Dragon Soul Press presents an interview with Katie Jordan, featured in Mistletoes and Mayhem.
1. When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
I first wanted to become an author in kindergarten. Creating characters, dilemmas, and unique worlds, brings an excitement and joy that makes me feel powerful.
2. What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
The 3-Day Novel Contest is my kryptonite. I also have a dystopian novelette published in AND MAN GREW PROUD that was written in just 7 days. Writing under time constraints brings out the best and the worst in me. I love it!
3. Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?
Dreams, thoughts, and random recollections are the driving force behind my ideas. People typically focus on the ‘where’, but I think the intensity behind thoughts, and the motivation to get them on paper, is more important. When you can write with fire, you will produce something that lights up readers imaginations.
4. What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
I am a full-time mombie. Favs include wearing pajamas on every day of the week that ends with ‘day’, hoarding chocolate, and snuggling my mini mes.
5. How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?
I am published in three anthologies and hope to be in a few more in the next couple years, before switching my focus to full length novels.
Charity anthologies are a current favorite.
All proceeds from MAGIC WE’VE FORGOTTEN go to Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana. All proceeds from MISTLETOES AND MAYHEM go to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. These are both intriguing books supporting great causes.
6. Did you ever consider writing under a pseudonym?
Definitely. Finding a writing name was no easy feat. I wanted to use a unique alias or initials, but the ones that appealed to me were taken. I kept it old school and stuck to using my first and last name.
7. Do you try more to be original or to deliver to readers what they want?
I used to aim for originality but am starting to understand the importance of delivering content for the readers. Writing character flaws is something I enjoy, but it’s not always what readers want. I am working on a women’s fiction novel where the MC is vilified for all the wrong reasons and continually responds with unrelenting determination and strength. It’s my own personal challenge to give readers everything they want, including a strong female MC and ample opportunities for conflict.
8. What was an early experience where you learned that language had power?
Who wasn’t giddy when they heard the stories of Stone Soup, The Little Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly, or Strega Nona? Listening to stories as a child was my favorite. Those stories belonged to a world I wanted to be part of.
9. How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?
Many! My works in progress include fantasy, science fiction, women’s fiction, and NA novels. I would like larger blocks of time to give these the final editing they deserve, so it will be at least two years before I’m able to complete and query these. (Maybe earlier for the fantasy book).
10. Where can readers learn more about you?
Dragon Soul Press 