Q&A with Jessica Tilles
Author of Anything Goes, Sweet Revenge, In
My Sisters’ Corner
When did you decide you wanted to write?
I've always been an avid reader, and one to pen short stories
in my spare time. It wasn't until 2002 when I decided to step
out on faith and write my first novel.
How
many novels in all have you written?
I have four published novels and about five novels that are
partially completed.
Do
you have a favorite?
I enjoyed writing all of my books, but I would have to say that
In My
Sisters' Corner is my favorite!
How
long did it take you to write your first novel?
I started
Anything Goes
on February 5, 2002 and completed it four weeks later.
Where
do you get your inspiration for your stories? Are the
characters based on real people?
A lot of my stories roll off the top of my head. For the most
part, all I need is a title and I can create a novel from there.
I was blessed with the gift of creativity. I use it to its
fullest potential. However, I do use the characteristics and
personalities of people I know to develop my characters. My
friends get a great kick out of seeing themselves in print.
After
writing your first novel, did you self-publish?? If so, how was
that experience?
Yes, I self-published and I loved it and still loving it.
Self-publishing has been the most rewarding experience of my
life. I couldn't imagine reaching the success that I've reached
without the hands-on knowledge, organizational skills, tools and
business sense I've gained over the last three years. BUT, don't
get it twisted. If I am approached by a mainstream publisher, I
will definitely hear what they have to say.
What
feedback have you received from fans?
The feedback has been overwhelming. I receive criticism, good
and bad, on a daily basis. I am honored to have people read my
work, and positively and constructively critique it and give me
story ideas. The readers have been just as enthused as I've
been. Saying things like, "You should have Raven do this," and
"Morgan should poison Arthur," and things of that nature. I love
it and welcome all emails. I respond to every email or letter I
receive.
What
authors do you admire? Did one of them inspire you?
I admire all authors. Writing the novel is easy, but when you
have to hit the pavements to market and promote it, I admire
you! However, I was inspired by Collen Dixon. She made the
whole writing and self publishing business look fun and easy. I
latched on to Collen, as well as Brenda L. Thomas and I didn't
let ago until I felt I was ready to fly on my own. You have to
grow thick skin in this business in order to survive.
Is
writing your only passion?
No, life is my other passion. I love living life and I enjoy
people. I'm a little social butterfly.
Where
do you see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years, I see myself with a small publishing house and
enjoying the fruits of my labor, in my mansion. *smile*
What
advice would you give aspiring authors?
One of my favorite authors is Eric Jerome Dickey. I read an
online interview he had given some time ago. In that interview,
he was asked the same question and his response was, "Do not
write as though someone is looking over your shoulder. Write for
you." That is the advice I would give. And, research the
publishing and writing industry until you're blue in the face.
Never, ever, embark on anything without doing your homework.
What would you like readers to learn from your stories?
Funny you should ask this question. I received an email from an
acquaintance who felt I should reflect more positive images in
my writing, as well as uplifting the community. He also felt I
should teach in my writings. Teach what? I write to entertain
myself and I hope that readers will come away from my novels
entertained. If readers come away feeling fulfilled in one form
or another, it is a blessing.
I did receive an email from a sister who thanked me for writing
In My
Sisters' Corner. It helped her to overcome the
issues she was dealing with within her marriage and the
infedelity of her husband. I'm glad she was able to walk away
with the feeling that she was a strong black woman and
could overcome any obstacle, as did the characters in the novel.
Are you working on another novel? What is it about?
I'm taking a breather! I just completed
Sweet Revenge,
the long-awaited sequel to
Anything Goes. You can visit my Web site
at
www.jessicatilles.com
to check out the excerpt. However, I do plan to start a new
novel next month. I'm not sure what it will be about, but I can
assure you it will be good. *smile*
Where
can people purchase your books? Do you have a website?
My novels are available at bookstores everywhere; just ask for
it, as well as Amazon.com, and
www.jessicatilles.com.
© 2001–2009 Jessica Tilles. All rights reserved.
