What is your writing process like?
I write daily. I usually give myself at least two hours, even if my creative juices aren't flowing. Then if I get on a roll, I may write all day. On days I can't write, I keep my notebook handy in case something pops into my head. I almost always write from memories, real life experience.
How do you come up with ideas for stories and characters?
I look back on all the characters I've met in my life. I love to come up with names too. Sometimes a name can form a character's personality. Nearly all my stories are based on me in one way or another. I like to write about family situations we all have.
What do the words “writer’s block” mean to you?
I haven't experienced a serious case. It means you go hours or days without a thought or storyline. When I produce material, I'm not happy with, sometimes I feel what I consider a 'block.' If I go many days without writing at all, I often have a small 'block' when I finally sit down to start or complete a story.
How do you process and deal with negative book reviews?
I learn, learn, learn. And I remember that not everyone likes the same kind of style or story.
How long have you been writing, or when did you start?
I started writing in first grade when my teacher had us write a story as an assignment. She was impressed and sent mine to Children's Digest and Highlights magazines. It was published in both. Throughout school, I continued to impress with my stories and writing assignments. After college, I didn't write until after I had my second daughter. I started again on a word processor my brother bought used for me.
What advice would you give writers working on their first book?
Don't hesitate. Just start. My first novel came out of my head quickly. I wrote it and self-published it in six months. It was 405 pages. I did my own editing and designed my own cover. Then after more than a month of not writing, I decided I had more to write about these characters, and I committed to a trilogy.
How many books have you written, and which is your favorite?
I have written 4 novels. The first didn't get published, but instead rewritten. The next one was my favorite, but as I began the second book of the trilogy, I realized I loved them all! I am now working on my 5th. It will be a collection of stories about my experiences directing 20 shows for our community theater. It may only sell here in my hometown, but I'm OK with that. I truly don't write to make money, but because I enjoy it.
What part of the book did you have the hardest time writing?
The end
What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?
Solitude and music. Most of the time I have to have coffee too.
If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?
Definitely James Patterson. I've patterned my trilogy after him in his style of writing in short chapters, moving from character to character. He's my favorite to read too.