Interview - Amy Lignor the author of "Until Next Time"

The interview

1. Tell us something about yourself. When did your passion for writing begin?

I had to go on the worst family vacation when I was eight years old. We stayed at a home where the cat was in charge and everybody had to be in bed by 8:00 pm so the cat wasn’t disturbed. (LOL. Not kidding) That’s when I wrote, “My Life: A Comedy & A Tragedy” as a joke. For some reason, I could never stop writing after that. My mother is a career librarian so books were the ‘in’ thing in our house. No TV, movies or computers…so I had a passion for books and authors right from the very start! 

2. What inspired you to write this book?

When I was 13, I lost my grandfather who was my absolute best friend. Matthew - the warrior from Until Next Time - actually became what you would call an imaginary friend at that time. We spoke a lot about what he wanted to see down here, and helped me understand the grief and anger I was feeling abut losing a person who I truly loved. That’s when the angel/warrior team came to mind.

3. Is music part of your inspiration?

I LOVE music. I’m actually one of those odd people who can honestly say they like everything. From Broadway hits like “Phantom of the Opera,” to a  few country artists, to pop bands, rock-and-roll, and even Heavy Metal from the 1980’s - everything is an inspiration to me!

4. Do you see the world through new eyes since you became a writer?

I always, actually, saw the world with clear, unbiased eyes. I loved traveling. I wanted to see everything I possibly could and meet everyone I possibly could. I truly love the people I’ve come across in my lifetime and they each have their own emotions and stories to tell. I look at the world as an observer. I truly love witnessing everything it has to offer and it inspires me to write more.

5. What were the thoughts of the first person who read your book?

I actually gave it to a friend who was brutally honest. I never wanted people to just tell me, “Oh, that’s good,” and pat me on the back, because I really wanted to learn. I love learning new things from talented writers, so I need those suggestions and opinions to make the next tale even better. She actually loved the book, although thought I should cut down the beginning - which did happen before it was published. She was so supportive and inspiring, however, about how much she loved the tale, that it made me want to do a whole lot more with Emily and Matthew.

6. If in real life you could choose to be a fantasy character, what would it be? Why? 

I am a Harry Potter fan and I would LOVE to be Hermione. That girl was seriously intelligent. I also love that Cloak of Invisibility and the wands that protect and keep you safe - everything that Hogwarts had to offer, I  would absolutely love to have!

7. Got any other passion besides writing?

I love reading. I know that sounds boring, right? Reading and writing? But I love hearing and telling stories that entertain. I also love driving cross-country. As I said, I love seeing new things and meeting new people so that is a true passion for me. I hope one day to get across the ocean.

8. What advice would you give writers who are starting out? 

Do not…Do NOT give up! This is a seriously difficult industry and you receive a great deal of form responses from publishers and agents, etc. But if you have the story in you heart; if you believe in the story and truly love what you do - then writing is the career for you! And don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Just keep going!

9. A message to readers from Romania?

I am so honored that you’re reading Until Next Time and meeting Matthew and Emily. I want them to speak to every person in every country and offer them a tale that will not only inspire and offer faith when things get hard - but also offer the entertainment and romance of two souls who are unforgettable. So, thank you for being members of Team Matt, Team Jason or Team Emily. And, remember, Matthew gets his big spotlight on November 1st with Gilded Wings!

Summary

How does a girl choose between the one who steals her heart and the one who owns her soul?

Matt and Emily were created for a specific job. Raised and trained as the ultimate angel/warrior team, they are sent down to save, defend, judge and forgive, depending on the 'life' they've been assigned. What they don't realize is that the power of human emotions, such as love, anger, passion and fear can take over even the best of souls, causing them to make mistakes and follow paths that lead to confusion and heartache. 

When the reason for their training is finally revealed, the angel/warrior team find themselves thrust into a world they know nothing about. Matt takes over the life of Daniel, a young man with a great deal of baggage. Emily becomes Liz, a girl living in a remote village who relies on nothing more than her own strength to survive. A violent storm erupts one night, and framed in the window of Liz's establishment is a frightening face. Let in by the soul of a Good Samaritan, the two visitors bring with them a past full of secrets that could literally change an angel's path and a warrior's plans.

From murder to redemption, this angel/warrior team must find a way to keep the faith they have in each other in a world that's ripping them apart.

About the Author

I began to write at a young age when I truly believed that my sister was an evil queen and I was the slayer who would save the realm.:) Now that we are grown...I suppose she's okay,and I have moved on to adventure fiction which I absolutely love. 

Being the daughter of a Research Librarian, books and reading were always a 'gift,' and there is nothing I like more. In fact, if the NYPL would let me live in their basement, that's where I would be. I am very proud of 13, being able to 'link' historical locales together in a puzzle that bestselling authors have called, "The DaVinci Code With Heart." The Tallent & Lowery series is the ultimate adventure and I truly hope you all enjoy the ride! I review for many; I am the Owner of The Write Companion; and Editor-in-Chief of Precious Gems Pubishing, which was opened for debut novelists who were being overlooked. :)

Source about the author: Goodreads - Amy Lignor