Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Meri, and I live in Texas with my husband and three children. I started writing a few years ago. It all started after I read a book by one of my favorite writers. She writes about Disney villains, and though she does so very well, this particular story I felt could have been better. I decided to try to write such a tale myself. I found that I had a great passion for writing, and before I knew it… I was writing another. I have now written three books, and I am on my way to the fourth.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Blood in the Water: The Lost Tale of Captain Hook is my latest creation. In all honesty, I was rather surprised that out of all the villains, I chose Hook. I am a Disney fanatic, but the tale of Peter Pan and Captain Hook was never my favorite. Still, my heart and soul poured into the story as if by magic. I grew to love my characters the more they came alive. If I had to say what inspired my book, it would be the other fairytale retellings I have read and loved. I think every story has two sides, and I think people will be quite surprised to hear things from Captain Hook’s point of view.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like to put on YouTube, and listen to creepy short-stories before I start writing. It gets me in the mood to write.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Serena Valentino- Fairest of All
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
This is my first- so far.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Let your passion take the wheel. You might be surprised how far you’ll go.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Nothing last.
What are you reading now?
Nothing right now, though I am waiting for a new book that will be released in July.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Once I am done with editing the Wonderland story, I am excited to start on the third and final book in the series. I think my readers will be thrilled to discover what villain comes next.
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?
Harry Potter, Grimm Fairy Tales, Fairest of All, and my book.