Monday, March 18, 2024

#Bookreview of Mark's Way by Thomas Willis


Mark's Way

By: Thomas Willis
Publisher: Tifton Press
Publication Date: July 2023
ISBN: 979-8989305209
Reviewed by: Diana Coyle
Review Date: March 15, 2024
When Jim Herbert decided to have a quick fling with a pretty woman, Tanya Griffin, who he met at a local bar, he could never have imagined that night would be the catalyst for his life changing forever. Now, being charged with suspicion of murder, Jim must find a way to prove his innocence in Mark's Way, a thriller that lives up to the name "thriller."
Who would have thought a night of some fun could turn so seriously out of control for both Jim and Tanya? After waking, he realized he not only had to treat his pounding headache, but also needed to leave before things got awkward in the morning for the both of them. He decided to help himself to some aspirin in Tanya’s medicine cabinet, but in the process dropped the water glass, which caused it to shatter all over the bathroom floor. Quickly trying to clean up the mess and not disturb snoring Tanya, Jim cut himself badly and left blood all over the bathroom. During all the commotion, Tanya hadn’t budged and just kept snoring away. When Jim finally left her apartment, he not only made sure the door was locked behind him, but he also knew this was going to be a one-time fling. A short time later, when the police came to arrest him, things went from bad to worse in a hurry.
Mark Price and Jim became friends years ago when Jim was still married to Julie. Although they grew apart in their marriage, they shared custody with their special needs daughter, Libby. Jim was Libby’s world and they were extremely close. Julie believed Jim was innocent and would do anything to help him prove it, so she asked their mutual friend, Mark, to look into Jim’s case. Mark received top notch training in the Special Forces and had served his time during the Vietnam War. If anyone could find the person who framed Jim, it was Mark. Being visited in jail by Mark was a surprise Jim didn’t see coming, but a welcomed one when Mark decided to help Jim prove his innocence. Why was Jim framed for murder, and by whom? Can Mark find enough evidence before Jim is put to death for a murder he didn’t commit?
Readers will immediately be pulled into this riveting thriller. As you turn the pages, each chapter is dedicated to a specific character whose story will unfold specific details, little by little, that will lead you further along this harrowing tale. Each chapter builds on the last, which makes the story more intriguing by the minute. This is a thriller in which readers will find themselves gripping their books tighter than usual because they can’t help but become so entangled in Jim’s unfortunate life-changing circumstances. Willis does an excellent job placing the reader in Jim’s shoes and having them worry as each day ticks by, wondering if evidence will be found that will exonerate him. This reviewer enjoyed following Mark as he tried speaking with people who he hoped would provide enough evidence to free Jim of his life-altering criminal charge. Clearly you could see how Mark’s Special Forces training led him from one lead to another – making sure he obtained the information he was looking for from each of his contacts. He was on a mission to find evidence to help Jim, and he stopped at nothing to do it. Without a doubt you hope that Mark would be the right man, at the right time, to find the evidence that truly proved Jim’s innocence.
Quill says: Mark’s Way is one thriller where readers will find their pulse quickening and their hearts pounding. It comes highly recommended by this reviewer!

#Bookreview of Eden by Jamie Lisa Forbes


Eden

By: Jamie Lisa Forbes
Publisher: Pronghorn Press
Publication Date: May 22, 2020
ISBN: 978-1-941052-37-2
Reviewed by: Nellie Calanni
Review Date: March 14, 2024
When college-bound Rowen Hart is left reeling from his father’s suicide, he finds himself having to become the man of the house and navigate the waters of his rural, very racially divided town in 1950s North Carolina. What will his future hold now that the aftermath of his father’s death has left him and his mother in undesirable circumstances? Jamie Lisa Forbes takes readers along Rowen’s journey through manhood and adulthood and shines a light on the pivotal people he meets along the way in her newest novel Eden.
Eden begins with Rowen months after his father’s suicide, in his new home on the outskirts of town with his bedridden-from-grief Mama and devoted housekeeper Adeline. He is discouraged by his inability to hold a steady job and perform tasks that every man in White Rock, North Carolina is expected to have perfected by his age. Daddy never taught him how to fix anything or lift a finger for that matter, and so the broken gate out front remains broken and the land at Sawyer’s remains untended to. One morning, he decides to be late for work on Sawyer’s property, but not for any common excuse. There’s a murder trial taking place – Franklin White has been accused of killing his drunkard brother-in-law, Birch Whitney – and Rowen is curious and thankful for another scandal to be overshadowing his father’s untimely death.
Rowen’s interest in the case is soon piqued for another reason. Eden, the murder victim’s 10-year-old firecracker of a daughter, is called to the stand. She witnessed her uncle kill her father right before her eyes and is happy to tell anyone who will listen. Rest assured the whole town is listening, but believing her account is another story. Eden’s mother, if you can call her that, has decided she’s had enough of her daughter’s testimony and shameful presence, so what is a 10-year-old accused of lying to do? Run away to the outskirts of town and have someone else take her in.
When Eden shows up at Rowen’s home with only the clothes on her back, Adeline and Mama are pleased to take in the child. Rowen, however, is not. Eden is brash and brazen for her age, curious and ill-mannered too. Between his boss Sawyer, his co-worker Sammy, his greedy Uncle Hugh, Eden, Adeline, Mama, and his soon-to-be-wife Jewell constantly breathing down his neck, Rowen struggles to keep up with demands and expectations. An unforeseen bright spot throughout Rowen’s toils, however, is his budding friendship with Eden. As he spends more time with her, Rowen begins to see the world through her eyes, and regrets not being more of an open-minded young man. Then one day, everything changes – again. Eden’s mother has come to take her back. Rowen doesn’t know it yet, but he won’t see Eden again until she’s grown with adult struggles of her own. What will become of their reconciliation? It’s an emotional ride for readers as well as the characters in Eden.
Jamie Lisa Forbes details 1950s small-town North Carolina in a way that makes readers feel like they’re sweltering in the heat of the courtroom and shivering amidst the coldness of racial and class prejudices. To be able to communicate to the audience different relationship dynamics, whether it’s intimate relationships, friendships that break racial barriers, family ties, or the relationship an individual has with themselves, in such a heartbreaking and realistic way shows her dedication to understanding diverse backgrounds and what it meant to have grown up in the south during such emotionally charged times. This book is the perfect reminder for readers that life would be much less colorful if not for the people we meet along the way.
Quill says: Unexpected relationships can be the most rewarding, and award-winning author Jamie Lisa Forbes details them beautifully throughout Eden.
For more information about Eden, please visit the author's website at: https://www.jamielisaforbes.com/

Meet Author Susan H. Hines


Meet Author Susan H. Hines in her new author bio page and learn about her new book, Buckley's Family Fishing Trip.
@authorsusanhhines
https://featheredquill.com/author-bios-susan-hines/

Friday, March 15, 2024

March Book Giveaway




Have you entered this month's book giveaway yet? It's your chance to win a brand-new copy of "A Change in Destiny" by Janet Shawgo. This book was a winner in our 2024 Feathered Quill Book Awards. The contest form is simple and only takes a minute to fill out. And... we don't save contact information so you don't have to worry about FQ contacting you after you enter. Just go to our main page, scroll to the bottom, and you'll see the entry form: https://featheredquill.com

Thursday, March 14, 2024

#Bookreview of Becoming Forever Families by Robert Callaway


Becoming Forever Families

By: Robert Callaway
Publisher: Atmosphere Press
Publication Date: May 16, 2023
ISBN: 978-1639888511
Reviewed by: Kathy Stickles
Review Date: March 12, 2024
Becoming Forever Families is an intriguing and easy-to-read book that delves into religion, spirituality, and the dynamics of family. The book addresses various ideas about family and what happens to them after their lives on earth are finished.
Becoming Forever Families is the continuation of the story of the Wilkinson Family that the author introduced us to in his previous books. In this newest offering, readers are shown what a “forever family” is as well as showing the reader exactly what the Lord’s plan is for us and our family members as we pass from this life into the next one. Reading the story of Sarah, her new husband Wayne, and her children, Ethan and Alexis, is quite uplifting. The reader will learn how this family came to be and how deeply they believe in the Lord making everything perfect for them and their friends as they move forward.
The connections of a strong family are front-and-center throughout the book and give the reader so very much to think about in terms of what the real purpose of family is and what Christ can do and give to us as we travel through life. It also shows what the plan is for those who may have no actual family in life and how they can become an extended part of the forever family created in the book. There are so many blessings that are bestowed on all of us every day, and Becoming Forever Families describes how to accept these blessings and make them a part of an entire family.
Robert Callaway has given his readers an interesting insight into his beliefs about what the Lord can do for each of us, regardless of the trials that we must deal with and overcome. Becoming Forever Families is a book that will show the reader the huge potential that their future offers if they embrace some of these views. The writing, while it may be a bit simplistic to some, is done well and the book is very well-organized so that readers who might want to revisit and explore a particular idea will be able to do so with ease. The reading guide at the end of the book is a much-needed and well-developed addition to the book and will prove very thought-provoking and encouraging to the reader.
Overall Becoming Forever Families is a good book that will be embraced by many who enjoy a spiritual story that may help them grow in their own beliefs as they read. It is one that will give the reader a deeper understanding of one man’s ideas about Christ’s plan for us and for our families. While I feel it will appeal to a smaller audience, those who are interested in it will adore it and I would recommend it easily to this group.
Quill says: Becoming Forever Families is an interesting and moving look into what one's family will look like after this life. The author presents many interesting arguments that will cause readers to really dig into themselves and think hard.
For more information on Becoming Forever Families, please visit the author's website at: https://anewperspectiveonautism.com/

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

#AuthorInterview with Sarah H. Hines


Today, Feathered Quill reviewer Holly Connors is talking with Susan H. Hines, author of Buckley's Family Fishing Trip.

FQ: Before asking questions about your book, I like to get to know the author. Please tell us (and our readers) a little bit about yourself - your background, what led you to want to become an author, and why children's books.

HINES: Hello, I'm Susan H. Hines, the owner of TJP Publications and the author of the Buckley children's book series. I am a lifelong learner who holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL and earned multiple advanced degrees in Business Administration and Information Systems. Additionally, I am a certified IT Project Manager with a background in supporting early childhood education in daycare systems. My commitment to continuous learning enables me to stay updated on technologies, enhancing my interactions with children. Staying informed about current trends highlights my dedication to early literacy goals. I have a 10-year-old grandson and currently live in the Atlanta Metropolitan area with my husband, Edward, and our Standard Schnauzer, Sir Winston Buckley, who is the main character in the Buckley Children Book Series.

FQ: I noticed from reading your bio, your Amazon page, etc., that early childhood education is very important to you. Where did this passion come from? 

HINES: Growing up as the youngest among eight siblings has immersed me in a world of young children throughout my life. Actively taking part in the upbringing of my twenty-three nieces and nephews has shaped my perspective. I strongly believe that being around children keeps one youthful at heart, adventurous spirit and enables your inner child to explore boundless possibilities. Having a nurturing environment where learning is encouraged is crucial before the world's influences take hold of a child. Reflecting on my childhood, I cherished reading, creating, and performing adventure stories with my best friend Jennifer and my beloved rag doll Penelope. Our backyard escapades fueled our imaginative journeys. As an adult, I still enjoy creating stories and skits, which enables me to keep the spirit of adventure alive. and immerses me in a realm of creativity, evoking the comforting nostalgia of childhood. Writing has been a lifelong passion, highlighting my vivid imagination and artistic expression. A standout memory includes watching Star Wars with my family, igniting a creative spark that led to reenacting scenes at home. Reciting movie lines in front of the mirror, often with the help of my siblings, helped me keep details in a light-hearted and enjoyable manner. The magic of words and their musical harmony, enabling me to conjure vivid mental imagery, remains a source of endless fascination.

FQ: In line with my last question, you state on your website that it's important for you to help develop "early literacy skills and enhance their imagination..." I truly believe that excellent quality children's books and parents reading to their children on a regular basis is very important. Why do you think so many parents leave the learning up to the child's phone or tablet? What would you tell parents about the importance of reading to their children?

HINES: The progression of technology has undoubtedly brought convenience, yet one must question its implications. What is the price we pay? This is a question I often ponder. I believe that certain aspects, no matter how convenient, cannot replace the value of human interactions. This belief was reinforced when I stumbled upon a TED Talk by Molly Wright, a 7-year-old, titled "How Every Child Can Thrive by Five." Wright presented compelling examples illustrating the significance of parental engagement through activities like playing, talking, and sharing laughter in a child's learning and growth. She emphasized that these early interactions are vital for a child's brain development, enabling them to reach their full potential. Five key areas highlighted by Wright for parent-child interaction are connecting, communicating, playing, keeping a healthy home environment, and engaging with the community. Children receive help from activities like mimicking games that foster connections, naming games that enhance focus and attention, and interactive games like peek-a-boo that aid in memory and trust-building. Such interactions instill life skills, nurture trust, and are essential for navigating the world. 

Early and frequent engagement with children is crucial. When children are deprived of parental attention due to excessive use of technology, their young minds can become disoriented. A child cannot feel secure and at ease when attention is diverted elsewhere. Establishing connections is crucial for fostering confidence, encouraging exploration, and trying new things. 

If young Molly Wright can eloquently articulate the significance of connection, why do so many parents overlook these vital steps? The rapid pace of work and increasing demands on parents lead to overwhelming situations where the focus shifts from the child to various distractions and responsibilities. Placing a child in front of a device may seem like a safe and quick fix for parents looking for a moment of relaxation. Technology offers benefits and can serve as an educational tool, but, there must be a balance between the two, as technical devices can never solely replace the profound connection essential for a child's healthy brain development.

FQ: Now on to Buckley's Family Fishing Trip! This was such a fun book to read/review. First, I have to ask - is Buckley a real dog? If so, is he one of your dogs? Would you tell us a little about him?

HINES: I appreciate your kind words and I'm thrilled that you enjoyed the exciting story of Buckley’s Family fishing Trip. Buckley is not just a fictional character; he is a cherished member of our family. As the inspiration behind the Buckley children's book series, his full name is Sir Winston Buckley Hines, affectionately known as "Buckley." This 4-year-old Standard Schnauzer hails from a prestigious lineage of AKC show dogs. Buckley adores interacting with people but can get easily distracted. His remarkable intelligence shines through in his affectionate and childlike demeanor. Curious and playful, he craves attention and loves going for walks, always expecting the next adventure.

FQ: Buckley is a Busy Boy was your first book about Buckley. Would you tell our readers a little about Buckley's first adventure?

Author Susan H. Hines


HINES: After closely observing Buckley's daily routine, I noticed his consistent behaviors and his passion for adopting healthy habits, enjoying the outdoors, and cherishing family connections. He naturally took on the role of the household alarm clock, rising at 5 am to kickstart everyone's day. Following his morning rituals of breakfast and grooming, he enthusiastically heads out to the backyard for new adventures and squirrel chasing. Sometimes, he pauses to watch the trees sway in the wind or the birds soaring above, displaying a calm and adaptable demeanor. My aim in capturing his vibrant personality in this book is to share his experiences with young readers, inspiring them to seek adventure in their daily activities, embrace creativity and connections, and show structured routines for a joyful day of playful learning. This adventure book uses simple rhyming techniques and sight words to help develop basic vocabulary skills.

FQ: Why make fishing the focus of Buckley's second adventure? Is fishing a passion of yours? Is it an activity you share with family or friends?

HINES: I selected the Fishing Day tale to introduce fresh characters to the series. The story is inspired by a real fishing trip at the lake. My family loves fishing, and I join them to see and unwind. The serenity of nature outdoors is truly calming. Watching my husband and grandson fish fills me with happiness, especially when they feel a fish bite. We laugh when the fish and turtles slyly steal the worms from the line, and they only reel in a twig. However, the excitement is palpable when they do manage to hook a fish. These moments never fail to thrill everyone, including Buckley. However, it's common for them to catch and then release the fish.

FQ: As I mentioned in my review, while the focus of the story is fishing, you impart lessons in problem-solving (how to find the worms) as well as sharing time with family and friends. These are life lessons that are so important for children to learn. How do you decide what lessons to include in your stories? Do you decide before writing the story what to focus on or do these things come to you as you write?

HINES: When brainstorming story ideas, I find inspiration in life events. Observing and experiencing these moments allows me to infuse my stories with emotions. As I put pen to paper, the words flow, creating a captivating narrative. Problem-solving becomes part of the adventure. I've discovered that life is simple, yet we tend to overcomplicate it by overthinking.

In Buckley’s Family Fishing Trip, I emphasize the importance of planning to achieve a common goal. The book focuses on spending quality time together outdoors while fishing. Through a checklist, the story illustrates how planning steps can lead to a successful fishing trip. By highlighting teamwork and cooperation, the book conveys the message that together, we can conduct more.

FQ: As an author, doing events and meeting "your public" is an important part of marketing your books. I see that you've done quite a few. What do you enjoy most about your school visits and other events? Do you have any fun stories about the children they meet and their reactions to Buckley? 

HINES: Engaging with students during Author and Career Day visits at schools brings me immense joy. Witnessing how children connect with the book, take part eagerly in Storytime, and try to guess the rhyming sentences is truly heartwarming. The Q&A sessions are special as they give an opportunity for the students to offer feedback on the book, share their likes, and suggest what they hope to see Buckley do next. Their anticipation for the next edition and inquiries about my return always bring a smile to my face, knowing the positive impact I am making on their lives. During my recent visit, the School Counselor shared feedback that students who previously showed little interest in reading or writing are now trying to construct sentences and create stories inspired by Buckley. This feedback deeply touched me. After our Storytime session, a student even inquired if I would come back next year and visit him in the next grade. Seeing children lining up with blank sheets of paper, eager for a personalized Buckley paw stamp and the author's autograph, is simply adorable.

FQ: I just discovered your Buckley merchandise! Sooo cute! I love T-shirts and the Buckley stuffie is the best! Have they proven popular with readers? I have to believe that kids would absolutely love having their own Buckley as they read his books.

HINES: Children adore having their own Buckley merchandise and reading with their Buckley Buddy, a plush toy that offers comfort and companionship. Additionally, they can collect Buckley patches by reading, which is a hit among the Girl and Boy Scouts. The appeal of Buckley merchandise extends beyond kids, as my books emphasize the value of family. I aimed to cater to everyone with the Buckley merchandise range, promoting shared experiences with family and friends. From Grandpa's coffee mug to Sister's water bottle tumblers, and unisex tees for both adults and kids, there's something for everyone. Even a frisbee is included for playing fetch with your dog if you have one.

FQ: What is next up for Buckley? Have you started working on his next adventure, and if so, would you share with us a little preview? And/or are you working on another book going in a different direction (another children's book series, or a different genre)? 

HINES: Yes, I am working on Buckley’s next adventure, I am gearing this book to the young middle grade students, as I hope for the Buckley books to grow with our readers. The next book will be Buckley’s backstory of how he came to be, the pressures he face from being a descent of prestigious show dogs and how a setback caused him to have to find his own way into the spotlight. How he overcomes challenges, makes friends, learns the importance of being his authentic self and he uncovers his superpowers, which helps him to develop leadership skills a path that leads him to own rewards. 

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

#Authorinterview with Robin Reams, author of Aboard Blackbeard's Queen


Today, Feathered Quill reviewer Kathy Stickles is talking with Robin Reams, author of Aboard Blackbeard’s Queen.
FQ: I must tell you that I absolutely adored this story. I loved the characters (animal and human) and the storyline. Where did the idea for the book come from?
REAMS: Thank you so much! I’m so glad you enjoyed Cooper’s adventure. The idea for Aboard Blackbeard’s Queen came to me after listening to feedback I received from readers of my second book, Unlocking Blackbeard’s Skeletons. Back in 2018, there was a huge amount of information released on Blackbeard in preparation of the 300th anniversary of his death at Ocracoke, North Carolina. Much of what I was reading was different than what I previously knew about Blackbeard, and the conflicting accounts of what really happened intrigued me. After digging deeper and doing my own research, I decided to write Unlocking Blackbeard’s Skeletons. As readers started giving me feedback, they kept asking me about Blackbeard’s famed ship, Queen Anne’s Revenge, which sank in June 1718. That’s when I decided to start outlining Aboard Blackbeard’s Queen.
FQ: It was wonderful to see this story as well as the history of this period of time shown to readers through the eyes of a cat. What made you choose to make him the main character rather than one of the humans?
REAMS: I wanted to show a different perspective of Blackbeard than my other book, which is through human point of view. During my research, I discovered that all ships in colonial times had cats onboard. I decided to use a cat as the main character to show this important part of history. Cooper also allowed me to show another side of Blackbeard. By telling the story through a cat’s eyes, I was able to draw in children as well, introducing them to the pirate era and to history in general.
FQ: Blackbeard is certainly one of the most legendary pirates that you could have used for the story. Was the research that had to be done before writing the book extensive and difficult? Also, I know that the locations, etc. are real for the most part, so I have to ask, is Cooper real or was he your own creation to wrap the story around? Perhaps he was based on your own cat?
REAMS: Yes, I did quite a bit of research. Although my book is historical fiction, I wanted it to be as real as possible and to only use fiction when there was a gap in the timeline. I read books on all sorts of things, not just pirates. I obtained most of this information as I was preparing to write Unlocking Blackbeard’s Skeletons, so when I was writing Aboard Blackbeard’s Queen, I was able to reuse a lot of my knowledge. As for Cooper, I have had several cats over the years, but never an orange one. Research proves that pirate ships had cats, but there are no records of what color Blackbeard’s would have been. I did discover a legend about sailors and pirates in particular believing that only black cats were lucky, so I felt an orange cat would add some excitement to the story.
FQ: The research, as I said, was excellent...is Blackbeard a particular favorite of yours or just pirates in general? I’m wondering what made you choose him as opposed to some other pirate for this story.
REAMS: The colonial era is a favorite of mine, although I enjoy many other aspects of history. Part of what fascinates me about pirates is why they became pirates in the first place. My interest in Blackbeard originated years ago as a child. Blackbeard is a legend of course, but particularly on the Outer Banks of North Carolina where I have spent so many summers. I knew that he wrecked his ship, Queen Anne’s Revenge at the inlet near Beaufort, North Carolina, and that he was captured and killed at Ocracoke. When I discovered that he also grew up as a teenager at North Carolina’s first town of Bath, I knew his story was something I wanted to share in an action-packed way where people could enjoy the book but also learn.
FQ: Can you tell your readers if there is another adventure in store for Cooper and Como, and the others, given the way this story ended? I would really like to know and hope the answer will be yes.
REAMS: Maybe. I really enjoyed writing Cooper’s adventure, so when it came to the point where I had to tie up the story lines, I decided to leave things so Cooper could at least live on in the minds of readers.
FQ: Can you give us an idea of what is coming next for Robin Reams? Are you working on something new and, if so, what is that going to be about?
REAMS: I currently have several projects that I am working on, some of which are not historical. Readers have shared their desires for me to write sequels to all three of my books. I also have some ideas of other historical fiction subjects. Every author has to make sure whatever project they are considering to work on is something they are going to put their heart into.
FQ: Do you always use animals in your books as main characters rather than humans? I found it a delightful perspective and am wondering if that is more enjoyable for you as a writer to show your stories through the eyes of an animal.
REAMS: My first book, Shadow of the Mountain, was written from the point of view of a feral cat named Shadow who joins his other cat friends on a journey to the mountains. Unlocking Blackbeard’s Skeletons was completely human perspective. For Aboard Blackbeard’s Queen, I wanted to utilize the aspect of a ship’s cat to give my readers a different angle of Blackbeard since Cooper could hear things that Blackbeard may have said privately. In a way, writing Aboard Blackbeard’s Queen was similar to Shadow of the Mountain as far as the animal instincts, but Cooper had interaction with the pirates, an element that Shadow didn’t experience. This was a new challenge for me since I had to make sure to limit Cooper’s actions as he interacted with human objects and even other animals. Readers of all ages can relate to animals and seem to enjoy looking at the world from a new perspective.
FQ: I saw from the biography on the back of the book that you really enjoy visiting historical sites. That is something that we definitely have in common. What has been your favorite experience so far in terms of the historical places that you have seen?
REAMS: Over the years, I have visited thousands of historic sites. When I was growing up, my family would go to living history days which ignited my imagination. Even now, I immerse myself in whatever era of history is being presented as I imagine what it would have been like to live during that time and place. As an author, I visit and revisit historic places differently. I always look for unique points of view and study the small things such as tools or how things were accomplished so I can be a better writer when I’m explaining things. It’s hard to say what my favorite experience would be, because there are so many, but I suppose the best experiences have been local historic places that don’t have a museum. I have spent many hours learning about my own family’s past as well. That’s probably why Blackbeard’s story spoke to me. It’s easy for me to get lost in the world of pirates when I walk the same streets of Bath, NC where Blackbeard lived, or when I stand on the shore at Ocracoke, where Blackbeard took his last breath.
FQ: When Robin Reams decides to read for fun rather than for research, what types of books/authors are your personal favorites?
REAMS: I am always on the lookout for books that inspire my curiosity. As a book lover and collector, I have quite a few interests including local stories, Bible studies, mysteries, and classics. Some of my favorite authors are Beverly Lewis and Audrey Penn, both of whom I have had the joy of meeting, and others such as C.S. Lewis, Mark Twain, Karen Kingsbury, John Grisham, and J.K. Rowling.
FQ: One thing I always like to ask authors is what advice would you give to others who are hoping to break into the writing field?
REAMS: Like Cooper learns in my book, you must work hard to overcome obstacles. Don’t give up on your dream. Being a writer isn’t easy and the work doesn’t stop once your book gets published. As Dr. Seuss said, “You’ll never be bored when you try something new. There’s really no limit to what you can do!”