Part 20 (1/2)

Additionally, contemporary writers were the first ones to inspire me to follow my dreams. I vividly remember that the first time I read Disappearing Acts, I was in absolute, undeniable awe. I discovered characters that looked like me, talked like me, acted like me, and I savored each and every word like a fine gourmet dinner. I felt the characters' pain, triumphs and joy because I could relate. I didn't want that novel to end. It was with true sadness that I read the last page. From that point it was on; I devoured any African American fiction I could get my hands on; I was addicted. To this day, I'm still addicted.

If I want to be really deep and philosophical for a few days, I read Toni Morrison, Alice Walker or Gloria Naylor. They always elevate my spirit and mind to a higher plane. Their words soothe my soul with their wisdom and insight. I've enjoyed the cla.s.sics as well with such writers as Zora Neale Hurston, Ralph Ellison and James Baldwin.

Additionally, I adore Stephen King and Dean Koontz because I'm a big supernatural/horror fan.

Q. Describe your writing style.

A. (LOL) There is no name or definition to define my writing style; it's pretty unorthodox. To put it simply, I go with the flow. I come up with a general story line in my head, and then I simply sit down in front of my PC and start typing. I don't believe in outlines, or at least I can't function in a writing environment with one.

When I'm writing, I have no idea what my beginning, middle or ending is. However, I know my characters like the back of my hand. I could tell you what they got for their twelfth birthdays down to what they ate for lunch two weeks ago. In writing, I let my characters talk to me and dictate their story. Sometimes we fight about how a certain scene should play out, but in the long run, they win. Yes, it's weird, but true.

Q.What type of atmosphere do you require to write?

A. When I really get into a writing project, it doesn't matter what type of atmosphere I surround myself with. The words will flow naturally.

A lot of times I mentally write my chapters when I'm driving. I can drive, zone out mentally (without causing an accident) and come up with great dialogue and an additional chapter or two. When I arrive home, I swiftly run to my PC and simply type it up before I forget. So it's like I'm writing down what I saw at a movie or play, with great detail included.

If I had to name a preference, I prefer a somewhat quiet, relaxing, peaceful atmosphere.

Q. How long did it take you to complete Loose Ends?

A. I'll be the first to admit, I'm not the most disciplined writer; however, I'm working on it. I'm not going to lie (LOL). Sometimes I can be lazy, and no matter how loudly my characters are calling me back to my PC to bring their story to fruition, sleep is screaming louder and there's a bed with my name written on it.

But, in my defense, until recently I was employed full-time in communications, and I'm a wife and mother of two children who keep me running ragged. However, I digress. To answer your question, it took me approximately eight months to complete Loose Ends.

Q. What were the happiest moments you have experienced while writing your latest book?

A. My happiest moments were just seeing the story line come together and unfold before my eyes. Each new page, each new chapter brought revelations my way. Loose Ends is the follow-up or continuation to my first novel, The Ties That Bind. So writing Loose Ends was like welcoming long-lost friends back into the fold. It felt exhilarating and right and good. Writing Loose Ends was like being reunited with family that I hadn't seen in a while. I enjoyed having Brice, Mia, Kree and Christian back in my life again.

The saddest moment was when I wrote the last sentence; I was depressed for weeks.

Q.What has been the most gratifying part of being an author?

A. Hands down, the most gratifying part of being an author has been meeting and greeting new and interesting readers who are embracing my stories and e-mailing me and writing me and meeting me at signings and telling me how much they've enjoyed my books! We talk about my characters like they are old friends. No matter how many times I've experienced that, it always makes my day. Puts a big Kool-Aid smile on my face (LOL).

Their (the readers') feedback and reactions totally validates that my craft is a gift from G.o.d! If I can touch a number of people with my stories or even if I only entertain them and they don't walk away with a life lesson, then I've still done my job.

As you know, my stories are typically relations.h.i.+p based, very drama filled, with an ounce of spice thrown in-well, maybe a pound of spice thrown in-and they usually cover a topical issue that is prevalent in today's society. Believe me, I have so many characters screaming inside my head, waiting to tell their story, that I feel like the lady from the movie Sybil (LOL). So, bottom line, I pray and claim that my readers.h.i.+p base will continue to grow and I'll have wonderful opportunities to meet many more fans.