Friday, 4 December 2015
Initiated to Kill by Sharlene Almond
Release Date: 14th January 2015
Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press LLC
Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press LLC
Genres: Crime / Mystery / Thriller
Brook Cottage Books is thrilled to welcome author Sharlene Almond to the blog.
Author Interview
Do you write under
your real name or is this a pen name you use?
I write under my own name – Sharlene Almond
Where are you from?
I’m from Auckland, New Zealand. But was born in Taupo, New
Zealand
List 3 interesting
facts about yourself.
I think I’m addicted to studying. I studied a range of
things from beauty therapy, dog behaviour, Journalism, editing, Criminlogy,
photography, Cognitive Behavioural therapy, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, and
currently studying body language.
I’ve always been fascinated both with history and the
criminal psyche; which is why I include both elements in all my novels I write.
I love to bake. Whether it be cakes, muffins, cheesecake or
slices.
What was the first
thing you ever had published?
Initiated to Kill is my first novel I have had traditionally
published. However, I have written a variety of articles that have appeared on
different sites.
Do you have a writing
routine?
I’m most productive in the morning. So I usually do a
workout and then get into writing. Sometimes I stick to writing all morning, or
researching. Other times I study in the morning, and do some writing and
researching in the afternoon.
Do you have any
writing rituals?
I always make sure before starting to write my novels, that
I have done a general plot outline, then use word excel to set up the chapter
outline. Doing this clearly sets out what I need to do on that day. And building
on this outline through the research process.
Where did the idea for your most recent book come from?
The novel that I am working on now
is based around the idea/theory that the Bubonic Plague was man-made. So the
historical aspect of my novel is constructed through how the Bubonic Plague
spread to Europe. Starting in China, and using a range of different characters
to narrate how this plague spread.
The present-day element includes
Annabella Cordova been sent to Greece to investigate the many deaths that have
occurred that closely resembles the Bubonic Plague.
Who was the first
person you shared your book with?
My mum. I always bounce off ideas to her. However, my sister
was the first to read my novel.
Do you have a current
work in progress?
I have recently published a non-fiction e-book – Journey in
Little Paradise. The New Zealand travel book that starts in Paihia, and takes
the reader to a range of places scattered throughout New Zealand. Including the
well-known places, all the way to exploring the out-of-the-way adventures.
The book is designed for both the cost-effective traveller,
wine lover, adrenaline junkie, family-friendly, and Lord of the Rings fans. All
the reader needs to know about New Zealand, then some. Including some things
that even New Zealanders don’t know much about.
Do you have any
advice for budding authors?
Stick with what you love. You will get rejected constantly,
reviewers and readers may not like your work. But keep focused on the fact that
you love to write. Write as a hobby, and you never know what may come out of
it.
I hear quite a lot of people say that have always wanted to
write a novel. You have to start somewhere. Put your ideas down on paper, write
out a plot outline. Even if you don’t write every day, aim to write as often as
possible. Eventually you will have plenty of material to make into a novel.
BOOK BLURB
Initiated to Kill is a psychological thriller that is partly based on a
true story; combined with conspiracy and a deaf art student. Delve into two
serial killer's psyche - one in 19th century London, and the other present-day
Spain. What drove them to do it?
Annabella Cordova quickly becomes embroiled in the conspiracy involving
the university she studies at. When her roommate goes missing, it becomes very
personal. Her ability to read facial and body language in people leads her to
discover parallels from an earlier century.
Every six days a package arrives at police headquarters, where Andres
Valero gradually uncovers a conspiracy resembling one attempted centuries ago. In 19th century
London, a man, an artist roams the streets of Whitechapel for his prey. But who
was this infamous serial killer? His childhood background, the man that transforms
into a killer. Explore the psychological workings of a killer that was never
apprehended – Jack the Ripper.
Initiated to Kill unmasks two serial killers - initiated into a powerful organisation to kill.
Initiated to Kill unmasks two serial killers - initiated into a powerful organisation to kill.
About the Author
As an author of historical/21st century psychological,
international thrillers, my books challenge readers to think beyond what they
believe, as well as taking the reader on a journey throughout Europe and
abroad. I have conducted a lot of research into the historical aspect, so that
it is as close to what actually happened as much as possible.
Having studied in Criminology and Neuro Linguistic programming; in
addition to doing a diploma course in body language, enables me to give an
authentic feel to my characters, and the crimes committed. Because I’ve always
been fascinated with human psychology, especially criminal psychology, I always
include that element in every book I write.
My books don’t just cover the crimes committed, but what drove that
person to commit those crimes? Examining their past, their weaknesses, and
childhood; all building up to why some of the most infamous crimes were
committed.
Author links
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