- FAQ -
What do you like to write about? Do you stick to a particular genre or do you like to explore different ones?
I often compare writing to Skittles—I want to taste (or in this case write) the rainbow. There is so much that intrigues me in life, specifically observations about people, society, and matters of the heart. I want to explore all of it through my characters. Currently, I have 13 books under my belt, for a total of three extremely different worlds (contemporary romance, post-apoc adventure, and alternative history). I'm enthralled with history, and as I work on completing my current series (Savage North Chronicles and Forgotten Lands), I've already starting plotting other magical worlds to flesh out next.
What is your writing process?
I have a notebook for each story I work on. Within that notebook is my research, thoughts, sticky notes and brainstorming, my outline of the plot and structure, sketches and diagrams, images, etc. Sticky notes are my best friend. I start a new story by using sticky notes to get the basic chapters in place and then I write out each chapter in bullets before I flesh it out even further. Eventually, I jump in and start writing, but only after multiple rounds of editing the first draft do I send the manuscript to advanced readers for feedback. More editing ensues, and then I send the manuscript out for early reader reviews then it's time to publish. It’s quite the process but all of it essential.
How and when did you start writing?
I’ve been writing since I was really young, but I completed my first manuscript in high school. In fact, Whatever It Takes is a version of that manuscript. Writing has always been a way to live someone else's life and meet people I might otherwise never get to know. I always wanted to be a writer and now I can’t believe I’m actually doing it! It’s the first “job” I’ve ever had that’s made me excited and nervous and happy and proud all at once.
What advice do you have for aspiring authors?
Don't be afraid of failure. It's just a word and it isn't who you are. If you want to write, do it. Create whatever feels right and don’t second guess yourself. You want what you put out into the world to be reflective of YOU. Also, it’s easy to get lost in feedback—other authors, friends, and reader reviews included. Everything is a learning experience, so weigh the negative with all the positive feedback and then decide what's someone's differing opinion and what is constructive feedback to use the next go-around. You can also join my aspiring author Facebook group, The Collective, HERE.
What's it like co-authoring a series, like The Ending?
Co-authoring is such a roller coaster. It's wonderful to have someone to brainstorm with and geek-out with, someone who is equally committed to the project as you are. Being an author can be a somewhat lonely job, so it's wonderful to be able to celebrate successes with someone who understands the effort and vulnerability that comes with being a writer. It was the right decision to co-author in the beginning because partnership provided us both the support and accountability we needed for each of us to be able to take our first step toward our dreams. However, there are also complications in a writing partnership, such as mismatching schedules, different writing paces, and distance between partners. It's something that can make writing very difficult and frustrating. Overall, it's an experience I would never take back. You can read more posts about our Ending Series writing process and co-authoring.
How can I write in The Ending Series world?
We have opened the world up for other authors to write in, but it's a very selective process. If you have more questions about writing in the world of The Ending, you can read more information HERE.
How can I become an advanced reader and receive your books early?
Shoot me an email HERE with a link to a review you've written for one of my books! You'll be added to a special mailing list and receive early copies of my books, special giveaways and promotions, and new project announcements before anyone else! You can also enter my VIP Facebook Group!
How can I make sure I know about your new releases?
If you'd like to keep in touch or follow my new releases, there are two surefire ways to do so: you can sign up for my new release email alert HERE and/or you can follow me on Amazon and BookBub, which wills end out an alert each time I publish.
Do you use affiliate links, and what are they?
Yes, I am enrolled in the Amazon Affiliate program, and I do use affiliate codes in my book purchasing links. By doing this, I receive a small percentage of kickback for any of my books purchased from said links. It's just another way an indie author like me can make a few extra cents on my book sales.