Where can people find out more about you and your writing?

http://joylene.webs.com and http://cluculzwriter.blogspot.com

Tell us a bit about your latest book?

Dead Witness is the story of a woman whose life changes forever when she witnesses a drug lord murder two FBI agents. When the FBI fake her death and leave her family mourning, Valerie goes along with their plan to protect her children. When it's clear their plan is failing and her children are in danger, she discovers an inner strength that enables her to take matters into her own hands. She goes after the killer.

What advice do you have for other writers?

Never stop improving your writing. Read every self-help book you can. Even the bad ones will teach you at least one good thing. Read your work aloud. It's amazing how many errors pop out. Never query an agent or a publisher until you're absolutely certain your manuscript is clean and publish-ready. You can't undo the wrong move. And write what you care about, not what you think the masses want to read. Readers may not understand the creative process, but they know when something's missing.

Do you belong to a writers group? How does it help your writing career?

I'm currently down to two writer's groups. One is with well-established writers; the other is a mixed group of professionals and new writers. The art of exchanging critiques is the most valuable tool available to any writer. People pay big dollars to editors that do the same thing as these experienced critiquers can do. And learning how to give a solid, professional critique helps any writers fine-tune their skills. How better to learn what works or doesn't work than by witnessing it firsthand? I don't think I'd be the writer I am today without the support and help from knowledge of several online writers' groups. The secret is to participate. Give the kind of critique you'd like to receive.

How do you prepare for author events?

Over the past year, I've learned to do little in preparation. I have my bookmarks, my poster and a bowl of goodies in hand before I leave the house. I do deep breathing exercises and remind myself to stay in the moment. I appreciate every potential reader I meet by giving them my undivided attention. I make every effort to enjoy myself. And why not? People are interesting.

Tell us about your book 'Dead Witness'.

Valerie McCormick is a wife and mother from small town Canada. While visiting Seattle, she becomes the only witness to the brutal seaside murder of two FBI agents. When she flees to the nearest police station to report the crime, she becomes caught up in a web of international intrigue and danger. Suddenly, she and her family are in the sights of ruthless criminals bent on preventing her from testifying against the murderer. Even with FBI protection, Valerie is not safe. Whisked away from her family and all that is familiar to her, Valerie fights back against the well-intentioned FBI to ultimately take control over her life with every ounce of fury a mother can possess.

Any self publishing tips to share?

Before contemplating self-publishing, make sure your book is publish-ready. Read. Study. Join critique groups. Have at least 3 critiques done from knowledgeable critiquers. They say self-publishing isn't for the faint hearted for a reason. There is so much work required before your book is ever printed. Networking is essential. Find a good solid printing company, and make sure your distributor will send your book where it needs to be. And when it's released, be prepared to work 16 hours a day for up to a year to make certain your novel is on the lips of every reader you can possible reach.

How do you go about promoting your book?

There's no end to do it. I belong to some very good online writer's groups. I network at Book Place, Ning, Goodreads, Facebook, Gather, Author's Den, just to name a few. Then there's the online interviews, blogging, book fairs, book signings, advertising, door to door sale's pitch. Next I need to do a virtual book tour. It goes on and on.

Is your family supportive of your writing?

Very. My best friend is also my accountant. It's because of her daughter that my books will be in every Save-On Food store in northern B.C. in such a few weeks. She gave a book to her boss, and as a result, Dead Witness will be stocked on their shelves before Christmas. My husband is my own personal driver. He's responsible for getting me to my book signings on time. Our youngest, stationed in Afghanistan, has been passing my book around to his buddies. I couldn't have written this book or any of my other manuscripts without knowing my family was behind me all the way. My mother was my first reader. She caught my spelling mistakes. My brother, a gun expert, was my consultant on Dead Witness

What is the most important thing you've learnt since being a writer?

I think the most important thing I've learned is to never become complacent. Never stop learning. I think being a writer has made me appreciate the most minute things in life. Unfortunately, I think it also has left me never satisfied with my written word.

Anything else to add?

It's sad how many authors choose self-publishing before their book is ready. I knew when I decided to publish my book that there would be stigmas attached. And for good reason. We're a high-tech generation. We want what we want when we want it. Writing is a long process. Sometimes it takes months to revise and edit a manuscript. But more often than not, it takes years. It's something that can't be rushed.