Interview with Katy Lee, Author of Real Virtue!

Today I am hosting Katy Lee, the author of Real Virtue.  I found out about Katy and her book through the International Online  Book Club of Clean Reads.  Crystal Kelly, the founder of the club, asked me to be its administrator.  Our club helps to bring authors, readers and bloggers together and introduce them to clean reads.  Here is our club's website: http://cleanreadsbookclub.webs.com/browse-our-shelves.  Each month we will feature a different author, discuss their book, promote them, review their book, and feature them on different blogs and our group website.  We also have a Facebook group where we support each other.  You'll be seeing me do different posts each month reviewing books and interviewing the authors of those books from the club.  For more information, go to the website above and fill out the contact us form.

1)  Welcome Katy! Please tell us what you write:

Hello Megan, thank you for having me. I am excited to be here today to share about myself, but also about my debut novel, Real Virtue. I write Inspirational-romantic-suspense. I’ve tried to write contemporary romance, but no matter what I do, a villain ends up rearing his, or her, ugly head. For the most part, my stories are contemporary, but I am presently plotting a historical. Not sure if it will ever see the light of day, but I am having loads of fun with it! A few weekends ago, I attended a showing of 19th century fashion at my local university. The dresses were beautiful, and I loved hearing about why certain patterns and fabrics became the rage for the ladies in these times. A writer’s delight, for sure!

2)  Tell us what motivates you to keep at writing:

What motivates me? Believe it or not, deadlines. Give me a deadline and it will be done. Even if the deadline is tomorrow. When my publisher gave me the final edits of Real Virtue she told me I had until five o’clock the next day to proof them. I got them back to her at 4:55. Whew! The saying goes, you want something done, give it to someone who is busy. An object in motion stays in motion. Well, I am that person in constant motion…just make sure you give me the deadline.

3)  How does your faith affect your daily life?

I don’t make a move without God’s direction. When I have feelings of worry, I remind myself that worry is fear, and God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. I handle the task at hand, and trust He will provide what I need for it when I need it.

4)  How much spirituality do you weave into your stories?

My stories are not sermons, however, I allow my Christian characters free rein when it comes to The Great Commission. As the story progresses their faith shines through as another thread, but more importantly, they demonstrate what the Christian life looks like. I want the inspirational arc to be revealed naturally through the story.

5)  What is your general purpose as an author?

My general purpose as an author is my general purpose in everything I do¬¬—to glorify Christ. But the message I hope to convey to my readers through my stories, is that God is in the business of rehabilitating lives, and there is no one not worth His time.

6)  What is your greatest challenge in your writing?

My greatest challenge is time. I home-school my children, and I am also the Children’s Ministry Director for my church. Both take up huge chunks of time, but they are commitments I have made, and I need to be obedient and responsible in carrying those duties out. If it means I start my day at 5AM to get my word count in, then that is what I do. People ask me all the time how I am able to write. I tell them the question isn’t how I am I able. The question is how much do I want it?

7)  "Real Virtue" has a lot to do with gaming and gaming addiction.  I am currently seeing a neurological chiropractor who treats a lot of children who deal with ADD and other neurological disorders.  Recently I saw a sign in his office that said something to the effect of the neurological patients could not play any kind of video or computer game except for the motion control games, like Wii, because these games have negative neurological effects on the brain.  My mind immediately went to "Real Virtue."  During your research for "Real Virtue," did you come across any information on the effects of gaming on one's health (mental or physical)?

Yes, I did, but I will be honest and say I didn’t pay too much attention to the damaging brain effects, so I can’t give you any hard facts about them. I paid more attention to the addicting effects and how people use games as a means of escape and to avoid the problems they face in their real lives. I read many interviews where kids and young adults admitted to preferring their virtual lives over their real ones. In real life they can’t zap out of a situation they don’t like. They can in their virtual world.

I find it extremely interesting that your chiropractor would post this note, though. It means he is seeing more and more cases where people are experiencing neurological problems that are related to gaming, and honestly, I think it will only get worse.


8)  Please share a little of your research for "Real Virtue."  Did you play any video games for your research?

AHA! Yes, I did, but not at first. I was kind of afraid to open these accounts. They want credit card numbers so you can buy things for your avatar, and I could see how one simple purchase could get out of hand. I could also see the allure people might have to it with their bright color screens and beautiful people and amazing promises of the perfect life. There are many out there to choose from. There are adventurous games of travel to the violent variety, like wars and vampires. But then there are also the sites geared toward children. I suppose if you get them used to buying into these at a young age, kids will grow up thinking it is normal and will continue to do so.


9)  I had noticed your characters were so real in "Real Virtue," Arlene (the main character's mother) especially, who deals with schizophrenia.  Then I saw on one of your interviews on another blog that she was based on your mother, which made a lot of sense.  Are any of the other characters taken from your real-life experiences?

Yes, Arlene is loosely based on my mom. Like my mom, Arlene suffers from the horrible brain disease, Schizophrenia. When I set out to write Real Virtue, I did not plan for Arlene to have this disease. Never in my wildest imagination did I think my story would link up with it either, but during my research of online virtual-reality gaming I came across an avatar with this affliction. You see, in Real Virtue, it is my heroine who is the gamer and takes her pastime a little too far. She is living a life that is a bit removed from reality…just like her mother. But in Mel’s case, she has the choice.

But, Mel is in no way based on a particular person in my life, other than perhaps my kids who, in my opinion, play too many video games. I see how they get sucked into a game and nothing around them matters anymore, not even their friends. I’ve watched my son’s friend go home because my son wasn’t talking to him. I put a one-hour limit on gaming in my house, because if I don’t they would play all day without even realizing it.

As for my hero, Jeremy Stiles, I WISH there was someone in this world he was based on. (SIGH) But seriously, I had to create a man who would outshine the virtual world Mel preferred. He had to be someone who could see the truth and stand by it, but still love her through it. The world could use more Jeremy’s.


FYI-I want people to know Real Virtue is not some high-tech computer story non-gamers wouldn’t understand. Only a small fraction takes place in the virtual world, just enough for the reader to get a feel for it. The rest is a small-town, coming-home story.

I hope you enjoy it!

Thank you, Megan for having me on your blog! Readers, I love comments and would love to hear from you.

And please keep in touch with me at my website: www.KatyLeeBooks.com

You will see links for Twitter and Facebook. Let’s connect and get to know each other!

BIO:

Katy Lee writes higher purpose stories in high speed worlds. As an inspirational author, speaker, home-schooling mom, and children’s ministry director, she has dedicated her life to sharing tales of love, from the greatest love story ever told to those sweet romantic stories of falling in love. Her fresh and unique voice brings a fast-paced and modern feel to her romances that are sure to resonate with readers long after the last page. Her debut novel Real Virtue is a finalist in many writing contests, and took second place in the 2011 Georgia Maggie Award of Excellence. Katy lives in New England with her husband, three children, and two cats.


And here is a bit about Real Virtue:



In a virtual reality game where she can fly, someone’s aiming to take her down.

Mel Mesini is a New York City restaurateur and an avid, virtual reality world traveler. But her successful life—both online and in reality—takes a swerve the night her father is seriously injured in a hit-and-run. To make matters worse, Officer Jeremy Stiles, the man who had once cut her deep with his harsh, rejecting words, is heading the investigation.

When Jeremy realizes Mel is the actual target, he plans to protect her—whether she wants him to or not. What he wants is answers, especially about this online game she plays. Is it a harmless pastime as she says? Or is she using it to cover something up? As a faceless predator destroys the things that matter to her, Jeremy knows he’s running out of time before she loses the one thing that matters most—her real life.

Real Virtue is available in ebook format, paperback in November. It is available on Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com and Soulmatepublishing.com

LINKS:

http://www.amazon.com/Real-Virtue-ebook/dp/B007SHM5AQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1334628132&sr=1-1

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1110011399?ean=2940014205566

http://www.soulmatepublishing.com/real-virtue/

Thank you so much Katy for being on my blog and for the interview!  I would highly recommend Real Virtue to anyone.  I am reading it right now and I love it! 

Launch Out Into the Deep by Acacia Beumer & Aaron Slaton! $50 VISA GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY & 2 Book GIVEAWAY!

Acacia Beumer:

Acacia Slaton Beumer is a graduate of Oral Roberts University; she will earn her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy in the summer of 2012. She works in the Social Service field and finds a sense of joy from helping others. Her husband John is in the United States Army. She has two daughters; Jana is 3 years old Jaci is 1. Acacia loves to interact with readers and welcomes questions and feedback. Her next project is to write an autobiography about her many life experiences. If you're interested in contacting Acacia email her at acacia@launchoutbook.com . May you be tremendously blessed and continue to persevere and daily grow in your walk with Christ.

Aaron L. Slaton:

Aaron Slaton is the author of the poetry and one chapter featured in this book. Writing since the age of twelve, Aaron has been gifted with the ability to bring the Scriptures to life through rhythm and rhyme. Aaron is an aspiring songwriter and producer. If you're interested in contacting Aaron email him at aaron@launchoutbook.com .

Website -www.launchoutbook.com 

Purchase Link:

http://www.amazon.com/Launch-Out-Into-Deep-ebook/dp/B005Y4F872/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1333040780&sr=8-2

 Link to Tour on Main Site - http://www.virtualbooktourcafe.com/3/post/2012/03/launch-out-into-the-deep-by-acacia-beumer-aaron-slaton.html

Giveaway:

There will be a $50 Visa Gift Card to one commenter from tour, and $50 Visa Gift Card to host with most comments.

 

The topics are contemporary and compelling; these are subjects that affect our world today and those for which people are seeking genuine guidance. Her words reveal an understanding of the depth of emotions in our world, as she explains situations through her own personal experiences. Yet, throughout the book, there is a solid and strong emphasis on the Word of God. The author has effectively bridged the gap between the natural and the spiritual world. Her complete reliance on the power of God brings a taste of heaven to some of today's bitter situations. Sexual promiscuity, peer pressure, disease and even crime are discussed with a bold and frank style. Readers will know there is nothing outside of God's reach that He cannot restore and make right again. An added layer of spiritual enlightenment comes from the poems that accompany many of these essays. Intense and extremely insightful, the words of Aaron L. Slaton provide a strong commentary to his sister's counsel. Encouraging, yet filled with many hard-hitting exhortations, this book speaks with a contemporary language and a timeless commitment to love and truth.

Interview with Acacia Beumer

Hello Acacia and welcome to Faery Tales Are Real!  I am so happy to have you today.Thank you for being here!

Thanks so much for having me Megan.  I am honored to be your featured guest!

1. You seem very passionate about your writing and the topics you write about.How did you get started as a writer?

Acacia: Megan, I remember, when I was no more than four years old, having a fascination with words and a strong desire to read.I would take out my chalk and copy words from a kid’s book onto the blackboard.Then I’d try to pronounce the words and would ask my mom for help if I ran across a word I couldn’t pronounce.This fascination with words and reading turned into a desire to write.I would attempt to write fiction novels at the age of twelve.I’d write up to one hundred pages and would be anxious to share and receive feedback from family and friends.After a while, I stopped writing.Instead, I became an avid reader.I was really into V.C. Andrews and Judy Blume when I was a youth.If I find the time, I still occasionally enjoy reading some of V.C. Andrews’ books (smile). My college professor and friends encouraged me to get back into writing again.The same college professor encouraged me to keep a journal and to date and write about events in my life.One of my college friends said,“If you leave this earth and don’t share your story it would be a “crying shame.”The truth of the matter was that I didn’t have faith in my writing ability. I read too many books by famous writers and believed there was no way I could measure up.Recently, I told my mom that although I’d written a book, I still didn’t see myself as the best writer.Mom replied, “Acacia, writing is not always about technicality.It’s being capable of sharing experiences in a way that’s vivid, engaging and relatable.That’s your gift; you are a writer!”

2. I love that you combine your brother’s poetry with your writing.How long have you two been working as a team and what does that process look like?

Acacia:To be honest Megan, we never worked together prior to the release of “Launch Out Into The Deep.”It just happened by chance or, should I say, it wasn’t coincidental but was part of God’s plan.While working at a psychiatric hospital for children and adolescents I was inspired to write a poem titled, Fear Not Only Believe, which is featured in our book.

I began the prose with these words:

“Fear not my child, for I am near.

I will wipe away every tear.

Be not ashamed, you are not alone.

I am your sunshine in the midst of the storm.

Step forth in faith—do not sway; the help you need is on the way.

Hold your head up high—look towards the sky,

for the Lord Jehovah is nearby.”

This is where my brother Aaron began after I had tried unsuccessfully to complete the poem:

“Just when your hope seems to fade away,

the Lord comes just in time to save the day.

He may not come when you want Him to,

but He’s the Lord Almighty, He knows what to do.

The Lord always comes in the right season;

He wants to make sure you’re ready that’s the reason.

Look towards the horizon and you will see,

your path through the storm to your destiny.”

My mom and I encouraged him to write more and from that point on he’s written over twenty pieces of prose that we believed should be published and shared with others.During our research into publishing, we discovered that poetry is not easily marketable so I decided to write on the various topics of Aaron’s poetry in a devotional style, which later became known as my first book “Launch Out Into The Deep!”

3. Please describe the part your faith plays in your writing.

Acacia:My life experiences are intertwined with my faith.I believe this is mainly because I know without a doubt that if it had not been for God’s grace and mercy I would not have been privileged to write “Launch Out Into The Deep.” “Launch Out Into The Deep” is my alabaster box.In this book, I’m transparent and I lie down my entire being, my innermost secrets, my fears, hopes, belief and my unbelief at the feet of Jesus.Writing is healing and it has brought so much spiritual cleansing in my life.I will forever honor God and can’t forget his faithfulness throughout my youth.At the age of 15, I was diagnosed with schizophrenia and my prior psychiatrist told my mom I would never be normal or able to function in society.God said,“This sickness is not unto death but that the father through the son will be glorified” (John 11:4).Amen and Amen!

4. What tips could you give for those interested in becoming an author?

Acacia:Don’t let it be said that you left this earth with unfulfilled dreams.Begin the writing process and surround yourself with people who support you. Find your voice and don’t imitate others.Don’t equate success with receiving a traditional publishing contract because one may never come.There are many renown authors who self-published their first book.The sky is the limit!

5. If you could share one piece of advice with readers, what would it be?

Acacia:Always believe and hope for the best in each and every circumstance.When you’ve done all you can, trust God and let Him do the rest. You are too blessed to stress!

6. Where can readers find you and can up to date with the latest information on your books?

Acacia:Readers can visit my site at www.launchoutbook.com.  Sign up for our newsletter and receive two sample chapters from the book, two audio book mp3’s and a screen saver. Also, tune in to my most recent TV interview. Also, readers, one first place winner (the reader who leaves the most comments) will have an opportunity to have a choice of receiving “Launch Out Into The Deep!” Audio Book MP3 CD, or the Paperback book. And the second place winner will receive the E-book. Let the comments begin! JAnd don’t forget to follow my blog tour until the end, as one special winner (who leaves the most comments on my posts, throughout the tour) will receive a $50.00 Visa gift card. Ready, set, go… BANG, BANG!

Thank you so much for your time.It was wonderful having you!

Acacia: Thanks so much for having me Megan. Also, thanks all readers for your support!

When we were children, our interest and adoration was for fairy tales. I do not know any child who does not like hearing stories or watching movies of this nature. My favorite cartoons were and still are "Snow White", "Beauty and the Beast", and best of all, "Cinderella". Although, these stories are fairy tales, they have some truth because they depict certain realities. In each of these stories, the main character goes through tests and trials and unwanted hardships. In each case, her fate seems doomed, but through the storms of life, she comes out shining like a star. In the end, each heroine’s character and virtue were found to be true. As we become adults, we sometimes wish these fairy tales were reality. One thing is certain: life may bring hurt, shame, uncertainties, and fears, but in each of us is a small child who still dreams and is entitled to a happy ending.

Now that I have your attention, come on a journey with me to the Book of Ruth. Her story may make you cry, but in the end you will be in awe. If God was faithful in the life of Ruth, there is still hope for you. Some of you reading this may have recently lost your spouse or a child. More than likely, you’re not over the loss and are still grieving. Maybe you are in a financial bind and see no way out of your hardship, or perhaps, like myself, you are single and tired of meeting toads. It doesn’t matter your background or status in life—if you are here, there is a message for you from the story of Ruth.

--I Still Believe: The Cinderella Story, Chapter Excerpt from Launch Out Into The Deep 

Please leave a comment with your e-mail address below to be entered in the contest to win a copy of Launch Out Into the Deep.  Winners will be selected at Random.org.  First place winner will have a choice of a paper back copy of the book or an MP3.  Second place will get an E-book copy.  Whoever leaves the most comments on Acacia's posts throughtout the blog tour will receive a $50.00 VISA gift card.  This is the beginning of the tour, so start commenting!  You can find the link to the main site of the tour above, which will take you to all the tour stops, where you can leave comments.