One of my favorite things about being an author is the opportunity for creative expression. Writing allows me to express my thoughts, feelings, and ideas in a unique and creative way, which is incredibly fulfilling. I also love the storytelling aspect of writing. It gives me the chance to create characters, and stories from my imagination, bringing my ideas to life.
Completing a writing project, whether it's a novel, or an article, gives me a great sense of accomplishment. It's a tangible reminder of my hard work and dedication as a writer. Additionally, writing has brought me into a community of like-minded individuals who share my passion. Connecting with other writers provides me with support, encouragement, and inspiration.
Being a writer is a rewarding and fulfilling experience that allows me to learn, grow, and make a positive impact through my words.
What do you find is the most challenging part of being an author?
For me, finding an audience has been a challenge. It's tough to stand out among established authors. Building a platform with a website and social media presence has felt overwhelming. Marketing and promotion are crucial but challenging, especially with limited resources. The publishing industry is incredibly competitive, with thousands of new books released each year. It can be frustrating trying to get your book noticed. Sometimes, I just want to shout, "Give my book a chance!"
But, after reading some positive reviews, I'm confident that my audience is out there; I just need to find them!
How do you develop your plot and characters?
When I develop plot and characters in my writing, I typically start with a single idea that captivates me—a concept, theme, character, or setting that sparks my imagination. From there, I delve into creating my characters, fleshing out their backgrounds, motivations, and goals.
Once my characters are established, I outline the main events or plot points of the story, but I remain open to changes and developments that may arise during the writing process.
As I write, my characters often take on a life of their own, influencing the direction of the plot and leading to unexpected twists and turns. This organic development is where the magic of storytelling happens, as characters grow and change, and the plot becomes richer and more compelling. My ultimate goal is to create a story that resonates with readers.
Tell us about your road to publication.
When Beautiful One was finished, I was filled with such doubt, I shelved my story for five months because I didn’t think it was good enough. But then I decided, “What the heck? I’ve got nothing to lose.” So, I enlisted the help of a great friend of mine, and we tackled the dreaded “query letter.”
“The query letter, the query letter, it has to be perfect!” That’s all I heard from everyone, so writing the query letter freaked me out. And, if you’re in the midst of writing one, you know exactly what I’m talking about. After my query letter was finished, I emailed it to every publisher I thought would be a good fit for my story.
Beautiful One was rejected three times before it was signed with a publisher. Those first rejection letters felt like a personal blow. My feelings were triggered with self-doubt and disappointment. I started to question my abilities as a writer wondering if my work was good enough. Rejection is hard, especially with something so personal. The rational part of me knew that rejection was a natural part of the writing process, but the emotional part of me struggled. I had to remind myself that rejection didn’t define me as a writer. It’s just part of the process.
After those first three rejections, I received four positive responses expressing interest in publishing my manuscript. Each acceptance letter brought me such joy and validation, dispelling the doubt. And now, as I hold the published copy of 'Beautiful One' in my hands, I am filled not only with pride but also with gratitude for the journey that led me here.
The inspiration for Beautiful One came to me when I was dropping off my daughter in high school. As my daughter was gathering her things to exit the car, an overweight teenage girl walked by. My daughter glanced at her, looked at me and said, “Kids are so mean, it must be really hard to be overweight in high school.” That was the day the character, Elizabeth, was born and the idea for Beautiful One began.
Let's get a blurb:
Transformation, empowerment, love and music come together in the book, Beautiful One.
Elizabeth Ryan is a beautiful, shy, naïve high school senior. Having never dated she meets the boy of her dreams, Aidan Mitchell. Despite his history of womanizing Liz is drawn to him. Soon Liz becomes the envy of all the girls on campus, when they become a couple and her dream boyfriend sweeps her off her feet and into the dating world that is all too new and strange for her. When other guys start to take notice of Liz, Aidan is troubled with fits of jealousy.
Elizabeth then meets the ruggedly handsome, Spencer Hayes and they quickly bond over their passion for music. Liz begins to struggle with the feelings that spark between them.
In the end Elizabeth finds herself torn between helping Aidan overcome his jealousy and anger and giving into what her heart truly wants.
Want more? Let's get a quick excerpt:
The music changed from one song to the next, and I realized I was having fun. My feet were killing me, but I didn’t care. I had been keeping track of how many guys I’d danced with. Currently I was at seven. I smiled at Melissa when she and Mason were dancing intimately even though the song was upbeat.
I was laughing, sweating, and dancing my butt off. This was the best time I’d ever had.
Then my heart stopped.
I felt a lump in my throat and a pit in my stomach when I saw him, dressed in black jeans and a black button-down shirt. He was movie-star perfect as he sauntered across the dance floor. When I tore my gaze from him, I noticed the accessory that graced his forearm. A leggy blonde wearing a short red dress. Figures.
I was torn between wanting to excuse myself and run or torture myself and stay. Foolishly, I opted for the latter. My heart twisted with jealousy watching Aidan gyrate to the music while his pretty dance partner sexually rubbed up against him. The pain was agonizing. Like a train wreck. I wanted to look away, but I couldn’t.
What are you working on now?
I'm currently working on the sequel, "Beautiful Mess," which delves into the aftermath of the love triangle from "Beautiful One," centering on the character Elizabeth didn't choose. This character sets out on a journey of self-discovery, redemption, and rediscovering love. While I don't want to give away too much, readers can anticipate a heartfelt narrative that explores the complexities of relationships, healing and the search for inner peace.
What advice do you have for beginning writers?
Firstly, embrace who you are as a writer. Your voice, perspective, and experiences are unlike anyone else's, and that's your greatest asset. Don't try to imitate others or fit into a mold. Your authenticity is what will captivate your readers and make your work stand out.
Secondly, read as much as you can. Reading not only brings joy but also benefits you as a writer. It exposes you to different styles, genres, and techniques, sparking your imagination and enriching your writing. Pay attention to how authors structure their stories, develop their characters, and evoke emotions.
Like any skill, writing improves with practice. Set aside time each day to write, even if it's just a few minutes. The more you write, the more you'll learn about your strengths and weaknesses, and the better your writing will become.
Don't be afraid to revise and edit your work. Your first draft is just a draft. Be open to feedback from others but also trust your instincts. You know your story better than anyone else.
Connect with other writers. Writing can be solitary, but having a support system can make a big difference. Join writing groups, attend workshops, or participate in online forums. Surrounding yourself with other writers can be motivating and inspiring.
Rejection is part of the process. Every writer faces rejection. Instead of letting it discourage you, use it as motivation to improve. Even successful writers faced rejection early in their careers.
Believe in yourself and your work. Self-doubt is common, but you have a unique voice and a story that only you can tell. Trust in your ability to bring that story to life.
Writing is a process with ups and downs, challenges, and triumphs. Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep believing in yourself. You have a story to tell, so, tell it!
If you would like to know more about Beautiful One and Mary, here are her Buy Links and information on her website/social media contacts:
Buy Links:
Social Contacts:
https://www.marycopeauthor.com/
Instagram:
https://instagram.com/marycope_author?igshid=MjEwN2IyYWYwYw==
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/MaryCope_Author
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557161136038
Thank you, Mary for being my guest today. Any questions or comments for Mary?
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