Andrea McKenzie Raine Interview Published on: 05, Jan 2016

Short bio or SYNOPSIS here on writing as your passion.

I was enrolled in the Creative Writing program and earned a B.A. in English Literature at the University of Victoria in 2000, and completed a post-degree Public Relations certificate program. I have attended the successful Planet Earth Poetry reading series (formerly known as Mocambopo) in Victoria, BC since 1997, and participated in the Glenairley writing retreats led by Canadian poet and novelist Patrick Lane in Sooke, BC. In 2005, I published my first book of poetry, titled A Mother’s String, through Ekstasis Editions. My poetry has also appeared in Mocambo Nights, Canadian Literature journal, Quills, Borderlines anthology (Ascent Aspirations magazine), Tempus anthology (Rubicon Press), Poems from Planet Earth (Leaf Press), Tongues of Fire anthology, and several Glenairley chapbooks edited by Patrick Lane (Leaf Press). I have also written book reviews and articles for local magazines, celebrating the work of my peers. I live with my husband and two young sons and, by day, I am a correspondence writer for the provincial government. I published my debut novel, Turnstiles (2014), and a prequel novel, A Crowded Heart (2015) through Inkwater Press.

How long have you been writing and what inspired you to do it seriously?

I have been writing since I could hold a pencil. I began keeping a journal in the first grade, and writing poems and short stories in the second grade. My third grade teacher really encouraged me in my writing and told me she wouldn't be surprised to see an entire book written by me one day. That was a pivotal moment. Since then, I set myself on a path to becoming an author.

When choosing a name for your characters, what do you consider about them that determines what you finally call them?

Character names pop into my head, and usually stick. The naming process for me is organic. I tend to not over think them or make them too symbolic.

Did you have a collection in mind when you were writing them?

I didn't have a series in mind when I was writing Turnstiles; however, later I realized that the story did have legs. I began writing a prequel for one of the characters who is deceased from the beginning of the first book.

How did you choose which stories to include and in what order?

I wrote my debut novel, which has a character who is significant, yet deceased from the beginning of the story. Afterwards, I felt that he had his own story to tell, so I wrote a prequel focusing on his character.

Do you have a “reader” in mind when you write stories?

No. I write these stories because the characters intrigue me and lead me through their journeys. In the end, I hope others will enjoy the journeys as much as I do.

What do you do to get book reviews? what is the best review you ever got?

I make friends with authors and readers through social media (Facebook, Goodreads, etc.), join author groups and take advantage of book review services. The best review I ever received was: 5 stars -- "Turnstiles" by Andrea McKenzie Raine is the story of different people as they struggle through common social problems. To me, the book is divided into sections or novellas. Three stories blend as one. The plot is creative, the work is ambitious as well as engrossing and addictive. While beautifully written at times, some of the main characters are so flawed that it becomes frustrating. I must say, It's an interesting book thats worth every penny and every hour you spend reading it. -Fe's review on Goodreadshttps://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1103599855?book_show_action=false&from_review_page=1

What does the word “story” mean to you?

Story means a twisting journey taken by one or several characters to find something meaningful.

What are you working on now?

I am now working on a sequel to Turnstiles. The story hasn't ended quite yet. I am also working on a YA novella titled Three Months in the Mountains with my Grandpa's Ghost and a collection of poetry titled A Year of Mornings.

Do you have a special time to write or how is your day structured?

I write when I can. I have a full-time job outside of the house, and two little monkeys to take care of --so my writing time is sparse and precious. Usually, I write later at night when my boys are asleep.

How do you promote your work? How Quotesrain help you in your book promotions and sales, would you like to refer this platform to your author friends?

I promote my work on social media (Facebook, Goodreads, Twitter) and through local bookstores and word-of-mouth. I would definitely refer my author friends to Quotesrain.

Would you like to share something with your readers and fan?

I write stories to share my deepest parts; pieces of my own journeys wrapped in fiction: places, loves, losses, thoughts, realizations and desires. I hope readers will embark on these journeys with me.

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