QUOTES ON READING & WRITING
“If you can tell stories, create characters, devise incidents, and have sincerity and passion, it doesn’t matter a damn how you write.”
Somerset Maugham
“I went for years not finishing anything. Because, of course, when you finish something you can be judged.”
Erica Jong
“I never feel lonely if I’ve got a book – they’re like old friends. Even if you’re not reading them over and over again, you know they are there. And they’re part of your history. They sort of tell a story about your journey through life.”
Emilia Fox
“You don’t have to burn books to destroy a culture. Just get people to stop reading them.”
Ray Bradbury
“If you would not be forgotten as soon as you are dead, either write something worth reading or do things worth writing.”
Benjamin Franklin
Q & A
With
Candace
1. What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing these books?
I've been interested in writing books since I was a child. I made it a bucket list goal to write my own book one day and back in 2011 I finally accomplished that goal.
2. Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven?
My books ideas come from either real life situations I've been through or observed others going through. Then I put a spin on the story and add the what-ifs. I do like my stories to be more reality-based. I want a reader to delve into my books and be able to relate to one or more of the characters within. I like to think my books are character and plot driven. I think they go hand in hand.
3. Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special?
I think it's important to have characters you relate to even if you can't stand them and hate the things they say or do. That's the way life is. We all have people in our lives we love but hate sometimes.
4. What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing these books?
It was just time to do it so I did.
5. How long does it take to complete one of your books?
It varies.
6. Do you have any suggestions to help me become a better writer?
Just sit down and do it. You have to be your biggest cheerleader because if you wait for others to get started you never will. Have confidence in yourself. It may seem like everyone is writing books these days and that anyone can do it but that's just not true.
7. How do you feel when someone disagrees with something you have written?
Everyone has the right to disagree. I don't think anything of it. I also pay no attention to how a reader feels like a book should have ended. Though don't get me wrong, I love feedback and opinions but I've never written a book and due to a review wish I'd done things differently. I go where the characters lead me while I'm writing. Sometimes I'm even surprised at what happens!
8. Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book?
Not really in my own writing. I've had transgender, interracial, paranormal and I'll continue to try to add interesting characters to my roster.
9. Do you learn anything personal from writing your book?
I try to learn something from all the books I write. Different ways of addressing situations that I might not do in my own life etc..
10. What projects are you working on at the present?
Too many to name! I always have something in the works.
