Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Jenny S. Morris

I'm excited to have Jenny here with me today. She has such a fun blog and I love reading her posts. Click here to check it out! :)

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

I didn’t write growing up, I played pretend. Which meant I didn’t realize I liked writing until I was an adult. I was going through a period in my life when I didn’t read that much (babies will do that to you) and a friend suggested I read the Twilight series. She said her daughters loved them, so I took her up on it. A week and half later I had the whole series read. When I was done I kept asking myself- why do I like these books? Then, it came to me-THE CHARACTERS! And through that I realized I wanted to create people, too. So, I sat down and created the characters in my first novel. That was 3 years ago.

Oh, that dang Twilight. Just kidding. I love those books. :)

Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you get a spare moment?

Don’t I wish I had a writing schedule? I usually write on my lunch breaks at work, after the kids go to bed, and sometimes I shut myself in my room with a notebook and pen on the weekends.

I love writing with a notebook and pen. It's kind of calming I think. I've gotten some of my best ideas and written some of my best scenes that way.

Could you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents?

Hmm…my mom thought I was a boy until she had a dream and they lifted up my shirt and I was definitely not a boy. She was disappointed because she almost had the Brady bunch. I give concerts in my car every morning and afternoon. (I’m actually not a bad singer; I was in choir during high school and college.) I would die if I did not have spell check, and I’m secretly a southern girl that lives in a Pacific North westerner’s body.

LOL I'd like to hear one of those concerts! Maybe we could do a duet! ;)

If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you couldn't live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.)

Sunscreen. I am white as a ghost and I would burn really bad. (I know boring, but who wants to be uncomfortable on an island?

Ditto.

What is one book you could read over and over and over?

This one is tough for me. I live for figuring out the end. I turn pages and sometimes find myself skipping parts to get there faster. (I know, I know the writer put their blood, sweat and tears into every word.) So, I don’t usually re-read books that often. But, I would have to say Chronicles of Narnia and To Kill a Mockingbird.

I love To Kill a Mockingbird. That's actually one classic that I like! :)

What book are you dying to read this year?

I assumed you meant books...The Day Before by Lisa Schroeder, Prized by Caragh M. O’Brien, The Next Door Boys by Jolene B. Perry, (if you haven’t seen her shiny new cover, you should check her website out. It’s beautiful.) and Crossed by Ally Condie.

I'm SO excited for Prized! And Crossed! And The Next Door Boys! Holla Jolene! :D

What genre do you write and why?

I write YA Urban(?) Fantasy, but I also have an idea for an Adult Contemporary and when my boys get a little older I plan on writing a full MG Fantasy with their input. I started with YA because that’s the age of the first characters that popped in my head and I don’t read adult books that much. I write fantasy because even when I’m trying to write something normal, imaginary creatures pop up in the story, I just can’t seem to help it. Oh and I love the “what if” of fantasy.

That's exactly why I write fantasy as well. I love the "what if" factor. And I LOVE imaginary creatures!

Do you have any writing rituals? Music, silence, eating, etc.

I don’t listen to music while I’m writing, unless I’m trying to feel the character’s mood. I usually have a cup of coffee somewhere nearby, and I almost always start with pen and paper. It’s my way of outlining a scene. Paper allows me to be messy and just get down the framework. Then, I type it up on the computer and add the details and emotions.

I love that. "Paper allows me to be messy and just get down the framework." So true.

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, etc?

The ideas tend to just pop into my head at random times and they are pictures or conversations. I try to think about what I’m working on before I go to bed, then my brain puzzles over it while I’m sleeping and I wake up with a clearer picture in the morning.

That's awesome. I wish my brain could work things out while I slept. 

Any advice for other aspiring authors?

Surround yourself with great people. Writers, friends, and family will all help you through the hard times and be able to rejoice with you when the good times happen. I have been blown away by the writing community and how helpful everyone is. It’s like we’re all on a team. I don’t know many professional communities like that. Get a Critique Partner if you don’t have one, and try to listen to what they have to say. Try not to compare yourself. (I’m still working on this one.)

It's so hard not to compare ourselves to others. I'm working on that one as well. :)

Random Writing Question: What character out of any book would you love to meet. And why? :)

OK, I am going to cheat, I mean REALLY cheat. I’m going to throw a dinner party and invite a few friends. Aslan sits at the head of the table, then surrounding him are Lucy Pevensie, Anne of Green Gables, and Nancy Drew. Here’s why-Aslan is a character I fell in love with-his warmth and love reach through the pages (and screen) and envelope me every time. Lucy because I love her almost as much as Aslan, and I think Queen Lucy would love to teach me how to fight with a sword. Anne because I think her chatter would liven up the party, and Nancy Drew because she’s been my friend since childhood and I don’t think this party would be complete without her, and she might invite the Hardy Boys.

That would be one rockin' party! :) Thank you so much, Jenny!

Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Stacy Henrie

Today I'm happy to have Stacy with me! She has an awesome blog and leaves the nicest comments ever. To check out her blog and give her a follow, click here. ;)

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

I started writing poetry and the beginnings of stories as a kid. I even made the goal at age 11 or 12 to publish a novel one day. But I don’t think it was until I wrote my first book that I realized I could do this – I could be a writer.

That is awesome that you wrote poetry, even as a child. I can't write it at all! :)

Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you get a spare moment?

When my two oldest were younger and napping, I’d write during nap time. One summer, in order to finish a book, I got up an hour earlier and wrote then. Now I tend to write more sporadically. With school in session again, I’m looking forward to getting more scheduled writing time during my daughter’s nap.

Oh, how I love nap time!

Could you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents?

I love digital scrapbooking, interior decorating, and reading (obviously). I don’t really consider something a true dessert unless it contains chocolate. I did ballroom dancing and acting in high school and college. My husband and I actually met in a high school drama class. We did the balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet at a Shakespeare Competition. But with no kiss, mind you. He was willing, but I was shy.

I think that is the cutest "how I met my hubby" story I've ever heard! *sigh*

If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you couldn't live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.)

It would be a three-way-tie between a good book, a camera, and chocolate!

LOL! :D

What is one book you could read over and over and over?

I would have to say Robin McKinley’s Beauty.

That's a great one!

What book are you dying to read this year?

I want to read Ally Condie’s Crossed, and of course, being that I write inspirational historicals, there are a bunch on the list to read.

I'm so excited for Crossed as well. I loved Matched. :)

What genre do you write and why?

I write inspirational historical romances (say that five times fast) because that’s what I’ve always loved to read. History fascinates me and I’m a sucker for a happy ending and a good, clean love story.

I love history as well. Though, I don't think I could research that much. And I LOVE happy endings. Pretty sure everyone knows that by now. ;)

Do you have any writing rituals? Music, silence, eating, etc.

I’m kind of boring when I write – no music, no snacks. I’ve tried the music thing in the past and it’s worked, but I think it depends on the project. Right now, it’s silence.

I agree. It depends on the project for me as well.

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, etc?

I’ve had ideas come from dreams or on road trips. Mostly they come by asking questions like “What if this happened . . .” or “What type of person would do this. . .”

I'd love to go on a road trip. That would be the perfect time to daydream. Unless I was driving of course ... That would be an accident waiting to happen!

Any advice for other aspiring authors?

Avoid comparisons. There will always be someone who writes faster, who has more books, got his/her agent quicker, got a better contract, etc. Everyone has their own journey to publication, their own way of approaching writing, and that’s okay. Be true to who you are and don’t worry so much about how everybody else does things.

I totally agree. I still have a hard time with comparisons. It's hard not to, but you'll drive yourself crazy if it's all you think about.

Random Writing Question: If you could travel back in time, what time period would you go to and why? :)

Right now I’d say Iowa during WWI – random, I know. But that’s where my WIP takes place and I’d love to get some firsthand research in.

Cool! That era is fascinating! Your book sounds awesome!  Thank you so much, Stacy! :)

Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Abby Fowers

Oh, Abby. Where do I begin? You are so full of awesome! :D  I was so excited when I found out she was writing books. We grew up pretty close to each other and it has been SO much fun hanging out with her and reading her work! :D  Anyway, check out her blog and give her a follow. She is so awesome!

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

Oh goodness... I guess I showed signs of it ever since elementary school. I loved writing stories for school and always did well on them. The desire and love for reading and writing just grew from there until one day I just couldn't deny it any more. I had to go for it. It was probably during high school or shortly after when I REALLY KNEW that I wanted to do it though.

I love it how so many writers knew they loved to write way back in elementary school. I can honestly say I wasn't one of them. I wish I had been! :)

Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you get a spare moment?

I am working on a writing schedule. It mostly comes around nap time and bed time. I get more accomplished when my kids are asleep. However, my writing time will be cut in half once school starts because I have to fit homework into the schedule too. Ugh. I wonder if it will be worth it. Hopefully I can manage time for both.

I can't believe you do all you do. You are freaking super-woman!

Could you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents?

Oh gosh, you should probably ask someone else this question. LOL. Um, I definitely have the gift of gab. I have been given the Gabby Abby award by more than one teacher. Luckily they still liked me through all my talking. I have tried to crochet but can't manage to do anything more than a washcloth. I really love photography. I even went into business with it for a while but then decided that it took all of the fun out of it. So now I keep it all hobby and all fun.

LOL! Gabby Abby. It fits you! ;)

If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you couldn't live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.)

Chocolate. Seriously, if I don't have chocolate on a regular basis then bad things start to happen. If life ever gets really ugly, my husband gets a scary phone call warning him that he better bring home Haagen Dazs chocolate peanut butter ice cream. I never really choose just PLAIN chocolate. (Where's the fun in that?) I love chocolate with peanut butter and chocolate with nuts. YUM! And if I didn't have it to help me through my loneliness on the island, I'd have to see how long I lasted in the ocean. :) Also, one of my favorite sayings is... "There is nothing wrong with me that a little chocolate can't fix."

Chocolate ice cream with nuts is the best. I'm also a huge fan of chocolate brownie. Drool ...

What is one book you could read over and over and over?

Just one? Hmmm, right now lets just say the HUNGER GAMES. I don't think that book (or that series) will ever get old. Brilliant!

I'm in love with those books too.

What book are you dying to read this year?

I am really dying to read about anything that is NOT on my English reading list this semester. However, I am excited to read NEXT DOOR BOYS by Jolene Perry, INHERITANCE by Christopher Paolini, THE HELP by Kathryn Stockett, and a new book I just won by Donna Hatch, called QUEEN IN EXILE. (I know that's more than one, but is there ever really just one?)

Shout out to Jolene! I LOVE HER!! :D And her book does look awesome. How long have we waited for Inheritance to come out? Hasn't it been like years? Grrr.... I am excited to read it though. :)

What genre do you write and why?

The cursed question! I like too many things! Okay, I write children's books, but when it comes to MG or YA I LOVE fantasy and dystopian. That's just how my brain works, but there is always something else lurking in the shadows waiting to make it's way into my laptop!

I so wish I could write middle-grade. I can't nail that voice though. :P

Do you have any writing rituals? Music, silence, eating, etc.

Silence is best for me right now, but music also inspires me. I am going to experiment with some film scores and see if it's for better or worse.

I love film scores. Try Inception's. I LOVE it.

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, etc?

Mostly just from life in general and day dreaming! I am a huge day dreamer. I also get a lot of ideas from songs or just from being with my kids, listening and paying attention to other kids and what is going on in their lives and what moves them. However, a lot of my day dreaming happens while driving. Just ask my husband. All of a sudden I will pop out with some out of the blue question like, "What's a short sword called? Not a dagger... that's a knife. I want it to be a sword, but a short one." The look on his face is priceless.

Ha ha ha!! It's so fun to surprise the hubby with a random question or fact. Hilarious.

Any advice for other aspiring authors?

Don't give up. Breaking into the writing business isn't easy. And I think with the economy agents and publishers are being extremely picky. So don't give up. Just be open and learn from your mistakes and continue to practice and make your writing better. ALSO, don't give in to peer pressure. Write the novel that YOU want to write and that you will be proud of, because at the end of the day, that's all that really matters. (This doesn't mean you can't still learn from your critique group and use their advice. They are SO important!)

Great advice. :)

Random Writing Question: If you could meet any character in a book, who would it be and why?

I was going to say Dumbledore because he's brilliant, but I'm going to have to go with Mr. Darcy from Pride & Prejudice, but ONLY if he'll choose me over Elizabeth Bennett. Mr. Darcy is SEXY and as of this evening I am taking SEXY Darcy over brilliant Dumbledore. Sad but true. :)

Thanks so much Chantele! This has been fun!
LOVE your answer! Mr. Darcy is totally hot. I'd take him over Dumbledore as well! ;) And thank you so much for letting me interview you! :)

Also, I've been interviewed over at Kristin Lynn Thetford's blog. Click here to check it out. :)

Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Kadie Kinney

Today I'm excited to introduce, Kadie! She's so awesome. Her blog is so fun too. She writes about three different loves in her life. Interior Design, Gaming and of course, Writing! Head over and check it out. She has some amazing posts on how she decorates things. Everything she has done is SO gorgeous! Anyway, on to the interview! :)

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

I think I’ve known on some level ever since I learned HOW to write that I wanted to contribute to the field someday. I used to write short stories all the time, and I started so many “novels” that ended up being five pages before my hand cramped up and I called it quits (pre-computer days…yes, I’m old enough to remember pre-computer days). But as for how long I’ve actually thought it was an attainable dream, I’d say it started three years ago when I began my first MS. It was something I started for fun, and it slowly turned into a passion. And now I don’t feel right if I don’t have something being worked on, whether it’s writing, editing, or revising.

Ha! Five pages before you hand cramped up. That's so funny! :) Now you can bust out 50 pages before your hand cramps up! ;)

Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you get a spare moment?

I don’t have a strict schedule, no. I usually write after my little girl goes to bed at 7, so that’s worked well for me. But whenever I write, I have to be in the zone. I can’t force myself to do it if I’m distracted by other things (like designing my daughter’s big girl room, which I am currently working on. It’s all –consuming right now). However, I do try to carry a notebook with me wherever I go in case I have an idea or am struck with inspiration. That way I don’t lose those precious thoughts.

Oh how I love your designing talents... And notebooks are the best. I have so many lying around the house my hubby gets so annoyed! lol

Could you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents?

You know those TV’s that hang down sporadically throughout Wal-Mart , cycling through their latest ad or whatever? I’m always afraid they’re going to fall on my head when I walk under them. I avoid them at all costs.

How’s that for random? Lol.

LOL! Laughing so hard right now!

As for hidden talents, I can touch my tongue to my nose. It’s in my genes. Oh and I can pop every finger twice (except my thumbs) and do so chronically. It’s an addiction really. I should probably stop. The odds of getting arthritis are against me enough as someone who’s typing constantly. Oh well. Oh there I go, popping one again. Shoot!

He he. I like popping my toes. Is that weird? Probably.

If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you couldn't live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.)

One thing? ONE thing? Can it be an inclusive category, like “toiletries”? I seriously don’t know what I’d do without my toothbrush and Chapstick. Seriously. Thanks though, for including the laptop. That’s vital.

Seriously. What would we do without a computer?  Hopefully I'll never get stranded on an island. Oh wait. I don't ever go anywhere! lol

What is one book you could read over and over and over?

Okay, okay, I’m going to have to say it; the Twilight books. I KNOW!!! How generic am I? But here’s why: I met my husband when I was 16. We started dating so young and I remember feeling SO many of the same things that Bella felt in those books; from the breathless rapture in the first book, to the fear of abandonment and loss in the second and third books, and eventually the total trust and oneness in the fourth book.

Oh am I cheesy or what?

But honestly, they’re an easy read (I can get through one in a day if I don’t have much going on) they’re entertaining, and they bring me back to when I first met MY Jacob. (I have a theory that he might really be a Werewolf too for example; he’s one-quarter Cherokee Indian, he’s always like 110 degrees, and his name’s Jacob. Hello??)

Other than that, I HAVE read Jane Eyre and Pride and Prejudice COUNTLESS times and could do so again and again.

I love the Twilight books too. Probably always will.

What book are you dying to read this year?

Blackveil by Kristen Britain. I LOVE the Green Rider series and am dying to get my hands on that one. I know it’s been out for awhile, but I’m waiting for paperback. Not because I’m a cheapskate, but because all the other ones I own are paperback and I can’t have the first three soft cover and the last one this huge hardcover. How would that look on my bookcase? *Shudders*

So I might be somewhat of a crazy perfectionist. Sue me.

Yay! Someone like me! I'm a hardcover freak though. I won't buy paperback. Is that so wrong? I have a problem. I can't help it. The hardcovers are so shiny and pretty. I heart them. Nothing's wrong with paperbacks though. I just have my preference. And there is no way I'd buy a hardcover if the rest of the series was in paperback. We can be crazy perfectionists together. ;)

What genre do you write and why?

Well I’m not sure yet. I have one MS that’s Adult Fantasy, and one that’s YA Contemporary. I enjoyed them both. I have another idea for a YA Fantasy, so I guess fantasy is probably what I’m drawn too the most. I love YA though, because it’s such a self-centered, emotion-driven time of most people’s lives. Think back to when you were a teenager; EVERYTHING was newsworthy, or exciting, or dramatic. In no other period of life could one stray sentence in the hallway cause hysteria by lunchtime like it would in a building full of teenagers.

LOVE this! Especially the last sentence! Awesome.

Do you have any writing rituals? Music, silence, eating, etc.

Music, but the type differs. For my first book it was the Avatar soundtrack Pandora station. I got epic musical scores from Pirates of the Caribbean, Harry Potter, etc. which was great; as long as the songs didn’t have words, I was fine. But for my most recent MS, it was the Adele and Band of Horses Pandora stations, words didn’t bother me, but they had to be melodic and meaningful.

Music is the best. And I love Pirates music. And Jack Sparrow, but that could be a whole other post.

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, etc?

I always have what I call “Movie Dreams” which are the type of dreams that last ALL night long and they’re epic and full of adventure. So I get a lot of ideas from those. My first MS was a combination of a dream I had, with an idea my husband had for a video game. It was nice though, because right when I woke up, I knew the characters; their names, what they looked like, EVERYTHING. They were never a question in my mind. That made it really easy to dive in and start world-building.

I really wish I could remember my dreams. I forget a few minutes after I wake up. Every. Time. Drives me crazy.

Any advice for other aspiring authors?

I’ll get back to you on that, when I don’t feel so lost myself. Seriously though, my advice is to just keep writing. I thought I’d write my first MS and never have another idea for a book again. Ever. But then one came, so I wrote it down as quickly as I could. And now I have another idea, that’s outlined and just waiting for me to get started. And none of them have anything to do with the other, which is great fun for me. That would be the other part of my advice; have fun. I’m not published or even agented yet, so I’m enjoying this time where I can write for myself and on my own timeline.

Great advice. Have fun and write for yourself.


Random Writing Question: If you could send your current MC into any other book or story, what would it be and why?

I would send my MC, Sistine, into Pride and Prejudice. She’s so sassy, independent, and outspoken I think it would absolutely KILL her to witness the reserve and propriety that these women based their lives on. And I think it’d be really funny to hear a conversation between her and Lizzy, who was outspoken for her time, but still tame, compared to Sistine the spitfire.

Ha! Your MC sounds awesome! Thank you so much for doing this Kadie. It was so fun to learn more about you. :)

Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Madeline Bartos

I was so excited to interview this particular author. She is so sweet, hilarious, has an amazing blog and she's a teenager! How freaking cool is that? So, let's get on to the interview! :D

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

Being the intelligent being that I am, I knew straight from the moment I was conceived. Alright. . . That’s totally a lie. I started out by writing poetry. Then Brooke (brookerbusse.blogspot.com) my poet/novelist/short story hybrid friend inspired and pushed me to write my first novel during NaNoWriMo. Then I got into blogging at the beginning of the year, and I realized being a writer was epic - and epic was what I wanted to be.

 It really is epic. And you're an awesome blogger. Just sayin'. ;)

Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you get a spare moment?

Right now it’s summer, which translates to “the season where I have no responsibilities.” So right now I shun schedules. During the school year, I write as soon as I get home until I complete my set goal for the day. Writing usually comes before homework. (How many moms did I just shock?) I'm sure when the new school year rolls around I'll be much more organized as a writer. I never was organized before, but I recently tried it, and now I'm a bit compulsive.

It's nice being organized. I wish I were better...

Can you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents.

I’m Madeline, almost Prudence. (My dad is a Beatles fan. My mom. . . Not so much.) I’m fourteen and love science, dance, golf, music, piano, writing, reading, blogging, and watching hockey. (Go Penguins!) I probably sound like a really disoriented person. Don’t worry - I am. I work as a soccer referee during spring and fall. In the summer, I unload vegetables from the back of shirtless boy’s trucks. (How lucky am I?) I’m extremely flexible and can put both feet behind my head. I’m destined to be a cat lady and wished that I lived in Quebec.

I heart soccer. How fun would that be to be a referee? :D And you ARE lucky working with shirtless boys! LOL

If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you couldn’t live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.)

Bear Grylls. I’ll soak up the sun, and he can build the fire, get me some shelter, and find some coconuts.

Hopefully you don't have to drink any bodily fluids... Love that show, but it grosses me right out!

What is one book you could read over and over and over?

The Harry potter series. . . oh wait. . . "one book". Well, we'll just pretend the question said "What are some books you could read over and over and over." All seven books are lined up on my desk. My brother has recently become sort of an HP addict, I'm so proud! I love the world JK created - so inspiring!

Great choice! :D

What book are you dying to read this year?

This year I’m excited to read Darkspell, Wither, and The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer. If I’m allowed to get ahead of myself, I’m excited for the 2012 releases of Slide, Incarnate, and Under the Never Sky.

Those all sound so amazing. I've never heard of Incarnate. Looking it up now ...

What genre do you write and why?

I guess the closest genre I can tie my writing to is dystopian. It’s just that it’s not the setting or tradition of most dystopians. I like writing with corrupt settings as sort of a message as in “do you know this could be what happens?” or “do you know this terrible stuff is happening - and you don’t know about it?”

Awesome! :)

Do you have any writing rituals? Music, silence, eating, ect.

I go through phases where I have to have a certain font in a strange (usually blinding) color. During first drafts, I have to write with loud music and my eyes closed. When focus is required, I need the music off. . . And my eyes open. Oh, and I recently became superstitious of the super brain powers pickles give.

I've never heard of anyone writing with their eyes closed. How on earth can you do that? I'll have to try it now. :)

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, ect?

I’ve gotten all of my ideas in my bedroom, which is where my writing space is located. I recently moved my writing cove to an actual desk, so hopefully that doesn’t stop the creativity. I love reading the news, so many ideas come from there and the 1,265 songs my dad and I are hoarding away on my hard drive. I got an idea while riding in the car once and it was a completely different form of idea. A different setting, a different idea. Curious, huh?

The news is a great place to get ideas. I've gotten quite a few from there.

Any advice for other aspiring authors?

Push yourself. You need to be ambitious, and you need to be determined. Go big or go home. When you set a big goal and realize that it can’t be done, don’t give up on it, just modify it. Whatever you do, don’t give up on any goal you set. You may fail, but failure doesn't mean you just abandon the idea completely. You modify it. It's extremely helpful if you can have someone to punish you when you don't meet your goals. I heard of a guy fresh from college who paid $50 to his friend every time his goal wasn't met. He now has six published books.

Ha! I'd be broke if I paid someone when I didn't make a goal! LOL :) Great advice, Madeline.

Random Writing Question:Your MC has the power to change into any supernatural creature he/she wants. What would they choose and why?

A banshee. When someone is about to be killed, wailing would sure stop the hunters dead in their tracks and scare them out of their pants. She'd enjoy it, for sure.

Banshee's are awesome. I agree. :D

Thank you SO much, Madeline!! :D

Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Jolene Perry

Okay you guys. I know most of you know this amazing hilarious writer, but I had to interview her anyway. She just landed an agent and her books are so awesome. If you haven't been to her blog, get over there and give her a follow! You won't be sorry. :) And I can say that I met her at a writers conference this past May! Just as hilarious and so sweet in person!

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

I wanted to write when i was little (like elementary). I entered contests and finished LOADS of journals. When I was about 25 or so, I started to write, but quickly realized that when I started it would sort of take over my life, so I stopped. About two years ago I had a random conversation with my husband where he mentioned my imagination and that I really should write some of it down for fun. A few months later, I had my first novel. I remember being sort of in shock.

That's awesome! Having a supportive husband is the best. Seriously. :)

Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you get a spare moment?

Mike thinks my writing schedule is anytime I'm awake, lol. NO schedule. I write in any and almost all spare moments. When I'm NOT writing, I'm listening to the playlist of whatever project I'm working on. This means that when people talk to me, I'm really only half-present in the conversation, lol.

Sounds a lot like me! lol I'm always half-listening. Well, mostly just to my hubby! Ha ha! ;)

Could you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents?

I flipped a raft twice in the Rogue River and honestly thought I might drown.
I drew the plans and built two houses (my dad's in construction, so I grew up around it - and yes, I was out there with hammer and nails, building a house)
When my husband was deployed in the Army I taught myself to play the guitar (I'm not great).
I taught middle school math with my degree in political science and French
When I was in high school I rode horses, and even had the chance to take a few clinics from riders who rode in the Olympics.

Ugh. Math is the worst subject EVER! lol Not really. I just suck at it. ;)

If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you couldn't live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.)

Music and books. So, that's two things. But I'm always breaking rules like that ;D Oh, and some really good dark chocolate. I really hope I'm never put in that situation because I clearly will not be able to decide.

I hope no one's ever in that situation! lol

What is one book you could read over and over and over?

I'm going to sound so... boring. But Pride and Prejudice. Love the language. Love the setting. Want to smack Elizabeth and shake Darcy, but you know...

Agreed.

What book are you dying to read this year?

Catching Jordan by Kenneally - I'm a sucker for contemporary, and this looks fab.

I'll have to add this to my monstrous list!

What genre do you write and why?

My first was a women's fic. Then i wrote a few LDS fic, the first comes out in October!! Now I write YA, almost all contemporary, but I am in the process of reviving my paranormal.

Awesome. And by the way, Jolene is a GREAT writer. Seriously.

Do you have any writing rituals? Music, silence, eating, etc.

All of the above. It depends, sometimes I'll listen to the same song over and over while working on a scene, but only when Mike's not home. I HAVE to read a little over something I've written in that WIP before I can just jump in - it's helpful for self-editing and getting me in the groove of the character. The best is having a huge cold bottle of Pellegrino and some dark chocolate almonds.

Mmmm... Almonds.... I thought I was the only one who listened to the same song over and over. Great minds think alike, eh?

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, etc?

They start with something real. Some of them have started with something personal, but as soon as I start writing they take on a life of their own. 

I think the best stories tend to start with something real and personal.

Any advice for other aspiring authors?

WRITING SHOULD BE FUN.
Editing isn't always fun, but the whole process of writing a book and finding a publisher/agent should be FUN (even the disheartening stuff - like rejection after rejection).
You're not starving in a third world country, you're writing. Pretty awesome.
Never feel bad about doing things the way you want to do them.
And find critique partners that you TRUST and ADORE.

Great advice. :)

Random Writing Question: If your MC could pick a best friend from any published novel, who would it be and why?

I will answer this from Leigh who's the MC in my book coming out this fall (The Next Door Boys) because she's NOT a romantic. I think she wouldn't choose Anne from Anne of Green Gables, because she professes to hate that story, but her and Anne would be great friends because they're equally stubborn. And it takes both of them WAY to long to recognize love. Or maybe they'd hate each other for that same reason...

Ha! Love it! Thanks Jolene!! :D

Thanks Chantele! Your blog rocks, your writing rocks, and you're just pretty freaking awesome :D

Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Ruth Josse

I've been blogging buddies with Ruth for a few months now. She is SO nice! Her blog posts are so fun and I love seeing what she's up to. Check her blog out, here. And best of all? She's a mommy who writes! Let's get on to the interview! :)

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

I've always loved reading, but it was a long time before it occured to me that I could write stories for others to read. For a semester I worked for my high school newspaper. My big story was on the origins of Valentine's Day and I had no idea what I was doing. That was my first inclination that non-fiction is not my thing. Then I had an awesome English teacher who asked us to write a story. She enjoyed what I wrote and I enjoyed writing it. That was probably the first spark. Years later (like marriage and three kids later) I began to dabble in writing. I secretly began a couple pitiful books that thank goodness never made it to The End. But I found that I loved this writing thing. Then a friend of mine asked me if I wrote, since my mom did, and I shocked myself by confessing my deep dark secret. She invited me to join her writers group and that is where my journey took off.

Your mom writes too? How awesome! And nonfiction is so not for me. I'd accidentally throw a couple fairies or elves in there and it wouldn't be pretty. :)

Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you get a spare moment?

How I wish my life was stable enough to have a schedule! With my husband's ever changing work schedule and four kids running around, I'm lucky to find a spare moment. They tend to be found during my baby's nap time or after my kids go to bed. Although writing at night is not my favorite. My brain goes to bed before I do.

My brain goes to bed early as well. Someday I'll have more time to write. *sigh*

Could you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents?

I'm one of eight kids. My dad was a rocket scientist and the smartest person I have ever known. Unfortunately I didn't inherit any of his smart genes. However I did inherit the writing gene from my mom. I'm a SAHM to four awesome kiddos and married to someone who makes me laugh. I've been a piano teacher for almost seven years. I'm not a fan of cooking and only do it so my kids don't starve. I don't mind grilling, though. I have a deep-seated love for Bonanza. (Did you know there are words to the Bonanza song? Yes, I'm a dork.) I live in teeny tiny town and the only things you can do here are go to the post office or go next door and get your teeth worked on at the dentist office. No gas stations. No stores. There are some who wonder how we survive. They forget about the wonderful invention called The Car. I have a quiet voice and can't count the times I've answered the phone only to be asked if my mommy is home.

I hear ya on the cooking thing. Hate it, but have to do it. And I had no idea the Bonanza song had words! lol If a dentist lived next door to me I'd move. *shudders*

If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you couldn't live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.)

I guess food. Because I hate fish and coconuts and aren't those the only things you can eat on a desert island?

I love coconut anything. Almond joys. Drool... :) You are totally missing out.

What is one book you could read over and over and over?

I could read ALL of the Anne of Green Gables books again and again..

Those books are so good. I love the movies too.

What book are you dying to read this year?

There are so many! I spend a lot of time looking for books to read and get overwhelmed by all the great choices. This is torture for an indecisive person. I love recommendations so I don't have to pick. I wish I had more time to read, though.

You heard her, guys! Recommend some books! Ready, GO! :)

What genre do you write and why?

It took me a while to figure this out. My first attempt was an adult romance. Wow. Bad. Then I tried my hand at adult fantasy. Better. But not my thing. Too epic. Next was a MG fantasy. Getting closer. I still have to finish it or my writers group might kick me out. Now I'm writing YA. And loving it. This is where I belong. Also, I have an affection for the awesome race of teens. So it fits.:)

Sounds a lot like my attempts! :) I never tried MG though. I just can't bring myself to write something without a little romance in it. Yes, I'm a dork.

Do you have any writing rituals? Music, silence, eating, etc.

I prefer to listen to music unless I'm stuck and really need to concentrate. Then after I've checked Facebook, blogs galore, my email and the Amazon deal of the day I get down to business and read over the last few pages to get into the story. Also, if I'm writing at night, I like to write in the dark. Why? Who knows.

I like writing in the dark, too. Unless I'm writing a creepy scene. Then I find myself looking over my shoulder, waiting for someone to get me.

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, etc?

Anywhere. From things I see around me. The news. Surfing the internet. Reading. One of my recent short stories came from a little blip of a story I saw on my internet's homepage. Another one came when this girl walked by me at a strawberry farm and for some reason I wanted to write about her. What do you think she would of done if I asked to take her picture? I'm still lamenting that I didn't.

Ha! You totally should have asked. Even though I wouldn't.. ;)

Any advice for aspiring authors?

I don't know if it's my place to give any advice since I'm still trying to figure all this out for myself. But some of the best advice I've been given is to believe in your talent enough to invest in it. Take the time to learn more, practice often and work hard. Also, don't drive yourself crazy by comparing yourself to others.

That last line is so important. I totally agree.

Random Writing Question: Your MC is about to travel through time. Where would he/she go, and why?

There is no way in the world that Lana would ever get into a time machine. She's way too wary of the unknown. Her best friend Aden, on the other hand, would totally do it. And he'd go back and save his mom.

Thank you SO much, Ruth! You are awesome!

Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Kayeleen Hamblin

Today I'd like to introduce you to, Kayeleen! She is so very nice and has some fantastic story ideas that I'm dying to read! You can check out her blog here.

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

My trip down Writers' Road is a little more round-about than some. I wrote a lot (and I do mean a lot) in my grade school years and when I graduated from high school, I majored in English. I thought I would be an English teacher in high school. That lasted for about one year. Life happened. I took a break from college. I forgot about how much I loved writing and books. I came back to college. I majored in Psychology. I decided to be a therapist. I graduated. I got married. I got pregnant. Everything else got put on hold. One night, I couldn't sleep and my husband said, "Try telling yourself a story." I got so caught up in the story, I had to write it down. I finished the first draft in about 6 weeks. Now. I have three kids and several manuscripts in various stages of writing/revising and no signs of ever slowing down.

Six weeks? Awesome time for your first book!

Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you get a spare moment?

I wish I had a schedule! I have a 5 month old baby and she is super clingy. She only naps well when I'm holding her, so most of my writing is done while she's napping in my lap. If I'm really lucky, I can put her down after she's asleep and crank out the words. I try to write after the other kids go to bed and my husband can take little girl, but honestly, I'm not as productive in the evenings.

I hear ya. Three kids makes it hard to write. Not that I would trade them for anything. :)

Could you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents?

Let's see. I used to play this game with my husband when we were dating called "You don't know." The rules were that you had to tell the other person something they didn't know about yourself. I ran out of things to say after a while and haven't ever recovered.

I grew up in a small own in Southern Utah and I still live there. I'm the oldest of 8 kids. We just bought a house a block away from my mom and dad, which is great for the kids. I married a guy I met while I was in high school, but it took him 10 years to convince to be more than friends. (You can ask for a more detailed version of that story, if you want.) I sing fairly well. I play piano fairly poorly. I can use various accents, like Irish. I have visited Canada and Washington, DC and lived in he Kansas City area for almost 2 years. I think I'm hilarious, but only to people who really know me.

LOL I'd love to hear the rest of the story about you and your hubby!

If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you couldn't live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.)

I would have to bring my supply of chocolate. I am a sugar junkie. Or, maybe I would bring desserts in general. Wouldn't want to burn out on chocolate.

Mmmm.... chocolate.... *drools*

What is one book you could read over and over and over?

I have a few of these. I read Pride and Prejudice, The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley, and The Blue Castle by LM Montgomery at least once a year. All three have female leads in different circumstances and a bit of a love story to them.

Sigh. More books to add to my to-read list... :)

What book are you dying to read this year?

I am anxiously waiting for my copy of Elana Johnson's Possession to get to my house. I have a pretty long TBR list and there's a lot of books coming out this year. Supernaturally. Crossed. And more.

SO excited for Supernaturally and Crossed!

What genre do you write and why?

I'm currently writing YA fairytale retellings with a twist. I'm a sucker for the happy endings. I love seeing things work out for the hero and go wrong for the villian. And I love the daydream that writing fairytales feels like.

I love fairytale retellings. Love, love, LOVE them! And I am also a sucker for a happy ending. :)

Do you have any writing rituals? Music, silence, eating, etc.

My writing time is spent largely ignoring things. I ignore Thomas the Tank Engine and Dora the Explorer. I ignore housework. I ignore the baby in my lap. I usually have my laptop propped up next to me and a portable keyboard that can be repositioned, depending on the stage of awakeness of the baby. I haven't ever had a playlist or anything like that. It seems counterproductive when I could be singing "I'm the map" with my boys.

I'm the map, I'm the map, I'm the map, I'm the map! *shudders* Yes, I know it too. :P

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, etc?

Most of my ideas have been things that come just as I'm falling asleep. I don't remember dreams very clearly, but my mind wanders a lot and it takes me a while to fall asleep. A lot of them are "what if" questions I've asked myself. I use time when I'm doing mundane, everyday things like showers and washing dishes to hone the ideas.

I am the WORST when it comes to falling asleep. My brain is always going a million miles an hour, but for some reason I never get story ideas when I'm tired. So, I lay in bed just staring at the ceiling. Or my bookshelf. My hubby hits the pillow and is gone. Grrr... I do get lots of ideas in the shower and while driving though. :)

Any advice for aspiring authors?

My best advice would be to get involved. Writing is such an isolated thing. You sit in your own world and type away. Make friends in the writing community so that you have people to help you and understand what you are doing. You need people who can look over your work and help you improve it. And you need

Don't just get involved with other writers, either. The best writing is drawn from our own experiences and you can't do that if you never experience anything. Take some time to get out and live. Have a real life.

GREAT advice. Live and have a real life. Love it.

Random Writing Question: If your MC could meet any fairy tale creature/person, who would it be and why?

I think this question might be a little bit of a cheat for me, since I write fairy tales. My take on them combines fairy tales in a new way, so this is actually the question I ask myself all the time. "What if Sleeping Beauty met the Beast from Beauty and the Beast?" "What would happen if you combine Cinderella with the Ugly Duckling?" There's probably a dozen stories that combine the different fairy tales. It's pretty awesome.

How fun! Can't wait to read your books! Thank you so much, Kayeleen!

Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Robin Weeks

I was lucky enough to meet Robin at Storymakers this year. She is SO nice and I wish I would have had more time to chat with her. Instead I make sure to check out her blog and listen to the conference calls she hosts every few weeks. Check out her blog here. And now, on to the interview! :)

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

About 5 years ago, which is sort of crazy, considering all the time I’ve spent writing in my life. I’ve always loved writing in school. I started a (very bad) book when I was very young, and I minored in English with an emphasis in creative writing. Despite all that, I never considered actually writing fiction for a living. Books are so LONG! How could I ever write that much? Then I lost the creative outlet of my theatre arts major in school, became a lawyer, and BAM! Needed another creative outlet. Law school taught me to write LONG things, I read one too many books that made me think “I can write better than that,” I read a few great books that made me want to emulate them, and here I am.

Holy crap. I had no clue you were a lawyer! That is awesome!


Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you get a spare moment?

With a full-time job, three kids, and a husband, I write whenever I get a spare moment. Which is normally at night (after bedtime) or on weekends. Car rides and “outdoor activities” are great times, too. :)

I hope you're not writing while driving! He he. ;)

Could you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents?

I can sing, but I can’t dance. I’m good at bossing people around as a director, but I wasn’t good enough at acting to make the acting track in college. I find it well nigh impossible to say no to anything related to writing. Worse, I can’t stop actively volunteering for things—but it’s all so fun, I can’t even really regret it, either. In the last 9 months, I’ve become a group leader for Farland’s Writer’s Groups, co-host of Farland’s Authors’ Advisory, and been a panelist/gopher at Life, the Universe, and Everything. I have a Whitney Award winning first cousin (whose name isn’t really Sandra Grey), and my husband’s brother’s wife’s father’s brother’s daughter’s married name rhymes with higher.

Cool! I wish I could volunteer for more things. That's cool that Sandra Grey is your cousin! And the author that rhymes with higher is awesome too! ;)


If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you couldn't live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.)

Can I assume I have the necessities of life and my laptop is connected to the internet? What else could I possibly need? Food? Drinking water? Unlimited ebooks? I’m good.

Ha! Love it!

What is one book you could read over and over and over?
I can read lots of books over and over, but I buy my favorites. Anything by Stephenie Meyer, Brandon Sanderson, Shannon Hale, Dan Wells, Robyn Carr, J.K. Rowling, and a host of others.

I love Stephenie Meyer too. Even if people think it's cool to hate Twilight now. I heart those books and I don't care who knows it! :D And Shannon Hale. I love her. And of course J.K. Rowling. And Dan Wells. I've never read Robyn Carr, but I've heard she's good. I heard of Brandon Sanderson. I think everyone I've interviewed has recommended his books to me! Maybe I should get on that...

What book are you dying to read this year? 

Elana Johnson’s POSSESSION—which is strange, because I’m not really a dystopian fan. Dystopia + snarky heroine, though? That I can get behind.

More than even that, though, I’m holding out hope that an ARC of EVERNEATH by Brodi Ashton finds its way to me before the end of the year….

Have you seen that AMAZING cover for EVERNEATH? Holy Freak! It is BEAUTIFUL! Everyone reading this? Look it up NOW! Pretty sure it's in my top three favorite covers ever.

What genre do you write and why?

YA Urban Fantasy. Because it’s the coolest genre. (Duh.) I love stories about magic in our normal world. I love the What If of that, dreaming how things could be different with a little more magic.

Love Urban Fantasy. Probably why I write it. ;)


Do you have any writing rituals? Music, silence, eating, etc.

I’m a mother and a lifelong obsessive reader, so I’m really good at ignoring just about anything. It’s just background noise to me.

Ha ha ha!! Well said!

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, etc?Wherever, really. Mostly by sitting down and considering what I want to write about. What elements interest me? What character/story do I need to fit those elements? What do I want to say with the story? I have a story on the back burner right now that started as a simple scene that niggled at me until I wrote it down. I’m still just starting the process of deciding the hows and whys of the world, what the MC would want, what would stand in her way, etc. I dream for a few months and, often, the old subconscious will pop up the perfect solution when I least expect it.

I don't think I've ever seen the word "niggled" in a sentence before. ;) I love it so much I looked it up. I know. I'm a huge geek.

Any advice for aspiring authors?

Lots of advice says that, if you can possibly do anything else, do that instead, because writing is hard, and if you’re not obsessed with it, it’s not worth it. While that’s true, it’s also true that you can learn to be obsessed with writing. If that’s your dream, work at it every day, no matter what else you’re good at. Attend writer’s conferences. Join a crit group. Network with all the awesome writers online. **Waves to Chantele** Keep at it until you have at least written a whole book. Then edit that book until it’s as good as you can make it. If you hated the process and can’t imagine going through that again, maybe you should do something else. If you find you can’t stop writing… you’re a writer. Don’t quit, keep learning, and eventually you’ll succeed. (Everybody says so.)

Fantastic advice. I agree with everything you just said. Especially "If you find you can't stop writing ... you're a writer." Love it.

Random Writing Question: Your MC gets to meet a superhero. Who would they choose to meet and why?

Rogue, from X-Men. She can steal anyone’s powers, which means she’s had to adapt and learn a lot of different ways to use them. Brina could use some advice about that. Also, in the cartoon, Rogue can fly. Brina loves to fly, so they could go flying together and compare aerial tricks.

Cool! Your MC can fly? I've always wanted to be able to fly. And be invisible. Sigh. I wish I were a superhero.  Thank you SO much, Robin! :D

Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Katie Dodge

Today I get to introduce my fabulous critique partner and friend, Katie Dodge! She is such an amazing friend, not to mention hilarious! :) Check out her blog and give her a follow! :)

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

I've always thought it would be the coolest job ever and always wrote here and there. But it wasn't until two years ago that I sat down to write a book. And now I'm halfway through my second one!

I'm so glad you did because you are an amazing writer!

Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you get a spare moment?

I wish I had a schedule, but I snag time whenever I can. With three little kiddos that's the way it is. :)

Don't you love the chaos when our six kids get together? ;)

Could you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents?

I have nothing interesting to say. I was tagged the other week where I listed 7 things about myself and really, I think that's all there is. Ha! But for those who didn't see it, I'll repeat a few. I was a nanny in Connecticut and one time hung out with Bill Murray's son, Homer, in NYC. (Or so he says he was. He totally been lying for all I knew.) I was an extra in a few movies, including Halloween IV when I was in first grade. (I was a trick-or-treater in it and I wasn't allowed to watch it for obvious reasons;)
I just asked my kids what talents I have and my 6 yr old said, "Ballet." I shook my head and said, "Nope." Then she says, "Cleaning up?" I have to disagree again. I'll have to explain better what "talent" actually means...

 Ha! Cleaning up is one of my best talents! Unfortunately... :P

If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you couldn't live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.) 

Sunscreen! I'd burn in ten minutes.

Ditto to that.

What is one book you could read over and over and over?

That's a hard one. The Red Tent by Anita Diamant I read a couple times. And A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini. LOVED that book. Sorry, that was two.

I haven't read either. I know, I know. I'll add them to my monstrous list. :)

What book are you dying to read this year?

Way too hard to answer! I have a list a mile long.

Me too! Although, I really really want to read yours!! *hint hint*

What genre do you write and why?

Women's Fiction, but I'm thinking my current one falls in the Historical Crossover genre (is there such a thing?) And I don't know why ;)

Sounds good to me! :)

Do you have any writing rituals?

Music, silence, eating, etc. I like total silence, but that rarely happens in my house. When I read at night, I like the t.v. on, but muted. I don't know why, but I do. And snacks are a must. I'm not picky about what it is either.

Mmmm.... snacks....

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, etc?

A little of everything. Movies get the ideas flowing for sure. I love movies! Music. Dreams. While cleaning or running.

I love movies too. Movie night? I think so!

Any advice for other aspiring authors?

Don't stop learning and honing your skills. And don't give up. If you really want it, don't give up.

:)

Random Writing Question: If your MC had three wishes, what would he/she wish for?

In When the Mockingbird Sings, I have two. I guess I'll go with Mattie. 1-) To be free. 2-)To be able to love whoever she wants. 3-) I can't say anymore of the wishes because I don't want to give anything away. ;)

Love the title. Love. Great answers as well. Thank you so much Katie! Heart You! :D

Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Reece Hanzon

So, Reece is an awesome blogging friend of mine. I'm excited for you guys to "meet" him today! Head on over and check out his blog! You won't be disappointed! :)

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

Well, I've been a writer of some sorts ever since I was a kid (I used
to staple sheets of printer paper together to make "books" and then
write my favorite stories in them, original illustrations and all). I
wrote little scenes and things like that for my own amusement in high
school. I didn't consciously decide I wanted to be a writer until my
junior year of high school—and then I was only thinking of becoming a
writer in the journalism/newspaper sense (I had a vague dream of
someday writing a book, but I didn't really take it that seriously).
Still, once I decided that, my own writing picked up quite a bit and
many of the ideas/scenes that came to me then have either found their
way into my books or morphed into the ideas I have for future books.
It was in 2003 that I actually decided I was going to write a novel,
and I've been writing as often as I can ever since.

So...if I asked to see your little books, would you let me? Ha! That is so cute!

Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you
get a spare moment?

I wish I had a schedule! But, life isn't that generous right now
(mostly because my wife's computer died a little while ago and now we
both share mine). I usually take a couple of hours in the evening
while my wife is reading or something like that. Nothing regular
though.

I'm usually writing or reading while my hubby watches t.v.

He's not really a reader and definitely isn't a writer! lol

Could you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents?

I was born and raised in Colorado, spent two years in Peru, and went
to college (also met my wife and now work) in Utah. I can mimic a
slide whistle. The great paradox of my existence is that I love to
read but can't read very fast (we think I might have some sort of
visual processing disorder, but we can't say for sure). I have brown
hair but my beard (when I let it grow out) is red as carrots. I love
hiking, camping, cycling, skiing, and watching hockey and football. I
am possibly the world's biggest dork/smart mouth (for some reason,
that's just the way my sense of humor operates: reductio ad absurdum),
but only around close friends and family.

Ha! I love that you admit to being a dork! ;)

If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you
couldn't live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.)

FOOD! I know that sounds like a smart@$$ answer, but it's true. My
imagination is generally all I need to entertain myself (hence the
problem with picking which story to write next), but I have a real
weak spot for good food (it's a miracle I'm not 400 lbs.). The lack of
good food (and possibly soda) is what would drive me insane I think.

Ha ha ha! I am laughing so hard right now!

What is one book you could read over and over and over?

Sabriel, by Garth Nix, if I have to pick just one

Yet another book to add to my mountain of books to read. Sigh.

What book are you dying to read this year?

Leviathan, by Scott Westerfield (after I finish the series I'm on right now!)

I really want to read that too! I've heard it's awesome.

What genre do you write and why?

Well, until recently, I wrote predominantly science fiction; I think
that was mostly because that was most of what I read. I still have
several sci-fi ideas, but I've also developed quite a list of fantasy
and urban fantasy ideas that I think will be really fun. (Yes, I
started expanding my reading list into fantasy and urban fantasy a
little while a go.) I always thought it was easier to write good
science fiction than good fantasy, but I stand corrected.

Love fantasy. As you know, I don't write Sci-fi at all. It hurts my brain.

Do you have any writing rituals? Music, silence, eating, etc.

I create playlists (or soundtracks, if you will) for whatever story
I'm working on. I'm a VERY auditory person, so listening to music
really helps me get my imagination running. And each playlist is
different, depending on the genre and situation (e.g. right now I'm
writing a fantasy, therefore little, if any, rock or lyrics, mostly
instrumental). When I create a new scene and nothing in my playlist
seems to fit it, I find something that does and add it to the queue.

Love the soundtrack thing. Definitely something I need to do.

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, etc?

This is something I really can't pin down. Most of my ideas come on
slowly (over weeks or even months) and often incorporate several
diverse elements (see my blog post on my recent breakthrough if you
want an example). I think I can safely say that details I like from
other stories often form part of my ideas, at least in the embryonic
stage. For example, my inspiration for writing Penitence can be traced
back to when I saw Pirates of the Caribbean (the fact that Will, in a
sense, became a pirate to attain his goal, even though he hated
piracy). They come from all over the place, really.

That's awesome. And can I just say I heart pirates. A lot.

Any advice for other aspiring authors?

1) If you have an idea, start writing! If you get stuck, don't be
afraid to A.) stop and just think hard for a while, or B.) move on to
a different scene or a different part of the story; it's amazing how
often something that happens later in the story can solve a problem
earlier on.

2) Find a writer you know and trust. Bounce your ideas off them. Have
them critique you chapter by chapter. Two minds are always better than
one.

Great advice!

Random Writing Question: If Darth Vader appeared on your MC's
doorstep, how would he/she defeat him?

Kale Burguest (Penitence): run like #%&! until he can face him in a
one-on-one dogfight. Then blow him out of the sky.

LOL!!

Dathan (Dathan the Sorcerer): analyze Vader's force skills and devise
a way to turn them against him

Sasha Richton (Witchblood): invent a new spell to protect her from his
force attacks, then use a tried-and-true spell to immobilize him*

Thomas Mansfield (Desperate Times): call in an air strike from his
orbiting destroyer*

Epic answers. :) Thank you so much Reece!! :D

Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Patti Nielson

Today I'm excited for you guys to meet Patti! She was one of the very first people to comment on my blog! Even though she shouldn't have, since I sucked at writing back then... ;) Anyway, let's get to the interview! Check out her blog, here.

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

As far as I can remember, I’ve always loved to read, but when I was around ten I read a book called “The Keeping Days” by Norma Johnson and I knew from that moment I wanted to be a writer.

I love it when I find out people knew from such a young age that they wanted to be a writer. So inspiring.

Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you get a spare moment?

No schedule. I usually have a list of things I want to get done and then try to squeeze that it between working part time, playing soccer, housework, and kids, so I just write when I get a spare moment. Sometimes it takes me longer than I want to get everything done.

Amen to that! :)

Could you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents? I know you are a big soccer fan!

I like looking through cookbooks almost as much as I like reading a novel, which is funny because I really don’t like to cook. I love playing soccer, but I hate running. And although I complain, I love my family’s tradition of climbing a mountain every summer.

I love soccer too. I really need to get on a team. It would be a blast, and I'd stay in shape!

If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you couldn't live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.)

My soccer team, oh wait, that’s not really a thing – how about a soccer ball and a cookbook on 101 ways to prepare coconuts.

Ha ha! :) But what if there weren't any coconuts? Only bananas? I'm afraid I would starve... Gross.

What is one book you could read over and over and over?

I don’t typically reread whole books, only the parts I love, but if I had to pick one book it would be the one that inspired me to be a writer “The Keeping Days” by Norma Johnston.



I love getting recommendations! I'll definitely check this one out!

What book are you dying to read this year?

Possession by Elana Johnson. I’m totally getting into the dystopia genre. Other than that I’m just trying to catch up on all the books that came out last year.

So excited for that one too!! :D

What genre do you write and why?

I started off writing adult fiction because I thought that’s what I was suppose to write (I know that sounds totally stupid). It wasn’t until I read Harry Potter that I realized that I could write books for kids that adults would read. After that I realized I wanted to write YA/MG because that’s when I fell in love with reading.

I did the same thing. I started with adult and figured out I loved YA. :)

Do you have any writing rituals? Music, silence, eating, etc.

I wish I could have silence while I write, but my computer is right beside the TV where my kids bounce balls, play video games, or watch sports. I really need a laptop. I guess my best writing happens when the kids are at school or late at night. 
 
Why do kids have to be so loud? He he. Totally kidding.

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, etc?

My Icelandic ancestors inspired my first book. In their biographies they talked about the idea that hidden people lived on their island. My latest idea is a combination of a news story and a name that I heard. Something about the name just sparked an idea for a character. Lots of times my best ideas come in the tub or while I’m taking a walk by myself.

Those biographies sound amazing!

Any advice for aspiring authors?

Although I’m still an aspiring author, my advice is to learn everything you can about the publishing industry so you know what to expect along the way. When I first started writing, to the point where I thought I had something to sell, I thought I would finish my book in September, sell it by December, and then it would come out a couple of months later. I know, totally naïve. Also, have patience (I know I’m beginning to hate that word as well), but it’s so true.

Patience really is a HUGE part of this business. It sucks, but you gotta have it.

Random Writing Question:What would your current MC do with one million dollars?

She’d find out what happened to her parents

Intriguing!! :D Thank you so much, Patti!

Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Nikki Wilson

Is it seriously Thursday already? This week has flown by! Anyhoo, I'd like to introduce you to the fabulous Nikki Wilson! She posts every Thursday on Mormon Mommy Writers. Check it out! :)

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

I was in third grade when I first learned about creative writing. I made my own book called "The Day it Rained Jello". I was hooked ever since.

Can I see that book? It sounds awesome!

Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you get a spare moment?

I usually just sit down whenever I get a chance. Though I do try to make sure to write first thing every morning. I usually write whatever comes into my head. I get my best ideas first thing in the morning. I am working on finding a writing schedule for myself, but right now it hasn't quite happened yet.

I wish I had the brain power to concentrate in the morning. :P

Could you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents?

I'm what you would call a jack of all trades, but master of none. I have many hobbies like photography, jewelry beading, scrapbooking, drawing, cosmetology, cooking, and whatever catches my fancy at the time. I am a mother of four, three daughters and one son. My oldest child will be starting high school next year (which makes me kind of old). I work at a school as a reading tutor to second and third graders. It's as close as I can get to my dream of doing author school visits at the moment. I really love it. Hmm, what else could you possibly want to know about me?

Holy cow! You do a lot of stuff! And FYI, you are not old! :)

If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you couldn't live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.)

That's easy, bacon! Did I mention that diets aren't my thing either? Besides, who doesn't like bacon?

Uh...pretty sure that is the most random answer I've ever gotten out of this question! LOL

What is one book you could read over and over and over?

I love the "Wheel of Time" series by Robert Jordan/Brandon Sanderson. I read it over and over again. And I don't normally like to read books more than once.

I'm still stuck on that last answer! LOL I'm laughing still! And I've never read anything by Brandon Sanderson. I know. I'm going to put my nose in the corner now. :(

What book are you dying to read this year?

Honestly? I'm dying to read the final draft of my on going WIP. If only I didn't have to edit it first!

Good luck with that!

What genre do you write and why?

I write many genres because I can't settle on just one. I am writing an LDS non-fiction book about finding balance between our spirit and our body. I also have been writing a YA fantasy series for the past three years. I have a love/hate relationship with that particular series. It has taken me on such an adventure, I just often feel that my writing skill can't do the story justice. But I'm learning to realize that the story can shine despite my deficiencies. I also have two partial romances, two science fictions, a fantasy and a children's picture book all in the works (I'm a self diagnosed ADD writer).

Good for you! I'm all over the place too, but always YA. I can't bring myself to write anything else. :)

Do you have any writing rituals? Music, silence, eating, etc.

Not really. I do enjoy writing during word challenges with some of my writing friends, or using "write or die" it really keeps me motivated.

You'll have to fill be in on the "write of die" thing. I've never heard of it... *hides*

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, etc?

I know it's trite, but dreams really do give me my best ideas. Sometimes driving helps too, or going for a nice long walk.

Any advice for aspiring authors?

Yes, just because you can't seem to make yourself sit down to write doesn't mean your not a writer. That was the hardest thing for me to get past. I would block myself from being able to write and then think it meant I wasn't really a writer. I learned that I had to find balance within myself. The balance is bringing peace and a renewed ability to write. I'm still overcoming my fear of editing, but hey, I'm an aspiring author myself!

I still have a hard time when I can't sit down and write. Thanks for the great advice, Nikki. :)

Random Writing Question: If your MC had the choice to go back in time, where would they go and why?

Well, going with my YA fantasy series, I would have to say he would go back to the dark ages and try to prevent the introduction of the power that caused the dark ages to happen. If he couldn't prevent it, he would try to stop the formation of the dream world that put an end to mythical creatures living on earth...or would he?

Cool! I love the dark ages. They are so interesting. Your series sounds fantastic! Thank you SO much, Nikki! :D

Aspiring Author Thursday: Introducing Lisa Turner

Today I'd like to welcome, Lisa to my blog. I met Lisa through Mormon Mommy Writers about a year ago, and we were put in the same online critique group. She is awesome and an amazing writer. I got to meet her in person at LDStorymakers this year. She won the first chapter contest in her genre, women's fiction. It was SO awesome to see her win! Check out her blog, here.

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

Seriously, this is a trick question. When I was in like the third grade I remember having this idea or dream (can't remember which anymore) that I should write a book about my teacher being an alien. But I ignored it. Then, a year or so later, a young boy came to our school touring with his published book about his teacher being an alien. I kind of took that as a sign, but didn't get serious about writing.

I've always loved writing but it was always my worst subject in school. ALWAYS. I couldn't get my brain to write the supposedly simply 5 paragraph paper. My neurons just don't fire that way. Well, I took the bad grades and negative responses I got from classmates (that's a whole other story in itself) and convinced myself I wasn't a good writer and that I couldn't and therefore shouldn't write. So, I quashed my love for storytelling, at least on the page. I've been an avid daydreamer forever. I can still remember the day I unlocked that secret world and how it transformed me. There is nothing more magical than creating a world all your own inside your head. 

About eight years ago I had this idea I should start writing down the ideas that popped into my head. That gradually morphed from short ideas to longer ideas. Eventually I began dabbling with paragraphs, then pages, then one day I accepted the little voice in the back of my mind that had been telling me I should be writing and started putting my daydreams into words. It took a while before I told anybody what I was doing.

So, in answer to your question, the moment I realized God (i.e. the little voice) wanted me to write and that I liked to write, a pamphlet from our local community college extension office came in the mail. In that pamphlet I discovered the first ever (for our small community) creative writing class and signed up. (I had decided the day before I needed a creative writing class because I didn't know ANYTHING about the mechanics of story telling. The timing isn't a coincidence.) That was almost two years ago. When I realized that the promptings and my acceptance of them had aligned perfectly with the creative writing class being offered for the first time I knew that I wanted to be a writer. For some reason I needed a little validation to let myself actually accept my love for writing. That's when I knew.

That is so awesome how everything just clicked into place. You were obviously supposed to be a writer.

Do you have a writing schedule, or do you just sit down whenever you get a spare moment?

Schedule? Ha! I tried to do a schedule but that didn't work. My kids don't seem to want to cooperate. I write when I can. Sometimes that means I'm madly typing out a chapter when I should be fixing dinner. Sometimes it means I don't write at all for weeks at a time. I don't really struggle with a muse problem. I just have to force myself to sit down and focus. Then the words seem to come. I won't guarantee they aren't crap, but at least they're coming.

My muse is always there as well. Sometimes, too much. ;)

Could you tell us a little about yourself? Random facts? Hidden talents?

My, myself, and I is very shy. I used to be outgoing but those nasty teenage years made me very self-conscious. I'm working on it. I am doing better and find myself not nearly as nervous as I used to be. I actually attribute some of this to Paula Dean--don't laugh. Her story of overcoming her social issues made me feel like there was hope. If she can go from shy and withdrawn to the wonderful, friendly, and happy chef we all know and love, maybe I can to (except for the chef part--not my thing).

I don't have a favorite of anything. Not even a favorite color. My favorite shifts with my mood.

Random Facts: I lettered in track (sprinting) my Freshman year of high school then quit my sophomore year because I didn't really like the stress of it. Nothing made me sicker than a pre-basketball game stomach ache or the anxiety of getting ready for a race. If I could have done sports without all the coaches yelling and the teammate drama I would have loved it. But confrontation and negative behavior (coaches yelling) was too hard on me. Instead of being inspired to try harder, I withdrew and struggled to give the effort I should. My friend informs me that this is because I am HSP--and I'm inclined to agree.

Hidden Talents: I can play the piano (don't tell anyone at church). I am super organized (when I want to be). I have an uncanny ability to gauge people's emotions--at least I think I do.

That is exactly the same reason I didn't do sports in high school. Sigh.

If you were stranded on a desert island, what is one thing you couldn't live without? (Besides your family and a laptop of course.)

I have no idea! Seriously, I love the idea of it. I always wished I could be a member of the Swiss Family Robinson. Getting stranded in some place deserted with my family sounds awesome. (It helps that my hubby is a super-duper outdoorsman who could be confused with MacGuyver because he's so handy!)

What is one book you could read over and over and over?

I must confess I have a hard time re-reading anything! Once is usually enough. But, I'd have to say the Harry Potter books would fall under that category. J.K. Rowling did such a good job of layering and creating more than just one plot that there's always something new to discover!

I totally agree. LOVE Harry Potter! :D

What book are you dying to read this year? 

Depends on your definition of dying. If you mean dying in the sense that I'm dying to get it over with then I would say my public speaking textbook. If you mean dying to get my hands on it--I don't have one. I'm a pretty picky reader and it's rare to find a book that makes me salivate like that.

But I am excited to read Paranormalcy by Kiersten White. I'm getting it from the library this week!

I know I did this interview about a month ago... I'm curious how you liked Paranormalcy!? Loved it.

What genre do you write and why?

I write mostly Women's Fiction and Fantasy. Why, because I LOVE them and because that seems to be where my ideas come from. I am a closet Sci-Fi fanatic. Even those cheese Sci-fi channel movies that have bad acting and sub-par plots catch my attention. There is something about the medieval time period merged with fantasy that I adore. Deep down inside of me there is place that is drawn to castles and armor and horses and battles and the peasant's life. It's almost like a yearning or a craving I need to satisfy. I can't explain it any more than I can satiate it. If I could travel through time and see, first hand, the era of King Arthur I would do it in a heart beat (so long as I was guaranteed safety and a return to my own time).

Take me with you.

Do you have any writing rituals? Music, silence, eating, etc.

No rituals with the exception of silence. I can't write when music is on. I daydream to music but it blocks the words from getting to the page.

It depends on my mood. Sometimes I can write to music, and sometimes I listen to it and turn it off to write.

Where do you come up with your ideas? Dreams, while driving, etc?

Ideas just strike me out of nowhere. One short story I wrote was inspired by picking a dime up off the kitchen floor. I stuck the coin in my pocket and raced to my computer where half of the story just flowed out of me. Really, I feel like my inspiration comes where it needs to. Sometimes, when I'm sitting in church and a lesson or a comment strike an idea (all for the same story--every time) I know it's divine inspiration and I listen extra carefully.

Awesome. I rarely get ideas at church. Maybe I should listen more... ;)

Any advice for aspiring authors?

Write for yourself. Who cares if you get published? If you care, you're motivation is all wrong. That doesn't mean it can't be a goal or a dream, but your love and drive shouldn't be hinged on a publication deal.

And, write the story you want to hear. Don't write it for someone else to love. You have to love it first.

Great advice. Write for you. Not anyone else.

Random Writing Question: If your MC could turn into any animal, what would it be and why?

Which MC? 

Brenna--a caterpillar. I know, technically that's a bug, but the transformation she goes through is so like that of a beautiful butterfly.

Haedric--(I made up that name--no stealing.)  He would become a wild horse because his strength is useless until it is tamed. Once he can master himself and his demons he will be a force to be reckoned with!

 Thank you SO much, Lisa! You rock! :D