Writing is a skill that has always seemed to be in my toolbox. I’ve always been able to express myself better through writing than with verbal skills, so it seemed a natural path to take.
Did you have any influencing writers growing up?
Oh gosh. It all started with the Berenstain Bears, and moved on to Phyllis Reynolds Naylor (The Agony of Alice), Natalie Babbitt (Tuck Everlasting) and Lois Lowry (The Giver).
Are any of your characters based on people in real life?
There is one minor character I based on someone I used to work with that was nice to me when no one else was at a certain job.
Where do you draw your book inspirations from?
I get my love of Mafia from growing up watching General Hospital with my Mom, and that love was rekindled by Gotham.
Do you use have a basic outline when starting a new story or do you let the characters lead the way?
I do both. I have a notecard timeline to keep things straight, but let’s face it; the characters are in charge.
When you are picturing the characters in your book, do you have a cheater photo for inspiration?
I don’t use photos. I like to draw up the pictures in my imagination.
Many people read as a form of escape and relaxation. What is your favorite way to sit back and relax?
Lately I’ve been putting on music and playing Gin on my computer. I also have a weakness for reaction videos on Youtube!
Who are your favorite current authors to read?
I’m currently rereading the Harry Potter books as a comfort read. I have a couple comic books going, as well.
What are your favorite books by others?
I have a Deathly Hallows tattoo, so Harry Potter has to be mentioned.
I also love Romeo and Juliet, though not as a romantic standard.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream is also a favorite. I have an eclectic taste in books.
Do the locations in the stories have any meaning to you?
The library in the first Belvedere book is one that I’ve spent so much time in.
I didn’t specifically name a city so it could potentially be anywhere in the Midwest, but I did picture Indianapolis when writing.
Do you write in single or multiple POV?
I write in third person omniscient, though I do throw in character’s actual thoughts occasionally.
What do you find to be your best research tool?
Google!
Do you write under a pen name? Also, do you write under more than one name?
I do not.
What genre do you write and why is this your preference?
I write contemporary Mafia romance. I actually just wrote the story I had in me, and it happened to fall in the genre.
Tell me something about yourself outside of writing. Jobs, accomplishments, family, quirky trait...what led to you being you?
Hmm. Well, I LOVE the 1966 Batman series.
I collect Pioneer Woman kitcheny things.
Oh, and I have a half-sleeve of Green Day tattoos.
What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?
Write the story that’s in you, for you. Then deal with worrying about all the other stuff later.
How do you deal and process negative book reviews?
It depends on the kind of review.
If it makes sense I take it to heart and try to keep the constructive criticism in mind moving forward.
If it doesn’t, I yell at my screen. It’s all subjective.
What is the most difficult part of your writing process?
Keeping the need for validation out of the process.
What do you need in your writer’s space to keep you focused?
Good coffee.
What is your naughty indulgence as you are writing?
It used to be cigarettes, but I gave that up about a year and a half ago. So now it’s just good coffee or hard candy/cough drops to take the place of smoking.
If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose? And why?
I would like to spend a day with Stephen King, to talk about the writing and rejection/acceptance process of publishing.
What is your schedule like when you are writing? Do you have a favorite writing snack or drink?
I work a day job, so my writing schedule is a little sporadic. Coffee is my favorite drink while writing (Black with sugar).
Do you listen to music when you write – what kind of music is your favorite?
Music distracts me when I’m writing because I get too into it. I love classic rock and pop punk the most.
Have pets ever gotten in the way of your writing?
All. The. Time.
What is your kryptonite as a writer? What totally puts you off your game?
Mental Health can be an uphill battle sometimes. Writing is the first thing that suffers when I’m having a rough mental health spell.
If you’re reading this, and your creativity suffers from mental health struggles or meds, you’re not alone. 💗
Have you ever killed off a character that your readers loved?
They don’t know it outside of the test-reading group yet, but yes.
How do you celebrate after typing THE END?
A long, deep breath, and a moment to relax, knowing I did it.
I hope you enjoyed this interview!
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