TB: What books have most influenced you as a writer?
Fiction-wise, I learn the most from reading poorly written books. The mistakes
jump right out at me and remind me of what I need to improve. Shelley
Kassian’s writing evokes such powerful images that I try to emulate her way with
description. I’ve read countless books on the craft of writing and each one offers
a tidbit that I try to incorporate into my own work. As for favorite authors, that
changes by the week. Right now, I’m loving Lexi Lawton, and I’m buried deep in
cozy mysteries.
TB: What do you find to be the most challenging part of writing? And the
most rewarding?
The challenging part for me is writing when I’d rather be doing something like
else. Those little grandbabies are irresistible. And I’m a deadline girl, if I don’t
have a firm deadline imposed by someone else, like my agent, I’m lost. I can
procrastinate for weeks.
The best part about writing is the creativity. Okay, the lies. I pride myself on
being an honest person and writing gives me an outlet for the creative things my
mind invents without having to actually say them. After all, books are just stories
created from the imagination, and that’s exactly what a lie is. The difference?
I’m not using my stories to hide behind or conceal facts, I’m using them to
entertain people and knowing people are entertained, and occasionally
educated, by my books makes me happy.
TB: What book is on your nightstand?
How do I name just one? (Laughs) I’ve got everything romances, science fiction,
writing manuals, books on magic and geology. And let’s not forget the 1600
books on my Kindle. I’m somewhat of a book hoarder.