Thursday – A little Personal Interview with John Fioravanti #RRBC

January 26, 2017January 25, 2017 ~ John W. Howell ~ 108 Comments

John Fioravanti

I want to welcome a friend of mine, John Fioravanti. John and I met at Rave Reviews Book Club and realized we share a number of interests. Also, we are both over 65, so there is that as well. John is a very talented author and has been quite busy since retiring from his teaching responsibilities. John lives in Waterloo, Ontario and has graciously consented to a visit here with me today.

Hi John and welcome. Help yourself to the coffee.

Thank you very much, John. I’m honoured to visit here at “Fiction Favorites”. Mmmm, great coffee!

Thank you. I got the recipe from a friend of mine. Well now if you are comfy why don’t we get to the questions.

Tell us a little about yourself, John. I know you spent your working life as a history teacher but after that what made you decide to become a writer?

One of my passions in the classroom was to teach writing skills–within the context of my history lessons. I knew then I had a gift to write well, but I never thought of writing outside educational skills manuals until the end of my teaching career.

What a career it has been so far. You have four of your own books published, one anthology and in at least three genres. Tell my readers a little about your writing discipline. How are you able to stay with your writing regimen?

My writing discipline could be much more disciplined! However, almost everything I write is on a keyboard – I use pen and paper for rough notes. When I sit with pen in hand, I find it difficult to write anything of value. When I’m behind the keyboard, the magic begins to happen, and ideas flow from my head to my fingers. I can’t explain it, but that’s my reality.

Interesting. I feel the same way at the keyboard. Okay, so you have done some memoirs, Sci-fi fiction, and a collection of reflections. Let me ask what genre or book was the most fun for you to write?

Writing fiction is the most enjoyable writing that I do. I don’t write classic science fiction, but rather, I write about human drama in a science fiction universe. I thoroughly enjoy exploring life on planet Genesis, seven centuries into the future. I never thought I could write fiction, nor did I have a burning desire to do so. Kenneth Tam, my former student, and prolific novelist challenged me to write within the sci-fi universe that he created for his Equations novels. Fiction is delightfully creative and a great escape for the writer.

You mention the planet Genesis. Let’s turn a minute to the Genesis Saga. First, tell us a little about the inspiration for this series.

As I mentioned earlier, the inspiration for the Genesis Saga was Kenneth Tam’s eight-book Equations series. There is a forty-year gap in the middle of the series – a period of peace between two intergalactic wars. I complained to him that I wanted to know what happened during that peacetime. He challenged me to write those stories. So, my Genesis Saga tells what happened to the people of Genesis between Kenneth’s Book 4 and Book 5.

Now, give us a brief overview of the Saga. What is the story about?

John Fioravanti — Click Cover for Amazon

The people of Genesis are the descendants of the humans who escaped a killer self-aware virus in the late 21 st Century. The UN sent 1 million survivors out into space in a great colonizer ship to find planet Genesis and begin human civilisation anew, after a 95-year journey, the ship arrives at Genesis, and the grandchildren of the original survivors began to settle their new world. The Genesis Saga picks up the story 600 years after that arrival point when their civilisation is teetering on the edge of self-destruction.

Sounds very exciting. I know you have been posting a prequel to the Genesis Saga in a serial format on your blog. Tell us about the story you are telling.

Kenneth Tam created this universe, but he begins his novels just five years before the Genesis Saga. Therefore, the stories about the first 600 years of human history on Genesis have not been written. I asked Kenneth for permission to create that early history, and he encouraged me to continue. The short posts in the “Genesis Chronicles” on the Fiora Books website are experimental forays into this period. After writing 23 of these posts, I am very excited about that time in Genesis history

That sounds great, John. Do you anticipate publishing a book about the prequel to the Genesis Saga?

A month ago I asked Kenneth Tam for permission to create a new series of novels I’ve been writing. He thinks it is a promising idea and encouraged me to think about writing both series at the same time. I think I will go ahead with the project.

How about the Saga itself? Can we expect another book?

I have started the third book in The Genesis Saga, and the original plan was for an 8-book series. I want to finish telling the story of the developments on Genesis to the end of that 40-year peacetime.

What are you currently working on?

I’m working on the general outline for Book 3 as mentioned earlier, and I want to begin planning the new series – which I haven’t named yet. As well I write two blog posts per week.

You are very busy. What is the most challenging thing about writing for you and why?

One of the demons I’ve always struggled with is that of self-doubt. I find that it causes me to hesitate and it forms a roadblock that I have to overcome to get to the serious job of writing. Once I start, the magic begins to happen. I call it ‘magic’ because I don’t know where this ability to create fiction emanates.

Self-doubt tends to haunt us all. What can we expect from you in the years to come?

Lots of new books, I hope! I want to finish the Genesis Saga and its sister series. As well, I plan to write more inspirational non-fiction. I enjoy writing reflections based on quotes that I find because that exercise helps me to clarify, for myself, many aspects of what it takes to live my life well.

How about the personal John? (After all, this is the title of the post) What do you like to do in your spare time and do you have a family?

John and Anne Fioravanti

Anne and I married when we were just 22 years of age – and she still puts up with me! We have three children and three grandchildren. Fortunately, we all live in the Kitchener-Waterloo area. In our spare time, Anne and I love to attend live theatre performances. In each of the last five years, we spent a week in the winter on Caribbean cruises.

Where can my readers reach you?

My Fiora Books website: www.fiorabooks.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JohnJFioravanti and https://twitter.com/FioraBooks

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/john.f.fioravanti

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/John-Fioravanti/e/B00JSAHGAU

John’s other books.

His latest.

His First.

‘Thank you so much, John we are all going to look forward to your work. Thank you for visiting my blog. Here have an American IPA I know it’s not as good as your Molson Ale but it must do for now.

A Big Thank You to John Fioravanti for Helping Launch #Newbook Our Justice

September 8, 2016 ~ John W. Howell ~ 2 Comments

Passion and struggle TT-Cover-Final-LSI4 copy John Fioravanti

A big thank you, John Fioravanti, for your post introducing Our Justice. You can visit the post HERE.

Tuesday – Anything Possible – Treachery & Triumph Tour #RRBC

March 1, 2016March 1, 2016 ~ John W. Howell ~ 72 Comments

I am very happy to welcome my good friend John Fioravanti to Fiction Favorites. He is on tour and stopping on my site today. John the post is yours.

TREACHERY & TRIUMPH BLOG TOUR:
Nonnie Returns To Genesis – Episode 3

GIVEAWAYS:
(Leave a comment each day to be entered to win one of these prizes)

(1) $10 Amazon Gift Card
(2) $5 Amazon Gift Cards
(2) ebook copy of “TREACHERY & TRIUMPH.”

GRAND GIVEAWAY:
Anyone who purchases a copy of “TREACHERY & TRIUMPH” and sends to me a copy of the purchase receipt to jfinwat@gmail.com, and leaves a comment along the tour, will get their name entered into a drawing for a $25 Amazon gift card! One entry for each book that is purchased, whether in e-book or paperback format. Purchases must take place between 2/28 – 3/05/2016. If you’ve already purchased one of the books, then feel free to gift a friend, just for the chance to win!! Spend a little, and you could win a lot!!! If you leave a review on Amazon, you will earn a second entry for this prize. Reviews must be posted between 2/29/16 and 3/29/16.

TT-Cover-Final-LSI4 copy

EPISODE 3

Several months ago, renowned interviewer and author, Nonnie Jules, accompanied author, John Fioravanti to planet Genesis seven centuries into the future. Dr. John, as he’s called on Genesis, possesses unusual teleportation powers, which he uses to travel through time and space. He can travel with another person just by laying his hand upon them.

Yesterday, we witnessed a meeting between Nonnie, John and Andra Ursla, Earther Ambassador to Genesis. Nonnie expressed an interest in learning more about what makes Marco Rossini tick, so she thought a chat with his lead security agent might enlighten her further.

Our intrepid pair disappeared from the Earther Embassy and reappeared on the sidewalk outside the Campus Café – just across the university campus from Marco’s residence.

(Nonnie takes in a deep breath as she orients herself and releases John’s arm. John leaves her side, peeks into the Café window, nods, and returns to his friend.)

John: “He’s in there, Nonnie. Are you okay or do you need another minute?”

Nonnie: “I’m fine. Believe it or not, I think I’m getting used to popping in and out of thin air. Let’s go in… ugh… it’s too hot and humid out here!”

(John opens the door for her and follows her inside. Nonnie spots the waitress that served them on their last visit and flags her down, whereupon the waitress gives out a whoop and almost runs to meet her.)

Nonnie: “Suzie! How’s my baby?”

(The two hug each other briefly and Suzie steps away)

Suzie: “Oh, Mrs. Jules, I’m just so happy to see you again! Please, come and meet a friend of mine.”

(Suzie leads them to a corner booth on the far side of the café. Enroute, Nonnie stops to say hello to every person she passes. When she arrives, she finds another man greeting John and Suzie.)

Suzie: “Ted Gallo, this is Mrs. Jules – a very special lady and good friend of Dr. John.”

(Before Ted can respond, Nonnie steps forward and offers her hand.)

Nonnie: “Hello Captain Gallo, I’m Nonnie!” (turning to Suzie) “How did you know we came to see the captain?”

Suzie: (Grinning at John) “Let’s call it female intuition, shall we? Can I get coffee for everyone?”

(All three agree. Ted slides into the seat he occupied before their arrival and John slides in beside him. Nonnie takes the seat opposite the two men.)

John: “Nonnie, are you sure about the coffee? You know, if Marlena finds out…”

Nonnie: (Cuts him off in mid-sentence somewhat annoyed.) “I’m sure!” (Turns to address Ted Gallo with a sweet smile.) “You know, Captain, there’s something about that man (Points at John) that makes me want coffee every time we meet… he just unnerves me!”

(John stifles a laugh while Ted looks from one to the other clearly amused.)

Ted: “Nonnie, I’m really pleased that Dr. John asked me to meet you. I understand you’re a writer. I’ve never met a published author before, so I’m honored. And please call me Ted.”

Nonnie: “John and I had a meeting with Marco last year, and then I heard about the explosion on the hybrid Battlecruiser that almost killed him. I know that you’re in charge of his security, so I wanted to meet you. Say, why aren’t you with Marco right now?”

Ted: “My day off, Nonnie. James Drury takes over lead and we bring another man in when I’m off. I’m very happy to meet you too. Marco speaks warmly about his meeting with you two last year. I’m curious… why do you want to talk to me?”

(Suzie arrives with their coffee, Nonnie thanks her and she leaves to attend to other customers. Nonnie lifts her cup, inhales the rich aroma, and closes her eyes in thanksgiving.)

Nonnie: “I just adore the smell of fresh coffee!”

(She looks at Ted and ignores John who’s grinning and wagging his finger at her disapprovingly.)

“Ted, you know the private Marco – the one the public doesn’t see. You accompanied him on Agamemnon on the return trip from Earth. Tell me, is he really okay or do you have concerns?”

Ted: (chuckles) “Yes, I have serious concerns!”

Nonnie: “Seriously? What do you mean?” Give it to me straight… no sugarcoatin!”

Ted: (Grins at her) “I fear for the well-being of any Rouge thugs that might decide to attack him!”

Nonnie: “But he’s a former professor who almost got killed not so long ago. Why do you say that?”

Ted: (Looks at both Nonnie and John in turn and lowers his voice.)

“Our trip home from Earth took the better part of two weeks, and I worked out with Marco twice daily. We sparred – that’s hand-to-hand combat – for an hour each day. When I left the Marine Corps to join the Alpha Corps, I was the champion and head instructor for trainees. I had to use every bit of experience just to hold my own against Marco.”

John: “Really! How can that be, Ted?”

Ted: “When I started this gig after the election, Marco asked me to train him on the sparring mat. His close friend, ArcGeneral Pat Conroy, had taught him a lot over the years, so I agreed to help him along. I smiled to myself the first time we faced each other. I wasn’t smiling for long! He was good. Now he’s faster, stronger and he has a warrior’s heart.”

Nonnie: “Now I understand why Andra is so impressed with him.”

Ted: “It’s a bit ironic, but as a security team, we’re confident that if we ever have to fight off attackers, Marco will have our backs! Security gigs get no better than this! Oh yes, and one more thing. Every couple of weeks his mother sends him a couple of boxes of baked goods from her oven. Marco tells us to help ourselves… oh my… can that lady bake!”

Nonnie: “Don’t you have a wife that bakes for you?”

Ted: “No, I don’t. Wish I did… but I don’t think there’s a woman out there who would put up with me and my lifestyle.”

Nonnie: “I’m sorry, I’m intruding into your private business…”

Ted: “I’m not offended.” (sighs and closes his eyes for a moment, opens them again and continues)

“Nonnie, there is someone. She’s an Alpha and I work with her quite often. She’s everything I could want in a woman, and she’d understand my work and the stresses, but…”

Nonnie: (Reaches across the table and pats his hand.) “You don’t think she’s attracted to you. You think she’d refuse you if you asked her out”.

(Ted remains mute, but nods in agreement)

“What if you’re wrong? Think about it, Ted… maybe she likes you and is afraid of messing up your professional relationship. From where I’m sitting, you have everything to gain and only your loneliness to lose.”

(Ted remains silent, lost in thought for another minute. He looks up at Nonnie and gives her a sad smile.)

Ted: “Thanks, I’ll give your words a lot of thought.”

John: “Ted, I thank you for your time and the sharing you did with us today. We need to take our leave now. Nonnie, are you ready?”

(Nonnie slides out of her seat and waits for John and Ted to slide out as well. Ted gives her a big hug and wishes them both well. John leads the way to the door, and Nonnie follows at a discreet distance, careful not to touch him. As they emerge onto the sidewalk outside, John turns to Nonnie.)

Nonnie: “Before you whisk me off somewhere, I want to know…”

(John smiles, says something about a surprise, takes her hand… and they’re gone!)

Be sure to tune in tomorrow for… whatever happens!

To follow John’s tour, please visit the 4WillsPub home page and click on the CURRENT EVENTS tab, which will take you directly to John’s blog tour page! Thanks for stopping by today!
CONTACT VIA:

Twitter: @JohnJFioravanti, @FioraBooks
Facebook: Fiora Books Company Page
Blogs: The Genesis Lounge & My Inspiration

Passion&Struggle

TRAILERS:

“THE GENESIS SAGA (Passion & Struggle + Treachery & Triumph)

“A PERSONAL JOURNEY TO THE HEART OF TEACHING”

“This tour sponsored by 4WillsPublishing.wordpress.com.”

Thanks, to John Fioravanti for the help on the My Revenge Launch #RRBC

November 6, 2015 ~ John W. Howell ~ 2 Comments

As part of the 4Wills Publishing His Revenge Weekend Launch Tour, John Fioravanti is hosting a stop today. You can see his post HERE. I would like to give you some information about John. He is a member of Rave Reviews Book Club and an officer on the Board of Governors as well as a good friend. Thank you, John.

John Fioravanti author has written four books. You can see them on Amazon. His newest is THE GENESIS SAGA: BOOK TWO

Here is the blurb.

Marco Rossini is the Vice President of Genesis, and the civilian commander of the elite Alpha Corps special forces. His skills and courage are about to be tested in ways he could not have foreseen.

It is 2797 CE, and after centuries fractured along religious and social lines, planet Genesis is inching painfully toward unity. The civilian and Churcher executives of a new, hybrid government are convinced that without reform their society will not survive… but they are beset by challenges from fanatics who are determined to destroy all initiatives that might lead to positive change.

Marco’s close brush with death and his miraculous recovery with the help of the Earthers has steeled his resolve to fight for an egalitarian society… but can this academic-turned-political leader vanquish his enemies, save his love, and still preserve his own humanity?

The rest of his books

The Heart of Teaching Tour with #RRBC’s John Fioravanti

May 8, 2015May 4, 2015 ~ John W. Howell ~ 32 Comments

A special guest on Fiction Favorites is Rave Reviews Book Club board member and Membership Director John Fioravanti. This is a stop on his The Heart of Teaching Tour. John Fiction Favorites is yours.

Thanks, John I’m grateful that you would be my host of this sixth post of THE HEART OF TEACHING TOUR, and to Nonnie Jules of 4WillsPublishing who arranged it all! The full lineup for this tour can be found @ http://wp.me/P43s9i-2g

“It would take me several more years to learn that the most valuable thing I could offer students who confided in me was a willingness to listen and caring support.”

Excerpt from John Fioravanti: A Personal Journey To The Heart of Teaching.

In a previous post, I talked about the fact that I had felt the desire to help others as far back as I can remember. It became a major motive when I decided, as a high school student, that I wanted to teach in a high school one day. I did not have an easy time of it, emotionally, during my teen years, so I readily identified with troubled teens and hoped I might be of some help to them. Unfortunately, in this respect, things didn’t turn out the way I had anticipated.

The problem wasn’t with the students; it was with me. As I developed rapport with my classes and students felt comfortable in my classroom, I found that sometimes a student would seek me out in my classroom at noon or before school in the morning. Often they shared friend problems or family issues, and in my enthusiasm to be helpful, I would try to fix their world. Even now, as I type this, I’m shaking my head in disbelief. I honestly believed that these students wanted my advice, to tell them what they should do to solve whatever problem they were experiencing. How intellectually arrogant is that? My heart was in the right place, but my head certainly wasn’t!

The truth of my folly became apparent one day when our Vice Principal came to my door. At this time I was the Student Activities Council teacher advisor, and had been for a couple of years. Once I made it into the corridor, he asked me to meet with some distraught former students in his office. He said he would take over my class and I was to stay with our visitors for as long as necessary. Wow! What was this all about? Several possibilities crossed my mind as I walked the short distance to his office. I wasn’t ready for what greeted me when I arrived.

Stepping inside that office, I was swarmed by at least a half-dozen sobbing grade 11 kids who had been my Student Council seniors the year before. I hugged them all, two at a time, before we sat down together. I didn’t know that one of their friends had been killed in a car crash the day before. I knew the boy, but not very well. The sudden revelation of this tragic news, combined with their distress, served to put me into a slight state of shock. My mind raced, What can I say to these kids? How can I make them feel better? How can I fix this? It suddenly dawned on me, that there would be no “fixing” this!

So I sat quietly and listened intently to their expressions of grief. I did not admonish them when they railed against fate for their tragic loss. I nodded in silence as they wept openly – as if to tell them that their tears are good. I honestly didn’t know what else to do! There was a war going on inside between my desire to fix the situation and my natural instinct to just sit still and let them pour out their grief. After about 45 minutes (seemed like hours), the Council President from the previous year stood, thanked me for “being here for us”, and led the rest of the group out. There were more hugs on their way out the door.

“Thank you, sir, for being here for us.” I fixed nothing, but that is not my role. This tragedy, and these grief-stricken teens, gave me one of the most valuable lessons in my career. For this, I will always be truly grateful!

Author Bio:

John Fioravanti is a retired secondary school educator who completed his thirty-five-year career in the classroom in June, 2008.

Throughout his career, John focused on developing research, analysis, and essay writing skills in his History Classroom. This led to the publication of his first non-fiction work for student use, Getting It Right in History Class. A Personal Journey to the Heart of Teaching is his second non-fiction work; it attempts to crystallize the struggles, accomplishments, and setbacks experienced in more than three decades of effort to achieve excellence in his chosen field.

John’s first work of fiction is Passion & Struggle, Book One of The Genesis Saga, and is set within Kenneth Tam’s Equations universe (Iceberg Publishing). He claims that, after two non-fiction books, he’s having the time of his life bringing new stories and characters to life!

At present, John lives in Waterloo, Ontario with Anne, his bride of forty-one years. They have three children and three grandchildren. In December of 2013, John and Anne founded Fiora Books for the express purpose of publishing John’s books.