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marcoujor: Interview with Author, Mary Craig

1/17/2016

24 Comments

 
Picturemarcoujor



​Curling up with a page-turning story is one of life's luxuries to me - the kind you can't put down no matter what the clock says.

"Meeting Lizbeth", Mary B. Craig's breakout novel, fits the bill in this category for me.

Craig weaves the stories of three generations seamlessly as the reader is immersed in Lizbeth's life ~ from when she was rocked in her Dad's arms as a baby.
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PictureCLICK THE PIC to get it from amazon.com



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Hoping I've piqued your interest to add this book to your library. I'm including the Amazon link, just in case...!

​"Meeting Lizbeth" is rife with skeletons in the closet ~ family secrets that span the generations. I was both shocked and intrigued at the twists and turns of this story of family dynamics at its finest.
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PictureCLICK THE PIC to get it from amazon.com

​"Light in the Trees" is a modern day fairy tale,  with appeal for all ages.  As author, Mary B. Craig, sprinkles life lessons of gentle kindness and consideration through this story, the colorful and magical illustrations make it come alive for the reader. 

 Ann is a little girl who feels different from the other kids because she wears glasses.  As I started wearing glasses in second grade, I was pulled into this story 'hook, line and sinker'.  I found myself looking out Ann's bedroom window right along with her and wondering about the lights in the trees.

Lest I give away the story, I'm sharing a link to Amazon...treat yourself and a child in your life to this whimsical fantasy.

PictureAuthor, Mary Craig
​

​Have you noticed that both of this month's featured books were written by my friend ~ author, Mary B. Craig?  As a matter of fact, both books were written and published in the Fall, 2015. 

I was honored when Mary recently took some time to virtually sit with me for an interview. Her conscientious dedication in connecting with me while hospitalized with pneumonia was 'above and beyond' duty and my expectations.

Hoping you enjoy hearing the back story on these books from Mary, as I did.


​Can you remind us of the titles of your books, Mary?

"Meeting Lizbeth" is my novel. "Light in the Trees" is my children's book.

Where did the idea come from for these books?

"Meeting Lizbeth" started out as a short story on HubPages.  It was so well received I wrote a part two, then three, then it started taking on a life of its own.

"Light in the Trees" was a response to a HubPages challenge by a friend, annart. That's why the little girl's name is Ann.  I thought it was the least I could do since her picture was my inspiration.


What genres do your books fall under? 

I guess romantic fiction for "Meeting Lizbeth". I see "Light in the Trees" as a read aloud for parents~ that way it can spark conversation.


Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?
 
Hmm, that's a good question.  I don't know the names of most modern actors and actresses that well, but here goes... Bradley Cooper as Tom, a main Character and lovable guy.  Lizbeth, Jennifer Lawrence, and Louise maybe Jessica Biel ~ Alice, Megan Fox.  Just some thoughts.

What is a one-sentence synopsis of your books? 

"Meeting Lizbeth" ~ a novel that moves back and forth in time to show you how Lizbeth came to be the woman she is.

​ "Light in the Trees" ~ the story of a little girl who finds more then just lights in the tree.


Are your books self-published or represented by an agency? 

Self-published.  Actually I really wanted to publish these books and due to life circumstances I thought this was the best way to go.  I wanted to hold my books in my hands.

How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscripts?  How did you juggle writing two books in one year?

I'm almost embarrassed to say that "Meeting Lizbeth" took six months, while "Light in the Trees" took two nights.

The juggling came with the editing. I had two different editors and a guardian angel ~ all who by the way were excellent.  There were a lot of back and forth emails and consults. (Mike Friedman was my guardian angel.)


What other books would you compare your stories to within your genre?

That's hard to say.  As a new writer I'm still trying to decide that myself.  Certainly not "Gone With the Wind" or "Fifty Shades of Gray".

Who or what inspired you to write these books?

I'm one of those people who always wanted to write a book, but didn't think it was possible. After four years of writing on Hub Pages I realized it was possible, I could write a book!  Then, as I said the inspiration presented itself to me and I ran with it.


What's next?  Working on any new books or ideas you can share with us?

No promises, but Lizbeth certainly has a future.

That's music to my ears, dear Mary.   I'm one of many readers who will be anxiously awaiting the sequel. For now, self care is your priority. Thanks for spending this time with me, Mary. And indeed you inspire me in every way.  
    

See you next week

Thank you for visiting today and getting acquainted with Mary's work.

Until next time, surround yourselves with people and things that inspire you.

mar   
24 Comments
Peg Cole link
1/17/2016 08:53:50 am

What an inspiration it is to read this inspiring review of Mary's books. It feels like we all grew up together in Hub Land as we developed the confidence to share our mutual dream of writing and publishing. After following the releases online, I can't wait to read the finished version of Meeting Lizbeth. Way to go!

Reply
Maria link
1/18/2016 07:36:52 am

Dear Peg,

I also get a surge of pride when dear friends publish their amazing works ~
It won't be long before I get to feature your breakout novel...👏

Love you and thanks for the visit, mar

Reply
Mike
1/17/2016 11:23:22 am

Hello mar. Great reviews. I have my copies of both titles. (Life has its rewards!) You did a wonderful job presenting Mary C.'s titles.

Reply
Maria link
1/18/2016 07:40:25 am

And you are our angel, dear Mike ~ in this case creating the book cover for "Meeting Lizbeth" and formatting/ publishing both books...

...thanks for this supportive comment.
Hugs, mar

Reply
femmeflashpoint link
1/17/2016 12:19:16 pm

Congratulations to Mary on her book releases and best wishes for her upcoming works too!

femmeflashpoint

Reply
Maria link
1/18/2016 07:42:52 am

Thanks for your visit and for all you do, dear femme.

Wishing you a peaceful week to come.

Reply
Mary link
1/17/2016 04:08:52 pm

Thank you for this lovely review and heartwarming introduction. You my dear, and all our friends on HP, were the inspiration to go ahead and write those books. A big thank you to all.

Reply
Maria link
1/18/2016 07:45:53 am

Wonderful to see you, dear Mary~ I'm thrilled that you're pleased with this post...

Wishing you much peace and the sense of accomplishment you truly deserve.

Love you, Maria

Reply
Theresa
1/17/2016 05:22:53 pm

Maria, You've done such a lovely job in highlighting Mary's books. Im so excited for her! I truly enjoy reading all of Mary's writing on HubPages and will certainly enjoy reading her novel. I know all of my grands are sure to enjoy her children's story. Hugs and blessings to all, Theresa

Reply
Maria link
1/18/2016 07:48:39 am

Dear Theresa,

Your support is delightful~ I know you will enjoy both of Mary's books as I am.

Have a blessed week. Love, Maria

Reply
Martie link
1/17/2016 07:42:59 pm

Congratulations, Mary! Writing a novel in only 6 months, and a children's book in 2 nights, requires a brilliant mind. This you are for sure. I enjoyed what I've read about Lisbeth in Hubpages and look forward to read the novel.

As always, Mar, you're the best interviewer on this planet. I look forward to the day when it will be my turn to be interviewed by you.

Lots of hugs,
Martie

Reply
Maria link
1/18/2016 07:52:07 am

Dear Martie,

I agree wholeheartedly with your thoughts about Mary.

I will be honored to feature YOUR breakout novel...and the beautiful woman behind the words.

Love and hugs to you, mar

Reply
Kimmie
1/18/2016 06:46:17 am

Congratulations to Mary on her new books. Thank you Maria for another wonderful interview.
Love and hugs
Kimmie

Reply
Maria link
1/18/2016 07:53:45 am

And thanks to you, dear Kimmie for your visit and kind support.

Have a lovely week. Hugs to you, mar

Reply
Sannel link
1/18/2016 07:26:30 am

Thank you Maria for an inspirational and very interesting review. Congratulations to Mary on her books. Wishing her all the best with the book sales and upcoming works.
Love and hugs,
Sannel

Reply
Maria link
1/18/2016 07:56:05 am

Lovely to see you, dear Sannel.

Your feedback is appreciated and as sweet as you. Love, Maria

Reply
Vicki
1/18/2016 08:49:13 am

So pleased to see this interview and know that Mary has made two great accomplishments in such a short time! Congratulations, Mary! Nice interview Maria.
Hugs,
Vicki

Reply
Maria link
1/20/2016 10:47:38 am

Thanks, dear Vicki~ you did a beautiful job editing "Light in the Trees " for Mary.

Have a peaceful day. Love, mar

Reply
Bill
1/18/2016 09:46:38 am

I love the interview, love the interviewer and love the interviewee..a whole lot of love wrapped up on this interview. Congratulations, Mary! Maria, well-done as always.

love,
bill

Reply
Maria link
1/20/2016 10:49:10 am

Who wouldn't love this comment~ thanks, dear Bill.

Reply
Shauna
1/19/2016 07:39:24 pm

I have read and love both of these books, although I read them as Mary published them on HubPages. Lizbeth had me looking forward to each episode and Light in the Trees was a delightful read.

I'm thrilled to know Lizbeth has more to share with us. I look forward to it.

My prayers and love are with Mary, a dear friend I met online and have grown to love.

Thank you for spotlighting her, Mar. And Mary... well, you know how I feel about you. I'm fighting the battle with you, my friend. You have lots of people on your side who support you and will help you "kick it to the curb" as our dear mutual friend Sunshine has so valiantly inspired us.

Reply
Maria link
1/20/2016 10:51:19 am

What a beautiful comment, dear Sha.

So happy Mary is visiting to see the love and support that surrounds her...

Love you so much, mar

Reply
Mary link
1/20/2016 09:17:37 am

Wow! How honored I am by all my friends. Each time I come back to read a comment I can feel the love. Thank you my friends.

Reply
Maria link
1/20/2016 10:53:13 am

Great, dearest Mary...you are precious to all of us...💞

Reply



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    marcoujor

    Something awaits us all.

    Know your possibilities.

    There is inspiration all around us--in those people and situations we encounter along life's way.

    Share your wonder with me as well.

    I treasure your comments.

    mar


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  • Home
  • BOOK SHOP
    • Kylie's Stories
    • Other books by Maria Jordan >
      • Mysterious & Miraculous Book I - News and Reviews
  • BLOGS
    • mar's Desk
    • Inspiration Station
    • Poetic Ponderings
    • marcoujor on Hubpages
  • I Recommend...
  • Contact Me