Why did you decide to self-publish?

Many aspiring authors, like myself, are drawn to self-publishing because of its rapid expansion in the publishing sector. I decided to self-publish because I was fed up with the usual publishing process. To have my first and second books published the old-fashioned way, I scoured the literary world for an agent and publisher. It was time-consuming, especially after receiving rejection letters and inquiries. In the traditional sense, it might take a long time or not be published at all. Writing, developing your book cover, advertising, marketing, and distributing a self-published book might be a lot of effort, but all subsidiary rights and any income generated from the book allow me to be in charge of everything.

How did you start writing?

Since reading Hans Christiansen and Grimm’s Fairy Tales when I was twelve, I have always loved fantasy fiction. Perhaps I was simply engrossed in reading them over and over again for some reason. I’d never really considered diving into the world of fantasy before. Writing creatively was not something I did in high school. Who would have guessed that one day I would try my hand at writing? Learning to write has been an awe-inspiring and amazing experience for me. There is so much I have yet to discover, and every day is an exciting experience.

What genre would you say you write?

A Ray of Sunshine, Book One, and Ray and Haley in the Kingdom of the Gobtrolls, Book Two, are the two children’s novels that I have written. Book three of the series, “There’s Something About Kayla,” is still in the works. I named the novels after my three grandchildren, Ray, Haley, and Kayla. My then-eight-year-old grandson Ray Angelo inspired the story. He claimed to have magical abilities, wearing a cape-like shirt around his neck similar to the Harry Potter books and movies.

For years, those heartwarming Hallmark movies about falling in love and having a happy ending have had a special place in my heart. I had never read a romance novel until a few years back when I picked up Jennifer Crusie’s Maybe This Time at the doctor’s office. It made me realize that I, too, am a romantic at heart, so I penned my first romance. I tried to keep the series more focused on the desire and the struggle to achieve it than on the resolution. This was to keep things interesting while still being heartwarming. As a result, the Spoiled Brats Book Series was created.

Finally, I enjoyed crafting short stories. Daydreaming is a favorite pastime of mine. Mrs. Millionaire’s persona was born in a dream. Matilde “Tilly” Jane Parker was based on my mother, and I used her real name, Matilde. Vedasto, the character I created, is named after my father, whom I idolized growing up. So, “Write what you know” has some merit after all.

What are your tips for someone who is just starting out and wants to get their work published?

As a fellow aspiring author who is still learning the ins and outs of self-publishing, I urge you not to let rejection get to you. You can’t stop writing, so don’t give up on yourself. Every bit of advice should be heeded, no matter how small or inconsequential it seems. Keep in mind that even a negative review isn’t necessarily bad. We all feel the same way, and you are not alone. Even well-known writers receive staggering one-star reviews. Learn from the poor comments and apply them to improve your writing. Negative feedback on the work we put our heart and soul into is painful. You can’t, however, please everyone. Positive reviews balance negative comments, so don’t take it personally. Move on and keep doing what you enjoy. That’s what I did!

What authors, or books have influenced you?

Jennifer Crusie’s book, “Maybe This Time,” inspired my first romance novel. I like her writing style. Debbie Macomber is another author I admire. I spent my weekends watching Hallmark movies based on her books, which I thoroughly enjoyed.

What are you working on now?

I have just finished writing the second volume of the Mrs. Millionaire Short Story Book Series. There are five tales in this collection. They all stand on their own, without cliffhangers. The book tells the stories of several people struggling through personal crises. A dramatic twist at the end ties all their stories together.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books? 

About 30 book clubs were set up on Facebook. Along with this, I maintain a presence on social media platforms such as Twitter, LinkedIn, Goodreads, and my website. I only agreed to participate in activities I knew I could complete. It’s overwhelming at times since I also have a full-time job and other family responsibilities. As much as I can, I am trying to balance all the things I have to do.

What is your favorite book of all time?

Hans Christensen hands down.

What is one Children’s book everyone should read?

A Ray of Sunshine as well as Ray and Haley in the Kingdom of the Gobtrolls are both from A Magical Storybook series that children should read.

This is a story about love, respect, and family values. It’s about embracing, accepting, forgiving, owning up to, and learning from our flaws. If you’re looking for an enjoyable family read, this is the one. It inspires us to look at our lives differently.

If you could have any superpower what would you choose?

Healing the sick, particularly young people and the elderly, is something I would greatly embrace. There are no words to describe how painful it is to see someone suffer from their sickness. My extraordinary powers will end this world’s misery and suffering.

If you could meet one person who has died who would you choose?

My father, for the simple reason that I never said my final goodbye to him before his death. I would tell him how much I loved him and how happy I was to be his daughter.

Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your Children’s book.

This is a wonderful story to tell your children before bedtime. It teaches them about cooperation, love, and acceptance while motivating them to do the same.

What do you do in your free time?

Spending time with my husband is one of my favorite things to do when I’m free. He and I would put the sofa and loveseat together on the weekends and spend the entire day watching Hallmark Christmas movies.

Harry Potter or Twilight?

Harry Potter, of course. My grandson, Ray, and I enjoyed watching it together, and I still have wonderful memories of it. It will always be my favorite film.

What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

That, at fifty-nine, I am still a kid at heart. Watching Harry Potter and SpongeBob Square Pants is a way for me to remember my grandson, Ray when he was a little boy. I want to keep him close to my heart forever. Since he and his parents moved to California, I’ve yearned for him constantly. I miss him so much.