Can you tell us about your journey as an author, and when did you first realize your passion for writing?
My passion for writing started very early on when I got tired of reading the same things over and over again and unable to find stories. I could fully connect with. So, I decided to write what I wanted to read. I wanted full creative control which lead me to publishing independently. My journey as an author has had many highs and some lows. I was recently reminded that it’s a marathon not a sprint.
Your bio mentions that you've been composing stories, poems, and lyrics from an early age. Could you share a memorable early writing experience that influenced your love for storytelling?
When I was a young girl, my favourite animal and still is, is the majestic wolf. Back then there were not many story books about wolves other than factual ones with plenty of pictures which I loved collecting. Most of my stories early on depicted wolves. The connection I shared with wolves was being misunderstood. I recently realized thetrue reason why I write. Not only is it therapeutic, but it also allows me to teach through the written word.
What inspires your creativity? Are there specific themes or experiences that tend to find their way into your writing?
Every day life has the ability to inspire. A song on the radio. A creative online image. A quote. Life experiences. A common theme in my stories, not originally planned, is between love and hate. At the end of the day, love wins when one finally learns to surrender to hate.
How do you balance your love for exploring off the beaten path, both figuratively and literally, with your writing? Have these experiences impacted your work?
I enjoy exploring off trails when out walking and I dare to be unique when writing stories trying not to write the same thing twice or being predictable. I love good twists. As for balancing the two, when I need a mental break, I have the physical activity of walking on unknown terrain.
Your location is described as the Keystone State. How does your environment influence your writing, and have you featured it in any of your works?
Funny you should ask that question as I’m currently working on a story that features PA. I can’t make any promises when it might be completed or released. Being an independent author allows me to go my own pace without the pressure of deadlines. The PA nature trails are where I seek peace of mind to ponder story ideas.
What's your reading routine like? Do you have favorite genres or authors that you frequently turn to for inspiration?
I read a variety of genres. When I’m writing, I don’t read so I don’t subconsciously write what I read into my stories. When I’m not deep in a writing project, I read for pleasure. Some authors I turn to that I don’t need to know what the book is about include Kristin Hannah, Carlene Thompson, Chevy Stevens, Ruta Sepetys, and Linwood Barclay. I loved the Stillhouse Lake series by Rachel Caine and her writing style helped strengthen my technique. Right now, I’m into reading books by indie authors and supporting them knowing it’s a difficult process to reach readers.
Your writing likely encompasses a variety of genres. Could you tell us about your favorite genre to write in and what draws you to it?
I enjoy writing in the YA genre in hopes that my stories, filled with sometimes difficult topics, can have an impact on the youth readers who may be experiencing the same issues, like bullying, and connect with the characters knowing they are not alone and maybe learn what they can do through my character’s flaws and actions.
As an award-winning author, what has been the most rewarding moment of your writing career so far?
My most rewarding moment was finally publishing my first book, The Darkest Side of the Moon, and finally being able to refer to myself as an author instead of a writer. It’s heartwarming that I can now refer to myself as an award-winning author knowing my hard work and dedication has been recognized.
How did you come up with the title of your book, "The Darkest Side of the Moon"? What has your AllAuthor experience been like so far? What are some highlights?
The idea for The Darkest Side of the Moon was the protagonist falling over the edge to their dark side. There is dark content in each of the books in The Dark series which is why I use the word “dark” in each of the titles. A metaphor sprinkled with symbolism. My experience with AllAuthor has been nothing but positive and I enjoy creating new GIFs to be tweeted weekly.
Can you describe your writing process? Do you have any particular rituals or habits that help you get into a writing groove?
I do not have any rituals. I grew into the habit of pacing myself after writing The Dark series back to back and not jumping ahead to scenes that I visualize as character development changes the direction the story goes and I learned the hard way I’ll end up having to rewrite the scenes if I jump ahead.
Can you share some music or musicians that have influenced your writing or inspired specific pieces?
Yes! Within Temptation’s album The Unforgiving was a heavy influence for part 3 of The Darkest Side of the Moon. When I find myself stuck, I tend to listen to music for inspiration. When I was about halfway through A Dance Between Light and Darkness, sequel to The Darkest Side of the Moon, it was Natalie Taylor’s Love is the Answer that ignited the hidden theme I had not yet grasped for my series. Other artists that helped influenced my stories include Tommee Profitt, Floor Jensen, Skillet, Kelly Clarkson, and Pink to name a few. A list of all songs and artists can be found in the back of my books.
You live with a clowder of felines. Do your pets play a role in your writing or serve as sources of inspiration?
Absolutely! I’ve lived with cats my whole life and Leo, the cat in my The Dark series, is dedicated to my best friend Tiggie who unfortunately crossed the rainbow bridge. I have an idea for a children's book about the clowder, the current felines that I live with, but again, I can't make any promises if or when it will be completed. Anyone who would like to know more about the clowder can follow their official Instagram at Instagram (@theclowder0)
Autumn is your favorite season for trail walks. Do you find that the changing seasons have a bearing on your writing style or the themes you explore in your work?
Sometimes. Walking in nature allows me to focus on story development when I find myself frustrated with the direction current writing projects are going or when facing the dreaded writer’s block.
Are there any upcoming projects or works that you're particularly excited about sharing with your readers?
Oh yes, readers can anticipate The Darkened Enchantment and Infinity Tales in 2024 which is part of The Dark series. Readers can visit my website (https://www.mcryderauthor.com) "") to learn a little more about what each story will be about.
What has your AllAuthor experience been like so far? What are some highlights?
My experience with AllAuthor has been completely positive and I’m so glad I discovered the platform as it’s exactly what I was searching for that I have yet to find elsewhere. There are so many extra perks, including the magic tool feature, seasonal mockups, GIF banners, and cover of the month contest all within my price range. Allows me the creativity to post professional looking content on my socials.
