Shana M Congrove Interview Published on: 10, Feb 2023
Where have you spent most of your childhood?
Northwest Arkansas
Were you an avid reader as a child? Do you still read books?In truth, I hated reading as a child, but I loved for my mother to read Disney books to me, especially Peter Pan. It wasn’t until I got into my thirties that I discovered romance novels. From then on, I became addicted to paranormal romance, dark fantasy, and horror.
What is something you tell yourself first thing in the morning that helps your mental state and helps you succeed throughout your day?For me, sticking to a routine keeps my mind on track. First thing, I run three to four miles before I start my day. That gets me focused to accomplish whatever I need.
What makes writing fun?The ability to use my imagination and creative side is always something I look forward to. It gives me a sense of purpose.
How did you feel when you first held your first copy of your novel, THE IMMORTAL?It was like seeing your child for the first time. The Immortal was the first book I published on my own after breaking away from a previous self-publishing company. It felt good to be able to do everything myself. Plus, the artist, Silvia Mauloabook did a wonderful job on the cover.
What kind of real-life people fascinate you?That’s an easy question. A dark and witty sense of humor, along with a creative mind, is always fascinating to me.
Is the skill of writing a natural gift or can it be acquired or learned within time?When I first came up with my storyline for my Novels of the Breedline series, I had no idea or training on how to write. A friend encouraged me to join a writing site in 2014 where I began sharing my story. To be honest, I had a good idea, but I was terrible at putting it on paper. With patience and the ability to take criticism, other authors and readers gave me helpful advice. From there, I kept on writing, learning more as I went along. I continue to grow as a writer with each book.
What makes writing easy or difficult for you?The easy part is knowing your characters. As I write their scenes, it’s as though I can see and hear their words in my head. The hard part is when I get writers block. But with confidence, I always push through.
Is it a good idea to write an entire first draft with no editing whatsoever?With me, I am very critical all throughout my manuscript. I edit throughout my writing. Then go back, reread, correct or edit. When I’m finished, I let my editor do his magic. But even after my editor does his thing, I still go over it again. And still, I find typos, missing words after it’s published, then go back and correct. I think that is standard for most authors. There’s no such thing as a perfect book.
As a fiction writer, is it possible to write characters without any of your own personal bias?All my characters have a little of me. I believe most authors can relate. It’s fun to bring out your alter-ego. Although, there are a few characters I do relate myself to. And… I’ve had a few friends request to have a character based on them. One of my main characters is based on my actual son. Although, he had no say so in the matter, but is thrilled regardless.
How did you create suspense that makes your book, Sins of Chaos impossible to put down?The trio of new villains called The Fury. Sins of Chaos brought out a bit of horror in my series, so there are many (bloody) action scenes. Plus, this story had more of a mystery vibe to storyline.
If you could give advice to your younger self, what would you say?1. Never trust a vanity self-publishing company. 2. Hold on before publishing your first book until you have written at least three or four in the series. 3. Hire an editor.
What are some ways to crush writer’s block?For me, it’s music, exercise, movies similar to my genre, or read other books to spark up an inspiration.
Is there anything new that you're working on? When can we expect the next book to come out?YES! I am currently rewriting my first book, Sweet Chaos. Then, I’m moving on to rewriting my second book, Total Chaos. Next in line is another book in my series (#7): Living Nightmares. After that, book #8: Vampirism in Manhattan. Lastly, book #9: Big Bad Wolf. When I finish all those, (if I’m still alive, ha-ha!) I will move on to write a children’s book.
How has your experience with AllAuthor been?Fabulous, of course! AllAuthor has been the best for me. It’s a great group to be a part of. I enjoy every benefit offered so far, and I encourage other authors, especially independent authors, to join.
