Welcome back, Tricia. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. I think there’s a piece of me in most of my point-of-view characters. To truly consider my characters’ fears I think of my own. Also, many of the same issues that these characters deal with are things I’ve walked through, such as a desire to find true love, questions about parenting, a desire to do something greater with my life, etc. The characters can be men, women, (even children), but to some extend their internal stuff is mine.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?
Recently I was at an English camp and I had WAY too much fun with our nightly “Dance Club.” I perform a mean Chicken Dance and Hokey-Pokey!
We were just at a wedding, and my granddaughters did Chicken Dance and the Macarena. When did you first discover that you were a writer?
In 1994 when I was pregnant with my 3rd child I attended my first writer’s conference. I was hooked. I *loved* the idea of writing. I wanted to spend all my spare moments at the keyboard. The more I learned, the more I wanted to write. It was at my second conference, perhaps, that I called myself a “writer.” I’m thankful that God led me to this place where I can do what I love.
Yes, it's really fun to do what He created us to do. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.
Oh, I love many different types. History, classic devotionals, non-fiction, novels. I’m currently reading a novel The Help, a biography of a tank driver in World War II, and a book on evangelism … quite a mix!
What other books have you written, whether published or not?
I have a few children’s books that are written but not published yet. Other than that I’ve sold all the novels and non-fiction books that I’ve written. Maybe because I don’t start writing them until I have a publishing contract. :-)
I know what you're talking about. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?
By centering in Christ. My #1 priority of the day is to get away with my Bible and journal for at least 30 minutes. I need God to give me peace. During this time I ask God to help me figure out my priorities. I praise Him for who He is. I read my Bible and write down Scriptures that stand out to me. His Word feeds my soul. Of course, I don’t need quiet to call on God. I often say quick prayers throughout the day. “God, help!”
How do you choose your characters’ names?
I have favorite names and I find myself turning to those first. If I had more girls I would have used some of the names I’ve used for my characters: Michaela, Libby, Julia, Evie, Sophie. The novel I’m writing now has a character named Ava. I like them. Sometimes … I think of a name that was common during the time in history of when I’m writing. Mary and Bette are examples of this. Last names are harder. Sometimes I just scan my bookshelf (or even my mail) to see what name pops out to me.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?
My family. I love them and our home. I love our joy, our laughter, our joined love of God. I’m so proud of my husband and my kids. They bring the most smiles.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?
A cat. Give me a warm place to nap and I’m happy. Purrrr …
What is your favorite food?
My grandma’s homemade enchiladas. Yum! She made them for me just a few nights ago.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?
My greatest road block was that I was more eager to be published than to learn the craft. Once I spent time learning about good writing my work improved … and the publishing contracts came in their proper time.
What advice would you give to an author just starting out?
Join an on-line writing group for accountability. Check out as many writing books as you can find and read them. Write, write, write. Make the time.
Tell us about the featured book?
Sunflower Serenade was a novel that my kids helped me to plot. It is my third book in the Home to Heather Creek series. One day I was writing in the car when I asked my kids. What would be interesting … if you lived on a farm what would you want to happen? They love country music so a visit from a country singer would be the best. The story grew from there!
Here is what it’s about:
A small-town summer …
The days are long and lazy, the corn is high, the sunflowers are in bloom, and everyone in Bedford is gearing up for the biggest event of the summer: the annual county fair. But when a Nashville music producer approaches Bob about using Heather Creek Farm to film a country star's new music video, he and Charlotte are faced with a dilemma. Will they allow the glamour and enticements of big-city life to encroach upon their peaceful home? Will the excitement of celebrity drown out the simple joys of summer?
Thank you, Tricia, for spending this time with us.
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