Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born in California and moved to Missouri in 2000. I worked in retail management for 10 years before going into real estate. I retired in 2012 to pursue other interests.
I am an avid reader and especially enjoy novels that are Christian based. I like getting out in nature, especially the state parks. I love to capture the beautiful landscapes of the Ozarks in photography and I also do traditional landscape painting in oils and pastels. You can view my work on Fine Art America, Zazzle, and Society 6. I also enjoy digital art and writing poety.
I have been married for 25 years, have 4 grown daughters, 6 grandchildren and one great granddaughter.
I self published my first novel Jan.22, 2016 on Amazon.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My book is entitled, “The Zarion-Saving Mankind” and is science fiction novel. My writing has spiritual undertones due to my strong belief in my faith.
I have always been drawn to science fiction and enjoyed watching all the television shows like “Outer Limits” and “Twilight Zone.” when I was young. This particular story just fell into place as the characters came alive for me. Part of it was inspired by Revelation in the Bible.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
The only thing that may seem unusual, is the fact that I write with either music or the television on low in the background. This stems from my school days when I used to study with the tv going. Some old habits continue into adulthood.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
My favorite Christian author is James Rubart and his “Well Spring Series.” I admire the way he spins such an exciting tale with characters that seem so real. His descriptions make you feel like you are there yourself. He influenced the fiction novel I’m writing right now.
Next, would have to be William P. Young, “The Shack.” Similar subject matter with a little variation in style.
I’m also a big fan of C. J. Darlington and “The Thicker Than Blood” series.
I have taken some webinars from Jerry Jenkins and Rob Parnell. They both are excellent and I’ve learned a lot from them.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a Christian fiction novel called “A Walk with Heavenly Spirits.” It is about a young woman who has had lots of challenges in her life, was saved in her early years, but drifted away from the Lord. She is visited by several heavenly spirits who all have something to teach her. I hope to finish it in the next few months.
I also have plans for a sequel to “The Zarion” and a mystery novel.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I do what most other authors do. I use my email list, Twitter, and Facebook. I’m still learning about marketing my book to other various sites and continue to add them as I find them online. I have learned to appreciate how much you have to educate yourself when you self publish.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Learn as much as you can from professionals that are successful. Put your best effort out there for your readers and view your work as if you were the reader. It helps put things into perspective.
Don’t ever give up. Keep writing. Write often and set yourself schedules and surround yourself with good support people to motivate you.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t wait until you think you are good enough to publish. If you do that time may never come.
Just keep writing and get your message out there for others to read.
I was told by a very successful writer, not to join a lot of forums. Spend the time writing and learning your craft.
What are you reading now?
I’m reading “Stone of Fire” by J.F. Penn. I enjoy her webinars on writing and newsletters so I decided to read her novels. So far, I’m enjoying it a lot.
I’m also reading “Agents of Babylon by Dr. David Jeremiah.
What’s next for you as a writer?
To keep writing as inspiration comes to me. There are things daily to be inspired from. We just have to keep our eyes open.
I plan to complete the projects I have started before the end of the year.
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?
The Bible, Complete works by C.S. Lewis, Left Behind, Gone with the Wind, Little Women
Author Websites and Profiles
Julie (J.E ) Grace Website
Julie (J.E ) Grace Amazon Profile
Julie (J.E ) Grace’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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