Vocations, The Hammock & Verisimilitude All By: Heather Beck *Author Interview & E-Book Giveaway

Hey everyone. Author & Screenwriter Heather Beck has stopped by with a great Author Interview, and you all have a chance to win 3 of her books, in PDF format, so continue on reading below :)

Vocation Amazon

Description

Nothing stays the same forever...

A coming-of-age story that deals with the trials and tribulations of being in the late teens, Vocations describes the lives of three friends, Jeannie, Lila, and Pamela, and the events which draw them closer and pull them apart. Whether dealing with boys, friendships, or difficult decisions, Vocations takes an in-depth and honest look at the confusion one feels at this time in their life.

Verisimilitude Goodreads

Description

Jill always needs to know everything, so when suspicions arise about her boyfriend’s faithfulness, she takes control of the situation. Creating an intricate plan which involves their friends, Jill lies and deceives. When her ploy is discovered in the most humiliating way, she is forced to realize that her need for absolute certainty only results in loss.

The Hammock Goodreads

Description

Summer vacation gets a lot sweeter for Jade Addams when she meets the handsome and caring Russell. They quickly form a deep bond but it’s tested when a car accident causes a feud between their fathers. Jade and Russell’s secret is revealed when they fall asleep in a hammock and are awakened by her father. A physical fight occurs between Mr. Addams and Russell, furthering the rift between the neighbours. However, it’s Russell’s father who gives the gift of second chances when Mr. Addams has a heart attack. Some relationships truly are a Godsend…

Check Out My Interview With Heather!

Tell us a little about you : )

My name is Heather Beck, and I’m an Author/Screenwriter who has been writing professionally since the age of sixteen. My first book was published when I was nineteen years old. Since then I have written several more books. I recently received an Honors Bachelor of Arts from university where I specialized in English and studied an array of disciplines. Currently, I’m working on two young adult novels and have six anthologies slated for publication. As a screenwriter, I have multiple television shows and movies in development. My short films include Young Eyes, The Rarity and Too Sensible For Love. Besides writing, my greatest passion is the outdoors. I’m an award-winning fisherwoman and a regular hiker. My hobbies include swimming, playing badminton and volunteering with non-profit organizations.

What inspired you to become a writer?

I always knew I wanted to write. It’s in my blood, and it’s definitely my biggest passion. I have a great imagination when it comes to creating characters, plots and settings for stories, and I always have more ideas than I could ever execute into books. Due to this passion, I began seriously studying the publishing industry by reading books on the business, attending events, meeting other authors, and finally, visiting publishers’ websites and following their submission guidelines. I asked a lot of questions and pretty much learned through trial and error. There’s no one way to become a published author, but to all aspiring writers out there, keep this is mind: I started with no connections in this industry, so if I can do it, so can you!

Do you enjoy writing novels or film scripts? If both, why?

That’s such a tough question! I fell in love with writing books first and every time I receive one of my new books, I’m still excited. There is definitely anticipation to see the final product. I also love that, with books, the writer has a lot more control and can delve deeper into characters’ thoughts. Whereas, in scripts, writing inner dialogue and anything that isn’t visual is frowned upon. Writers also lose a certain amount of control in films simply because there are so many people involved. The large collaboration process of films can be positive though, especially when working with individuals who share your vision or even have ideas or ways to improve upon it. When comparing the cost differences between producing a book (especially an e-book) and a film, the book definitely comes out on top. For example, The Rarity cost the production company over $1000 per minute of screen time! Then again, there is something sublime about seeing your words come to life. In my mind, I enjoy and love writing books and films equally.

In general, while readers read your books, what messages do you want them to see?

Since I write a variety of genres for different age groups, I have several motives for writing. With The Horror Diaries, I want to promote imagination and exploration of the world around us, whether it be in your own backyard/neighborhood or even a different country. It’s about the love of adventure and excitement. For my teen readers, with such books as Vocations and the Syren Signature Series, I strive to be insightful about the human condition. It’s about discovering who you are and what you want to be in that moment. I always encourage originality and compassion. Finally, with my adult books, such as What Legends Are Made Of and Whispers In The Shadows, I want to express how important it is to keep dreaming and reaching for the stars. It’s about really engaging in life and never settling. Overall, if I had to choose just one message to share with my readers, it would be summed up nicely in this little quote, “Never cease to amaze”.

Where is your ultimate favorite place to write?

My favorite place to write is the outdoors, preferably on the dock at my cottage, at the beach, near water or in my backyard. I love being in nature and find it so inspirational. That’s where I am most happy and get my best ideas for books and screenplays. However, since writing comes very naturally to me, I believe I could write in most places.

What are you currently working on?

Most recently, my teen drama, Vocations, was re-released, and the fourth book in The Horror Diaries series, Supernatural, will be released this June. My short film, Circular – a chilling social commentary about war – will be filmed, as well as Witch’s Brew – a paranormal love story with some massive twists. Also, I’m working with a few production companies on different screenwriting projects. Finally, I’m currently writing Frostbitten, a young adult werewolf romance that I outlined years ago. Luckily, now seems like a perfect time for that genre.

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

My best advice for aspiring authors is to be hopeful yet realistic. The publishing industry can be brutal and making a living as a writer is extremely difficult. That being said, it’s definitely not impossible to be a successful writer. You must have an unwavering belief in your talent, be knowledgeable about the industry, have a hard work ethic and be wholly dedicated to your writing. I’d also advise aspiring authors to have a day job since breaking into this industry can take a long time. Additionally, education and experiences broadens one’s horizons, which ultimately helps to shape one’s writing.

Which Authors do you look up to?

I look up to Tennessee Williams and Jack London. I’ve read all of Williams’ plays and am amazed by his ability to be so blatant, accurate and compassionate about the human condition. He really gets to the core of what it means to be human, and he does so in a beautiful and entertaining way. In my own writing, I strive to achieve Williams’ signature feat. Regarding London, I am impressed by his depiction of the struggle between man and nature. This is a theme that has always interested me, probably due to my love of nature. London has helped to shape my goal of writing a great wilderness adventure.

What are your favorite genres to read?

When I was younger, my favorite genres to read were always unique teen dramas and scary stories. While at university, I started enjoying literary fiction. My reading preferences definitely influenced my own work. I write a lot of scary stories and unique teen dramas. Also, I often incorporate literary elements into my books for teens and adults.

Are you currently reading anything? What?

As awful as this sounds, I haven’t had a chance to read a book since university, and even then, that was only for school. Technically, I haven’t read a book recreationally for several years now. This is definitely not by choice, but rather due to circumstances, such as school and work commitments. However, as a fan of the television series, Pretty Little Liars, I just have to read Ali’s Pretty Little Lies. So, I guess I’m going to put some of my work on hold for a while!

Do you have a favorite film? What is it?

I love creature features, specifically Jurassic Park, because it’s such a unique idea that was well-executed. I also love Gremlins because it’s a terrific blend of horror and comedy, and Gizmo was so cute! Titanic is another favourite movie of mine because, in my opinion, it was flawless. My favourite romantic movie is definitely Dirty Dancing Havana Nights since I’ve always found the motif of forbidden love intriguing.

- Thank you so much for answering my Qs! ~Marissa

Thanks for having me on your blog, Marissa! Readers, thanks for checking out this interview, and please be sure to visit my website, http://heatherbeck.tripod.com/ for all the latest news. Also, check out my writer’s reel for clips from my films: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=td1lf3WwPVY&feature=player_embedded

Giveaway Details & Rules

- This is an International Giveaway!

- Ends March 13th!

- There Will Be 1 Winner, picked by Rafflecopter!

- 1 Winner will Receive All 3 Books that are seen above.

- I will be Checking the Entries Regularly, so if there is Cheating, those Entries Will be Disqualified! 

- As you submit Entries, be sure to use an Email that you use Daily, as that is how I will contact you, if you Win.

- You will have 48 hours to Respond, or I will have to Choose a New Winner! Check Your Spam Folders, just in case it goes in there.

- And Good Luck! :)

*Come back to this post, when the Giveaway is over, to see who won. I usually do Tweet as well*

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