Since your first interview with us, how do you feel you’ve evolved as a writer — both in your storytelling and your perspective on your craft?
Thanks for asking! In my storytelling, I’ve learned to describe the scenes in a more immersive way. I want my characters to be as real to the reader as they are to me. Probably the most significant evolution has been in learning that writing books doesn’t have to be a solitary endeavor. Plenty of help is available, and good critique partners are a priceless treasure.
Looking back, what has been the most significant turning point in your writing career over these past years?
It would have to be the realization that I need a lot of help to keep me on track. Each of my books started with a writing challenge like National Novel Writing Month. When the timing didn’t work out, a friend and I chose a different month for the same challenge. It’s impossible to turn off my inner editor, but knowing I had to write over a thousand words a day kept that voice in my head to a whisper. In a story, details count, and spreadsheets keep them at hand for me. Sharing critiques with others during the writing process has honed my skill as a writer.
The TETRASPHERE series is now complete. How has finishing such a large project impacted you personally and creatively?
After I held the final book of the Tetrasphere series in my hands, I fully expected the glow of accomplishment to last forever and set me free to retire in peace. It certainly increased my confidence in all aspects. Writing a book is no small feat, but completing a series takes it to another level. I’d accomplished a goal I never knew I had. Instead, one story gave birth to another, and I soon found myself writing again. The result is the Dragon Guild series. If I didn’t know better, I’d say NOW I’m done.
Have your readers’ feedback or fan interactions over the years ever influenced your writing direction or inspired new story ideas?
Yes. To my surprise, many of my readers expressed interest in reading more after they read the Tetrasphere series. Now that Dragon Guild is out, we’ll see if they’ve had enough.
Over time, has your definition of “success” as an author changed? If yes, how so?
Success, in my mind, has always been delivering a well-written, exciting story to my readers while still honoring God. Each book purchase is a success. When readers review the books, I’ve succeeded. Achieving best seller would be wonderful because it means the books are being read, enjoyed, and talked about by a lot of people. Well, honestly, not only for that reason. I sometimes imagine making a living by my stories.
Which part of the writing process do you find yourself enjoying more now compared to when you first started?
I love being in the flow and seeing the story come to life as my fingers fly over the keyboard. When a plot twist surprises me, or a character does or says something unexpected, I know I’m immersed in the story. When I first started, I kept everything to myself. Now, I have a group of author friends who trust me to critique their chapters as much as I trust them to critique mine. Interactions with these fine people have helped me grow in the craft and as a person. I treasure them.
If you could go back and give your younger author-self one piece of advice from your present self, what would it be?
Do not attempt this by yourself. Learn as you go, seek advice, and share what you know.
How has your relationship with your characters changed over the years — do they still surprise you the way they did in the beginning?
Certainly. Perhaps more so. My characters from the first series have lived and matured. Gabri, who was an infant in that series, is now sixteen in the beginning of this new one. The dragons surprised me at every turn, as did the cast of new characters. I’m certain you’ve heard this before, but those folks live in my brain. I love them all. Maybe not all. Some are nasty.
With more books under your belt, how do you now balance creativity with the practical side of being an author, such as marketing and deadlines?
Thankfully, there are no deadlines. I’m not wired for marketing but knowing how many scammers try to take advantage of published authors, I’m learning more about it.
What has been the most unexpected lesson you’ve learned about readers, publishing, or the book industry since we last spoke?
Writing books is the easy part.
Do you feel your writing voice has matured or shifted in tone over time? Can you point to a moment or a book where you noticed it most?
The first series was written in first person, with four main characters. The plot flowed forward as each character experienced what was happening, but it took a little getting used to. The tone of the second series is different. It’s written in third person, which is tricky when it comes to point of view issues. I believe the scenes and descriptions may be more vivid.
How has your life outside of writing — family, travels, or personal growth — shaped your more recent stories compared to your earlier ones?
The first books, a blend of science fiction and fantasy, were written to appeal to our kids and grandkids. Since then, we’ve taken some cruises and made some road trips. Scenes and characters came to me during those trips. Where tons of research went into the first series, the second has drawn from more personal experiences. Not that I’ve ever visited the worlds in the recent stories. Or ridden a dragon.
Are there themes or messages you find yourself returning to again and again, even if unconsciously?
Themes I’m conscious of weaving into the stories include a spiritual connection with God, the Creator, and the strength of family, whether actual or chosen. The rest happen organically as I write. I couldn’t have picked them out myself, but here are some noted by editorial reviewers: finding power in who you are, loyalty, courage, forgiveness, personal growth, sacrifice, good versus evil, and love.
Looking ahead, what’s one dream project or writing goal you hope to accomplish in the next five years that you haven’t tackled yet?
One of the characters in the final book of the Dragon Guild series is compelling me to share his story. Perhaps I’ll share others from the series, as well. Although I’d enjoy branching out into other genres, it appears I haven’t quite finished with this one yet.
Thank you for having trust in AllAuthor and making us a part of your incredible journey. What has been your favourite thing about AllAuthor in all these years?
So far, I love the tweets AllAuthor sends out, and the review gif maker. Now that I’m focusing on marketing and have time to explore, I’m sure I’ll discover more. The staff has always been quick to answer any questions or concerns I’ve had, which gives me even more confidence in the quality of your services. Thank you!
