I would like to introduce "The Stellar Stacey Rourke" as our "Author of the Month" for the month of September. Here is the personal interview that we were blessed with.
Candie and Michelle: Have you always known you wanted to be a writer? Did anything happen to push you in that direction?
Stacey Rourke: I have always written, I did NOT always want to be a writer. Writing was something I did, it was part of who I was. However I never even considered being a writer until after I finished college, trying numerous other career paths, had my kids, and THEN wrote my first full manuscript. Only then did a little light bulb flicker on over my head and I realized what I should have been doing all along. I didn't choose writing, it chose me and I couldn't be happier about that.
Candie and Michelle: We are so glad it did choose you. How has life changed since your career has taken off?
Stacey Rourke: It's more hectic in a wonderful way! I travel a lot more and never seem to have a day off because even when I do my mind is always on the next story or chapter I need to be working on.
Candie and Michelle: We understand what you're saying. Is it hard to juggle having a family and being a writer at the same time? How do you do it?
Stacey Rourke: It can be tricky, but I am fortunate enough to have a very understanding family. They juggle things around and help me out so I can continue to chase this crazy dream of mine.
Candie and Michelle: Awww. :) Who has been your biggest supporter in your career so far?
Stacey Rourke: My husband. He is my partner, my sounding board, and my anchor that keeps me rooted when my gypsy spirit gets carried away.
Candie and Michelle: We are so glad that you have that support system. What was the hardest part in getting your writing career started?
Stacey Rourke: The literary world is evolving right now. Different avenues for publishing have made it possible that for everyone that wants to write a book to throw their hat in the ring. This has flooded the market with material. Working to stand out within that onslaught of talent has been the hardest part without a doubt.
Candie and Michelle: I can now say I understand where you are coming from. For those who haven’t read your books yet how would you describe your writing style?
Stacey Rourke: Dark and twisted story lines with snarky humor weaved through them. That pretty much describes them to a T.
Candie and Michelle: Makes me want to read your books even more. Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Stacey Rourke: I seek out new challenges all the time! I'm constantly trying to find new writing hurdles to conquer; be it a new genre, switching up my usual POV, or tackling one literature's greatest legends. As authors its easily to fall into a pattern and stick to a "formula" with each book. I try to change things up and try something new with each book!
Candie and Michelle: Those are words all of us authors should live by. What is something you do to overcome writer’s block?
Stacey Rourke: Just write. Sit down and get words out. Even if it will have to be completely rewritten later on, or it's a section from a completely different story, get something out. I try to get at least 1000 words out a day. It may not seem like much, but each word is a brick that will eventually build your book!
Candie and Michelle: Great advice! If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
Stacey Rourke: I'm not sure I could pick just one! King's twisted mind, Rowling's world building, Meyer's mob appeal, Patterson's drive; I would love to pick the minds of each and everyone of the greats!
Candie and Michelle: All great choices. If you could have been the original author of any book, what would it have been and why?
Stacey Rourke: Harry Potter! JK Rowling owns a castle thanks to that book! A CASTLE! I like castles ...
Candie and Michelle: I can see it now....Castle Rourke. :) Out of all the books you have written so far which has been your favorite one to write?
Stacey Rourke: The entire Legends Saga is my pride and joy. It's so dark and twisted and I enjoyed every minute of the process of creating it!
Candie and Michelle: That series is definitely on TBR list. As a whole which character has been your favorite “good guy” to write about?
Stacey Rourke: Celeste in the Gryphon Series was my favorite "good guy." She is so strong, and selfless it's truly inspirational.
Candie and Michelle: Can't wait to get to know her. Out of all your books do you feel like there is a particular character you relate to the most?
Stacey Rourke: Honestly, I think there's a little bit of me in all my characters. In each of them I find some element I can relate to.
Candie and Michelle: :) Is there anywhere that you have traveled to that has inspired you to use it one of your upcoming books?
Stacey Rourke: Recently I drove through the mountains of Virginia, it was so gorgeous I definitely think I will have to use that setting for a scene at some point.
Candie and Michelle: I bet that was beautiful. What book are you reading now?
Stacey Rourke: Right now I am reading Spelled by Betsy Schow.
Candie and Michelle: Will have to add that to my TBR list. Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
Stacey Rourke: Each and every author at Anchor Group Publishing catches my attention!
Candie and Michelle: I am so thankful to be one of them. What advice would you give to your younger self?
Stacey Rourke: Believe in yourself, stop trying to fit into boxes and norms you were never meant to fit into and just write.
Candie an Michelle: Excellent advice. What advice do you give to other aspiring authors?
Stacey Rourke: Read. It was Stephen King that said only by reading can writers gain the tools they need to write. I like to branch out in different genres, get different flavors and methods I can apply to my own writing!
Candie and Michelle: Well said Stacey! Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
Stacey Rourke: Thank you for all your support, I wouldn't be were I am today without you. And here is my promise to you; you keep reading them and I'll keep writing them!
Candie and Michelle: How can readers discover more about you and you work?
Stacey Rourke: They can find me at www.staceyrourke.com, www.facebook.com/staceyrourkeauthor, diaryofasemicrazyauthor.blogspot.com, or Twitter and Instagram @rourkewrites
Stacey's book "Steam" is out NOW!! Go check it out!!!
Thank you so much Stacey for taking the time to sit down with us. We both feel blessed to be featuring you this month.
-Candie and Michelle
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