Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello, I’m Jessica. The Missing Piece is my debut novel and I’m so excited to share it with the world. 🙂 I love writing and hope to share many more books in years to come.
I love all things Disney or Harry Potter. I enjoy crafting and making fun things with my circuit for my house or for my four daughters. I currently live in Idaho with my little family. We enjoy hiking, geocaching and spending time outdoors as a family.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The last book I’ve written is called The Missing Piece. It’s a sweet, fun. Disney-obsessed YA romance.
I would say a lot of inspiration from this book came from my interactions during high school and my early college years. I think the biggest similarity to my book and my life is that just like Emily I was discovering who I was at the time and trying to find my place in the world. While Mason isn’t based off of anyone particular, he was inspired by some of the boys I dated during high school and college. Ian on the other hand, is sweet, kind and thoughtful. The inspiration for Ian comes from my sweet husband (although the only things they have in common are the accent and the total nerdiness).
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t think it’s super unusual, but I do enjoy listening to music while I write. I know a lot of my writing friends can’t stand having music on while writing because it can be too distracting, but I find it inspires me and keeps my motivation going. I like to switch up what I listen to depending on how I’m feeling or based off the scene I am writing. Recently, I’ve been listening to a lot of Taylor Swift.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Harry Potter has to be at the top of the list since this series is what really developed my love for reading and writing. I also really love anything by Sarah Dessen. Her books are pure gold; I could read them over and over again. John Green is also another favorite.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a mini series called Shut Up & Write, which I plan to post to my wattpad (https://www.wattpad.com/user/Whachareading) and inkitt (https://www.inkitt.com/JBaxter10).
I have also been working on book two in The Missing Piece series. Ian and Emily’s story isn’t over quite just yet. I plan on introducing new characters and hopefully writing a trilogy.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Honestly, I am still working on figuring this out. I’ve done lots of free ebook giveaways through Kindle Direct Publishing. I’ve also found this website (https://kindlepreneur.com/list-sites-promote-free-amazon-books/) that has lots of really great resources to promote books.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Absolutely! Don’t give up on chasing your dream. Writing a book isn’t easy, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do it. Surround yourself with good writing buddies who support you and help keep you motivated. Don’t be afraid to share your work and get it peer-reviewed. I know this can be scary, but if we don’t put ourselves out there we won’t be able to grow.
When those moments of doubt consume you and you think you’re not good enough, take a break. There is nothing wrong with not writing every single day. If you’re stuck, frustrated step away from your writing for a few days and pick up a book in the genre you’re trying to write.
If you like challenging yourself or are looking for good writing friends, join your local Nanowrimo group. They’ll push you to write a book in a month and motivate you. Even if you don’t finish writing a book in a month, you’ll make some good friends and feel a lot more confident in your writing.
When your inner critic is nagging you and telling you the story, scene or whatever you’re writing isn’t good enough: Dim your screen. Try not to think about what you’re writing or if it makes sense and just write.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
One of my college professors told us about a post-it he had sitting next to his computer that said, “Shut up & Write.” While he didn’t directly tell this to our class, I took it to heart and have tried to apply it while writing.
What are you reading now?
Like most avid readers, I tend to read a lot all at once. Currently I’m listening to the audible version of the Sherlock Homes stories read by Stephen Fry (hands down my favorite narrator. He also reads Harry Potter and the Ickabog!) I’m also reading the Icakbog by J.K. Rowling, Part of Your World by Liz Braswell, Duel at Broken Furniture in by JF Lee and with finishing up Midnight on the Moon (Magic Treehouse Series) by Mary Pope Osborne with my daughters. 🙂
What’s next for you as a writer?
My next goal as a writer is to get back into a habit of writing; I don’t follow a strict schedule, but after my youngest was born last year and with homeschooling due to COVID, it’s been hard to get into the habit of writing, so I really want to focus on that.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Wow, only three or four books . . . that sounds so difficult.
The first book I’d bring would be the Book of Mormon. I know religion isn’t for everyone and that’s okay; I’m proud of who I am because of my religion and grateful for the comfort and peace the gospel brings me. The Book of Mormon has shaped me into the person I am today; it has made me a better wife, mother, daughter and friend and has got me through countless difficult times. I know that if I got stranded on a desert island this book would help give me hope and peace.
For my second book, I’d choose something light and fun to read like the complete works of Jane Austen. I love Pride and Prejudice and it would give me something fun to do while passing the time.
My last two books would be more practical. Maybe a book that talks about which wild plants are safe to eat/use for medicine purposes. Then a book all about survival skills, so hopefully I could make it off the island at some point.
Author Websites and Profiles
Jessica Baxter Website
Jessica Baxter Amazon Profile
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