Voices of Fiction - Influences on Life/Writing - Part One

Welcome to another edition of Voices of Fiction.

Over the next few weeks, our wonderful group of authors will be discussing those who have influenced them in both life and in writing.

Please welcome our guests.


 Terry W. Ervin II is an English and Science teacher who enjoys writing. He’s an editor for the speculative fiction magazine MindFlights and his short stories have appeared in over a dozen anthologies, magazines and ezines. The genres range from science fiction and fantasy to horror and inspirational.
In 2009 Gryphonwood Press published Terry’s debut fantasy novel FLANK HAWK, and released BLOOD SWORD in 2011. He is busy working on the third novel in the First Civilization’s Legacy series. Website, Blog

Pembroke Sinclair - I write fiction under the pen name Pembroke Sinclair, and I have had several short stories published. My story, “Sohei,” was named one of the Best Stories of 2008 by The Cynic Online Magazine. I have novellas and a short story collection forthcoming from Musa Publishing and eTreasures Publishing. I have two novels, Coming from Nowhere (adult, sci fi) and Life After the Undead (YA, horror), that are available from eTreasures Publishing, as well as Death to the Undead (YA, sequel to Life After the Undead), which is forthcoming. Under my real name, Jessica Robinson, from March 2008 to January 2011, I wrote scientific articles for Western Farmer-Stockman. I have a nonfiction book, Life Lessons from Slasher Films, scheduled for release in July 2012 from Scarecrow Publishing (an imprint of Rowan and Littlefield). Blog, Link, Link

Catrina Barton is a reader and writer of YA and Paranormal Romance, who enjoys being surrounded by the stark beauty of mother nature - whether it's a moon lit starry sky, or a picnic by a peaceful waterfall cascading from the mountain side. She is a proud member of Nano, RBRU, SheWrites and PNRWriters. She is an active participant at Critique Circle and several other crit groups. Blog, Facebook, Link



Carole Ann Moleti is a nurse-midwife in New York City, thus explaining her fascination with all things paranormal, urban fantasy, and space opera. Her newest fiction is featured in Haunted: Ten Tales of Ghosts and Bites: Ten Tales of Vampires.Website, Blog, Twitter



Cherie Reich is a writer, freelance editor, book blogger, and library assistant living in Virginia. She is a member of Valley Writers and the Virginia Writers Club. Links – Website, Blog, Facebook



Welcome Authors! It’s wonderful to have you back for another round.

Now the question is: Who has been the biggest influence in your life? in your writing? 

Terry W. Ervin: The biggest influence in my life was my father. Not in a literary sense. He didn’t write and he only read the newspaper, but that he did every day. Writing wise, it would have to be a combination of reading and studying the works of Roger Zelazny, Steven Brust and Stephen R. Donaldson. I could go into pages detail and specific examples, but mainly from Zelazny’s works I learned about description, pacing and revealing plot details. From Brust I learned about dialogue and action, and from Donaldson, about epic-scale and world building. From all three I learned about characterization and overall storytelling. They and others provide solid written and literary examples to recognize, study and learn, and for me to modify and implement in my own stories and writing style. To this day continue to study and learn.

Pembroke Sinclair: My mom has had a huge impact on my life. Although we don't always see eye to eye, I see so much of her in me. In my writing, there have been several influence. In high school, I had an awesome English teacher who was incredibly supportive and encouraging. My friend Tamara has always been a huge source of inspiration, and I don't think I would be where I'm at if it wasn't for her. But I also have to include all the readers who enjoy my books and expect me to write more!

Catrina Barton: Life: That's a tough one, there have been so many. If I had to choose just one I'd have to say my grandpa Jesse {may he rest in peace.} He always made everyone around him smile or laugh, no matter how moody or upset they were. His insatiable energy just spread to everyone around him and he was so full of life. I really miss him a lot. Writing: My readers. I started out writing fanfics. While some were harsh, most have been incredibly supportive and even offered ways for me to improve my writings. It's because of them and their encouragement that I found the courage to plunge forward and try my hand at writing novels. They continue to support me even now and it's the best feeling in the world, next to knowing my husband is behind me all the way.

Carole Ann Moleti: Honestly, the biggest influences have been my work and life experiences. I write creative nonfiction, memoir and op-ed as well so there is always a kernel of true life humor or pathos or social commentary in my fiction. Being a history buff engages my interest in particular places and events. My midwifery internship in Boston and on the north shore of Massachusetts, including Salem, has had a huge impact. Also, growing up in The Bronx during the "burning" years, coming of age in New York City during its fiscal and moral bankruptcy, and the feminist movement.

Cherie Reich: My biggest influence in my life is a tie between my mom and sister. I get along with both of them very well, and I like to write things that wow them.

Thank you all for joining us today and sharing your influences in both life and writing.

Readers feel free to ask questions concerning this topic in the comments. Also feel free to send questions to chergreen@chergreen.com Subject: Voices of Fiction Question, and have them answered by the participating authors in later editions.

There’s also room for more authors to participate. Drop me an email, Subject: Voices of Fiction.

(Disclaimer - Bios and answers have been posted as submitted by author)