I have compiled a list of questions taken from old interviews and reader e-mails and created a FAQ post! Don't see the answers you are looking for? To ask me any additional questions, shoot me an e-mail at [email protected] or join my new Facebook Fan page HERE! I love hearing from my readers!
Q: When can we Expect the Release of your Third Novel?
A: By far, the most frequently asked question concerns the release date of my new book! I am very excited about the release of my third novel this year...2011 is going to be a special year for me! Unfortunately, there is not too much that I can reveal about a specific release date right now! I appreciate your patience; I thrive on your interest, and I look forward to announcing the release date information, along with dates for the book tour, very soon! I have always had faith that God is going to use this new book in mighty ways for His glory! I know that many of you have been anticipating the new release for quite a while, but I truly feel like this one is worth the wait! Your support means the world to me, and I can't wait to get this book in your hands SOON!
Q: What Genre do your Books Fall Under?
A: My books are classified as Southern, Christian Fiction. It was such a natural fit for me. I am a proud, Southern girl; I feel led to share my faith, and I have always been inspired by stories about characters who have overcome real-life issues. So, for me, Southern, Christian Fiction seemed like the perfect union!
Read my blog about Young Adult Fiction!
Read my blog about Reaching Teen Readers!
Read my blog about Christian Fiction!
Q: Are you Currently Accepting Speaking Engagements?A: Yes! For any inquiries about speaking engagements, please e-mail me ([email protected]) and be sure to include your name, the event, date, time, any topics of interest and any contact information you would like me to have. Each inquiry will be reviewed on an individual basis, but, if I feel that God is leading me to participate, I will most certainly be there! I love speaking to different groups and always get such a blessing out of it!
Q: Do you Like Doing Book Signings?
A: I love doing book signings because I enjoy the opportunity to speak face-to-face with the people who are reading my work. I find it incredibly interesting to hear what people have to say…which characters they related to most and why. Every book signing that I have done has been a very positive experience, thanks to all of the wonderful people who have come out to support me. I will never be able to thank all of you enough for your continued support.
Feedback from my fans is always appreciated! Click on the links below to see what fans had to say about In a Brother's Eyes: the Brant McLachlan Story and For Such a Time as This.
Q: Is Aiken Brown your Real Name or a Pen Name?
A: I love this question! It has tickled me that, over the years, I have been asked this question rather frequently. Aiken Brown is indeed my birth name; it's not a pseudonym as many people seem to believe. It's unique, and often mispronounced, yet I wear my Nana's maiden name proudly! As for those of you who have suggested that it just sounds like an author's name...thank you very much...I guess it was meant to be!
Q: When did you Know you Wanted to Become an Author?
A: I always had an active imagination. For as long as I can remember, I made up stories in my head for my own entertainment. When I was in the fourth grade, we had creative writing each week. My teacher chose the best stories to be read in front of the class. I remember that some of my classmates were shy about reading their work aloud. I, however, had discovered my greatest passion. When I was in the fifth grade, my class visited the school book fair, and I used the money that my mom had sent with me to purchase a book that would change my life. It sits on my bookshelf to this day. As a fifth grade student, I could not put the book down; it excited the writer in me. I knew, without a doubt, that all the stories written on notebook paper back home in my drawer were not just a favorite hobby…but, my future career. From short stories, written as a kid, I evolved to writing novels because short stories, in my estimation, never provide the detail that I am looking for as a reader. I want people to know the characters that I write about as well as I do, so character development is something that I always pay particular attention to.
Q:Who is Your Favorite Character from your First Two Novels?
A: Oh, that is like asking a mother to choose a favorite child! I love each of them for their individuality. Like a good parent, I’m not blinded to their faults, but I root them on in hopes that they will overcome whatever stands in their way and, in doing so, become all that they can be. People naturally assume that, as the author, I have total control over the fate of my characters, but I will attest to the fact that they very much take on a life of their own and guide me in the way that they must go.
Q:What is your Favorite Novel by Another Author?
A: Here is a list I compiled in 2009! Of course, I am always adding new favorites to the running list in my head! Pat Conroy, Nicholas Sparks and Jodi Picoult are some of my all-time favorites, however!
Q: What is your Inspiration for Writing?
A: Writing is my great passion. My characters inspire me. They take on a life of their own and tell me their own stories. Every book is inspired by something different, of course, but, what keeps me writing is my belief that God has given each of His children spiritual gifts that we are required to use for His glory! God has given me the gift of the written word, and it is my duty, and also my pleasure, to use that gift that He has given me. God has given everyone different gifts that all work together for His glory. I believe that discovering your spiritual gifts and being prepared and willing to use them is expected of those who seek a closer relationship with God.
Q:Do you Only Write Fiction, or do you also Write Nonfiction?
A: While I love reading nonfiction, and do so quite often, my one venture into the world of nonfiction was enough to remind me why I am addicted to the creative process involved in writing a novel. There is far too much fact checking involved in nonfiction, and, in my opinion, the players too frequently screw up their lines! Hehe! I was intrigued, though not entirely surprised, to hear the incomparable John Grisham express the same exact sentiments after publishing his nonfiction Bestseller The Innocent Man (highly recommended). Yet, what I also recall is that Grisham claimed he had never been so proud of a book as he was of his nonfiction work, because, while writing novels comes to him naturally, completing and accurately portraying a true story of justice gone horribly awry was a whole new challenge. I can appreciate that sense of accomplishment that he felt upon the book's completion, and, for that reason, I would never completely rule out nonfiction in the future. If the right opportunity arose, I might be up for the challenge, but my love is creating a story from scratch, watching it develop and seeing what it turns into.
Q: Do all your Novels have to do with Sports?
A: I grew up playing sports. I come from a very sports-oriented family. We are dedicated Alabama Football fans! I love all different kinds of sports! My books are about the South, and sports are such a huge part of the landscape here. The actual sport itself is never the overriding theme of the book, however; the focus on athletics deals more with the role it played in shaping the life and character of the protagonist.
Q: Is there a sequel to In a Brother's Eyes: the Brant McLachlan Story?
A: I have been asked this a lot. I wouldn’t call it a sequel, but there is definitely a future book that catches up with members of the McLachlan clan. It's already been completed, and I can't wait for y'all to read it!
Q: Where Can I Find the Blogs Submitted During your Guest Blogger Series?
A: The Guest Blogger submissions were all posted on the website! For those of you who may have missed them, they can be found here:
A: I would first point you to 1 Timothy 4:12-14. "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands on you. " Secondly, I would urge you not to misunderstand the scripture; public speaking or preaching may not be your strong suit! Please remember that these are instructions to young Timothy based on his spiritual gifts! However, lastly, and most importantly, I assure you that we have ALL been given spiritual gifts, and we are all, like Timothy, expected to use them...whatever they may be! Discover them...use them! I could go on trying to eloquently explain the process and necessity of discovering your spiritual gifts. However, I will do you one better and point you to the most beautifully written explanation of this process that I have found to date. Pick up a copy of and study Day 32 of The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. (I STRONGLY recommend reading the entire book, and when you are done, starting back at the beginning and reading it all again. YES, it is that awesome!)
Q: What is your Charity of Choice?
A: First off, I would like to say that I am grateful to have the opportunity to answer this question. Many of you may know that this is actually a subject that I am incredibly passionate about. My charity of choice is the Victory Junction Gang Camp founded in honor of Adam Petty. This awesome (in every true sense of the word) camp for critically and chronically ill children is a labor of love built to fulfill the dream of an amazing nineteen-year-old young man who loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and is now in Heaven watching his dream of serving those in need become a reality for countless children and their families. This is a subject that I could easily go on about because it is so dear to my heart; I will end by saying that it is a dream of mine to one day be in the position to do a national book tour with the entirety of the proceeds going to Victory Junction.
One of my dreams came true in December 2010, when I completed the Run to Victory!
Q: When can we Expect the Release of your Third Novel?
A: By far, the most frequently asked question concerns the release date of my new book! I am very excited about the release of my third novel this year...2011 is going to be a special year for me! Unfortunately, there is not too much that I can reveal about a specific release date right now! I appreciate your patience; I thrive on your interest, and I look forward to announcing the release date information, along with dates for the book tour, very soon! I have always had faith that God is going to use this new book in mighty ways for His glory! I know that many of you have been anticipating the new release for quite a while, but I truly feel like this one is worth the wait! Your support means the world to me, and I can't wait to get this book in your hands SOON!
Q: What Genre do your Books Fall Under?
A: My books are classified as Southern, Christian Fiction. It was such a natural fit for me. I am a proud, Southern girl; I feel led to share my faith, and I have always been inspired by stories about characters who have overcome real-life issues. So, for me, Southern, Christian Fiction seemed like the perfect union!
Read my blog about Young Adult Fiction!
Read my blog about Reaching Teen Readers!
Read my blog about Christian Fiction!
Q: Are you Currently Accepting Speaking Engagements?A: Yes! For any inquiries about speaking engagements, please e-mail me ([email protected]) and be sure to include your name, the event, date, time, any topics of interest and any contact information you would like me to have. Each inquiry will be reviewed on an individual basis, but, if I feel that God is leading me to participate, I will most certainly be there! I love speaking to different groups and always get such a blessing out of it!
Q: Do you Like Doing Book Signings?
A: I love doing book signings because I enjoy the opportunity to speak face-to-face with the people who are reading my work. I find it incredibly interesting to hear what people have to say…which characters they related to most and why. Every book signing that I have done has been a very positive experience, thanks to all of the wonderful people who have come out to support me. I will never be able to thank all of you enough for your continued support.
Feedback from my fans is always appreciated! Click on the links below to see what fans had to say about In a Brother's Eyes: the Brant McLachlan Story and For Such a Time as This.
Q: Is Aiken Brown your Real Name or a Pen Name?
A: I love this question! It has tickled me that, over the years, I have been asked this question rather frequently. Aiken Brown is indeed my birth name; it's not a pseudonym as many people seem to believe. It's unique, and often mispronounced, yet I wear my Nana's maiden name proudly! As for those of you who have suggested that it just sounds like an author's name...thank you very much...I guess it was meant to be!
Q: When did you Know you Wanted to Become an Author?
A: I always had an active imagination. For as long as I can remember, I made up stories in my head for my own entertainment. When I was in the fourth grade, we had creative writing each week. My teacher chose the best stories to be read in front of the class. I remember that some of my classmates were shy about reading their work aloud. I, however, had discovered my greatest passion. When I was in the fifth grade, my class visited the school book fair, and I used the money that my mom had sent with me to purchase a book that would change my life. It sits on my bookshelf to this day. As a fifth grade student, I could not put the book down; it excited the writer in me. I knew, without a doubt, that all the stories written on notebook paper back home in my drawer were not just a favorite hobby…but, my future career. From short stories, written as a kid, I evolved to writing novels because short stories, in my estimation, never provide the detail that I am looking for as a reader. I want people to know the characters that I write about as well as I do, so character development is something that I always pay particular attention to.
Q:Who is Your Favorite Character from your First Two Novels?
A: Oh, that is like asking a mother to choose a favorite child! I love each of them for their individuality. Like a good parent, I’m not blinded to their faults, but I root them on in hopes that they will overcome whatever stands in their way and, in doing so, become all that they can be. People naturally assume that, as the author, I have total control over the fate of my characters, but I will attest to the fact that they very much take on a life of their own and guide me in the way that they must go.
Q:What is your Favorite Novel by Another Author?
A: Here is a list I compiled in 2009! Of course, I am always adding new favorites to the running list in my head! Pat Conroy, Nicholas Sparks and Jodi Picoult are some of my all-time favorites, however!
Q: What is your Inspiration for Writing?
A: Writing is my great passion. My characters inspire me. They take on a life of their own and tell me their own stories. Every book is inspired by something different, of course, but, what keeps me writing is my belief that God has given each of His children spiritual gifts that we are required to use for His glory! God has given me the gift of the written word, and it is my duty, and also my pleasure, to use that gift that He has given me. God has given everyone different gifts that all work together for His glory. I believe that discovering your spiritual gifts and being prepared and willing to use them is expected of those who seek a closer relationship with God.
Q:Do you Only Write Fiction, or do you also Write Nonfiction?
A: While I love reading nonfiction, and do so quite often, my one venture into the world of nonfiction was enough to remind me why I am addicted to the creative process involved in writing a novel. There is far too much fact checking involved in nonfiction, and, in my opinion, the players too frequently screw up their lines! Hehe! I was intrigued, though not entirely surprised, to hear the incomparable John Grisham express the same exact sentiments after publishing his nonfiction Bestseller The Innocent Man (highly recommended). Yet, what I also recall is that Grisham claimed he had never been so proud of a book as he was of his nonfiction work, because, while writing novels comes to him naturally, completing and accurately portraying a true story of justice gone horribly awry was a whole new challenge. I can appreciate that sense of accomplishment that he felt upon the book's completion, and, for that reason, I would never completely rule out nonfiction in the future. If the right opportunity arose, I might be up for the challenge, but my love is creating a story from scratch, watching it develop and seeing what it turns into.
Q: Do all your Novels have to do with Sports?
A: I grew up playing sports. I come from a very sports-oriented family. We are dedicated Alabama Football fans! I love all different kinds of sports! My books are about the South, and sports are such a huge part of the landscape here. The actual sport itself is never the overriding theme of the book, however; the focus on athletics deals more with the role it played in shaping the life and character of the protagonist.
Q: Is there a sequel to In a Brother's Eyes: the Brant McLachlan Story?
A: I have been asked this a lot. I wouldn’t call it a sequel, but there is definitely a future book that catches up with members of the McLachlan clan. It's already been completed, and I can't wait for y'all to read it!
Q: Where Can I Find the Blogs Submitted During your Guest Blogger Series?
A: The Guest Blogger submissions were all posted on the website! For those of you who may have missed them, they can be found here:
- Let's Hear it For the Girls
- Not Just Another Football Book
- Friendship
- Finally, a Book my Daughter and I BOTH Enjoyed
- Shades of Kingsbury
- Importance of Family in the South
- The Esther Connection
- When Times Get Tough
- The Family that Prays Together Stays Together
- Always Have Faith
A: I would first point you to 1 Timothy 4:12-14. "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands on you. " Secondly, I would urge you not to misunderstand the scripture; public speaking or preaching may not be your strong suit! Please remember that these are instructions to young Timothy based on his spiritual gifts! However, lastly, and most importantly, I assure you that we have ALL been given spiritual gifts, and we are all, like Timothy, expected to use them...whatever they may be! Discover them...use them! I could go on trying to eloquently explain the process and necessity of discovering your spiritual gifts. However, I will do you one better and point you to the most beautifully written explanation of this process that I have found to date. Pick up a copy of and study Day 32 of The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. (I STRONGLY recommend reading the entire book, and when you are done, starting back at the beginning and reading it all again. YES, it is that awesome!)
Q: What is your Charity of Choice?
A: First off, I would like to say that I am grateful to have the opportunity to answer this question. Many of you may know that this is actually a subject that I am incredibly passionate about. My charity of choice is the Victory Junction Gang Camp founded in honor of Adam Petty. This awesome (in every true sense of the word) camp for critically and chronically ill children is a labor of love built to fulfill the dream of an amazing nineteen-year-old young man who loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and is now in Heaven watching his dream of serving those in need become a reality for countless children and their families. This is a subject that I could easily go on about because it is so dear to my heart; I will end by saying that it is a dream of mine to one day be in the position to do a national book tour with the entirety of the proceeds going to Victory Junction.
One of my dreams came true in December 2010, when I completed the Run to Victory!
