Selena, thank you very much for taking time out of your busy schedule to allow an interview with Coffee Time Romance. You have a very lovely website with some great books, more releases and I noticed that you have opened a critique service. How ingenious is that? On another note, I read Pippy’s Wish and really enjoyed it. You are one very talented author. Before we get into some of your works, as well as Sabrina’s Destiny, would you like to share some information about your critique site? I love your slogan, Write with your heart. Edit with your head.
Thank you for your kind words about my writing and website. ‘Write with your heart. Edit with your head,’ is a quote I created to summarize the writing process. The writing with your heart part is easy for us writers, but handcuffing our egos and releasing our internal editor/critic, is sometimes a challenge. That’s where my critique service comes into play. I take a writer’s synopsis, query letter or manuscript and assist the author with character development, plot, settings, transition, and marketability suggestions for improvement. I work with the author and present the critiques in a positive way.
Another great book I was able to read was Sabrina’s Destiny. You certainly have a way of bringing the characters to life. Why not tell us a bit about Sabrina’s Destiny? I believe it is garnishing some great reviews. I loved the idea of the business Tycoon coming in trying to open up a golf course. Just the premise makes the reader know there is going to be conflict especially when the heroine is determined to stay grounded in her actions. The little addition of the angel was such a great seasoning to the story. Even the dialogue keeps the reader glued to the pages. I could almost feel the presence of Angels, the story was so visual. You do such excellent work.
Thank you again! All words a writer wants to hear. Sabrina’s Destiny is a story of dreams, misplaced guilt, hope, risk taking, forgiveness of self and others, never taking one self too seriously, the ability to laugh at oneself and of course a splash of romance, lots of sexual tension (that was my favorite part of the book to write, the teasing and tension between Sabrina and Jason) and because of my love of Angels, especially cool, quirky ones, the mystical element, which I believe is around us.
I understand that you are presently working on a sequel to Sabrina’s Destiny. Would you care to share a bit about it? I bet living in Ontario, during this season, brings along some great inspiration in your stories with the different changes in weather.
I love the four seasons, and fall is my favorite season, and you’re right, experiencing the different elements of nature does inspire my writing. Sabrina’s sequel features her best friend Maggie and Jason’s friend, Trevor. I will also bring back Sabrina, Jason their brood, and of course the angels.
When composing Sabrina’s Destiny, was there anything in particular that brought about the development of the story?
While I was writing this story, I was taking care of my dad and mother-in-law who were both struggling with cancer at the time. Unfortunately, they both died within a few months of each other, and never did see the completion of the book, but the grief I endured at that time, and the gift of laughter which I inherited from my loving parents, helped me shape my characters, both of which were dealing with stunted grief and both dealing with their losses in their own way.
Do you outline when you write or just go with the flow?
I outline my books.
I read that your husband, David, brings you chocolate on a weekly basis while you compose your stories – that is so sweet. Does he ever offer any suggestions to your stories?
I’ve said this in many interviews, radio and in print, my husband is my hero who continues to give my happily ever after, and not just because he knows about my chocolate addiction. He’s my male consultant, and will give me advice (only when I ask him) on male dialogue. He’s also very good with technical advice, if I need to know about cars, power tools, or just someone to bounce off plot ideas with.
What do you think about the E-Publishing world? I have noticed that is has been generating much more interest than it once did. Where do you see it going in the next couple of years?
I could see e-books making a large impact on schools in the near future, it would reduce books prices, and also the amount of books children need to cart around with them. Avid readers still love to browse in bookstores, and they may take more time to convert to e-book readers, but I believe there will be more interest in the future.
What is the longest time that you have spent on a novel?
I’ve been working on two books for the past 3 years, a suspense and another romantic comedy.
Do your characters become a part of your life where they touch you or make you laugh or cry?
When working on a book, I’m living with these characters night and day, so for me, they are real and a part of my life. I know I’ve nailed a good scene when I feel like crying or I laugh or smile.
What do you do to relax when you are not composing?
Lately, I’ve been traveling a lot, which is a passion of both my husband and myself. Other than that, I enjoy walks with my dog, family outings, cooking, and of course reading. I bring a book with me everywhere I go, so I can keep my quota of 5 books per week alive.
How would you describe your writing space?
Colorful, surrounded by Angels, candles, snow globes, a first edition copy of To Kill a Mockingbird (my favorite book), autographed books from author friends, and pictures of my parents and in-laws who watch me work, and cheer me on.
For Fun, Selena: If you had to live on a deserted island for a year, what food would you have to take with you in quantity?
I know you expect me to say chocolate, but, the one food that I absolutely love and would need is pasta!
And of all the cities in the world, where would your perfect spot be to vacation?
I can only pick one? We’ve traveled extensively and I love so many places, but if I had to pick one, I would have to say a small coastal village in Italy.
Selena, thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to spend with Coffee Time Romance today. Be sure to visit Selena’s website to learn more about her great works, as well as her critique site. It has been a delight Selena, and I wish you the best in all of your writing endeavors.
I thank you for allowing me to introduce my work and myself to your readers. Happy reading!
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