When did you know writing was for you?
It hit me like a handful of glitter in the third grade. My awesome teacher brought in these books covered in pretty wallpaper every Friday. They were blank inside and we were expected to fill them with brilliance. Most kids hated Fridays – I loved them!
How would you describe your books?
A girl’s night movie in written form. You bring the chocolates, I’ll bring the wine!
Why was Marriage Matters a book you wanted to write?
Marriage Matters is a story about three women – mother, daughter, grandmother – who get engaged at the same time and decide to share a wedding. More than that, it’s about the relationships between the three generations of women and the men they love. I wanted to write it because I think that love at all ages and stages is fascinating.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
Getting emotionally attached! In Marriage Matters, June is by far my favorite character. She’s the feisty, 72-yr. old grandmother who rocks a pair of stilettos. Her heart is as big as the one that lights up on the Eiffel Tower in Sleepless in Seattle. (That happens, right? Or am I making that up?) Anyway, she is an absolute delight of a character and the hardest part about writing is eventually, letting characters like June go.
What are your favorite genres to read?
Contemporary! I remember reading Bridget Jones’ Diary and being like, “Whaaaa? You’re allowed to write like that?” Thus, it began.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?
Joy! I hope that my readers will find the love stories in Marriage Matters, as well as the relationship between the mother, daughter and grandmother, fun and heartfelt.
I am getting married myself this year! What is some advice you have for brides-to-be?
That’s awesome, congratulations!! Advice for brides-to-be: Wear comfortable shoes, take lots of pictures and remember: Your wedding is a celebration of your love! Have fun and enjoy the day.
What is your favorite wedding show to watch? I love Say Yes to the Dress and Four Weddings!
The Bachelor! I know, I know. That’s not technically a wedding show but I think it counts. In Marriage Matters, there are all sorts of nods to The Bachelor, including a very sweet rose ceremony of sorts.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?
Social media rocks. I love the ability to connect with my readers in such a chatty, fun fashion. You can find me on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/cynthiaellingsen and Twitter at https://twitter.com/CynEllingsen
Come say hi!
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
Fall in love with the art form. Read in the genre you write for. Spend time with your characters. Spend time on the page. Most of all, keep writing! That’s what it’s all about.
