Author interview with Becky Healy

From newspaper deadlines to creative freedom, writer Becky Healy has spent a lifetime chasing stories. Her nonfiction piece, The Bad Moon and Me, appears in Bad Moon on the Rise: An Anthology of the Unsettling, where she blends the sharp instincts of a journalist with the reflective tone of a storyteller exploring new terrain. In this interview, Becky shares how childhood mysteries sparked her love of writing, what keeps her inspired today, and how her definition of success has evolved from Oscar dreams to the quiet satisfaction of connecting with readers.

Becky Healy’s work appears in the recently released Bad Moon on the Rise: An Anthology of the Unsettling.

Q: What’s a memory of a story or book that made you realize you wanted to be a writer?
A: When I was in the fourth grade, I remember walking into my classroom one day and deciding I wanted to be a writer. I loved reading, especially the Nancy Drew mystery series, and the idea of creating these kinds of stories appealed to me. I didn’t know what kind of writing I wanted to do or how I would make it a career, but my decision to be a writer was born that day.

Q: When do you feel most “in the zone” with your writing—early mornings, late nights, or somewhere in between?
A: I’m at my best late in the afternoon. That’s when my brain settles and I can concentrate on putting words on paper.

Q: What’s a book that changed how you think about writing or storytelling?
A: Two books have helped me adjust and improve my craft. On Writing by Stephen King sharpened my storytelling skills. Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott provided great insight into the mechanics of writing. I also stop myself while reading a book or article and think about why I’m enjoying the read. I examine what techniques the writer used to grab and hold my attention. I look for word combinations that resonated with me. I tuck away my observations for future use.

Q: Do you find inspiration in other art forms (music, film, visual art)? If so, how does it shape your work?
A: I’ve recently been exploring songwriting and how songwriters use words and phrases to tell a story. Rhymes, metaphors and repeated phrases can be employed in novels or short stories. Trying new ways to shape a character or story arc is fun, and I hope it adds to reader’s experience.

Q: What’s a quirky or unexpected detail about your writing space?
A: My writing space is filled with toys, notes and other fun things I’ve collected. And a tiny book called Nancy Drew’s Guide to Life is perched on the windowsill near my computer.

Q: What’s a challenge you’ve faced in your writing career, and how did you overcome it?
A: I’ve been writing since I was in grade school, but I spent more than four decades writing for newspapers and in the corporate world. One of my challenges has been to open up my writing style, so to speak, and use more words to explain a situation or describe a character without overwhelming the reader. It has been challenging and fun.

Q: How do you define success as an author? Has that definition evolved over time?
A: I’m a huge movie buff. Watching the Oscars has been an annual event for me since I was in high school. My definition of success used to be accepting an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay based on my highly successful novel. (I used to practice my acceptance speech in front of the mirror!) Today, success is defined by reader feedback and personal fulfillment.

Q: What is your favorite genre to read? Do you write in that genre? Has that always been your favorite genre, or has your taste evolved as you have grown as a writer?
A: Nancy Drew mysteries ignited my love of reading. Next, I got hooked on Agatha Christie books. I still enjoy a good mystery. And I enjoy how authors such as Stephen King and Karen White weave mysterious elements into some of their novels.

Q: If your life were a novel, what would the title be?
A: I spent years writing for newspapers and magazines. I learned a lot. I interviewed hundreds of people. I wrote thousands of words. And I did it all with the reality of deadline hanging over my head. So, I’d call that novel Life on a Deadline.

Q: What projects are you working on at the present?
A: Retirement changed my perspective on writing. My routines and goals shifted. While I have two books in the works, I’m also exploring a couple of new ideas. I’m anxious to see how my writing evolves.

Becky Healy has returned to her love of fiction writing after retiring from a successful career in journalism and corporate communications. Her stories are blossoming on pages yet to be released. When not writing, she enjoys seeking inspiration from fellow writers, spending time with friends and exploring her native Colorado. Contact her at AQuietPage@outlook.com.

Now available in print and on Kindle!

While you’re here, don’t forget to check out my latest suspense novel, It Had to Happen, now available in print and on Kindle!

Book Summary

When Jack Utley loses his daughter just as his business is about to soar, it seems he’s traded financial gain for Callie’s life. After an encounter with a mysterious woman on the eve of Callie’s funeral, Jack wakes up to find that time has somehow rewound to the morning of Callie’s accident. Jack gets an opportunity that most grieving parents can only dream of – he saves his daughter’s life.

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