Inside Scoop Live!

"Shadow Runner" by KJ Fieler

KJ Fieler is known for her exceptional storytelling and captivating narratives. She's won multiple awards, including:​
Literary Titan Gold
Firebird Award for Women's Issues and Weird Genre
2023 Historical Fiction Company, 5-star Reader's Choice and Silver Award for Fantasy
The 20th Annual "Best Book" Awards, Finalist
Reader's Favorite, 5-star Reader's Choice and Finalist​
 She also hosts Writer 2 Writer, an enlightening YouTube author spotlight show. Through this platform, she delves into the lives and works of fellow authors, shedding light on their creative processes and showcasing their latest works. 
Fieler's award-winning debut novel, "Shadow Runner" is the first installment in a thrilling three-book Victorian Adventure series which plunges readers into an exhilarating world of mystery and intrigue. "Shadow Hunter," the highly anticipated second book in the Shadow Series, is set to debut in December of 2024.
LEARN MORE ABOUT KJ FIELER AND HER WORK: https://www.kjfieler.com/
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
About Shadow Runner and the inspiraton for the story
Exploring Ada's journey from aristocrat to assassin, her changing views on freedom, and the societal and moral challenges she faces.
The integration of Victorian elements with steampunk innovation and the supernatural, including world-building and the setting's unique atmosphere.
How Ada's relationships reflect Victorian and modern power structures, as well as the deeper truths and societal norms challenged in the story.
Insights into the series' trajectory, potential developments in book two, and any hints about upcoming projects.
SHADOW RUNNER by KJ Fieler
Born to aristocracy, Ada will marry and never want for anything, except freedom. An unearthly visitor and a series of seemingly supernatural events unexpectedly deliver her from the mundane. But no one could have predicted the darkness that comes with it. Taken in and raised by a secret society, Ada is groomed as an assassin. As she comes of age, she must become a predator, targeting members of the very nobility to which she was born... or try to escape. But if she leaves, she risks the lives of the two she loves most... her adopted sister... and her captor.
CONNECT WITH KJ FIELER!
https://www.kjfieler.com/
https://www.facebook.com/kat.fieler/
https://www.youtube.com/@KatFieler
https://www.instagram.com/katfieler/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553066355617

"When Power Fails" by Gary D. McGugan

Gary D. McGugan has always enjoyed reading and storytelling, but for more than forty years, he was deeply embedded in the corporate world. Anyone who has operated at a senior level within a large company knows there’s little time for serious writing, and it took retirement from that world to pursue a new passion. His first book was a work of non-fiction, co-authored with his friend Jeff Allen. That positive experience demonstrated that while writing a book is undeniably challenging, it’s not insurmountable.
McGugan’s life experiences now form the foundation for entertaining suspense thrillers, set against the backdrop of a large, multinational corporation and woven with intrigue. Since his debut novel in 2016, Three Weeks Less a Day, he has released a new book each year, with his eighth, When Power Fails, now available.
His corporate career offered a wealth of insight into a wide range of industries and situations. He worked in supermarkets, sold appliances, distributed motorcycles, launched an automobile dealer network, and provided financing and consulting to help businesses grow. Each industry had its unique culture and character, yet all were units of large corporations with operations around the world.
Travel has always been a significant part of his career. Before starting the automobile business for Suzuki Motor Company’s Canadian subsidiary, he had the pleasure of visiting nearly every city, town, village, and hamlet in Canada while leading sales and marketing for its motorcycle division.
A role with an ITT subsidiary took him to most U.S. states. Living and working in Germany for several years while creating a new business unit for Deutsche Bank gave him the opportunity to visit all EU countries, and later, responsibilities with a GE Capital subsidiary allowed him to explore various countries in Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. Every trip was a learning experience.
In those days, it was essential to study business practices and cultures before each trip. Each day spent in a new country yielded valuable insights into its people, culture, laws, and unique qualities.
Today, McGugan is a member and former Co-Chair of the Writers’ Community of York Region, a vibrant group of writers from all genres supporting each other and honing their craft. With over 100 members, the group welcomes writers from the region and beyond, with many virtual events that make it easy to participate and benefit from both the community and the expertise of guest presenters.
Experts often say writers should focus on what they know best. For McGugan, those subjects are business, travel, and people. As an author, he aims to share his experiences, insights, and perspectives through suspense stories crafted to entertain readers around the world—one reader at a time.
To learn more about Gary D. McGugan and his work, visit: https://www.garydmcguganbooks.com/ 
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
About "When Power Fails" and the inspiration behind the story
Corporate power clashes with organized crime.
Real-world corporate insights inspire plot.
Suzanne's complex leadership and relationships.
Global settings enhance story’s authenticity.
Cybersecurity threats heighten digital tension.
Ethics and trust drive corporate drama.
What's next for Gary D. McGugan?
WHEN POWER FAILS
Suzanne Simpson thinks she has pulled off the biggest acquisition of her career, catapulting Multima Corporation into the upper echelons of international business.But did she? Will her AAA-rated company get the $6 Billion loan it desperately needs? And why did strangers flee from her mountain home in the darkness of night only days after she signed the deal?When Power Fails pits a powerful woman leading a successful global supermarket chain against nefarious forces that seek to ravage both the company’s resources and its reputation. From high-stakes borrowing to threats of crippling cyber security attacks, this story of human strengths and vulnerabilities sweeps across the globe like a violent tornado sucking in people, corporations and governments.In vibrant cities like Singapore, San Francisco and Atlanta, the picturesque Laurentian Mountains of Quebec, and Dubrovnik in Croatia, Suzanne Simpson battles those who seek to destroy her company. Will she and her company survive?
CONNECT WITH GARY D. MCGUGAN!
Website:  https://www.garydmcguganbooks.comMonthly Blog: https://www.garydmcguganbooks.com/rendezvous-blogFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/gary.d.mcgugan.booksTwitter:  https://twitter.com/GaryDMcGuganInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/authorgarydmcgugan
 

"Child Protection: Behind Closed Doors" by Jo Cooling

The life of Jo Cooling is like living in a theme park: one minute, it’s like riding a roller coaster, baking cupcakes, cookies, and slices. With a kitchen covered with chocolate, flour, and cooking utensils. Also trying to develop new tastes and ideas for her growing baking business.
Sometimes, she feels like she travels through life in a Dodge ’em car. All the while, she works to complete two novels while caring for two Cavoodles, who believe their mother was placed on this earth purely to play with them 24 hours a day.
But no matter how out of control her life can be at times, eventually, she ends up sailing around on the Walt Disney teacup ride on top of the world. However, when she relaxes, the Cavoodles see this as an opportunity to snuggle on Mum’s lap.
Jo’s work career has been just as colorful as her current life. She has worked in horse and car racing, sold lingerie, designed websites, been a Personal Assistant, and worked as a Law Clerk.
Jo looks at life like a box of chocolates: each day unwraps a new layer, revealing unexpected flavors and textures.
You can learn more about Jo Cooling and her work at jocooling.com
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
About "Child Protection" and the inspiration for writing the book
Misconceptions about child protection work
Challenges and Cultural Issues
Injecting humor into a serious issue
The most pressing issues today
Long term solutions
What's next for Jo Cooling?
CHILD PROTECTION: BEHIND CLOSED DOORS
My journey started with a tragedy, which led me to study youth suicide and the impact this has on young people and their families. I was shocked to discover how many young people fell through the cracks of our broken mental health system. Furthermore, young people were also falling through the cracks of many systems, including Child Protection.If you think you know what Child Protection is all about, think again. This is a behind-the-scenes look at what really happens when the public is not watching or listening.

"A Pyrrhic Victory: Volume III: Fate" by Ian Crouch

Ian Crouch is a doctor living in Adelaide, South Australia. He has always lived there, apart from one year spent working in England in the early days. His books are the result of a lifelong fascination with Greek and Roman history. He is the great good fortune to live with a wonderful woman in a country at peace.
You can learn more about Ian Crouch and his work at theshapingofdestiny.com.
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION:
About "A Pyrrhic Victory" and the inspiration behind the trilogy.
Balancing historical accuracy with narrative storytelling
Research!
Pyrrus as a great historical figure.
The meaning of "a Pyrrhic victory"
The role of fate
What's next for Ian Crouch?
A PYRRHIC VICTORY: VOLUME III: FATE
In 279 BC, Pyrrhus has just won the bloody battle of Asculum against the Romans in the battle that gave rise to the expression – “A Pyrrhic Victory” – one that comes at such a great cost that the victory may not have been worth the ordeal that was suffered.While punished, the power of the legions has not been broken. The road to Rome is still barred to Pyrrhus. His peace terms are again rejected.He must gather greater strength to break the deadlock, and accepts the invitation of the powerful Greek cities in Sicily to lead them against the invading Carthaginians. In return, they offer him their support in his war against Rome.Pyrrhus was described by Hannibal as the finest commander the world had seen, after Alexander himself.

"How to Write a Book in 48 Hours" by Dale L. Roberts

Dale L. Roberts is a self-publishing advocate, award-winning author, and renowned video creator. With over 50 publications, he has become an authority in self-publishing, leading him to create his own YouTube channel, Self-Publishing with Dale, regarded as one of the premier information resources in the indie publishing community. Dale lives in Columbus, Ohio, with his wife Kelli and two rescue cats, Auggie and Allie.
You can learn more about Dale L. Roberts and his work at selfpublishingwithdale.com
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
About "How to Write a Book in 48 Hours" and the inspiration for writing the book
Balancing the need for speed with maintaining quality writing.
Timelines and Outlines
Editing and Proofreading
Marketing and Independent Publishing
Self Publishing with Dale
What's Next for Dale L. Roberts?
HOW TO WRITE A BOOK IN 48 HOURS
It’s going to be a best seller……if you can only figure out how to write the book.What does it take to self-publish?Dale L. Roberts is a fitness author who has published over 50 titles. He’s been a tireless advocate for learning to do it yourself. His YouTube channel is in the top-50 for authors, and he’s written this book to teach you what you need to know to succeed with your book.You’ll learn:Setting Your Timeline
Two Great Ways to Produce Content
An Efficient Outlining Method
Editing and Proofing Your Book
Publishing Options
And much more
In this straightforward, easy-to-digest, book, getting that great idea from mind to market will be a snap. Are you ready to begin?You’ll love these concise lessons, because writing and publishing a book is much simpler than you imagine.Get started now.
CONNECT WITH DALE L. ROBERTS!
Website - http://selfpublishingwithdale.com
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/selfpublishingwithdale
Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/stores/Dale-L.-Roberts/author/B00KUAL3NS
Discord – https://dalelinks.com/discord
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/selfpubwithdale
Facebook Group Self-Publishing Books - https://www.facebook.com/groups/selfpublishingbooks
Twitter – https://twitter.com/selfpubwithdale
TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@selfpubwithdale
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/selfpubwithdale/

"Your Move: The Girl in the Park" by Warwick Wood

Warwick Wood was born and raised in Sydney, Australia. From a very early age he developed an interest in all things creative. From age five, he would spend hours drawing and making up stories.
Warwick left school in year 10 to pursue a career in art. After graduating from college, he was employed as a commercial artist before joining an advertising agency where he became an art director. A decade later he began his own graphic design and marketing agency where, apart from being the owner, he was responsible for concept and copywriting. He began writing novels in 2014.
Warwick is married with two daughters and still lives in Sydney.
You can learn more about Warwick Wood and his work at: www.warwickwoodauthor.com.  
Instagram: @warwickwood_author Instagram: @warwickwood_art
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
About "Your Move: The Girl in the Park" and the inspiration behind the story
Blending genres and letting the story unfold organically
Writing in two different time periods authentically
Capturing the reader with visually rich and descriptive prose
Character development
Storytelling approach to incorporating different themes.
What's next for Warwick Wood?
YOUR MOVE: THE GIRL IN THE PARK
A game of chess. The sacrifice of a queen.
In London, 1973, two strangers sit across from each other in a park playing a game that will change both their lives forever.
One simple gambit will draw both Evelyn Copeland, a researcher, and Krystyna Zygalska, daughter of a Polish diplomat, into a labyrinth of secrets, betrayal and death, as conflicting realities lead to the uncovering of an event that occurred twenty-eight years earlier in 1945. An event that one person will go to any lengths to keep buried forever.

"Chasing Shadows" by Lauren Gouin

Lauren Gouin is a Canadian poet, screenwriter/director for TV and film, script editor, and storytelling consultant. Her poetry uses rhythm and rhyme to narrate her inner-most contemplations.
You can learn more about Lauren Gouin and her work at https://laurengouin.com.
 
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION:
About "Chasing Shadows" and the inspiration behind the collection
Imagery and Shadows
Vulnerability, expression/crafting and going from raw emotions to polished verse
Life and relationships. Introspection and social reflection
Poetry Reading
What's next for Lauren Gouin
 
CHASING SHADOWS
This book spans five chapters, walking through the cloudy and uncertain terrain of various forms of heartache and repair. When the ground beneath you cracks, it can crumble even harder; when the next step feels like a mountain, your path can seem never ending. And that is just it: it is and it isn't. Keep going.

"This Is My Worst Nightmare: Please Be Nice to Me" by Sofia Pires Bacquedano

Sofia Pires Baquedano is a Brazilian-Spanish writer and filmmaker. She currently is a film student in university in Brazil, and holds a certificate from the New York Film Academy in Los Angeles. She is passionate about the importance of imagery and beauty in a scene, both on-screen and on-paper. She grew up between Brazil and Spain. "This is My Worst Nightmare: Please Be Nice to Me" is her first novel.
To learn more about Sofia and her work visit: https://sofiabaquedano.com
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION:
About "This is My Worst Nightmare: Please Be Nice to Me" and the inspiration for the story
Writing a non-linear plot
The dynamics of a Trio in relationships
How the author's filmmaking career complements her storytelling
Research, writing, challenges and triumphs in the creative process
What's next for Sofia Bacquedano?
THIS IS MY WORST NIGHTMARE: PLEASE BE NICE TO ME
"We have the dire need to love. To make our lives gorgeous and fulfilling, to love and live and be happy in spite of the absurdness of it all."Sunny is a high school teacher in her late twenties navigating the hospitalization of her best friend Charlie. As a narrator who feels like an observer in her own life, Sunny examines what her life without Charlie might have been like and what life with him has meant for her. The story moves through time non-linearly, exploring Charlie’s family, his and Sunny’s mutual friend Louis, and Sunny’s past and present.Mourning for someone who is still alive and a past that has been left unresolved, Sunny tells her story, straying away from the darkest aspects of the past with witty comic relief. this is my worst nightmare, please be nice to me is a tale of love, its pains and joys, belonging, and finding trouble in one’s brain, whether literally or figuratively.

“Smelling Daisies” by Elysia Stevens with Mark Stevens

Elysia Stevens is a big fan of rom-coms, which will not be a surprise after you read Smelling Daisies. Most would describe her as eccentric in her personality, which really stands out in her choice of attire. She loves to wear fun socks, and every Friday she celebrates "Fabio Friday" by wearing a Fabio T-shirt for all to enjoy (she loves Fabio!).💛
Thankfully, her husband, Mark Stevens, has a lot of patience because she can't sit still for more than five minutes at a time and always has her head in the clouds. He has been her partner in life for over eighteen years, and there is nothing they can't and don't tackle together. Her husband's taste generally ranges from Stephen King to classic literature, but being the great guy he is, he not only read her rom-com novel but also co-authored it with her! Unfortunately, he still doesn't understand the appeal of a good naughty scene in a book, but she won't hold that against him.
You can learn more about Elysia, Mark and their work at https://elysiamarkstevensbooks.ca 
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
About "Smelling Daisies" and the inspiration for the story.
Co-authoring a book with your spouse
Discussion about Daisy and some other key characters
Exploring different themes in time travel/romance/historical fiction and more
What about the kilts?
What's next for Elysia and Mark Stevens?
SMELLING DAISIES
Whenever things seem to fall apart around Daisy, romance novels are her way of escaping. When immersed in a novel, she can imagine herself in the story as the lead female character. Still, the difference between her and the typical female character in her novels is that she is not your average damsel in distress.Daisy was raised by a military father who ensured his daughter knew survival skills and how to protect herself. Following in her beloved father's footsteps, Daisy joined the army and met Justin. Eventually, Daisy's dreams would come true. While on a decompression stop after a deployment overseas, she finds herself at the Lachlan Castle in Scotland. There, she is thrown back in time to the era she loves to read about, but things are nothing like she imagined.When Daisy befriends a bonnie Scottish lass, she finds herself in a haven under the roof of the girl's brother, a laird named Alick. It becomes clear that the laird is constantly challenged by the many nuances of Daisy's status as a modern-day female soldier as she attempts to navigate the dangerous life in medieval Scotland. While trying her best to fit in, Daisy stumbles upon a psychotic baron named Thomas, who loves to torture women and is fascinated with her.Both Laird Alick and Baron Thomas want to tame the lioness in Daisy but for different reasons. But Daisy is ill-prepared for medieval love or warfare and must train her heart and head to face what's coming next.

"The Falls" by Janet Macreery

Janet R. Macreery is the author of the multi-award-winning historical fiction adventures A Little Wicked and A Little Noble as well as her new release The Falls. She explores the United States and Europe for inspiration and research as well as her quest to find the ultimate hot chocolate.
You can learn more about Janet and her work at https://janetmacreery.wordpress.com/
TOPICS OF CONVERSATION
About "The Falls" and the inspiration behind the story
Life as the only child in a remote fishing camp
Writing for a Middle Grade audience
Research and the Alaskan Wilderness
What's next for Janet Macreery?
THE FALLS
In 1953, 11-year-old Monty and her widowed father move to an Alaskan fishing camp. As the only child there, Monty navigates friendships, bullies, and the dangers of the wilderness. She learns about the beauty and peril of nature from various adults, while one fishing guide believes children don't belong at the camp. Through her experiences, Monty and her father confront themes of risk, loss, and survival in the Alaskan wilderness.
CONNECT WITH JANET MACREERY!
Janet R. Macreery (wordpress.com)
Janet Macreery 🦋 (@JanetMacreery) / X
Janet Macreery | LinkedIn
https://www.facebook.com/JanetMacreery
https://www.instagram.com/janetmacreery/
Link to the Reader Views review: https://www.readerviewskids.com/the-falls-macreery/