What is your favorite writing and reading genre?
I really connect with authors who share/write from personal reflection and authenticity. It really can be about a variety of topics, I just love connecting with stories and learning about the lives of others who are both different and similar to me. Because of this, I value writing from this stance of honest sharing and (hopefully) encouraging others to embrace their own unique story.
Where and how did you get your idea for your books?
My first (and only) book I've self-published I offer for free on my blog. It's a raw piece about the tension many of us with chronic illness live with - holding dreams in one hand and a battle with constant illness in the other. I wrote it to connect with others facing similar struggles and made it a priority to give it away to others who might benefit from hearing an honest perspective.
If a movie or TV show would be created for your books, which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead roles for your books?
That's a tough one! Since the book is mainly my own personal thoughts and struggles I would want someone who could step into that raw place of living with physical suffering, and all the emotions that come with that. I could see any of my faves doing that well: Sandra Bullock, Anne Hathaway, and Blake Lively come to mind. :)
When did you decide to become a writer?
I have loved writing since I was in elementary school and I never lost that love. I just never knew where to start, really. Given an assignment I would do great, but figuring out how to find my own voice? I didn't know where to start. I began the blog several years ago as a place to process what I was learning and exploring. I started before the worst of my sickness hit and when I became disabled the blog took a different direction. I then used it as a place to process this new limited life of navigating chronic illness. The last year or so I've seen the inner writer begin to grow and dream with greater direction and passion. I don't consider myself a confident person by nature, but embracing this new avenue of writing has been a beautiful experience. It's one of few things I will admit I am actually good at, knowing how hard I work to create each piece. I'm thankful for that growth!
How did you get your book published? How long did it take for you to get it published?
As I mentioned earlier, I chose to self-publish this particular book. Once I had my idea finalized (the process before that was several months...decisions have never been my strong point!) the process took me about 3-4 weeks. That time was spent writing the content, creating the book cover and pdf version, and then getting the word out.
Do you ever get writer's Block? If so, which book did you get the worst while writing?
I definitely get writer's block! Since I've only written the one book, I'll use my blog for the example. I get writer's block every single month for that. To help with it, I keep a running list of topic ideas that I can access from my phone for whenever inspiration for new topics strike. The, if I'm struggling to feel inspired on a new post to write, I revisit that list and find a topic that jumps out at me. If there isn't one, I wait a day or two and try again. It's never worth forcing it - I don't write me best in that mindset!
What is the average time for you to write a book?
I could envision future books taking me longer than the 3-4 weeks my first book took. That particular book is short and was relatively easy to write in between my regular blog posts since I really threw myself into the creation of it. I also self-published and while that takes time, I also was in charge of the timeline, editing, etc. So I could finish at my own pace. I'll have to let you know what my average becomes after writing longer ones!
For your own reading, do you prefer kindle or paperback books? I have a love for both, honestly!
I love the portability of kindle books and how affordable it is to purchase short eBooks! Paperback have a special place in my heart because I grew up reading them. They hold so many memories for me of staying up until the wee hours of the morning to finish those last few chapters. It can also be easier on my eyes that have been affected by my illness.
How are the covers made for your books?
I made my covers using Canva! I watched several videos and applied their tips and tricks to create my cover and I really like how it came out. It fits the heart of the title and message of the book so well. 10. What advice would you give writer wannabes and future/young authors? I think you have to be willing to embrace the truth that you have something important to share. Whether it's your unique writing style, story line ideas, personal experience - YOU have something to say. It doesn't have to be perfect, you don't have to wait for someone to discover you, you can start with your very own self published book! Start a blog and begin writing for practice while you work on it. You'll build an audience who love you and your style and will likely be willing to support you when publishing time comes!
What do you do during your free time, how do you relax?
I spend a lot of my time/days at home due to my illness. So I am often found resting with Netflix, listening to a podcast, or writing to relax. I also love cuddling with my pup and watching tv with my husband at night to unwind from the day...it's really the little things for this girl!
