Can you share the inspiration behind Their Lies series? Specifically, how you came up with the storylines? What sparked the idea and motivated you to start writing it? How many books will be in this series?
Ok so I was upset with my family, (That happens often) And I wrote a story about how I felt my family would be if they had real power. It was a novella that went nuts and the series was born. Currently there is two stories out, the new installment will be out leap day. The story is called Charlene’s Consortium.
Can the novels in the series stand alone?
Yes. Most of my books can be a standalone. But I would read everything to learn more about the relationships of each character.
Authors often draw from personal experiences or interests in their work. Is there a particular aspect of your life or passion that influenced the themes or characters in your novel?
I think I am a strong woman; it took time to find my voice, but I think that’s why I write such strong women. I want people to see that hard times don’t last forever.
When did you know you know you wanted to be a writer?
When I was in fifth grade teacher wrote a book. I didn’t know people of color wrote books. She introduced me to authors, and I knew that’s what I wanted to be.
You are a USA today Best-Selling author, does that put additional pressure on you to keep publishing books?
Yes and no. I try to write great stories, I don’t worry about the title as much. I want my readers to love the story as much as I love writing it.
How do you maintain creativity without potential burnout, or writer’s block or fatigue?
I have no idea. The stories just come to me. I write a lot, and when I get tired, I write a new story. I also take the last two months of the year off. (I usually write but there is no pressure in getting it done.)
Many authors have unique writing rituals or habits. Could you describe your writing process? How do you get into the right mindset to bring your stories to life?
I just need a coke, and trap music and I can write all day. The issue is I have eight kids and they all need something, so finding the time is the hard part.
Writing styles can evolve over time. How do you think your writing has changed or developed since your first novel, and what lessons have you learned along the way?
People say they love my first novel, at the time I thought it was great, now not so much. I think character development is better. I think things out more and let the character move more on paper. I also don’t limit myself on word count, that was a big deal for a long time.
Writing a novel requires consistency and dedication. What keeps you motivated to stay on track with your writing goals, especially during challenging moments?
Writing is the only thing in life I can control. There I am God. So, I rule my universe, within reason. I enjoy going into my little world.
What are your thoughts on traditional publishing vs self-publishing? Would I love a million-dollar contract? Very much so. But do I love the freedom of how I write now?
Absolutely. I don’t really have an opinion one way or the other. If it were in the stars to get a great contract, then I would go that way. If I made a million doing my own thing, that’s great too. But I don’t judge the roads people travel.
What advice can you give upcoming writers when they start to doubt themselves and their abilities. What strategies do you use to keep the momentum and creative flow moving?
Write what you know. You may not know dragons, but you and your reader can learn them together. Always learn about the craft. Find true friends in this industry. Learn from every failure, because those pave the way to success. Read reviews but don’t take them personal. You learn from what people like as well as what people dislike. Carve your story out of what is known and what you love.
Thank you to Mariah for taking the time to answer my questions. It was a pleasure working with her and reading her responses. I look forward to reading her new release.
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