1. I love the story of how you got the idea for Crossroads. Can you share a little bit about that with my readers?
Crossroads is based on a dream I had in high school. In chapter one when Margaret tells Claudia to leave, I was Claudia in my dream. I remember thinking . . . I want to stay, but would this mean that I would die? I wasn’t ready for my life to end. At that point I made a decision that I wanted to go back and live my life. Even till now, I wondered what I would have seen if I had decided to stay. Though I will never know, I can imagine a place such as Crossroads can exist so I decided to write about such a place.
2. Have you always wanted to be a writer, or was it strictly a result of your inspiration for Crossroads?
If someone told me that in the future, I would write a novel, I would have laughed out loud and thought that person was crazy. Never in my wildest dream did I think I would write a novel. Writing was strictly a result of my inspiration to write Crossroads. I started writing Crossroads because it was a way for me to heal the loss of my grandmother. I didn’t think I had much to say, but I was wrong…lol!!!
3. Do you have any quirky writing rituals? Share please!
I can write several chapters in one sitting if I know what I want to write about, but before even doing so, I need to check my facebook, goodreads, blog site, and for sure my emails. Once I have done that, then I can feel free to start typing. Sometimes I eat candies, chocolates or ice cream to get me thinking, but I love Giant Chewy Sweet Tarts….Yum Yum!!! I can eat several packs in one sitting.
4. Which character was your favorite to write? Why?
Michael was my favorite character to write about. Who wouldn’t want a guardian angel like him watching over you…lol!!! When I was much younger, I had a crush on a boy name Michael, but his character is based off my husband, protective, romantic, and silly at times. No… he doesn’t have wings…lol!!!
5. Do you think you are anything like any of the characters in Crossroads? If so which one, and how are you alike?
Though I don’t like to admit it, Claudia’s character is almost just like me. I was very sheltered, didn’t know much about fashion or boys. Claudia’s first job, first car, camping and many of her experiences in the story are based on things that I did, except there were no angels…lol!!!
6. What is your favorite quote of all time?
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Quote by Maya Angelou
I believe this is so true.
7. What author has inspired you?
Though all authors inspire me, I would have to say Stephenie Meyer. Twilight was based on her dream. She gave me the inspiration to write my novel from my dream.
8. You've written an incredible Young Adult novel, do you enjoy reading Young Adult books as well or do you enjoy reading other genres? What has been your favorite book this year?
I didn’t read many books growing up. I don’t know why, but I didn’t enjoy reading. Not until I became a teacher, did I develop a passion for books. I read many children books to my students and especially to my two little ones, but they’re not little any more. Twilight series was the first YA books I enjoyed reading. From then on, I started reading a lot more YA books.
9. If Crossroads were to have a theme song what would it be?
I’m not sure, but I did write several lines of a song I made up. “Are you really here tonight or are you just a dream? Out of nowhere you appeared and captured my heart. I surrender all my love to you. Give me forever. That’s all I ask.”
10. What is one book that you think everyone should read?
The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. I cried so much!!! I can’t imagine writing this book knowing you will never see your family again. As my kids grow up, I would urge them to read this book.
11. When you were little what did you want to be when you grew up?
Funny you ask me that question because I wanted to be a teacher when I was little. I tried avoiding becoming one, but as faith would have it, here I am.
12. What has been the most amazing part of becoming a published author?
Many have emailed me to let me know how Crossroads has helped them escape from their everyday stress. Also, how they’ve connected to this book because of chapter one, having a loved one passed away. I took on a journey not knowing how rewarding it would be for me. I’ve met so many wonderful people from all over the world through facebook, goodreads and blog sites. I’ve made everlasting friendship where friendship knows no boundaries. And I have to thank my grandmother who continues to watch over me from Heaven.
13. What gets your creative juices flowing or gets you in the mood to write?
My creative juices are my readers. When I receive these awesome emails, letting me know how much they love my book, I got really excited and think of ways I can make book 2 even better. Thank you for all the wonderful, sweet and encouraging emails!!! I also receive fan letters in the mail. That was so awesome!!! They took their time to thank me for writing a great story that it just fills me up what happiness. And it reassures me that I did the right thing by publishing my story. I say this because it almost didn’t happen. I was afraid to take a chance, afraid that many wouldn’t like my story.
14. Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?
Get all your thoughts down before you forget. Ask friends to read your draft and get feedbacks. But most importantly, believe that you can!
For the readers of this book, fly with me through this incredible journey. Fall in love with the characters as much as I did and make Crossroads your place to be. Thank you for your support.
Thank you so much for being with us today Mary!
You can find my review for Crossroads here
Check out the trailer for Crossroads here
Mary has generously offered to give one lucky reader a signed copy of her book. She asks that you follow her on Facebook Twitter or her blog Hey and while your in the following mood I'll give you an extra entry if you follow me (new and old followers get the extra entry). I'll be ending this giveaway on September 15th and will try my best to post the winner on the 16th. This contest is opened to anyone that the USPS delivers so international friends you are welcome to enter as well. Good Luck!
Thanks for the interview and the giveaway!!:)
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