Category Archives: Books & Authors

AUTHOR HEATHER BABCOCK CELEBRATES 5 YEARS OF “FILTHY SUGAR”

May 2025 marks the 5th anniversary of Heather Babcock‘s book “Filthy Sugar”. This titillatingly titled book is, in fact, a provocative (and fictional) look at the life and times of a young woman of the 1930s let lose in a city full of colourful characters, gangsters, hoofers and burly-q queens during a time of economic depression and squashed dreams.  As the book’s promo says:

Set in the mid-1930s, Filthy Sugar tells the story of Wanda Whittle, a nineteen-year-old dreamer who models fur coats in an uptown department store, but lives in a crowded rooming house with her hard-working widowed mother and shrewd older sister, in the slums; a world where “death is always close but life is stubborn.” Bored with the daily grind and still in shock from the sudden death of her father, Wanda finds both escapism and inspiration in the celluloid fantasies of the Busby Berkeley musicals, Greta Garbo dramas, and Jean Harlow sex comedies. Strutting up and down the aisles of Blondell’s department store, Wanda fantasizes that she’s Ruby Keeler, the tap-dancing sweetheart from 42nd Street (pictured below) But Wanda wants more than to wear a glamourous woman’s coat—she wants to live inside of her flesh.

Her dreams come true after a chance encounter with the mysterious proprietor of the Apple Bottom burlesque theatre. Suddenly Wanda is thrust into a world of glitter and grit.  Descending from the roof top of the Apple Bottom theatre on a red velvet swing, Wanda Whittle morphs into a dream named Wanda Wiggles; sweeter than a strawberry sundae and tastier than a deep dish apple pie. At the Apple Bottom she meets Lili Belle, a naughty cartoon flapper brought to life, Queenie, a sultry headliner whom Wanda feels drawn to like a bee to a butterfly bush; the sweet and salty club drummer Eddie, and Brock Baxter, the Apple Bottom’s vaudevillian comic whose apple cheeked, pretty boy exterior belies his sinister intentions.
All will have an impact on Wanda’s journey. Cowardly boxers, shady coppers, dime store hoodlums, and painted ladies—Wanda will encounter them all. On her voyage from rags to riches and back again, Wanda experiences a sexual awakening and achieves personal independence as she discovers that a girl doesn’t need a lot of sugar to be sensational!  So, are you intrigued yet? Filthy Sugar is available online (Amazon & other online outlets) plus at your favourite bricks-and-mortar bookstore. I had the opportunity to chat online with the talented author and here’s what Heather shared with me….

Heather, it’s been 5 years since your book, Filthy Sugar, hit the bookstores – how has the journey been for you as an author?  Thank you! Well, it’s been quite the journey! Filthy Sugar is my debut novel and it was released in May of 2020, at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. That alone made my journey an unpredictable and unchartered one. I quickly learned to roll with the punches. There are often more lows than highs in this writing business so you’ve got to celebrate every win.

Has your publisher (Inanna Publications) been supportive and encouraging, especially during the Covid years when people were forced to find solo activities and entertainment such as reading?  Definitely! The Covid years presented challenges that were new to everyone in the publishing industry. Everything – events, book sales – that had previously been brick and mortar had to quickly be moved online. The planned book launch was held virtually and was attended by over one-hundred people; most in-person bookstores probably wouldn’t have been able to accommodate such a crowd. Word on the Street (WOTS) was also moved online that year. Renée Knapp, who was Inanna’s publicist and marketing manager at the time, was always on hand to answer any questions I had and to help ease my anxieties – and there were many of them in those early days. Looking back, an unexpected benefit to the pandemic was that because people were stuck at home, and many had more free time and even more money on their hands, they were more likely to buy books. I had many friends who marvelled at how quickly Inanna fulfilled their book order. Remember how much fun it was receiving a package in the mail during the Covid days?

The heroine of your story, Wanda, is a sassy 19yr old with dreams of dancing with Ruby Keeler and hanging out with Garbo and Harlow – her screen idols.  They say “write what you know” so is this era and the B&W films of the time you favourite personal interests?  Yes, my father introduced me to classic movies. He loved all of those great glamorous dames: Greta Garbo, Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor. My favourite memories are of watching films like Roman Holiday and A Streetcar Named Desire with him. While researching Filthy Sugar, I immersed myself in the movies of pre-Code Hollywood: films that were made before the enforcement of the Production Code in July of 1934. The 1932 sex comedy Red-Headed Woman, which stars Jean Harlow (pictured below), had a big influence on my novel. I also reference it in the book as it’s one of Wanda’s favourite movies. My father passed away in 2010. I wish he was alive to read Filthy Sugar because I think he’d like it – although he probably wouldn’t approve of Wanda’s raunchier antics!

And what inspired the story…are your characters based on personal friends or perhaps the great dames of the screen – Mae West, Barbara Stanwyck, Joan Crawford?  In January of 2015, for no reason at all, or at least no reason that I can remember, I decided that I was going to read as many books written and published in the 1930s as I could. I began with Henry Roth’s 1934 novel Call It Sleep. My partner, noting my new interest in the decade, bought me a second-hand copy of Pierre Berton’s 2001 historical book The Great Depression: 1929-1939. I began to submerge myself in 1930’s history and pop culture. The ambivalence of the decade fascinates me. Although it was a time of great suffering, the 1930s produced some of the most beautiful music, films, literature, fashion & décor and visual art, all of which has had a great influence on future generations. It was also a time of important social upheaval and change: birth control, unions, workers’ rights (including the minimum wage and 40-hour work week) all came into fruition during the decade. The characters in Filthy Sugar are fictional but, like the youth of their day, they themselves are inspired by the stars and characters that they see in the movies. Wanda is obsessed with Jean Harlow and Greta Garbo and I pictured Eddie, the burlesque house’s drummer, as speaking like Jimmy Cagney.

Have you done many in-store book signings and readings? Any coming up?  Because my book was released during the pandemic, I unfortunately didn’t have the chance to do in-store book signings. However, I was able to participate in online readings and when things began to open up again in 2022, I read at the Bright Lit, Big City reading series at Hirut Cafe (pictured below) and later that year, I was invited to speak at the Vintage Film Festival in Port Hope. I spoke on the topic of “Dangerous Dames – Celebrating the Women of Pre-Code Gangster Movies”. It was an amazing experience and I got to share Filthy Sugar with like-minded movie fans. Coming up, I will be presenting “How to Write a Novel When You Don’t Have Time to Write a Novel” at the Toronto Public Library. My presentation will be at the Agincourt branch on Saturday, July 5th at 2pm. Anyone who is interested in attending can call the library at 416-396-8943 to register.

You set the story in 1930’s Toronto as opposed to New York or Chicago…..why?  The city that Filthy Sugar is set in is fictional: it could be any urban city in North America during the 1930s. This was a conscious choice to give me artistic license and freedom. Wanda’s world is Blondell’s Department Store (a fictional store named after Joan Blondell, one of my favourite actresses from the pre-Code period); the Apple Bottom burlesque theatre where she becomes a star and “the World Behind the Market”, which is what she calls the “slum” where she lives.

Has your publisher suggested an appearance and book sales during Word on the Street this fall?  As far as I know, I won’t be at the Word on the Street this fall but I did attend with my publisher in 2023. It was a lovely afternoon of book signings and catching up with friends in the literary scene, many of whom I had not seen since before the pandemic…see photo below

Is there a sequel in the works or are you working on an entirely different concept or plot for your next book?  At this time, there is no sequel in the works but you never know. I am currently working on my second novel, The Memory of Crows, which is a noir inspired tale of sibling rivalry.

So congratulations again to Heather on the past 5 years of Filthy Sugar…hopefully the book will continue to be bought or taken out of the libraries, read online or listened to via audio books. Maybe a film? Reads just like one of those fabulous movies Wanda loved.

Filthy Sugar by Heather Babcock
Inanna Publications – available in paperback, e-book and audio book from all your favourite bookstores, AppleBooks & Amazon.

AUTHOR PAUL FISHER LAUNCHES 1ST NOVEL “LIKE A RIVER TO THE SEA” FILLED WITH MYSTERY, LIFE, DEATH AND THE METAPHYSICAL WORLD.

Was thrilled to be put in touch with first-time author PAUL FISHER via our mutual friend, Carla Collins. Strange how we are all connected…but maybe not so strange according to Paul whose debut novel LIKE A RIVER TO THE SEA encompasses life, death and beyond.  When Paul was 20, his father died at the young age of 47. Paul was with his father during the last few days of his dad’s life and, in fact, was with him in the Intensive Care Unit as his father’s heart failed on several occasions, resulting in a series of near-death experiences. His father, upon resuscitation from each of these events, told Paul that there was a world that existed beyond this life, and did his best to describe the feelings and philosophies that he had been exposed to during his brief sojourns into the “other side”.Like a River to the Sea is the story of an ordinary man, who, it turns out, has a most extraordinary story to tell. Joshua Davidson was born in Nashville Tennessee; in his 41st year, he is about to die there. This is the story of his life, his loves, his hopes, dreams and fears. It is also the story of what happens to him at the moment he shuffles off this mortal coil, and then what lays beyond. It will change the way you look at your own life, and how you tell your own story. Joshua’s story will help you understand how all the seemingly random people and events that collide with us in our lives are, in fact, quite premeditated and full of purpose. The book explores life, death, connections, mystery and the metaphysical. Here is what Paul shared with me….

Paul also shared his thoughts on things metaphysical or spiritual, that he always had questions since childhood and how that impacted his writing…

Paul has enjoyed a successful career in media, first as a popular radio announcer, then media executive and now author. Recently retired from the radio industry, he worked with several major Canadian media companies including Rogers Media, CHUM Radio and Bell Media.

I asked Paul that knowing what he learnt from his father’s passing and coming to terms with the experience over the decades in-between, would he change anything about his own life or career choices….

The book has been out for a few months now so I asked Paul what sort of feedback he’s received from readers, both friends and strangers….

So is there a second book in the works? And who are your readers?

It was a pleasure chatting with you, Paul, and so the promo dance begins. I’ll be reaching out to Canadian & int’l literary, arts & entertainment media for interviews and reviews so thank you to everyone for supporting Canadian authors. Follow Paul’s writing journey on Fcbk & Instagram:  @PaulFisherauthor

LIKE A RIVER TO THE SEA
Author:   Paul Fisher
Publisher:‎ Ozark Mountain Publishing Inc.
Soft cover $22.00 (285 Pages)
Kindle or audio book: $9.99
Available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other popular platforms
ISBN: 9781950639090

 

RENOWNED TORONTO POET & AUTHOR NORMAN CRISTOFOLI UNVEILS DEBUT CRIME NOVEL “NOVEMBERS”

NOVEMBERS by Norman Cristofoli                                                            
Paperback ISBN 9798886937572  $23.95
E-book ISBN 9798886937589  $4.50
Published by Austin Macauley Publishers

A brutal murder occurs in the opening chapter; it’s graphic and painful and relentless: remember those first 20mins. in Saving Private Ryan? Yeah, that relentless. And what an intriguing start to this engrossing crime mystery from Toronto author & poet Norman Cristofoli. In the first book in a series featuring Det. Sergeant Aristotle Boyle, Cristofoli grabs the reader by the throat and doesn’t let go as he takes us through the seamy underworld of bondage & domination and sado-masochism, and the drudgery of his investigation – life as a real detective is not all tv cop show glamour. All the procedures of evidence gathering, suspect elimination, motives, and of course, sex, drugs and …well, you get the idea. Each character Cristofoli writes is fully fleshed out (I loved his description of a woman’s “butterscotch hair”), and he sets each scene with easy-to-visualize surroundings; Toronto neighbourhoods are familiar to us and the reader may want to head out and retrace Boyle’s steps and those of the mysterious killer. Maybe a murder/mystery walking tour could be in the future?

Our hero is not perfect, he’s been written as a man with numerous inner demons as well as a penchant for attractive, sexy women. The reader can “feel” the heat between him and female characters who may be on the wrong side of the law…or at least just rubbing up against it.

Novembers makes for an enthralling read, and will keep your attention down to the closing chapters…will Boyle find the killer? His investigation becomes an obsession, leading his team through the twists and turns of this intricately planned homicide with just a handful of clues. Stir in Boyle’s love of Greek philosophy, Ouzo and Cuban cigars and you have a recipe for the ultimate crime mystery!

About the Author
Norman Cristofoli began his creative career as a young man writing poetry in the city of Toronto, Canada. In 1984, a-top of Mount Snowden in Wales, he made the transition from a person who wrote poetry to a person who is a poet. He has published several chapbooks of poetry and prose and produced two audio compilations of his spoken-word performances accompanied by musicians. He was the creator and publisher of the Labour of Love literary magazine for twenty-five years, and in 2020, he published his play, The Pub, followed by his first major compilation of poetry entitled Relinquishing the Past. Novembers is the first in a series of murder/mystery novels.For more information, please visit https://www.austinmacauley.com/us

New book covers history of the Rickenbacker guitar from the roaring 20s thru the 21st century.

RICKENBACKER: Guitar Pioneers of the Electric Guitar
By Martin Kelly and Paul Kelly
Published by Firefly Books, October 2023
336 Pages – Hardcover
Price: $59.95
ISBN: 9780228104476

When I learnt about this new book on the history of Rickenbacker guitars, I jumped at the chance to review it; back in the 90s I dated a talented rock guitarist who had a stunning 12-string “Ricky” that I would polish after each gig (so I could brag “I’m with the band”…LOL). It was the Roger McGuinn version with a sunburst design on the front – it was gorgeous to look at and to listen to. I knew that Rickenbacker was a prestigious company and some of the best musicians played them, along with their Gibsons, Fenders and Gretsches.As the promo page from publisher Firefly states “electric guitars are not simply musical instruments. At their best, they are iconic works of art, a marriage of form and function that has come to symbolize the very essence of 20th century pop culture.”  Most fans and players recognize Fender and Gibson as brand leaders in the music industry, but Rickenbacker, a small family-run business with roots stretching back to the very invention of the electric guitar, remains one of the most important makers for nearly 100 years of the company’s history from its founding in 1931 to the present day. George Harrison favoured his Rickenbacker throughout the Beatles era then through his post-Beatles career.Iconic artists such as Roger McGuinn, Jimi Hendrix, Geddy Lee, Randy Bachman, Susanna Hoffs, Tom Petty, Paul McCartney, Paul Weller….the list goes on but the history of the Rickenbacker company itself is even more impressive. The story begins in Los Angeles during the roaring twenties when two young men, George Beauchamp and Adolph Rickenbacher (yes, that’s the original spelling), met and ended up revolutionizing music by electrifying it and changing how we heard the sound for ever. Back then, guitars were part of bands and orchestras but the sound they made acoustically was muffled and hard to hear over the brass and percussion sections. George and Adolph went through many amplification ideas and experiments such as attaching sound horns or inserting diaphragm discs into the body of the guitar before they decided upon electrifying the instrument to offer greatly increased volume and a “crispness” to the playing that cut through other instruments.

This book is an encyclopedic history to educate and entertain both guitar collectors, players and enthusiasts, and those who simply love music. The rarely seen 1920s and 30s blueprints of newly invented electronic instruments are fascinating, and the vintage photos show the development of Rickenbackers over the past nine decades. Authors Paul Kelly (below) and Martin Kelly (2nd below)……have done such deep-diving in their research that this book is crammed with photos – it’s a must-have for anyone who appreciates pop, rock, blues, punk, grunge, even big band and classical sounds.

Available online from Amazon or Indigo and all fine bookstores.

New book about George Harrison’s DARK HORSE RECORDS hits the shelves & author Aaron Badgley’s 100’s of hours of research result in a great look at music history

Dark Horse Records: The Story of George Harrison’s Post-Beatles Record Label
Author: Aaron Badgley
Sonic Bond Publishing
Publication date: January 26, 2024
$24.95  Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and select bookstores
204 pages plus 16 pages of colour photos
ISBN: 978-1-78952-287-7

Written by respected broadcaster and Beatles expert, Aaron Badgley, this is the first book to discuss Harrison’s label in such detail. This book is like reading the intimate diary of George Harrison’s life in music, his recording label, his collaborations and lifelong friendships with other trailblazing artists whose music is still played and appreciated today. In fact, Harrison played with, produced and wrote for a virtual who’s-who of the rock and pop world and helped create a whole new genre of music – World Music. His long-time collaborations with Indian superstar Ravi Shankar and his daughter, Anoushka, brought a world audience to the unique and melodic sounds of India where George found such spiritual enlightenment during his 60’s Beatles days.In 1974, with Apple winding down, Harrison still aspired to help new artists, so rather than trying to salvage Apple, he set up his own label, Dark Horse Records, but on a much smaller scale. His plan was to release records from new artists as well as some of his old friends, with an eye to eventually releasing his own music. While Dark Horse had an encouraging beginning with a hit single from the band Splinter, the label suffered increasing problems, failing to establish itself in the way Harrison hoped. However, some incredible and varied music was created from 1974 to 1977, including some of Harrison’s best solo material. Towards the end of its initial life, Dark Horse dropped most of its artists and released mainly Harrison’s solo work. Thankfully, since 2020, George’s talented musician son, Dhani, has taken the reins and has made Dark Horse viable once again, signing legends Cat Stevens and Billy Idol, and releasing music from Joe Strummer and Leon Russell. Finally, in 2023, it was announced that Harrison’s entire solo catalog was going to be re-released on Dark Horse. Badgley’s book tells the story of the label from the beginning, through its struggles and on to its exciting renaissance in the new millennium.Dark Horse Records was not a vanity label set up exclusively for George Harrison’s music. It was a record label and company that attempted – and succeeded – in being unique, that desired to make a difference. Harrison had a passion for helping artists and introduce them to the world. He felt there was room in the music business to accommodate many different styles and a label with diverse acts could not only exist but thrive. It was more of a philosophy than a business plan, and the world was a better place because of it. Dark Horse Records is now in the hands of Harrison’s musician son, Dhani, along with his widow, Olivia.

I recently spoke with Aaron who kindly filled me in on how the book came to be and how Harrison’s music has impacted his own….

Aaron, congratulations on your new book Dark Horse Records. What inspired you to write about this relatively unknown part of George Harrison’s life? First, thank you. The reason for writing this is because it’s a relatively unknown part of George Harrison’s life and career. His All Things Must Pass, Concert For Bangladesh, Cloud Nine and The Traveling Wilburys get a lot of attention, but there is this other chapter in his life that is equally as important. Dark Horse Records was a chance for Harrison to help others and to promote new and undiscovered talent, like he did with Apple Records (The Beatles own record label). I think this time period really deserved to be explored and explained. It has always been a very fascinating chapter in his history for me. The label was so eclectic, like George himself. You have British folk (Splinter), classical Indian music, blues, jazz-rock, rhythm and blues, and pop. In very few years he did a lot for these artists and had a remarkably diverse label. Not to mention his own music. I would argue that he made some of his best solo albums on Dark Horse Records.Most people feel that the Lennon & McCartney- written songs are the biggest influences on their own lives or have impacted the music industry the most….where does George Harrison’s writing and recording fit into the public zeitgeist? That is an excellent question! I am not really sure how to answer that, but with songs like “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” and “Here Comes the Sun”, I think he joins their ranks. As a solo artist, his All Things Must Pass Album was a triple album and now considered a classic. Maybe at the time he was overshadowed by Lennon & McCartney but I think he has caught up with them in the public’s eye. Even McCartney admits that “Something” is one of the greatest love songs ever written. I think that there has been a serious re-evaluation of his work and he is being appreciated by whole new generations.George’s wife, Olivia, and son Dhani (pictured below) have cherished and sustained his legacy, both in music and peace activism – how do you think future generations of music lovers will embrace George Harrison’s music? I find it interesting that Dhani has also resurrected the Dark Horse Records label. He has signed Cat Stevens, Billy Idol and has released Leon Russell and Joe Strummer (of The Clash) solo music so I am glad to see they are also keeping his record label alive along with his music and spirit. I hope that this music lives on forever, quite frankly, and is embraced by all future generations. I was thrilled to see the new Beatles single, “Now and Then” top the charts all around the world, including Spotify and other streaming charts. Because Harrison never tried to follow trends and jump on bandwagons, I think his music has aged well and will continue to age well. He had his own distinct style and it sounds as good today as it did when it was first released. Harrison is really coming into his own these days, and my 24 year-old daughter tells me that friends and people of her age group are really enjoying discovering his music, both with The Beatles and solo.You’ve enjoyed a long career in radio playing great music, chatting with music makers and offering opinions and reviews – how do today’s songs compare with those of the 60s and 70s and do you wish more under-40s would listen to the rock and pop classics of that era? When I was growing up, listening to AM radio, like CHUM and CFTR (in Toronto), what I loved about it, in hindsight, is that they would play everything. Oldies and new songs. So, as kids of that era, we all knew Buddy Holly, Elvis, Janis, and all sorts of artists along with the current top 40. I think that is missing today. Radio is so fragmented that young people only listen to their genre and never get the chance to branch out. There are some fine artists today making really creative and wonderful music, and as much as I enjoy discovering new bands, I notice radio will not play new music by anyone over 40. This is a shame. Because when I hear some new artists, I can hear the older bands coming through their sound. So, I wish the young listeners were also aware of the artist’s influences as they enjoy the music. Was the music of my youth better? I don’t know. But, when I was young, the music of my parents’ generation was Bing Crosby or even Al Jolson, which was pretty square at the time. Now, I love Bing and listen to him a lot. Maybe as the youth get older, they will look back and discover this incredible body of work, not only of George Harrison but all the other artists.So tell us, was George your favourite Beatle, if not, who was? I am one of five boys, and my mother used to say, ‘I love you all equally, just differently’. I guess that is how I see The Beatles. I don’t really have a favourite, but I do go through phases. Some months, I just listen to McCartney, other months it may be Lennon. I love George, I love his lyrics and his musical ability and his spiritualism. His solo albums are full of fantastic, astounding songs, of which I never ever tire. I guess that may not answer your question, but that is the best I have.How/where can people buy your book? My book is available through Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Indigo, basically all the book sellers. It is also found in select stores and Burning Shed website.

For younger fans of both The Beatles and Harrison as a solo artist, perhaps a reminder of his tragic final years is needed: in May 1997, Harrison was diagnosed with throat cancer. He was treated with radiotherapy, which initially seemed successful. Then two years later, on December 30th 1999, Harrison and his wife, Olivia, were attacked in their home. Harrison suffered over 40 stab wounds and part of his punctured lung had to be removed. And yet, Harrison continued to record, helping new bands and old friends such as Bill Wyman, Jeff Lynne, Albert Lee and Jim Capaldi.  On 29 November 2001, George Harrison lost his battle with cancer and passed away.

About the author
As a youngster, Aaron Badgley developed a profound love of The Beatles and music in general, also developing a fascination with record labels. At the age of 19, he started working in radio and by 20, he was a production manager for a number of stations in Canada. In 2005, Aaron debuted his syndicated radio show The Beatles Universe, which ran for six years. Currently, he is the host of Here Today and Backwards Traveller radio shows and cohosts From Memphis To Merseyside and The Way-Back Music Machine (with Tony Stuart). He writes for Spill Magazine and Immersive Audio Album, and has also contributed to the All Music Guide. Aaron resides in Toronto, Canada.At the back of the book, there are pages and pages of reference works and a bibliography so extensive, one can only imagine the hours, days, weeks, months Badgley put in to research for his book.

 

One of Canada’s Foremost Entertainment Journalists, BILL WELYCHKA, writes of his exciting life & career in his autobiography “A Happy Has-been”

If ever there was a happy and contented has-been it’s former MuchMusic veejay, popular host of multiple music specials featuring interviews with the biggest stars imaginable, MuchMoreMusic’s leading on-air personality, radio jock and all-round music renaissance man, BILL WELYCHKA. He can now add “author” to his long list of skills and credits with the recent publication of his autobiography “A Happy Has-been”.

I remember the first time I was aware of Bill’s presence on my tv screen back in the 80s, especially towards the end of the decade when he hosted “Outlaws & Heroes” featuring the “new country” sounds and interviews with Nashville’s (and Bakersfield’s) newest minted stars who brought the old-timey sounds of Hank Williams, Bill Monroe, Conway Twitty, Eddy Arnold and the Patsies – Cline and Montana – forward towards the 21st century by adding new flavours to the twangs. These were MY people! ( Bill below with a young Garth Brooks)Like most showbiz stories, Bill has experienced highs and lows, as well as stabs in the back and dizzying heights of success and popularity throughout his career which started out behind the scenes, editing footage for the OGs of MuchMusic when it launched in the early 80s as Canada’s answer to the US MTV. His book recounts his “adventures”, not dirty laundry, and the book makes for a great read and you’ll find out cool secrets and “would you believes..” from the early days of the Canadian and int’l music scenes.

A definite “would you believe…” is that Bill has also dipped his toes in the professional wrestling world (I was into wrestling as a little kid back in the 60s when I watched Killer Kowalski and his famous “sleeper hold” with Dad on B&W tv back in Australia). Yeah, you gotta read that chapter!  I recently reconnected with Bill and he graciously answered some of my questions about the book and his life over the past decades….here are his responses, thoughts and musings: You already had quite the exciting career behind the scenes when you took over Outlaws & Heroes on MuchMusic – who was your favourite artist to interview? Were you old school (George Jones, Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, Marty Stewart) or “new country” eg: Travis Tritt, Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, Clint Black, Dwight Yoakam?  I was first turned on to country in 1986…the year that really ushered in the New Traditionalist Movement in country music. That was the year of debut albums by Dwight Yoakam, Steve Earle and Randy Travis. As I wrote in the book, these cats were alternative to me. No one I knew listened to country! I fell in love with country in 1986, but immediately did my homework and went back and discovered George Jones, Waylon Jennings, Hank William Sr., Johnny Cash, Conway Twitty, Merle and the other legends. I still listen to THAT kind of country to this day but haven’t really listened to anything new since about 2000.In the mid-90s, your on-air focus was switched from country to rock and alt. – were you already a fan of these other genres and how difficult was is (or smooth) to transition your research and interviews?  I have listened to all kinds of music since kindergarten. I always looked at music as a badge. My tastes in music have always varied…. rock, folk, funk, heavy metal, alternative. It was an easy transition for me to be moved over to regular flow programming, but the hardest thing was coming to grips with the nagging question “What will the audience think?” Would they accept the ‘country guy’ interviewing The Stone Roses and introducing hip-hop videos? It was a short-lived concern. I was accepted and in-time the audience understood that I LOVED all kinds of music and LOVED interviewing everybody. I write about it in the book…I wasn’t the cute one, the wacky one, the political one…I was the one that loved creating television and aspired to always conduct high-quality interviews.

I know you were always happy to lend your name and presence to charitable endeavours and fundraisers (I invited you to host the 1999 OSPCA fundraiser The Fur Ball and you were brilliant). When you supported World Vision Canada, how were you affected by filming in Africa and the poverty you witnessed?  Those experiences have stayed with me to this day. Every charity appearance or assignment has. That two-week trip to Africa or travelling with the UN to Haiti and India, you see conditions you couldn’t imagine people living in. But you also see hope and meet people that have devoted their lives to improving the lives of others. Upon arriving home after those kinds of assignments, you realize that NOTHING in my life could compare to the existence of some. One really does count their blessings.  Even here in Kingston, I devote a lot of time to emceeing numerous benefits and charities. It’s a beautiful caring community and giving back is infectious. (Bill on stage at The Fur Ball with comedian & fellow tv host Carla Collins)As part of your personal civic awareness and commitment to helping those without a voice, can you talk about Men Rocking for Women and the launch of the White Ribbon Campaign?  Men Rocking For Women was a charity concert I organized and emceed in Ottawa. It was after hearing about Ottawa-area women’s shelters being over-flowing and under-funded. The idea was male musicians joining together on stage performing to raise money for these shelters. There was also a message…there is no room in our world for men’s violence of any kind against women.
Jeff Martin (The Tea Party) got me involved in the White Ribbon Campaign in the mid 90s. The WRC is a global movement of guys joining together to end men’s violence against women. He asked me to emcee the WRC concerts each year. I did so, very eagerly.
Partial proceeds from book sales will be donated to the WRC and women’s shelters across Canada. I write about it extensively in the book.

I loved MuchMoreMusic’s The Story of…. shows. In your book, you talk about how much you enjoyed talking with artists who have moved into a second or third act of their lives and careers. Is this book your own The Story of….?  Hahaha! I suppose so. The idea for the book partially came from being asked for decades or being told “Are you ever going to write a book?” “You should write a book!”
It would usually go in one ear and out the other. I honestly thought “No one is going to care.”  But during COVID, I kept getting asked to be on all these podcasts to talk about me, my life and my career. People wanted me to share my story. One day, I started writing down all these stories and experiences I was relating. One weekend I just started banging away at my computer. Towards the end of 2021, I realized I might have a book here! I kept at it for a year and it was finished in Dec. of 2022. It came out in August 2023 and in its first week was a Top 10 Amazon Best Seller and a number one download. The reception has been amazing. I have been doing an Ontario book-tour at Chapters/ Indigo and it’s been awesome meeting so many people who have purchased the book. It keeps selling, too! This book has legs…it’s amazing to me. There will be a further book-tour in 2024. It is available in retail across Canada and on-line. There is already talk of a second edition! (Below with Ice T, Prince, Janet Jackson, getting smooched by Lisa Marie Presley) You recount so many extraordinary celebrity interviews and social situations, some of which were sketchy or scary. Did you ever find yourself in a situation where you didn’t think you’d make it out alive?  I never really thought of things that way. I have always maintained a life lived in fear is a life half-lived. I would do anything to make a story better. I have bungee jumped numerous times, went skydiving, have rappelled down buildings, participated in a demolition derby, have done several polar-dips, been in numerous wrestling matches, have broken bones and tore muscles all for the sake of a TV story and for the audience.  Plus, it would always make great TV! (A fun memory Bill writes about is his happy meeting with Brett Michaels and Poison – being brought out on stage)You were witness to the demise of the original concept of MM and MMM, and the slow slide to tabloid television-style programming at both networks. Do you think the format could or should be returned to our televisions or has the ‘net and streaming services killed off any chance to bring back good music, good interviews, good entertainment?  No amount of creativity or money could recapture the essence or magic of what those channels were. They played a vital role in the creation of the Canadian music business and contributed huge amounts to Canadian pop culture. I am fascinated by the fascination with MuchMusic. Look at the new doc by Sean Menard, “299 Queen Street West”. It’s a doc currently touring across Canada. It’s AMAZING! Good for Sean for reminding a couple generations of MuchMusic’s importance. (see screening schedule below) I miss seeing ‘great’ interviews on TV. I know many people do! My specials and interviews (on my YouTube channel) have BIG numbers. That is a testament to people wanting to watch solid music television with fun and informative interviews that were allowed to breathe. Current pop culture entertainment shows feature 10 second soundbites about who is in rehab, who has cellulite, who is getting divorced. WHO cares????

In chapter 16, you name names of those mega-stars who you engaged in meaningful conversations, not just tabloid-esque fluff pieces. Apart from personal revelations on their part, did you ever learn anything about yourself undertaking these celebrity interviews?  Absolutely! There were many life-lessons learned. Many are shared in the book. A lot of things about the importance of elevating everyone around us. It’s not just about putting celebs on pedestals, but everyday people who enrich our lives and make this world a better place. It’s about highlighting and shining a spotlight on doctors, first responders, teachers, volunteers.
I also talk about how dangerous egos can be. Just because someone is on TV or recognized in public does not give them a pass to be an asshole. (Below, Bill with pre-meltdown Britney Spears)Was there ever an interview you had to do with someone you did not respect or like his/her music? No need to name names but surely there were a few “stars” the suits insisted you chat with against your better judgement?  I would never take away from someone’s talent even if I wasn’t a ‘fan’. Most of the time, I interviewed artists who I necessarily wouldn’t listen to when I went home…unless I was researching for an interview. I treat every interview subject the same, whether I was a fan or not. I wanted the experience to be a good one for the artist and for their fans. That being said, I have interviewed Marilyn Manson a few times. I like the music but would often NOT like the message. I love his stance on the importance of individuality, but his views on the bible and Christianity I have a problem with. His crowd chants of “We hate Love. We love hate” is detrimental messaging to a 13 year old. But, oh well. Christ’s teachings endure. Marilyn did not.

I’m so happy for you that you have finally found a wonderful home in Kingston (I love that town) and a soul-mate to keep you grounded and feeling loved and worthy. Do you have any other bucket-list gigs or adventures you’d like to experience?  Thanks for asking! Yes, the word ‘Happy’ is the most important part of the book’s tittle “A Happy Has-been”. The ‘has-been’ part of the title has been an interesting topic for interviewers and people that have bought the book. It’s funny to me! I admit the title is self-deprecating but to some, I am a ‘has-been’. I explain it in the book. There are some people who might have watched me in the 90s or the early 2000s who might only recognize my name from that time. Their reaction might be “Oh, yeah…that guy! Is he dead? Is he still working? He’s a has-been.” But there are people who have followed my every move since then, to where I am now. I have worked non-stop in television since 1988. Since 1992, I have been both behind the scenes and on-air with no break. (below with Kingston’s own Gord Downie & The Tragecly Hip’s concert in Kingston, Ontario)I have been here in Kingston for almost 12 years now. I host and produce Global News Morning, a Corus Entertainment property. I love whom I work with and I love this city and its citizens and the energy here.  If I died tomorrow, I’ve had the best life! I still have the best life!

If fans would like to follow your adventures or attend a book signing, how do they follow you on social media?
Facebook & Instagram:  @billwelychka
For more info about the book, head to www.billwelychka.ca   It’s available across Canada at fine book-stores everywhere.  Thanks for being interested!
……………………………………

Thank you so much, Bill, my memories of hanging out at MuchMusic, star “minding” and dealing with bus loads of groupies came flooding back with each page-turn.  This is the perfect gift for anyone who loves music be it pop, rock, R&B, grunge, hip-hop, country…whatever.
Available from Amazon & fine bookstores across the country
Friesen Press
232 Pages
ISBN: 978-1-03-918346-9 (Hardcover), 978-1-03-918345-2 (Paperback) or 978-1-03-918347-6 (eBook)
Above – Bill with long-time friend, the Hip’s Paul Langlois

EXCITING NEW READ FOR FANS OF HORSE-RACING!

Growing up in Australia, I was aware from an early age how important horse-racing is to the country, along with cricket and footy. Every year on the first Tuesday of November, the entire nation shuts down and listens to or watches the run of the Melbourne Cup, one of the World’s richest turf races. The legendary Phar Lap mesmerized the country back in the late 20s and early 30’s before dying mysteriously in the U.S.; I had the opportunity to see him (well, his skin really) preserved and on display in a shrine-like case in the big state museum in Melbourne (pictured below)Since moving to Canada, I’ve followed racing and the annual quest for the Triple Crown so it’s no secret I am a huge fan of the late, great Secretariat, and have had the honour of meeting his equally legendary jockey, Ron Turcotte. When I learnt of the new book, The Turcottes: The Remarkable Story of a Horse Racing Dynasty by author Curtis Stock, I knew I had to read it and with a little bit of luck, have the opportunity to interview the author for my entertainment column in The Rider (Ontario’s “voice of the horse”) newspaper. Talk about great timing – 2023 is the 50th anniversary of Secretariat’s Triple Crown victory.Yes, fifty years ago, Secretariat, a horse so powerful and fast that many of his records still stand today, completed his historic Triple Crown campaign – his win was so popular with race fans that many winning $2 tickets were never surrendered to claim winnings. Secretariat’s rider was Ron Turcotte who grew up as one of 14 children in the small town of Drummond, New Brunswick, noted for its timber industry not horse racing! Four of Ron’s siblings – Noel, Rudy, Roger and Yves – followed their older brother onto North American racetracks and into the winner’s circle.This new 360 page book is the story of the family’s journey from their little corner of the Canadian woods to the pinnacle of the thoroughbred racing world. Each Turcotte found outstanding success, collectively winning a staggering 8,251 races for purse earnings just shy of $60 million. But the jockey’s life takes a toll; each brother was in a never-ending battle to maintain his riding weight, while Noel, Rudy and Roger constantly fought the bottle. And then came the losses, the injuries and the crushing heartbreaks: the unlikely triumph of one of horse racing’s greatest families was not without tragedy. Drawing upon over 30 years of reporting and interviews, author Curtis Stock takes readers on an unforgettable ride through the major players and race days of thoroughbred racing. (author Stock, pictured below)Part biography and part oral history, the book is a true underdog story and a sure bet for any sports fan. The 25th chapter, in particular, is an exciting telling of Secretariat’s Triple Crown campaign, each race written from a stride-by-stride perspective. It will leave you breathless!I asked Curtis about the process of writing his book and he was kind enough to share the following with me….

Apart from the obvious successes enjoyed by the Turcottes in the horse-racing world, what inspired you to write this biographical story, warts and all?  It was simply a fascinating story of five brothers from Drummond, population 700, out of a lumberjack town all being jockeys and all very successful. And then the tragedies that followed.

Did the family endorse your book and open up to you with tales from childhood to the winner’s circle?  Yes, the family (pictured below) was very accommodating. I spent three days in New Brunswick with Ron three years ago. At that time, I also visited Rudy who was in a group home in Grand Falls, New Brunswick. I also talked extensively with Rudy when I tracked him down in Florida and before he came to Alberta. Yves, lives in St. Albert which is a suburb of Edmonton where I live. He was extremely helpful. We spoke at least once a week. I met Roger many, many times when he rode in Alberta.  Noel was the only jockey I never met.How long did the research for the book take? Were you given full access to the racing industry’s archives, news footage and historical reportage (much of which I’m sure you wrote yourself!)?  The research and writing took 3 years but I actually started thinking of writing this book 20 years ago and I began accumulating their histories. I went through countless statistics at that time. Daily Racing Form manuals and archives from the stories I had already written as a sports writer with the Edmonton Journal for some 30 years and when Roger and Yves rode here in Alberta. So, yes, a lot of the information came from one-on-one interviews from that period.

You previously joined a syndicate that was successful with running winners – how did that feel, being on the other side?  I have owned shares of horses for some 30 years. Not many but usually with a group of friends. I currently own one horse, a three-year-old, that is just getting started with five friends. I covered horse racing for the Edmonton Journal for about 25 years so I was inside, as you say, for a long time. As for being on the inside, there is nothing more thrilling than watching your own horse run.

So 11 Sovereign Awards plus numerous other sports writing awards and kudos – is there any other writing goal(s) to which you aspire?  I have no future plans at this time. I would like to see the book become a movie. There was a very successful movie on Secretariat, the greatest horse of all time but nothing on the Turcotte family.How can fans follow you on social media?  Follow me on Twitter: @CurtisJStock

(Pictured below – Ron in wheelchair alongside the statue of him aboard the great Secretariat, located in Lexington, Kentucky)Thank you to Firefly Books who kindly sent me a preview copy. The book is available from Amazon and Indigo Books for $35.00 (ISBN: 9780228104247)

BBC CELEBRATES 100 YEARS – AUTHOR DAVID HENDY WRITES ABOUT THE BEEB’S STORY & BRITAIN’S SOCIAL HISTORY

THE BBC: A century on the air By David Hendy
Published by Public Affairs/Hachette Book Group
656 pages
Price: $48.00 Cdn • $38 US
ISBN: hardcover 9781610397049 • ebook 9781610397056

Like so many of us “of a certain age” our first memories of entertainment come from children’s programming on the BBC radio, then TV. When I first heard of this historical recounting of the British Broadcasting Corporation story by David Hendy, I knew if would be a big book (it is, coming in at 610 pages plus numerous index and reference pages) and I knew full well I would be transported back to the early 50s when my favourite kiddie’s program on BBC tv was the puppet character Muffin the Mule along with Andy Pandy & Teddy, both part of the “watch with mother” programmes. Later, Dr. Who came along and the rest is history! My mum would love to sing and dance around the house as the Billy Cotton Band Show blared out of the radio in the front room, courtesy of BBC radio – she was an exhibition ballroom dancer during the latter part of WWII and even danced with the Glenn Miller Orchestra during their concerts for the troops stationed in and around London. I would secretly watch from the doorway as she twirled and swayed to the music throughout the day. Even when we emigrated to Australia in ‘59, the BBC followed us out there, it seemed.

The BBC has served as a rare and extraordinary institution in the UK – a constant source of information, comfort and entertainment through both war and peace, and celebrates its centenary as a rare establishment that continues to serve and provide for people around the world. Yes, 2022 marks the 100th anniversary of BBC’s launch, easily one of the most recognizable “brands” in entertainment and communications in the world. Over the decades it has come under fire for corruption in the front offices, political entanglements and audience loyalty and abandonment. But the beeb is still here…and so are we.

Author David Hendy tackled the herculean task of researching its history, its ground-breaking programming as well as uncovering all manner of dubious backroom goings on as a master detective wrestles a cold case into submission; Holmes, Poirot and Miss Marple would be proud of him! A former BBC producer himself, Hendy is an expert in broadcasting and cultural history and was given privileged access to previously unused behind-the-scenes resources to tell the history of an extraordinary institution: the oldest national public broadcaster in the world. In doing so, he presents a broader cultural history of Britain including the wider world of politics, the arts, social change, and everyday life.

David Hendy is a writer, broadcaster and professor of media and communication at the University of Sussex, England. His previous books include Life on Air: a History of Radio Four, which won the 2008 History Today-Longman Book of the Year Award and was nominated for the Orwell Prize.

This book is long, very loooong indeed, but it makes for great summer beach or poolside reading or, if you prefer, a great Christmas present for those who like to cuddle up with some scones and tea in the winter months. Available on Amazon or from your favourite bookstore now.

LEGENDARY HOLLYWOOD DIRECTOR NORMAN JEWISON GETS BIO TREATMENT FROM AUTHOR IRA WELLS

Last week, I was honoured to attend an online gathering of film critics, writers, film directors and industry insiders to hear author IRA WELLS discuss his new book NORMAN JEWISON: A DIRECTOR’S LIFE published by Sutherland House Books (Founded in 2017 by Canadian author and publishing executive Kenneth Whyte). As a long-time fan of the Canadian director’s films, this was a dream Zoom meeting! Ever since my first viewing of The Thomas Crown Affair starring the king of cool, Steve McQueen, and the gorgeous sophisticated Faye Dunaway, I was hooked on Jewison’s style and on-screen “rhythm” – that chess scene from Thomas Crown stands as one of the most erotic scenes ever committed to film…and they kept their clothes on!! From 1965 thru ’68 he served us some of the era’s (and film history’s) most iconic films: In the Heat of the Night presents southern racism in all its brutal ugliness and features that slap heard around the world, The Russians are Coming, The Russians are Coming is a hilarious look at how the cold war affects small town America, and McQueen’s earlier cinematic outing with Jewison, The Cincinnati Kid takes us into the shady but exciting world of high stakes poker. Fiddler on the Roof, The Hurricane, Moonstruck, F.I.S.T., Rollerball, Jesus Christ Superstar, A Soldier’s Story…going all the way back to the beloved Canadian tv series, The Wayne & Shuster Show, Jewison has delivered provocative, compassionate, engaging and hilarious content for his audiences to devour. This new book is now on my Christmas list for Santa…and the fat man better show up early with this present!th (6)About the man, the book and the author:

NORMAN JEWISON directed some of the most iconic and beloved films from the 60s through the 21st century, from In the Heat of the Night and The Thomas Crown Affair to Jesus Christ Superstar and Moonstruck. But despite being what his friend, award-winning screenwriter William Goldman called “a giant of the industry,” Jewison could also walk the streets of any city in the world and go unrecognized. Jewison was a man of contradictions: he cared more about telling great stories than gaining fame and fortune by showcasing movie stars, but generations of Hollywood’s marquee actors—Judy Garland, Sidney Poitier, Faye Dunaway, Al Pacino, Jane Fonda, Burt Reynolds, Goldie Hawn, Bruce Willis, Denzel Washington—trusted him at crucial moments in their careers. Yet, for all his talent and the passionate support of his actors, Jewison suffered heartbreaking rejection from the executives who refused to believe in his dreams.t crown heat of the night th (7)Norman Jewison: A Director’s Life is a story of artistic survival and reinvention, and about the fate of original cinematic ideas in an industry increasingly captive to corporate greed. Drawing upon exhaustive archival research and dozens of interviews, biographer IRA WELLS (pictured below) provides a soulful portrait of an idealist who had to fight for every frame of his legacy. Here are Norman’s legendary collaborators— Hal Ashby, William Rose, Steve McQueen, and more—brought to vivid life in original letters, telegrams, and revealing, unpublished interviews. A clear-eyed reassessment of Hollywood’s final golden age, Norman Jewison: A Director’s Life is both the intimate portrait of an artist and a rallying cry for anyone who has had to fight for their creative vision.Ira headshot (1)Author IRA WELLS is an assistant professor in English and Academic Programs at Victoria College in the University of Toronto. His writing has appeared in many publications, including The Guardian, The New Republic, The Walrus, Globe and Mail, Los Angeles Review of Books, and American Quarterly.  Advance reviews and kudos are pouring in for Ira’s book….

“Renowned filmmaker Norman Jewison is a contradiction in terms: one of the great purveyors of classical Hollywood storytelling and an outsider at the same time. Finally, with Ira Wells’s rewarding biography, Jewison receives the attention he richly deserves. Wells’ vibrant, well-written chronicle is one of those indispensable film books that illuminates the times and life of one of film’s major practitioners.” — Michael Barker, Co-President and Co-Founder, Sony Pictures Classics

“This is a terrific book and a fun read. Norman Jewison directed some of the most enjoyable films of our time. I thank Norman for his films and applaud Ira Wells for capturing both Norman’s legendary feistiness and his great generosity of spirit, both of which I experienced first-hand.” — Joe Eszterhas, writer of Basic Instinct, Showgirls, and Hollywood Animal

“Ira Wells, wonderful storyteller and master stylist, takes us to the movies, then behind the scenes, then beyond, bringing new life to films and stars we thought we knew.  This is a book you will never want to put down.” — David Yaffe, author of Reckless Daughter: A Portrait of Joni Mitchell th (2) th (3) th (5)NORMAN JEWISON: A DIRECTOR’S LIFE
ISBN [hardcover]: 978-1-989555-38-5
Price: $28.95 USD / $34.95 CAD
Page count: 490
Available NOW from Amazon and in-stores or direct from the publisher: https://sutherlandhousebooks.square.site/product/norman-jewison/61?cs=true&cst=customth (4)

 

ACTOR, BEST-SELLING AUTHOR, HORSE-LOVER SHELLEY PETERSON SITS HIGH IN THE SADDLE AS SHE LAUNCHES HER 9TH NOVEL

Throughout the 80s and 90s, I’d become a fan of Canadian film and tv actress, SHELLEY PETERSON. She appeared in all the major hit tv shows like Night Heat, E.N.G., the anthology series Alfred Hitchcock Presents, the comedy Dog House and another fave of mine, Twice in a Lifetime (2000). In 2007, Shelley appeared in the scary, spooky thriller Dead Silence alongside one of my favourite Australian actors, Ryan Kwanten, who starred with Aussie superstar Aaron Petersen in the original Mystery Road movie.  During all this time, Shelley was not only married to politician and future Ontario premier, David Peterson, she also raised a family and started writing books for Young Adults based on her love of horses. Oh, and by the way, she continued riding and owns a horse facility north of Toronto. Talk about an over-achiever and a great success story!

Her books are beautifully crafted novels targeting the tween/teen/young adult readership and focuses on horse-lovers and their adventures with their 4-legged best friends.  Her latest book is THE JAGGED CIRCLE which Shelley is currently promoting and hopefully will soon be able to do the usual meet-n-greet reading events with her fans as the province opens up after 15 months of Covid lockdown. I recently spoke with Shelley where we discovered our mutual love of horses, sharing our pony club stories from way-back…Cover final, Jagged Circle copy (1)Congratulations on the publication of your latest Y/A novel The Jagged Circle. You’ve written 9 books now involving horses so you must have been a pony club girl from way back…yes?  Yes, you’re right. I went to Pony Club in London, Ontario. We had wonderful teachers who were thorough and demanding. For example, we were timed taking our bridles apart, cleaning and oiling them, then putting them back together. We learned every part of a horse, how to look after them from top to bottom, including how to feed and groom them. The riding part was just as demanding, but more fun!  My favourite teacher was Dorinda Brickenden Greenway, who was an international show jumper. I admire her so much that I put her in ‘The Jagged Circle’ as a judge in the March Madness Steeplechase.

I gather you’ve always ridden throughout your adult life, too, and now own a fabulous horse facility, Fox Ridge – can you tell us about it and how it allows you to fulfil any childhood dreams?  I’ve been extremely lucky to have been around horses all my life. I had horses as a child in our backyard barn in London and then married a man whose father had a farm with Hereford cows. Pete loved horses and knew more about them than anybody else I’ve ever met. He’s a character in many of my books as Pete Pierson. He bought me my foundation mare, Sandpiper, and I’m now raising her great-grandchildren in Caledon where we live at Fox Ridge. I can think of nothing more fulfilling than guiding the journey from wobbly-legged new-born foal to a responsive, calm, willing adult horse.thumbnailI read a brief synopsis of one of your earlier books, Dancer, which was inspired by your then-teenage daughter. I must admit, the story could have been written about me, too. I was the class geek back home in Australia, and instead of 2-legged friends, I had a whole herd of 4-legged ones at the local stables. Have you found that your books offer comfort and validation to your predominantly tween and teenage female readers? And have you received “fan mail” reflecting that?  Absolutely. Readers’ emails and letters warm my heart and keep me writing. Each of my novels deals with a real issue (or several issues) that kids face, and each person will take what they need out of my books. If something that happens in one of my novels reflects a reader’s personal situation, I hope they’ll find strength and inspiration by how my characters cope with it. Otherwise, it’s just part of the story.sundancer (2)When you were acting on a regular basis, you appeared in 2 of my favourite Canadian tv series, E.N.G. and Night Heat. Do you miss those days or are they now just very fond memories?  I loved the world of theatre, television and film, and it was good to be a part of it. It’s very tough work, regardless of the glamourous perception of it, but very rewarding as well. The magic of theatre cannot be replicated elsewhere, and I revisited it in my novel, ‘Stagestruck’. One day I might go back to it as a little old lady, but for now I prefer allowing my imagination the freedom to create stories as opposed to acting them through other writers’ characters and dialogue.th (2)Being the wife of a politician must have been demanding – did you find horse-riding offered you relaxation and an outlet to de-stress?  Horses only relate to you when you set aside your stress. They actually turn away if you bring your troubles to the barn. As soon as you understand that, things go well. Through any turmoil in my life—being the wife of a politician, raising children, having a stressful career– horses have always demanded that I put my mental garbage in a sack and leave it metaphorically at the barn door.

Riding horse Prospero with grand-daughter Willow

Riding horse Prospero with grand-daughter Willow

The Jagged Circle is the second book in your Jockey Girl series and this time your heroine, Evangeline Gibb, is up to her stirrups in solving a murder while training her steeplechaser, Kazzam, for a big race. Can you give us any more clues as to how Evangeline does…with the helping the police solve the crime as well as the race?  Before the story begins, her grandmother Mary has been training Evie and Kazzam over jumps, and there’s already a very strong bond of trust between horse and rider which allows them to escalate their training over cross-country jumps with Piers Anders. And Evie’s love of her little sister, along with her curiosity and grit, won’t allow her to stop delving into the mysteries until they’re solved. The story takes place over a very short time, going from the boredom of being alone at Spring break to action overload as the drama unfolds. One reader told me he needed a nap when he finished reading my book!

Do you have social media where fans can follow you and learn more about your books?  I have a website, www.shelleypeterson.com  and a Facebook page “ShelleyPetersonBooks”. My publisher is Dundurn Press and I’m on their website as well. Any questions can be sent to me directly via my website, and I’ll answer them as soon as I get back from the barn.thumbnail (1)Thank you so much for sharing your life and loves, Shelley, and I know my readers will be checking out ALL your books which are available from Amazon as well as through your own website.  You can also visit the Dundurn Press website and social media: @dundurnpress
THE JAGGED CIRCLE by Shelley Peterson
Paperback ISBN: 9781459746947 • $14.99
eBook ISBN: 9781459746961 • $8.99willow riding Robyn