Category Archives: WOTR Event

Author Spotlight, WOTR Event

#WOTR23 #attendingauthor #spotlight – Tabetha Waite

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Tabetha Waite

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Tabetha Waite – I write romance with adventure and heart! I’m a small town girl from Missouri who had big dreams of writing. Romance became my first love in high school when I started reading Harlequin and the timeless Gothics. I published my first book in 2016 and since then, have become a multi-award winning hybrid author with more than 30 published novels and novellas between indie and various small press publishers.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

Generally the very last one! You feel like you are building all the anticipation until the last one and you want it to be worth the wait for the reader, while enjoying all the characters until then.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

Always expect the unexpected! I like to add twists!

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Don’t take the fun out of what you love. When you do, it becomes a chore, and not the enjoyment that you found at the beginning.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

I work a full time job, so I generally spend about 2-3 hrs a day after supper in my office. And on a weekend I don’t have to go anywhere, I am usually there. I don’t watch much TV anymore!

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

I will always love Orion and Athena. They were the couple from “Why the Earl is After the Girl,” the first book I got published.

If any of your books were to be made into a movie, who are the celebrities that would star in it? What book and who?

I honestly don’t even think about that. lol. I just strive to make my readers happy. But if I made a bestseller list, that would be pretty cool!

What is your definition of success?

Having someone tell me that they liked my stories. It’s as simple as that. If I made someone smile and brightened their day, then I did my job as a storyteller.

Do you have anything you want to share that didn’t fit on one of these questions?

Other than writing, I like to collect dolls! Most people think it’s creepy, but if there are any of my fellow peeps out there, I’d love to hear from you! Oh, and I’m a BIG Beauty and the Beast fan!

What are your social links?

https://www.facebook.com/TotallyTabetha/

http://www.twitter.com/@TotallyTabetha

http://www.instagram.com/tabethawaite

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15485251.Tabetha_Waite

https://www.bookbub.com/profile/tabetha-waite

@tabethawaite

http://www.linkedin.com/tabethawaite

Reader Group –
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2316431591948667

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/%22Tabetha%20Waite%22?Ntk=P_key_Contributor_List&Ns=P_Sales_Rank&Ntx=mode+matchall

https://www.kobo.com/us/en/search?query=Tabetha%20Waite&fcsearchfield=Author

https://itunes.apple.com/us/author/tabetha-waite/id1134400117?mt=11

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2023?

They are available starting November 4th at Writersontheriver.com

$45 VIP sell out quickly – 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included.

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party.

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Author Spotlight, WOTR Event

#WOTR23 #attendingauthor #spotlight – Becca Jameson

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Becca Jameson

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Becca Jameson. I live in Houston, TX, with my husband, my son, and the crazy cat and dog! In my free time… Oh, wait, I don’t have free time! I write. I read. I edit. lol

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

The others after it.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I remember nothing. So, it could be fresh because I don’t have any idea what I did before. OR, it could be that I’m just repeating myself over and over. Shrug. No one has complained.

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Turn everything off and write in half hour increments.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

Five hours.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

It changes, but I think Lucy is my current favorite. No idea why. That book is raw and has stuck with me.

If any of your books were to be made into a movie, who are the celebrities that would star in it? What book and who?

Good golly I have no idea! Severed Dreams might be good. It’s a newer stand alone. A total mind fuck. No idea who would star in it.

What is your definition of success?

Loving what you do.

Do you have anything you want to share that didn’t fit on one of these questions?

I love my job. I’m so grateful I get to do this every day. I’d rather be writing than anything else.

What are your social links?

Goodreads: goodreads.com/beccajameson
Facebook profile: https://www.facebook.com/becca.jameson.18
Facebook Author page: https://www.facebook.com/beccajameson4
Facebook Fan Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BeccasBibliomaniacs/
website: http://beccajameson.com/
twitter: @beccajameson  or: https://twitter.com/beccajameson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/becca.jameson/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/beccajameson1/
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/becca-jameson
Newsletter: http://www.beccajameson.com/newsletter-sign-up

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

Amazon Author page: amazon.com/author/beccajameson


https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/becca%20jameson


https://www.kobo.com/us/en/search?query=becca+jameson


https://www.audible.com/author/Becca-Jameson/B007CBQSP6?ref=a_search_c3_lAuthor_1_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=QDK67MNM36JM5N0DJ0EP

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2023?

They are available starting November 4th at Writersontheriver.com

$45 VIP sell out quickly – 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included.

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party.

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Author Spotlight, WOTR Event

#WOTR23 #attendingauthor #spotlight – Melissa Haag/ MJ Haag

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Melissa Haag

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

My name is Melissa, and I think my characters lead more interesting lives than I do. lol

I’m a mom of three, author of 50+ (I think) titles, a proudly independent business woman, habitual snacker, and connoisseur of desserts. I love being happy and write stories laced with humor. I’m a social introvert who enjoys a good thunderstorm and is currently in love with k-dramas on Viki.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

Writing a book is like going on the best date of your life. It’s a little nerve-racking at the start, but once you get going, it’s amazing and fun. And you never want it to end. Ever. But it always has to. So, I’d say the final books in any series are the hardest. It’s never easy to find a satisfying way to say goodbye.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

For me, it’s all about the characters and their “flaws.” It’s not enough to write someone in an abusive relationship desperate to know what healthy love feels like. I’m also going to give her a medical condition that causes inopportune fainting, a low sex drive but a strong desire for children, and stick her with an awkward co-dependant roommate situation. (Demon Discord under my MJ Haag pen name)

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

There’s a difference between learning from your peers by watching what they do and comparing yourself to others. The former is smart; the latter will erode your self-confidence.

If you find yourself checking your social media outlets every five minutes, it’s time for a break. Boundaries create healthy relationships…especially the ones authors have with social media. Don’t let it own you.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

3-4 hours on actual words. (But I tend to work a full 8-9 hours since writing is only 40% of an author’s job.)

 If any of your books were to be made into a movie, who are the celebrities that would star in it? What book and who?

Oh boy…this is a tough one. I have over 50+ books between my pen names.

But, if I had to pick one character, it would be Sam from the Judgment of the Six series (by Melissa Haag). He’s an older wolf shifter and the guardian of one of the MCs. When I wrote him, I absolutely pictured him as Sam Elliott.

What is your definition of success?

Waking up happy.

Time is precious, and the number of days we have is finite. I’m trying to slow down and find comfort, wonder, and humor in each moment. If I can wake up happy, it means I did all the right things the day before and plan to do all the right things again today.

What are your social links?

https://melissahaag.com/about

https://mjhaag.melissahaag.com/about

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

https://melissahaag.com

https://mjhaag.melissahaag.com

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2023?

They are available starting November 4th at Writersontheriver.com

$45 VIP sell out quickly – 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included.

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party.

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Author Spotlight, WOTR Event

#WOTR23 #attendingauthor #spotlight – Audrey Simmons

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Audrey Simmons

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Hi my name is Audrey. I write YA high fantasy and dystopian scifi (always with a thread of romance) and under a pen name I’ll be publishing steamy fantasy romance. I really like to focus on the characters and how they’re dealing with the chaos of their lives. The more angst the better. I also love world building and creating interesting magic systems. When I’m not writing, I’m making art, playing games, or reading.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

I only have one book out, the first in a series, and I’m working on the second at the moment. Right now the second one definitely feels harder but the first one took so much more time because not only was I writing the story but I was building the world and figuring out the characters.

 Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Take breaks both from writing and social media. It can be easy to fall prey to comparing yourself to others. Everyone is at their own place in their writing journey so it’s best to compare yourself only to yourself.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

I try to spend at least an hour writing every day but some days I write the whole day. Though in the past I was more of a sporadic writer.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

My favorite right now is one from a steamy series that will be under a pen name so I’ll talk about one from Child of the Moon instead. Hemi is my favorite character in that series. He’s just a lot of fun and very easy going. He keeps his head on in stressful situations and always has his friends backs.

What is your definition of success?

Success was publishing a book and I’ve done that. Now I guess success will be finishing the series and getting it out there.

Do you have anything you want to share that didn’t fit on one of these questions?

I’m really excited for the chance to be at Writers on the River ^_^ I’ve been a table buddy the past two events and it’s a blast.

What are your social links?

Twitter: twitter.com/AuthorAudreyS

Amazon author page: amazon.com/Audrey-Simmons/e/B09W5XSG55

Facebook: facebook.com/authorAudreySimmons/

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2023?

They are available starting November 4th at Writersontheriver.com

$45 VIP sell out quickly – 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included.

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party.

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Author Spotlight, WOTR Event

#WOTR23 #attendingauthor #Spotlight -Maggie Adams

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Maggie Adams

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Most people call me Mags, so when I was in the market for my logo, I went with lips because I talk a lot, and my signature Mags. My kids thought it was perfect!

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

Other after, definitely! I have to go back and reference my previous dialogues, etc. in fact, in Something’s Gotta Give, I had to copy an entire scene from the previous book, Leather and Lace, only do it from Sggs heroines perspective. That was tough.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

Everyone is different, so each character has to have a true personality. The key is to keep true to that person while introducing new characters into the story. I love quirky sub characters so I use them quite a bit. And then they sometimes become main characters with their own books. I did this with Zoe from Forged in Fire. She became a main character in my PNR series, Legends, Kermode. And Minx was a stand-alone novel until fans wanted to know more about Miranda’s friends. Now it’s a series, Hell on Heels.

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

I love music, so it’s an integral part of my writing. Exercising let’s my mind wander, coupled with music and I come up with plots or dialogue. When Im writing, I play instrumental music so words don’t interrupt the voices in my head. Lol

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

I usually get an hour or so every evening, but my main writing occurs on the weekends. It’s not ideal, but I’m hoping to retire and spend all my time writing.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

There are actually two characters that are dear to my heart – Dixie, from Whistlin’ Dixie, was modeled after my daughter, she’s even on the cover. And in Minx, Miranda is me. With the exception of the divorce, the scenes are pretty well scenes from my life. Oh and hubby isn’t a billionaire, but he’s definitely one in a billion!

If any of your books were to be made into a movie, who are the celebrities that would star in it? What book and who?

I think Minx would make a great movie with Melissa McCarthy as Miranda and Tom Selleck as Reese. Of course, her buddies would star in the sequels!

What is your definition of success?

Everyone has bills, wishes, and dreams, but truly, I feel I’m living the dream. I have a loving husband who is also my best friend, my children and grandchildren are my sunshine, and I’m lucky enough to have time to make my dream of writing come true. Added to that, I’ve made so many friends through my books. I’ve found my tribe!

Do you have anything you want to share that didn’t fit on one of these questions?

I am truly blessed to be able to do what I love and meet all the wonderful book lovers at events.

What are your social links?

For those that may not know me or my work… Why the hell not? I’m all over the place! lol Here’s the 411 on me. Oh, and I’m not above handing out free books to join my newsletter!
https://twitter.com/AuthrMaggieAdms
https://www.pinterest.com/maggiesminxes/
https://www.instagram.com/maggieadamsbooks/
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/maggie+adams
https://www.amazon.com/author/maggieadams
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9867300.Maggie_Adams
http://www.maggieadamsbooks.com
https://www.facebook.com/maggieadamsbooks
https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggie-adams-006a8b142/
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/maggie-adams

www.tiktok.com/@maggieadamsbooks

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

https://www.amazon.com/author/maggieadams
Buy direct – www.maggieadamsbooks.com

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2023?

They are available starting November 4th at Writersontheriver.com

$45 VIP sell out quickly – 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included.

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party.

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Author Spotlight, WOTR Event

#WOTR23 #attendingauthor #Spotlight – Cheryl Brooks

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Image for Cheryl Brooks, click to learn more.

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Cheryl Brooks
I’m a native of Louisville, Kentucky and a former critical care nurse who resides in rural Indiana with my husband, my youngest son (the eldest lives in California), one horse, two cats, and one dog. My published works include the Cat Star Chronicles series, the Cat Star Legacy series, the Cowboy Heaven series, the Unlikely Lovers series, and the Soul Survivors trilogy, along with several stand-alone novels, novellas, and short stories. My other interests include cooking, gardening, and keeping 30+ acres of land looking beautiful.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

The first book is easy because you have free rein to create any kind of world and characters you like. The subsequent books are a little harder because you have to maintain the continuity of the world you’ve created while coming up with new stories and characters.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

Different settings help, plus, each character speaks to you in a different way.

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Don’t expect it to be easy or lucrative. To be truly successful, you must devote the greater part of your life to writing and marketing, which is tough to do when there are other demands on your time.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

Not nearly as much as I used to when I was churning out a 90K book every three months. That pace nearly cost me my sanity. Nowadays, I’m lucky to write two hours a week, sometimes none if I’m busy with other things.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

I think Onca in Rebel is my favorite character. Of all the others I’ve included in my books, his character is the one who demanded that I write his story.

What is your definition of success?

To earn enough money with your writing to live comfortably without resorting to a day job would be a major achievement for any writer. Unfortunately, very few writers can reach that goal, much less maintain it. Most of us have to measure our success by the impact our writing has made on our readers. Several readers have told me that my books helped them through some very tough times, which, for me, is the best measure of success.

 What are your social links?

Website http://www.cherylbrooksonline.com/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.brooks.963
Facebook Author Page https://www.facebook.com/cherylbrooksauthor/
Twitter https://twitter.com/CherylCatMaster
Blog http://cherylbrooksauthor.blogspot.com/
Email cheryl.brooks52@yahoo.com
Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/752898.Cheryl_Brooks
BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/cheryl-brooks

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

All of my buy links are on my website: http://www.cherylbrooksonline.com/

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2023?

They are available starting November 4th at Writersontheriver.com

$45 VIP sell out quickly – 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included.

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party.

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Author Spotlight, WOTR Event

#WOTR23 #attendingauthor #spotlight – Sophia Paisley

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Sophia Paisley

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

I’m Sophia Paisley. I adore finding treasures for my little free library. I also enjoy annoying my family and finding unique places to vacation. My husband still won’t forgive me for having to sleep surrounded by camel dung. I’m not sorry.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

The books after the first one are always the hardest for me. I have a two-second memory and have to rely on spreadsheets to keep characters, locations, and facts organized. I also have to rely on my ability to remember to update them. I fail often.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I take cues from the characters. Every person is unique, and it’s the same for characters. I don’t hold them back.

 On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

I spend most of the day procrastinating. I have a mile long to-do list, so it’s easily done. And then I realize the characters are waiting for me (and I’m not allowed to play games until words are written). I get about three to four hours of writing in on a good day. One or two on a bad day. I don’t count editing time. That beast stands alone.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

London Reese from Tempted to Love. He is by far my favorite. His back story is deep and he’s driven. He’s the kind of man you’d purposely lock horns with just to get a reaction.

 What is your definition of success?

For me, success isn’t about money. Did I survive the day? Success. Did my family survive? More success. Did I put a smile on someone’s face? Success. Did I change someone’s outlook or distract them enough that they didn’t think about their problems for a few hours? Epic success. Money is good, too. It pays bills. As long as those are paid, I’d rather have the memories.

 What are your social links?

I’m horrible with social media. If you want to keep in touch, sign up for my monthly newsletter for an insider’s look into my work and life. There are also monthly giveaways. https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/t9s6o5

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

You can find links to all my books at https://www.sophiapaisley.com/

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2023?

They are available starting November 4th at Writersontheriver.com

$45 VIP sell out quickly – 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included.

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party.

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Author Spotlight, WOTR Event

#WOTR23 #attendingauthor #Spotlight – Cassandra Featherstone

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Cassandra Featherstone

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Hi! I’m Cassandra Featherstone, though most people call me Cass (or Muppet).

I wrote my first short story at 3–my mom still has it–and I’ve been writing ever since.

Before the pandemic, I worked at an indie bookstore as Director of Educational Service/B2B, but my whole department got torpedoed by May of 2020. I’d started dipping my toe into self-publishing when they laid us all off in March, but I put myself in the wrong categories!

Once I figured out I belonged in whychoose romance, I really worked hard to learn as much about self-publishing as I knew about trad pub from my decade in the biz. I’m STILL learning and growing, but I’ve been busy!

I have five solo series and two co-write series in progress as of right now. The solo series all fall into one universe, which I love, and so I have an infinite playground to work in.(Plus, a really ridiculous writing schedule over the next few years.)

My five cats, puppy, long suffering husband, and my college aged goblin all live in the sweet spot between the South and the Midwest with me.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

Mmm. My PA says that I always write slower until I ‘de-virginize’ the characters. (ha!)

So probably first book, because my FMC will get spicy with the different love interests one by one (sometimes more), and after they do, I can really ‘hear’ all of their voices in my head clearly.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

Oh, well. I’m a panster. I often haven’t a clue what’s coming next, so it’s ALL a surprise.

As for readers, I try to make sure I’m not just rubber stamping the same things over and over–whether characters, plots, traits, appearances, etc. No shade to people who do well with a formula or enjoy it at all! I’m just a girl who loves to have variety–hence whychoose 😉

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

First of all, learn about BUSINESS. You will make mistakes, but don’t let them be ones you have to suffer with FOREVER. Covers matter. Some form of editing (even betas, etc) matter. Marketing on anything free–FB, TT, IG, NL, etc–matter. Vet your helpers–find out about PAs, editors, cons, book boxes, anthology runners, arc team members as best you can before committing. Use contracts for these people and especially for co-writers, even your friends. You have to protect yourself and your work from fraud, scams, and people who will take advantage of you. Doing this stuff from the beginning will help your stress immeasurably.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

I work part-time still, but I write full time as well. (Sounds counterintuitive, but stay with me.)

That means on non-office work days, I write/do admin junk/do marketing at different points in the day for about two-four hours.

On office days, I aim for throughout the day, on breaks, and after I get home. (I work by daily word count on writing, which varies depending on how far ahead/behind I am.)

Also, I’m trying to get better at not working 24/7. WISH ME LUCK.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

Man, I am bad at choosing. All us whychoose people are.

Delilah (from the Codename series) was most like me when I was younger and got back into writing more seriously. She was my first published FMC and very near to my heart.

Jolene (Hollow series) is most like me now and she’s so much fun to write. She’s sassy, smart, a little damaged, funny, and does everything by seat of her pants. Jolene doesn’t have control of her life, per se, but she’s learned to ride the waves well. And she doesn’t take anyone’s BS anymore.

If any of your books were to be made into a movie, who are the celebrities that would star in it? What book and who?

I’m gonna go with the Hollow series because I think it’s got a good chance, but I’d prefer an HBO series. (Not Netflix they cancel everything.)

Jolene would be played by Zoey Deschanel
Teddy by Henry Cavill
Wolfie by Matt Later
Presley by Jared Padalecki
Doyle by Tom Hiddleston
Benjy by Donald Glover
Saoirse by Emma Watson

What is your definition of success?

I want to be able to go true full time as a writer and have readers adore my books.

Do you have anything you want to share that didn’t fit on one of these questions?

Don’t compare yourself or progress to others’. Stay on your path and do your thing. You’ll be happier for it.

What are your social links?

http://cfeatherstone.ctcin.bio/

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2023?

They are available starting November 4th at Writersontheriver.com

$45 VIP sell out quickly – 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included.

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party.

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Author Spotlight, WOTR Event

#WOTR23 #attendingauthor #Spotlight – Bria Quinlan

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Bria Quinlan

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

Hello! I’m Bria Quinlan *waves*

I write sweet contemp romance where our quirky heroines deal with surprising situations and YA issue books that are funny around the hot HS soccer team (I know this sounds vaguely familiar….but I swear I was a decade ahead of Ted Lasso!) I’m also constantly distracted by my “cowriter” Jack who thinks throwing his squeaker is the most important part of my work day.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

I love starting a new series. It’s the cleanest slate you can get with an already present core readership! Everything is possible. (Translation: I have not yet painted myself into a corner!)

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

YES! I’m writing two new series now and it’s so fun to try new things, create new dynamics, paint new worlds.

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Drink heavily. Joking, not even a drinker really.

I’d say to everyone: Find what lets you unplug and reenergize.

Walking in the woods is my go-to. It’s brings down my stress, allows me to get exercise, turns off the rest of the world while at the same time filling my creative well. And I absolutely leave my screens at home.

Find what works for you then guard it like it’s gold. I learned just walking in town isn’t it or walking with people didn’t do the trick. I do those things, but they’re not “me time” – protect your me-time.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

I’m a muller. I’ll make lists and doodle and go for walks and that all counts because without it there’s no words to put on the page. But I’m also a strong believer in not measuring my time any longer as it started to feel heavy. Some days I write a few words on a notecard for later. Other days I get up, forget to shower, and stop when I finally get hungry.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

My readers are going to say “Abby” — and I do absolutely love her. But for me, my YA heroines all hit my heart hard.

I don’t think they’ll be a year I stop thinking about them no matter how far away those books get.

If any of your books were to be made into a movie, who are the celebrities that would star in it? What book and who?

OOHHH I think my book that would translate the best (again, readers would say The Catching Kind, but thinking script work) would be Wreckless.

Bridget: Sadie Sink (I mean, come on! Right?)
Jake: Jacob Elrodi

Altho, in my head I’m always like “A younger version of…” bc it’s a little odd to think about younger folks that way. Also, the answer is always *always* Michiel Huisman

What is your definition of success?

Wow, has it changed.

As someone who was a full-time author for years, hit a list, nominated for awards, has a great agent, blah blah blah BUT STINKS AT MARKETING no one is going to stand up and say “You know who is super successful? Bria Quinlan.”

And now, with years under my belt, I’m absolutely okay with that.

Now I’m just kind of at the “I’d like to write books that bring me joy to create and become bedside rereads for people bringing them smiles and tears.:

That sounds schmaltzy, but there you have it.

Do you have anything you want to share that didn’t fit on one of these questions?

Only this: The thing that makes tough books, hard releases, bad sales quarters, silly genre drama, etc worth it are READERS!

Every time, every darn time I’m feeling down about a project it’s the most magical thing when a reader reaches out to tell me why they loved this book or that character. It’s gas in the creative tank because it reminds me why we do this and why I’ll keep doing it.

What are your social links?

https://briaquinlan.com

https://www.facebook.com/groups/505892340961303

https://twitter.com/bria.quinlan

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

https://www.amazon.com/Bria-Quinlan/e/B00D9URPWO
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/%22Bria%20Quinlan
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/search?query=bria+quinlan
https://www.audible.com/author/Bria-Quinlan/B00D9URPWO

I know you said audible, but I’m adding Chirp too bc it’s so much better a deal for both the reader and the author:
https://www.chirpbooks.com/authors/bria-quinlan-audiobooks

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2023?

They are available starting November 4th at Writersontheriver.com

$45 VIP sell out quickly – 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included.

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party.

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.

Author Spotlight, WOTR Event

#WOTR23 #attendingauthor #Spotlight – AD Ellis

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A.D. Ellis

Tell us your name and then a bit about yourself.

A.D. Ellis (and I write under a separate pen name of Dove Daniels). I’m a mom of two teens, a teacher/instructional coach of 24 years in the inner city of Indianapolis, IN, and an author. I love sweet red wine and laughing with friends, crocheting when I have time, writing, and reading. Naps are life, hot tea runs through my veins, and I love a crisp, cool fall day.

When you are writing a book, which is harder? The first book in the series or the others after it?

It just depends on the characters, but usually there are parts of a first book that are easier and parts of the subsequent ones that are easier.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

Due to the fact that all of my series to date focus on a different couple set in the same world, it’s easy to keep things fresh.

Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

Take breaks for time for YOU. If the words aren’t coming, do something different. READ A LOT. Write something else.

On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?

Approximately 90 minutes before school throughout the school year. Usually 2-3 hours on a Saturday or Sunday. Breaks from school often give me a bit more time to write.

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

That’s like asking me to pick a favorite child. A few of my favorites (and these are just a FEW!) are usually because of their backstory and/or their personality.
Jay in the Blueridge Junction Boys series.
Kota in Holly Hills Christmas.
Cooper in Adore.
Shaw in Julian & Shaw: On Cravenwood Block.
Ty in Hearts Afire.
But, truly, I love every main character (and some side characters!) for one reason or another.

 What are your social links?

All of my links can be found – https://www.adellisauthor.com/mylinks/

What are your buy links? (Provide links to your Amazon/iBook’s/Koko/etc Author Home Page if you have quite a few. Also include audible links if applicable.)

All of my links can be found – https://www.adellisauthor.com/mylinks/

Want tickets to Writers on the River #2023?

They are available starting November 4th at Writersontheriver.com

$45 VIP sell out quickly – 12-1 VIP hour, 1-4 General Admission time. You get a filled VIP bag and admission to the after party is included.

$25 Early Access – 12-1 VIP house, 1-4 General Admission time. You also get a filled VIP bag but NO admission to the after party.

$10 General Admission – 1-4 General Admission time. You can purchase a bag but it is not filled with VIP swag. There is no admission to the after party included.

$35 After party – 7-11 After Party with food and cash bar. Dj with a photobooth is also included in the fun.