Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I write because reading and writing are my favorite things to do. I am thankful to every author who puts out a great book, and I’m always looking to discover new authors.
I write both fiction and nonfiction. Everything I write is inspired by the paranormal and by spiritual/transpersonal psychology, as this is the lens I see through when I look at life.
I wrote “Bodysculpting for Bombshells”, a nonfiction book of positive body image for women and fitness training, and “The Creed”, a novel of romantic magical realism.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “Keep Smiling, Your Teacup is Levitating – Ghosts, Premonitions and Other True Stories Boyfriends Couldn’t Tolerate”.
I began this book earlier this year when I had an intuitive vision that my current life would fall apart. I was frightened due to the utter uncertainty I was facing, but then realized that I had always followed intuitive insights, psychic premonitions and a sense of intuitive guidance. As I wrote the book, I remembered I had perceived ghosts and witnessed paranormal events. I also realized that while I lived by intuitive guidance, I had also questioned the validity of intuitive hunches, and even questioned my mental health.
This book is very personal, vulnerable and entirely true. I included techniques I use to “tune into” intuitive guidance, hoping that my experiences will assists others in validating and following their intuition in times of need.
When I recorded an audio version of this book, which is available for free download on my website, the studio I was recording in was seriously haunted. I listened to a poor quality track and found that I had unknowingly recorded the voice of a disembodied spirit. She says nothing but “hi”, but it was a validation of what I was sensing, which I find fascinating every time.
I know not everyone will believe the truthfulness of the story or the authenticity of the ghost voice, but I included the ghost voice as a bonus track to assist others who may experience paranormal phenomena and question their sanity the way I used to.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I would never write in pajamas. I think it is insulting to the muses. When I sit down to write, which is daily, I wear dresses I find beautiful, wear jewelry and makeup. I think that showing up for work dressed accordingly signals to the unconscious that I intend to be at my best to do my best work.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Authors and books that inspire me change every few weeks, depending on what I am interested in. I am currently reading paranormal memoirs. My current book was influenced by Judith Orloff’s “Second Sight”, and Sonia Choquette’s “Diary of a Psychic”. Both authors crossed genres by balancing memoir with helpful techniques to access intuitive guidance. I found that I prefer memoirs which deviate from their genre and offer practical advice I can learn from.
I also liked the self-published author S. Vest” “Angels, Ghosts and the Otherworld: A paranormal memoir”. It’s a stunning account of her experiences as a medium.
What are you working on now?
I am finishing the sequel to “The Creed”, which is called “The Creed – Siren Song”. It is a novel of romantic magical realism, which I define as magical events happening in real life to ordinary people.
Since I received very moving feedback for “Keep Smiling, Your Teacup is Levitating”, I am thinking about writing another book about utilizing the 6th and 7th sense, mediumship, and animal communication. I think it is helpful to remember that we have transpersonal inner resources we can draw from when confronted with loss, unexpected life change or traumatic events.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still working on finding the best method or websites. I like Awesomegang, obviously, or I wouldn’t post here. I wonder if a “best method” exists. If anyone knows the “best method”, please contact me immediately.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I believe in honoring the craft of writing by taking classes. I take creative writing classes at UCLA extension. Novel structure is not something we can learn by reading alone.
I also think we need to learn about the business of self-publishing. My current favorite is Nick Stephenson’s online course “Your First 10K Readers”. I read every single newsletter of his, because his advice is both humerous and strategic.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Hemingway: “The first draft is sh*t”.
Also Hemingway: “Novel writing is architecture, not interior design”.
What are you reading now?
I am reading a hilarious self-published Iraq solder’s memoir called “Does My Suicide Vest Make Me Look Fat?”
I was looking for paranormal memoirs but stumbled on the title, which I found irresistible.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Writing. Working on my craft. Seeking mentorship. Working on producing the best work possible while learning about building a platform and creating meaningful interaction with my email list subscribers.
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?
If I was stranded on an island and I could only bring 3-4 books, I would cry. I would hope I can salvage my tablet and the island has internet connection so I can continue discovering new books and remarkable authors.
Author Websites and Profiles
Vivi Stutz Amazon Profile
Vivi Stutz’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile