When did you know you wanted to be a writer?
I don't think anyone decides to be a writer. It is something you either are, or aren't.
For me, I started writing when I was very young. I wasn't trying to write anything in particular, but what I came up with made a lot of sense- and it rhymed too. It was probably then I realised I had something. I spent the next ten years or more of my life, developing my writing skills.
In this time, I juggled with the idea of doing and becoming several different things, but writing always remained the one thing I was sure I would continue doing.
What genre do you write and why?
I can't say I have a specific genre. I started out writing short stories and poetry, most of which were based on real-life events even if not personal to myself. Since then though, I've written just about everything from non fiction, suspense stories, love stories. I have recently decided to step into 'chick-lit' writing, and feel this style of writing suits me best.
Tell us about your latest book.
I've recently written my debut 'chick-lit' novel, "Until We Meet".
Writing this book was more of a spur-of-the-moment project, rather than something I had planned to do. It has been the easiest thing I have written in the last six years, because so much of it is relevant to my own life. The book includes several characters and it goes through the motions of how it is to date in modern society, the trials and tribulations of finding love and meeting the wrong people. Ultimately though, "Until We Meet" tells the story of the two main characters - Darren and Katy. Unlike the typical romance tale of boy-meets-girl, "Until We Meet" plays out the lives of two people who have never met.
What marketing methods are you using to promote your book?
I am still marketing the book at the moment. In the last six years of being a published author, I have realised the importance of creating a 'buzz' before the release of a new book. It gets your audience excited and keeps them keen to read. This time I opted to advertise "Until We Meet" using a book trailer:
I also have a Facebook page, where I encourage anyone to come over and chat to me. You can connect with me on Facebook on the following link:http://www.facebook.com/michelleelliotauthor
What formats is the book available in?
"Until We Meet" will be released for sale in both digital format and print.
What do you like to do when you're not writing?
I have a busy life at home when I'm not writing. I split my time between three busy children (aged two) who are perfect, wonderful and gorgeous. My days usually involve finger painting, trips to the beach and park and generally making a mess. I love drawing, painting and anything artistic and I am an avid reader.
Who are your favourite authors?
I don't have many favourite authors as such. I love books - sometimes I'll love one book from an author, and hate their next. But in the last few months I have read and enjoyed the likes of Sibel Hodge, Sophie Kinsella, and EL James.
What advice do you have for other writers?
I would say that if writing is something you are passionate about and want to persue - then go for it. Writing is a hard 'career' choice to make. It is full of pitfalls and disappointments. It takes hard work, hours of writing, reading and re-editing and you get tired of the comments (I often get told that writing isn't a "real job") but it really is. There is nothing more satisfying than holding YOUR own book in your hand. Seeing your name in print, knowing people are reading what you have written - that feeling can't be beaten. It really is worth the hard work. I'd also advise any new author to get involved with other writers and places like Writers & Authors. Being a part of a writing community keeps you going, encourages you and inspires.
What's your favourite quote about writing/for writers?
Rejection slips, or form letters, however tactfully phrased, are lacerations of the soul, if not quite inventions of the devil - but there is no way around them.
I think this is a big quote for me. I've been rejected so many times as an author. I used to get so, so disappointed when I recieved a form later or rejection mail. I'm glad of each of them now because it was an extra push to keep going. :)
What's the best thing about being a writer?
The best parts of being a writer for me - are knowing people are reading your work. When someone messages me to tell me they enjoyed something I've written, I feel so proud. I would hope one day my own children will read my books and be inspired. That would probably be the most amazing thing for me to have achieved, as an author.
Where can people find out more about you and your writing?
You can find out more about the book through my Facebook page and book trailer. In the coming weeks, my personal website (still a work in progress) will be available which will include a personal biography, information on my books, and free goodies.
Anything else you'd like to add?
I would like to thank Jo, for hosting me here today. I would also like to send my thanks out to my book cover designer Oliver Bennett (Who has taken my rubbish sketches and ideas and turned them into something amazing) my supportive friends and family who have encouraged me to keep writing, and to my readers - who have helped make a big dream a reality :)
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