CLP is happy to host Whitney Dineen, author of She Sins at Midnight, for the Fictionella Blog Tour today!
When did you know writing was for you?
I knew writing was the job for me when the first sentences of books would randomly pop into my head, books not yet written. Books I wanted to write.
Why was She Sins at Midnight a book you wanted to write?
I knew I wanted to write She Sins at Midnight the day I got an invitation to my high school class reunion. I debated whether I should go and whilst debating, Lila was born. My book is about not being where you think you should be in life, not realizing that everyone else is having the same feelings of insecurity that you are. It’s a book about life turning out the way it’s supposed to when it’s supposed to. Mostly it’s a book about realizing that the grass is never greener on the other side of the fence. And it’s funny, because when you’re going to have all kinds of life altering realizations, it’s imperative to laugh!
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
The hardest part of the writing process for me is being able to write when the inspiration hits. I have 2 little girls, ages 3 and 5, and their needs come first. That definitely lessens my writing flexibility. I wouldn’t change it for the world though. These little ladies are teaching me and gifting me with so much!
What are your favorite genres to read?
I love to read chick lit, spy novels, murder mysteries, psychological thrillers, medical mysteries, historical novels… You name it, I like to read it, as long as the plot is sound and the story entertaining. I like to write chick lit and young adult because I’m all about the journey and the happy ending.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?
I want the women who read my books to laugh and feel good about themselves. I want them to know that every single person on the planet feels like their life is lacking at times. Even Cindy Crawford wakes up some days and says, “Really, this is my life?” I want them to walk away from my books feeling like they’ve made new, lifelong friends.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?
I would say it’s very important, although I’m just learning my way. I’m pretty new to the game. I follow some of my favorite writers on Twitter and Facebook, which allows me to stay in touch with their sense of humor and drama in between books. I also keep up on when they have a new book out so I can preorder it and read it as soon as humanly possible.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
My advice to aspiring writers is to write. Don’t let anyone influence you negatively. If you have a story to tell, tell it. Don’t critique yourself until you’re done. Just write, write, write, write and write. You will have the time of your life!
