INTERVIEW
Is There a Message in Your Novel That You Want Readers to Grasp?
"Red Roses" beautifully captures the essence of friendship, self-discovery, and the transformative power of adventure. Through the journey of four girlfriends who, the book conveys the profound message that life is a melting pot of our choices and connections. It emphasizes that no matter how unexpected or challenging the paths we take, it is the bonds we share and the courage to embrace change that truly shape our destinies. "Red Roses" is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the extraordinary possibilities that lie beyond our comfort zones.
Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Writing emotional scenes has its own unique challenges. They require a delicate balance of authenticity, empathy, and restraint. Capturing the depth of a character’s emotions demands a nuanced understanding of human psychology and the ability to convey complex feelings through words. Overwriting can lead to melodrama, while underplaying emotions. This could make a scene feel flat and disconnected. It's important to create a genuine connection with the reader by showing rather than telling, using dialogue, body language, and inner thoughts to illustrate emotions. Maintaining the emotional pacing and ensuring that the intensity of the scene aligns with the overall narrative arc is crucial. My goal is to evoke a visceral response from the reader, making them feel the characters' joys, sorrows, and everything in between, without breaking the experience of the story.
How many books have you written and which is your favorite?
I have written four books. However, "Broken Petals" is my favorite. It birthed the series, introducing us to unforgettable characters and experiences. My joy in writing these characters came through, landing it as a finalist for the Best Book Award.
If you had the chance to cast your main character from Hollywood today, who would you pick and why?
I would love for Maya Rudolph to play Brooklyn Monti because she embodies a remarkable range of qualities that perfectly align with Brooklyn's character. Maya's talent for seamlessly shifting between comedy and drama allows her to capture the humor and complexity that define Brooklyn's journey. Her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her roles ensures that Brooklyn's serious struggles, particularly with Huntington's disease, are portrayed with the necessary gravitas and sensitivity. Moreover, Maya's vibrant personality and dynamic presence would infuse Brooklyn with a unique charm, making her a relatable and multifaceted protagonist that audiences can connect with on multiple levels.
I would choose Eva Mendes to play Iris because she embodies the feisty, quick-witted, honest, and no-nonsense qualities that define Iris's character. Eva's fiery spirit and confident demeanor would bring Iris's strong personality to life, capturing her ability to stand her ground and speak her mind. Her sharp wit and natural charisma make her the perfect fit for a character that is both straightforward and unafraid to challenge the status quo. Eva's authenticity and depth as an actress would ensure that Iris's honesty and resilience shine through, making her a compelling and relatable character that audiences will love.
When did you begin writing?
My journey is quite an amusing story. I began writing at the age of sixteen. My mom encouraged me to do so because, according to her, I had become a drama queen. She believed that creative writing, combined with my love for reading books, would help me redirect my dramatic outbursts in more productive ways. Well, she was right.
How long did it take to complete your first book?
It took me a year to finish my first book because I decided to rewrite it when I realized that the main focus was not romance but the journey of self-discovery.
Did you have an author who inspired you to become a writer?
Sidney Sheldon's storytelling style has profoundly influenced my writing. His ability to weave intricate plots with compelling characters and unexpected twists has inspired me to create a story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Sheldon's knack for blending suspense with deep emotional arcs has guided me in developing rich, multi-dimensional characters whose lives and relationships are as captivating as the journeys they embark upon. His influence is evident in my dedication to pacing and my commitment to delivering a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, much like the unforgettable tales Sheldon himself has penned.
What is your favorite part of the writing process?
The second draft is my favorite part of the process. The story is written. Now comes the fun of making it beautiful.
Describe your latest book in 4 words.
Vibrant, Lineage, Passionate, Classic
Can you share a little bit about your current work or what is in the future for your writing?
I'm presently working on the final book in the Broken Petals series. It has been quite challenging because my main character has to confront her greatest fear. After years of avoidance, she must confront it, and she will either grow from the experience or fall apart.
1 Comments
Thank you for the insightful interview. I wish you all the best and look forward to the possibility of future collaboration.
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