Q. Can you share the inspiration behind the Golden Years Glitch? Specifically how you came up with names and the storylines?
A. Now, I must admit this was a bit of a revenge novel. Some of what happened to Andi, the protagonist, occurred in my life. I found out that my partner of many years was cheating on me when he mistakenly and openly posted a conversation with his mistress on Facebook. This was not the story I intended to write, but this was how it involved. I named my characters a derivation of my friend’s names, along with a combination of their personality traits.
Follow-up: I never saw that coming! OMG that would have been brutal!
Q. Do you think this will become a series or do you think you will write another novel about the other ladies?
A. I have started the second novel with Melanie, one of the ladies from The Golden Years Glitch. Recently widowed, Melanie buys an old convent and restores it to a rental property for older single women. They show the reader how exciting life can be, even as septuagenarians.
Follow-up: I can’t wait to read this one! Looking forward to it.
Q. 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?
A. Not only did the concept of the story happen to me, but each of the characters has a little bit of me in them. Writing in the first person is hard without some of you pouring into it. There were things in the story that Andi did regarding her cheating husband that I wished I had done! She was more revengeful than I had been.
Follow-up: Even though she was revengeful, did Jed even realize? Andi was in control but I did find it hard when she kept letting him back in knowing he cheated with several women.
Q. 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?
A. Let it flow! I have a notebook on me at all times, wherever I am. I typically write very early in the morning. I like the dark and quiet when I write.
Follow-up: Great advice. I am surprise you write in the dark! Is this because there is less sensory distraction?
Q. Writing a novel requires consistency and dedication. What keeps you motivated to stay on track with your writing goals, especially during challenging moments?
A. My editor! She treated my writing as if it were homework and gave me very stringent chapter deadlines
Q. The publishing industry is dynamic and constantly changing. Can you share your experience navigating the process of getting your novel published and any advice for aspiring authors in today’s market?
A. It was easier to write the novel than the steps you must take after you are completed. The hunt for an agent and publisher is exhausting and depressing. Do your research, look for agents that are looking specifically for your genre, and make sure it is the right fit for your story. I found my agent by looking at the acknowledgements in books that I personally enjoyed. The author thanked the agent for appreciating her unique style and mentioned that the “mature woman” market is often overlooked. Stay strong and never, never give up! Warmest wishes on your journey.
Follow-up: Such great advice! Thank you for taking the time to respond to my questions. I really enjoyed your novel and will be looking for the next story.
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