Author Erica Hayes interviews Me

Urban Fantasy Author Erica Hayes interviewed me about Flank Hawk and my writing. (My first author interview)


Here is a link to the interview: Author Interview: Terry W. Ervin II.


Don't hesitate to leave a comment there (and/or here) and let us know what you think.



Erica Hayes is the author of the Shadowfae Chronicles. Her novel Shadowfae was released a couple weeks before Flank Hawk. Her second novel, Shadowglass, is due out in March of 2010.

A John Wayne Quote

“Life is hard; it's harder if you're stupid.” --John Wayne

This statment is:

a. Funny
b. So true

c. From a far less politically correct time

d. All of the above

I have been and will always remain a John Wayne fan. I'd have to say my favorite John Wayne movie is Big Jake. It was my dad's favorite too.

C. Dean Andersson's Blurb for Flank Hawk

"FLANK HAWK’s characters skewer you on page one, then the plot kicks your butt! Grab hold! Ervin's got the magic!"

--C. Dean Andersson, author of the Bloodsong Trilogy

In addition to his blurb of Flank Hawk, C. Dean Andersson posted this review on Amazon.com:

"When Terry Ervin asked me to read an advanced copy of Flank Hawk, I hesitated at first, not sure I could find the time in my own writing schedule, but when I heard what it was about, I said yes, and I'm glad I did! Also, for full disclosure purposes here, although there is no money in it for me, understand, whatsoever, I was glad to put my name on a "blurb" I afterward wrote for the cover (and Christine M. Griffin did a great job of painting that cover, seems to me, an artist to watch out for--speaking from experience,cover paintings can be tricky little devils to get right!)...but the bottom line is, that looking back, I still agree with the way I felt at the time I read the advanced copy...I ended the blurb I wrote for Flank Hawk with, "Ervin's got the magic!" And I still feel it's true. Amazon's "see inside the book" feature allows you to read the first page, so if you've got a minute to do that, see if that first page grabs you like it did me...I wanted to keep reading immediately, and it's a rare book that produces that effect in me, these days...a bit jaded, you know? But this book did it for me, and I look forward now to seeing what Ervin's going to come up with next!"

I've really enjoyed C. Dean Andersson's works over the years, especially the Bloodsong Saga. If you ever get the chance, you should check out his work. Strong, interesting characters and well-written action that keeps you turning the pages.

The bottom line is that I am truly honored that Mr. Andersson has spoken so highly of my writing.

Referenced by Ask.com

Those who’ve visited my website know I’ve written a number of articles on writing. Their content has been drawn from my experience as an English teacher and a writer. The objective has always been to provide information and insight to assist other writers.

The vast majority of my articles have been published by Fiction Factor. Several have been reprinted in various newsletters and two have been used as instructional material both at writing conferences and in the classroom.

I don’t know if it’s a mark of validation, but I find it pretty cool that at least one of my articles (Direct vs. Indirect Characterization) is referenced by Ask.com. I don’t know the vetting process (if there is one) but the result is that more individuals might access my article and hopefully acquire a little knowledge--which is exactly the reason I wrote it.

UVJVS Students Support Cancer Research

October 30, 2009 was THINK PINK Day at Upper Valley JVS (where I work). The Med Tech Program organized the event featuring a colossal human “Pink Ribbon” in observance of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The goal was to promote the awareness, research and to celebrate the inspiration of those affected by the disease.

Almost $700.00 was raised by the students (through $1.00 donations). The photo was taken by Piqua Daily Call photographer Mike Ullery.

My Philosophy of Supporting Employees

I believe human interaction is important. I also believe that entry level jobs are important, whether they are held by teenagers part-time or adults working to support themselves and/or their family.

As such, I avoid self-checkout aisles, and at the gas station I don't pay with a credit card at the pump whenever possible. I pay (even via credit card) through an actual person--an employee. I don't direct deposit or use an ATM card--I go to a teller at the bank.

Employers watch and pay attention. If a worker doesn't serve customers, they are not longer needed. If the employer deems a position as "no longer needed," the job disappears. Individuals that hold that "no longer needed" position are out of job.

Sure, they could get additional training and get a better job--one that pays better and has benefits, etc., but they are either working entry level jobs (such as a cashier), or jobs that could be eliminated if faceless automation takes over (such as with a bank teller). Even more, I am polite and strive to greet the individual with a kind word or comment. Just because the job doesn't pay well doesn't mean it is fun and stress free.

Yep, call me old fashioned. It takes a little more time and effort, but I think it's the right thing to do.

Article: Writing a Novel Synopsis

Fiction Factor published my article Writing a Novel Synopsis. For those visitors here who novelist (or aspiring novelists) creating a brief, effective synopsis can be quite a challenge.

If you're a writer or have an interest, take a look and see what you think.