Author Dr. R. Y. Langham Speaks with AC from YAHOO!

I am dedicating September to Authors around the world. As a child I remember spending hours at the New York Library devouring novels and art books. When I was 10 years old, I began writing little short stories in my room and sometimes even added graphics to them. I was extremely shy as a child and rarely spoke to people, but inside I had plenty to say so writing was a good way to express myself without actually speaking the words out loud. It's no wonder that as I got older that I began expressing myself more in more in writing or blogging.

Today I would like you to meet Dr. R.Y. Langham who has a new book called "Fallen Apple". I understanding it is a fictional psychological thriller similar to Flowers in the Attic by V.C. Andrews.

YAHOO: Good afternoon Dr. Langham. How are you today?

DrL: I am doing great! I am currently working on my second novel, an untitled sequel to "Fallen Apple."

YAHOO: So tell us Dr. what inspired you to write your latest book, "Fallen Apple"?

DrL: I think what inspired me to write "Fallen Apple" was working at the Department of Children's Services in the Child Protective Services: Child Abuse and Neglect Unit. I worked at Central Intake for 4.5 years taking child abuse and neglect reports. Most of the time the caregiver, usually the parent was the perpetrator.

It always perplexed me how a parent could abuse her/his own child. It especially upset me to see how mothers could have so little regard for their child, usually a female child, that they would want to emotionally, sexually or physically harm that child. Working at DCS inspired me to go back to school for my doctorate in Family Psychology. I wanted to learn more about human behavior and family relationships.

YAHOO: What made you choose the name "Fallen Apple"?

Dr.L: I chose the title Fallen Apple because I wanted to demonstrate that children learn their thought patterns and behavior through their parents and family of origin (grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc). I also wanted to show how child abuse is generational hence the name "Fallen Apple" or the saying that the "apple does not fall far from the tree." The title explains the relationship between Corrine, the daughter and her mother Delilah.

YAHOO: Without giving too much away, what is the book about?

Dr.L: "Fallen Apple" examines the life of a young socialite named Delilah who is married to a prominent attorney named Randolph. Delilah has the "perfect life" until she accidentally becomes pregnant with a little girl. Even before the little girl is born Delilah despises the child for messing up her "perfect life" and "perfect body." The little girl's birth brings utter joy to Randolph, but devastates Delilah.

It does not take long before Delilah begins to notice that Randolph's attention is slowly slipping from her and centering on Corrine. This infuriates Delilah. It is during this time that Delilah begins to view her child as the enemy and vows to do everything she can to inflict as much pain and misery on her child as humanly possible.

Every day Delilah's hate for the little girl intensifies a little more every day the child becomes more and more aware of her mother's hatred towards her. The years of abuse take a toll on this child and Delilah relishes in the belief that she has won the war. But has Delilah really won the battle or is the apple about to fall from the tree.

YAHOO: When and where will the book be available for purchase Dr. Langham?

DrL: The book should be available early 2011 at Borders, Barnes and Noble, Amazon and other retail stores. You will be able to purchase the book at retail outlets and online.

YAHOO: As an author, what words of wisdom can you give to aspiring authors?

Dr.L: My word of wisdom is to never give up on your dream and never be afraid to put yourself out there to achieve your dream. I never thought anyone would want to publish my book. I originally started writing my book in college but stopped because I did not think anyone would want to read it. It was my mother who convinced me to send my manuscript to various agents and publishing houses and to my surprise someone wanted to publish my book. My message is to take a chance even if you think no one wants to read your manuscript you may end up being pleasantly surprised.

YAHOO: It was a great pleasure to speak with you today Dr. Langham and I wish you continued success with your book "Fallen Apple".

Dr.L: Thank you! I will keep everyone updated on the release date. I hope you enjoy the book.