loss and grief… and finding a way through those things, but this story is about following an identity, which has been stripped from its owner. While a withering body lies waiting to die, its essence, its character, its memories are seen in another place, a mysterious land found by a mother (who thinks she’s crazy, of course who wouldn’t!) where she tries to come to terms with the tragic circumstances of her daughter’s situation. It’s not about Heaven, although some may have that opinion, it’s not about death even, as no one has actually died in the true sense, it’s about life and what makes us who we are and how the bonds of love can never be broken. It’s a battle against fear and guilt, sorrow and all the other emotions put upon us in the wake of loss. I’ve never heard of another story quite like this, not least due to the fact it was inspired by an exceptional truth. It shifts from supposed reality to other plains of existence, not least the added, and most surprising, adventure (which of course is a test) where the mother encounters a talking flower who has trouble remembering jokes, goblins and fairies… just to mention a few. But, more importantly it demonstrates the embodiment of fear, which is a huge hurdle for her to overcome – like for most of us, I would say. I also think that it’s funny as well as sad, enjoyable as well as emotive and will, I hope, help others as well as entertain. I don’t think it’s ever been done in this particular way before. Yes, there are stories about ‘after death’ and there’ve been dramas looking into the effects of such things as Alzheimer’s and cases where people have been brain-damaged in other ways… but nothing like this – the whole unique package.
When did you discover your love of writing?
Always loved it but writing Gone, and then being able to have it published, awakened a need, as if a dam had burst and all those submerged ideas swam to the surface and gulped greedily at the air.
Do you have any tips for someone who is considering self-publishing their own book?
Journey Into The Unknown… And Beyond
When I first found Lulu.com it felt like a million butterflies had materialised all at once and fluttered wildly inside me… and when I published, well… For years I’d tried to find someone, anyone… please, I’ll do your laundry forever if you do… to publish my stories but sadly, as the stack of rejections in that drawer will testify, nobody was interested. Why, I wondered? Not good enough? No! Too old? No? (Well, not for writing). Poor education? No! Not…? The list was endless, of course.
However, it seemed, the only thing ‘wrong’, was the fact that I wasn’t already famous! I hadn’t invented some world changing ‘must have’ (though Gone, my first fantasy novel, was inspired by a life-changing event and would definitely make others think differently); I hadn’t climbed Mount Everest (despite the fact that my second book, epic fantasy adventure, The Star Realm, felt like it); I hadn’t landed on the moon, starred in the latest blockbuster nor had I appeared on any reality show exposing bits best kept hidden (mind you, submitting my books for sale does feel like offering my heart on a plate and asking people to ‘dig in’).
So, where did that leave me? Vanity Press? Hmm, need money for that! Become newsworthy? I couldn’t hurt anyone or steal or run around naked, oh we won’t even go there… well, you understand? But I had talent – I knew it! Ah, you’ve guessed it…self-publishing! But I had no money!
The beauty of Lulu is that it’s free! You do the labour of course but then what would you expect? After that, all you have to do is buy your own work and promote it and…
So what does it take?
A story – that tale that’s rummaged around your head for years or just popped into it while you stood ironing or aligning the brakes on the Mustang…(beware stereotyping… though I didn’t say who was under the car).
You write it!
And write it again… and…! (Sometimes it’s best to put it away for at least a month then…)
You proofread it. WARNING: this is harder than writing the story or, I imagine, climbing Mount Everest, but maybe not as difficult as stripping off in front of an audience? Depends on your point of view. Imagination is the key word here.
Then you join Lulu.
Do you know that term mind boggler? Well, that’s what it’ll feel like at first… just take it one step at a time. Joining Lulu is easy (email and password) and free (beware repetition). Go through the video – more than once. It’ll probably be easier for those really, really good with computers but even then, you learn…okay, I’ve taken on a little more grey hair, I’ll admit!
Then you choose your layout – a layout that you set up in your computer programme (Word, maybe) for your story (the most popular size is 6 x 9 novel). (Tip: don’t put in page numbers until you’ve finished everything else or it can ‘mess things’…as the extra lines on my face will show). Lulu will take you through all the stages but it’s all your choice. It may be an idea to join Lulu first then see your layout /write your story in the correct format from the start – yes, I know, I learnt this after too with my first book. Then save to where you’ll remember, because you have to browse it to uploaded it (seems obvious but you’d be surprised!) Look, I’ve already given away too much stupidity!
Just follow on-screen instructions for conversion /cover upload (I chose a Lulu cover template for all of mine because I’m still learning that side of things) and for those that have an up-to-date modern computer it should be fairly quick, depending on the size of your book (mine’s not quite stone age… well it wouldn’t be, would it… but you know what I mean? Anyway, I’m saving for a new one…). Beware waffle.
Oooh, then Lulu tells you that you have successfully published!!! Blaze of glory…trumpets, garlands… tickertape… pats on the back… butterfly waltz… this is where we came in.
Back to Earth… then the real work starts… re-editing (I told you about proofreading, didn’t I?) And of course promoting… a whole other ball game…
Good writing and don’t stop dreaming – if you want to do it, you will.
You have written 6 books in many different genres, fantasy, murder-mystery, children’s books, and non-fiction. Is there one genre that you prefer more than the others? If so, why?
That’s easy – fantasy! I do like to try various genres but my favourite has to be fantasy because I can do anything in it. If there’s a problem with a character or place or plot then I can manipulate, make it up or just have some fun – fantasy allows that. Though I don’t mind if it’s for children (although that can be even more fun and making new characters in bizarre lands is fantastic) or adults – it certainly allowed me to deal with a difficult subject and perhaps come up with acceptable answers in Gone. Though even if it’s not fantasy, in my writing, the ‘real’ world (for the most part) has to be tempered with something extra, whether it is strange, mysterious, extraordinary, and magical or... well, you get the gist.
Summarise Gone, your first book in three or four sentences.
Gone is about finding answers, especially: ‘Where had my daughter gone?’ after she was severely brain damaged at the age of two, only to suffer agonies for a further seventeen years until her second death. It concerns the exploration of the human condition. It is about hope.
Who are your favourite authors and what is it about their writing you like?
Dean Koontz, Stephen King, JK Rowling, Shakespeare and Chaucer
Taking the last two first – I love the language and the way they understood the ways of being, how people thought and felt. I particularly liked Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing and King Lear and Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales – the Wife of Bath is fabulous... we could all learn good lessons from her!
Dean Koontz is my all time favourite, as he too understands people but his books always have that ‘extra’, that magical quality and a wonderful optimism. The dialogue between main characters is amazing and very funny. The Frankenstein and Christopher Snow series are my favourites so far though I really enjoyed them all. While Stephen King also gets to the nature of being, his works, for the most part, are far more negative and gruesome – though have some spectacular ideas. They may be more macabre but the best book of his, in my opinion, is Insomnia. Its plot enthralled me (I will not give away any spoilers) though I loved the Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile and The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon – three with a hopeful stance rather than the darker plots. I’ve enjoyed them all – too many to mention.
Is there a book you own that you’ve read more than once?
I freely admit that the Harry Potter series completes one of the best stories ever told. Brilliant – and yes, I’ve read them more than once.
If someone wanted to read your books, which would you recommend they read first, and why?
I can tell you that Gone will always be the most important book in my life but that’s not to say that every book I write doesn’t have my full attention and interest. Gone broke my heart and in a way mended it, and I love to think of Avalon being there ready and waiting for when my time comes, and welcome the idea that Samantha and I will one day be together.
What is the target age group for your children’s trilogy – The Avalon Trilogy? And Knowing Jack, your other children’s book?
Without generalising, I would say about 12. It would depend on the individual and of course I think that adults would enjoy them too. Here speaks a Harry Potter fan.
Which one of your books was the hardest to write and why?
There are two: Gone and Slings & Arrows. The first because of the truth behind why I was writing it, and the second because it was the harrowing truth. And strangely, I wrote Gone first. It took 24 years before I could write Slings & Arrows.
What was the last book you read?
Dean Koontz: Your Heart Belongs To Me
Wish I had more time to read.
Are you reading a book at the moment?
Dean Koontz: The Voice Of The Night
What do you think of ebooks?
Great idea and they can work out cheaper, though I have to say I love the feel of a book and being about to sit comfortably and let my imagination relish.
How important are reviews for you as a writer?
Vital, I would say, especially as a self-published author. Spreading the word is the only possible way of letting others know about your work. It also gives much needed feedback – even if negative (sigh). I’m always willing to learn. I’m extremely grateful to anyone that takes the time to read and review my books. It can help the ego too!
How do you go about choosing a cover for your books?
If I had the money, I would have my ideas professionally uploaded. Or, if I could understand how to do it, I would upload my own designs (even Photoshop for Dummies hasn’t helped). However, as I don’t /can’t, I search through the Lulu library and try to find the most appropriate. I’ve been lucky so far.
What are you working on now?
I have the last of the Avalon Trilogy waiting patiently for my head to ‘get on with it’, in addition to a short story & book where I hope to include short stories (obviously), poetry and pieces inspired by other books – amongst other stuff. It’s proving a good test of my abilities and it’s good to play around with other genres. It’s called Figments and I hope to finish soon enough so to help those poor children out of the predicament within which they’ve been left so that Secrets Of The Ice can at last be published. There are a few others things too, so I’m busy to say the least.
Where can people buy your books?
Julie's Lulu Storefront
You’ll find Gone on Amazon
Gone
Quite few sites carry it, however.
Do you have your own website or blog where people can read more about your work?
I had a website until recently but unfortunately the company (and my site) vanished. However, I have been putting together a new one:
Julie's website
It's a work in progress, but there is info about me, my books and maybe some tips that some may find useful. I will add more as time allows.
Do you have anything you’d like to say to your readers?
Wow… thank you so much for buying my book… I really hope you enjoyed it… and that it made you think differently about things. I hope it helped too, if you needed it. Sorry if there are any mistakes but I’m editor, publisher, designer and writer so I might have missed something. And you never know, earlier prints with errors might be worth a packet one day! If anyone wants to talk to me about any of the issues email me at julizpow (at) yahoo (dot) co (dot) uk
Oh, and… please be kind!!! Thanks.
To enter to win copies of Gone, Slings & Arrows, The Star Realm and Knowing Jack (print copies for UK winners and pdf copies for international), all you have to do is leave a comment here. I will pick 4 winners randomly on 28th February 2011. Good luck!
My first guest is Julie Elizabeth Powell, author of Gone, Slings & Arrows, The Avalon Trilogy, Knowing Jack and A Murderer's Heart.
I first met Julie here on Goodreads a couple of years ago when we swapped books for review. I loved her book Gone and since then I have become a fan of her work. I’ve read all of her books and we have also become good friends, and I met her for the first time recently at her wedding reception.
As well as answering my questions, Julie has very generously offered to giveaway copies of Gone, Slings & Arrows, The Star Realm and Knowing Jack. For UK winners these will be print copies, pdf copies for international winners.
At the end of the interview, I'll let you know how you can enter!
Here are Julie’s replies to a few questions I asked her about her writing career and her books:
Is there a particular author or book that inspired you to start writing?
No. However, I’ve always loved to read and dabbled with words. But the ‘push’ to actually keep the words that flowed into a book came from what happened to my daughter, Samantha.
That was the basis and inspiration for your first novel, Gone. Please tell us a bit more about that.
I wrote Gone after what happened to my daughter, Samantha, in 1984, when her heart stopped and she died but was brought back to be left severely brain-damaged. A question kept nagging at me – Where had she gone? I mean, her body was lying here, true, but what had made her who she was had just vanished… her memories, her character… everything! On one of those many ‘not able to sleep’ nights, this idea came to me…she must be somewhere else, what if?…and Avalon* was born. I just had to write the story.
(*Avalon is the fantasy world featured in Gone)
At first, writing the book was about satisfying myself... helping me understand her tragic life – and mine. Then, as I continued to write, the world I’d created evolved and I thought this could really help others too. Though I don’t know how many other people that have suffered these exact circumstances, in my experience I don’t think there are /have been many cases like Samantha (brain okay, then wiped, to put it crudely) that lasted for so many years. I thought this book might be an answer that could satisfy a sorrowful heart. Whatever the circumstances, for those left behind, loss is loss… and love gets so tangled; this was one way of trying to sort things out. After Samantha died the second and final time, things didn’t improve for me much (you never get over it), but writing definitely helped… and it’s a tribute to her now. I also like to think that it could be true. Imagine that!
The book was inspired by Samantha. When you read the book, you’ll maybe understand the mixed feelings involved in a relationship like that – but there is no denying, she was my inspiration for this book.
Whenever I choose a book to read, I tend to go for those involved in fantasy, mystery, magic… that sort of thing. So, anyone of a like mind will immediately appreciate the setting etc. and I hope enjoy the story. However, I feel sure that even those who don’t necessarily select this type of genre would be helped or maybe given a lighter heart, if they read Gone, even if they’ve never suffered loss. I know that many will relate to the themes of love, loss, hope, fear, guilt and so on – especially those who have lost a child – and understand the bonds of love and all the strands that can become jumbled. They will gain more than they could guess… I’m sure of it.
I think Gone is different from other books because, yes it’s a fantasy, yes it’s about loss and grief… and finding a way through those things, but this story is about following an identity, which has been stripped from its owner. While a withering body lies waiting to die, its essence, its character, its memories are seen in another place, a mysterious land found by a mother (who thinks she’s crazy, of course who wouldn’t!) where she tries to come to terms with the tragic circumstances of her daughter’s situation. It’s not about Heaven, although some may have that opinion, it’s not about death even, as no one has actually died in the true sense, it’s about life and what makes us who we are and how the bonds of love can never be broken. It’s a battle against fear and guilt, sorrow and all the other emotions put upon us in the wake of loss. I’ve never heard of another story quite like this, not least due to the fact it was inspired by an exceptional truth. It shifts from supposed reality to other plains of existence, not least the added, and most surprising, adventure (which of course is a test) where the mother encounters a talking flower who has trouble remembering jokes, goblins and fairies… just to mention a few. But, more importantly it demonstrates the embodiment of fear, which is a huge hurdle for her to overcome – like for most of us, I would say. I also think that it’s funny as well as sad, enjoyable as well as emotive and will, I hope, help others as well as entertain. I don’t think it’s ever been done in this particular way before. Yes, there are stories about ‘after death’ and there’ve been dramas looking into the effects of such things as Alzheimer’s and cases where people have been brain-damaged in other ways… but nothing like this – the whole unique package.
When did you discover your love of writing?
Always loved it but writing Gone, and then being able to have it published, awakened a need, as if a dam had burst and all those submerged ideas swam to the surface and gulped greedily at the air.
Do you have any tips for someone who is considering self-publishing their own book?
Journey Into The Unknown… And Beyond
When I first found Lulu.com it felt like a million butterflies had materialised all at once and fluttered wildly inside me… and when I published, well… For years I’d tried to find someone, anyone… please, I’ll do your laundry forever if you do… to publish my stories but sadly, as the stack of rejections in that drawer will testify, nobody was interested. Why, I wondered? Not good enough? No! Too old? No? (Well, not for writing). Poor education? No! Not…? The list was endless, of course.
However, it seemed, the only thing ‘wrong’, was the fact that I wasn’t already famous! I hadn’t invented some world changing ‘must have’ (though Gone, my first fantasy novel, was inspired by a life-changing event and would definitely make others think differently); I hadn’t climbed Mount Everest (despite the fact that my second book, epic fantasy adventure, The Star Realm, felt like it); I hadn’t landed on the moon, starred in the latest blockbuster nor had I appeared on any reality show exposing bits best kept hidden (mind you, submitting my books for sale does feel like offering my heart on a plate and asking people to ‘dig in’).
So, where did that leave me? Vanity Press? Hmm, need money for that! Become newsworthy? I couldn’t hurt anyone or steal or run around naked, oh we won’t even go there… well, you understand? But I had talent – I knew it! Ah, you’ve guessed it…self-publishing! But I had no money!
The beauty of Lulu is that it’s free! You do the labour of course but then what would you expect? After that, all you have to do is buy your own work and promote it and…
So what does it take?
A story – that tale that’s rummaged around your head for years or just popped into it while you stood ironing or aligning the brakes on the Mustang…(beware stereotyping… though I didn’t say who was under the car).
You write it!
And write it again… and…! (Sometimes it’s best to put it away for at least a month then…)
You proofread it. WARNING: this is harder than writing the story or, I imagine, climbing Mount Everest, but maybe not as difficult as stripping off in front of an audience? Depends on your point of view. Imagination is the key word here.
Then you join Lulu.
Do you know that term mind boggler? Well, that’s what it’ll feel like at first… just take it one step at a time. Joining Lulu is easy (email and password) and free (beware repetition). Go through the video – more than once. It’ll probably be easier for those really, really good with computers but even then, you learn…okay, I’ve taken on a little more grey hair, I’ll admit!
Then you choose your layout – a layout that you set up in your computer programme (Word, maybe) for your story (the most popular size is 6 x 9 novel). (Tip: don’t put in page numbers until you’ve finished everything else or it can ‘mess things’…as the extra lines on my face will show). Lulu will take you through all the stages but it’s all your choice. It may be an idea to join Lulu first then see your layout /write your story in the correct format from the start – yes, I know, I learnt this after too with my first book. Then save to where you’ll remember, because you have to browse it to uploaded it (seems obvious but you’d be surprised!) Look, I’ve already given away too much stupidity!
Just follow on-screen instructions for conversion /cover upload (I chose a Lulu cover template for all of mine because I’m still learning that side of things) and for those that have an up-to-date modern computer it should be fairly quick, depending on the size of your book (mine’s not quite stone age… well it wouldn’t be, would it… but you know what I mean? Anyway, I’m saving for a new one…). Beware waffle.
Oooh, then Lulu tells you that you have successfully published!!! Blaze of glory…trumpets, garlands… tickertape… pats on the back… butterfly waltz… this is where we came in.
Back to Earth… then the real work starts… re-editing (I told you about proofreading, didn’t I?) And of course promoting… a whole other ball game…
Good writing and don’t stop dreaming – if you want to do it, you will.
You have written 6 books in many different genres, fantasy, murder-mystery, children’s books, and non-fiction. Is there one genre that you prefer more than the others? If so, why?
That’s easy – fantasy! I do like to try various genres but my favourite has to be fantasy because I can do anything in it. If there’s a problem with a character or place or plot then I can manipulate, make it up or just have some fun – fantasy allows that. Though I don’t mind if it’s for children (although that can be even more fun and making new characters in bizarre lands is fantastic) or adults – it certainly allowed me to deal with a difficult subject and perhaps come up with acceptable answers in Gone. Though even if it’s not fantasy, in my writing, the ‘real’ world (for the most part) has to be tempered with something extra, whether it is strange, mysterious, extraordinary, and magical or... well, you get the gist.
Summarise Gone, your first book in three or four sentences.
Gone is about finding answers, especially: ‘Where had my daughter gone?’ after she was severely brain damaged at the age of two, only to suffer agonies for a further seventeen years until her second death. It concerns the exploration of the human condition. It is about hope.
Who are your favourite authors and what is it about their writing you like?
Dean Koontz, Stephen King, JK Rowling, Shakespeare and Chaucer
Taking the last two first – I love the language and the way they understood the ways of being, how people thought and felt. I particularly liked Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing and King Lear and Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales – the Wife of Bath is fabulous... we could all learn good lessons from her!
Dean Koontz is my all time favourite, as he too understands people but his books always have that ‘extra’, that magical quality and a wonderful optimism. The dialogue between main characters is amazing and very funny. The Frankenstein and Christopher Snow series are my favourites so far though I really enjoyed them all. While Stephen King also gets to the nature of being, his works, for the most part, are far more negative and gruesome – though have some spectacular ideas. They may be more macabre but the best book of his, in my opinion, is Insomnia. Its plot enthralled me (I will not give away any spoilers) though I loved the Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile and The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon – three with a hopeful stance rather than the darker plots. I’ve enjoyed them all – too many to mention.
Is there a book you own that you’ve read more than once?
I freely admit that the Harry Potter series completes one of the best stories ever told. Brilliant – and yes, I’ve read them more than once.
If someone wanted to read your books, which would you recommend they read first, and why?
I can tell you that Gone will always be the most important book in my life but that’s not to say that every book I write doesn’t have my full attention and interest. Gone broke my heart and in a way mended it, and I love to think of Avalon being there ready and waiting for when my time comes, and welcome the idea that Samantha and I will one day be together.
What is the target age group for your children’s trilogy – The Avalon Trilogy? And Knowing Jack, your other children’s book?
Without generalising, I would say about 12. It would depend on the individual and of course I think that adults would enjoy them too. Here speaks a Harry Potter fan.
Which one of your books was the hardest to write and why?
There are two: Gone and Slings & Arrows. The first because of the truth behind why I was writing it, and the second because it was the harrowing truth. And strangely, I wrote Gone first. It took 24 years before I could write Slings & Arrows.
What was the last book you read?
Dean Koontz: Your Heart Belongs To Me
Wish I had more time to read.
Are you reading a book at the moment?
Dean Koontz: The Voice Of The Night
What do you think of ebooks?
Great idea and they can work out cheaper, though I have to say I love the feel of a book and being about to sit comfortably and let my imagination relish.
How important are reviews for you as a writer?
Vital, I would say, especially as a self-published author. Spreading the word is the only possible way of letting others know about your work. It also gives much needed feedback – even if negative (sigh). I’m always willing to learn. I’m extremely grateful to anyone that takes the time to read and review my books. It can help the ego too!
How do you go about choosing a cover for your books?
If I had the money, I would have my ideas professionally uploaded. Or, if I could understand how to do it, I would upload my own designs (even Photoshop for Dummies hasn’t helped). However, as I don’t /can’t, I search through the Lulu library and try to find the most appropriate. I’ve been lucky so far.
What are you working on now?
I have the last of the Avalon Trilogy waiting patiently for my head to ‘get on with it’, in addition to a short story & book where I hope to include short stories (obviously), poetry and pieces inspired by other books – amongst other stuff. It’s proving a good test of my abilities and it’s good to play around with other genres. It’s called Figments and I hope to finish soon enough so to help those poor children out of the predicament within which they’ve been left so that Secrets Of The Ice can at last be published. There are a few others things too, so I’m busy to say the least.
Where can people buy your books?
Julie's Lulu Storefront
You’ll find Gone on Amazon
Gone
Quite few sites carry it, however.
Do you have your own website or blog where people can read more about your work?
I had a website until recently but unfortunately the company (and my site) vanished. However, I have been putting together a new one:
Julie's website
It's a work in progress, but there is info about me, my books and maybe some tips that some may find useful. I will add more as time allows.
Do you have anything you’d like to say to your readers?
Wow… thank you so much for buying my book… I really hope you enjoyed it… and that it made you think differently about things. I hope it helped too, if you needed it. Sorry if there are any mistakes but I’m editor, publisher, designer and writer so I might have missed something. And you never know, earlier prints with errors might be worth a packet one day! If anyone wants to talk to me about any of the issues email me at julizpow (at) yahoo (dot) co (dot) uk
Oh, and… please be kind!!! Thanks.
To enter to win copies of Gone, Slings & Arrows, The Star Realm and Knowing Jack (print copies for UK winners and pdf copies for international), all you have to do is leave a comment here. I will pick 4 winners randomly on 28th February 2011. Good luck!
A chat with author Julie Elizabeth Powell
Back when I started interviewing authors on my blog, I think Julie Elizabeth Powell was one of the first, if not the first author I introduced you to.
Since my last interview with Julie, she has written 3 more books, so I thought it would be a good time to catch up with her and see what's new.
Julie is also giving away a few ebook copies of her books to lucky readers of my blog who leave a comment or 'like' the blog post. So, leave a comment or 'like' the post and you never know, you could be a winner! The prize will be an ebook copy of your choice from Julie's 9 books.
Here's the interview:
When I met you on Goodreads in 2008, you had only one book, I think, Gone. In less that 3 years, you’ve published another 8 books. That is a wonderful achievement. I have read all the books, and enjoyed them. Are you just a very fast writer or were some of the books written years ago and only recently published?
Thank you for saying you enjoyed my books. So to answer your question, sometimes I write fast, so fast that I can’t keep up with all the words flowing from my brain. Other times, however, the thinking stage takes far longer than I’d wish. Gone was my first book and, yes, I would say I wrote it quickly but rewrote it more than once, although the first chapter I rewrote many, many times until I was satisfied. Gone was the first piece of writing that I thought worthy of keeping...and I’d found Lulu in 2007 – Fate maybe?
All my novels came into being after 2000, when the idea came from the question: ‘Where had my daughter gone?’ during those waiting years. One night I thought, ‘she must be somewhere’, and so Gone was pulled from my imagination. The Star Realm developed from the world I’d created in Gone – Avalon was just too good to waste – and I thoroughly enjoyed the fun of it...and so on. Sometimes I’d get another idea and I knew I had to get it down before it was lost. Some were half written with notes, and I switched from one to the other when my imagination just wouldn’t let me stop. I couldn’t write Slings & Arrows until Samantha died for the second and final time, well after I’d written Gone. Slings & Arrows was the most difficult to write, yet I’m glad it’s done...it just may help others too.
So I would say that on the whole I’m quite fast, especially when an idea takes root. Rewriting is essential, as I’ve learned so much since rewriting, finishing and finally publishing Gone in 2007.
Since I last interviewed you, you’ve taken the plunge into e-publishing and your 9 books are all available on Kindle at Amazon. Have you considered investing in an e-reader yet, or are you still a traditional paperback/hardback reader?
I do prefer a ‘real’ book in my hand, the feel, smell etc. but yes, I’d like a Kindle mainly so that I can buy more books because the prices are so reasonable and I wouldn’t have the problem of where to store them (time to read them would be great). I hate getting rid of books but sometimes... With a Kindle, for example, I would be able to sit in comfort too, rather than in front of the computer – still a screen, yes, but a compromise.
Your three latest books are again different to your other books. You’ve dived into short story writing with Figments and a humourous almost chick-lit book with Misadventures Of Fatwoman andOf Sound Mindis a psychological/fantasy tale. How important do you think it is for a writer to experiment with different forms of writing?
I love to experiment with various genres. It’s challenging and great to see ‘if I can do it’, yet I don’t think my writing style changes, and of course I have to research. Fantasy will always be my favourite (I can cheat /get away with so much /have great fun). I’d like to mix up genres too and just see where it leads but for now I must be good and finish my current work. Though I have something else that is half-written with notes so I might go with that next, unless my writing fairy visits in the night? Yes, I think it’s important for writers to try all aspects of writing – it’ll not only exercise the brain but it also might bring surprises.
Were the short stories and poems in Figments written as a collection, or did you put the book together by publishing stories and poems that you have written over the years?
Some of Figments did come from sketches of things I’d written and shelved when I’d decided to ‘go back to school’ fifteen years ago, where I had to complete GCSE English, Maths then do A levels, then of course University. However, most I had to rewrite, and many I steered into a whole other direction, just picked up the spark and ran with it. Some stories I’d just thought of there and then while I was putting together the collection. Dark Corners and The Pandora Dress were completely new. Santicore Ockle too was new, as the name just popped into my head and I thought, ‘what a terrible, yet interesting name, what would someone do if they had it?’ The Box That Jane Built was partly written a couple of years ago because of something Stephen King said but I can’t even remember what that was now, so I was able to finish it the way I thought best. I did wonder if it could become a novel but it stopped where it did and I can’t force these things. Heartsongs I wrote after they came to me in a dream about five years ago. I’m no poet but felt they needed to be included in the collection. Chocolate Cake, however, was new and the quickest and most fun to write.
One of the short stories from your collection, Figments, has been included in the BestsellerBound Short Story Anthology Volume 3. As you know, we produce these free anthologies on BestsellerBound to help promote independent writers. Have you come across any good promotional tips for self-published authors that you can share with us?
Self-publishing gives writers total control, I like that, yet I think it has to be as professional as possible. Editing is imperative but I find I can only do my best and hope that people will forgive typos – and even books from publishing houses have mistakes. I would say that spelling and grammar are more important and don’t forget an easy layout. Honing writing style is always worth the effort. I like Lulu as it’s easy, free and I can re-launch any time I wish. It’s also easy to upload your own cover now. You must love writing and not expect fame or riches – of course we all want our work to be recognised but that’s not what it’s about. However, don’t give up.
One of my favourite short story writers, James Everington included a short piece at the end of his short story collection The Other Room describing the inspiration behind some of the stories in his collection. Could you pick two of your favourite short stories (or poems) from Figments and tell us the story behind the story/poem?
The Old Bookshop is one of my favourites from Figments because it started off as an exercise in ‘how to use the senses’ in writing and ended up with a far deeper meaning. Escaping, new beginnings, not being afraid of change and self-worth, are only a few of the themes – I also couldn’t resist including a pinch of magic. I do love bookshops and wish that the old kind could come back into fashion. The Box That Jane Built was only to see what I could do without thinking...just letting the story lead me, and I think it worked. It’s dark and its subtext sinks to many levels yet the face of it is all that is needed to bring tingles to the spine – that’s only my opinion.
Short stories often get bad press, and are often ignored in favour of novels, with common complaints being that there is not enough time for character development, not enough time for a full story to be told in a short story. I completely disagree and would argue that some of the best literature I’ve ever read has been in the short story form. What would you say to encourage more people to read short stories?
Yes, some short stories are sadly missed because of bad press. However, I would say that a character can be ‘built’ with only one line, sometimes even a word. And a story is a story whatever its length and the enjoyment is in the reading. Sometimes, yes, I am disappointed that a story is so good I don’t want it to end, but then I feel that with many novels – it’s not its length but its potency that matters. Short stories can also give readers a ‘feel’ for a writer, so they can find out their versatility and reach into their imagination.
As well as short stories, your collection, Figments, also includes poetry. One of my favourites is Chocolate Cake. What do you think is the secret of a good poem?
I'm glad you enjoyed Chocolate Cake, it was fun, and to tell you the truth I wrote it in a matter of minutes, almost as if it had been waiting for just that moment! Secret of a good poem? How it makes you feel is the simple answer, I think, and don’t worry about rhyming or framing...a poem can be anything you like as long as the feeling is understood.
I read somewhere recently that you design all your own book covers. I saw that you re-designed some of the older ones, and I must say I’m very impressed by the designs. Why did you decide to change some of the covers and can you give any tips to other self-published authors as to how you go about designing the covers?
Thank you for the complements on my cover designs. With Gone, I went with what Lulu offered at the time – their templates /photos, and was quite happy to have found a reasonable front for my story. However, by the time I’d written the others, Lulu had changed and allowed a more sophisticated wizard – and I have a great design programme so that I can upload easily. So, I look to the Internet for photos – morguefile, for example, has a wealth of pictures for use (and I cite them of course...they say it’s no problem to do this), then use my programme (Craft Artist professional from Serif) for backgrounds, colour, text, etc. then save it to import. Uploading to lulu is easy where I use the wizard to finish. I love doing it and would encourage others – it gives even more control over your work.
I re-designed my older covers because I could and it was fun to do so and I’m far more pleased with them because they’re mine. The new covers can be found on my USA account (the one I use to post USA reviews) www.lulu.com/spotlight/JEP while some of the older ones are on www.lulu.com/julizpow my UK account.
Of Sound Mind is an interesting book about mental illness and the blur between reality and fantasy. In this book we are taken to the land of Mageia, a fantasy world with strange characters as its inhabitants. I was amazed by your imagination in creating the world of Avalon for your children's book trilogy, and similarly amazed at the characters you created in Mageia. I know you once said that Avalon really exists and so do the characters, would you say the same about Mageia?
All my characters and places are real to me. I see them as clearly as anywhere in our supposed reality. I’ve often wondered if anything is real and if so, why? Why shouldn’t the worlds created from our minds be as authentic as what we presume surround us every day? Oh my, that makes me sound a touch crazy...or just touched! I’ve no idea what other writers think or feel but for me the worlds I create exist. Think of it this way, when you read a story, how real is the place? Can you see it? Do you feel it? Does your mind see you there? How true does it seem to you? And the characters – do you feel their pain, their laughter, their madness? Now then, does that make it all existent? It does for me.
The character Jorga in Of Sound Mind has telekinetic ability. Have you ever known anyone with such ability?
I’ve never known anyone with telekinetic ability but like inKnowing Jack, I’m sure the brain is capable of much more than we understand. Jorja is still untapped and I hope to write a sequel, therefore bringing Mageia and her powers to life in even more detail. Jack, by the way, was kindled from how my son has such amazing intuition. I will never underestimate the power of the brain.
Of Sound Mind touches on the subject of treatments for mental illness. How did you go about researching the topic?
As I’ve said, the brain is an incredible entity, there is so much we don’t know or understand. I have suffered from depression for many years and am terrified it will get the better of me one day so much so that on the face of it nobody would know. The thought of being ‘put away’ is terrifying and my imagination can easily see the horrors. With those feelings in mind, I’ve read many accounts and researched on-line how the brain might see things and why it acts the way it does. My worry is not so much the ‘illness’ as the people who may be in charge of it. But Jorja isn’t crazy, is she?
In Misadventures of Fatwoman you bring us a totally believable character, Andie, who is obsessed with her weight. I found that the book touched upon many of the insecurities women feel these days with the pressure to look perfect. It’s also a very funny book. What was the inspiration behind the book and how long did it take to write?
The inspiration behind Misadventures Of Fatwoman – me of course! Food and me have a love /hate relationship and ever since I can remember I’ve always hated the way I look. This leads to lack of confidence and feeling undervalued, and I believe many, many women feel this way. Yes, there are media pressures and all women are targeted to be ‘perfect’. My way of dealing with some of it is to laugh and through Andi, I hope to make others aware that they can be cruel and that nobody is perfect and can never be (and what is perfect anyway? It’s like normal – what’s that?) Making it a comedy is vital because laughter can only forbid the demons entry.
It didn’t take long to write once I’d focussed upon finishing it.
Do you write every day?
I try to write every day, however, life distracts me...once I’m at the keyboard though, my brain is overwhelmed with words and I can’t write fast enough. It’s great to be ‘in the zone’ and even if I’ve been away from the computer for a while, my brain is still working on stories.
In your opinion is there such a thing as writer’s block (personally, I don’t believe in it)?
I don’t think there’s an actual block to writing, only a bit of a halt to an idea or scene. I think that’s why I often write more than one story at once so that I’m never stuck.
Other than writing, I know you like to make things, jewellery, homemade cards etc. Is that just for fun, or do you think that will turn into a business idea?
Yes, cards, scrapbooking, jewellery making – see, distractions? I love being creative and I like to see the pleasure when I give family and friends whatever it is. Encaustic Art is one of my favourites, as it’s perfect for fantasy work and there are no two pictures alike. It’s all just for fun, although I did put on a show once for handcrafted cards for orders (I only make one-offs /personal to...) but it didn’t work out. I can only think that people can’t afford quality and would prefer to buy 10 for a £1 at the discount store. I can’t blame them, money is too hard to find.
You’re currently working on book three in your Avalon trilogy. Do you have an estimated date when that will be released?
Oh dear, the last in the trilogy...I’m about halfway through, however, despite the distractions I keep...or rather the characters lead me down extra paths – it’s fun but taking an age. I also have to keep in mind all the threads from book one and two and of course stay on track for the (I hope) surprising end. Maybe early next year it’ll be done – don’t forget all that editing I’ll have to do and the cover and I’d like to include some drawings for the interior...I’m trying to finish, honest I am!
You’ve recently joined Twitter. What do you think of it?
Twitter is weird! It’s probably me not having time to understand its mechanisms, however, I am grateful to anyone who mentions me and apologise for not ‘whatever it is I’m suppose to do’.
In one paragraph, explain to people why they should read independent books.
You should read my books because: (feels like a competition question) they’re good. How lame is that? Gone is a unique fantasy and it’ll make you think differently – Slings & Arrows is important too, as it’s the true account of what happened to my daughter and the spark for Gone. All my fictional books will entertain and grip you in ways you’ll enjoy – what else can I say except I hope you do read them, they’ll carve new pathways into those ever-thirsty brains.
Thank you, Julie!!
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Remember to leave a comment or 'like' this blog post to be in with a chance to win an ebook copy of your choice of Julie's books. Winners will be picked on 15th December 2011. Good luck!
