Good morning, Theresa Elizabeth. Thank you for taking time out of your schedule to interview with Magnolia & Willows. We are keenly interested in hearing from an author about what it is like to write a book, how it feels to be published and how a great story is even thought of in the first place.
This blog post is number 2 in our series of local talented businesswomen and arts. It is meant to highlight their chosen creative endeavors and how they work to succeed.
When did you first start writing?
Someone gave me a journal, in my early teens. I used it as my diary, I wrote everything in it. All my inner most secrets, someone close to me found it and shared all my personal thoughts. That crushed me deeply but that didn’t stop me; now as an adult my books are my journals for all to read.
How do you deal with writer's block?
I have yet to experience writer’s block. My superpower is that I can find inspiration in everything. Driving home from work listing to music is where I get most of my inspirations.
On a typical day how many hours do you write?
I wish I could write all day every day, that is how much joy writing bring me, but I have to factor in being a mother, a wife, and holding down a full-time job. So, I can get in about 2 hours on a good day.
How many months does it take to finish a book?
From start to finish it can take me up to 6 months to 1 year. Editing takes up the most time, so I have a love/ hate relationship with editing.
When did you first consider yourself an author?
That part hasn’t hit me yet. If a man buys a farm, does that make him a farmer? It’s the possibilities, a dream along with lots of hard work and determination. I am in the early stages of dreaming about the possibilities.
Do stories come to you all at once?
I write my stories as I go. My kitchen table has sticky notes everywhere.
Do you have a routine that you use to inspire you to write?
I start my morning about 4am, light a candle, make my coffee and light up a black and mild.
What made you decide to publish your work?
My wife. She encouraged me, she pushed me and she purchased everything I needed to get started.
Is there anyone that helps your creative process?
GOD, because I couldn’t do any of this without him.
How much do editors really do?
In my option a good editor can make or break your story. No matter how great your story, Editing is a must, good editing will make your story clear to the reader, it allows the story to flow freely as proper grammar and punctuation are corrected.
For any aspiring authors what advice can you give them?
“Good, better best, never let it rest until your good is your better and your better is your best”.
When did you know you wanted to be a writer?
The moment I finished reading my first V.C. Andrews “Flowers in the attic”.
Everyone has a story, and anyone can write a book.
As readers, we often fall in love with the stories in books, and it feels painful for us when the story ends. How does it feel for an Author when you are finished writing the story?
I have yet to finish a complete story (wink, wink)but I’m working on it every day. Edit: Theresa Elizabeth is working on her third novel "Broken Bricks" expected to debut May '22.
What do you hope readers take away from your books?
LOVE- love is complicated and everyone’s definition will be different, and we all need to respect that. We don’t have to like it, but we have to allow others to find what love is to them without judgments.
You have written 2 books now, soon to be 3. Do you have a favorite book that you wrote?
HERMAJESTY was my first born, and the process taught me so much; like patience, time management, and how to stand up for myself and for my craft. So, I will forever favor her.
Where can we find out more information about you and Your books?
•TheresaElizabeth.org • Amazon Hermajesty, Girls Night Out •Barnes and Noble
•TheresaElizabeth1 on Instagram
Magnolia & Willows was so excited to interview Theresa Elizabeth. We have collaborated on a pop art candle/book set that is available for sale in our shop.
HerMajesty inspired candle is fragranced with fresh fruit and warm honey tonka which reminds us of the hot, spicy story of Hermajesty.
Girls Night Out inspired candle is fragranced with the sweet winds that blow on a balmy spring night in the south. Floral Magnolias and dainty Peonies recall memories of many friendships along life’s path.
