Author Interview with Sharlene Almond, author of Initiated to Kill

Initiated to Kill by Sharlene Almond

Release Date: 14th January 2015
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.

 

About the Author

As an author of historical/21^st 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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