Tony Flood - 17 March 2025
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Tony Flood (right)
with Heather Flood and Ben Miller
http://www.celebritiesconfessions.com/
http://www.fantasyadventurebooks.com
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This week it is my pleasure to interview Tony Flood. Would you please introduce yourself to my readers, Tony and share something about your life.
Hi. My name is Tony Flood and I am a former journalist and Sky Television executive. I now write articles and theatre reviews for online magazine Unknown Kent and Sussex, which are shared with other sites, and I am chairman of Anderida Writers of Eastbourne.
When did you write your first book and how did it come about?
After I moved to Eastbourne and retired from full time work, I used my free time to become an author. My first book, written in 2009, was a fantasy adventure called Secret Potion, based on an idea by my wife and fellow author Heather Flood about a fearless young girl called Jody Richards going to a magical land in search of her kidnapped brother. I have since brought out a second edition which is available on Amazon.
Do you always write in the same genre or do you mix it up?
I write in several genres – crime thrillers, amusing short stories, celebrity revelations and fantasy adventure.
When you write, do you start with an idea and sit down and let it evolve, or do you make notes and plot the chapters beforehand?
I start writing a book when I have a good idea for a story line. I then develop interesting characters and let things evolve from there.
Would you like to give us a short excerpt from one of your books?
Yes, I'll include an excerpt from my crime thriller Fall Guy at the end of this interview.
Who is your favourite character and why?
My favourite character is compassionate copper DCI Harvey Livermore who is featured in all my crime thrillers and has been praised by best-selling author Peter James. Harvey has to cope with a difficult wife and demanding boss but still manages to solve some baffling murders.
Which of your books gave you the most pleasure to write? Probably my celebrity book My Life With The Stars (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1089391161) featuring amusing anecdotes and revelations about showbiz and sports stars I have interviewed or written about. These include Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Tom Jones, Kylie Minogue, Eric Morecambe, Des O'Connor, George Best and Muhammad Ali.
What is the best marketing tip you have received?
Post an interesting fact, or piece of advice, and find a way to link this to your book. Then share this post with as many sites as possible.
How would you describe yourself?
I am a fun-loving, creative and reliable person who fully researches and checks facts about what I write.
What do you do when you are not writing or reading?
I play veterans football. I am the oldest - and slowest - member of the team!
If you could holiday anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?
I would return to Las Vegas where I enjoyed so much fun and luxury in fabulous hotels and theatres.
If you have owned pets, do you have a funny story you would like to share with us?
Our cat Pixie often 'hides' in the most unlikely places to avoid visitors, so my wife Heather and I spend ages looking for her after the visitors have left.
What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read?
The synopsis, endorsements and reviews.
Do you have your own website?
I have a blog on WordPress 777TonyFlood as well as two websites at http://www.celebritiesconfessions.com/ and http://www.fantasyadventurebooks.com/
Do you have any events or book promotions coming up that you would like to tell us about?
My books are currently on special low prices as both e-versions and paperbacks on Amazon.co.uk So it's worth checking them out by entering Tony Flood in the Amazon search box.
FIRST CHAPTER OF FALL GUY Wednesday October 6th, 2021 George Thornhill interrupted a business meeting with a client to accept a phone call from his gorgeous wife Isabella on her 32nd birthday. She simply said: “I'm wearing the black kimono you gave me this morning - and nothing else!” “Nothing? What if someone comes round?” “You'd better get home before they do, darling,” she teased, and then rang off. George, the owner of a construction company in Lewes, apologised to the client, and agreed a much more generous deal than he had intended so he could wrap things up early. He rushed to his Nissan Qashqai to avoid getting drenched by the rain, and, before driving off, checked that the clock on the dashboard corresponded with his watch. He smiled at seeing they both showed 2.07 pm – five minutes fast, as he always set them, to help him overcome his tendency of being late. 'Blimey! I'm actually ahead of schedule for once, and I'll miss the late afternoon traffic in Eastbourne- Isabella will be surprised. There'll be time for some birthday nooky before we go out to dinner this evening.' George's thoughts focused on his wife's hourglass figure which had made her so successful as a fashion model. The sharp blast of a car horn ended his daydream abruptly. He suddenly realised his Nissan was drifting dangerously towards the opposite traffic lane and quickly adjusted the steering wheel. The car skidded on the wet surface, but corrected itself when he turned into the skid.George chastised himself for his lapse into a flight of fantasy almost causing an accident. 'It could be due to the Sumatriptan I've started taking for my migraines,' he thought. 'They might be causing me to feel dizzy and my mind to wander. I'd better check with the doctor.' He sped past a 30mph sign before he regained his concentration. 'Damn, I'm doing almost 40. I should have taken the alternative route, then I wouldn't be risking getting caught again by this bloody speed trap.' He slowed to 25mph, determined not to incur another motoring fine to add to the one he had received a few months back. Even so, George had time to stop off to buy a large bouquet of flowers and still park in the drive of his stylish, semi-detached bungalow in Langney at three o'clock - 3.05 pm by his watch! He looked in the car mirror to check his mass of brown hair was as well groomed as possible. 'Not bad', he thought, stroking his chin where the only blemish was a small scar caused by a fall many years ago. George picked up the flowers from the passenger seat, opened the nearside door and slid out. After nodding to an elderly neighbour who was hurrying to avoid the rain by getting into his old Honda, George opened his front door, calling out “Hello, darling.” Startled by a sound of groaning from the lounge, he dropped the flowers and hurried into the room to be met with the terrible sight of Isabella lying on the floor with a knife in her chest. Blood was gushing from a large wound, soaking her black satin kimono and the carpet. “Isabella!” he yelled. “Oh, my God, what's happened?” George rushed to his wife's side and heard her gasp something inaudible. His first instinct was to pull out the knife, but was aware that it could make such injuries even worse. He tried pressing down on either side of the wound and pushing the opening together. His efforts were in vain and blood continued to flow. 'What else can I do?' he thought. 'It might help to take the damn thing out.' He grabbed the handle, removed the kitchen knife from the wound and threw it on the floor. But blood spattered on his coat before he finally sealed the large gash.Isabella's eyes, pale blue like his own, slowly closed and she stopped breathing. George gave mouth-to-mouth resuscitation without getting any response. He felt his wife's wrist for a pulse – there was none. In desperation he shook the motionless body, causing flecks of blood to spread to her long blonde hair and his own, before accepting she could not be brought back to life. “No, no, no,” the distraught husband cried out, sobbing uncontrollably and holding her close to him. George sat in a trance for several minutes. Finally grasping what needed to be done, he walked across the lounge to pick up the telephone and dial 999. But the phone suddenly started ringing. 'Hello,” he muttered into the mouthpiece. “Is that you, George?” It was his mother-in-law. “Isabella's been stabbed.” What?” she cried. “What on earth do you mean?” “Just phone the police!” he yelled back. “George, have you had another row? Isabella told me you argued this morning. Have you stabbed her?” “Please stop asking me questions, Ruth. She's dead.” “No. That can't be true. Did you do it?” “Ruth, phone the bloody police, will you!” He slammed down the phone. In the 14 minutes before the police arrived he protected his dead wife's 'modesty' by pulling together the kimono he had given her as a birthday present that morning so that her breasts were no longer exposed.
+++++George, whose blue suit and hands were still covered in blood, told the lead officer DI Jeff Nottage how he'd tried desperately to save his wife without success. But he found it hard to concentrate on what the policeman was saying in response and began to suffer a migraine which caused him to feel sick and dizzy. “When your mother-in-law phoned us she seemed to think you had rowed with your wife and stabbed her.” “No,” protested George. “I came in to find her lying on the floor after being attacked.” His grief, coupled with the effects of the Sumatriptan he took, was causing a feeling of nausea to sweep over him. 'I'd better breathe in and out slowly or I'm going to throw up,' George thought. If he needed a distraction it was provided by the Scene of Crime Officers, dressed in protective clothing, scrutinizing everything in sight. The whole thing seemed a blur, including being driven to Eastbourne Custody Suite where his blood-covered suit and other clothing were taken for examination. The nausea was replaced by numbness as he sat in a sweatshirt, jogging bottoms and plimsolls provided by the police, but he tried to collect his thoughts upon being further questioned by Nottage and another officer. George became aware that their tone had changed from that when he first encountered them. “Did your wife have any enemies?” Nottage asked. “On the contrary, as a glamorous fashion model she had a lot of fans.”The policeman took the opportunity to develop this line of inquiry. “Presumably, most of them were male admirers. Was that difficult for you?” “Yes, it could be annoying, especially as some of these blokes were quite blatant about what she looked like in underwear. We had a few words this morning about amorous birthday messages she received on Facebook. I told her she should delete them, but she just laughed it off.” “So you argued?” “You could say that. The non-stop attention she received was a real pain. It brought extra stress and I began taking Sumatriptan tablets for migraines. But we loved each other and Isabella phoned me to suggest I came home early from work today to have sex.” The feeling of sickness returned, causing George to add: “I'm not feeling up to answering any more questions at the moment. Is it alright if I go now? He was shocked when Nottage replied: “You don't seem to realise the full implications of what I told you earlier, sir.” “My wife's death has been devastating. I wasn't fully focused on what you were saying. Remind me.” Nottage spelt it out. “I referred to you being covered in blood and, by your own admission, you held the knife that killed your wife. We've found no trace of anyone else having been present – no footprints, nothing. And when your mother-in-law asked on the phone if you'd done the stabbing you didn't deny it. “So I am arresting you on suspicion of murder. You do not have to say anything unless you wish to do so, but it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence.” READERS QUALIFY FOR A FREE BOOK As a 'thank you' for buying his crime thriller FALL GUY, author Tony Flood is offering readers one of his other booksFREE. To obtain a complimentary e-version readers can choose one of the books listed in Fall Guy and email their choice to Tony at tflood04@yahoo.co.uk He will email readers back with the free e-version as an attachment. Fall Guy, which has been endorsed by best-selling author Peter James, is available on Amazon.co.uk for £5.70 as a paperback (and £1.77 as an e-version). Tony Flood will make donations from paperback sales to Children with Cancer UK. https://mybook.to/fallguykindle
Which of your books gave you the most pleasure to write? Probably my celebrity book My Life With The Stars (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1089391161) featuring amusing anecdotes and revelations about showbiz and sports stars I have interviewed or written about. These include Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Tom Jones, Kylie Minogue, Eric Morecambe, Des O'Connor, George Best and Muhammad Ali.
What is the best marketing tip you have received?
Post an interesting fact, or piece of advice, and find a way to link this to your book. Then share this post with as many sites as possible.
How would you describe yourself?
I am a fun-loving, creative and reliable person who fully researches and checks facts about what I write.
What do you do when you are not writing or reading?
I play veterans football. I am the oldest - and slowest - member of the team!
If you could holiday anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?
I would return to Las Vegas where I enjoyed so much fun and luxury in fabulous hotels and theatres.
If you have owned pets, do you have a funny story you would like to share with us?
Our cat Pixie often 'hides' in the most unlikely places to avoid visitors, so my wife Heather and I spend ages looking for her after the visitors have left.
What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read?
The synopsis, endorsements and reviews.
Do you have your own website?
I have a blog on WordPress 777TonyFlood as well as two websites at http://www.celebritiesconfessions.com/ and http://www.fantasyadventurebooks.com/
Do you have any events or book promotions coming up that you would like to tell us about?
My books are currently on special low prices as both e-versions and paperbacks on Amazon.co.uk So it's worth checking them out by entering Tony Flood in the Amazon search box.
FIRST CHAPTER OF FALL GUY Wednesday October 6th, 2021 George Thornhill interrupted a business meeting with a client to accept a phone call from his gorgeous wife Isabella on her 32nd birthday. She simply said: “I'm wearing the black kimono you gave me this morning - and nothing else!” “Nothing? What if someone comes round?” “You'd better get home before they do, darling,” she teased, and then rang off. George, the owner of a construction company in Lewes, apologised to the client, and agreed a much more generous deal than he had intended so he could wrap things up early. He rushed to his Nissan Qashqai to avoid getting drenched by the rain, and, before driving off, checked that the clock on the dashboard corresponded with his watch. He smiled at seeing they both showed 2.07 pm – five minutes fast, as he always set them, to help him overcome his tendency of being late. 'Blimey! I'm actually ahead of schedule for once, and I'll miss the late afternoon traffic in Eastbourne- Isabella will be surprised. There'll be time for some birthday nooky before we go out to dinner this evening.' George's thoughts focused on his wife's hourglass figure which had made her so successful as a fashion model. The sharp blast of a car horn ended his daydream abruptly. He suddenly realised his Nissan was drifting dangerously towards the opposite traffic lane and quickly adjusted the steering wheel. The car skidded on the wet surface, but corrected itself when he turned into the skid.George chastised himself for his lapse into a flight of fantasy almost causing an accident. 'It could be due to the Sumatriptan I've started taking for my migraines,' he thought. 'They might be causing me to feel dizzy and my mind to wander. I'd better check with the doctor.' He sped past a 30mph sign before he regained his concentration. 'Damn, I'm doing almost 40. I should have taken the alternative route, then I wouldn't be risking getting caught again by this bloody speed trap.' He slowed to 25mph, determined not to incur another motoring fine to add to the one he had received a few months back. Even so, George had time to stop off to buy a large bouquet of flowers and still park in the drive of his stylish, semi-detached bungalow in Langney at three o'clock - 3.05 pm by his watch! He looked in the car mirror to check his mass of brown hair was as well groomed as possible. 'Not bad', he thought, stroking his chin where the only blemish was a small scar caused by a fall many years ago. George picked up the flowers from the passenger seat, opened the nearside door and slid out. After nodding to an elderly neighbour who was hurrying to avoid the rain by getting into his old Honda, George opened his front door, calling out “Hello, darling.” Startled by a sound of groaning from the lounge, he dropped the flowers and hurried into the room to be met with the terrible sight of Isabella lying on the floor with a knife in her chest. Blood was gushing from a large wound, soaking her black satin kimono and the carpet. “Isabella!” he yelled. “Oh, my God, what's happened?” George rushed to his wife's side and heard her gasp something inaudible. His first instinct was to pull out the knife, but was aware that it could make such injuries even worse. He tried pressing down on either side of the wound and pushing the opening together. His efforts were in vain and blood continued to flow. 'What else can I do?' he thought. 'It might help to take the damn thing out.' He grabbed the handle, removed the kitchen knife from the wound and threw it on the floor. But blood spattered on his coat before he finally sealed the large gash.Isabella's eyes, pale blue like his own, slowly closed and she stopped breathing. George gave mouth-to-mouth resuscitation without getting any response. He felt his wife's wrist for a pulse – there was none. In desperation he shook the motionless body, causing flecks of blood to spread to her long blonde hair and his own, before accepting she could not be brought back to life. “No, no, no,” the distraught husband cried out, sobbing uncontrollably and holding her close to him. George sat in a trance for several minutes. Finally grasping what needed to be done, he walked across the lounge to pick up the telephone and dial 999. But the phone suddenly started ringing. 'Hello,” he muttered into the mouthpiece. “Is that you, George?” It was his mother-in-law. “Isabella's been stabbed.” What?” she cried. “What on earth do you mean?” “Just phone the police!” he yelled back. “George, have you had another row? Isabella told me you argued this morning. Have you stabbed her?” “Please stop asking me questions, Ruth. She's dead.” “No. That can't be true. Did you do it?” “Ruth, phone the bloody police, will you!” He slammed down the phone. In the 14 minutes before the police arrived he protected his dead wife's 'modesty' by pulling together the kimono he had given her as a birthday present that morning so that her breasts were no longer exposed.
+++++George, whose blue suit and hands were still covered in blood, told the lead officer DI Jeff Nottage how he'd tried desperately to save his wife without success. But he found it hard to concentrate on what the policeman was saying in response and began to suffer a migraine which caused him to feel sick and dizzy. “When your mother-in-law phoned us she seemed to think you had rowed with your wife and stabbed her.” “No,” protested George. “I came in to find her lying on the floor after being attacked.” His grief, coupled with the effects of the Sumatriptan he took, was causing a feeling of nausea to sweep over him. 'I'd better breathe in and out slowly or I'm going to throw up,' George thought. If he needed a distraction it was provided by the Scene of Crime Officers, dressed in protective clothing, scrutinizing everything in sight. The whole thing seemed a blur, including being driven to Eastbourne Custody Suite where his blood-covered suit and other clothing were taken for examination. The nausea was replaced by numbness as he sat in a sweatshirt, jogging bottoms and plimsolls provided by the police, but he tried to collect his thoughts upon being further questioned by Nottage and another officer. George became aware that their tone had changed from that when he first encountered them. “Did your wife have any enemies?” Nottage asked. “On the contrary, as a glamorous fashion model she had a lot of fans.”The policeman took the opportunity to develop this line of inquiry. “Presumably, most of them were male admirers. Was that difficult for you?” “Yes, it could be annoying, especially as some of these blokes were quite blatant about what she looked like in underwear. We had a few words this morning about amorous birthday messages she received on Facebook. I told her she should delete them, but she just laughed it off.” “So you argued?” “You could say that. The non-stop attention she received was a real pain. It brought extra stress and I began taking Sumatriptan tablets for migraines. But we loved each other and Isabella phoned me to suggest I came home early from work today to have sex.” The feeling of sickness returned, causing George to add: “I'm not feeling up to answering any more questions at the moment. Is it alright if I go now? He was shocked when Nottage replied: “You don't seem to realise the full implications of what I told you earlier, sir.” “My wife's death has been devastating. I wasn't fully focused on what you were saying. Remind me.” Nottage spelt it out. “I referred to you being covered in blood and, by your own admission, you held the knife that killed your wife. We've found no trace of anyone else having been present – no footprints, nothing. And when your mother-in-law asked on the phone if you'd done the stabbing you didn't deny it. “So I am arresting you on suspicion of murder. You do not have to say anything unless you wish to do so, but it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence.” READERS QUALIFY FOR A FREE BOOK As a 'thank you' for buying his crime thriller FALL GUY, author Tony Flood is offering readers one of his other booksFREE. To obtain a complimentary e-version readers can choose one of the books listed in Fall Guy and email their choice to Tony at tflood04@yahoo.co.uk He will email readers back with the free e-version as an attachment. Fall Guy, which has been endorsed by best-selling author Peter James, is available on Amazon.co.uk for £5.70 as a paperback (and £1.77 as an e-version). Tony Flood will make donations from paperback sales to Children with Cancer UK. https://mybook.to/fallguykindle
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This week it is my pleasure to interview Alexander Morpheigh. Would you please introduce yourself to my readers, Alexander and share something about your life.
Thank you for taking the time to speak with me and for your interest in “The Pythagorean.” I'm a computer engineer, living at the intersection of the real and digital worlds. As I work in the world of automation and robotics, my work takes me travelling a lot across the globe, immersing myself in diverse cultures and introducing me to people from all walks of life. Over the years, these journeys have woven together a rich tapestry of stories, histories, and personal experiences that I believe would resonate with a wide audience. When did you write your first book and how did it come about? “The Pythagorean” is my debut book, which I wrote just a year ago. Many years ago, after reading Plato’s Dialogues, I became deeply fascinated by ancient Greek philosophy — not just as an abstract intellectual pursuit, but as a way of answering fundamental questions about our life. Unlike practical concerns such as making money or solving mathematical equations, philosophy, as the ancients saw it, was about constructing a life of harmony— both within oneself and with those around us. Plato emphasized that true philosophy is rooted in relationships: the relationship between one person and another, and the relationship between an individual and their own existence. This idea, I believe, is timeless. No matter the era, it remains profoundly relevant. And Pythagoras is the founder of philosophy and the one who coined the term 'Philosophy.' He used to say that true wisdom belongs only to the God, and that humans can only aspire to be lovers of wisdom. And 'Love of Wisdom' in Greek literally translates to ‘Philosophy’. Approximately six or seven years ago, I initiated and sponsored the production of a documentary film to explore contemporary Pythagoreans. During these expeditions, we encountered members of various modern Pythagorean societies, most of whom were esteemed scientists and university professors.
The conversations and insights they shared laid the groundwork for the scientific and philosophical content of the book. The concept of narrating ancient wisdom through a modern lens also emerged naturally from these encounters.
When you write, do you start with an idea and sit down and let it evolve, or do you make notes and plot the chapters beforehand?
My goal was to present readers with a collection of real historical insights about Pythagoras, his school, and his teachings. At the same time, I wanted to highlight intriguing contemporary alternative scientific perspectives —research that often lingers in the shadows of mainstream academia yet offers fascinating viewpoints. The greatest challenge was weaving all this information into an engaging, accessible narrative—one that balances depth with readability, blending historical facts with an enjoyable, dynamic style to ensure that readers wouldn’t feel overwhelmed by dry, academic material Before I began writing the book, I first had to construct its foundation—a storyline with a clear and logical progression from beginning to end. I needed to fully understand my protagonist and main characters—who they are, what defines them, and what drives their motivations. Once that framework was in place, I mapped out the key points and developed the central episodes of the story. Only then did I begin the actual writing process. Of course, writing is never entirely linear. Along the way, new ideas emerged, details evolved, and even after completing the manuscript, I found myself refining certain parts—adding elements, modifying passages—to ensure the story was as compelling and cohesive as possible. What is your favorite character and why?
My favorite character, without a doubt, is the Teacher — Pythagoras himself. Wise and patient, surpassing all others in knowledge and understanding, he remains indifferent to human selfishness, misconceptions, and flaws. Instead, he dedicates himself to teaching, guiding, and uplifting people around him. Pythagoras is the true forefather of intellectual, philosophical and scientific foundation of our European civilization, yet he remains undeservedly in the shadows of public awareness. We all recognize names like Plato, Aristotle, and Socrates, yet few remember that Plato only became a philosopher after reading three Pythagorean books—he was, in essence, a true Pythagorean.Socrates, for his part, never left Athens — except for two notable journeys in his entire life. One was to Samos, to visit the land where his teacher, Pythagoras, once lived. The other was to Delphi, where he met the Oracle Pythia. The teachings of Pythagoras do more than educate—they heal, guide, and elevate us, offering timeless wisdom that continues to shape our understanding of the world When I read the book, I see Pythagoras as the kind of person I strive to become. How would you describe yourself?
I am a philosopher-idealist, someone who dreams of making the world just a little bit better. What do you do when you are not writing or reading?
Although my free time is very limited due to my job, I try to make the most of it. I enjoy playing music, traveling, but above all, I cherish spending time with my loved ones. Eventually, we come to realize that those who love us seek our presence, not our wealth. So, we should devote our attention and love to them while we can. Time is our most precious resource, and we must use it wisely. If you could holiday anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why? I would do it in Greece. I have a deep affection for the country and its culture. There, I absorb their energy of kindness and light. I truly enjoy meeting local people there, engaging in conversations about life. The small Greek islands are among the few remaining places in the world where people haven’t been overly influenced by the modern world. What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read? Pythagoras used to say that when we choose our food, we do so with great care, selecting it to avoid spoiled or harmful nourishment. In the same way, we should be equally cautious when it comes to our mental food. I always strive to choose books with trustworthy content, avoiding those that are "rotten" in essence. I also prefer selecting books that can offer some kind of value or utility. It feels like a waste to spend time on a book that you will forget after reading, one that doesn’t contribute anything meaningful to your life. Do you have your own website?
Yes. It’s www.thepythagorean.org , but it’s under construction at the moment. It should be released sometime in March 2025. Are you working on a new book at the moment?
Yes, I’m working on the second part of “The Pythagorean”. This time, readers will meet Plato and Confucius, and engage with some of their teachings, in a light and fun story.
Thank you for taking the time to speak with me and for your interest in “The Pythagorean.” I'm a computer engineer, living at the intersection of the real and digital worlds. As I work in the world of automation and robotics, my work takes me travelling a lot across the globe, immersing myself in diverse cultures and introducing me to people from all walks of life. Over the years, these journeys have woven together a rich tapestry of stories, histories, and personal experiences that I believe would resonate with a wide audience. When did you write your first book and how did it come about? “The Pythagorean” is my debut book, which I wrote just a year ago. Many years ago, after reading Plato’s Dialogues, I became deeply fascinated by ancient Greek philosophy — not just as an abstract intellectual pursuit, but as a way of answering fundamental questions about our life. Unlike practical concerns such as making money or solving mathematical equations, philosophy, as the ancients saw it, was about constructing a life of harmony— both within oneself and with those around us. Plato emphasized that true philosophy is rooted in relationships: the relationship between one person and another, and the relationship between an individual and their own existence. This idea, I believe, is timeless. No matter the era, it remains profoundly relevant. And Pythagoras is the founder of philosophy and the one who coined the term 'Philosophy.' He used to say that true wisdom belongs only to the God, and that humans can only aspire to be lovers of wisdom. And 'Love of Wisdom' in Greek literally translates to ‘Philosophy’. Approximately six or seven years ago, I initiated and sponsored the production of a documentary film to explore contemporary Pythagoreans. During these expeditions, we encountered members of various modern Pythagorean societies, most of whom were esteemed scientists and university professors.
The conversations and insights they shared laid the groundwork for the scientific and philosophical content of the book. The concept of narrating ancient wisdom through a modern lens also emerged naturally from these encounters.
When you write, do you start with an idea and sit down and let it evolve, or do you make notes and plot the chapters beforehand?
My goal was to present readers with a collection of real historical insights about Pythagoras, his school, and his teachings. At the same time, I wanted to highlight intriguing contemporary alternative scientific perspectives —research that often lingers in the shadows of mainstream academia yet offers fascinating viewpoints. The greatest challenge was weaving all this information into an engaging, accessible narrative—one that balances depth with readability, blending historical facts with an enjoyable, dynamic style to ensure that readers wouldn’t feel overwhelmed by dry, academic material Before I began writing the book, I first had to construct its foundation—a storyline with a clear and logical progression from beginning to end. I needed to fully understand my protagonist and main characters—who they are, what defines them, and what drives their motivations. Once that framework was in place, I mapped out the key points and developed the central episodes of the story. Only then did I begin the actual writing process. Of course, writing is never entirely linear. Along the way, new ideas emerged, details evolved, and even after completing the manuscript, I found myself refining certain parts—adding elements, modifying passages—to ensure the story was as compelling and cohesive as possible. What is your favorite character and why?
My favorite character, without a doubt, is the Teacher — Pythagoras himself. Wise and patient, surpassing all others in knowledge and understanding, he remains indifferent to human selfishness, misconceptions, and flaws. Instead, he dedicates himself to teaching, guiding, and uplifting people around him. Pythagoras is the true forefather of intellectual, philosophical and scientific foundation of our European civilization, yet he remains undeservedly in the shadows of public awareness. We all recognize names like Plato, Aristotle, and Socrates, yet few remember that Plato only became a philosopher after reading three Pythagorean books—he was, in essence, a true Pythagorean.Socrates, for his part, never left Athens — except for two notable journeys in his entire life. One was to Samos, to visit the land where his teacher, Pythagoras, once lived. The other was to Delphi, where he met the Oracle Pythia. The teachings of Pythagoras do more than educate—they heal, guide, and elevate us, offering timeless wisdom that continues to shape our understanding of the world When I read the book, I see Pythagoras as the kind of person I strive to become. How would you describe yourself?
I am a philosopher-idealist, someone who dreams of making the world just a little bit better. What do you do when you are not writing or reading?
Although my free time is very limited due to my job, I try to make the most of it. I enjoy playing music, traveling, but above all, I cherish spending time with my loved ones. Eventually, we come to realize that those who love us seek our presence, not our wealth. So, we should devote our attention and love to them while we can. Time is our most precious resource, and we must use it wisely. If you could holiday anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why? I would do it in Greece. I have a deep affection for the country and its culture. There, I absorb their energy of kindness and light. I truly enjoy meeting local people there, engaging in conversations about life. The small Greek islands are among the few remaining places in the world where people haven’t been overly influenced by the modern world. What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read? Pythagoras used to say that when we choose our food, we do so with great care, selecting it to avoid spoiled or harmful nourishment. In the same way, we should be equally cautious when it comes to our mental food. I always strive to choose books with trustworthy content, avoiding those that are "rotten" in essence. I also prefer selecting books that can offer some kind of value or utility. It feels like a waste to spend time on a book that you will forget after reading, one that doesn’t contribute anything meaningful to your life. Do you have your own website?
Yes. It’s www.thepythagorean.org , but it’s under construction at the moment. It should be released sometime in March 2025. Are you working on a new book at the moment?
Yes, I’m working on the second part of “The Pythagorean”. This time, readers will meet Plato and Confucius, and engage with some of their teachings, in a light and fun story.
Scott Ickes - 2 March 2025
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Scott Ickes and his wife, Linda
https://sites.google.com/view/scottickesbooks/home
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Coming soon!
This week it is my pleasure to interview Scott Ickes. Would you please introduce yourself to my readers, Scott and share something about your life.
I would be happy to do that. First, let me say that I appreciate you having me as a featured author on your site. I live with my wife in Vancouver, Washington, USA. I spent 39 years working for a fortune 500 company in the United States. At first, I worked in the manufacturing plants as a mechanic. I eventually worked my way up to a career in the field as a Service Engineer helping customers use our companies products. After retirement, I devoted my time to my wife, family and friends and some hobbies.
When did you write your first book and how did it come about?
I started writing my first book in February 2024. It came about after some rough times in my life. In September 2023, I was diagnosed with Leukemia. I was put on a life flight up to Seattle, Washington and spent 33 days there, going through my initial chemotherapy. After getting home, I had chemotherapy once a month until February 2024. I got home from the hospital on February 6, 2024 and received a phone call from one of my brothers telling me that one of my other brothers had been killed in a single car vehicle accident that morning. I was already depressed from all of the hospital visits and then he was killed. I had a compromised immune system and couldn’t travel back for the funeral. I was only able to watch television and read. I’ve always been an avid reader, however, when that becomes your whole life and you have so much happening in your life that is negative, you become frustrated and depressed. My wife said to me, “You’ve always thought you might be able to write a book. I think it’s time you tried to write that book.” I did what she suggested and started writing a series. The first book took me 10 months to write. The second book took me 5 weeks to write. I’m now writing book 3 in the series. The first two books are currently with Beta Readers. I anticipate finishing book three in about a month. I won’t publish any of them until all three in the series are ready. I’ll publish them all at the same time.
Do you always write in the same genre or do you mix it up?
I love to read science fiction. Especially, Space Opera, First Contact, Time Travel, etc. I’ve always been fascinated by the genre. I know it best, as I’ve probably read 3000 books or more in the science fiction genre. I may mix it up some day, but for right now, I have so many ideas about the Space Opera genre that it will take me quite a while to get them out of my system.
When you write, do you start with an idea and sit down and let it evolve, or do you make notes and plot the chapters beforehand?
I’m a pant’ser. I write by the seat of my pants. I have a basic outline in my head of where I want to go, but I don’t like making notes or plotting anything out, because when I’ve tried that, it seems to limit my creativity. When I write it off the cuff, I’m free to take the story in the direction that it wants to go.
Would you like to give us a short excerpt from one of your books?
I’d love to do that. This is from First Contact – Lemurians. The protagonist in my books is Captain Robert Chris of an exploration starship. He’s thrust into situations where he has to be a military captain, and he struggles with this role. He doesn’t see himself as a hero. In this scene, he has made first contact with an alien species. Humans had never met this species or even knew of their existence, yet the aliens are blaming humans for the atomic wars that nearly destroyed the Lemurian culture. He had ordered his ship to retreat and hide from them. He knows he could easily defeat them, but he refuses to kill them, over a misunderstanding.
Robert had finally gotten some sleep. He didn’t feel rested, though. He’d dreamt about the Lemurians' atomic war. Their cries of anguish as they cursed humans. In his nightmare of a dream, he watched from orbit as his ship dropped atomic weapons on their cities. He could see the mushroom clouds rising at all angles from his perspective. Those directly below him were a roiling, angry, reddish-black, boiling firestorm that seemed to be rising straight out of hell. Lightening was flashing all over the storm. It was like the storm had additional weapons flashing into existence, higher and higher, reaching for his ship. The storm of the mushroom cloud continued to grow in circumference as it continued to rise. It was as if the storm had a mind and vengeance of its own. He felt like the storm was trying to reach him, trying to consume him in its rage for what he'd done. In his mind's eye, he was guilty and deserved to perish in the hellish storm below. When Robert turned his view to the mushroom clouds at the edges of the horizon, the mushroom shape was distinct. They seemed to be reaching so far up that it was as if they were traveling to space. Those storms were daring him to bring his ship above them. He could hear them calling him. ‘Come to us, Captain, and face justice and the vengeance you deserve.’ In the dream, he felt compelled and ordered his crew to go to the horizon and hover over the beckoning storm. His crew tried to argue with him. They demanded to know why he wanted to kill them all. “Because we killed so many of them!” he replied. His crew was used to taking his orders, and in the dream, they stopped arguing and started moving the ship toward the mushroom clouds on the horizon. The closer the ship got to the storm, the angrier it seemed to get. He could feel the emotions from the billowing firestorm ahead. It was as if the life force of all of the Lemurians who had perished in their atomic wars was now contained in that angry, lightning-filled inferno. He began to plead and beg, “Please don’t kill us. We didn’t know. We’ve changed. We’re no longer a barbaric species. Please, please believe us.” It changed nothing. The conflagration ahead continued to beckon him closer, ‘You and all humans must die for your sins, Captain! Your destiny awaits. Our spirits await the satisfaction of our revenge.’ Robert knew he was dreaming, but it seemed so real. The ship was now so close to the mushroom cloud that it filled the viewscreen. The heat was becoming unbearable. ‘It’s so hot”, he thought to himself. He felt the beads of sweat coming down his forehead and getting in his eyes. Robert felt the salty stinging of each drop. He looked down, and there was a small puddle of sweat forming at his feet. The ship was about to enter the furor of the storm when a bright flash of lightning reached out and struck the ship, causing blindness and a jolt of electricity to go through his body...darkness…silence…the heat was gone. ‘I’m still soaked in sweat. Am I dead?’ he thought. It was then that he realized that he was waking up, and he and his sheet were soaked in sweat. It was as if the heat of the storms in his nightmare had drawn the sweat out of him. He knew he was innocent, and he knew humans were innocent. Yet, he couldn’t shake the feeling of guilt and shame, as if he and all of humanity were the cause of a genocide. The captain got out of bed and rushed to the shower. He was able to scrub the sweat from his body, but no matter how hard he tried, the guilt and shame remained, refusing to be cleansed from his soul.
Who is your favourite character and why?
I’m partial to Captain Robert Chris. He’s a flawed person, just like all of us are flawed. He’s humble and has a huge heart. He hates war, he hates fighting, yet he’s been forced by fate into that role and he is reluctant. Robert refuses to show his weaknesses to his crew. He only confides in his ship Doctor, John Swann and his VAIL, Ellie. Ellie is a Virtual Artificial Intelligent Lifeform. She’s a AI computer program that has achieved sentience and is considered just as alive as humans.
Which of your books gave you the most pleasure to write?
Well, I’ve only written two so far, but the first one will probably be the one that gives me the most satisfaction. It was difficult to write parts of it though. I’m dedicating the book to my brother, Timothy Lloyd Ickes. He’s my brother that died a little over a year ago. I wrote a scene early in the first chapter, where a Marine died, and I named that Marine Timothy Lloyd in my book. That was difficult to write. Later, I have another ship captain named Thomas Lloyd. Thomas Lloyd Ickes is another brother of mine and the twin of Tim. I had a long talk with Tom, because I had to have the captain of my ship tell Thomas Lloyd in the book about the death of his brother. I actually cried as I wrote that part of the book.
What is the best marketing tip you have received?
When publishing a series as an Indie Author, publish at least three books at once. If someone purchases your first book and likes it, they’ll purchase the next two books. Doing it that way is a near guarantee of a three book sale! If you have a gap between the first and second books, they might forget about you and not remember to go back and purchase your second or third book, since you’re a new author. I’ve been told that if you get them to purchase the first three, they’ll usually start following you and purchase everything you write, unless you let them down.
How would you describe yourself?
I’m a wanna be comedian. My problem is that I’m not as funny as I think I am. I’m also quite detail oriented, which can be a detriment when writing fiction. I get wrapped up in the details and get too wordy. When I read it back, I’m constantly changing it, until it doesn’t read like a lecture.
What do you do when you are not writing or reading?
Hopefully, soon I’ll be able to do some painting and some woodturning. My doctor hasn’t cleared me to resume those hobbies, due to my Leukemia. My landscape painting involves solvents and she doesn’t want me breathing the fumes. I’m still a little bit of a bleeding risk, so my woodworking tools are off limits, because a minor cut could lead to a hospital stay.
If you could holiday anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?
I’d love to take my wife to Singapore. I was there for work quite a few times and she would love it there.
If you have owned pets, do you have a funny story you would like to share with us?
I love dogs, but I’m so allergic to them that we can’t have one. I’m allergic to cats too, but surprisingly it’s not as bad as it is with dogs. Many people don’t realize how much personality cats have. Whenever our cat heads upstairs to her litter box, she comes racing downstairs and runs all around the house like a crazy cat. It’s hysterical.
What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read?
The characters and the plot have to be believable. I know that to some people seems like a weird thing to say, considering that I read a genre that to many readers would seem unbelievable. But fantasy can be written in a realistic way, even though the premise is so far out of our current capabilities as a species.
Do you have your own website?
I do. It’s https://sites.google.com/view/scottickesbooks/home
Are you working on a new book at the moment?
I’m working on book three in the series. It’s titled, “First Contact – Antillians”. Book one is “First Contact – Lemurians,” and book two is “First Contact – Elysians.” The human colony in my book is “Atlantis.” Atlantis, Lemuria, Elysia and Antillia are all mythical lost cities, or continents in Earth mythology. I plan to continue following that theme through about ten books.
Do you have any events or book promotions coming up that you would like to tell us about?
I don’t at this time. I’m still learning about the process. I do plan to visit my local libraries and bookstores and see if they have any interest in hosting me for book signings and discussions.
I would be happy to do that. First, let me say that I appreciate you having me as a featured author on your site. I live with my wife in Vancouver, Washington, USA. I spent 39 years working for a fortune 500 company in the United States. At first, I worked in the manufacturing plants as a mechanic. I eventually worked my way up to a career in the field as a Service Engineer helping customers use our companies products. After retirement, I devoted my time to my wife, family and friends and some hobbies.
When did you write your first book and how did it come about?
I started writing my first book in February 2024. It came about after some rough times in my life. In September 2023, I was diagnosed with Leukemia. I was put on a life flight up to Seattle, Washington and spent 33 days there, going through my initial chemotherapy. After getting home, I had chemotherapy once a month until February 2024. I got home from the hospital on February 6, 2024 and received a phone call from one of my brothers telling me that one of my other brothers had been killed in a single car vehicle accident that morning. I was already depressed from all of the hospital visits and then he was killed. I had a compromised immune system and couldn’t travel back for the funeral. I was only able to watch television and read. I’ve always been an avid reader, however, when that becomes your whole life and you have so much happening in your life that is negative, you become frustrated and depressed. My wife said to me, “You’ve always thought you might be able to write a book. I think it’s time you tried to write that book.” I did what she suggested and started writing a series. The first book took me 10 months to write. The second book took me 5 weeks to write. I’m now writing book 3 in the series. The first two books are currently with Beta Readers. I anticipate finishing book three in about a month. I won’t publish any of them until all three in the series are ready. I’ll publish them all at the same time.
Do you always write in the same genre or do you mix it up?
I love to read science fiction. Especially, Space Opera, First Contact, Time Travel, etc. I’ve always been fascinated by the genre. I know it best, as I’ve probably read 3000 books or more in the science fiction genre. I may mix it up some day, but for right now, I have so many ideas about the Space Opera genre that it will take me quite a while to get them out of my system.
When you write, do you start with an idea and sit down and let it evolve, or do you make notes and plot the chapters beforehand?
I’m a pant’ser. I write by the seat of my pants. I have a basic outline in my head of where I want to go, but I don’t like making notes or plotting anything out, because when I’ve tried that, it seems to limit my creativity. When I write it off the cuff, I’m free to take the story in the direction that it wants to go.
Would you like to give us a short excerpt from one of your books?
I’d love to do that. This is from First Contact – Lemurians. The protagonist in my books is Captain Robert Chris of an exploration starship. He’s thrust into situations where he has to be a military captain, and he struggles with this role. He doesn’t see himself as a hero. In this scene, he has made first contact with an alien species. Humans had never met this species or even knew of their existence, yet the aliens are blaming humans for the atomic wars that nearly destroyed the Lemurian culture. He had ordered his ship to retreat and hide from them. He knows he could easily defeat them, but he refuses to kill them, over a misunderstanding.
Robert had finally gotten some sleep. He didn’t feel rested, though. He’d dreamt about the Lemurians' atomic war. Their cries of anguish as they cursed humans. In his nightmare of a dream, he watched from orbit as his ship dropped atomic weapons on their cities. He could see the mushroom clouds rising at all angles from his perspective. Those directly below him were a roiling, angry, reddish-black, boiling firestorm that seemed to be rising straight out of hell. Lightening was flashing all over the storm. It was like the storm had additional weapons flashing into existence, higher and higher, reaching for his ship. The storm of the mushroom cloud continued to grow in circumference as it continued to rise. It was as if the storm had a mind and vengeance of its own. He felt like the storm was trying to reach him, trying to consume him in its rage for what he'd done. In his mind's eye, he was guilty and deserved to perish in the hellish storm below. When Robert turned his view to the mushroom clouds at the edges of the horizon, the mushroom shape was distinct. They seemed to be reaching so far up that it was as if they were traveling to space. Those storms were daring him to bring his ship above them. He could hear them calling him. ‘Come to us, Captain, and face justice and the vengeance you deserve.’ In the dream, he felt compelled and ordered his crew to go to the horizon and hover over the beckoning storm. His crew tried to argue with him. They demanded to know why he wanted to kill them all. “Because we killed so many of them!” he replied. His crew was used to taking his orders, and in the dream, they stopped arguing and started moving the ship toward the mushroom clouds on the horizon. The closer the ship got to the storm, the angrier it seemed to get. He could feel the emotions from the billowing firestorm ahead. It was as if the life force of all of the Lemurians who had perished in their atomic wars was now contained in that angry, lightning-filled inferno. He began to plead and beg, “Please don’t kill us. We didn’t know. We’ve changed. We’re no longer a barbaric species. Please, please believe us.” It changed nothing. The conflagration ahead continued to beckon him closer, ‘You and all humans must die for your sins, Captain! Your destiny awaits. Our spirits await the satisfaction of our revenge.’ Robert knew he was dreaming, but it seemed so real. The ship was now so close to the mushroom cloud that it filled the viewscreen. The heat was becoming unbearable. ‘It’s so hot”, he thought to himself. He felt the beads of sweat coming down his forehead and getting in his eyes. Robert felt the salty stinging of each drop. He looked down, and there was a small puddle of sweat forming at his feet. The ship was about to enter the furor of the storm when a bright flash of lightning reached out and struck the ship, causing blindness and a jolt of electricity to go through his body...darkness…silence…the heat was gone. ‘I’m still soaked in sweat. Am I dead?’ he thought. It was then that he realized that he was waking up, and he and his sheet were soaked in sweat. It was as if the heat of the storms in his nightmare had drawn the sweat out of him. He knew he was innocent, and he knew humans were innocent. Yet, he couldn’t shake the feeling of guilt and shame, as if he and all of humanity were the cause of a genocide. The captain got out of bed and rushed to the shower. He was able to scrub the sweat from his body, but no matter how hard he tried, the guilt and shame remained, refusing to be cleansed from his soul.
Who is your favourite character and why?
I’m partial to Captain Robert Chris. He’s a flawed person, just like all of us are flawed. He’s humble and has a huge heart. He hates war, he hates fighting, yet he’s been forced by fate into that role and he is reluctant. Robert refuses to show his weaknesses to his crew. He only confides in his ship Doctor, John Swann and his VAIL, Ellie. Ellie is a Virtual Artificial Intelligent Lifeform. She’s a AI computer program that has achieved sentience and is considered just as alive as humans.
Which of your books gave you the most pleasure to write?
Well, I’ve only written two so far, but the first one will probably be the one that gives me the most satisfaction. It was difficult to write parts of it though. I’m dedicating the book to my brother, Timothy Lloyd Ickes. He’s my brother that died a little over a year ago. I wrote a scene early in the first chapter, where a Marine died, and I named that Marine Timothy Lloyd in my book. That was difficult to write. Later, I have another ship captain named Thomas Lloyd. Thomas Lloyd Ickes is another brother of mine and the twin of Tim. I had a long talk with Tom, because I had to have the captain of my ship tell Thomas Lloyd in the book about the death of his brother. I actually cried as I wrote that part of the book.
What is the best marketing tip you have received?
When publishing a series as an Indie Author, publish at least three books at once. If someone purchases your first book and likes it, they’ll purchase the next two books. Doing it that way is a near guarantee of a three book sale! If you have a gap between the first and second books, they might forget about you and not remember to go back and purchase your second or third book, since you’re a new author. I’ve been told that if you get them to purchase the first three, they’ll usually start following you and purchase everything you write, unless you let them down.
How would you describe yourself?
I’m a wanna be comedian. My problem is that I’m not as funny as I think I am. I’m also quite detail oriented, which can be a detriment when writing fiction. I get wrapped up in the details and get too wordy. When I read it back, I’m constantly changing it, until it doesn’t read like a lecture.
What do you do when you are not writing or reading?
Hopefully, soon I’ll be able to do some painting and some woodturning. My doctor hasn’t cleared me to resume those hobbies, due to my Leukemia. My landscape painting involves solvents and she doesn’t want me breathing the fumes. I’m still a little bit of a bleeding risk, so my woodworking tools are off limits, because a minor cut could lead to a hospital stay.
If you could holiday anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?
I’d love to take my wife to Singapore. I was there for work quite a few times and she would love it there.
If you have owned pets, do you have a funny story you would like to share with us?
I love dogs, but I’m so allergic to them that we can’t have one. I’m allergic to cats too, but surprisingly it’s not as bad as it is with dogs. Many people don’t realize how much personality cats have. Whenever our cat heads upstairs to her litter box, she comes racing downstairs and runs all around the house like a crazy cat. It’s hysterical.
What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read?
The characters and the plot have to be believable. I know that to some people seems like a weird thing to say, considering that I read a genre that to many readers would seem unbelievable. But fantasy can be written in a realistic way, even though the premise is so far out of our current capabilities as a species.
Do you have your own website?
I do. It’s https://sites.google.com/view/scottickesbooks/home
Are you working on a new book at the moment?
I’m working on book three in the series. It’s titled, “First Contact – Antillians”. Book one is “First Contact – Lemurians,” and book two is “First Contact – Elysians.” The human colony in my book is “Atlantis.” Atlantis, Lemuria, Elysia and Antillia are all mythical lost cities, or continents in Earth mythology. I plan to continue following that theme through about ten books.
Do you have any events or book promotions coming up that you would like to tell us about?
I don’t at this time. I’m still learning about the process. I do plan to visit my local libraries and bookstores and see if they have any interest in hosting me for book signings and discussions.
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Raymond Parish - 23 February 2025
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Raymond Parish
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This week it is my pleasure to interview Raymond Parish. Would you please introduce yourself to my readers and share something about your life.
Rita,Thank you for the opportunity to share my work with readers and other writers. I am the author of three Hank Anderson Mystery novels in my pen name Raymond Parish. My latest in the series, The Last Step, was released in the fall of 2024. I am also the author of four nonfiction books and multiple articles in the fields of mental health and substance abuse recovery.
When did you write your first book and how did it come about?
My first Hank Anderson novel, Overnight Delivery, was released in 2020. I honed my writing chops in nonfiction, while the idea of a character whose compassion and insatiable curiosity draws him into complex, lethal human puzzles simmered in the background. The time came to put fingers to the keyboard and Hank Anderson, a psychotherapist with a moth-to-the-flame attraction to risk came to life.
Anderson, a psychotherapist with a moth-to-the-flame attraction to risk came to life.
When you write, do you start with an idea and sit down and let it evolve, or do you make notes and plot the chapters beforehand?
One of the rewards of writing a series is allowing Hank to lead me as he leaps into the unknown, gets stuck, fails, and learns. The series has also given me to chance to build Hank’s world, filling it with rich collaborators and adversaries. Early on, I decided he would move through each crisis within the context of his most valued relationships, a clear choice for a man in his line of work. With these factors as the foundation, an initial premise leads me the members of Hank’s inner circle, the uncommon villains that will engage him, and the uncommon crimes that will impact them all. The decisions made by Hank and other central characters push my writing forward at each stage of the story.
Would you like to give us a short excerpt from one of your books?
This excerpt features Hank, along with two members of his circle—Jerry, the husband of his mentor and business partner, and his father, J.R. Anderson. They have encountered one of the key players in the crimes committed in The Last Step:
Dad apologized to the barista for drinks not consumed and food not eaten and paid the full tab, with a healthy tip. We reversed course empty handed, as fast as Jerry’s lengthy stride could lead us. I let Jerry and Dad carry the conversation, speedwalking, smiling and nodding as their joy faded into white noise. Alert to our surroundings, my gut refused to cease and desist. Down the escalator, we were back to the street. “Come on.” Jerry wasn’t waiting on the pedestrian call button. “I’ll play crossing guard.” He strode into the street, tall and straight, palms out. Car and truck horns honked, but they stopped. We hurried into the parking garage and back onto the elevator. Years past, I would have led the charge, blasting through any sense of caution. Ask for help. The voice of my better self floated through the ether. Phone in hand, I tapped Phil’s number from my favorite’s list. The elevator doors parted to the musty second floor, across from the Jeep. And a man who stood strategically beneath a security camera, compact handgun aimed in our direction. The chatter of my companions shut down mid-sentence. The muzzle of the gun seemed to grow in size when he centered it on my chest. “Off the elevator,” he ordered. Marshall’s appearance was stunningly plain when compared to our first meeting, but even with volume control, his nasal tone was unmistakable. We moved in harmony, like robots. The doors clanked shut behind us. “Hang up.” He shifted his aim to my phone. I punched the red button. The garage was an echo chamber for an immediate call-back ringtone. My reflexes took over. “Don’t answer that.” Too late. "Hank.” Phil’s rumble cut through the treble of street noise. I felt sick. “Hang up,” Marshall hissed, the jovial gladhander gone, replaced by an entirely different animal. I tapped red again. “Take your phones out, set them on the ground, and slide them to me.” He waved his gun. “Hurry.” I dropped my phone and kicked it toward him as fast as my urge to throw it at his head would allow. Jerry did the same. “You too, Gramps.” Dad was a statue. I reached out and touched his arm. He jerked as if suddenly wakened, patted my hand and slid the phone from his jacket. He tossed it toward Marshall, the clatter of bouncing plastic drawing a grin from Marshall. He swept the phones close with his foot, raised his leg, and shattered each one in turn with the heel of his shoe. "Get in the Jeep,” he said. Dad hooked my arm to steady himself as we closed the distance to the madman.
Who is your favourite character and why?
I prefer to think in terms of my favorite relationship; a difficult choice in a series with repeating characters. A cornerstone of Hank’s world is his connection with Detective Phil Evans of the Des Moines Police Department. One inspiration for their collaboration and conflict was the autobiographies written by Bruce Springsteen and Clarence Clemons, the late, great sax player of the E Street Band, otherwise known as the Big Man. In my series, one man is small of stature, the other is an impressive physical presence. One is white, the other is black. Hank is impulsive and supercharged, with a genius for seeing and hearing what others miss. Phil is strategic and stoic. Thrown into an unlikely collaboration in the first book, Overnight Delivery, they have developed a friendship grounded in a shared, relentless devotion to those they care most about. Both carry wounds from the past that come to light through their unyielding pursuit of the truth.
Which of your books gave you the most pleasure to write?
The creation of my first mystery, Overnight Delivery, was a joyful experience. Would readers be drawn by the suspense and flow of the story? Would Hank’s humanity, talents, flaws, and humor come through in the narrative? Would the crimes and criminals give meaning to the mystery? Would I find an ending? The challenges and excitement of writing a book in a genre I have loved since childhood was a true pleasure, carrying me through all the starts and stops of a work of fiction. Since that time, the emotional charge as key characters re-enter the series, and new characters appear, has become another high point of my work.
What is the best marketing tip you have received?
Several tips come to mind: Have a plan. Persist over time. Strike a balance between marketing and continuing to write. Become comfortable with telling people you are an author…or tell them even if it makes you uncomfortable.
What do you do when you are not writing or reading?
These days, my work as a mental health professional is focused on teaching, as adjunct faculty at a local university, and presenting seminars on a range of topics. I am an avid fan of most musical styles. I grew up in a musical house, full of jazz, Broadway tunes, spiritual music, and eventually, rock n’ roll. I caught the bug and like to call myself a lifelong mediocre guitarist. One promise I made to myself as a young adult was to see the world. I have been fortunate, traveling the U.S. and visiting numerous other countries. Travel enriches me, expands my view of others, and improves my writing. When home, I love to bicycle and hike. My greatest joy as I age is the simple act of sharing a meal with my wife and three adult children, or sitting over breakfast with friends that have become what folks in my field call, chosen family.
What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read?
I typically alternate fiction and nonfiction. Not only do I write a series, I have been reading mystery series since my dad handed me a Hardy Boys book in grade school. In mysteries and historical fiction, I look for a passionate, but flawed main character that I can pull for. In nonfiction, I look for books that challenge me and take me to new places, in my professional or personal life. As a youth growing up in the Midwest, books of many genres were my way of traveling the world and learning about, as I like to say, people who are not me. Interesting settings and diverse people continue to be key to my book choices.
Are you working on a new book at the moment?
I am well into the fourth Hank book, Fool’s Highway, which will introduce another member of the Anderson clan, Hank’s uncle, a musician of questionable character. The premise of FH gives me the opportunity to build one of my lifelong personal interests into a story—the aforementioned rock n’ roll. I have been known to hold forth on rock music trivia until the eyes of my audience glosses over, a passion left over from my unrealized youthful dream of guitarist glory. Hank has yet to show me exactly where the story will lead, but he has revealed a brief return to one character from The Mighty Shall Fall, a fascinating crime, and a deepening of his connections with Attorney Jill Bennett, legal advocate turned love interest.
Do you have any events or book promotions coming up that you would like to tell us about?
I am most excited about a spring trip to The Lore Bookshop in Norman, OK for an author’s event. Book readings and signings are my favorite parts of book promotion. The chance to interact with readers, and in the case of a larger event, other authors, is a highlight. I am also strategizing ways to utilize a wonderful book review of The Last Step by Sara E. Johnson, the NYT’s Reader’s Pick author of the Alexa Glock Forensic Mysteries, who wrote: “The Last Step, the third Hank Anderson mystery by Raymond Parish, grabs the reader by the collar from the get-go…when the lights go out and the shots ring, the reader is left breathless. A must read for mystery lovers and psychology buffs.”
Thanks Rita! And, thanks to all who are interested in my series!
Rita,Thank you for the opportunity to share my work with readers and other writers. I am the author of three Hank Anderson Mystery novels in my pen name Raymond Parish. My latest in the series, The Last Step, was released in the fall of 2024. I am also the author of four nonfiction books and multiple articles in the fields of mental health and substance abuse recovery.
When did you write your first book and how did it come about?
My first Hank Anderson novel, Overnight Delivery, was released in 2020. I honed my writing chops in nonfiction, while the idea of a character whose compassion and insatiable curiosity draws him into complex, lethal human puzzles simmered in the background. The time came to put fingers to the keyboard and Hank Anderson, a psychotherapist with a moth-to-the-flame attraction to risk came to life.
Anderson, a psychotherapist with a moth-to-the-flame attraction to risk came to life.
When you write, do you start with an idea and sit down and let it evolve, or do you make notes and plot the chapters beforehand?
One of the rewards of writing a series is allowing Hank to lead me as he leaps into the unknown, gets stuck, fails, and learns. The series has also given me to chance to build Hank’s world, filling it with rich collaborators and adversaries. Early on, I decided he would move through each crisis within the context of his most valued relationships, a clear choice for a man in his line of work. With these factors as the foundation, an initial premise leads me the members of Hank’s inner circle, the uncommon villains that will engage him, and the uncommon crimes that will impact them all. The decisions made by Hank and other central characters push my writing forward at each stage of the story.
Would you like to give us a short excerpt from one of your books?
This excerpt features Hank, along with two members of his circle—Jerry, the husband of his mentor and business partner, and his father, J.R. Anderson. They have encountered one of the key players in the crimes committed in The Last Step:
Dad apologized to the barista for drinks not consumed and food not eaten and paid the full tab, with a healthy tip. We reversed course empty handed, as fast as Jerry’s lengthy stride could lead us. I let Jerry and Dad carry the conversation, speedwalking, smiling and nodding as their joy faded into white noise. Alert to our surroundings, my gut refused to cease and desist. Down the escalator, we were back to the street. “Come on.” Jerry wasn’t waiting on the pedestrian call button. “I’ll play crossing guard.” He strode into the street, tall and straight, palms out. Car and truck horns honked, but they stopped. We hurried into the parking garage and back onto the elevator. Years past, I would have led the charge, blasting through any sense of caution. Ask for help. The voice of my better self floated through the ether. Phone in hand, I tapped Phil’s number from my favorite’s list. The elevator doors parted to the musty second floor, across from the Jeep. And a man who stood strategically beneath a security camera, compact handgun aimed in our direction. The chatter of my companions shut down mid-sentence. The muzzle of the gun seemed to grow in size when he centered it on my chest. “Off the elevator,” he ordered. Marshall’s appearance was stunningly plain when compared to our first meeting, but even with volume control, his nasal tone was unmistakable. We moved in harmony, like robots. The doors clanked shut behind us. “Hang up.” He shifted his aim to my phone. I punched the red button. The garage was an echo chamber for an immediate call-back ringtone. My reflexes took over. “Don’t answer that.” Too late. "Hank.” Phil’s rumble cut through the treble of street noise. I felt sick. “Hang up,” Marshall hissed, the jovial gladhander gone, replaced by an entirely different animal. I tapped red again. “Take your phones out, set them on the ground, and slide them to me.” He waved his gun. “Hurry.” I dropped my phone and kicked it toward him as fast as my urge to throw it at his head would allow. Jerry did the same. “You too, Gramps.” Dad was a statue. I reached out and touched his arm. He jerked as if suddenly wakened, patted my hand and slid the phone from his jacket. He tossed it toward Marshall, the clatter of bouncing plastic drawing a grin from Marshall. He swept the phones close with his foot, raised his leg, and shattered each one in turn with the heel of his shoe. "Get in the Jeep,” he said. Dad hooked my arm to steady himself as we closed the distance to the madman.
Who is your favourite character and why?
I prefer to think in terms of my favorite relationship; a difficult choice in a series with repeating characters. A cornerstone of Hank’s world is his connection with Detective Phil Evans of the Des Moines Police Department. One inspiration for their collaboration and conflict was the autobiographies written by Bruce Springsteen and Clarence Clemons, the late, great sax player of the E Street Band, otherwise known as the Big Man. In my series, one man is small of stature, the other is an impressive physical presence. One is white, the other is black. Hank is impulsive and supercharged, with a genius for seeing and hearing what others miss. Phil is strategic and stoic. Thrown into an unlikely collaboration in the first book, Overnight Delivery, they have developed a friendship grounded in a shared, relentless devotion to those they care most about. Both carry wounds from the past that come to light through their unyielding pursuit of the truth.
Which of your books gave you the most pleasure to write?
The creation of my first mystery, Overnight Delivery, was a joyful experience. Would readers be drawn by the suspense and flow of the story? Would Hank’s humanity, talents, flaws, and humor come through in the narrative? Would the crimes and criminals give meaning to the mystery? Would I find an ending? The challenges and excitement of writing a book in a genre I have loved since childhood was a true pleasure, carrying me through all the starts and stops of a work of fiction. Since that time, the emotional charge as key characters re-enter the series, and new characters appear, has become another high point of my work.
What is the best marketing tip you have received?
Several tips come to mind: Have a plan. Persist over time. Strike a balance between marketing and continuing to write. Become comfortable with telling people you are an author…or tell them even if it makes you uncomfortable.
What do you do when you are not writing or reading?
These days, my work as a mental health professional is focused on teaching, as adjunct faculty at a local university, and presenting seminars on a range of topics. I am an avid fan of most musical styles. I grew up in a musical house, full of jazz, Broadway tunes, spiritual music, and eventually, rock n’ roll. I caught the bug and like to call myself a lifelong mediocre guitarist. One promise I made to myself as a young adult was to see the world. I have been fortunate, traveling the U.S. and visiting numerous other countries. Travel enriches me, expands my view of others, and improves my writing. When home, I love to bicycle and hike. My greatest joy as I age is the simple act of sharing a meal with my wife and three adult children, or sitting over breakfast with friends that have become what folks in my field call, chosen family.
What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read?
I typically alternate fiction and nonfiction. Not only do I write a series, I have been reading mystery series since my dad handed me a Hardy Boys book in grade school. In mysteries and historical fiction, I look for a passionate, but flawed main character that I can pull for. In nonfiction, I look for books that challenge me and take me to new places, in my professional or personal life. As a youth growing up in the Midwest, books of many genres were my way of traveling the world and learning about, as I like to say, people who are not me. Interesting settings and diverse people continue to be key to my book choices.
Are you working on a new book at the moment?
I am well into the fourth Hank book, Fool’s Highway, which will introduce another member of the Anderson clan, Hank’s uncle, a musician of questionable character. The premise of FH gives me the opportunity to build one of my lifelong personal interests into a story—the aforementioned rock n’ roll. I have been known to hold forth on rock music trivia until the eyes of my audience glosses over, a passion left over from my unrealized youthful dream of guitarist glory. Hank has yet to show me exactly where the story will lead, but he has revealed a brief return to one character from The Mighty Shall Fall, a fascinating crime, and a deepening of his connections with Attorney Jill Bennett, legal advocate turned love interest.
Do you have any events or book promotions coming up that you would like to tell us about?
I am most excited about a spring trip to The Lore Bookshop in Norman, OK for an author’s event. Book readings and signings are my favorite parts of book promotion. The chance to interact with readers, and in the case of a larger event, other authors, is a highlight. I am also strategizing ways to utilize a wonderful book review of The Last Step by Sara E. Johnson, the NYT’s Reader’s Pick author of the Alexa Glock Forensic Mysteries, who wrote: “The Last Step, the third Hank Anderson mystery by Raymond Parish, grabs the reader by the collar from the get-go…when the lights go out and the shots ring, the reader is left breathless. A must read for mystery lovers and psychology buffs.”
Thanks Rita! And, thanks to all who are interested in my series!
D. Thrush - 2 February 2025
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This week it is my pleasure to welcome back author D. Thrush, whom I last interviewed in 2018. D has returned to tell us what she has been doing since. Would you please reintroduce yourself to my readers, D and share something about your life.
Wow, times flies! I’m the author of Rom-Coms, Women’s/Literary Fiction and a spiritual adventure story. All my books are standalones (I hate cliffhangers!) and have no graphic content. I also moved to Oregon from Washington state in the US in 2022.
You published your first book in 2013 and by 2018 you had published eight books. What have you published since?
I’ve published three more books. I published The Little Secrets series of two books and a prequel (which is free) to my popular Santina Series called The Santa Secret.
I know you have written in the Spiritual, Literary, Women’s Fiction and Chick Lit genres. Have you added any more?
Those are my genres.
When you write, do you start with an idea and sit down and let it evolve, or do you make notes and plot the chapters beforehand?
I usually start with the crumb of an idea and let it flow. As the characters take shape, they seem to take over the story.
Would you like to give us a short excerpt from one of your books?
From The Santa SecretPage 37
“Elves?” Of course there would be elves. She bit her lip to keep her expression neutral.“The elves are hard workers. Things get so busy and the letters just pour in. We have an entire department handling the letters. And, let’s see. The ticker machine sends over Naughty and Nice information, so Pop can keep up with it.”“Ticker machine?”“Everything is in one building, the toy shop, the warehouse, the living quarters. It’s enormous. Except the reindeer, of course.”“Of course,” she repeated.“The town itself is kind of small. Not many people live there, mostly the elves and their families.”“Uh, huh.” Clara nodded, waiting for him to admit that it was all a joke. “The most incredible thing is when Pop takes off in the sleigh. It’s a sight to see.”“How could he possibly fit all those presents in one sleigh and deliver them all in one night?” Clara couldn’t help questioning.Nicky smiled. “Magic.”“Right.” Clara stood. “You seem really sincere, Nicky. I don’t know how you’re doing this with a straight face.”
Who is your favourite character and why? Is it still Molly from Whims & Vices and Fate & Flirtations or do you have a new favourite?
That’s like choosing a favorite child! Probably all my protagonists are parts of myself and I love them all. Santina (Tina) in The Daughter Claus has to be my favorite, because she was my mother’s idea. She wanted me to write a story about Santa’s daughter taking over the North Pole. I didn’t expect it to become a series, but it was so fun to write and readers loved it, so I had to continue the story. I named Mrs. Claus after my mother (Clara) who has since passed on. It was the best gift she ever gave me.
Which of your books gave you the most pleasure to write?
Again, The Daughter Claus. It was just so fun writing about Tina and her clueless rock star brother, her crazy best friend who crushes on an elf, talking reindeer, live snow people, and the challenges of the family business at the North Pole. I think it’s silly and funny and magical and romantic and heartwarming.
What is the best marketing tip you have received? Is it still Bookbub?
BookBub is by far the best marketing site. But I also decided to write a prequel to the Santina Series as a free entry into the series after I watched a video about marketing. The Santa Secret is a standalone book about how Clara meets and falls in love with a man who claims he’ll be the next Santa (excerpt above). I published the book in October and it’s gotten thousands of downloads since.
How would you describe yourself?
Hmmm. I care. I’m generous when I can be. I’m supportive, especially of other people’s dreams. I try to put good energy out into the world. I enjoy nature, especially birds and animals. I’m interested in learning and improving. I became vegan, after reading about health and the environment. I love being creative. And you gotta laugh! There’s humor in many of my books.
What do you do when you are not writing or reading?
Get outside and take walks. Go on road trips. Visit family and friends. Have long conversations. Take photos. I also play the stock market, which is a roller coaster.
If you could holiday anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?
I’ve always wanted to take a road trip across the US. I’d also love to see Australia and New Zealand.
If you have owned pets, do you have a funny story you would like to share with us?
Once when I paid attention to one of my cats, the other one followed me down the hall and smacked my leg. Then she just walked away. She was jealous!
What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read?
For non-fiction, I want to learn something or read a biography of someone inspiring or interesting. I also read a lot about health. For fiction, I want to read something unique and/or funny.
Do you have your own website?
Here’s my Amazon book page: Amazon.com: D. Thrush: books, biography, latest update https://www.amazon.com/stores/D.-Thrush/author/B00EIMYVU6
Are you working on a new book at the moment?
I’ve been working on a sequel to Fairy Tale Karma about Ava’s Fairy Godmother and always have other ideas percolating.
Do you have any events or book promotions coming up that you would like to tell us about?
All my books are available to read for free on Kindle Unlimited and The Santa Secret eBook is free online at all booksellers. I’m also planning sales in the next few months.
Thanks Rita! I always enjoy talking about my books!
Wow, times flies! I’m the author of Rom-Coms, Women’s/Literary Fiction and a spiritual adventure story. All my books are standalones (I hate cliffhangers!) and have no graphic content. I also moved to Oregon from Washington state in the US in 2022.
You published your first book in 2013 and by 2018 you had published eight books. What have you published since?
I’ve published three more books. I published The Little Secrets series of two books and a prequel (which is free) to my popular Santina Series called The Santa Secret.
I know you have written in the Spiritual, Literary, Women’s Fiction and Chick Lit genres. Have you added any more?
Those are my genres.
When you write, do you start with an idea and sit down and let it evolve, or do you make notes and plot the chapters beforehand?
I usually start with the crumb of an idea and let it flow. As the characters take shape, they seem to take over the story.
Would you like to give us a short excerpt from one of your books?
From The Santa SecretPage 37
“Elves?” Of course there would be elves. She bit her lip to keep her expression neutral.“The elves are hard workers. Things get so busy and the letters just pour in. We have an entire department handling the letters. And, let’s see. The ticker machine sends over Naughty and Nice information, so Pop can keep up with it.”“Ticker machine?”“Everything is in one building, the toy shop, the warehouse, the living quarters. It’s enormous. Except the reindeer, of course.”“Of course,” she repeated.“The town itself is kind of small. Not many people live there, mostly the elves and their families.”“Uh, huh.” Clara nodded, waiting for him to admit that it was all a joke. “The most incredible thing is when Pop takes off in the sleigh. It’s a sight to see.”“How could he possibly fit all those presents in one sleigh and deliver them all in one night?” Clara couldn’t help questioning.Nicky smiled. “Magic.”“Right.” Clara stood. “You seem really sincere, Nicky. I don’t know how you’re doing this with a straight face.”
Who is your favourite character and why? Is it still Molly from Whims & Vices and Fate & Flirtations or do you have a new favourite?
That’s like choosing a favorite child! Probably all my protagonists are parts of myself and I love them all. Santina (Tina) in The Daughter Claus has to be my favorite, because she was my mother’s idea. She wanted me to write a story about Santa’s daughter taking over the North Pole. I didn’t expect it to become a series, but it was so fun to write and readers loved it, so I had to continue the story. I named Mrs. Claus after my mother (Clara) who has since passed on. It was the best gift she ever gave me.
Which of your books gave you the most pleasure to write?
Again, The Daughter Claus. It was just so fun writing about Tina and her clueless rock star brother, her crazy best friend who crushes on an elf, talking reindeer, live snow people, and the challenges of the family business at the North Pole. I think it’s silly and funny and magical and romantic and heartwarming.
What is the best marketing tip you have received? Is it still Bookbub?
BookBub is by far the best marketing site. But I also decided to write a prequel to the Santina Series as a free entry into the series after I watched a video about marketing. The Santa Secret is a standalone book about how Clara meets and falls in love with a man who claims he’ll be the next Santa (excerpt above). I published the book in October and it’s gotten thousands of downloads since.
How would you describe yourself?
Hmmm. I care. I’m generous when I can be. I’m supportive, especially of other people’s dreams. I try to put good energy out into the world. I enjoy nature, especially birds and animals. I’m interested in learning and improving. I became vegan, after reading about health and the environment. I love being creative. And you gotta laugh! There’s humor in many of my books.
What do you do when you are not writing or reading?
Get outside and take walks. Go on road trips. Visit family and friends. Have long conversations. Take photos. I also play the stock market, which is a roller coaster.
If you could holiday anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?
I’ve always wanted to take a road trip across the US. I’d also love to see Australia and New Zealand.
If you have owned pets, do you have a funny story you would like to share with us?
Once when I paid attention to one of my cats, the other one followed me down the hall and smacked my leg. Then she just walked away. She was jealous!
What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read?
For non-fiction, I want to learn something or read a biography of someone inspiring or interesting. I also read a lot about health. For fiction, I want to read something unique and/or funny.
Do you have your own website?
Here’s my Amazon book page: Amazon.com: D. Thrush: books, biography, latest update https://www.amazon.com/stores/D.-Thrush/author/B00EIMYVU6
Are you working on a new book at the moment?
I’ve been working on a sequel to Fairy Tale Karma about Ava’s Fairy Godmother and always have other ideas percolating.
Do you have any events or book promotions coming up that you would like to tell us about?
All my books are available to read for free on Kindle Unlimited and The Santa Secret eBook is free online at all booksellers. I’m also planning sales in the next few months.
Thanks Rita! I always enjoy talking about my books!
Gabriel Wilensky - 19 January 2025
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Gabriel Wilensky
gabrielwilensky.com
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This week it is my pleasure to interview Gabriel Wilensky. Gabriel, can you start by introducing yourself and sharing what inspired you to write your latest book?
Thank you for having me! I’m Gabriel Wilensky, founder and writer at Thought Academy, a site dedicated to teaching people how to think and live well. I previously wrote Six Million Crucifixions, which explores the historical and societal factors that contributed to the Holocaust. My latest book builds on my passion for understanding complex systems and inspiring change. It’s the culmination of years of exploring how we can foster intellectual growth, create meaningful change, and pave the way for a more enlightened society.
What is the core message of your book, and who would benefit most from reading it?
At its heart, the book is a call to action for educators, leaders, and changemakers to rethink the systems shaping our world. It offers actionable strategies to cultivate critical thinking, innovation, and evidence-based beliefs while addressing the flaws in modern governance. If you’re passionate about creating a brighter future, this book is for you.
How did your background and experiences shape the ideas in your book?
My work with Thought Academy, where we focus on empowering people to think clearly and live well, has been instrumental in shaping the ideas in this book. It’s given me firsthand insights into how myths, dogma, and outdated beliefs can hold us back—and how we can overcome them with reason and compassion. My research for Six Million Crucifixions also profoundly influenced my understanding of how harmful ideologies take root and what we can do to prevent them.
Your book tackles some significant challenges. What makes your approach unique?
What sets my approach apart is the emphasis on both systemic change and individual growth. The book bridges the gap between high-level strategies for improving institutions and actionable steps anyone can take to embrace reason, foster intellectual curiosity, and build a better future.
How do you hope your book will spark change in education and society?
I hope it serves as a catalyst for a new Enlightenment—a shift toward reason, compassion, and intellectual growth. By equipping readers with practical tools and bold ideas, I aim to inspire educators to revolutionize learning, leaders to drive innovation, and individuals to break free from limiting beliefs.
Do you have a favorite section or chapter of your book? Why is it meaningful to you?
One of my favorite sections explores how to break free from mysticism and dogma. It’s deeply personal because I believe the ability to question outdated assumptions is key to progress. It’s empowering to realize we can rewrite our own narratives based on evidence and reason.
What’s the best feedback you’ve received from readers so far?
One reader told me that the book completely reshaped how she approaches conversations about politics and education. She said it gave her the confidence to challenge unproductive ideas and offer meaningful alternatives. That’s exactly the kind of impact I hoped for.
If you had to distill the essence of your book into one maxim, what would it be?
“Question everything, innovate boldly, and strive for a better world through reason and compassion.”
Beyond writing, what are your passions and how do they influence your work?
When I’m not writing, I’m exploring history, engaging in philosophical debates, listening to music, or enjoying the natural world. These interests fuel my curiosity and deepen my understanding of the complex systems that shape our society.
If you could implement one change in the world today, what would it be?
I would revolutionize education to prioritize critical thinking and creativity over rote memorization. Education is the foundation for everything, and transforming it could unlock the potential for widespread societal progress.
Can you tell us about any exciting new projects you’re working on?
Yes! I’m currently developing an AI-based system to teach K–12 children how to reason well and explore various philosophies of life. It’s designed to guide students through hundreds of interactive discussions throughout their school years, helping them build a strong foundation in critical thinking and values. I believe this project could be a game-changer for education.
What advice would you give to someone looking to spark meaningful change in their community?
Start by fostering dialogue rooted in evidence and empathy. Encourage others to question assumptions and offer actionable solutions. Change begins with small, deliberate steps that inspire others to follow.
Do you have a memorable story or anecdote from the process of writing this book?
One moment that stands out is when I connected the dots between Enlightenment values and modern challenges. It was like a lightning bolt—realizing that the solutions to today’s problems are rooted in ideas we’ve known for centuries but need to adapt to our time.
Finally, where can readers find out more about you and your work?
You can visit fuelforthought.org for more about my book, insights, and upcoming events. You can also explore Thought Academy, https://thoughtacademy.com where I share resources to help people think and live well, or gabrielwilensky.com for updates on my projects.
Thank you for having me! I’m Gabriel Wilensky, founder and writer at Thought Academy, a site dedicated to teaching people how to think and live well. I previously wrote Six Million Crucifixions, which explores the historical and societal factors that contributed to the Holocaust. My latest book builds on my passion for understanding complex systems and inspiring change. It’s the culmination of years of exploring how we can foster intellectual growth, create meaningful change, and pave the way for a more enlightened society.
What is the core message of your book, and who would benefit most from reading it?
At its heart, the book is a call to action for educators, leaders, and changemakers to rethink the systems shaping our world. It offers actionable strategies to cultivate critical thinking, innovation, and evidence-based beliefs while addressing the flaws in modern governance. If you’re passionate about creating a brighter future, this book is for you.
How did your background and experiences shape the ideas in your book?
My work with Thought Academy, where we focus on empowering people to think clearly and live well, has been instrumental in shaping the ideas in this book. It’s given me firsthand insights into how myths, dogma, and outdated beliefs can hold us back—and how we can overcome them with reason and compassion. My research for Six Million Crucifixions also profoundly influenced my understanding of how harmful ideologies take root and what we can do to prevent them.
Your book tackles some significant challenges. What makes your approach unique?
What sets my approach apart is the emphasis on both systemic change and individual growth. The book bridges the gap between high-level strategies for improving institutions and actionable steps anyone can take to embrace reason, foster intellectual curiosity, and build a better future.
How do you hope your book will spark change in education and society?
I hope it serves as a catalyst for a new Enlightenment—a shift toward reason, compassion, and intellectual growth. By equipping readers with practical tools and bold ideas, I aim to inspire educators to revolutionize learning, leaders to drive innovation, and individuals to break free from limiting beliefs.
Do you have a favorite section or chapter of your book? Why is it meaningful to you?
One of my favorite sections explores how to break free from mysticism and dogma. It’s deeply personal because I believe the ability to question outdated assumptions is key to progress. It’s empowering to realize we can rewrite our own narratives based on evidence and reason.
What’s the best feedback you’ve received from readers so far?
One reader told me that the book completely reshaped how she approaches conversations about politics and education. She said it gave her the confidence to challenge unproductive ideas and offer meaningful alternatives. That’s exactly the kind of impact I hoped for.
If you had to distill the essence of your book into one maxim, what would it be?
“Question everything, innovate boldly, and strive for a better world through reason and compassion.”
Beyond writing, what are your passions and how do they influence your work?
When I’m not writing, I’m exploring history, engaging in philosophical debates, listening to music, or enjoying the natural world. These interests fuel my curiosity and deepen my understanding of the complex systems that shape our society.
If you could implement one change in the world today, what would it be?
I would revolutionize education to prioritize critical thinking and creativity over rote memorization. Education is the foundation for everything, and transforming it could unlock the potential for widespread societal progress.
Can you tell us about any exciting new projects you’re working on?
Yes! I’m currently developing an AI-based system to teach K–12 children how to reason well and explore various philosophies of life. It’s designed to guide students through hundreds of interactive discussions throughout their school years, helping them build a strong foundation in critical thinking and values. I believe this project could be a game-changer for education.
What advice would you give to someone looking to spark meaningful change in their community?
Start by fostering dialogue rooted in evidence and empathy. Encourage others to question assumptions and offer actionable solutions. Change begins with small, deliberate steps that inspire others to follow.
Do you have a memorable story or anecdote from the process of writing this book?
One moment that stands out is when I connected the dots between Enlightenment values and modern challenges. It was like a lightning bolt—realizing that the solutions to today’s problems are rooted in ideas we’ve known for centuries but need to adapt to our time.
Finally, where can readers find out more about you and your work?
You can visit fuelforthought.org for more about my book, insights, and upcoming events. You can also explore Thought Academy, https://thoughtacademy.com where I share resources to help people think and live well, or gabrielwilensky.com for updates on my projects.
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This week it is my pleasure to interview Isabelle Knight. Would you please introduce yourself to my readers and share something about your life.
Hi! Thank you so much for having me here! My name is Isabelle Knight, and I am the teen, middle-grade fantasy author of a very magical and fantastical book series called Enchantria. I have been working on it for over a year, and it’s just been a really fun journey! I love cats, crystals, and am definitely a bookworm. I’ve been reading since I was nine and started the series when I was ten years old!
for my life, I live with my family and an embarrassing number of stuffed pandas. Oh, and a whole bookshelf that may be ready to burst. I also plan to collect more books!
When did you write your first book and how did it come about? I wrote my first book when I was ten years old during a very boring summer vacation. I’d just always had this awesome idea in my head about a girl who found her way into this magical kingdom and that there were at least two kingdoms, one that was good, and the other that was… Well, it’s not an evil kingdom, but an evil sorceress took over and she is trying to destroy the other kingdom. I was really a huge bookworm during that time and also a huge fan of the Warriors series by Erin Hunter. And because I was really bored, I just thought, Why not? I’m gonna write a book. It took six months to get the first draft and a fair amount of that time was spent screaming into my pillow and munching on french fries while binge watching Disney, totally stuck with no idea what to happen next. But I finally finished! I’m honestly really grateful that I was reading Warriors at the time because it gave me a fair share of ideas to ‘steal’.
Do you always write in the same genre or do you mix it up? As of now, I’ve only written three books in the Enchantria series and they’re all middle-grade fantasy. Middle-grade fantasy is just one of my favorite genres, and I read so much of it that I do plan to write many more MG fantasy books in my lifetime. I think I do have plans for some contemporary novels, but I think a lot of my books will be middle-grade fantasy.
When you write, do you start with an idea and sit down and let it evolve, or do you make notes and plot the chapters beforehand? Depends, this is tricky. I think I probably dive head first into typing out the prologue and just let the story take me wherever it wants. It’s a bit scary to do it this way, but I think if I knew everything that happened beforehand, I’d lose the thrill I normally get. And the surprises and ideas for plot twists that pop up along the way. That being said, planning can be helpful. For book four in the series which is currently still unpublished and a work in progress, I’ve had to plan and outline a bit because I just had so many ideas – and I mean SO MANY – that I wanted to happen in book four. But they were a bit of a mess in my brain, and outlining helped me. I didn’t make a full outline for the book, though. I just went a bit at a time, like I’d write a bit of an outline for let’s say, Chapter Three. And after I wrote Chapter Three, I’d go back and outline the next chapter or scene.
Would you like to give us a short excerpt from one of your books?
I’d love to! Um, lemme just go and see if I can find it in my mess of digital files.Ah! FOUND IT! I present to you, Enchantria: Guardian’s Heir! (hopefully I found the right one. AKA the published one and not the second draft) Prologue In the kingdom of Enchantria, in a land far from our own, the stars foretold a prophecy. Old and ancient. For years, people spoke of the prophecy that was rumored to foretell either the rise or fall of the kingdom. Thousands of years passed. Eventually people forgot about the prophecy. Until one fateful day… Chapter One Elena Ramirez hesitated at the foot of the creaky wooden stairs leading to the attic. Sixteen years old today, and what was she doing? Cleaning out the attic. She gave a resigned sigh, her shoulders slumping. Perhaps she shouldn’t have asked her father about her mother. Or she could’ve at least been a bit less blunt about it. She shook those thoughts away and sighed, taking a step forward. The stairs groaned and creaked under her weight, as if they hadn’t been stepped on in years. Which was probably true. The attic had been left abandoned for eleven years. No one had touched it. Not since… Elena shook those thoughts away again. Stop thinking about that, she scolded herself. She glanced up as she reached the top of the stairs. A crooked wooden door greeted her, adorned with a rusty old metal doorknob. She twisted it. It let out a long screech, but nothing else happened. She twisted it, and it let out another long screech. But still nothing. Gritting her teeth, she pushed and shoved until she finally forced the door open, stumbling into the attic. Dust swirled around her as she did so, and she coughed, blinking, her eyes adjusting to the dim light filtering in from a single small window. Cardboard boxes towered around her, filling the cramped attic space, completely coated in a thick layer of dust. Bending down, Elena picked up a faded photograph, her fingers tracing her mother’s face. A pang of sadness washed over her as she remembered happier days before her mother had left. Left and never returned. Her gaze drifted to the golden key hanging from her mother’s neck in the picture. The very same key that now hung from a cord around her neck. The same key she’d been given just before her mother had disappeared. Made of gold and glittering with several multi-colored rhinestones, it didn’t do much. In fact, it didn’t do anything. She’d tried every single lock in the house, and not a single one fit the key. They were either too small or too large or just didn’t fit. She sighed. But before she could dwell further, a voice shattered the silence. “Elena!” Startled, Elena glanced towards the door to see the doorknob jiggling and wobbling furiously. “Is this thing locked?” She immediately recognized her friend, Addie’s voice. “No!” Elena called back, tearing her gaze from the photo in her hand. With a final jolt, the door swung open, and Addie stumbled into the attic with an undignified crash, sending dust billowing through the air. Elena rushed to her side, coughing from the dust. “Are you alright?” she cried, helping Addie to her feet. Addie coughed, waving away the dust and shaking the cobwebs out of her dark red hair. “I’m fine,” she said, plastering a smile onto her face, her green eyes still bright. Then her eyes widened. “Whoa. What’s that?” Elena furrowed her brow. Then she saw what Addie was talking about. An ornate mirror stood tucked away in a corner of the attic, its frame made of gold and decorated with intricate carvings of illustrious tigers and vines. She frowned. Unlike the rest of the objects in the attic, this mirror seemed perfectly… fine. No coat of dust covered it. Its surface gleamed with a sheen almost as if it were brand new. But there was also something that seemed… old about it too. “I don’t know,” she frowned. She approached the mirror, brushing a lock of dark brown hair out of her eyes. She narrowed her eyes and gasped. In the corner of the frame was… a keyhole. But that was impossible. Who ever heard of a keyhole in a mirror? Her hand instinctively went to her key. “Elena? What are you doing?” But Elena barely heard Addie. All she could hear was the distant roar in her ears. Driven by a sudden impulse, she took off her key and inserted it into the keyhole. A blinding light erupted from the mirror, completely engulfing her. “Welcome, Elena Ramirez, daughter of the guardian, daughter of the warrior,” a voice whispered. The last thing Elena saw was Addie’s hand, desperately reaching out to grab her. Then everything went dark.
Who is your favourite character and why? In my books or just favorite character in general? My favorite character in general…. AHHH, this is so hard!!! I can’t just choose one!!! First would probably be Starlight Glimmer from My Little Pony. Her character arc is just so interesting, and I love how she evolves from a villain into a friend in the show. Second, Melanie from Believe by Julie Mathison. She is just like me – a tad bit shy, imaginative, and I just love her so much! And her imagination is just so vivid! She probably has one of my favorite character arcs and learns and grows a lot throughout the series. Third, Coral and Isa from Adrift by Tanya Guerrero. They just learn so much throughout the book, and they are so relatable in their emotions, the way they react to this horrible piece of news they receive (well, Isa receives… Coral… I’ll just say she’s part of that bad news. Don’t want to give spoilers!) just makes them so relatable. I cried at the end of this book. And I think my favorite character in one of my books is definitely Elenora. She’s going through a lot at the moment and I feel like all her emotions are just really in-depth. And she is also very loyal to her friends and will stick by them no matter what. She learns a lot by the end of the series!
Which of your books gave you the most pleasure to write? Depends, does it have to be published? If it has to be published, book two in the Enchantria series, Enchantria: Sun and Flame. I had this vague feeling of where the story was going to go, so it made everything just a bit less torturous trying to figure out the plot. Revisions were terrible, though. But writing the first draft was so much fun, and I got to reveal a lot more about the world of Enchantria, especially with the sun fairy kingdom, moon fairy kingdom, and dragon kingdom.
How would you describe yourself? An ambivert who loves books so much that she read 500 books in a year with Kindle! Very imaginative, excited, happy, bit of weirdo (in a good way), and very outgoing. I also love friends!
What do you do when you are not writing or reading? I love swimming, spending time outdoors, playing Uno, chatting and hanging out with friends, and brainstorming the next evil scheme for my poor main character. I also love listening to music and audiobooks while I draw and design book covers with my friend.
If you could holiday anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?
Depends. Where’s the biggest library with a whole collection of children’s books that won’t kick me out if I spend the whole day there? But for now, I’ll say Ireland or Yosemite. Ireland with its sea, mist, and of course, all of the legends and magical creatures would be amazing! Yosemite is just so beautiful, and I have been wanting to go there since I was five years old!
If you have owned pets, do you have a funny story you would like to share with us? I’ve had one beta fish, countless guppies, and my friend has nine cats. A story about my pets… it’s less funny, more mysterious. I also had some neon tetras, but just a week later, they vanished. Just like that. They didn’t die, they just vanished. Poof. Gone.
What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read? Not sure. I’ll pick up any book if it intrigues me. But I’d say a really good book blurb and a good cover. A good cover is so important because it conveys the tone and what people can expect from your book. And yes, covers really do all that. Plus, it looks really nice on my bookshelf. And a good book blurb just really hints at what is in the book, who the characters are, and what I can expect from it. I normally select books with a fantastical element along with important themes like friendship, bravery, and all that. Or I might just randomly select a book!
Do you have your own website? Yes, I do, actually! It’s springfallschronicle.com, and that’s the name because it was a website my dad created for me when I was a kid and wanted to be a news reporter. I didn’t use it for a long time, but just this year, I was considering getting an author website, and I remembered this one!!!!! Over there, you can find a bit more about my books, myself, and a whole lot of writing updates and book reviews.
Are you working on a new book at the moment? Yes, I am! I started during NaNoWriMo, and I am currently on the second draft!!! I won’t tell you what it’s about, though… It’s way too early for that. However, I’m also working on book four of the Enchantria series!!! It will be way more dramatic than the previous three books with way more blood, sweat, and tears, and I’m just really excited about it!
Do you have any events or book promotions coming up that you would like to tell us about?
Book three of the Enchantria series, Enchantria: Champion, was just released as a Kindle ebook on Amazon, and book two’s paperback is hitting the bookshelves January 25, which I am SOexcited about! I’m also interviewing other authors on my blog which is just so amazing!
When did you write your first book and how did it come about? I wrote my first book when I was ten years old during a very boring summer vacation. I’d just always had this awesome idea in my head about a girl who found her way into this magical kingdom and that there were at least two kingdoms, one that was good, and the other that was… Well, it’s not an evil kingdom, but an evil sorceress took over and she is trying to destroy the other kingdom. I was really a huge bookworm during that time and also a huge fan of the Warriors series by Erin Hunter. And because I was really bored, I just thought, Why not? I’m gonna write a book. It took six months to get the first draft and a fair amount of that time was spent screaming into my pillow and munching on french fries while binge watching Disney, totally stuck with no idea what to happen next. But I finally finished! I’m honestly really grateful that I was reading Warriors at the time because it gave me a fair share of ideas to ‘steal’.
Do you always write in the same genre or do you mix it up? As of now, I’ve only written three books in the Enchantria series and they’re all middle-grade fantasy. Middle-grade fantasy is just one of my favorite genres, and I read so much of it that I do plan to write many more MG fantasy books in my lifetime. I think I do have plans for some contemporary novels, but I think a lot of my books will be middle-grade fantasy.
When you write, do you start with an idea and sit down and let it evolve, or do you make notes and plot the chapters beforehand? Depends, this is tricky. I think I probably dive head first into typing out the prologue and just let the story take me wherever it wants. It’s a bit scary to do it this way, but I think if I knew everything that happened beforehand, I’d lose the thrill I normally get. And the surprises and ideas for plot twists that pop up along the way. That being said, planning can be helpful. For book four in the series which is currently still unpublished and a work in progress, I’ve had to plan and outline a bit because I just had so many ideas – and I mean SO MANY – that I wanted to happen in book four. But they were a bit of a mess in my brain, and outlining helped me. I didn’t make a full outline for the book, though. I just went a bit at a time, like I’d write a bit of an outline for let’s say, Chapter Three. And after I wrote Chapter Three, I’d go back and outline the next chapter or scene.
Would you like to give us a short excerpt from one of your books?
I’d love to! Um, lemme just go and see if I can find it in my mess of digital files.Ah! FOUND IT! I present to you, Enchantria: Guardian’s Heir! (hopefully I found the right one. AKA the published one and not the second draft) Prologue In the kingdom of Enchantria, in a land far from our own, the stars foretold a prophecy. Old and ancient. For years, people spoke of the prophecy that was rumored to foretell either the rise or fall of the kingdom. Thousands of years passed. Eventually people forgot about the prophecy. Until one fateful day… Chapter One Elena Ramirez hesitated at the foot of the creaky wooden stairs leading to the attic. Sixteen years old today, and what was she doing? Cleaning out the attic. She gave a resigned sigh, her shoulders slumping. Perhaps she shouldn’t have asked her father about her mother. Or she could’ve at least been a bit less blunt about it. She shook those thoughts away and sighed, taking a step forward. The stairs groaned and creaked under her weight, as if they hadn’t been stepped on in years. Which was probably true. The attic had been left abandoned for eleven years. No one had touched it. Not since… Elena shook those thoughts away again. Stop thinking about that, she scolded herself. She glanced up as she reached the top of the stairs. A crooked wooden door greeted her, adorned with a rusty old metal doorknob. She twisted it. It let out a long screech, but nothing else happened. She twisted it, and it let out another long screech. But still nothing. Gritting her teeth, she pushed and shoved until she finally forced the door open, stumbling into the attic. Dust swirled around her as she did so, and she coughed, blinking, her eyes adjusting to the dim light filtering in from a single small window. Cardboard boxes towered around her, filling the cramped attic space, completely coated in a thick layer of dust. Bending down, Elena picked up a faded photograph, her fingers tracing her mother’s face. A pang of sadness washed over her as she remembered happier days before her mother had left. Left and never returned. Her gaze drifted to the golden key hanging from her mother’s neck in the picture. The very same key that now hung from a cord around her neck. The same key she’d been given just before her mother had disappeared. Made of gold and glittering with several multi-colored rhinestones, it didn’t do much. In fact, it didn’t do anything. She’d tried every single lock in the house, and not a single one fit the key. They were either too small or too large or just didn’t fit. She sighed. But before she could dwell further, a voice shattered the silence. “Elena!” Startled, Elena glanced towards the door to see the doorknob jiggling and wobbling furiously. “Is this thing locked?” She immediately recognized her friend, Addie’s voice. “No!” Elena called back, tearing her gaze from the photo in her hand. With a final jolt, the door swung open, and Addie stumbled into the attic with an undignified crash, sending dust billowing through the air. Elena rushed to her side, coughing from the dust. “Are you alright?” she cried, helping Addie to her feet. Addie coughed, waving away the dust and shaking the cobwebs out of her dark red hair. “I’m fine,” she said, plastering a smile onto her face, her green eyes still bright. Then her eyes widened. “Whoa. What’s that?” Elena furrowed her brow. Then she saw what Addie was talking about. An ornate mirror stood tucked away in a corner of the attic, its frame made of gold and decorated with intricate carvings of illustrious tigers and vines. She frowned. Unlike the rest of the objects in the attic, this mirror seemed perfectly… fine. No coat of dust covered it. Its surface gleamed with a sheen almost as if it were brand new. But there was also something that seemed… old about it too. “I don’t know,” she frowned. She approached the mirror, brushing a lock of dark brown hair out of her eyes. She narrowed her eyes and gasped. In the corner of the frame was… a keyhole. But that was impossible. Who ever heard of a keyhole in a mirror? Her hand instinctively went to her key. “Elena? What are you doing?” But Elena barely heard Addie. All she could hear was the distant roar in her ears. Driven by a sudden impulse, she took off her key and inserted it into the keyhole. A blinding light erupted from the mirror, completely engulfing her. “Welcome, Elena Ramirez, daughter of the guardian, daughter of the warrior,” a voice whispered. The last thing Elena saw was Addie’s hand, desperately reaching out to grab her. Then everything went dark.
Who is your favourite character and why? In my books or just favorite character in general? My favorite character in general…. AHHH, this is so hard!!! I can’t just choose one!!! First would probably be Starlight Glimmer from My Little Pony. Her character arc is just so interesting, and I love how she evolves from a villain into a friend in the show. Second, Melanie from Believe by Julie Mathison. She is just like me – a tad bit shy, imaginative, and I just love her so much! And her imagination is just so vivid! She probably has one of my favorite character arcs and learns and grows a lot throughout the series. Third, Coral and Isa from Adrift by Tanya Guerrero. They just learn so much throughout the book, and they are so relatable in their emotions, the way they react to this horrible piece of news they receive (well, Isa receives… Coral… I’ll just say she’s part of that bad news. Don’t want to give spoilers!) just makes them so relatable. I cried at the end of this book. And I think my favorite character in one of my books is definitely Elenora. She’s going through a lot at the moment and I feel like all her emotions are just really in-depth. And she is also very loyal to her friends and will stick by them no matter what. She learns a lot by the end of the series!
Which of your books gave you the most pleasure to write? Depends, does it have to be published? If it has to be published, book two in the Enchantria series, Enchantria: Sun and Flame. I had this vague feeling of where the story was going to go, so it made everything just a bit less torturous trying to figure out the plot. Revisions were terrible, though. But writing the first draft was so much fun, and I got to reveal a lot more about the world of Enchantria, especially with the sun fairy kingdom, moon fairy kingdom, and dragon kingdom.
How would you describe yourself? An ambivert who loves books so much that she read 500 books in a year with Kindle! Very imaginative, excited, happy, bit of weirdo (in a good way), and very outgoing. I also love friends!
What do you do when you are not writing or reading? I love swimming, spending time outdoors, playing Uno, chatting and hanging out with friends, and brainstorming the next evil scheme for my poor main character. I also love listening to music and audiobooks while I draw and design book covers with my friend.
If you could holiday anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?
Depends. Where’s the biggest library with a whole collection of children’s books that won’t kick me out if I spend the whole day there? But for now, I’ll say Ireland or Yosemite. Ireland with its sea, mist, and of course, all of the legends and magical creatures would be amazing! Yosemite is just so beautiful, and I have been wanting to go there since I was five years old!
If you have owned pets, do you have a funny story you would like to share with us? I’ve had one beta fish, countless guppies, and my friend has nine cats. A story about my pets… it’s less funny, more mysterious. I also had some neon tetras, but just a week later, they vanished. Just like that. They didn’t die, they just vanished. Poof. Gone.
What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read? Not sure. I’ll pick up any book if it intrigues me. But I’d say a really good book blurb and a good cover. A good cover is so important because it conveys the tone and what people can expect from your book. And yes, covers really do all that. Plus, it looks really nice on my bookshelf. And a good book blurb just really hints at what is in the book, who the characters are, and what I can expect from it. I normally select books with a fantastical element along with important themes like friendship, bravery, and all that. Or I might just randomly select a book!
Do you have your own website? Yes, I do, actually! It’s springfallschronicle.com, and that’s the name because it was a website my dad created for me when I was a kid and wanted to be a news reporter. I didn’t use it for a long time, but just this year, I was considering getting an author website, and I remembered this one!!!!! Over there, you can find a bit more about my books, myself, and a whole lot of writing updates and book reviews.
Are you working on a new book at the moment? Yes, I am! I started during NaNoWriMo, and I am currently on the second draft!!! I won’t tell you what it’s about, though… It’s way too early for that. However, I’m also working on book four of the Enchantria series!!! It will be way more dramatic than the previous three books with way more blood, sweat, and tears, and I’m just really excited about it!
Do you have any events or book promotions coming up that you would like to tell us about?
Book three of the Enchantria series, Enchantria: Champion, was just released as a Kindle ebook on Amazon, and book two’s paperback is hitting the bookshelves January 25, which I am SOexcited about! I’m also interviewing other authors on my blog which is just so amazing!
Victor Torvich - 5 January 2025
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Victor Torvich
https://vtorvich.com
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This week it is my pleasure to interview Victor Torvich. Would you please introduce yourself to my readers, Victor, and share something about your life.
My pen name is Victor Torvich. I graduated in physics and, for many years, worked in scientific institutions. Upon emigration to the USA when I was 52, my wife and I had just over 10 years to earn our place in society, buy a home, and get enough money for retirement. That prompted me to set science aside and go into the software industry.
When did you write your first book and how did it come about?
After retirement, at 75, I was free to return to science. I got into the complex system theory field, published several articles in the Complex Systems journal, and, based on those articles, started to write my first book, "Subsurface History of Humanity: Direction of History." It was published at the beginning of 2021. My books are written from a complex systems perspective for the general public, 8th grade and above. They are about finding the trajectory humankind has been moving during the last 44 thousand years. From 2020 to 2021, I had a relatively small set of data about humankind's history, and the first book was short. In October 2024, I published the second book, "Directionality of Humankind's Development. History." This book provides a much more comprehensive view of humankind's history.
Do you always write in the same genre or do you mix it up?
So far, my books are in the same genre.
When you write, do you start with an idea and sit down and let it evolve, or do you make notes and plot the chapters beforehand?
My books are nonfiction and are based on research. In book writing, I have to go back and forth between writing and studying or doing additional research to support the writing.
Would you like to give us a short excerpt from one of your books?
The Subsurface History of Humanity is a history of the emergence of new resources created by humankind for itself. Resources determine what is possible for us to do. Resources are behind-the-scenes enablers for actions for all humans. That is why we call the history of resource creation a deep-level history. Deep-level history is the underlying foundation for a conventional history of events. Deep-level history of humankind does not depend on the social structures, politics, economics, wars, revolutions, dynasties, and any uncertain terms like progress, happiness, morality, social justice, etc. Presented models of humankind do not depend on observers, including the author of this book, viewpoints or prejudice on the role of individuals, society, religions, human races, random chance in history, etc.
Who is your favorite character and why?
In my second book, there are 318 very short stories about "first" events that were breakthrough moments in the history of humanity, like the first painting, the first submarine, the first writing, etc. Not all authors for such "firsts" are known. Among the known people, my favorite is Enheduanna (2285–2250BC), daughter of Sargon of Akkad. Among her works were hymns written in cuneiform. She was the first person to sign her texts with her own name. She is a creator of author literature.
Which of your books gave you the most pleasure to write?
"Directionality of Humankind's Development. History." I like it most because it covers a gigantic spectrum of humankind's activities with much more detail than the first book.
What is the best marketing tip you have received?
I still need to receive marketing tips suited to my situation.
How would you describe yourself?
I am an optimistic and creative person. In physics and engineering, I have worked in several different areas and got patents in all of them. Close to my retirement years, I began making artwork, specifically photos and digital art. Now, I have over 2000 artworks on my art website. My books are creative, too. Here is a quote from a review of my second book by a reader named David - "It is what I call a foundational book. ... If in the future others attempt to look at human development purely through the created resources, we should look back at this book as where it all started."
What do you do when you are not writing or reading?
I'll meet with our daughter and grandkids, walk, do artwork, and do routine housework.
If you could holiday anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?
Maui, where we have a timeshare.
If you have owned pets, do you have a funny story you would like to share with us?
I do not have pets.
What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read?
In fiction, I prefer good science fiction; in nonfiction history, I like books based on facts, not opinions.
Do you have your own website?
I have two websites. The first, History of Humanity, is https://vtorvich.com/. It is for my history blogs, books, and other stuff I wrote. The second website, https://yuri-tomashevi.pixels.com/, is for my artwork. For the 1st website, the author's name is Victor Torvich, and the 2nd one is Yuri Tomashevi.
Are you working on a new book at the moment?
Nope
Do you have any events or book promotions coming up that you would like to tell us about?
Not yet.
My pen name is Victor Torvich. I graduated in physics and, for many years, worked in scientific institutions. Upon emigration to the USA when I was 52, my wife and I had just over 10 years to earn our place in society, buy a home, and get enough money for retirement. That prompted me to set science aside and go into the software industry.
When did you write your first book and how did it come about?
After retirement, at 75, I was free to return to science. I got into the complex system theory field, published several articles in the Complex Systems journal, and, based on those articles, started to write my first book, "Subsurface History of Humanity: Direction of History." It was published at the beginning of 2021. My books are written from a complex systems perspective for the general public, 8th grade and above. They are about finding the trajectory humankind has been moving during the last 44 thousand years. From 2020 to 2021, I had a relatively small set of data about humankind's history, and the first book was short. In October 2024, I published the second book, "Directionality of Humankind's Development. History." This book provides a much more comprehensive view of humankind's history.
Do you always write in the same genre or do you mix it up?
So far, my books are in the same genre.
When you write, do you start with an idea and sit down and let it evolve, or do you make notes and plot the chapters beforehand?
My books are nonfiction and are based on research. In book writing, I have to go back and forth between writing and studying or doing additional research to support the writing.
Would you like to give us a short excerpt from one of your books?
The Subsurface History of Humanity is a history of the emergence of new resources created by humankind for itself. Resources determine what is possible for us to do. Resources are behind-the-scenes enablers for actions for all humans. That is why we call the history of resource creation a deep-level history. Deep-level history is the underlying foundation for a conventional history of events. Deep-level history of humankind does not depend on the social structures, politics, economics, wars, revolutions, dynasties, and any uncertain terms like progress, happiness, morality, social justice, etc. Presented models of humankind do not depend on observers, including the author of this book, viewpoints or prejudice on the role of individuals, society, religions, human races, random chance in history, etc.
Who is your favorite character and why?
In my second book, there are 318 very short stories about "first" events that were breakthrough moments in the history of humanity, like the first painting, the first submarine, the first writing, etc. Not all authors for such "firsts" are known. Among the known people, my favorite is Enheduanna (2285–2250BC), daughter of Sargon of Akkad. Among her works were hymns written in cuneiform. She was the first person to sign her texts with her own name. She is a creator of author literature.
Which of your books gave you the most pleasure to write?
"Directionality of Humankind's Development. History." I like it most because it covers a gigantic spectrum of humankind's activities with much more detail than the first book.
What is the best marketing tip you have received?
I still need to receive marketing tips suited to my situation.
How would you describe yourself?
I am an optimistic and creative person. In physics and engineering, I have worked in several different areas and got patents in all of them. Close to my retirement years, I began making artwork, specifically photos and digital art. Now, I have over 2000 artworks on my art website. My books are creative, too. Here is a quote from a review of my second book by a reader named David - "It is what I call a foundational book. ... If in the future others attempt to look at human development purely through the created resources, we should look back at this book as where it all started."
What do you do when you are not writing or reading?
I'll meet with our daughter and grandkids, walk, do artwork, and do routine housework.
If you could holiday anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?
Maui, where we have a timeshare.
If you have owned pets, do you have a funny story you would like to share with us?
I do not have pets.
What is the biggest factor for you when selecting a book to read?
In fiction, I prefer good science fiction; in nonfiction history, I like books based on facts, not opinions.
Do you have your own website?
I have two websites. The first, History of Humanity, is https://vtorvich.com/. It is for my history blogs, books, and other stuff I wrote. The second website, https://yuri-tomashevi.pixels.com/, is for my artwork. For the 1st website, the author's name is Victor Torvich, and the 2nd one is Yuri Tomashevi.
Are you working on a new book at the moment?
Nope
Do you have any events or book promotions coming up that you would like to tell us about?
Not yet.