Interview with Ashley Fontainne

Hi Ashley

Welcome to Comet Babe’s Books.

Can you please tell us about Empty Shell?

Empty Shell is a standalone, full length novel of approximately 117,000 words. It explores what true love really is and how we never really know the hearts and minds of those we call family, friends and lovers. It also delves into the reckless choice of personal vengeance and how, even when technology and science point to one conclusion, it isn’t always the truth. The story is told from the perspective of Melody Dickinson as she struggles to come to terms with her new life after her old one is stripped away. It also explores faith, loyalty and strength during times of crisis, all tied together with an explosive mystery, set in central Arkansas.

Empty Shell has a wonderful cover can you tell us more about it?

Thank you for the compliment! This was my first attempt at creating a book cover and I love it. The idea for the concept came to me after I wrote the following line in the story, which is a conversation Melody is having with her elderly neighbor:

“The livin’ eventually come to terms with dyin.’”

“I sure hope so,” I sniffled.

“You will, child. Trust me. God comforts those who ask, even when the tidal waves of life are tryin’ to drown them.”

Can you tell us about your writing process?

I still work a fulltime job, so I write usually at lunch or after I arrive home for the night. When a story hits me, I type like a crazy person to release it! I happen to type around 90 wpm, so that almost matches the speed of my thoughts.

How old were you when you started writing?

I have been writing ever since I was a teenager, but never really showed anyone my musings. It wasn’t until in college in my early 40s that my Creative Writing teacher urged me to explore what she felt was a talent.

Are any of your characters based on people you know?

I think all characters in books, movies, televisions shows, etc., carry a smidgeon of people we know.

Do you have a support network for your writing?

I am a part of several social media groups full of talented, seasoned authors who are kind enough to help me through the journey.

What items are on your desk/where you write?

Water (or wine, depending on whether I’m at home or work!)

Do you have a routine for your writing? ie time of day.

One day, when I make the plunge and take up writing as a fulltime career, I will. Now, it is really hit or miss.

If one of your books was made into a film/TV series, who would you like as the leading lady/man?

Actually, two of my books have been optioned for film!Number Seventy-Five is currently in production (www.number75themovie.com) and the lead actress, Sabrina Stewart, also narrated the audio version of the book. The other book I just optioned, The Lie, will also have Ms. Stewart in a role, but I won’t tell you which one until the casting is complete! J

Tell us something about yourself that readers won’t know from reading your books or web page?

I am absolutely petrified of spiders. It doesn’t matter how small they are, I run screaming in the other direction. I was bitten by a black widow during my teenage years, and an obnoxious neighborhood bully threw a tarantula in my hair when I was about seven years old. Those two events sealed my terror for the eight-legged freaks.

Non book questions

Favourite holiday place?

 At home with all of my family.

Favourite food?

 Italian, hands down.

What kind of music do you listen to?

Depends on my mood. I love classic rock, heavy metal, punk, jazz, hip-hop, blues, you name it. Pretty much anything except country.

Favourite film?

 Aliens, starring Sigourney Weaver.

Favourite Chocolate?

Reeces Peanut Butter Cups

Favourite drink?

Barefoot Moscato

Thank you for answering my questions.