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Thank you for spending a little time with us here on the blog today, Danielle!
Where are you from?
A galaxy far, far away
Married with children, pets, or annoying roommates?
I’m single because I like sweatpants and staying home.
Are you self-published, traditional, or hybrid?
Hybrid.
How long have you been a writer?
Since the day I could hold a pencil and make scribbles on paper.
Are you a full-time writer or do you also work outside the home?
Full-time writer, worrier, and self-doubter because that’s all part of the job description.
How long did it take you to write your first book?
About six months.
Pantser or Plotter?
A little bit of both. For my novels and children’s books I’m definitely a plotter but, for my poetry, I’m totally a pantser.
What has been your biggest challenge in your writing journey?
Two things, the first challenge would be dealing with parlaying self-doubt about my work. The second biggest challenge would be trying to find honest and competent people to work with during the publishing process.
I know you’ve written children’s books, poetry, and historical romance. Did I miss any?
I also write short stories and horror.
Do you prefer writing in one genre over the others?
I enjoy writing in all genres. I want to write all the stories!
What’s your favorite genre to read?
That’s a tough question! I guess my answer would have to be that if it has pages and words written on them, then I’ll read it!
What are you reading now?
I am currently reading Transcription by Kate Atkinson and I’m loving it! It’s a historical fiction novel that deals with WWII espionage and betrayal.
Favorite author?
Choosing a favorite author is like choosing a favorite child! I enjoy so many but, if I had to pick, my top authors are Dorothy Parker, Karen White, Susanna Kearsley, Paula Brackston, Bill Bryson, and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Some authors need complete silence to write. How about you?
Yes, complete and total silence. I need quiet to plot all the murder and mayhem in my next book!
Where do you get the most writing done?
At my desk.
Totally addicted to social media or could you live without it?
I could totally live without it. If I could go back in time to before social media even existed I would do so in a heartbeat. I’m only on it out of sheer necessity for my work.
When you take off the author-hat, what do you do for fun?
I like to read, do graphic design, watch vintage film, dabble in photography, and I practice certain forms of mysticism.
Where do you see yourself, or where would you like to be… in five years?
I hope to have several more books out in the coming years and to keep growing my author platform. I also plan on opening a publishing company to help independent authors turn their dreams of being published into a reality and help them avoid some of the pitfalls I’ve encountered along the way.
What’s the inspiration behind your latest release?
My latest release is my historical fiction/romance book Fateful Voyage. The inspiration for the book is my fascination with fate and destiny and how two very different lives can collide together in a chance meeting. I think it’s interesting how there are billions of people on this planet yet, we only have meaningful relationships with very few people. It’s almost like those lives were meant to intersect…like it was written in the stars and that’s what makes those particular relationships extra special.
Who’s your favorite character?
My favorite character in the book is Kay because she is modeled after someone near and dear to my heart. Kay is the doting mom-figure in the book and is constantly watchful over Gwen. I love how protective and nurturing she is and how watchful she is over Gwen’s wellbeing. Kay is a loving, caring, kind, and compassionate soul, and even though she can be a worrier at times, that is what makes her so enduring. Her love for Gwen is so intense that she will do anything to keep her safe.
What’s your next project or release?
My next project is a historical fiction/drama all about the witch trials in colonial America. It delves into the dark past of the witch hunts and looks into the psychological and sociological reasons for the mass hysteria that took so many innocent lives. It’s set to be release in late spring or early summer so keep your eyes peeled!
Blurb for the upcoming book: The Hunted
A Community Under Siege
Beginning in January 1692, Salem Village in colonial Massachusetts witnessed the largest and most lethal outbreak of witchcraft in early America. Villagers–mainly young women–suffered from unseen torments that caused them to writhe, shriek, and contort their bodies, complaining of pins stuck into their flesh and of being haunted by specters. Believing that they suffered from assaults by an invisible spirit, the community began a hunt to track down those responsible for the demonic work. The resulting Salem Witch Trials, culminating in the execution of 19 villagers, persists as one of the most mysterious and fascinating events in American history. This is their story.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Never let anything strip you of your passion for writing. This is a tough crazy-making business and there will be times when you want to throw in the towel. But, at the end of the day, you have to remember your love for the craft. There is always going to be constant noise about what you should and should not be doing as an author…ignore it! Do what feels right to you. There is no right or wrong way to write. If you have talent and patience and determination then that’s all you need.
Love that advice! Thanks for stopping by, D! Don’t be a stranger! Continued success to you!
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Danielle is a multi-talented writer who has published in three genres
Children
Poetry
Historical Fiction
Stop by her Amazon Author Page today for book links, and don’t forget to follow her on social media!