With so many authors out there and so many exciting works of literature, I find that it’s nice when there is an opportunity to get to know an author a little better. This blog is intended to provide a way to get to know more about me as a writer. 

I was invited on this blog tour by author, Terri Leidich. Over the last year, I have had a wonderful working relationship with Terri via email and phone. I recently had the opportunity to meet her at a Book Award Ceremony in New York, and she is just as lovely and personable in person as she is in cyberspace.

Terri Leidich

Terri is a writer and entrepreneur who writes inspirational stories that will touch any reader’s heart.   Please check out her website here: http://terriannleidich.wordpress.com//

Back to the blog. The purpose is to ultimately provide readers with a little more insight to who we are as authors and to share the platform with a couple of peers, so here goes:

1.  What am I working on?

I am currently working on my second novel and enjoying every bit of the process. Writing allows me to completely absorb myself in my craft and to explore myself and my thoughts. It’s no secret that writing is my passion and if given the opportunity, I could write all day. The unfortunate reality is that time doesn’t allow me to write when I want and I can sometimes go days without writing anything of substance.  

My writing is not limited to my novels. I have kept a journal since I was a child and I still journal as an adult.  Writing is enjoyable for me and I also write short stories or poems to get my creativity flowing.

2. How does my work differ from others in its genre?

I’m not sure who came up with these questions but I will give it the old college try.  My work is inspirational, funny, true-to-life and mature. My characters are based on real life problems and real life triumphs. It’s fiction that makes you think, believe and hope for something better in yourself and others around you.  I am of the mind that we all have something to learn and overcome and there’s no better way to victory than recognizing our shortcomings and facing them head on. That’s what my novels represent – wonderfully flawed people trying to make the best of their circumstances. Much like real life.

3.  Why do I write what I do?

I’ve always mused that if I hadn’t gone to law school, I probably would have gone to medical school and studied psychology. People fascinate me. I am intrigued by actions, reactions and the reasons for both. I am a people-watcher and writing about things I observe allows me to unleash my inner psychologist and work out my characters’ problems. Sometimes to resolution, sometimes not, and regardless of the outcome, the process is highly enjoyable.

4.  How does my writing process work?

Hmmm, usually starts with a cup of coffee. I am a morning person so my creative juices flow best in the early morning with a java jolt. The next part of my process depends on what I’m writing and my mood. I don’t have a set process I just start writing and go from there.

I appreciate your time and interest up to this point. Hopefully I have fulfilled the purpose. Now, I will introduce you to two amazing authors who will follow this tour with their own stories. Be sure to check out their websites and blogs as well.

Kaycie Hughlett, MA, LMHC

Kayce Stevens Hughlett is a published author, long-time blogger, and contributor to several collections and online publications. Her 2012 non-fiction book, As I Lay Pondering: daily invitations to live a transformed life, is a lyrical and lucid treasure that invites readers to new awakenings throughout the year. Currently, knee-deep in the publication process for her debut novel, Blue, Kayce is a self-proclaimed artist of being alive. In her roles as writer, speaker, lifestyle coach, and ponderer extraordinaire, she invites individuals and groups to playfully and fearlessly cross thresholds toward authentic living. Learn more at www.kaycehughlett.com.

LaDonna M. Cook

LaDonna M. Cook is an Author, Writer, Poet, Motivational Speaker and Mother of Landon and Lathan Cook. Born in Mississippi and now lives in GA. She is a Program Coordinator at Goodwill Industries and assists those with disabilities to seek, find, and get competitive employment. She published her first poem in an anthology called: Whispers with The League of American Poets in 2007. In 2010 she self published her first book Expressions of the Mind, Body & Soul. She received a Certificate of Congratulation from Congressman Bennie Thompson 2nd district of MS. She was inducted Who's Who in Black Mississippi in 2012. In 2013 she released her 2nd book Until Tomorrow Comes. Also in Nov. 2013 with her dedication to the youth she launched her first youth for Christ Conference, called Planting Positive Seeds, to help motivate, encourage, and empower the youth. In 2014 she is featured in an Anthology: The Gospel According to Poetry and Sibella Women's Poetry Magazine for entire year of 2014. Until Tomorrow Comes was awarded Honorable Mention in the 2014 Paris Book Festival and the DJ Gatsby Book Club Literary Award in Poetry.  Find LaDonna at http://www.ladonnamariebooks.com/