Ester Lopez's Blog: Writing on the Edge of Reality, page 5

Jacqueline T. Johnson

Hello everyone! Today I’m speaking with author Jacqueline T. Johnson. How are you Jacqueline? And can you tell us what made you decide to become a writer?

Becoming a writer wasn’t something I had strived for as a career. Quite frankly, I wrote my first sentence from being inspired by a scene from Disney’s “Peter Pan.” There is a scene where Captain Hook blows up Peter’s treehouse. Tinker Bell is caught in the explosion. As Peter desperately tries to dig her out, he compels her not to let her light go out. I was sitting at my table watching this movie for a thousand times, when I grabbed a piece of paper and wrote, “Can you love someone so deeply that you feel their pain?” From that one sentence, I wrote five books.

Wow. How long did it take to get published the first time and how did it happen?

From writing, to editing, to rewriting, repeat, find cover design, to locate a publisher I felt comfortable as a first time writer took about a year and a half.

That was fast! Would you do anything differently the next time? If so, what would it be?

I would be a little more patient and encouraging with myself.

Yes, as writers, we can be hard on ourselves at times. What advice would you give an aspiring author?

Be your strongest supporter. Be patient, work the process and believe it is possible.

Jacqueline, what or who inspires or influences your writing?

I write adventure fantasy, so I love a good thriller, action and anime stories.

So, what are your latest releases and when or where can we find them?

“Sons of Meir Season End” is the latest book. You can find them on www.amazon.com and www.barnesandnoble.com

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How long have you been writing, Jacqueline?

I’ve been writing since 2013, part-time.

And what do you do for fun when you aren’t writing?

Watch anime and play video games.

Sounds like fun! Where do you reside?

Virginia.

Do you have any appearances or book signings scheduled this year?

My plan is to start out strong in 2020.

Thank you Jacqueline. I wish you luck in 2020. You can find Jacqueline at www.jt-johnson.com.

Author Natalie Decker

Today, I’m speaking with author Natalie Decker. Hi Natalie! Can you tell me what made you decide to become a writer?

I decided to write stories for a living because my imagination is always going, and what better way to use that then to put it on pages for the world to read.

Exactly! How long did it take you to get published the first time and how did it happen?

Excellent question. It took four years until I actually published a book. I did all the steps, wrote a bunch of crap until I found a story worth a read. I sent out query letters for an agent first, but then my friend said why not try to query a smaller press myself. Eventually, I did that and a few months later, got a lovely letter of ‘we love to publish your manuscript.’

That’s awesome! It took me 25 years to publish my first book. Would you do anything differently the next time? If so, what would it be?

Learn the craft a little more, but mostly know everything was a learning experience and I’m grateful for it.

Yes, that was why it took me so long, but there’s always more we can learn. What advice would you give an aspiring author, Natalie?

Write your story, then study stories similar to yours. Pick the differences that set yours apart from those books. Use best selling titles, too. Also, never be ashamed of what you wrote.

Nice. What or who inspires or influences your writing?

My children and everyday life. As well as my publisher and editor. They push me to grow and develop into a better form of me with every book.

What are your latest releases and when or where can we find them?

Rival Love Series

Scandalous Boys

Offsides Series:

Right Text Wrong Number (Available now)Forkert Nummer (in Danish Available now)

Right Kiss Wrong Guy (Available now)

Forkert Kys (in Danish Available now)Right Girl Wrong Timing (Available now)

You can find all my books on Amazon.com

How long have you been writing professionally and do you write full-time or part-time?

I write full-time and have been writing for almost nine years now.

So tell me, Natalie, what do you do for fun when you aren’t writing?

Depends on my mood. I’ve skydived, go to the beach, drive go-carts, ride four wheelers, swim, dance, sing, hang out with family and my dog, play video games, read, travel, shop, cook, it all depends on my mood.

Wow! That’s a lot of stuff. Since you mentioned the beach, where do you live?

In Florida, on the Gulf side.

Those are the best beaches, in my opinion. Do you have any appearances, Natalie?

I have not scheduled anything at the moment, but I do plan on going to IRC in the fall. You can always check my website of where I will be: www.authornataliedecker.com

Thanks, Natalie. Thanks for being here. Natalie and I met at an IRC event, which is Indie Romance Convention. Check it out: www.indieromanceconvention.com

Thank you so much for having me as a guest. I really enjoyed these questions. I will be having a few new books coming out this year. Please be on the look out for “Dateable” by Natalie Decker. I hope you all have a lovely day.

Author T.S. Petersen

I got to speak with author, T.S. Petersen recently. I wanted to know what got her interested in writing and becoming a writer.

I took up creative or fictional writing after the birth of my first child in 2015. I had been intending on returning to university to attain a degree in education, but fell pregnant with my baby boy. With the degree out of the question, I opted to take part in a fantastic creative writing course, and that really spurred me on and helped me focus my creative energy.

How long did it take to get published the first time and how did it happen?

I began writing Moribund before I got pregnant with my daughter in 2016. After some understandable delays, I finally decided to self-publish Moribund in March 2019.

Would you do anything differently the next time? If so, what would it be?

Self-publishing has been a huge learning curve, having said that, I don’t believe there would be anything I would do differently. Guaranteed the next time I publish will be easier than the first, but I’d likely still do what I did for Moribund.

What advice would you give an aspiring author?

Keep at it. There are going to be days when you look at your work and you hate it, or you wonder if anyone else would ever want to read it. Don’t listen to that little negative voice in your head, just keep writing. I write the stories that play on repeat in my head. I write the stories I desperately want to read but can’t find. Write what you love and don’t be afraid to get stuck into some research if the story you have circling your mind is out of your comfort zone.

I like that. What or who inspires or influences your writing?

Jennifer Rardin, Kim Harrison, and Laurell K. Hamilton are three authors I love to read and look up to. Their stories have kept me entertained and helped me escape some very difficult times in my life. Their creativity and writing styles are mesmerizing to me. I would also like to add that my initial beta readers inspire me to keep writing. They boosted my confidence when I wondered if I had even an ounce of talent. They pushed me to keep writing so they could keep reading. For this I am extremely grateful.

What are your latest releases and when or where can we find them?

My latest release is my debut novel, Moribund. This paranormal romance is the first book in the Evanee Sheperd Series. It can be found on most major online outlets such as Amazon, iTunes, Kobo, Barnes & Nobel, Baker & Taylor, and Bibliotheca. Moribund is also registered with Ingram Spark, so independent bookstores world wide can purchase copies should you want a hard copy. Be sure to ask them to look it up and get some copies in. The ISBN is 978-0-6485364-0-6. https://books2read.com/u/bwqdee

How long have you been writing professionally, T.S., and do you write full-time or part-time?

I’d say I’ve been writing professional since 2016, which is when I started Moribund. This was the first storyline I jotted down on paper and stuck to. I have two other stories sitting in a box under my desk that I have no intention of touching. For the most part, I write part-time. My babies come first and then my writing. If I’m fortunate enough to be able to make a decent living on my work, I would love to write full-time once my kids head to primary school.

I completely understand that! So what do you do for fun when you are not writing?

I love to go on little adventures with my family when I’m not writing. I’m usually posting images of our adventures on Facebook, twitter, and Instagram. I love reading and watching movies in my down time, and have way too many books and DVDs lining my shelves. I also enjoy cooking and camping.

Where do you live, T.S.?

I am fortunate enough to call Atherton in Far North Queensland, Australia, my home. It is a small rural town, roughly 1 hour 10 minutes from Cairns. Most people know Cairns for the great barrier reef.

Wow! That’s pretty far from my home in Tennessee. Do you have any appearances or book signings scheduled this year? And, if so, where are they?

I attended the Yungaburra Book Fair in August, 2019.

So sorry I missed that T.S. I hope it turned out well. You can find T.S. Petersen online as Tammy S. Petersen. Her website is: https://tspetersen307.wixsite.com/website

Author, Carrie Humphrey

I can’t believe it’s been three months since my last interview. Time flies when you are busy. I’ve been busy with everything but writing. How about you? What have you been up to? You can always comment on the blog posts.

I recently met Carrie at a book signing that turned into a writing retreat. The retreat was so successful, we decided to do it again next year. It was great fun with authors Adrienne Dunning, Kimberley O’Malley, and Katherine L.E. White.

I had to ask Carrie what made her decide to become a writer?

“To be honest, I’m not sure! I love the idea of creating worlds, situations and people. The idea that I can take a passion of mine and turn it into a story that people can love is fantastic. I feel that I have a creative mind and writing is the perfect outlet to get all that out of my head and into the minds of others!”

How long did it take to get published the first time and how did it happen?

“I self published, so it was on my own terms and time. From the start of my idea of a book to when I hit publish was a year and a half.”

Wow, that was fast! Would you do anything differently the next time? If so, what would it be?

“Nope. Everything that I have done, whether it was a mistake or not, has led me to where I am today and I’d not ever change that!”

What advice would you give an aspiring author?

“My best piece of advice would be to just write. Don’t think about what you need to do when the story is done, just get the story done! That’s one of the hardest things to do, is to complete the story! Once there, everything else will come. Also, ask for help and ask all the questions. Seriously, we as authors didn’t get to where we are alone. We’d all love to help you out, so ask us anything!”

What (or who) inspires or influences you’re writing?

“I’d like to believe that everything inspires my writing. I take from the books I read, the people I meet and see, the situations around me and life in general.”

So true. How long have you been writing professionally Carrie, and do you write full-time or part-time?

“I’ve been writing for about 3 years now and it’s a part-time thing that I hope to change into a full-time thing someday?

Me, too! So, what do you do for fun when you are not writing?

“I’m actually a stay at home mom of a Senior in High School, an 8th grader, and a Kindergardener! I also love to travel, read, hang out with friends and be involved in my community.”

I know all of that keeps you busy. I led that life years ago. So where do you reside?

“I live in North Carolina in a smallish town by Lake Norman.”

Do you have any appearances/book signings scheduled this year? And if so, where are they?

“I’ll be at the Sweet As A Peach Indie Author Event in Cumming, GA on October 5th!”

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Author Shay Michaelson

Today I’m speaking with author, Shay Michaelson. Hello Shay, and welcome to AuthorBlogSpot. Tell me, what made you decide to become a writer?

I love to create worlds in my head. The relationship between two people fascinates me. I always wonder what it was that one person saw in the other that made them think “that’s the one for me.”

I’ve often wondered about that myself. So, how long did it take you to get published the first time and how did it happen?

I started writing for myself about ten years ago (maybe longer?), but never really did anything with it. At the time, self-publishing wasn’t an option. I had no clue how to get a publishing company to even read my manuscript. All the horror stories said unless you knew someone in the industry, your manuscript would more than likely end up in a slush pile. When self-publishing started making headway, my husband pushed me to try it and see how it goes.

Would you do anything differently the next time? And if so, what would it be?

I’m still really new at this and still not sure about a lot of things. Marketing is something I wish I knew how to do better.

You and me both! What advice would you give an aspiring author?

Go to a writer’s conference. You can pick up a lot of information at those.

I know I did. When I joined RWA, I soaked up all I could about the craft of writing the first time or two and then learned all I could about the publishing industry. But marketing seems to be an ongoing educational endeavor for me. So, Shay, what (or who) inspires or influences your writing?

I love, love, love a book that can pull at my heartstrings. I love it when I can feel what the characters are feeling. When the guy decides he wants the woman, chases after her, then something or someone gets in their way and rips them apart. (Usually, it’s something the man did.)

Of course. What are your latest releases and when and where can we find them?

“His to Lose” is the third book in my “Hell’s Minions MC Series.” You can find them at:

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https://www.amazon.com/His-Lose-Hells-Minions-Book-ebook/dp/B07PGX3B74 https://books2read.com/u/bzLakE

How long have you been writing professionally, Shay, and do you write full-time or part-time?

I self-published my first book March 17, 2018. I write part-time since I’m still a full-time school nurse. I have three more years and then I can retire and write full-time!

Yay! That’s my dream, too, except I’m already retired but still have to work. It seems life keeps throwing things at me to keep me from writing full-time, but someday… In the meantime, tell me what you do for fun when you are not writing.

Reading, swimming/hanging out at my pool or going to the river with my husband.

That sounds wonderful! Where do you reside, Shay?

I live in Missouri.

Do you have any appearances/book signings scheduled this year? And where are they?

Yes. I’m going to be at the Indie Romance Convention Oct 9-12th in Lebanon, TN. I’m really excited. It’s my first ever signing.

Wow! I’m going to be there as well. We definitely have to get some photos together. You’ll love it! I’m looking forward to it also. Thank you, Shay, for spending time with me. You can find Shay at www.shaymichaelsonauthor.com or email her at shaymichaelsonauthor@gmail.com

Holly S. Roberts

Today, I have the privilege of speaking with Holly S. Roberts. I met Holly a couple years ago at the Indie Romance Convention in Lebanon, TN.  Hi Holly! Can you tell me what made you decide to become a writer?

I always knew I would write. My biggest problem was sitting still. After several years of a career in law enforcement, my ADHD had an outlet and I was able to sit and type. I haven’t stopped.

You know, I have met a lot of authors who admit to having ADHD or ADD. You’re in good company. How long did it take to get published the first time and how did it happen?

After 200 query rejections to agents, I bit the bullet and self-published. Best thing I ever did. I now have an agent, Hollywood contract, and write full-time.

Good for you! Would you do anything differently the next time? If so, what would it be?

Save my pennies until I could afford an editor. Back in the beginning of my writing career, money was an issue. I’m slowly going back through those first books, rewriting, and having them professionally edited. What a difference.

What advice would you give an aspiring author?

Finish the first book. Don’t think about whether it’s good or bad, just finish.

Good advice! What or who inspires or influences your writing?

Love inspires me. I’ve seen horrible things but love has a way of reshaping us. I read romance and write it  because we need happy endings in this world.

I agree with that. What are your latest releases and when or where can we find them?

“Shadow” (Book 1 Genetically Modified Novels) This is a post-apocalyptic, paranormal, and urban fantasy. Take your pick.

 

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“Warrior” (Book 2 Genetically Modified Novels) just released on March 5th!

That’s awesome! How long have you been writing professionally?

I write full-time and started writing at the age of 50 in 2011. I’ve never looked back.

Good for you! Holly, what do you do for fun when you’re not writing?

I’m a gym rat, have a personal kick boxing trainer and love to exercise. For fun, I roller skate and hike. When I’m exhausted, I read.

I love exercising too, it’s just getting back into the habit that’s the hard part. So, Holly, where do you live?

Arizona.

That’s a lovely state. I’ve driven through there and would like to go back some day. Do you have any appearances or book signings scheduled for this year?

This year is all about my 40th wedding anniversary. My husband and I married at age 18. We are renting a state park for our family and having a weekend bash to rival all bashes. Because of this, I don’t have appearances scheduled this year, but look out 2020. Basically, I’m in party planning and book writing mode this year.

I totally get that. Could you leave us with a website or Facebook page?

www.wickedstorytelling.com                                         http://twitter.com/hollysroberts

http://facebook.com/hollysrobertsauthor

And do you write under any other name besides your given name?

I write under several names but Holly S. Roberts is my go-to and I’m slowly adding my “Holly” name to those books. My movie option is for my life-story and will be the first book/movie released under my real name. That’s a secret for now and I’m nervous about letting the real me out of the closet. My Holly Roberts books tend to be steamy. “Shadow” and “Warrior” are, however, rated PG 16.

Looking forward to seeing those two, Holly. Thanks for spending time with me!

 

Author Victoria Saccenti

Today, I’m speaking with author, Victoria Saccenti. Victoria and I met at the Indie Romance Convention in Lebanon, TN a couple years ago. Then we ran into each other at the last Romantic Times Book Lovers Convention in Reno last year.

Hello Victoria. Tell me, what made you decide to become a writer?

First and foremost, I want to thank you for inviting me to chat with you and your wonderful readers about my work. Truly, this is an honor.

The honor is mine, I assure you.

My writing journey began decades ago. I grew up in a home of avid readers. My parents had an extensive library that went from Greek mythology and the Classics to modern works. I used to stare at the gorgeous leather bound books wondering when I’d be allowed to peruse the edge-gilded pages. Mom must have been watching, because the moment I learned to read, she placed in my anxious hands my own copy of  “The Mystery of the Black Jungle.” The first volume of the Tigers of Malaysia Series, written by Emilio Salgari, Italy’s beloved writer of adventure fiction. There I was, at the age of six, exploring the jungles of the Sundarbans in British India, my exhilarated imagination working at top speed. Subsequently, I wrote fantasies and fairytales to use during playtime with my sister and cousins.

Growing up, I kept a diary and a book under my arm at all times. When I was stationed in London with an international carrier, I returned to writing short stories – my favorite pastime. Some of the stories I sent to my mother in my weekly letters, others I’ve kept, and the rest I have lost during multiple moves.

That must have been hard for you.

Years later, I was driving home from work at 2:00 in the morning, when the main character of my first book materialized–in my head, of course–demanding I write his story.

Don’t you love it when that happens? I do!

I’m convinced most writers have a touch of schizophrenia. The next day, and completely out of the blue, a dear friend came up with a similar question. Since you love reading so much, why don’t you write a book? Kismet? Coincidence? Destiny? Maybe all three, and the rest is history, as they say.

How long did it take to get published the first time and how did it happen?

I completed Destiny’s Plan–the first manuscript–in 2014, then the editing and rewriting process began. In 2015, I shopped the manuscript, but that didn’t work well, so after lengthy conversations with and advice from fellow authors, I went Indie.

Would you do anything differently the next time? If so, what would it be?

In retrospect, I might have done a third rewrite. I may still do it.

What advice would you give an aspiring author?

Always, always, always seek out and hire a good editor. Editors can make or break your work. After that, I would recommend using beta readers to go over your manuscript.

Victoria, what or who inspires or influences your writing?

The human condition, spiritual faults, flaws, and triumphs are powerful inspirations to my Muse. She’s terribly demanding and the one who sees and dictates the writing path.

So, what are your latest releases and when/where can we find them?

In 2017, I completed “Destiny’s Way,” the last book in the Destiny Trilogy and in September 2018, I released “Noémie’s Journey.”

How long have you been writing professionally and do you write full-time or part-time?

I began writing in earnest in 2012 – it was an on-off endeavor, as I was still working my other job. In order to complete “Destiny’s Plan,” I had to dedicate a great deal of time to research. That’s when  realized that I couldn’t do both careers. I retired in 2013 and I have dedicated my time to writing and learning more about the craft ever since.

And what do you do for fun when you aren’t writing, Victoria?

As I said at the beginning, reading is my first passion. Movies come in a close second. I don’t mind going alone if dear hubby won’t join me. I also love to travel. My favorite destination is Scotland, so whenever I can escape, I go back.

Scotland sounds great! Where do you reside, Victoria?

I’m an “OTown” denizen. That means Orlando, Florida.

Cool. Do you have any appearances or book signings scheduled this year?

Yes, I have four events this year. If you’re in the vicinity, please stop by and say hello.

Authors Invade the Beach – May 4 – Myrtle Beach, SC  

Wild Deadwood Reads – June 6-8 – Deadwood, SD      

 Literary Love – Authors Rock Savannah – July 25-28 – Savannah, GA  

 Indie Book Convention – Aug 1-4 – Orlando, FL

Well, I’ll be seeing you in Myrtle Beach for sure.  Can you list your website for us?

I’m available on my website Victoria Saccenti Writes and Facebook as Victoria Saccenti Author. I do answer questions and love to interact with readers. For latest releases, check out my Amazon Author page Victoria Saccenti Author

Do you write under any other name besides your given name?

Currently, I’m not using a pen name, maybe in the future. I’m excited about my latest release, “Noémie’s Journey.” The story takes place in 1968 right after the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. The main characters are Richard Winters – we met him briefly in “Destiny’s Plan” and Noémie Bellerose, the lady he encounters when he travels to North Carolina. With this book, I come to the end of the 60’s exploration and how the decade defined our nation – a topic I used in the Destiny Trilogy and “Noémie’s Journey.” From now on, I’m concentrating on more contemporary story lines. My current WIP is set in 2013.

Thank you so much for taking time to speak with me, Victoria. I will see you in May and look forward to chatting about books!

 

 

Author Tara L. Ames

Today I’m speaking with author Tara L. Ames. Hello Tara. Thanks for taking time to speak with me. I appreciate it. Tell me, what made you decide to become a writer?

I always wanted to write ever since middle school, and I first started as the news editor for my high school newspaper. A few of my articles won honorable mentions in the Detroit News. Unfortunately, I didn’t pick up the creative pen until many years later.

Writing for newspapers is a whole different ball game than writing novels.

In the last two years, I’ve become serious about the publishing industry and have indie published a four book military romance series titled, “Alpha Aviator Series,” two anthologies, with two novellas due out February 2019.

That’s ambitious and smart to put several out at once. How long did it take to get published the first time and how did it happen?

In the indie publishing world, you can self-publish any time your manuscript is ready. That’s the beauty of being an indie author.

I love that part! Would you do anything differently the next time? If so, what would it be?

I would’ve become an indie author a lot sooner instead of trying to get with a traditional publisher.

Traditional publishing still takes a long time. What advice would you give an aspiring author?

I highly recommend you learn the craft and join Romance Writers of America at www.rwa.org and take advantage of all the courses they have to offer. There’s a lot more to writing a novel than good grammar and punctuation.

That is so true. So, who or what inspires or influences your writing?

My mom. She taught English literature for over thirty years and our house was filled with books when I was growing up. She introduced me to the joy of reading.

That is so awesome! What are your latest releases and when or where can we find them?

“A Seal’s Vow,” a military romance, is coming February 14, 2019 and is connected with over seven other authors. Our theme is Valentine Short Stories, and it’ll only be available on Amazon. Pre-order will start sometime in early January. (Book cover not available).

 

“Diamonds & Winning Hearts,” a sports novella, is featured in the sizzling hot ILLICIT boxset along with twenty-four other talented authors, coming February 5, 2019. Pre-order your copy now on most retail sites for only .99. If you order on Amazon, get an extra bonus: Get 19 free eBooks for pre-ordering ILLICIT from Amazon. Once you’ve pre-ordered, forward your proof of purchase, or a screenshot of your pre-order, to preorderillicit@gmail.com, to claim your books.

So, Tara, how long have you been writing professionally and do you write full-time or part-time?

I’ve been writing full-time for the last two years.

And what do you do for fun when you aren’t writing?

I love Tai Chi, walking, and traveling. Right now, I’m learning a new form of Tai Chi, using a sword. Who knows. maybe someday you’ll see me up in the big screen performing a martial arts scene-LOL!

And where do you reside?

Sunny Florida, where we have balmy breezes and plenty of Margaritas to drink-cheers!

Do you have any appearances/book signings scheduled this year?

I’ll be appearing at the Space Coast Book Lovers event from 5/31-6/3 in Cocoa Beach, Florida. Tickets are available now.

Thank you Tara. I wish I could join you there. You can find Tara at these locations:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/TLAmesTeamAlpha/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/YoursEverAfters/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/militaryromance/

https://amazon.com/authortaralames

https://www.goodreads.com/taralamesauthor

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/tara-l-ames

https://www.taralames.com

http://www.instagram.com/taralamesauthor

http://www.twitter.com/taralamesauthor

http://www.facebook.com/taralamesauthor

 

K. Ries Interview

Today, I’m speaking with author, K. Ries. Hello K. thanks for speaking with me. Tell me, what made you decide to become a writer?

I loved telling stories. You get to use your imagination to create worlds that aren’t your own.

I love that too. Tell me, how long did it take to get published the first time and how did it happen?

About 8 month, but it was written way before that. I was on vacation with my best friend and the universe decided to “tell” us that we needed to publish the story we were writing.

Would you do anything differently the next time? If so, what would it be?

I took more time and made sure the story was what I wanted it to be.

What advice would you give an aspiring author?

Just keep writing. Ignore those who say you can’t or laugh at you. Write for you and NO ONE else. Who cares what anyone thinks, as long as you’re happy with the story that is all that matters. Do your homework. Don’t try to be like anyone else. Be your own person.

What (or who) inspires or influences your writing?

I get ideas from songs a lot of the time, or photos, or random conversations with friends.

What are your latest releases and when/where can we find them?

 

“Out of my Head” will be released on January 19th. “Soulmates” is my latest release which came out in July. I also took part in an anthology which debuted in November to help raise money for Autism.

 

How long have you been writing professionally and do you write full-time or part-time?

A year and two months professionally. Non-professionally at least 8 years, but prior to that I hadn’t written even a poem for thirteen years. I am a full-time writer who can only write part of the time thanks to life, kids, and things like that.

I can relate to that. So, K., what do you do for fun when you are not writing?

I read. I listen to music.

Cool. Where do you reside?

I am from Cleveland, Ohio. The Buckeye state. The Land.

Author Renee Regent

I met Renee at the Indie Romance Convention (IRC) in Lebanon, TN back in October. I just had to find out what got Renee started in writing.

Hi Renee, what made you decide to become a writer?

I’ve written stories in some form or another since I learned how to read! Now I can put my imagination to good use.

How long did it take to get published the first time and how did it happen?

I tried the traditional route earlier, before the internet. But, in 2012 I got serious about writing again and decided to indie publish. My first book, “Unexplained,” was published in 2016, and the two other books in the Higher Elevations series were published shortly after. I waited until all three were ready before releasing.

 

I heard that it was a good idea to release multiple books at a time. Would you do anything differently the next time? If so, what would it be?

In retrospect, I made a few mistakes, but that is all part of learning this industry. I just hope each new book does better than the last.

What advice would you give an aspiring author?

Get plenty of feedback. Whether going the traditional route or self-publishing, find beta readers and other authors to critique your work. Make your book the best it can be before submitting or publishing. Getting feedback also helps develop your ability to know what advice to listen to and what to disregard.

Who or what inspires or influences your writing?

Other authors I’ve met. I try to learn something from everyone, no matter their level of experience.

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What are your latest releases and when/where can we find them?

My next release is a Contemporary Romance entitled, “Not So Broken.” It’s the first book of the Love Grows Series, and I’m very excited about it. It’s in the final stages now and I hope to release it in the next month or so. I don’t have links or a release date yet, but very soon!

Can you tell us more about being self-published?

It suits me. I’ve always been an entrepreneur, so I like having control. That said, it’s a huge challenge and I am learning all the time.

How long have you been writing professionally and do you write full-time or part-time?

I got serious a few years ago when I realized other authors were making a career publishing their own books. Since then, I have been focusing every spare moment on it. I recently went back to work full time so my schedule is tough right now. But I am determined!

Renee, what do you do for fun when you aren’t writing?

I’m pretty domestic these days. Hubby and I go to the gym, sometimes dinner with my stepson or with friends. Writing is my fun!

And where do you reside?

I live north of Atlanta, Georgia.

Do you have any appearances or book signings scheduled this year?

Not until 2019, in May, I will be at the Capital City event in Alabama. In October, at the Indie Romance Convention in Tennessee.

I guess I’ll see you there in Tennessee. Renee can be found at www.reneeregent.com. You can email her at reneeregent@yahoo.com. Her blog page is on her website. You can find her books at Amazon at:  www.amazon.com/dp/B01M6VBISA and www.amazon.com/dp/B076FH1P65