For Your Reading Pleasure

For Your Reading Pleasure…Alana Woods

1. Tell us about yourself. May include links to Facebook, twitter, blogs, websites, Amazon author page)

I’m a married empty-nester; my three children left home years ago and now all have three children of their own. Two boys and one girl each, how coincidental is that?! My husband’s name is John and we live in Australia’s national capital, Canberra, also referred to as the Bush Capital. It’s a lovely place surrounded by low mountain ranges. Our house backs on to a native reserve and we often have kangaroos outside. Out front we have a view of the Brindabellas, our local mountain range, and sitting on the loungeroom deck with a coffee or wine in hand, depending on the time of day, is a guaranteed soul soother. Our oldest daughter lives in the UK and we spend time there every year. I talk about my professional life in another question so I won’t repeat it here. And I’ve included links at the end of the interview.

2. How do you choose names for your characters?

They tend to just pop into my head. Sometimes I’ll have several jiggling around for top spot but I’m mindful of them fitting the person. There’s a funny story about the main male character in IMBROGLIO. His name is David Cameron. I wrote the first draft before the actual David Cameron became the UK PM but, you know, it never occurred to me that my David had the same name. It was only last year when a UK reviewer pointed it out that I had that forehead slapping moment.

3. Do you talk about your book/characters as though they are real?

Not to other people, no. But do I talk to my characters? Yes. We have a very honest and open relationship; we can say anything to each other. Writing their stories wouldn’t be possible otherwise. And after their stories are told they don’t leave; they get on with their lives and let me know what they’re up to.

4. Do you listen to music when you write or edit? What kind?

I need total quiet to stay inside my head.

5. How long have you been writing?

My 30+ year career was in publishing in the Australian federal govt public service. I worked across the publications, public relations and media fields. I did a lot of writing but was principally an editor. I’ve been fiction writing for that long as well.

6. Tell us about when you realized you were ‘meant to be’ a writer.

I don’t know that I’d couch it in quite that way but I’ve always liked telling stories and am happiest when I’ve got one percolating. And as far as being a professional writer and editor is concerned, I always said that if I had to work it was the perfect job.

7. Do you have a muse?

I have a very understanding, tolerant and patient husband. He’s indulged my need for writing time ever since we got together. Does that count as a muse?

8. How do you improve as a writer? (Workshops, conferences, reading)

Years ago when I realised I needed feedback on my fiction I did a university night course which led to a Bachelor of Arts degree in Professional Writing and then a Post Graduate Diploma in Communication. I’ve also been a member of community writing groups and writing organisations and participated in writing master classes. Nowadays it’s having my manuscripts critiqued and beta read.
Another way to improve is through reading. I’m a committed reader and I review most of the books I read. I believe that writing a considered review is a good way to hone your analytical skills.
I’m also a professional editor; that’s another terrific way to hone analytical skills in relation to what makes good writing.

9. Writing quirks or superstitions?

No superstitions but maybe a quirk. I guess I’m an anomaly as a writer. With digital publishing most authors seem to write very quickly and publish everything they write as soon as they’ve finished it. I don’t. My first three novels went into the fire; I viewed them as practice while I was trying to find my genre. I discovered it with my fourth and fifth novels and those are the two that I’ve published to date.
I’m also very slow to publish; I put what I think is the final draft in a drawer for at least a year and don’t look at it until I’ve forgotten most of the detail. That way when I look at it again I’m reading it afresh. It’s amazing how the deficiencies jump out. Consequently I have only two published novels to date as well as a short story compilation and a writing guide.

10. Tell us about your current work-in-progress.

My third novel. The draft has been in a drawer for years. I’ve delayed pulling it out for the last two years while getting set up on Amazon and social media as well as getting my website and blog up and running. Amazing how time consuming all that has been.
But I’m now going to delay it again to write a three-book series based on a jewellery theft. I was in Italy in July/August 2013 for my daughter’s wedding and had all of my jewellery stolen. I was traumatised to say the least. I’ve always known I’d turn it into a story one day and now’s the time.

11. What book are you reading now?

Renaissance 2.0 by Dean C Moore. He’s an indie author and I’ll be reviewing the book when I’ve finished.

12. What genre do you write in? What about POV?

I write contemporary fiction. It’s also been tagged as thriller, mystery, intrigue and literary.
My preferred POV is 3d person omniscient. My third novel is 3rd person single. That needs a bit of vigilance to ensure I stay in it! It’s easy to stray.

13. Tell us about writing preparation. Character Profiles? Outlines?

It depends on the story line. With AUTOMATON I had the outline and main characters in my head before I started. When I began to write it the detail and secondary characters just happened. With IMBROGLIO there are two main characters whose stories run concurrently so I mapped out their days on a chart and filled in what they were doing in side-by-side columns. That way I knew what each was up to at any given time.

14. Do you know how your stories will end?

When I set out I think I do. But that can change, depending where the characters take the story.

15. Do you books have a message or theme? Or are they purely for entertainment?

All books have a theme, but not necessarily a message. Both of my published novels are themed and there’s a message in each if the reader looks. But over-ridingly they’re for entertainment. One that’s on the drawing board will buck that trend as it will have a message no-one could miss. But that’s a couple of years away from being written.

16. Do you have any favorite snacks or drinks that you eat/drink while writing?

No snacks because I put weight on too easily. But continual tea and coffee. Constant sipping seems to fuel the flow.

17. Tell us about your other passions.

Travelling is one. My oldest daughter and her family live in the UK (I’m in Australia), so John and I visit her every year. We combine it with other adventures; in 2013 before going to Italy for her wedding we did the UK Coast-to-Coast walk. It took us 18 days and we loved it. This year we’ve been seeing a bit of Australia. Just after Easter we toured the bottom end of Western Australia, and in October we toured around Tasmania and climbed Cradle Mountain. That was a feat worth mentioning!

18. What’s something interesting about you?

Whatever I say here is going to sound contrived, silly or immodest. I’ll go for immodest. My first published novel AUTOMATON won best Australian self-published fiction in 2003 and was nominated by Sisters In Crime for the Davitt awards in 2004.

19. Share a small sample (limit to one paragraph, please) of your writing… can be a WIP or already published.

Here’s the opening to AUTOMATON.

It wasn’t his appearance that unnerved her, unexpected though it was with its neat new track runnelling the middle of his chin, curving through cheek and across the outer corner of his right eye to disappear into the hairline. It wasn’t even that they were alike in colouring and delicacy of features.

It was his expression. A mixture of hope and no hope.

He was red-haired, fresh smooth skinned, freckled with a faded tan, 19, and not far from the trial of his life.

For murder.

20. Anything you’d like to say to your current and future readers?

Don’t leave me in a vacuum! Let me know what you think of my stories. Reviews are treasure, but so too are the personal emails. You can contact me via my website contact page. Receiving them makes my day. Actually, it’s more like my week. And I always have time to write back.

My links:
Website: http://www.alanawoods.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alanawoodsauthor
Twitter:https://twitter.com/AlanaEWoods
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1023590.Alana_Woods
Google+: https://plus.google.com/+AlanaWoods/about
LinkedIn: http://au.linkedin.com/pub/alana-woods/42/b79/412
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Alana-Woods/e/B0061UWNN0/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1

Books (the links are global smart links):
Imbroglio — http://georiot.co/PNH
Automaton — http://georiot.co/4Dp5
Tapestries and other short stories — http://georiot.co/2KQN
25 essential writing tips: guide to writing good fiction — http://georiot.co/3SJs

Thanks Alana! We’re glad you shared with us today!
E&M

For Your Reading Pleasure…Casey Fry

Today we have Casey Fry. We’re glad to have her insights…so read on and enjoy!

1. Tell us about yourself. May include links to Facebook, twitter, blogs, websites, Amazon author page)

My name is Casey Fry. I will turn twenty-seven in April, and if that isn’t a little frightening, I don’t know what is. I live in a small town in Pennsylvania with my two cats, Tootsie and Zero. I have a full-time job and own my own business and spend my limited free time writing. I have a fondness for hot tea and chocolate, my favorite dessert is cherry pie, and my favorite season is Autumn. When I’m not working or writing, I like to draw, read, research, practice archery, and horseback ride. I enjoy traveling and recently spent some time in Salem, Massachusetts, researching for an upcoming book.
Website: https://caseyfryauthor.wordpress.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/caseyfryauthor
Amazon Author Page: http://amzn.to/1wuXSxQ
Twitter: @CaseyFryAuthor

2. How do you choose names for your characters?

Sometimes, I choose a character’s name because the meaning of the name has a connection to the story or fits an aspect of the character’s personality. Other times, it is because the name itself is a play on words. For instance, Mortimer, one of the main characters in the DeathSpeaker Trilogy, is so named because his name can be shortened to Mort, which means “death.” In some cases, the names I use were not planned but chosen because I liked them. Marissa, in Dragon Circle, came from a fondness for the name. LaRune, the book’s main character, actually gained that name due to a typing error that I was too fond of to change.

3. Do you talk about your book/characters as though they are real?

Not usually. I try to keep a bit of a wall in between them and my real life, since they’re quite real to me in my head.

4. Do you listen to music when you write or edit? What kind?

Not when I’m editing or writing – for that, I need silence and the chance to concentrate on the words. When I’m just brainstorming or really working through how a scene will run, I often play music. Action scenes will have me listening to heavy metal or hard rock, while I’ll play duets for romantic scenes, and different genres for different scenes. It all depends on what kind of images I need in my head.

5. How long have you been writing?

Since I was very young. The first story I can remember writing was about my pet brontosaurus, who I rode through town and took to McDonald’s to buy hamburgers.

6. Tell us about when you realized you were ‘meant to be’ a writer.

When I was ten, my mom and I went to the movie theater to see Little Women. It had been her favorite book when she was little and she gave me her copy when I was young, allowing it to swiftly become my favorite. I was completely in love with the character Jo and wanted to be just like her. It was then that I decided I was going to be a writer, no matter what, and I remember I started writing a story in the car ride on the way home. I haven’t stopped writing since.

7. Do you have a muse?

Both of my parents have inspired various pieces of my stories, and my brother especially has been an inspiration for a piece of nearly all of my stories, even being the basis for certain characters. They, and some very close friends, have been great supporters and inspiration for my writing.

8. How do you improve as a writer? (Workshops, conferences, reading)

I read a lot, and have been reading a lot since I was little. I also have my Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Writing. I haven’t been to very many workshops outside of college, or conferences, but I enjoy discussing writing with a number of other writers in groups on Facebook. I have made a number of great friends there, and have others, who help me improve simply through discussion. I also do a lot of research, and I practice a lot.

9. Writing quirks or superstitions?

Other than having a cup of tea with me when I’m working, there are no great writing quirks or superstitions that I can think of. “Never go anywhere without a pen” is probably the biggest one, and I suppose that’s been more drilled into me from school than anything. I also don’t give characters the same name as my brother or my parents.

10. Tell us about your current work-in-progress.

Currently, I’m working on The God Stone, the second book in the DeathSpeaker Trilogy. It continues three months after Hunt, following Mortimer as the young DeathSpeaker deals with a series of murders occurring at the monastery he is now forced to call his home. Even while he tries to survive becoming the main suspect in the deaths of the monastery’s elder priests, he is still being hunted by Hester, a vicious servant of the mysterious Master who manipulates her many minions from the shadows. The plot is later thickened by the return of a character who was thought lost in the previous book, and then the rush to reunite with Ricker, who is suffering his own troubles.

11. What book are you reading now?

Currently, I’m in the process of reading The Ruins, by Scott Smith. I saw the movie when it first came out in 2008 and stumbled upon the book at the library. I was thrilled to discover it was a book first and have been steadily devouring it.

12. What genre do you write in? What about PoV?

For genres, I tend to write fantasy, usually dark fantasy, supernatural thriller, and mystery. I have touched on both horror and science fiction and intend to play around with them more in the future. All of my work tends to have a fantastical or supernatural edge to it. I often write third person limited or omniscient point of view, but I have a first person point of view book in the works that will come out after the DeathSpeaker Trilogy is finished.

13. Tell us about writing preparation. Character Profiles? Outlines?

When an idea comes to me, I usually just start out writing the bits and pieces that come to mind – moments that will occur, specific plot-points, character introductions, bits of dialogue. As I learn more about the characters and the plot unfolds, I will start with character profiles. Mine tend to be very in-depth, including everything from physical description to their parents’ names to what they plan on being when they grow up.
I also work on an outline of the story, which is sometimes nothing more than a list of things that will occur, and sometimes really in-depth. It tends to depend on the story and how much there is to explain. One of the larger series I’m working on is set in the fantasy world of Senexus. Due to the need to explain how this world works, as well as the political system which rules it, I have pages of notes involving setting description, royal family trees, and a history which spans back a few hundred years. I usually have quite a hoard of notes before the real book writing begins. My biggest problem is not losing them!

14. Do you know how your stories will end?

Not always. Sometimes I write the stories much the way that people read them – with no idea of what’s coming next. Thankfully, it’s more common for me to be aware of what’s going to happen. I have even had some moments where I am aware of the way a story will end before anything else. Due to my outlining, however, more often than not I have at least a general idea, at the start, of how things will turn out.

15. Do you books have a message or theme? Or are they purely for entertainment?

I never start a book with a message in mind. I write books for my own entertainment and am simply glad that there are others who enjoy them, as well. Sometimes, while writing a book, I will find that there is a message or theme that has formed all on its own and I just roll with it.

16. Do you have any favorite snacks or drinks that you eat/drink while writing?

I have a love of hot tea that follows me throughout the day, but I almost always have a cup with me when I’m writing. Unless I’ve managed to drag myself out of bed really early to get some work done, and then I might have treated myself to a latte.

17.. Tell us about your other passions.

I love to cook. I especially love making new things that I’ve never tried to make before (or even never eaten before), occasionally altering the recipe. I also like to grab whatever looks good in my fridge, toss it in a pan and see what happens. In this way, I have made quite a number of very interesting original dishes (and one really gross one that I won’t repeat).

I also enjoy reading, my favorite authors being Dean Koontz, Stephen King, and JRR Tolkien. Recently, I’ve taken to raiding my local library for new books and have discovered some lovely new titles. Outside of cooking and reading, I enjoy researching random curiosities, studying mythology, and practicing archery.

18. What’s something interesting about you?

Writing Dragon Circle required me to research traditional archery for Marissa’s character. We had two traditional bows in the basement – a shortbow and a recurve bow – and I brought them both out to try them, see which one I preferred, and practice with it so I could write Marissa’s character knowledgably. My target was a black five gallon bucket I’d sat upside down on a hill and the first bow I chose was the shortbow. My first shot nailed my target. I didn’t even bother with the recurve bow and I’ve been addicted to archery ever since.

19. Share a small sample(limit to one paragraph, please) of your writing… can be a WIP or already published.

(excerpt from The God Stone, book two in the DeathSpeaker Trilogy)

The sun was sinking below the horizon, the cracked earth darkening to the color of mud. Peter stared at the ground beneath him, feeling the heat from it, the firmness pressed against his stomach, and he didn’t allow himself to be fooled. Still, he felt the dryness of his throat, swallowed through his thirst, and thought longingly of the skin in his pack. He daren’t touch it. He’d traveled for days to get here and had used up more than half of his water supply, even while rationing. He didn’t know how he would make it back with another person in tow before they died of dehydration. Perhaps he’d let the assassin drink poisoned water. He was a DeathBreather, after all. It wouldn’t kill him.

20. Anything you’d like to say to your current and future readers?

Thank you for joining me in an adventure! I hope whatever book you pick up takes you to a world you’ll enjoy visiting, and that you’ll continue to travel with me as the years go on and we discover new worlds to explore.

Thanks Casey! Good luck to you!!!!
💙E&M

For Your Reading Pleasure…Christy Jones

Our first feature of the New Year is children’s author, Christy Jones. Her book “Trinka and the Thousand Talismans” released in October. Let’s read about her writing process.

1. Tell us about yourself. May include links to Facebook, twitter, blogs, websites, Amazon author page)

I’m the play-at-home mom of two delightful little readers, and also enjoy reading with my awesome husband. I work out by picking up 20 pounds of picture books at the library on a regular basis, and by walking and hiking through the gorgeous Pacific Northwest. My middle-grade fantasy novel, “Trinka and the Thousand Talismans,” debuted in October 2014.
Facebook: facebook.com/christyjoneswriter
Twitter: @writechristy
Website: http://www.joneschristy.com
Amazon author: http://www.amazon.com/author/joneschristy

2. How do you choose names for your characters?

First, I consider the sound. I love the playful notes of “Trinka” and the way it sounds similar to “trinket,” which is appropriate considering all the strange objects she collects on her journey. The meaning also plays an important role. For example, Trinka’s grandmother’s name is “Elora,” which means “light,” and her sister Annelise’s name means “gentle light.” So, her sister is named after her grandmother. Trinka’s dad’s name, Bram, is more obvious—it’s simply Dutch for “father.”

3. Do you talk about your book/characters as though they are real?

Only when talking to myself (which happens often!).

4. Do you listen to music when you write or edit? What kind?

I need to hear the sounds of the words as I’m writing, so I save music for when I’m driving or doodling. Plumb, Kutless, and Eden’s Bridge are all likely to be in my playlist, but occasionally I’ll go for classical symphonies and ballets, or the “classic” music of the 50s and 60s.

5. How long have you been writing?

First grade is the time I truly remember writing and illustrating my own books, and it’s been a passion of mine ever since. Since the advent of typing my stories and not relying on my own handwriting, the output’s appearance has improved considerably. (I like to think the plots have too.)

6. Tell us about when you realized you were ‘meant to be’ a writer.

I wrote a series of four fantasy “epics” (2000 words each, which seemed enormous at the time) as a sixth grader, and was chosen to represent my class at a writer’s workshop. I think I realized then that writing is something I really wanted to pursue and continue to grow in.

7. Do you have a muse?

My family’s love an unfailing support helps me a lot, as does the joy of reading aloud to my children. I hope someday someone will enjoy reading my books to their children.

8. How do you improve as a writer? (Workshops, conferences, reading)

Practice helps more than anything. It was an epiphany for me a number of years ago watching Michelle Kwan ice skate, and thinking of the countless of hours of practice she put in. The performance may only last minutes, but it’s only possible because of years of work behind it.

9. Writing quirks or superstitions?

“Trinka and the Thousand Talismans” has quite a number of quirky creatures, most of them inspired by my love of sewing dolls and puppets. Now that the book is complete, I’ve been able to bring that full circle and design free sewing patterns inspired by characters in the book, which you can find on my website http://www.puppetpub.com.

10. Tell us about your current work-in-progress.

At the moment, I feel like a kid who just built a huge block tower and now gets the fun of knocking it down, because I’m slowly working on the sequel to “Trinka and the Thousand Talismans.” So many things that got set up in the first book will come into play in the second. The world and characters are so deep that there’s so much material for a second story. With two little ones at home, my writing time is very limited, so I’m learning to write in snatches whenever and wherever I can.

11. What book are you reading now?

My husband Peter and I are reading Stephen Lawhead’s “The Fatal Tree,” and we’re reading our children “The Magician’s Nephew” by C.S. Lewis. I love when they beg for “just one more chapter,” but we have to build suspense (and stick to some sort of bedtime schedule).

12. What genre do you write in? What about POV?

Children’s books with a sense of joy and whimsy, whether for young children or teens, are my favorite. But I hope to write some adult novels someday, too. I really love reading books where you get totally into the mind of one main character, so that’s what I like to write as well.

13. Tell us about writing preparation. Character Profiles? Outlines?

Usually I just have a laundry list of notes, scrawled on various surfaces. I’m trying to get better about outlining

.
14. Do you know how your stories will end?

Not at first! I think I just figured out how Trinka’s sequel will end, after writing the first four chapters. Even though I have a lot more details to figure out, I’m excited for the whole journey.

15. Do you books have a message or theme? Or are they purely for entertainment?

Trinka’s story is really about things working out in unexpected ways. By the end, she realizes that if things had gone “right,” she would have missed out on an incredible journey.

16. Do you have any favorite snacks or drinks that you eat/drink while writing?

No, but I’ll be handing out chocolate at my first book signing…

17. Tell us about your other passions.

I’m homeschooling my children for kindergarten this year, and it’s a lot of fun. I feel blessed to be right here with them everyday, sharing the joy of reading, creating, and learning. I also enjoy volunteering with children, and teach a Bible class for preschoolers and toddlers.

18. What’s something interesting about you?

While the other students in my technical writing degree program were working on hardware and software instructions, I wrote and self-published a book on how to make puppet costumes. I entered it in a technical writing competition just to get feedback, and won Best of Show.

19. Share a small sample(limit to one paragraph, please) of your writing… can be a WIP or already published.

The opening line of Trinka and the Thousand Talismans: “In the tallest glass tower, in the lowest classroom, all of the students were carefully filling glass jars with clouds full of thoughts. Except one.”

20. Anything you’d like to say to your current and future readers?

Thank you for taking the time to read my writing! I hope it brings you joy.

For Your Reading Pleasure…Liltera R. Williams

Our feature today is Liltera R. Williams. We’re glad to have her insight into her writing process.

1. Tell us about yourself. May include links to Facebook, twitter, blogs, websites, Amazon author page

Poet, Author, Editor, Publisher, born to write in Jacksonville, Florida, with a Bachelor’s degree in English from Florida State University. I discovered my passion for writing at age 12 and realized that it was my purpose at 18. In August of 2011, I established my own writing, proofreading/editing and publishing company, iWrite4orU. I specialize in assisting first-time authors.

Facebook.com/iWrite4orU

Twitter & Instagram: @iWrite4orU_LRW

writergrind.blogspot.com

Amazon.com/Liltera-R.-Williams

2. How do you choose names for your characters?

I usually come up with the character description before an official name is assigned and I try to select names that complement each character’s overall demeanor.

3. Do you talk about your book/characters as though they are real?

All of my characters are relatable and derive from people I’ve encountered throughout my life. I’ve been asked numerous times if there’s any truth hidden within my first novel, Dearly Beloved S.I.S.T.A.S. I personally believe that all fiction stories are loosely based on true circumstances. I don’t talk about Sheila, Brenda, Sunni and Faith, the characters from my first novel, much anymore because I’ve moved on to a new plot, but they’re still alive. None of my characters will ever truly die.

4. Do you listen to music when you write or edit? What kind?

Yes, I’m a fan of all types of music. I prefer to listen to songs with creative and motivating lyrical content when writing. Alicia Keys is my favorite artist, but I find myself in a more focused zone when Gospel music is playing. It can become a distraction sometimes, though, when getting lost in the melody.

5. How long have you been writing?

Personally, 16 years.

My permanent relationship with writing first began at age 12, after my paternal grandfather passed away. For the first few years, it was my therapeutic outlet, strictly a form of expressing myself and dissecting my emotions.

Professionally, 5 1/2 years.

After graduating from FSU, I started blogging and also completed two post-grad internships, which allowed me to build a freelance portfolio of over 50 published articles. My first article was published in 904 Magazine in March 2009. I then published my first book, Amateur Thoughts: A Personal Collection of iWrite Poetry and LRW Quotes, on 12-12-12 because my career was finally perfectly aligned and it was time to progress to a new level of writing.

6. Tell us about when you realized you were ‘meant to be’ a writer.

I instantly realized it the first time I recorded my feelings in a diary. Nothing compares to that type of emotional release. However, the defining moment revealed itself when I declared Creative Writing as my major at FSU. Before then, I was always told that writing isn’t an actual career and I foolishly believed it. Yet, I understood that I had a special gift with words. The more I learned to develop the craft in college, the more I fell in love with it. My name, Liltera, resembling Literature, is also a clear sign. I think my parents subconsciously knew that writing was my calling before I did.

7. Do you have a muse?

God is my ultimate muse, but I often discover inspiration in all things, from relationships and daily conversations to my random, complicated thoughts. I have a strong desire to inspire and I’m motivated when I’m able to impact others who may be lost while seeking to find their purpose in life.

8. How do you improve as a writer?

Writing is an acquired skill. Although it’s a natural talent that I was born with, it requires constant nurturing and practice. I write every single day and I’m always reading and researching. I attend at least two writers’ conferences and/or book festivals each year and I’m constantly networking and gaining insight from other experienced authors. I encourage all aspiring writers to treat the skill like a priority instead of a hobby.

9. Writing quirks or superstitions?

I don’t share any content publicly without spell checking it three times or more. I’ll even reread it after it’s been published. I’m obsessed with editing and revising.

10. Tell us about your current work-in-progress.

I’m currently working on my next two releases, scheduled for 2015: Pen, Publish & Promote Your Book the Write Way (Detailed Guide for First-Time Authors), my fourth nonfiction book, and Date Knight: A Man Who Findeth A Wife, my second novel.

11. What book are you reading now?

I read quite a few kindle edition short stories this month: Holiday Hotel by Barbara Joe Williams, Double D Death/Double D Death II by Felicia SW. Thomas, A Husband for Christmas by Nakia R. Laushaul, Wife Insurance by A’ndrea J. Wilson.

12. What genre do you write in? What about PoV?

I’m a versatile writer. So far, I’ve self-published two poetry books, a spiritual mystery novel with four main African-American female characters and a short self-help LIVE YOUR DREAM guide. I’m a fan of first-person point of view, but third person seems to be more favorable for most readers. I creatively weaved both POVs into my first novel, Dearly Beloved S.I.S.T.A.S.

13.Tell us about writing preparation. Character Profiles? Outlines?

As soon as an idea hits me, I log it ‘write away’. I have a weird method of outlining. I don’t create a traditional layout. Instead, I draft breakdowns of characters, scenes and dialogue. I tend to write out of order, in spurts, but somehow, it all comes together during the editing process.

14. Do you know how your stories will end?

Not always. While writing my first novel, I tried to control the plot way too much, and then the characters just took over. I’m allowing my second novel to write itself… I think. Ha!

15. Do your books have a message or theme? Or are they purely for entertainment?

LIVE YOUR DREAM is the ultimate message within all of my nonfiction books. My first novel is a suspenseful and entertaining story that delivers an overall message of faith.

16. Do you have any favorite snacks or drinks that you eat/drink while writing?

I like to write while nibbling on all types of fruity candy and dry cereal (Honey Nut Cheerios). For some reason, I write better on an empty stomach, but I always have juice or water readily available to keep myself hydrated.

17. Tell us about your other passions.

I’m extremely passionate about sports. As a former athlete, I once dreamed of becoming the first woman to join an NBA team.

18. What’s something interesting about you?

Hmmm… I don’t sleep well unless I’m positioned on the write/right side of the bed. That’s if I sleep at all.

19. Share a small sample (limit to one paragraph, please) of your writing… can be a WIP or already published.

“Sheila wanted to change, but she was now the prototype for an all-in-one persona… A nemesis to her own resilience, trying to spearhead a solo movement. And Sunni made her feel like she could do anything…” Dearly Beloved S.I.S.T.A.S

20. Anything you’d like to say to your current and future readers?

Thank you! I hope you enjoy my work enough to become a long-time supporter of my #WriterGrind™!

LIVE YOUR DREAM, whatever it may be.

Great message about living your dream. Everyone should strive to do that. Thanks, Liltera.
E&M

For Your Reading Pleasure…Dawn Geiger

Our feature today is with Dawn Geiger. Let’s read about her approach to the writing process.

1. Tell us about yourself. May include links to Facebook, twitter, blogs, websites, Amazon author page.

My name is Dawn M. Geiger and I was born and raised in central Virginia. I am an author, an educational consultant, and a life coach. I am a mother to two adult children, a mother-in-law to two more, and Nana to two precious grandchildren. I am an avid bargain shopper, a fun party planner, and a DIY crafter.
Please feel free to contact me at: http://www.dawnmgeiger.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dawnmgeigerauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dawn_geiger
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Dawn-M.-Geiger/e/B00NMVFR3Y/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0

2. How do you choose names for your characters?

Once I can see the characters’ faces in my mind, I name them.

3. Do you talk about your book/characters as though they are real?

Yes, my characters are real and have a story of their own.

4. Do you listen to music when you write or edit? What kind?

No. Music is quite distracting when I’m writing because I often find myself singing along with the song and losing my train of thought.

5. How long have you been writing?

I started writing my first book about 10-12 years ago. During that time I would write a page or two and then let it sit for weeks or months at a time before picking it up again. I was quite busy with my family and my writing priority would only click in occasionally. However, during this past year I was able to finish writing my book. I’m hoping my next book won’t take near as long to complete as my first one.

6. Tell us about when you realized you were ‘meant to be’ a writer.

I’ve always known that I had a story to tell, but it wasn’t until I started sharing my story with others a few years ago that I realized that I had to keep putting the words onto paper.

7. Do you have a muse?

Yes, my family and the students that I speak with daily keep my inspiration going.

8. How do you improve as a writer? (Workshops, conferences, reading.)

An editor who asks great thinking questions is always very helpful! I also enjoy reading and attending writing workshops and conferences.

9. Writing quirks or superstitions?

I always have a notebook or post-it notes close by so I can jot down my thoughts as they come to mind.

10. Tell us about your current work-in-progress.

I’m slowly beginning to work on my next book, which is a continuation of my first.

11. What book are you reading now?

I‘m currently not reading anything right now; however, I do enjoy reading books from many different genres.

12. What genre do you write in? What about PoV?

My genre is family relationships, and my POV is first person and limited third.

13. Tell us about writing preparation. Character Profiles? Outlines?

I begin by making lots of notes and lists. I then divide my notes into chapters as I work through an outline. I also develop my characters to match the story line.

14. Do you know how your stories will end?

I have no idea. I let the book write itself, so to speak.

15. Do your books have a message or theme? Or are they purely for entertainment?

Yes. The message I want to convey in my writing is that regardless of your current situation, there is always hope for a brighter future!

16. Do you have any favorite snacks or drinks that you eat/drink while writing?

Not usually; however, diet coke and water are my drinks of choice.

17. Tell us about your other passions.

My passions are spending time with my family, traveling, education, and humanitarian work.

18. What’s something interesting about you?

I would like to someday start an educational foundation.

19. Share a small sample (limit to one paragraph, please) of your writing… can be a WIP or already published.

Chapter 1, paragraph 1 of Mama Knew Best.
Going for car rides was one of my favorite things to do, so when Mama asked if I wanted to go for a ride with her, Grandma, and Grandpap, I jumped up excitedly. “Yes ma’am!” I squealed, running towards the front door.
“Slow down,” said Grandma, smiling as she helped me put on my jacket.
I was really excited by the thought of being the special one today, being that it was rare when one of us children got to ride in the car with just the adults.
After zipping up my jacket, Grandma, Grandpap, Mama, and I walked out the door and down the front steps. As I turned to wave goodbye to my brother, Sammy, and cousins, Mandy and Scott, Mandy ask her mother, “Where are they going?”
“They are going for a ride and will be back soon,” Sue answered.
“I want to go!” Sammy cried, running across the porch towards the steps.
“Maybe next time Sammy,” Sue replied, pulling him close to her side.
After climbing into the back seat of Grandpap’s old white station wagon, I quickly rolled down my window as far as it would go and smiled out into the sunshine while Mama slid in next to me. As Grandma and Grandpap got in up front, I didn’t notice that I was the only one smiling.

20. Anything you’d like to say to your current and future readers?

Thank you all so much for your encouragement and support. I look forward to hearing from you!

Thanks Dawn! We’re so glad you shared.
🎄E&M🎄

For Your Reading Pleasure…Leslie Sansom

On the blog today, we have Leslie Sansom. Enjoy reading about her writing process.

1. Tell us about yourself. May include links to Facebook, twitter, blogs, websites, Amazon author page)

I started writing about 7 years because I was depressed. It became an outlet for me. I have released 7 self published books and am about to release my 8th. https://www.facebook.com/lesliemsansom @lmsansom http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00HES7W3Y I also write 2 blogs. motherof2kids.wordpress.com thedirtygirlsbookclub.wordpress.com

2. How do you choose names for your characters?

All of my names for characters come to me in different ways. My first book, I used names that meant something to me personally.

3. Do you talk about your book/characters as though they are real?

Sometimes

4. Do you listen to music when you write or edit? What kind?

I listen to the West Wing on Netflix. I usually have it pulled up on a tab on my computer while I write. I have seen it so many times I don’t have to watch it to know what’s going on.

5. How long have you been writing?

About 7 years

6. Tell us about when you realized you were ‘meant to be’ a writer.

I still haven’t realized that yet.

7. Do you have a muse?

My muse is Jonathan Rhys Meyers. I love his eyes. The way he can convey his emotion just from the way he looks at you. I call him the Sexy Serial Killer, because you never know if he wants to sleep with you or kill you.

8. How do you improve as a writer? (Workshops, conferences, reading)

I read all the time. I have taken a few creative writing classes. I would love to attend a writers workshop.

9. Writing quirks or superstitions?

no

10. Tell us about your current work-in-progress.

Right now I am working on 2 books. The first is the 4th in my Keeping her in the Dark series “Surrender”. The series is about Liam Hastings, a rich businessman from London who buys a young girl at a slave auction, thinking it was a completely voluntary situation. After realizing his mistake he doesn’t know what to do with her. If he lets her go he risks himself, but if he keeps her he is afraid of corrupting her. Sold, Consumed, Betrayed and now Surrender. I am done with the first draft, but now I need to go back and edit/rewrite. The other book is the first in my King of Kings series. It is about a motorcycle club member that obtains a girl from another motorcycle club to babysit so she can not testify against them. Things heat up when he starts to care for her and he finds out they’re plan is to kill her anyway.

11. What book are you reading now?

I am not reading anything right now.

12. What genre do you write in? Erotica/Romance What about PoV?

I write from both of main characters POV.

13. Tell us about writing preparation. Character Profiles? Outlines?

I usually write, actually write with pen and paper a rough outline and list of characters with stats, how they look to me, age, job, wife, kids, parents. Then I break it down in chapters. While writing sometimes my characters take me on a turn away from the outline and I have to re-think it.

14. Do you know how your stories will end?

I usually know the beginning, the big drama and the ending.

15. Do you books have a message or theme? Or are they purely for entertainment?

purely for entertainment

16. Do you have any favorite snacks or drinks that you eat/drink while writing?

I love to eat jelly bellies! Juicy Pear is my favorite!

17. Tell us about your other passions.

I am scrapbooker. I love to scrapbook. I take a lot of pictures of my kids, the outdoors and my dog. I love expressing my creativity through paper and embellishments.

18. What’s something interesting about you?

I am a Navy wife and my family and I lived in Spain for 3 years.

19. Share a small sample (limit to one paragraph, please) of your writing… can be a WIP or already published.

Here is something from Surrender: Keeping her in the Dark Vol. 4 : “Detective, I am going to say this one time and one time only. People tell me that on my happiest of days I am no joy to be around. So how do you think I am going to be if you keep trying to drag my wife into this? I suggest that you keep my family out of this. For both our sakes,” I said.
“Are you threatening me, Mr. Hastings?” he asked.

“No sir I am not.” I was not threatening him. I was very serious.

20. Anything you’d like to say to your current and future readers?

I appreciate my small flock of readers very much. They are a loyal group and I love them. For any future readers, Welcome to my world!!! Thank you for giving me a chance.

Thanks Leslie! Good luck to you and your books.
E&M

For Your Reading Pleasure…Allison Maruska

We have Allison Maruska here today. Her YA novel will release soon so be sure and check out her blog and Facebook page for updates!!!

1. Tell us about yourself. May include links to Facebook, twitter, blogs, websites, Amazon author page)

In addition to being a writer, I’m a wife, mom, teacher, owl enthusiast, and Colorado native.
Author website and blog: allisonmaruska.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allisonmaruskaauthor
Twitter: @allisonmaruska

2. How do you choose names for your characters?

It depends, but most of the time I’ll imagine the character’s features and mannerisms, then I resort to my Name Dice app. I literally roll the dice until I land on a name that “feels” right. If the character is from a time in the past, I research popular baby names from that time period and use one of those.

3. Do you talk about your book/characters as though they are real? Yes, especially when hashing out ideas with someone. Sometimes I forget my characters aren’t real and get sad when reality hits again. They begin to feel like friends I haven’t seen for a long time but I know completely.

4. Do you listen to music when you write or edit? What kind?

Nope, I need it quiet. But a few of my characters have “adopted” songs to match their personalities, so I’ll listen to those before writing about them.

5. How long have you been writing?

I started blogging in March of 2012; consisting mostly of humor, parenting, and teaching posts. Fiction writing came later. I had the characters for my first book in my head around this time, but it took me a year to figure out their story. That was after five attempts.

6. Tell us about when you realized you were ‘meant to be’ a writer.

Oh, wow. I’m not sure. Looking back, it seems like it should have been obvious. When I was in fifth grade, I won a short story contest at school and had to read it in front of everyone. I didn’t tell my mom until the morning before it was supposed to happen because the attention embarrassed me.
I didn’t think I could really be a writer – like someone who could do this for a living – until much much later. Like a month ago. Ha.

7. Do you have a muse?

Not really… sometimes ideas just seem to pop out of nowhere.

8. How do you improve as a writer? (Workshops, conferences, reading)

I’ve done quite a bit of reading and have my favorite “writing” authors – Chuck Wendig and Nathan Bransford are two. But I’d say the biggest source of improvement is my online writing community at Critique Circle. There are writers representing every genre and skill level from all over the world. In the group that critiques my work, I have one writer who focuses on how I’ve developed my characters, while another picks out my unnecessary wordiness. The other seven offer suggestions from their own strengths – plausibility, sentence construction, etc. And I offer suggestions to them in their work. Once the trust is established, only constructive criticism and improvement follow.

9. Writing quirks or superstitions?

No, but I’m open to suggestions.

10. Tell us about your current work-in-progress.

I guess I have two – the one in the critique group now and I’m polishing is an adult mystery/suspense novel about four strangers who learn their ancestors worked together to bury something in a locked safe in a Virginia courthouse a century ago. Their ancestors came from diverse backgrounds, having no obvious reason to work together. The descendants have to find the keys left to their families to unlock the mystery, which ends up being much more serious than they could have imagined.
The book I’m actively writing probably couldn’t be more different – it’s a YA urban fantasy/dystopian about a teenage boy who survives a global pandemic along with a handful of other teens. Instead of the virus killing them, they develop the ability to shape shift into various flying creatures. It’s a story of how they all try to fit into their new world.

11. What book are you reading now?

Mostly my friends’ projects in my critique group. As far as actual published books go, I’ve been reading a lot of self-published work by authors I’ve met in the critique group or on Twitter. Recent titles include Savvy Stories by Dan Alatorre; IA: Initiate by John Winston; and I’m currently reading Necromancer Awakening by Nat Russo.

12. What genre do you write in? What about PoV?

I favor mystery/suspense, but my work seems to always have bits of sci-fi in there too. Third person limited is my fallback POV for novels, but short stories are usually in first person.

13. Tell us about writing preparation. Character Profiles? Outlines?

I plan the major plot points ahead of time but “pants” most of the in between events. I’ve outlined a couple books more thoroughly, but I found myself changing a lot of what I planned as I went along.

14. Do you know how your stories will end?

Not usually at the beginning. I have to get a feel for the characters and how the story’s going before I can figure out a great twist and satisfying ending. I love twists. Readers of my short stories are nodding in agreement right now.

15. Do you books have a message or theme? Or are they purely for entertainment?

I’m not sure I consciously have a theme, but one usually emerges as I’m going along. Since all but one of my books so far are YA, the theme usually is in the spirit of finding your place in the world, learning who you really are, and fighting for what matters. But the reason I write is to entertain.

16. Do you have any favorite snacks or drinks that you eat/drink while writing?

If I’m stuck I eat sweets. If I’m cruising along I usually forget to eat.

17. Tell us about your other passions.

First place would be my husband and our two elementary-aged sons. Listening to my boys read is one of my favorite parts of my day.

I’ve been an elementary school teacher for thirteen years; I had my own classroom for the first ten years. I’m currently a part time “certified interventionist” at a school with a high-poverty population. The kids are amazing and funny.

I also serve in our church as a second grade teacher and as a keyboard player on the worship team. It can be a lot of work sometimes but I love it.

18. What’s something interesting about you?

I can drink a gallon of milk in ten seconds.
I really can’t, but whoever knows what that’s from gets a million bonus points.

19. Share a small sample(limit to one paragraph, please) of your writing… can be a WIP or already published.

This is the first paragraph from my soon-to-be-released YA novel.

Levin looked away from his computer screen and back to the torn open envelope on his desk. At first, he’d kept it in a drawer, but he found himself opening the drawer repeatedly to ensure the envelope was still there. He moved it to his desk top for more convenient visual confirmation of its presence.

20. Anything you’d like to say to your current and future readers?

THANK YOU!! I obviously wouldn’t be able to do this if it weren’t for you.

Thanks Allison! Looking forward to your release day!!
E&M

For Your Reading Pleasure…Debbie Alferio

Our feature today is with Debbie Alferio. Let’s read about her writing process. 🙂

1. Tell us about yourself. May include links to Facebook, twitter, blogs, websites, Amazon author page, etc.

I’m an award-winning inspirational romance author and speaker from northern Ohio. My husband, two sons, and I live just outside Cleveland with our little “zoo” of fur babies which includes seven cats, two dogs, a ball python, and a little white mouse I call Juliette (whom I saved when the snake decided she wasn’t hungry!). My Forever Love series was inspired by a dream; I currently have two novels published, and am hard at work on the third. I’m a member of the International Writers Association, American Authors Association, Ohio Professional Writers, Writer’s Ink, and the Sauna Friends Writers Group. I’ve also been honored to be the Ohio Representative for a literacy campaign called Authors Across America, and have listings in two Who’s Who directories. Having lost several relatives to cancer and knowing many others who have been touched by the disease, I donate a part of my profits to the American Cancer Society. You can find out more about me and my books at http://www.freewebs.com/debsbooks, pick up writing tips at http://www.debbiealferio.blogspot.com, or check out my pages on Facebook and Amazon.

2. How do you choose names for your characters?

In the dream which sparked my writing career, I was talking to a man I addressed as “Mitch.” Strange to me, because I’ve never known anyone by that name in my life! My hero, Mitch Tarrington, was born from that event. The names of the other characters came to me as I was writing. I’ve never had to think about this issue at all. The info, believe it or not, just seems to be there!

3. Do you talk about your book/characters as though they are real?

You mean, they AREN’T? J My characters are as real to me as my actual family and friends. If an author can’t relate to her characters in that way, how can she properly portray them to her readers?

4. Do you listen to music when you write or edit? What kind?

While I love music (primarily country and 80s rock/pop), I’m too easily distracted to play anything while I’m working. When I do, I find myself fiddling with the iPod or radio to find my favorite songs instead of typing!

5. How long have you been writing?

I’ve been writing for a little over ten years.

6. Tell us about when you realized you were ‘meant to be’ a writer.

In September, 2004, I dreamed I was sitting in an office, talking to a young man I didn’t know. I looked at him and said, “Okay, Mitch!” Then I woke up. A story started to form in my head, and something told me I needed to write it down (the “divine intervention”). I went to my computer and the words just flowed from me as if they’d always been there. A little less than six months later, I’d completed the manuscript for my first novel, “A Forever Kind of Love.” I’ve been writing ever since, and loving every minute of it!

7. Do you have a muse?

I do, but it’s been on vacation a lot recently! LOL Seriously, though, I’m not one of those writers who finds it easy to write something worthy of reading every time I sit down at the computer. Sometimes the muse decides to take a day off, and when it does, I try not to worry about it. My motto is “you can’t force creativity.” But, when the muse kicks in, the results are awesome! Fortunately, those days happen more than the off ones.

8. How do you improve as a writer? (Workshops, conferences, reading)

All of the above! I’m also fortunate enough to have a great group of friends who are authors that I can network with on a regular basis. I’m a member of several writing groups, as well. I’ve found that there is always something new to learn and always some way I can improve upon my craft.

9. Writing quirks or superstitions?

My biggest quirk is that I tend to edit as I go along, and that can really cut into my progress. I’m too much of a perfectionist, I guess.

10. Tell us about your current work-in-progress.

Due to what I’ll call a “series of unfortunate events” within my family, my third novel has taken much longer than I had hoped. However, I’m starting to get back on track, and hope to have it released by this time next year, if not sooner. It will “solve” the cliffhanger ending posed by “Waiting for Tomorrow” and will continue the story of my couple, Mitch and Dana Tarrington. My readers have been eager to find out whether or not poor Mitch is still alive. (read the books to find out what I’m talking about!)

11. What book are you reading now?

I just finished the Flynn Brothers Series by Heather Graham. Very good!

12. What genre do you write in? What about PoV?

My genre is inspirational romance—in other words, romantic theme without the explicit scenes or graphic descriptions. The books in my series are appropriate for ages 14-15 and up. As far as POV, I tend to break the rules a little there. In my series, I write in both first and third person. Some may see this as taboo, but I’ve been told by a few editors that this is okay as long as I’m careful about transitioning from one POV to the other. I’ve found out recently that a lot more authors are doing this, and my readers have told me they like the style, soooo….

13. Tell us about writing preparation. Character Profiles? Outlines?

I don’t outline. Can’t outline. Drives me crazy! I’m far too detail-oriented, and if I try to follow an outline and happen to stray from it, I get stressed out! I’m what you call a pantser—I fly by the seat of my pants and let the characters/scenes/muse carry me. I always have some idea of where I want the story to go, but if it ends up taking off in another direction, I’m okay with that. Keeps things interesting for me.

14. Do you know how your stories will end?

Not always. Again, part of that whole “pantser” thing. In fact, I had an entirely different ending lined up for “Waiting for Tomorrow,” but on the advice of my husband, ended up changing it at the last minute. It honestly worked out for the better!

15. Do your books have a message or theme? Or are they purely for entertainment?

My series actually has various themes. My heroine is learning how to trust; my hero is growing spiritually (in the first two books—he may not live to see Book 3, remember). I also hope to inspire my readers in some way through my work.

16. Do you have any favorite snacks or drinks that you eat/drink while writing?

My addiction is Dubble Bubble bubble gum. It’s my stress reliever. I chew two pieces at a time, and tend to “chain chew”—when the flavor runs out, I reload! Doesn’t do much to keep my TMJ in check, but it does help me concentrate.

17. Tell us about your other passions.

Besides my family and pets, I’m in the process of starting a youth group at my church. At this point, I’m going into the project as blind as can be, but I figure God will show me what to do! I’m excited about the possibility of reaching out to the teens and young adults in the community, and being a positive role model to them. It should be fun!

18. What’s something interesting about you?

I’ve never had any formal training in writing and never aspired to become a writer prior to my dream.

19. Share a small sample (limit to one paragraph, please) of your writing… can be a WIP or already published.

This is the opening paragraph to my second novel, “Waiting for Tomorrow”—I turned the dial on the timer and set it on the counter, found a magazine, and took my place on the couch in impatient waiting. My fingers fumbled to turn the page, and my mind refused to concentrate on the words printed there. Ten minutes. It wasn’t long in reality, but I knew it would be the longest, most nerve-wracking time in my existence thus far. Deciding to give up on my attempt at reading, I tossed the magazine on the coffee table and settled back into the softness of the cushions as I let my thoughts take control. (What is Dana

waiting on? Read the book to find out!)
20. Anything you’d like to say to your current and future readers?

I’d like to thank all those who have taken the time to purchase and read my books, and for the outpouring of love and support you’ve given me and my family over these past few years. You all mean more to me than I can express in words, and without you, this journey would be lonely and meaningless. I look forward to many more years of getting to know my current readers better, and making new friends with new readers. I promise to do my best to continue to deliver books that you can enjoy for years to come. Love and blessings to all!

Thanks Debbie! We enjoyed having you!!
E&M

For Your Reading Pleasure…Liana Brooks

Our feature today is Liana Brooks. Let’s see how she approaches the writing process…

1. Tell us about yourself. May include links to Facebook, twitter, blogs, websites, Amazon author page)

Let’s see… I’m an extrovert, I love mint-chocolate chip ice cream, I want to live on a tropical coast, and I travel a lot. The extrovert part explains my social media addiction. I’m on Twitter and FaceBook all the time! And the traveling is why my blog is getting neglected this month. It’s hard to find computer time when you’re catching flights and camping in hotels.

FaceBook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Liana-Brooks/278779308851471
Blog – http://www.lianabrooks.com
Even Villains Go To The Movies – http://www.lianabrooks.com/2000/10/even-villains-go-to-movies-official-page.html
Jane Doe: The Day Before – http://www.lianabrooks.com/2001/01/jane-doe-official-page.html

2. How do you choose names for your characters?

It really depends on the book. Sometimes I have a name before I develop a story, sometimes I go on Twitter and ask for suggestions because I know the character but not the name. Sometimes the names are written in stone from Day 1, but there are books where I’ve changed the main character’s name twelve times in two drafts. In most cases I try to choose names that have some meaning.

3. Do you talk about your book/characters as though they are real?

Yes! Doesn’t everyone?

4. Do you listen to music when you write or edit? What kind?

It depends on the book. In EVEN VILLAINS GO TO THE MOVIES I have a salsa scene and when I was writing and editing it I had a couple of salsa songs playing on repeat. I wrote most of JANE DOE: THE DAY BEFORE (out in April) without music because, to me, it’s a tense book and the main character appreciates silence. I have another WIP that I made a soundtrack of Celtic music for because the book needs music.

5. How long have you been writing?

Professionally? My first published-for-money short story came out in 2009, so five years. I’ve been writing for fun longer than that, but 2009 is really when I switched from being a hobby writer to pursuing publication in a serious way.

6. Tell us about when you realized you were ‘meant to be’ a writer.

Don’t hate me for saying this, but I’ve never felt that way. I know some authors feel they were called to write, but I’ve never had a flash of inspiration that compelled me to write. I think I’d be good at anything I put my mind to, and writing was an easy thing to focus on when I was a young mother fresh out of college. I was in a situation that made working outside the home difficult and writing was something selfish that benefited only me. Being a full-time stay-at-home parent can be draining emotionally and psychologically and, at least for me, I found writing was a good way to refill my emotional reserve so I could turn around and be the person I needed to be for family and friends. It was a form of therapy that I’ve turned into a career.

7. Do you have a muse?

No, but I have skeletons in the closet.
Honestly, I can’t have a muse and meet deadlines. If I only wrote on the days I felt creative and energized I’d still be writing my first novel.

8. How do you improve as a writer? (Workshops, conferences, reading)

Reading and listening. I would love to attend workshops and cons but I’ve never managed to fit one into my schedule. Luckily for me (and you!) many people will live-tweet events and there are millions of talented people who blog about every aspect of the industry. If there’s something I can’t find with a quick Google search than I turn to my writing group or industry friends.

9. Writing quirks or superstitions?

I always expect my book to fail. I send queries out expecting rejections. I publish planning to receive one-star reviews. I don’t daydream about the best seller list. If those successes come, I’m ecstatic, but I’m expecting the worse so it isn’t a horrible shock when those punches come.

10. Tell us about your current work-in-progress.

Ah… just one? I have a Lazy Susan method of writing so I have multiple projects in different stages at once. Right now I’m writing the first draft of JANE 2, the fourth Heroes and Villains novella is on draft three, and I have some short stories bouncing around on the pot boiler. And I have an urban fantasy novel about the search for the second King Arthur that’s with my beta readers for editing. That one’s really fun. Fairies and guns are a good combination.

11. What book are you reading now?

IN THE MIDST OF ALARMS by Dianne Graves a book about the women involved in the War of 1812. My husband is a big history buff and when we travel we like to stop at historic sites. While we were in Charleston, South Carolina, a number of years ago we went to Fort Sumter and I was struck by the poignancy of the stories we didn’t hear. Three women were at Fort Sumter during the Civil War, isolated from society, marooned on this island with the soldiers and their husbands, and their voice in history is largely silent. I wanted so much to read the journals of these women and understand how they felt during those battles. Since then I’ve made a point to buy any book written by or about women in times of war. We don’t learn these things in history class and we’re missing so much because these women who framed history left a written record. They wrote in journals. They kept diaries of their life in the wilderness and under siege. And I find it fascinating.

12. What genre do you write in? What about PoV?

Most my books are sci-fi romance or sci-fi with a touch of romance. Explosions, fast ships, and happily ever after make me happy. And I usually write in third person point of view. Science fiction tends to have a larger cast of characters than some of the other genres like contemporary or historical romance and having a third person POV means I can tell the story from multiple angles.

13. Tell us about writing preparation. Character Profiles? Outlines?

When I get a new idea I’ll write the first few thousand words before I sit down to work out details and outlines. Most ideas don’t pan out. I have a folder with all the books I’ve started and on average I start 75 new story ideas each year. Of those 75 three might become finished stories. The first few chapters let me get a feel for the world. If the story gains traction I sit down and plot out my villains, my plot twists, and what my character’s want. Some stories get very elaborate outlines with inspiration boards and timelines, some of them get very little. It just depends on what I need to make the story complete.

14. Do you know how your stories will end?

I always think I do! I won’t write the book if I don’t have an ending in mind, but often enough the ending I planned isn’t the one you see in the finished manuscript. Stories change as you write them and the plot needs to grow with them.

15. Do you books have a message or theme? Or are they purely for entertainment?

Even books written purely for entertainment have a message. How could they not? Books reflect the values and prejudices of the reader, they make us think, and any book you read will tell you something about yourself.
That being said, I’ve noticed a tendency to write about choice and consequence a lot. There’s an underlying theme of “Your choices define you.” But I hope I don’t beat readers over the head with that.

16. Do you have any favorite snacks or drinks that you eat/drink while writing?

Chocolate, of course! And water. And I really like toasted acorn squash seeds. They’re so much yummier than pumpkin seeds!

17. Tell us about your other passions.

Cooking and parenting are where most my time is spent. I love to cook elaborate, gourmet meals. Good food can be hard to find if you don’t live near a big city so I’ve taught myself to make some delicious dishes. If I had free time (and unlimited funds) I’d do more SCUBA diving. And if a spaceship ever lands in my front yard I am stealing it so I can explore the stars. You’re welcome to come along.

18. What’s something interesting about you?

English is not my first language. Both my parents speak Spanish and we lived in a part of San Diego where most people didn’t use English at home so I the first few years of my life I knew more Spanish and ASL than I did English. That changed when we moved to Chicago and now I can barely say hello in either language.

19. Share a small sample (limit to one paragraph, please) of your writing… can be a WIP or already published.

This is from the urban fantasy my critique partners are reading right now. The working title is LADY OF THE LAKE:

The cloying scent of damp moth and rotting leaves perfumed the air, but there was a tainted smell beneath that. A hint of poisoned blood that made my skin prickle. “I read a book once,” I told Colina as the forest canopy grew thicker.
“Oh, aye? That’s bonnie. Everyone should read at least once in their life.”
I’d have punched her in the shoulder but she’d traded her forest rags for heavy leather and chainmail. Even in my own plate armor I wasn’t sure I could bruise her. “I was saying I read a book once with a dark forest like this.”
“How’d it end?” Colina asked as something skittered in the underbrush.
“Everyone died.”

20. Anything you’d like to say to your current and future readers?

I love you! Writing a book might be a solitary act but the fun part is always sharing the story with someone else. I’m so grateful for the people who are willing to invest time and money on an unknown author. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to share the stories I love. You are the best!

Thanks, Liana. We are so glad you featured with us today. Best of luck to you!!
E&M

For Your Reading Pleasure…Melissa Palmer

For our Black Friday feature, we have Melissa Palmer, author of the recently released book, Twin Oaks. We’re glad to have her with us to talk about the writing process.

1. Tell us about yourself. May include links to Facebook, twitter, blogs, websites, Amazon author page)

I’m Melissa Palmer, not the doctor who writes about Hepatitis or Missy from Homestarrunner, but the author or strange short stories, the autism and mental health crusader, and the author of TWIN OAKS and A LIFE LESS NORMAL. I’m also known as @Noompsydahling where I tweet entirely too many pictures of my cat, cupcakes, and Supernatural memes.
My facebook is http://www.facebook.com/MelissaPalmerWriter

I blog at http://www.melissapalmerwritesbooks.blogspot.com

My Twin Oaks site is here https://www.facebook.com/notes/open-books/open-books-to-release-twin-oaks-by-melissa-palmer-on-december-10-2014/10152117907352824

I’m also on Goodreads, but I am a notoriously bad Goodreads updater.

2. How do you choose names for your characters?

Some just come to me because they sound cool, as in the case of Wilma Womack. But some are me being crafty. I have a girl named Iris in the book I’m working on who is based on my daughter Sophie. So I wanted a name we considered for her, plus one that really captures her personality. Mrs. Ringhaus of Twin Oaks is a character who realizes she’s spent her life running in circles…so…I kind of play with names a little bit there. Other times I’m just goofy, as in Gustav the dog, who is based on and named after my cat Gus.

3. Do you talk about your book/characters as though they are real?

They’re not?

4. Do you listen to music when you write or edit? What kind?

I have a steady diet of pre-writing music to get me in the mood. Right now it’s a lot of Hozier. I don’t think I’ve ever connected to an album the way I do with Hozier’s latest release. Some of those songs get me right in the back of the throat. My WIP, BAKING FOR DAVE was born out of the Dave Matthews Pandora station. I guess I have music for baking too.

5. How long have you been writing?

Since first grade, kindergarten really.

6. Tell us about when you realized you were ‘meant to be’ a writer.

I remember being in second grade and waking up in the middle of the night because I “had to write an idea down”. It was a haiku about squirrels, I think, but I remember as a little squirt sneaking into my closet (there was a light in there) and writing into the wee hours of the morning.

7. Do you have a muse?

The right music definitely impacts what I’m writing. Also, as strange as it sounds, water. So many story ideas have come to me when I was in the shower or doing dishes.

8. How do you improve as a writer? (Workshops, conferences, reading)

Rewriting. Teaching writing helps. I am kind of mental about writing, as far as making sure I get it in. I never stop. Even if I’m “blocked” I’m working on other aspects of the writing; things like this, or pre-writing, short stories if I’m not working on a novel. Also, I try very hard to pick at scabs. That is, if something bothers me in real life, I try to slay it in a book. That’s why there are so many things that happen in my books that are mirrored in my life in some way. It’s cheaper than therapy. :]

9. Writing quirks or superstitions?

I always write better when I’m ovulating. I only edit when I am cursed.

10. Tell us about your current work-in-progress.

Baking for Dave follows the journey of a young girl with autism who runs away from home to compete in a national bake-off. She connects to the world through Dave Matthews music.

11. What book are you reading now?

I am in mourning for having finished the GoT books. And by the time this is published I will have finished the new Lestat book.

12. What genre do you write in? What about PoV?

I write contemporary and psychological literary fiction. POV changes depending on the story. My memoir was in first person. And as different as my two books may seem they are really quite similar. While I was frustrated writing my memoir I started thinking about people and their secrets. Then I started thinking, Wouldn’t it be better if everyone just dug the skeletons out of their closets? That ended up being the question that started Twin Oaks. Writing fiction got me to the heart of my non-fiction and both works benefited.

13. Tell us about writing preparation. Character Profiles? Outlines?

I am definitely a bit of a madwoman when it comes to the way I write. First there is a notebook where I scrawl down the idea. Then I rewrite that idea in a neater hand, with some semblance of organization. (Sometimes this second step of the process will include sketches. I don’t mean this in the sense of literary character sketch. I mean this in the sense of- I grab my daughters’ crayons and colored pencils and draw out characters and neighborhoods. After that I type out all my notes. They become the skeletons of chapters.

14. Do you know how your stories will end?

Always

.
15. Do you books have a message or theme? Or are they purely for entertainment?

I always start out telling myself it’s just going to be a story. But no matter what I’m writing there is always a theme of isolation, of individual versus the “norm”. I guess I have some demons I still have to work out in the old noggin’.

16. Do you have any favorite snacks or drinks that you eat/drink while writing?

I try not to just because I don’t eat after 8 pm and I’m a nocturnal writer. But oddly enough, I noticed when I wrote TWIN OAKS I had a bit of a tradition of the pre-chapter beer. Otherwise I was getting way to precious and nit-picky about what I was doing.

17. Tell us about your other passions.

I LOVE baking, probably too much. I like to make baked goods that are like my writing, fill them with unexpected surprises like bacon and booze. There is a character in TWIN OAKS who is probably a little too much like me as far as getting mental about distance running. Running, as I forgot to mention in the other question, is also another way I get inspired. Something about the silence and solitude, the rhythm of those steps. I get some really good stuff halfway through a run. I also have a character in TWIN OAKS who talks to her dog like he’s a person. She may or may not also be based on someone very close to me. But in my defense I also talk to my cat and fish like they are people.

18. What’s something interesting about you?

I have a cadaver hip. (Side effect of way too much distance running.)

19. Share a small sample (limit to one paragraph, please) of your writing… can be a WIP or already published. This is the blurb I wrote up for my publisher for release.

Twin Oaks is the ideal neighborhood. It’s got manicured gardens, potluck dinners, and good neighbors—the kind that keep their bodies buried deep.
Mrs. Womack is the eyes and the ears of the cul-de-sac, who sees everything but her own loveless marriage. She could be plotting murder as she makes small talk with her genius dog, or she could be thinking about her next sandwich. Mr. Chalmers doesn’t like to leave the house much, but he does love explosives and things that go boom. Mrs. Ringhaus likes a life of structure and rules. The thought of ripping off her clothes makes her blush. At first. Ms. Bea is the reasonable type who is good at pretending folks don’t stare, especially when they do. Then there’s Mr. Pollack, the frustrated painter in a search of truth and love. His wife April searches neither. She never asks once about Mrs. MacMillan, the founding member of the ladies club who has disappeared. Instead she takes in tea with Mrs. Granger, whose teeth look too long for her mouth; and with Annabelle, a known man-eater; and Abigail, who seems to have misplaced her mind. April doesn’t question why the Twin Oaks Homeowner’s Association is not what it seems.
Nothing in Twin Oaks is.

20. Anything you’d like to say to your current and future readers?

Thanks so much for reading. This has been a big year for me. To think after ten years of submitting I got two contracts in the same week. It’s unbelievable the way these things work. I cannot express my gratitude any more than that.

Thanks, Melissa. Good luck with Twin Oaks.
E&M

Elizabeth Burgess

Author of Southern Fiction

For Your Reading Pleasure

For Your Reading Pleasure…Casey Fry

For Your Reading Pleasure…Liltera R. Williams