When did you know writing was for you?
I’ve always loved writing, but mostly used my stories and poetry as personal expression to help work through what was going on in my life and held them to be private. It wasn’t until a few years ago when I made a goal to work on my follow through that I was going to put my focus to writing and actually completing a novel. It was one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had and I’ve been hooked ever since.
How would you describe your books?
Eek! That is such an open ended question. I’m hoping they’re a little escape, each of them into a world that holds its own magic and beauty, in both setting and characters. That’s what I think of the books I love. So I hope mine are the same. Everything I write has an element of the fantastic, whether that’s sci-fi, fantasy or paranormal because those are the worlds I love to spend the most time in.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
Editing, hands down. It’s my least favorite part. Writing is creating, learning, and discovering. Editing feels more like work.
What are your favorite genres to read?
Sci-fi, fantasy, paranormal. But really anything that is showing me things I haven’t seen before.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?
I think the overreaching arc for this story is how perception makes the world you live in and how a change of it can change your world entirely.
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?
I think most authors wouldn’t be able to reach 90% of their readers without it and may never have gotten the courage to write or reach for publication without the resources social media provides. I think it’s essential.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
Find a good critique group or beta readers who will give honest feedback. Take it to heart and figure out how to improve your writing based on their responses. And get a Twitter account. It’s the greatest tool out there to help you connect with other writers.
My blog: http://www.analaskangirl.blogspot.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/MonicaEmme
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/#!/emmeandemme
Buy the Book!
Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/Children-Gods-Chosen-Novel-ebook/dp/B006PZFWQ6/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_t_1
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/117347
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5373470.Monica_Millard
Thanks for having me, Samantha!
Fantastic interview, Monica! You are absolutely right – editing is work, and betas are invaluable. (I have a very talented one. I’m lucky!!) 😉 I still don’t think I’m using Twitter to it’s full capacity though. You’ll have to give me pointers on that.
Thanks Jolyn! I have a pretty amazing beta also! I’d be happy to give you pointers on how to utilize twitter… though lately I’ve been neglecting my beloved social media.