1. What made me decide to sit down and actually write a book? 

I had just quit the third job I’d had in two years. I couldn’t help but think there was a reason I’d encountered so many ‘interesting’ people in my career. While enjoying my new free time, shows like The Office and Parks and Recreation also contributed to my desire to write about my life. I saw the characters on those shows and thought I’ve worked with and for people way more ‘colourful‘ or unbelievable than them. I also felt like it would be therapeutic to sit down and write about my experiences.  

2. How long did it take to write the Fed Up!? 

I wrote the book backward, meaning I wrote the last chapter first. All of the characters’ personalities and emotions were still fresh and very raw. I was able to write the last chapter of the book in about a week and a half. So much emotion poured out of me as I typed away I could feel my anxiety creep up when certain memories were relived. So much so, I decided to take a few weeks off and let my emotions settle down. Once I got past the feelings of hurt and anger I was able to complete the first draft of the book in six weeks.  

3. What do you owe the real people upon whom you base your characters? 

A round of drinks. Just kidding. Most of the characters in my book I hope to never encounter again, but if I were to run into them, I’d thank them. Thank them for giving me the stories to tell others and make people laugh. Also, for helping me develop a tough skin. As I was working with these people I couldn’t believe some of the things that were said and done to be me on a daily basis, but when I look back I can’t help but laugh.  

4. How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have? 

Whenever I get an idea of interest I start writing. I have about four or five short story/novels in the works ranging from modern Biblically based short stories to romance fiction (experiences taken from my own life, yet fiction). 

5. How did publishing your first book change your process of writing? 

Being a self-published author has given me a new appreciation for the entire writing process. Writers who are blessed to have agents and marketing teams really only have to concentrate on the writing itself. Self-publishing authors have to be and do everything for themselves. It took a lot of guts to put my story out there, to begin with, but having to talk and pretty much ‘brag’ about writing a novel was very overwhelming but rewarding. When I saw how people react to my work it motivated me to put myself out there even more.  

6. Where do your ideas come from? 

Most, if not all of, my ideas come from my life experiences. When I wrote my second novel, Illusion A Love Story, I took bits and pieces of things I’d experienced in previous romantic relationships and tied them together in a fictional story.   

7. What is the hardest thing about writing? 

Staying focused. I have to set weekly goals for myself in order to stay on track. It’s easy to get sidetracked when you don’t have anyone breathing down your neck to meet a deadline.