I don’t outline, even though I do think that I should sometimes. I think its because I get so involved in my characters that I know exactly where and when they are going.
Bobbie Jean Ashley – 12 September 2016
The Back Flap
Charli Warren had spent years in the asylum and had paid for her sins. She was determined to make the best of things and to turn all of her troubles around. The only problem was the constant thorn in her side, known as Cici! Charli feared Cici and couldn’t find any happiness with her around. Could she find her way out of the asylum? Would Cici always be there to instill fear in her? Could she find happiness? Only time would tell!
About the book
What is the book about?
The book is about a woman named Charli Warren and her stint inside an insane asylum and how she puts her life back together after achieving her freedom.
When did you start writing the book?
December of 2015
How long did it take you to write it?
One month
Where did you get the idea from?
I was listening to the song Independent Love Song”by Scarlet and thought of the story. The song has no relation to the book nor is the book about the song…just the inspiration came while listening to it.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
No, this book came rather easily
What came easily?
The whole book, really
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
They are purely fictitious
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
I enjoy the works of Andy Andrews, Edgar Allen Poe, Lord Byron, Stephen King, and others. I like a great story and I love strong characters.
Do you have a target reader?
Men and women, 20 years old and older
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
Mine comes strictly from imagination and delving into things that I am curious about. I have to be inspired to write, my writers block comes along when I’m not in the moment or heavily involved in the story.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
I don’t outline, even though I do think that I should sometimes. I think its because I get so involved in my characters that I know exactly where and when they are going.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
Both
Did you hire a professional editor?
My cousin, Artie Cook, who is an English lit major helps me with my editing.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Of course, some of my inspiration comes from music, mostly classical but sometimes classic rock
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
I haven’t because I have no idea where I would begin that process.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
Because I wanted an outlet for my writing and plus others were asking me to publish so they could read my material.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
I did it myself because just as the book was inspired, so is the cover
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
I am winging it primarily, but I’m also working with a publicist.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Just keep working hard, never give up your dream, and do what you can to make it happen.
About You
Where did you grow up?
Primarily in Illinois but have also lived in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri growing up
Where do you live now?
Newton, IL
What would you like readers to know about you?
I am a full time on-air host for a classic rock radio station. I write not only books, but also music, poetry, short stories, and screenplays. I have submitted screenplays, in the past, to Sundance and their feature film program.
What are you working on now?
On my next book, All the little moments.
End of Interview:
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