Author to Author Q and A
Guest: Danielle Bienvenu
1. Where did you grow up? Did your childhood have any impact on your writing?
I’m a Southern girl. I grew up in Beaumont, Texas which is 45 minutes from the ocean, 45 minutes from Louisiana and about 3 hours away from Mexico. I think my childhood did have an impact on my writing. My childhood best friend introduced me to a writing competition which made me realize how fun writing can be. Also, the book I’ve been working on for a while takes place on Galveston Island and talks about Louisiana so there’s a lot of Southern and Cajun culture fused into it.
2. Tell us about the first story you ever wrote, published or not?
It was for the writing competition. I never entered it. It was the first in a series about pre-teen friends and their drama.
3. What are you currently working on, writing wise?
What Am I? It’s the Southern story I mentioned. It also has a paranormal feel to it. It’s the first of its sort I’ve ever written.
4. What is your favorite character you have ever created and why?
I think my favorite would be Sergeant Elijah Ryan in Sarah’s Secret. He is my ideal man only in fictitious form.
5. Do you have to write in order or do your ideas just come to you and you put them in order later?
My ideas generally come in order unless I wake up in the night and have an Eureka moment. Even when that happens it is normally for something later on in the story.
6. What was your path like until you found writing?
I was twelve years old when I found writing. I was already a professional model and actress. I was a cheerleader and had been dancing since I was born in almost every form of dance you could think of. I was focused on being in movies and behind the camera. I absolutely loved it.
7. How is your relationship with your publishing company?
I’m what people call and Indie writer so I don’t have a set publisher I’ve signed any contracts with. I have to say that Amazon has been the most positive experience for me although I have worked with other publishers.
8. Tell us about your covers.
The covers are the most difficult thing to find! It’s a nightmare.
9. What inspires you to write?
Normally, quiet moments in the day. I’ll stop and think about something that has happened or something that I would like to happen. Maybe I see something someone else is going through and revamp it.
10. How do you get book reviews?
I normally get my book reviews from other authors who want to read my work and then offer to write a review for me. The thing I like to stress is that I want honest opinions. Without honest opinions, how can I be expected to grow in my writing?
11. What is harder: writing, editing, or marketing?
I would say the most difficult would be marketing. I don’t have a degree in marketing. I’ve learned how to write on my own and edit on my own. None of which is easy. Writing is not for the faint of heart. I would love to learn how to better market my work.
12. If you could publish every book idea you’ve ever had, how many books would you have out right now?
Oh goodness. Thousands I am sure!
13. Have you ever considered co-writing a book or series with another author?
No, I haven’t. I’m open to the idea.
14. What do you do to relax?
I play guitar, write poetry, and until recently when I injured both my knees, I danced.
15. If you could tell your 14 year old self one thing, what would it be?
All the pain you feel will turn into something great. Don’t hesitate to use it in your work.
16. What advice would you have for this upcoming generation?
Be creative. Write what you would like to read and not what others want. I realize that is not a popular philosophy but as long as you write what you love, you will be happy with your work.
17. Have you ever read a book that changed your outlook on life?
As a childhood book I would have to say Tuck Everlasting. It’s still one of my favorites. In general, I would say the Bible.
18. Do you have a classic piece of literature or a classic author you are fond of? How about one that is overrated?
Tuck Everlasting, Shakespeare, Nicholas Sparks’ “Dear John”.
19. Any type of music that gets your writing juices flowing?
Not really. I’d say it’s more of comedy that gets my juices flowing especially when I am writing a comedy.
20. If you could pick three people who are your heroes or role models, who would they be and why?
Joan of Arc, Princess Kaiulani, Jesus Christ.
21. Dog or cat person?
I’m okay with cats but I am definitely a dog person. I have two Golden Retrievers, Duchess Annabelle and Toby Maximus.
22. What do you want to eat right now?
Currently I am eating green beans with basil and soy sauce. I would prefer an ice cream sundae.
23. If you could be in any movie that has already been made, which one would it be?
Must I choose? Ha. The Notebook. I’ve lived something similar so I think I could play it… decently.
24. What is your favorite holiday or time of year?
Christmas! I enjoy the carols, lights, fires, family, food, and parties.
25. Anything else you would like to add?
Thank you for having me!
To learn more about Danielle and her amazing works, go to her website.