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writerchristophfischer

Monthly Archives: November 2015

*Willkommen* …*Welcome*!

30 Monday Nov 2015

Posted by Christoph Fischer in Uncategorized

≈ 2 Comments

Vera Komnig

No. 406

Inspiriert von der momentanen Flüchtlingskatastrophe, all dem Leid, den Vorurteilen, den Ängsten, die dort sagen, es käme Unheil auf die Länder zu, die den Flüchtlingen neue Heimat bieten…ebenso ist es möglich, dass die neuen Kulturen eine Bereicherung sind in all ihren unterschiedlichen Farben und Gutes aus dem erwächst, was sich gerade in vielen Ländern dieser Welt abspielt,vor allem scheint es mir ein Gebot der Menschlichkeit zu sein, den Mitmenschen in Not eine helfende Hand zu reichen.

Was wir derzeit erleben sehe ich als Chance und Herausforderung zugleich und eine so bezeichnete “Flutwelle an Flüchtlingen” suggeriert eine überwältigende Katastrophe, wo es doch nur eine Welle im unendlichen Ozean des Seins ist.

Wir, die wir satt und friedlich in unserem Heim sitzen müssen keine Angst haben vor den Menschen in nasser Kleidung, ohne Schuhen an den nackten Füssen und mit kaum mehr als Hoffnung auf ein Über-Leben im Gepäck.
Eines…

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Friday: The 13th Question with Christoph Fischer

30 Monday Nov 2015

Posted by Christoph Fischer in Uncategorized

≈ 4 Comments

MDellert-dot-Com

Christoph Fischer, author of "Luck of the Weissensteiners" and the forthcoming "Ludwika" Christoph Fischer, author of “Luck of the Weissensteiners” and the forthcoming novel, “Ludwika.”

Since I set out on my Adventures in Indie Publishing, I’ve had the honor of getting to know a great many Indie Authors through social media, book events, conferences, and workshops. Although I’m a fantasy writer myself, I read a broad cross-section of genres, and one of those Indie Authors who has particularly captured my imagination has been Christoph Fischer. A historical fiction writer whose work is anything but dry and fact-riddled, his work features complex and multifaceted characters, deft prose-work, and a clean, clear writing style. When I learned that he had a new project coming out soon, I leaped at the chance to get a little sneak peek.

Christoph, thanks so much for taking the time for this interview. I’m really glad to have you here on The 13th Question. I’m eager…

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Review: “Trouble Finding Blondie” by Mimi Marten

30 Monday Nov 2015

Posted by Christoph Fischer in Uncategorized

≈ 3 Comments

27218734“Trouble Finding Blondie” by Mimi Marten is a noteworthy book. While on the surface somewhat of a love triangle spread across various cities with a lot of back and forth, there is much more to the story and the characters. Can old lovers reconnect and rekindle their romance or has too much time passed? The thought that went into the character creation and their depth reminded me pleasantly of one of my favourite books: “The Unbearable Lightness of Being” by Milan Kundera. Not in the sense of imitation but in the sense that it uses similar sharp observation of human beings and the same moral questioning.
Enjoyable and easy to read all the same this is a pleasant read and an impressive debut novel.

The book on Amazon US and Amazon UK 

14545320Bio:

I was born in the former Czechoslovakia, behind the Iron Curtain, and under the Communist regime. I grew up with stories from grandparents who survived both World Wars. I was surrounded by boys, naturally turning into a rebellious tomboy. That trade carried me through life, and everyone close to me knows not to dare me.

I have been poor, and I have been rich. I have lived in many countries with every color and nationality imaginable. I was raised a Christian, but I’m more spiritual than religious. I’m fascinated by the human body and the mind. Philosophy and psychology are my passions. Interestingly enough, the majority of my heroes are male. Somehow though, I keep writing about strong women.

The older I get, the less I know. It must be wisdom. Keep in mind, I’m still just a work in progress. I’m an organized freak, a minimalist, a passionate reader, and an expert gourmet. I love life, travel, my two amazing boys, my partner, and people in my tribe with the same vibe. I’m truly blessed.

I live in paradise with the amazing ocean views, mountains, and rainbows of Maui. Even after 20 years, I don’t take it for granted. I wake up every morning thanking God for another day.
Like any survivor, when you know hunger and meet death… you don’t sweat the small stuff.
I believe laughter is the original Prozac, and my drugs of choice are coffee and wine.

Why do I write? I have three lifetimes worth of stories from different continents and a long list of amazing characters. Some of them finally made it onto the pages. This is my debut novel….

Review: “Spanish Bay” by Hans M. Hirschi

29 Sunday Nov 2015

Posted by Christoph Fischer in Uncategorized

≈ 4 Comments

26699428“Spanish Bay” by Hans M. Hirschi is a wonderful story. I hope we will see more of that type and more by that author in the future.
Neil suffers from “Kugelberg-Welander” Syndrome, a muscular disease that forces him to use a wheelchair. When the story begins we witness him being bullied and I had pre-conceptions about where the book would go. I was very wrong. Neil meets handsome Chris, who helps him up, and it doesn’t take long before the two men start dating.
There is the first great part of the story: The illness and the gay issue are briefly addressed but then this is part of the narrative and almost secondary. Although these can’t be taken out of the equation, what happens then has little to do with it.
The book follows their relationship and further life, touching upon a lot of other issues that affect them and their families, like any other.
Sometimes it all sounds too easy how problems can get solved, at others not at all. Overall though the book remains a happy read and one that I hope many will pick up. Another reviewer used the term “unconventional happy ending” and I truly believe that the world needs a lot more of those. We need to accept that many forms of happiness exist and in that, the novel is important beyond its pure story as it might provide a point of reference and a role model for a path less travelled.
Fortunately the book is well written and deserves merit without the wider issues I have put in this review.

The book on Amazon Uk and Amazon US

website
http://www.hirschi.se5417370 873603

Born and raised in Switzerland, Hans graduated from High School in Arizona, worked for several years in the Swiss financial industry before pursuing his university studies in Zurich and Gothenburg.

His majors include literature, linguistics & social sciences.

Hans self-published his first book with poetry and a short story in 1991.

Nine years later, he followed up with a professional book on e-learning pedagogy and in 2010 his book “Common Sense” was published.

He’s published six novels so far. Detailed info can easily be found here, below.

Readfreely Top 50 Books 2015: I’ve made it to the next round

29 Sunday Nov 2015

Posted by Christoph Fischer in Uncategorized

≈ 14 Comments

The Gamblers by Christoph FischerTHE GAMBLERS and CONDITIONED both made it to the next round in the
READ FREELY TOP 50 BOOKS OF 2015

http://www.readfree.ly/indie50-vote-2015/

Over the past month, over a thousand book lovers visited www.readfree.ly to nominate what they consider The Best Indie Books of 2015.

Over the next three weeks, ardent readers will be voting to whittle that shortlist from 100 to 50. A lot of great books have been nominated this year. Do check them out.

THANK YOU all who have helped me getting there.CONDITIONED COVER for cover reveal

THE GAMBLERS are shortlisted in the thriller category 

and

CONDITIONED in the literary category.

Please consider voting for them. You can vote three times in each category

The next round is open until Dec 19th, so expect more posts like this.
images (15)

Many thanks 🙂Author Christoph Fischer

Saturday Historical Novelist Interview with Mansel Jones

28 Saturday Nov 2015

Posted by Christoph Fischer in Uncategorized

≈ 2 Comments

writerchristophfischer

9780956690913Please welcome Mansel Jones, another Welsh writer of historical novels. Please tell us a little about yourself as writer and as person.

I am married with two children. One of my main interests is social history and my books reflect that interest. My first article on social history was published in 1989 and I have written regularly since then.

Why did you choose to write historical fiction?

Because of my love of history, especially medieval history. I live near the deserted medieval town of Kenfig and it seemed natural to locate my first novel there.

What in particular fascinates you about the era(s) you write about?

I suppose my fascination developed from childhood stories of knights in shining armour, and from visiting castles with my parents. As an adult, I’m more interested in the nitty-gritty of daily life in the medieval era, of the lives of peasant families and the…

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Saturday Historical Novelist Interview with Mansel Jones

28 Saturday Nov 2015

Posted by Christoph Fischer in Uncategorized

≈ 4 Comments

9780956690913Please welcome Mansel Jones, another Welsh writer of historical novels. Please tell us a little about yourself as writer and as person.

I am married with two children. One of my main interests is social history and my books reflect that interest. My first article on social history was published in 1989 and I have written regularly since then.

Why did you choose to write historical fiction?

Because of my love of history, especially medieval history. I live near the deserted medieval town of Kenfig and it seemed natural to locate my first novel there.

What in particular fascinates you about the era(s) you write about?

I suppose my fascination developed from childhood stories of knights in shining armour, and from visiting castles with my parents. As an adult, I’m more interested in the nitty-gritty of daily life in the medieval era, of the lives of peasant families and the attitudes of the time.

Tell us about the concept behind your books. How did you get the idea?

My initial idea was to write a story set in medieval Kenfig. Research added layer upon layer until I realised that I needed sixty chapters and multiple viewpoints to tell the tale. The research suggested many of the plotlines, so I just had to join the dots and construct a cohesive whole.

What is your life like outside of writing?

I enjoy music, sport, reading…conventional things. And, of course, my family

Who would you like to invite for dinner?

A medieval peasant family. I would love to talk with them about their life and times.

What song would you pick to go with your book?tangwstyl

For Tangwstyl, I think something like Chevalier Mult Estes Guariz would go well.

Did anyone influence you / encourage you to become a writer?

Writing seemed a natural thing to do. Subsequently, I’ve discovered that my material grandfather and a long-lost uncle enjoyed writing.

How did you come up with your stories?

Mainly through research. My stories are strongly based on research; they combine fictional and factual elements.

Which characters is your favourite?

The villains tend to be the most fun to write, though the characters who have a strong  sense of social justice appeal to me too.

Are you like any of the characters (and how so)?

I think my Arthur in Pendragon is an attractive character. It would be nice to think that he is based on me, but that is pure fantasy!

Were the plot and subplots completely planned from the start or did they change during the process, and if so, how?

The first outline of Tangwstyl featured a pregnant woman stealing a cow. The pregnant woman and the cow remained in the story, but the plot went in a completely different direction.

Tell us one odd thing about you and one really mundane thing.

I was born on the tenth day of the tenth month at ten past ten. I love the music and lyrics of Al Stewart.

Who are your favourite independent writers? shutterstock_151668872_kindlephoto-141291821

I have to say, my friend and colleague, Hannah Howe. I think her books are outstanding in that they are easy to read, yet contain complex characters who are three-dimensional. The mystery element in her stories is always strong, yet the emotional aspect of the books lingers with me. I believe that Hannah Howe is one of our finest writers and she deserves a wider readership.

Who are your favourite authors?

As a teenager I read Alistair MacLean. Later, I discovered Walter Scott, George Elliot, Len Deighton, Ken Follett, amongst others.

What is your favourite book?

Ivanhoe by Walter Scott had a big influence on my novel Tangwstyl.

What (not who) would you like to take to a lonely island?
library-425730__180
The National Library of Wales (!)

Tell us about your other books?

A History of Kenfig was well received by general readers and academics. The aim with A History of Kenfig was to write a book for people who only have a casual interest in history, something to enlighten and entertain. Pendragon is my attempt to portray the real Arthur of history. Some people argue against Arthur’s existence, but I’m very proud of that book.

How do you handle criticism of your work? 9780956690920

I know the strengths and weaknesses of my work, so negative reviews are not too troublesome. I do get lost though when people complain about the Welsh names, places etc in my books. My books are set in medieval Wales…

 

Web links

http://jonesthebook.com

http://manseljones.com

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Mansel-Jones/e/B0044RKLZO/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1447080922&sr=1-2-ent

http://www.amazon.com/Mansel-Jones/e/B0044RKLZO/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1447080922&sr=1-2-ent

Gallery

Announcing the winner of The Max Power Indie Author Story-teller Award 2015

27 Friday Nov 2015

Posted by Christoph Fischer in Uncategorized

≈ 10 Comments

This gallery contains 13 photos.

Originally posted on Maxpower's Blog:
As a writer from Ireland, I understand the value and importance of the great art of…

Presenting… Mary Smith! | Kev’s Great Indie Authors

27 Friday Nov 2015

Posted by Christoph Fischer in Uncategorized

≈ 2 Comments

Following my review this morning I thought I better re-blog this interview with her

Source: Presenting… Mary Smith! | Kev’s Great Indie Authors

Presenting… Mary Smith!

09/11/2015 Authorby Kev.Posted in Kev’s Author Interviews & Guest Authors.

Kev’s Author Interviews Presents… 

Mary Smith

Mary Smith - web ready


Scotland

 

I was born on the island of Islay, home of some of the best whisky in the world but moved to the mainland to Dumfries & Galloway when I was seven. Finished school and had the longest gap year in history which lasted about 30 years while I travelled a bit in Europe, lived in England where I worked in a factory, was a child-minder and then went to work for Oxfam UK before a chance holiday in Pakistan led to a job there followed by a job in Afghanistan. I returned to Scotland when my son was five and when he started school I finally went to university.

drunk chickens - web readyNo More Mulberries - web readyI had started selling articles while working abroad and have continued as a journalist – sometimes freelance, sometimes staff – ever since. ‘Drunk Chickens and Burnt Macaroni: Real Stories of Afghan Women’ (a title which seriously curtails tweets) is a memoir from my time in Afghanistan. I wanted to write a novel and worked on what became No More Mulberries while doing a Masters degree in Creative Writing at Glasgow University.

Kev: Tell us more about your book, Mary.

No More Mulberries, is not my latest book, but is perhaps the one which is most important to me.

No More Mulberries is a novel set in Afghanistan. Scottish-born midwife, Miriam loves her work at a health clinic in rural Afghanistan and the warmth and humour of her women friends in the village, but she can no longer ignore the cracks appearing in her marriage. Her doctor husband has changed from the loving, easy-going man she married and she fears he regrets taking on a widow with a young son, who seems determined to remain distant from his stepfather.

No More Mulberries - web ready

When Miriam acts as translator at a medical teaching camp she hopes time apart might help her understand the cause of their problems. Instead, she must focus on helping women desperate for medical care and has little time to think about her failing marriage. When an old friend appears, urging her to visit the village where once she was and her first husband had been so happy, Miriam finds herself travelling on a journey into her past, searching for answers to why her marriage is going so horribly wrong.

Her husband, too, must deal with issues from his own past – from being shunned by childhood friends when he contracted leprosy to the loss of his first love.

Kev: Who or what influenced you to write it?

The women of Afghanistan were the main influence both for this book and for Drunk Chickens and Burnt Macaroni: Real Stories of Afghan Women, which is an account of my time working in Afghanistan. I was there for several years, from the year the Soviets left right up to when Taliban were at the gates of Kabul. I was with a small health organisation, working mainly with women living in rural areas and women who had fled from the bombing of Kabul. These women were not, as the western media tended to portray them, passive victims, repressed by their menfolk. I wanted people in the west to meet and get to know the women who became my friends. I write the non-fiction book (at their request, I might say) and then, thinking that not everyone will pick up a non-fiction book, I decided to write the novel.

Kev: Did you do any specialised research for your story?

I have always kept a diary recording day-to-day happenings so I had a lot of material but I did have to research to check facts about political leaders, the chronology of events and be sure I was describing the correct way to prepare for Islamic prayers.

Kev: What challenges did you face while writing the story?

The character of Iqbal challenged me! In fact, he made me write a different book from the one I’d set out write. Mostly, the story is told from Miriam’s POV and Iqbal was not being shown in a good light at all. Then, he started muttering in my ear demanding his side of the story be told. As soon as I gave him his voice, I began to understand a lot more about him and why he acted the way he did. I think the reader can have much more empathy with him now.

Kev:  Who is the protagonist?

Miriam.

Kev: What would you say is the protagonist’s greatest weakness or obstacle and why?

Her main problem was not letting go of the past – and of viewing that past and her first marriage through rose-tinted glasses.

Kev: What would you say is the main antagonist’s greatest strength?

Love

Kev: Could you provide a short passage from your book to give us a taster?

No More Mulberries - web readyOn moonless nights…Constellations her father had taught her to recognise when she was a child – Orion, the Plough, the Sven Sisters – demonstrated proudly that here, they possessed far more jewel-bright stars than she had ever seen in Scotland. Tonight, though, the moon, almost full, had risen dimming the stars’ brightness, silvering the jagged peaks of the mountains that kept the valley safe. ‘Our moon,’ she whispered. ‘Oh, Jawad, what have I done?’

‘Miriam?’ She jumped at the sound of Iqbal’s voice close behind her. Had he heard her whisper?

She turned to face him relieved to see he was smiling. ‘Children ready for bed?’ she asked. ‘I’ll go say goodnight to them.’

He shook his head, coming to stand next to her, saying softly, ‘Ruckshana’s already asleep. Farid is learning his spelling for tomorrow.’ He reached for her hand. ‘Miriam, look, I suppose I should have mentioned it to you – cancelling the boys’ lessons.’

‘Mentioned it?’ She snatched her hand away, the need for calm forgotten. Tilting her head to look up at him, she asked, ‘What about discussing it with me?’

Kev: Do you use some kind of formula when you write?

Not really. I have a rough idea of how the story will unfold – but that, I’ve learned, can change from my original idea.

Kev: Preference for writing: Day or Night?

Late evening and if it’s going well then I will happily write into the night. I’d love to be one of those writers who can get up at the crack of dawn and start putting the words down. Not going to happen.

Kev: What is your editing process?

Get the story down first – though I do often edit what I last wrote before continuing. I do think, though, I need to get it all written before starting on the proper edits. I’ll rewrite (more than once) before letting anyone else see it and then send it to a professional editor.

Kev: Who creates your book covers?

The cover of No More Mulberries was created by a graphic designer; the cover of Drunk Chickens, which is published by a small independent publishing company, was created in-house.

Kev: How do you promote your work?

How long do you want this interview to be? Talking about promotion could be an entire interview on its own. Okay, so, first, find nice bloggers like you who want to help promote indie authors!

I belong to a wonderful group called eNovelAuthorsatWork. The founder of the group, Jackie Weger, has gathered together around 50 authors who all believe in paying it forward. This means when any of us has a sale promo on or has received a great review we will share to our respective followers on social media. We share any info we find which might be useful to others in the group. The website (http://enovelauthorsatwork.com) is an amazing resource for indie writers with information on promotion sites which really do work, reviewers, articles, blog posts. Any indie author wanting advice on promotion should check it out.

I blog about writing-related things on a blog shared with four other writers in the UK. I use social media but I also use local media.

Kev: What advice would you offer to new authors?

Pay it forward. If you want support to promote your book, repay the favour. If you find a review blog which agrees to review your book, have the courtesy to read the reviews of other authors’ books. Engage with people – don’t just get your book reviewed and disappear. If people comment on the review, reply to them. Build relationships. We are all in this together and should support each other.

Kev: Which two social media platforms do you use the most and why?

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1v1de29  and Twitter:https://twitter.com/marysmithwriter

I like them and am learning, slowly, to use them more effectively. I still have a long way to go, though. Facebook is a brilliant way to keep in touch with friends in Afghanistan and although I post stuff about my books I use it much more as a social medium.

Recently, a presenter on BBC radio emailed to ask if I’d come in for an interview about my latest book (a local history book). I asked how he knew about it and he said he’d seen my tweet, clicked on the link to the blog and read it. Result!

Kev: Do you have a website? I do, though I’m ashamed to say I don’t update it as often as I should. www.marysmith.co.uk

Kev: Is there anything else you would like to add?

I think I’ve wittered on more than enough, Kev. Thank you so much for interviewing me. I really appreciate it.

Review: “No More Mulberries” by Mary Smith

27 Friday Nov 2015

Posted by Christoph Fischer in Uncategorized

≈ 13 Comments

18193388“No More Mulberries” by Mary Smith has been round the blogging world for a while and last week I finally got a chance to read it. I am pleased to say that it deserves all the praise it got.
A Scottish woman married to a man from Afghanistan is confronted with ‘his’ and his country’s culture, customes and loyalties in a story that touches upon the outer experience of the country as well as the inner and personal.
He disapproves of her English teaching of boys because of the implications this has for their reputation. Miriam finds herself challenged in many ways in her marriage, not just coming from her husband but also from her own past. Love and commitment issues are brilliantly placed into a remote rural location that imposes additional complications.
From a cultural perspective, this is sensitively written and provides excellent insights. As literary experience this is equally strong. Well chosen characters and plot lines make this a read very worthy of your time. Highly recommended.

Get the book on Amazon US and Amazon UK

5239367

 

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