TopShelf - February 2021

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INTERVIEWS NATASHA DEEN Page 6 CHRIS HUMPHREYS Page 10 DR. LEW BAYER Page 14 SUZI VADORI Page 16 READ GRADY HARPS REVIEW OF IN THE KEY OF NIRA GHANI ON PAGE 22

February 2021

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interviews

CEO

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Keith A. Katsikas Jr.

Natasha Deen Chris Humphreys Dr. Lew Bayer Suzy Vadori

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President & Publisher Rebecca Katsikas

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Lead Editor Kyle Magnus

In the Key of Nira Ghani Manufacturing Civility The Hunt of the Unicorn Maria and the Plague

ISBN: 978-0999066546 ISBN: 978-0999066546

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Assistant Editor Sharon Isbell

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Social Media Specialist Stephan Katsikas

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Contributors & Reviewers

Mickey Mikkelson, Creative Edge Media Grady Harp Serena Soape Jenn Taylor Phyllis Pisanellie Linda Keenan Michael Rowland Bobby jo Calder Kris Miller Kyle Magnus Kathrin Hutson Miranda Oh Jenna Greene

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Twenty-one years after eeing Earth due to a genetic plague that decimated the population, the Galileo Colony Ship Kutanga arrives at Gaia, an Earth-like world in the Alpha Centauri system. The ship carries the memories and DNA of 4,492 human survivors and Aneni, the ship’s AI commander, is on a mission to save them. But she has a problem—instead of finding an uninhabited world, devoid of intelligent life and ready to receive her precious cargo, she finds a planet populated by ten’s of millions of people…

This crime/mystery from award winning author Peter S. Rush is the riveting story of Tommy Logan, a small time pot dealer, who is swept into the international smuggling scene by the cunning con man Harry Burr. Trying to extricate himself and his girl friend Sandy, he nds himself confronted by the dilemma of saving Sandy or himself.

Genre: Science Fiction Price: $15.99

Genre: Crime Thriller Price: $15.96

Th e H u z i e n E m p i r e h a s existed for 80 millennia and a powerful invisible force known as the enesmic permeates every aspect of the Twin Galaxy.

Neven is an engineer working for the pinnacle of scientific achievement known as the MinSci on the Huzien homeworld of Thae. His genius draws the attention of one of the immortal Founders and he finds himself drafted into the military as part of an elite group of special forces known as the Founder’s Elites…

Gavin Gregory often stares into the abyss--that's his job. An elite pro ler at the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit, he hunts serial killers for a living. He knows how they behave, how they think, what motivates them.

Considered the best at what he does, Gavin goes to investigate when it appears a dormant psychopath has reactivated. The case takes a bizarre turn when psychiatrist, Debra Esteves, contacts him and says she knows who the enigmatic killer is…

Genre: Science Fiction Price: $19.99

Genre: Thriller Price: $20.99

While Forrest goes to college, quick witted Annet works at the Keizer Manor, the museum where the oils from 19th century master painter Alexander Keizer are exhibited.After a fight, the couple strolls through the dunes to make up. When dark clouds roll in, the beautiful sunny weather turns into a thunderstorm so violent that they get separated. The next morning, Forrest finds himself alone. So does Annet.Regaining consciousness in a monastery, Annet is convinced the nuns are playing a prank on her. It can't be the 1800’s!

Somebody has to do something.

For Victor Sykes, business is good. His illegal diamond importing business is thriving, and circumstances require that he bring more people to his team. His niece and nephew, Rubi Lee and Zeke, are as dangerous as they are desperate, and they follow orders to make sure everything goes right. But when the shipment of diamonds-sewn into the inner lining of a sweatshirt-is mistakenly con scated, the entire operation is put at risk…

Genre: Time Travel Romance Price: $14.99

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Award Winning Historical TimeTravel Romance "...engaging novel, Storm at Keizer Manor will sweep you up in the storm of Annet's and Forrest's lives and command your emotions. It's a jewel for romantics to treasure. Like a fabulous meal lingers on your tongue, this story remains with you to mull over and savor in quiet moments." ~ Fiction Ebook Review

 

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How and when did you decide to become a writer?

When I was a kid, I read This Can’t be Happening at MacDonald Hall and found out Gordon Korman had written the book when he was thirteen. Excited that kids could be writers, I wondered what the steps were to do this phenomenal thing. I asked it of my teachers, school librarians, public librarians, parents, but no one had an answer.

I came to the conclusion that being an author was a bit like winning the lottery, a happy occurrence of chance and luck. I stopped dreaming of being a writer. Fast forward to finishing university, reading a horrible book, and having the question resurface, “What does it take to be a professional writer?”

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH BESTSELLING YOUNG ADULT AUTHOR, NATASHA DEEN

This time, I was lucky. I had the internet, a better idea of how to search among the stacks of the library shelves, and a focused set of questions about reference and professional development books to bring to the librarians.

So, a lot of research (and deleted pages!) later, I had a manuscript, that’s how it all began.

Did you always want to write for kids/ teens?

I like writing for all audiences, and I count myself lucky that I have books for kids, teens, and adults, as well as the chance to have written for magazines and the stage.

How can writing “change the world”?

Years ago, I read an article discussing how people reading a fashion magazine for as little as two minutes could trigger depressive symptoms. There was also another article on the link between having people write about their best or worst memory, and their resulting decisions when given the choice between junk food and a healthy snack (people who wrote about a happier moment were more likely to choose carrot sticks over cookies, while those who wrote about their worst memory were more likely to choose the cookie). It seems, then, that if the old adage is true and we are what we eat, then we are also what we read and write.

There are loads of articles and research on how stories teach empathy and understanding, foster appreciation for different cultures and communities, and the psychological and physiological benefits to reading (reduced stress levels, boosted immune systems, better sleep habits).

Writing changes the world because it not only changes us on an individual level, it allows for us to look higher and farther, to see the connections, responsibilities, and interdependence we have with each other.

How much of your life/ personality is in your writing?

One of the reasons I think writing is so difficult is that no matter how hard authors try to stay out of their pages, somehow we end up in them. I’m not talking about Author Intrusion, when the writer uses the book to lecture or sermonize, I’m talking about the little bits and pieces of ourselves that we leave on the page.

Years ago, I started reading a book and had to put it down. In real life, the author had just lost their dog to cancer, and the book

included a dog character, but I could feel the author’s love and loss in the pages. It was so intimate and raw, I felt I was invading their personal space by reading the story.

In my case, my books always have some kind of positive resolution. My family history includes slavery, poverty, indentured servitude. In watching my elders work and fight to overcome the obstacles before them, I find I’m most excited when I’m writing resourceful characters who fight, not just to survive, but to thrive, as well.

What should non-writers know about writing? What should new writers know about writing?

For nonwriters and writers alike, it’s the saying, “hard writing makes easy reading.”

Great writers make their books look effortless and easy, but there is no “easy” in what they’ve done. They’ve deleted pages, tossed out entire manuscripts, and given up years to their craft, all in the effort to connect to a reader they may never meet. I hope new writers understand that in this endeavour of ours, it’s not about talent, but about perseverance, patience, and respecting the reader for whom you’re writing.

Are there common themes/ threads throughout your work?

I think the themes of hope, resiliency, humor through difficult times, and claiming selfidentity often show up in my work.

You visit many schools and libraries to reach young readers and writers. What do you tell them about the creation of stories?

Ha, that it’s hard! One of the sad things I see is when writers put down great manuscripts because they don’t fully understand what a grind writing can be. They’re discouraged and believe the reason the story isn’t finished is because they lack talent. Not true!

I’m honest with my audience about what a frustrating task it can be, because I want to encourage them to set attainable goals, practice self-care, and to find ways to quiet that internal editor that whispers, “If only you were good at this…”

With my sessions, we talk a lot about

TOPShelf Interviews how much story matters. Books change the world because they change how we view our environment, ourselves, and our society. It’s crucial that we understand the importance of our stories and find ways to tell those tales.

Do you have a particular writing style, or methods that help with creative flow?

Baahhahaaa, not even a little bit! Every day is a new day for me. I try for a certain amount of routine (writing in the morning, taking breaks, rewarding myself for a good faith effort), but I also gauge what my obligations and commitments are for the day, and then set my daily goals. Some days, it’ll be a few hours in the office. Other days, I’m going to count myself lucky if I open a file.

If there was one tip I could pass on, it would be to find what grounds you as a writer and what sparks your creativity. Is it writing in the evenings? Writing in a sunny spot? Find the moments in which you can get your words in, then build your day around them.

What fills your time when you are not writing?

I have two jobs. I’m a full-time writer and I also work as a Personal Assistant to three furry creatures, who feel serving them should be my full-time job! They fill a lot of time, but they also keep me company in the early mornings and late nights, so they get away with it.

When I’m not writing, I read, both for pleasure and to keep educated in the industry, and I definitely try to keep connected with friends and family. Writing can be lonely and isolating. Authors spend a lot of time by themselves, living in their heads.

It’s important for my self-care to get out of my head as much as I can, and I count myself lucky that I have friends, family, and creatures that help me find balance in my life.

How has being an immigrant shaped your view of the world?

My origin story is an unusual one. I was born in Canada and when I was three-weeksold, my family moved back home to Guyana.

Five years after that, we returned to Canada.

So, I was born a Canadian but my experience with Canada is an immigrant experience, if that makes sense.

As I get older, I feel fortunate that I am a child of two countries, and a mixed-race kid.

It has allowed me to learn from a variety of viewpoints and to see different perspectives and ways of embracing the world.

Read our interview with Natasha Deen at:

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February 2021

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Teddy is a dog in need of a new home after living at the animal shelter for so long. Lisa is on a quest to find a home for Teddy. When her plans to invite some friends over to meet the dog fail, she lets him stay at her house temporarily. but not forever. Poor Teddy! Will he ever find a family that will love him and make him their own?

Genre: Children’s Price: $19.95

Siblings...Our rst friends. Our rst enemies.Our past. Our present. The Bronx, New York, 1972 Being Brothers is a story, within a story, within a story, sparked by the fortuitous, lifechanging epiphany of Mark Marino, a content middle-aged man who discovers an untapped well of repressed, unrealized dreams. Another character, Jack Amato, frequently revisits the Neighborhood to ground himself by the sights, smells and memories of the past, through the coming-of-age experiences of Jackie, the spacy, slightly awkward, yet lovable version of his younger self who grew up in the Bronx in the 1970s…

Genre: Coming of Age Fiction Price: $10.99

Emma's life changes the day Ruben Templeton walks in and asks her out on a date. Over dinner, Ruben's undivided attention flatters her and she's a little disappointed when his best friend, Jesse Kimball, joins them. Jesse is a senator's son who just announced his candidacy for mayor. Accustomed to a quiet life, insecure 27-year-old Emma is hesitant but excited when Jesse calls the next day, to invite her to his birthday party.

It doesn't take long for Jesse to sweep her off her feet, and when Emma receives devastating news…

A childhood promise! A lost boy! The Orphan Train! A life on hold! Obsessed By A Promise, a work of historical ction, o ers a fascinating glimpse into a little known event in American history; the Orphan Train movement. JT Saunders grew up homeless on the streets of New York City at the onset of the Great Depression. Through perseverance and hard work he gained money and prestige, married and had a son, yet it all meant little to him because, as an eleven-year old, he had promised his father he’d keep his little brother safe. He failed…

Genre: Romance Price: $14.99

Genre: Historical Fiction Price: $16.99

Love is in the air, and Snowman Paul is eager to get into the lovefilled Valentine's Day spirit. "But what is love" he wants to know, "...for one like me just made of snow?” How will Dan describe the meaning of love to his best friend who happens to be a Snowman?

With stunning watercolor illustrations and delightful rhymes, this holiday-themed picture book explores the meaning of Valentine's Day and show just how much fun it can be with beloved family and good friends.

The Alaska Territory, 1925.

When Yura Noongwook’s husband abandons her and her thirteen-year-old son, she vows to win him back and destroy the woman who stole his heart. They embark on an epic cross-country quest that leads them to the Nevada desert, where they meet a man who has turned into the last thing anyone expected him to become …

Genre: Children’s Price: $0.99 (KINDLE) Genre: Christian Fiction Price: $12.95

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Due to hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are extending the early-bird pricing for our TopShelf Book Awards for duration of the 2021 season.

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OCTOBER2017 9

Where does you love of writing come from, and your love of fantasy in particular?

I think I was born telling stories. (In a way, that is true because my mother said that she knew me at the moment of my birth because in my first cry she heard her father’s laugh). From the time I read or saw my first adventure tale, I was hooked.

One of the earliest photos of me is in a Zorro outfit. I wanted to engage in derring do. Preferably with a sword in hand. I became an actor so I could live a life telling stories. Eventually I knew I needed to tell my own. (I also became an actor so I would get paid to leap around with bladed weaponry)

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH BESTSELLING FANTASY AUTHOR, CHRIS HUMPHREYS

How much time do you spend on research and/ or world-building before you begin the first draft of a novel?

If it’s historical fiction, I usually research for a couple of months before I start writing, then that tells me what I need to keep researching – it’s an ongoing process.

With fantasy, there’s usually a little less pure research of place and times.

However that’s not true of The Tapestry Trilogy because it is set in our world, present day, and also in another world, Goloth: Land of the Fabulous Beasts. This is like earth’s shadow world, a world where all our myths live. So I had to research the full Bestiary. I began writing the book because I needed to figure out what it meant that I have worn a unicorn on my hand since I was 18. (It’s a ring, with the family crest). What does a unicorn mean? Once I learned it was unconquerable – except by a maiden – I had the beginning of the story. That a touch of its horn could remove poisons gave me more. Then, when I discovered the stunning Unicorn Tapestries in New York, I had both my door between worlds and the amazing world of weaving to explore. So, yes, the usual few months of research, more once I’d dived in – and then the other beasts appeared!

You are an international best-selling author, and your novels have won many awards. What do you think sets your work apart from others in the same genre?

Interesting question. Most good writers all do similar things: try to create compelling characters and then put them through hell. I know you ask this question later – about me being an actor – but I know that is the difference in my writing from some others.

It is almost as if I am giving my characters a good role. Lots of aws, lots of con ict, so that when they win out they have really achieved something against the odds. I have

been in enough bad television to know when I read the script I think: there is nothing to play here. No stakes. I always try to give my characters something to play.

What inspired The Tapestry Trilogy?

That ring, as I said – trying to gure out what a unicorn meant once, and could mean again. Then the tapestries themselves.

I saw them online, then visited the Cloisters (the medieval collection of the Metropolitan Museum, in Fort Tryon Park, New York City). I was blown away by these extraordinary pieces of art. Huge, lled with action, beasts, humans. You feel like you are looking at a painting – yet it is made from colored thread going down, and going across. Warp and weft. How do you get a twinkle in a hunter’s eye? Also, these tapestries are a mystery – no one knows who they were made by, who they were made for, exactly when or where they were made. Mysteries are good for writers – you can ll in the gaps. So the woven, joined ‘A’ and ‘E’ that appears in the corner of each tapestry? Of course it stands for AliceElayne, the original weaver’s daughter from the 15th Century – and my 21st Century protagonist in Manhattan.

What role does myth play in plot of the Tapestry Trilogy?

It’s the core of it. I imagined a world where our myths live – especially the ones about fabulous beasts. I thought: why stop at a unicorn? So there are griffins, manticore, cockatrice … dragons! Their abilities, the powers they had in myth become a reality in Goloth. Especially the one about the unicorn being able to cure poisons and sickness with a touch of his ivory horn. That is something that proves vital both sides of the tapestry portal, in Goloth and in New York. But I won’t say anything more about that!

Tell us a bit about the character Elayne, and the journey she goes through in The Tapestry Trilogy?

Joseph Campbell, the great writer on mythology, talks about the stages of the Hero’s Journey. An early stage is: The hero refuses the call to adventure. Elayne is a normal New York girl – well, not quite because she is a bit of a loner, is not big on social media, and tends to prefer books over Tic Tok. So when she is summoned by a unicorn and nds herself in a very dangerous medieval world where it appears she is ‘the prophesied one’ come to end the

TOPShelf Interviews tyrants king’s reign, she understandably goes: ‘Who? Me? Forget it!’ But as the story progresses she nds her courage, learns the skills she needs and, especially, bonds with the 500 year old unicorn, Moonspill, who summoned her. She always has moments of Why Me? But throughout the series she grows in strength – and learns not to be so much of a loner. Learns that it is ok to accept help – and even love.

Is it challenging to juggle the arc of a story, character, and series at the same time? How do you manage this?

Yes, always challenging.

But this was a bit different.

Because originally I was only commissioned to write one book, the first, ‘The Hunt of the Unicorn’. So I juggled arc and character but thought it was only going to be within one book. Then I found I was really missing the characters and I had left Goloth kind of on a knife’s edge. Plus, I thought: who doesn’t want to write about dragons? Hence Book Two: ‘The Hunt of the Dragon’. Really thought that was it… but the same things happened. I needed to conclude the whole epic with a third book.

So, ‘The Hunt of the Shapeshifters’ was born.

But that’s it! Honest! (I think)

You are an actor as well as an author.

How do these two art forms complement each other?

As I said above, it affects my writing, how and why I create character the way I do. I mainly write full time these days but I make sure I get back to the theatre at least once a year. (At least I did before… well, you know!) Telling other peoples’ stories helps you with your own. Seeing what an audience is receptive to is also very informative and can be used on the page.

What makes people laugh and cry?

What projects will you be tackling in the future?

Ha! Well, speaking of… I am in the early stages of writing a World War Two saga/ romance loosely based on my parents’ story. ‘cos my dad was a ghter pilot and my mum was a spy in the Norwegian Resistance. How can I not write that?

Read our interview with Chris Humphreys at:

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February 2021

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I didn’t have a particular favorite genre when I was younger. It was the story that hooked me, or didn’t, and if that was set in medieval London or on the ice planet Tharg it was one and the same as long as the story was good. But I realized that fantasy was a place where you could often nd a good epic, the best kind of tale for me. High stakes, swordplay, ‘other worldliness’. When I discovered Stephen Donaldson’s Thomas Covenant books I found not only great characters and an epic scale, but also ambiguity. One of the things I most like in books is characters who are more than one thing – villains who do heroic things. Heroes with deep aws.

Fantasy is great for that

 

TOPShelf Discoveries

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"..a deeply personal memoir of abuse written from the inside out by someone who's now fighting for fellow victims both past, present and future."

JON LAND, USA BESTSELLING AUTHOR

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OCTOBER2017 13

You are releasing three new books on the topic of civility (Manufacturing Civility, Civility at Work, Golden Rule Peace and Civility). What new information will your upcoming titles provide?

Manufacturing Civility is focused on civil communications in manufacturing workplaces- these can be tough environments, old-school leadership styles, and union, decades of traditional approach can clash with younger and more diverse employee teams––we help address these clashes.

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AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH INTERNATIONALLYACCLAIMED CIVILITY EXPERT AND AUTHOR, DR. LEW BAYER

In Civility at Work - we update the research and tools/resources we covered in The 30% Solution - civility is a burgeoning eld in terms of research so there is a lot of new information to share. Lastly, in Golden Rule Peace and Civility––we look at civil dialogue and global communications––how to navigate our increasingly connected world of business.

work and in life, in establishing a reputation for credibility and trust, and for navigating social change and cultural diversity.

What inspired your interest in civility and how has it flourished into a business?

I initially became interested in civility when I was working as Director of Catering for a hotel and guests would ask for help planning menus and events, about wedding etiquette, podium protocols, etc. I began studying etiquette and protocol and found it was a bigger concept than I thought, e.g., not just event planning or etiquette, not just professional polish or impression management, but also about social intelligence and culture and respect- all of these things combined make up civility. When I started out I had a business partner and we focused on social skills and etiquette for children but the demand and scope quickly grew and now I own the business on my own and focus on civility.

How do you define civility?

A conscious awareness of the impact of one’s thoughts, actions, words and intentions on others. In combination with a continuous acknowledgement of one’s responsibility to ease the experience of others, and a consistent effort to adopt and exhibit civil behavior as a non-negotiable point of one’s character.

Why is civility important?

Civility is critical to long term success in building lasting, trusting relationships in www.TopShelfMagazine.net

TOPShelf Interviews Can you tell us about World Civility Day? World Civility Day - to my knowledge was started in Gary, Indiana by a group of like-minded individuals who wanted to build civility in the community- now cities all around the world celebrate the day and organize training and speeches and awards related to civility.

How have your thoughts on civility changed over the years?

I have come to learn that civility is a values proposition, that it is part of who you are---your character--versus just something you do. And you can teach competency in civility. It can be learned.

Has the pandemic affected your ability to reach out to others?

What are some common misconceptions about civility?

Many people think civility is just about manners or “Martha Stewart perfectionism” – in fact is it not about those thingsstandards and social rules are just one small part of civility.

What is inside the pages of your book The 30% Solution?

The 30% Solution is a toolkit for civility at work. It addressed the business case for civility, de nition, how to start a workplace civility initiative, and how to build competency in civility.

Certainly there is some value in teaching social skills “live” or face to face, but the pandemic has offered opportunity to explore other modes of communication, other aspects of life, e.g., stress management, empathy, collective care, consideration for how our behavior impacts others, positive communication, online communication etc.

What is one of the most memorable stories/ scenarios of civility that you will always carry with you?

At the height- or highest level, I believe civility is about grace and humility, it’s about forgiveness and humanity and resilience and so a story about a Rwandan woman who survived 90 days in a bathroom and taught herself French while in hiding- and then forgave those who murdered her entire family after the fact …that is a civility story, I never get tired of hearing or sharing.

Read the complete interview with Dr. Lew Bayer at:

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February 2021

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What inspired your Fountain series?

The Fountain Series was inspired by parenting, believe it or not.

I have three kids and I want to give them absolutely everything in life.

But I know that isn’t the best thing for them.

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AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH BOOK COACH, EDITOR, PUBLIC SPEAKER, AND YOUNG ADULT AUTHOR, SUZY VADORI

So, the premise for the series was, what if a well-meaning founder of St. Augustus, the boarding school that the kids in The Fountain Series attend, gave them a magical fountain that granted everything they asked for? What would they wish for and what would the consequences be?

Because there always has to be consequences.

Throughout the series, I layered wishes on top of wishes, which created a tricky timeline that was fun to play with, creating chaos in the world of St. Augustus, the boarding school they attend. I just love that world and I’m so happy that readers love it, too.

girl you meet in the fountain, where quite frankly, she deserved to get wished away.

Book 3 – Wall of Wishes wraps up the series when the two girls, Ava and Courtney, have to work together to save the fountain. St. Augustus, the boarding school they attend, sells The West Woods to make way for a new road. The girls believe that if the fountain is destroyed, all the wishes ever made on the fountain going back a century will be destroyed as well, undoing a wish Ava’s father made that may threaten her existence.

Why do you choose to write YA, instead of a different audience/ genre?

How do you develop characters and worlds? I wanted to write a book that could be I am in love with creating magic systems, so for many of my books, the rules and special quirks that the world’s magic creates is where I start. Truthfully, my characters often start out being similar to someone I’ve met as a way to build them quickly, complete with their best features and all their flaws. So, watch out, I might put your personality in one of my books.

But, realistically, my characters change through the writing process until in the end, they aren’t recognizable. I’ve never had anyone call me on it…

Are there specific strategies you use for writing a series?

I used to think writing book two in a series would be so much easier, because you’ve already mapped out the characters, and the world. But it’s actually harder – because you’ve already mapped out the characters, and the world, and you can’t have the reader rediscover the same things along their journey. So, with each book I’m deliberate about adding to the world, creating new settings, new magic and new characters to go on the next adventure.

How will the final book in the series connect with the first two novels?

Book 1 – The Fountain – is about sixteenyear-old Ava, who makes a wish that one of the girls at school would disappear, and then it comes true.

Book 2 – The West Woods – is the story of the girl who got wished away. It’s actually a prequel, happening the year before The Fountain. It’s Courtney’s story – how the magic of the school turned her into the

enjoyed by teens and adults alike, and young adult achieves this. When I was a teen, there were middle grade books, and then books for adults. I was inspired as this genre emerged over the last fifteen years or so, and I’m so happy to write books my own kids can read and be proud of.

What sets YA literature apart from other genres?

So many things! Young Adult books can include many genres, from fantasy to historical fiction, to literary. But the coming-of-age stories featured in YA books are amazing moments of firsts for the characters. First decisions, first consequences, first loves… all amazing and so fun to write.

Also, the pacing. Young adult books keep the pages turning, so that young readers don’t get bored, and I love the challenge of writing this way. It’s just as exciting to write as it is to read.

What is a book coach and what is involved in your book coaching business?

A Book Coach is like having a personal trainer for your writing life. I help writers at any stage of their writing with project management, editing and writing skills, and emotional support during the roller coaster ride of writing a book.

I am an Author Accelerator Advanced Certified Book Coach and I am so lucky to work with fiction and nonfiction writers to get the book exploding in their minds onto the page. It’s definitely the Cadillac version of writing support and increases the chances of a writer finishing their writing projects and

TOPShelf Interviews experiencing success. I work with writers in all children’s genres, from picture books to young adult, fiction authors writing fantasy, science fiction and thrillers for adults, and non-fiction writers creating business books, self-help and narrative memoir.

I work with writers at any stage of their writing journey, whether they’re just getting started, trying to

How do you benefit from assisting other authors?

When I first started writing, I tentatively introduced myself to the writing community and was overwhelmed by the amount of support I received. I met my first publisher through my communities, my publicist, and even my agent. It’s my honor and absolute pleasure to help point newer writers in the right direction or to share what I’ve learned in the decade I’ve been in the industry. I get calls and emails daily from writers looking for information, and I’m so happy to connect with each and every one.

You are a writer, editor, coach, and more. Is it challenging to take on many different roles in the writing community?

It’s immensely challenging, but that’s part of the fun for me! I was a business executive for twenty years before I left my job as a Vice President at a company to do all things writing full time.

Making a living as a writer is possible, but you have to get creative and be willing to work for it. This pandemic year in particular, I’ve changed course because I’m doing much less speaking and teaching in person. This year I’ve built a small team to support everything I’m doing and make sure I’m carving out enough time for my own writing.

My best advice for writers looking to turn their passion into a career is to play to your own strengths. You can definitely look to what others are doing for inspiration, but it’s possible to build your writing life around the things you love best, so pay attention to what lights you up and you can’t go wrong.

Read the complete interview with Suzy Vadori at:

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OCTOBER2017 19

With his career on thin ice and fresh ink on his divorce papers, Sacramento PD Detective Connor Parks goes searching for solace at the bottom of a bottle…and winds up in the arms of a beautiful woman. By morning she’s gone, and the one clue she left behind sends Connor on a desperate mission to unravel a decade-old mystery —her abduction. Presumed dead for the last ten years, Claire Fletcher has been living her life as “Lynn,” a woman in the terrifying grip of her captor…

What if you could time-travel back into the past to meet the man of your dreams for a steamy, fantasy romance at a time when it would be possible for him to fall in love with you? Susan does just that when she meets two ladies from Haiti while on a cruise with her childhood friend, Lynn. Mika, the elderly of the two ladies claims she can see into Susan’s soul, and that if she sends her back in time to meet James, the man who Susan has dreamed of for fty years…

Genre: Thriller Price: $15.95

Genre: Time Travel Romance Price: $8.99

Twenty-one years after eeing Earth due to a genetic plague that decimated the population, the Galileo Colony Ship Kutanga arrives at Gaia, an Earth-like world in the Alpha Centauri system. The ship carries the memories and DNA of 4,492 human survivors and Aneni, the ship’s AI commander, is on a mission to save them. But she has a problem—instead of finding an uninhabited world, devoid of intelligent life and ready to receive her precious cargo, she finds a planet populated by ten’s of millions of people.

Against an international landscape of power, affluence, and fear Truth Gives Strength to Wings, the creative memoir by child sex abuse prevention advocate, Katy Sudano, breathes life into the tormented soul of a young woman who defied the odds and defined what it means to dig deep for strength, passion, and love of life. Katy's refusal to allow the abuse of her past interfere with an insatiable desire to find happiness, and break the vicious cycle of abandonment that had destroyed nearly her entire world…

Genre: Science Fiction Price: $ 15.99

Genre: Memoir Price: $16.99

From a stranded alien comedian to the darkest depths of the human psyche; from a mindblowing galactic adventure to clandestine extraterrestrial behavior on Earth. They’re all here in this spell-binding collection of short stories to keep you guessing at every turn.

With tales of alien invasion, deep space mystery, time travel, and dystopian future Earths, this is a collection which takes inspiration from the much respected ‘old masters’ of Science Fiction. Here be new realms to explore—can you cross the void and challenge your dreams?

Skyla Overland is proud to work for Overland Insurance, the company founded by her grandfather. Besides one nervewracking insurance fraud case in the past, her sheltered life is uneventful and just the way she likes it. Until one day, everything changes... Skyla and Troy, the manager at Overland Insurance, are the last ones to leave the o ce. In the empty parking lot, Troy takes her in his arms. Why would he ruin their easy-going friendship by kissing her, especially since he knows she’s dating Edmond? …

Genre: Science Fiction Price: $19.95

Genre: Thriller Price: $14.99

REMINDER This is an interactive magazine. Click on a book cover to learn more or to purchase.

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TOPShelf Spotlights

Quill and Ink is a podcast for book lovers where hosts Miranda Oh and Jenna Greene take you behind the scenes to see how stories are created.

LISTEN ON:

We are proud to be part of the Authors on the Air Global Radio Network.

Hardcover

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COMING OF AGE–– AND ALL THAT JAZZ!

Grady Harp is an Amazon Top 50 Reviewer and has collaborated with Creative Edge Media to provide quality book reviews. Creative Edge is a publicity rm specializing in arranging events such as book signings, library or school presentations, online and print media opportunities, and many other related events.

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Teen & YA

Canadian author Natasha Deen was born in Guyana and immigrated to Canada, where she has become a prizewinning author of books for children, teens, and adults. The gift for character development is apparent from page one as Natasha introduces both her primary character Nira and her 'friend' McKenzie. The story is well distilled in the synopsis: 'Nira Ghani has always dreamed of becoming a musician. Her Guyanese parents, however, have big plans for her to become a scientist or doctor. Nira's grandmother and her best friend, Emily, are the only people who seem to truly understand her desire to establish an identity outside of the one imposed on Nira by her parents...". Very capably combining a strong coming of age story with a valued exploration of con icts in immigrant households, cultural idiosyncrasies, and a following a dream philosophy that crowns this novel, Natasha Deen has become a standardbearer for the art of meaningful (and entertaining) stories. Very highly recommended for abroad audience. ~Grady Harp

Non-Fiction

Paperback

$12.95

Fantasy

Paperback

$20.00

“WORK SUCK FOR MOST PEOPLE MOST OF THE TIME” ~ A WISE REMEDY FROM TWO EXPERTS

“LET ALL SEE THE WEAVER’S PROPHECY” ~A VISUAL, CINEMATIC DELIGHT!

With careful, well-considered language and instruction, the authors offer insight into the how, the why, and the what-if aspects of altering the atmosphere and hence the productivity and morale of everyone in the workplace (with a particular emphasis on manufacturing, as the title denotes). Their formula for how civility is a continuous improvement strategy for manufacturing civility - the 6 Cs for solving people problems – Character, Courage, Change Readiness, Communication, Competence, Consistency. Recognizing, accepting, and employing these factors produces positive change in individual morale, wellness, and outlook. Both authors impress with their sincerity of thought and communication. This book focuses our attention on kindness – a trait that appears to be diminishing somewhat in the IT environment and even more evident during the pandemic!

The book is an invaluable aid to business leaders, a sensible and accessible strategy to improve all aspects of life in the workplace. These attributes are important for our daily interactions as citizens. Civility – a trait so important for continuous improvement in living. RESTORE! Very Highly Recommended.

The author’s ability to comfortably transport the reader in time travel, his exceptional mixture of fantasy and reality, is an aspect of his writing skills are apparent from the opening of the book as we learn about tapestries of the series title: ‘It was the summer of her fourteenth year that the life of Alice-Elayne Robochon changed entirely, in a single day, almost in a single moment. Yet a day that would end in such sadness began so happily.

For she was doing the thing she most loved in this world. She was watching her father weave…Watching him work that fateful day Alice-Elayne understood the awe in which he was held. The way his fingers danced between warp and weft…’ This key element is welldeveloped in this mythological/historical fantasy, as the author’s summary, discloses.

Chris Humphreys imbues this tale with the art of weaving, not only as of the core of this book but also in the manner in which he so deftly positions reality with fantasy – a true and splendid tapestry of a story that primes s for the nest installments in this Tapestry Trilogy. Very highly recommended!

Children’s

Paperback

$7.95

THE STORIES TOLD OF A SICKNESS SPREADING THROUGHOUT ITALY… A TIMELY NEW NOVEL Written for the teen and Young Adult audience, Liz As we are in the midst of a pandemic, struggling to understand it, struggling to survive, Natasha very wisely pens a new volume of the series - GIRLS SURVIVE – and this volume is MARIA AND THE PLAGUE, a story about the Black Plague of 1347 -1351 that took the lives of 75 – 200 people throughout Eurasia and North Africa. Allowing her readers to learn of individual responses to that plague is even more credible as we experience COVID 19. The writing ows smoothly, enhanced by the ne illustrations by Francesca Ficorilli. This is an episode in a series that promises twenty volumes about surviving tough times, providing a glimmer of inspiration and hope for us all now. Natasha Deen has become a standard-bearer for the art of meaningful (and entertaining) novels. Very highly recommended for abroad audience. ~Grady Harp

~Grady Harp

~Grady Harp

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