Guest Blogger: Monica Brinkman

Today I’d like to welcome new author Monica Brinkman as the special guest blogger here at Thoughts in Progress as she participates in a virtual book tour.

Monica’s book is called THE TURN OF THE KARMIC WHEEL. Here’s a brief blurb about the recently released book: "What goes around, comes around." Truer words were never spoken, as evidenced by the complex interactions and fates of the characters in "The Turn of The Karmic Wheel." When the residents of Raleigh begin to hear music and voices that aren't "there", and to receive frightening messages from no discernable source, it soon becomes apparent that changes must - and will - be made: to their everyday lives, to their relationships, to their bodies, and, most importantly, to their souls.

Monica joins us today to talk about what inspired her to write her book.

As most writers, I found myself interacting with other authors via the internet, reading their thoughts on publishing, form, genre, characterization, point of view and various other aspects to consider when writing a novel. 

I found one particular site, which I will refrain from mentioning due to the fact most of the authors on the site were quite informative and tactful when providing advice, where three so-called experts vehemently stated
·         Never place your books setting in a rural town within the Ozarks
·         Never mix genre
·         Never change Point of View

These ‘qualified’ writers continued their ‘advice’ with sarcasm and arrogance directed toward any small, rural town, making jest of the ‘country bumpkins,’ citing no reader would relate to country folks.

Remembrances filled my mind, for I grew up in the East Coast, relocated to the West Coast where I lived for many years and now reside in the Ozark region these pompous novelists mocked with such ease. In addition, who were they to put the readers of the world into some ‘readers’ rule box’ and tell them what they should enjoy. Hadn’t many authors changed point of view? Mixed genre was a form of writing many publishing houses welcomed with open arms. In addition, as to changing point of view, Sara Douglass and John Connolly have mastered this craft.

Rebel that I am when hearing mockery or information that didn’t set right in my mind, I vowed that my new book, THE TURN OF THE KARMIC WHEEL, would contain all three of the “never do” qualities. I had wished to write a book that would give others hope in these dismal times, entertain and keep a reader in suspense. What a perfect opportunity to embrace a story containing suspense, horror, the paranormal and spirituality; a book that would open the readers mind and leave them pondering the tale, long after being read.

So far, the reviews have been great and the feedback from the readers of the world fantastic.

Touché’, my three master authors! Our readers possess a much more open mind and intelligence than you gave them credit.

Monica, thanks for blogging here today. It’s sad that some authors believe small towns don’t make for wonderful book settings and that readers couldn’t relate to them. Wishing you much success with your book.

How do you feel about small town settings? Any problems reading and relating to those who live in small towns?