Tell us about your life and your struggles.
When I was young, with a growing family, life was very busy as for everyone. It was challenging but rewarding to have our own farm produce and artifact business. As part of that, working as a freelance animal artist and raising three children, left no time for my dream of writing but I had much to value. Now, retired early I do have time and enjoying very much a new "chapter" in my life!
How passionate are you about writing?
I am very passionate about writing. I have a daily ritual, writing before the birds are up.
How long have you been writing and what inspired you to become a writer?
First entertained the idea of journalism at high school, having received a few minor literary awards, with strong encouragement from teachers. But then I got different ideas, with a keen hankering to travel, I dropped everything and went. Always an avid reader, inspired by many great writers. Eighteen months ago I suddenly found I had a story to tell and one thing led to another.
How did you get the idea for your first book?
1st book..... It formed itself, is the only way I can describe it. It was a story I wanted to read.
While choosing a name for your character, what aspects do you consider that determines what you finally call them?
As corny as it might sound...they make themselves known to me!
Do authors in general and you in particular plan series beforehand or do they just happen?
I make a rough plan, then things happen as the story develops.
How do you choose which stories to tell?
At the moment the first book opened a pandora's box of ideas in an addicting realm. I do not know where it will lead....it's exciting.
Do you ever get writer’s block?
Only once so far, second book, computer crashed, it had not been saving to disc and I lost one month’s work. I was stunned to inaction until I made myself rewrite it all!
Do you have a “reader” in mind while writing?
I write as if I am the reader. I can only hope other readers like what I do, I suppose.
Who is the first person to read the first draft of your books?
First book first reader was my son. He is a teacher and very objective. Second book, a beta reader. Third will be at least two betas.
How do you get reviews? Which was the best review you ever got?
I give away copies for review, I ask people who have bought from me, I submit to many places. I have been lucky to get some very good ones. My favourite was the editorial one from Goodbooks Today Reviews.
What does the word “story” signifies for you?
"Story" -An adventure!
Do you think an author should be bound by Genre?
Not if they have the desire and background knowledge to explore other genres.
Are you currently working on anything?
Currently writing book #3 of the Fire Chronicles, Legacy, which I hope to launch in January.
Do you have a special time or place for writing?
As soon as I wake up, I am the most creative then. I grab my coffee and away I go.
How do you promote your work? How will QuotesRain help you in your book promotion and sales, would you like to refer this platform to your author friends?
I have tried various promotions some better than others. I really like the Quotesrain service, the creative tools and value for money. I have, and will continue to recommend.
Would you like to share something with your readers and fans?
'Think true, fly free and use your powers wisely'- Lord Thunis, (from Gaian philosophy, though this is good advice for humans too!)
And a teaser from my new book, "Legacy" -
'Despite suffering a mysterious illness, Lord Luminor's benificence must now reach past the bounds of the Known World. Beyond the Impossible Mountains, Morvian allies suffer unspeakable atrocities at the hands of a barbarian horde. Driven by destiny, Luminor's intrepid daughter, Espira, seizes an opportunity to disobey her father, summoning new powers and old, to join the quest. So many lives are at stake, the Alliance must be upheld and Luminor's life-long vision, his legacy, awaits her unique powers... However gifted, Espira will not escape the agonies of love and loss. For the Time of the First Fire has begun....and every new age requires sacrifice!'
Done. I hope this not too wordy, Yours Sincerely, Susi.
