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Interview with Charline Ratcliff

Charline, you lead a very interesting work life. I visited your website and blog and got to know you better. Can you tell our readers a little about yourself? Where can they find more about your services?

Thanks Linda. While I never intended to become a published author, artist, et cetera, I am happy to be doing something I find fulfilling. I guess the old adage rings true: do what you love and it won't seem like work. Of course, due to my unusual childhood I didn't really know what I wanted to be when I grew up. However, I did know I wanted to do something that would make a difference in the world.

Starting in my late twenties, the one constant in my life were some very sporadic, very unusual and extremely lifelike dreams. While I was often advised to write them down, I didn't. Not until I dreamed about Ancient Egypt and Queen Nefertiti. Because of that dream, "The Curse of Nefertiti" came to fruition, and I've been writing (almost non-stop) ever since.

But, I don't just write adult fiction. I also write children's books. I'm a professional book reviewer. I occasionally ghost write stories/articles, and I've also started interviewing for both my website/blog as well as for Tour de Blogg.

With regards to finding out more about my services, (reviews, interviewing, publishing, et cetera), it's probably easiest to email me at: Charline@CharlineRatcliff.com or visit my website: www.CharlineRatcliff.com     

2. You're a writer, photographer and publicist. Is there anything I've left out? What do you like doing the most?

*chuckle* In the creative world there isn't a lot that I don't do, but, I have had to pare it down because let's face it – there's only so much time in a day. The main things I can be found working on are: writing projects, photography, working with glass for jewelry/small projects, and soy candle making.

The above four are all my favorites although, working with the sea glass I find, or fusing/slumping plain/colored glass into a beautiful creation is right up at the top.

3. Do you have any new projects you're working on?

I'm wrapping up another historical fiction novel that is set in Pompeii prior to the destruction of the town by Mount Vesuvius. I'm also working on a third storybook in "The Princess, The Toad & The Whale" series.

Non-writing related (sort of) I'm finishing with the setup of my own publishing company.

4. I like what you stand for on the home page of your website. It's a lot like what I feel, too. One of the things we care about together is helping others. What do you do for others? How do you reach out?

Those are "big" questions to answer in a "little" amount of space as there are many ways to help people.
To sum up:

·         I strive to bring entertainment and joy to my readers so that they can enjoy some stress free moments.
·         I hope to help children learn to read, or share bonding experiences with their parents/family through my storybooks.
·         I also provide easy to understand messages in these storybooks. For example, friends come in all shapes, sizes and colors, and, new situations don't have to be scary if you just give them time.
·         I always attempt to help other writers – I am aware of the need out there for reviewers, reasonably priced publishing options, et cetera.
·         When able, I also coach authors who are struggling to finish their writing projects.
·         Lastly, I have my own personal story of overcoming major adversities to share.

5. Thank you for this interview. Any final thoughts for our readers?

Thank you for having me, Linda.

My final comment would be to: Always remember to believe in yourself. With belief, anything and everything, is possible.

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