Back then I use to read a lot of Patricia Cornwell novels; she writes murder mysteries. I had finished one of her books, cannot remember which one, and then Hailey Velck P.I. popped in my head and I began my writing.
Maureen Stevenson – 19 November 2019
The Back Flap
Hailey Velck, PI gets pulled into a serial homicide by a close friend and Homicide Detective, Bobby Stein. Together they begin the hunt for the killer before the city is covered is mutilated bodies. Can she catch the killer before she or someone she loves gets hurt?
About the book
What is the book about?
Ebony Eyes is about a serial killer terrorizing Seattle, Washington and a Private Investigator hired to help catch the murderer.
When did you start writing the book?
I wrote the book over ten years ago. I started writing it in 2006 and it was published in 2008.
How long did it take you to write it?
It took me about a year and a half to write it.
Where did you get the idea from?
Back then I use to read a lot of Patricia Cornwell novels; she writes murder mysteries. I had finished one of her books, cannot remember which one, and then Hailey Velck P.I. popped in my head and I began my writing.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
I struggled with the end and have heard from a few people that I should redo the ending and maybe one day I will.
What came easily?
The concept and characters all came easily. Finding the right middle and ending can be challenging for a lot of writers and I am no different.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
All of my characters are fictitious but I may and have pulled some traits and mannerisms from some of the people I know.
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 draw a lot of my love of reading and writing from authors like; Anne Rice, Nora Roberts, Patricia Cornwell, Karen Marie Moning, John Flanagan, Brent Weeks, James Rollins, Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child.
Do you have a target reader?
I write a few different genres so my reader range is broad.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
I am a pantser writer so I usually just start with either a name or a broad character concept and go from there.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
I have tried to outline and every time I ended up going way off script so I outline as I go mainly to keep everything straight.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
I have learned over the years to edit after I write. The first thing to do is to just get it all written down and out of my head.
Did you hire a professional editor?
I have not hired a professional editor for my previous works but with my current WIP I do plan on using one.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Sometimes, usually if the story is at a troubling spot, I may crank some good old 80’s or 90’s rock.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
I did submit Ebony Eyes to traditional publishing houses and a few agents but after several rejections, all positive rejections but rejections none the less, I decided to go with a self-publishing company.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
They several rejection letters made me decided to go with a self-publishing company. At the time I thought it would be an ideal root for my work but in the end it was a lot of money for little reward.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
The book cover for Ebony Eyes was professionally done.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
My marketing plan is self-run as it is the most affordable path for me at this time. I post about my work on my social media platforms and by doing interviews like these.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Keep at it! No matter what people say or don’t say always keep writing. Self-publishing has come a long way in the last ten years, making it free and easy through a few different companies.
About You
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in North East British Columbia.
Where do you live now?
I still live in North East British Columbia.
What would you like readers to know about you?
I write in a few different genres, am a mother of two children and I enjoy taking landscape photographs in my spare time.
What are you working on now?
I am currently writing a supernatural novel.
End of Interview:
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