Frequently Asked Questions

How long have you been a writer? Five years. I’ve wanted to be a writer longer than that, but I only started taking classes to improve my writing a few years ago. So far, I’ve been writing short stories and working on a few novels.
How were you able to improve your writing skills? I bit the bullet and started investing in myself by taking writing classes. However, I also started reading books regarding writing as well as grammar. Punctuation isn’t a strong suit of mine, so I use my reference books frequently. But Grammarly helps a lot!
Are there any classes or instructors you would recommend for people who want to become writers? Since I was in my early twenties, I knew I wanted to write a novel that would turn into a series, but I didn’t know where or how to improve myself. I ended up becoming friends with someone who has editing experience and who also took writing courses. From her, I was able to start taking classes on Litreactor.com—they are no longer in business. From there, I met the instructor and writer Richard Thomas and began taking his virtual courses regularly. Here is a link to his website – https://storyvilleonline.com. I am also a member of Autocrit. Autocrit offers a variety of writing classes featuring different genres as well as group events to help build camaraderie among writers. I’ve taken many courses from them, including Nightmare, Romance, Paranormal Romance, and Folklore. Once you pay for the class, you have it forever, so I often revisit the content. They also have software that will analyze a story you’ve written and grade it, telling you what areas you may need help on. I personally run all my stories through it to ensure I bring my A game to each one.
Are classes worth the money? YES! My writing skills improved dramatically and now I can review a story or a novel and dissect the techniques that worked or didn’t work, as well as aspects in my own writing.
What’s your favorite genre? Paranormal urban fantasy and paranormal romance are number one in my book. However, I also enjoy a good thriller, mystery, and horror.
What made you interested in writing paranormal urban fantasy? I am a sucker for the paranormal world. Growing up, I was a Buffy the Vampire and Supernatural fan. Personally, I think those were the best shows ever created. Being heavily influenced by Buffy, I found myself always gravitating toward paranormal urban fantasy, especially the romance novels. I think at some point everyone was either TeamAngel or TeamSpuffy. I was TeamSpuffy. After reading Jeaniene Frost’s Halfway to the Grave and really connecting with her characters, I couldn’t help but think: If she can write a book like this, maybe I can too! Since I had to wait for the other books in her Night Huntress series to be written, I started reading Patricia Briggs’ Mercy Thompson and Alpha and Omega Series. I loved them just as much. When I read those books, I can’t help but feel at home. This was the genre I was meant to write.
Who are your favorite authors? Jeaniene Frost (The Night Huntress series), Patricia Briggs (Mercy Thompson series & Alpha and Omega), Charlaine Harris (Sookie Stackhouse series), and Christopher Golden (he wrote a lot of the Buffy books I read growing up).