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How do you develop your characters and ensure they feel authentic and relatable to readers?
I start by creating a character profile, I jot down basic details like their name, age, appearance, and background. Next, I define their goals and motivations, digging deep to understand what drives them. I give them strengths and weaknesses to make them more relatable and complex. I then develop a detailed backstory for my character, exploring how their past experiences have shaped who they are. I consider their relationships with others, including family, friends, and romantic partners.
In my writing, I show my character's personality through their dialogue and actions, allowing readers to understand them better. As the story progresses, I allow my character to evolve, changing and growing based on their experiences.
I also draw inspiration from real-life people and events to create more authentic and relatable characters.
What’s the favorite part of the writing process for a writer?
My favorite part of the writing process is when inspiration strikes and I get that initial spark of an idea. I love developing that idea, fleshing it out, and watching it grow into a full-fledged story or concept.
I really enjoy creating characters and bringing them to life on the page. It's exciting to explore their personalities, backgrounds, and motivations, and to see how they interact with each other and the world around them.
The first draft is where I feel most free as a writer. I love being able to let my ideas flow without worrying too much about perfection, knowing that I can always go back and revise later.
As a published author, one of the most rewarding aspects of writing is connecting with readers who are touched or inspired by my work. It's incredibly fulfilling to know that my words have resonated with others.
How important do you think social media and online platforms are for modern authors?
I believe social media is extremely important for modern authors. Twitter, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram can help you reach an audience far beyond what you might have imagined. However, navigating social media can be challenging, especially when it comes to gaining followers and addressing issues like bots and hackers.
For example, my Facebook author page was recently hacked, resulting in being locked out of my account and losing all of my 900 hard-earned followers. It was so frustrating, I literally wanted to cry. Despite the setback, I will continue to reach out, rebuild my fanbase and try and reach new followers.
Can you share any details about your current work in progress?
I'm currently working on the sequel, "Beautiful Mess," which delves into the aftermath of the love triangle from "Beautiful One," centering on the character Elizabeth didn't choose. This character sets out on a journey of self-discovery, redemption, and rediscovering love. While I don't want to give away too much, readers can anticipate a heartfelt narrative that explores the complexities of relationships, healing and the search for inner peace.
Transformation, empowerment, love and music come together in the book, Beautiful One.
Elizabeth Ryan is a beautiful, shy, naïve high school senior. Having never dated she meets the boy of her dreams, Aidan Mitchell. Despite his history of womanizing Liz is drawn to him. Soon Liz becomes the envy of all the girls on campus, when they become a couple and her dream boyfriend sweeps her off her feet and into the dating world that is all too new and strange for her. When other guys start to take notice of Liz, Aidan is troubled with fits of jealousy.
Elizabeth then meets the ruggedly handsome, Spencer Hayes and they quickly bond over their passion for music. Liz begins to struggle with the feelings that spark between them. In the end Elizabeth finds herself torn between helping Aidan overcome his jealousy and anger and giving into what her heart truly wants.
Read an Excerpt
The music changed from one song to the next, and I realized I was having fun. My feet were killing me, but I didn’t care. I had been keeping track of how many guys I’d danced with. Currently I was at seven. I smiled at Melissa when she and Mason were dancing intimately even though the song was upbeat.
I was laughing, sweating, and dancing my butt off. This was the best time I’d ever had.
Then my heart stopped.
I felt a lump in my throat and a pit in my stomach when I saw him, dressed in black jeans and a black button-down shirt. He was movie-star perfect as he sauntered across the dance floor. When I tore my gaze from him, I noticed the accessory that graced his forearm. A leggy blonde wearing a short red dress. Figures.
I was torn between wanting to excuse myself and run or torture myself and stay. Foolishly, I opted for the latter. My heart twisted with jealousy watching Aidan gyrate to the music while his pretty dance partner sexually rubbed up against him. The pain was agonizing. Like a train wreck. I wanted to look away, but I couldn’t.
About the Author:
Website: https://www.marycopeauthor.com/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/marycope_author?igshid=MjEwN2IyYWYwYw==
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MaryCope_Author
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557161136038
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-One-Mary-Cope/dp/1505601800
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