From the blog of Nicholas C. Rossis, author of science fiction, the Pearseus epic fantasy series and children's books

The Liebster Award

Lauren Jeffrey has nominated me for a Liebster award, and has asked some very specific questions. Although I usually refer people to my awards page, these are so specific that they read more like an interview. As such, I’ll make an exception and answer them below!

Take it, Lauren!

1. Do you ever splurge and fly first-class?

Sadly, I can’t afford that. I have been upgraded to first-class once for free, and it was thoroughly enjoyable. I now feel bad whenever I have to watch the stewardess draw that little curtain separating me from first-class. Especially when she does that little shake of the head and gives us poor sods the look that says, “if only you’d worked a little harder”…

2. For a vacation – mountains or beach?

Pelion. It has both, and as you can see from the photos it’s absolutely gorgeous!

3. What is one thing you would try to fit in to your daily routine to improve your quality of life?

A couple of interruption-free hours each morning dedicating to writing. And a five-day weekend.

4. Are you an introvert or extrovert?

During my studying towards a Certificate in Counselling, I took the MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator). I’m officially 100% Introvert. In fact, our teacher was shocked, saying she had never seen anyone get 100% of the answers.

However, people rarely understand what these terms really mean. Introverts are people who charge their batteries, so to speak, at home. Whenever I’m away from home, I feel like a laptop that works on batteries. Unless I can plug myself back in, my energy levels just plummet.

Extroverts draw their energy from being around others, instead – preferably at open spaces. That’s why they can’t stay home; they need to recharge by going to public spaces.

5. Do you prefer the idea of self-publishing or going the traditional route? Why? And, if the later, how many rejections would it take for you to consider the former?

I have done both, and have found both to have pros and cons. Indeed, I have discussed this at length in my recent post, The Ups and Downs of Indie Life.

6. Who is your favorite author?

If I had to choose just one, I’d go for Philip K. Dick. I just love everything about him, from his writing to his anamnesis to his metaphysical references.

7. If you were a Kardashian, which one would you be?

I’m European. I don’t really know the Kardashians… Except for the curvy one; who’s that one? Or are they all curvy?

8. If you had a big wedding, would you spend the money on something else if you could do it over again? Why/why not? If you’re not married, well, skip to question 9.

We wanted to have a beach party instead of a wedding. Our parents pointed out that the sand would make it really uncomfortable for any guests wearing high heels; especially for any older ones. We settled for a ceremony that took place at a small chapel overlooking the sea. Then, we had a lovely hotel reception. All in all, over 200 people attended.

Since it was one of the best days in my life, I wouldn’t change a thing!

9. You’ve decided to change your name. What will it be?

But I have already changed my name! My name is Nicholas Rossis, and I added the middle name – hence my Nicholas C. Rossis pen name. Obviously, it would take a criminal mastermind to connect that to me.

10. Share an accomplishment for which you wish you’d been more recognized.

My cooking, especially my Mexican. I make a mean enchilada!

11. No one will ever read your book/short story/poetry. Was it still worth writing?

Ouch. Well, it depends. Will no one read it because I got cold feet and declined to put it out there? Or have I published it, but no one actually read it? In the first case, I’d say it was not worth it. But in the second, I’d say it was. Life is nothing without a little risk, and writing a book is certainly one!


 This concludes Lauren’s questions. For my list of nominees, please refer to my awards page! And don’t forget to read my children’s book, Runaway Smile, for free!