Tell us a bit about your most recent work.
The Dark Moon is the first book in the Night Goddess Series. It follows five characters as they face challenges in a world that has just broken. Again.
What are the themes and subjects you tend to revisit in your work?
Triumph after adversity and found family.
What happened in your life that prompted you to become a writer?
I was in a vehicle vs pedestrian accident, and I wasn’t in the vehicle. A neighbor intentionally hit me with his truck, and I ended up in a wheelchair. I started role-playing online, then eventually writing stories to deal with the pain and loss of mobility. It was one of the things that saved me, writing stories.
What inspires you to write?
I want people to know they aren’t alone.
What of your works has meant the most to you?
From the Ashes. I first wrote it in my twenties when I was very ill with an autoimmune disease, then rewrote it from memory while my husband was deployed. Many of the hardest times in my life are reflected in that book.
If you have any former project to do over to make it better, which one would it be, and what would you do?
The World Ablaze. I wish I’d given myself more time with it.
What writers have influenced your style and technique?
Sara Donati, Katherine Kerr, Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson
Where would you rank writing on the "Is it an art or it is a science continuum?" Why?
Storytelling is an art form. It takes nuance, emotional depth, and an ability to reach the soul of a reader. Creativity and imagination are the fuel of writing fiction. Yes, there are formulas you must follow to get a complete story but without an active imagination, a story has no heart. Imagination is art.
What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?
Not chasing the squirrels. Sometimes characters try to sidequest, and knowing when that builds on the plot or distracts from it can be difficult. Sometimes you have to ignore characters who whine about side quests and keep plugging away.
Sometimes though… those side quests are magic. Finding that balance can be hard.
How do your writer friends help you become a better writer? Or do they not?
What does literary success look like to you?
Readers knowing my name, seeking out my books, and connecting to my characters. Money is great. Making a difference is better.
Any other upcoming projects you would like to plug?
Big announcements are coming soon. Sign up for my newsletter to be in the know.
For more information, visit:
https://thesomerleduniverse.com/
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