Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Basically I grew up in Miami (all hail the 305 🙂 ) and moved back to my birth country back in 2011 because I knew that I needed to make a major change. I used to write fiction years ago and through a series of events decided to give it a shot. I shared it with Sable Hunter, who is the founder of Beau Coup and well, she liked it. So the Baxter Family Saga was born in Dec 2013 and in January I published my fourth book with Beau Coup, Eyubea Girls, the first in a new series called Growing Wild. There’s more to come!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Eyubea Girls is my first foray into historical fiction. It was inspired by the 2014 World Cup (Go Netherlands) and I just got this idea for a young woman teaching girls her passion for football in Africa at the beginning of the 20th century. The outline was simple enough and then I started writing and researching and well, that’s when the REAL story revealed itself.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Honestly, i don’t think I do. I just write how I feel I need to write a story. Everyone has their own way…
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Lot’s of authors and books. I would have to say the classics like Jane Eyre, Pride and Prejudice, Their Eyes Were Watching God as well as contemporary books by authors like Anne Rice, Ken Follett, Barbara Taylor Bradford. The list is long…
What are you working on now?
Right at this moment, I am taking a break as Eyubea Girls took me a bit to write AND I had a special writing project that I’ll reveal to my fans/followers on my page when it’s time. So I’m reading right now which I don’t get enough time to do but I’m so glad when I can. I will be starting a NEW series (hopefully) by Feb/March so that will be my next project. I’m excited about it and look forward to introducing some new characters and stories
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Honestly, I’m still discovering that. I’m working on finding out what works and what doesn’t. I’m a Twitter-lover so I’m a staple on there for sure. I do some Facebook and am slowly wading into Google + a bit more. I have a list of avenues I’ve bookmarked for different promotions so as I investigate those methods, I’ll come up with a streamlined plan of action for promotion
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t expect that your first book will be the book to end all books. This is a marathon and if you’re in it for fame and money from the start…you’ll just make yourself miserable. If you LOVE writing, can’t help it and just love to tell a good story. Keep writing. Work to get better and do your research.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Basically to just keep writing anyway. You may think it stinks but keep writing no matter what and also keep reading. The two go hand in hand
What are you reading now?
I am reading North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell. It’s a period piece that takes place in England. LOVED the movie so I decided to check out the book. So far so good.
What’s next for you as a writer?
2015 is the year that I introduce at least 2 new series and tie off the main Baxter Family series. I have one more book there and that will introduce a couple of characters that have been rolling in my head for about 2 years. It feels intense and I’m looking forward to diving into that story for sure
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?
Believe it or not, the Bible would be one. I’m not religious but I respect the stories in there. A compilation of Greek and Roman myths and legends, if such a tome exists. A book about paranormal stories. I had it and forgot the name but I know the cover and would love to have that. And and a dictionary with Thesaurus because I really need it.
Author Websites and Profiles
Palessa D Website
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