Online for Authors Episode 6-25-26

​A Past That Won’t Stay Buried: One Man’s Return to a Deadly Truth with Author S.A. McLain

Welcome back to "Online for Authors," where today, I'm thrilled to share a captivating conversation with S.A. McLain, the talented author behind the riveting wildlife crime thriller, "Blood on the Veld." Sherri has a knack for weaving intricate tales that captivate the mind and stir the emotions, all while raising awareness about issues that deeply resonate with her.

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An Adventure Awaits
"Blood on the Veld" isn't your typical crime thriller. It's a complex tapestry of adventure, mystery, and action told through the eyes of Christian Bekker, a conservation programs director who is pulled into a world of wildlife trafficking after uncovering secrets from his past. With guilt and personal baggage in tow, Christian embarks on a journey back to South Africa, leading readers through a gripping narrative filled with twists and revelations.

The Spark of Creation: Inspiration and Research
During our chat, Sherri shared her journey from writing literary fiction to delving into the thriller genre. Her passion for wildlife conservation fueled this story and serves as a powerful backdrop to Christian's quest. A suggestion from a "how-to" writing book encouraged Sherri to explore the things she loves and hates, leading to the core theme of wildlife trafficking. This theme not only drives the story forward but also educates readers on the often-hidden world of illicit animal trade.

Sherri’s dedication to authenticity shines through her meticulous research process. She traveled to South Africa, immersing herself in the environment that shapes her narrative. Conversations with experts—from wildlife detectives to conservation programs directors—added depth and realism to her characters. Sherri's commitment to getting the details right is a testament to her respect for the subject matter and her readers.

Character Creation: More than Just a Protagonist
While Christian is at the heart of the story, Sherri’s fondness for her secondary characters is evident. Ruben and Annalee, each with their unique characteristics and backgrounds, enrich the narrative and provide a layered experience for readers. Annalee, who evolved from a mere supporting role to a vital component of the story, exemplifies Sherri’s organic storytelling style, allowing characters to grow and surprise even her during the writing process.

Plotting vs. Pantsing: Navigating the Writing Process
Our conversation delved into the contrasting approaches between plotting and pantsing. While Sherri identifies as a plotter, ensuring she has a well-outlined path before diving into writing, I shared my more freewheeling, organic writing style. Both methods have their merits, and it’s clear that Sherri has found a balance that works for her, allowing creativity to flourish within a structured framework.

Publishing Path: A Journey with Black Rose Writing
Sherri’s journey as an author took an exciting turn when her book found a home with Black Rose Writing. Initially opting for indie publishing to retain creative control, she realized the need for a supportive framework to amplify her reach. Black Rose Writing stepped in as an ideal partner, guiding her through the publishing process and helping "Blood on the Veld" gain the attention it deserves.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Sherri
With her next book set against the vibrant backdrop of Tokyo, Sherri continues to explore new horizons. Her travels and experiences promise to bring fresh perspectives and thrilling narratives to her readers. 

Sherri is eager to hear from fellow readers and writers, and she's more than happy to engage in conversations about her books and her experiences in the publishing world. 

Thank you for joining us on this insightful journey with Sherri McLain. Her passion for storytelling and dedication to her craft truly make "Blood on the Veld" a must-read. Until next time, keep exploring and discovering new stories with "Online for Authors!"

Purchase Blood on the Veld on Amazon:
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4tjvC4y

(View additional Online for Authors episodes here)

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