My writing process is let the story tell itself. As soon as I start a story, it seems to take on its own life, and the characters lead the story.
Brenda Rae Schoolcraft – 27 February 2019
The Back Flap
Imagine not being able to sleep at night, wondering if the monster was coming home drunk to terrorize the household. My father, sociopath, killer, bank robber ruined my childhood, and destroyed most things that came in contact with him. Almost killing my mother on multiple occasions. A fictionalized story of dysfunction and abuse on a ten plus scale. Chilling, riveting story of a family destroyed by the storm. This story will keep you wanting to know more. A dramatic, terror filled account of my childhood, Brenda Rae Schoolcraft. Enjoy your ride, on the runaway train.
About the book
What is the book about?
Alice Had a Palace is based on true life. Abuse and dysfunction on a ten plus scale. Homicidal violence and sexual scenes not for the underage reader, or the faint of heart.
When did you start writing the book?
I started writing this book thirteen years ago, and it took me ten years to complete it.
Where did you get the idea from?
I just knew the book needed to be written, having a subject that is international and needed to help those that might be suffering the same abuse, or to warn others of the signs of impending danger.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
Yes, I struggled with my own emotions, on a roller coaster, crying a lot as I relived the horrors of my childhood.
What came easily?
I come by my writing skills naturally, as it is in my genes. My great grandfather from the 1800’s, Henry Rowe Schoolcraft a famous writer in history books. He is my muse.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
My characters are all real, but a few names have been changed to protect the innocent.
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?
Reading is my favorite pastime. I read everything I can get my hands on. A great book to me is like a precious jewel. Not an author follower, rather a great book enthusiast.
Do you have a target reader?
Those that will love Alice had a Palace, will be those that enjoy true life stories of families and dysfunction.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
My writing process is let the story tell itself. As soon as I start a story, it seems to take on its own life, and the characters lead 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 my stories.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
I get the story out as it comes, and edit after it is completed.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Writing in a coffee shop gets the creative juices flowing. The buzz of voices and the laughter and background noise of a coffee shop is wonderful for my writing.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
No, I haven’t submitted my work to agents.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
Deciding to go indie, just gives me more control of my work. I submitted to Tellwell Publishing here in British Columbia. They are great.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
My book cover, I created myself.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
A marketing plan is essential for your work to get distributed to the right places, to make it successful.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Yes, being an indie author works best these days, as getting a publisher is like winning a lottery. Once your book hits the world in a big way, they will come to you. AT this point you can call the shots. E-books are huge these days and you don’t necessarily need a physical copy of your book.
About You
Where did you grow up?
Growing up in Northern Ontario, eventually moving to British Columbia. I love the mountains and the coastal waters.
What would you like readers to know about you?
My writing has been described as stark, raw and powerful. I have lived my life outside of the box and have many life experiences to draw from for great writing and reading. As we speak I am on the home stretch with my next novel, Hunted Cracked and Broken, a psychological thriller, with a serial killer. An intimate look into the lives of street variety prostitutes, to the high class call girls, pimps, and strippers. A well-developed cast of characters, right down to my task force, the penny vagina task force, Speed and Samantha the main detectives on the tail of my killer. A copycat killer in the mix, and a few murderous pimps. Mystery and intrigue on every page, you will love it.
I have a way of hooking my reader right from the first page. I will only let you go, when the book is done, so be ready to be engaged and spellbound.
End of Interview:
Get your copy of Alice Had a Palace from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
