Author Spotlight: Amanda Mackey

April 18, 2016 • News

1) How did you get started as an author and what made you want to pursue that field?

I began my writing journey in my twenties after getting inspiration for a book after watching the movie Titanic on the big screen. It was weird because something just hit me out of the blue. A story in my head that I knew I had to write down. I had no computer so I penned a rough outline on paper. I had been reading since a young child so writing became an extension of my love for reading

2) What hurdles have your overcome while striving towards your goals?

The writing industry is extremely tough. For years, I struggled with getting my writing out there. Mainstream publishers were the only avenue and after sending what felt like were hundreds of manuscripts and receiving just as many rejections, I almost gave up. My work sat for years not doing anything until the Publishing world opened up with the arrival of Amazon and other smaller presses and publishers willing to take on writers without an agent.

3) Which novel has been your favorite to write and why?

My absolute favorite to write was the 2 book Instinctual series. I literally had the whole story in my head from start to finish and had no trouble writing it. There weren’t enough hours in the day to write the thoughts in my head. Set in Italy, which is one of the countries I want to visit most, I loved researching places for the book, which in real life, I’d love to visit.

4) For those looking to become an author, what advice would you give them?

Just start! Beginning is the hardest. Write a first draft, even if you think it doesn’t make sense. Put down your thoughts on paper. The second draft is for going back and beginning to turn it into something magical. Read a lot! Reading definitely helps your writing. Most authors do read so this isn’t normally an issue. If you can find a critique partner who isn’t afraid to point out your mistakes, this will help you immensely!

Don’t take the rejections to heart, just keep on writing! Write for yourself and not for money. NEVER give up. Believe in yourself and your ability!

5) Favorite motto?

If you don’t climb the mountain, you can’t see the view.

In other words, writing is hard work. The climb up to finishing a book can be tedious and mentally challenging but when you reach that summit with your first book out there, the blood, sweat and tears was all worth it.

6) In one word, how would you describe your writing style?

Emotional.

7) Which author inspires you the most and why?

As a kid, I grew up on Enid Blyton books so I think she very much paved the way for my writing style and love of books. As I got older, Virginia Andrews became a favorite with her ability to be able to immerse me in her stories.

Now? Wow. There are too many to mention. With over 500 books on my e-readers (yes, I have more than one!) there have been so many great authors, I’ve come to love. Stephanie Meyer, Addison Moore, Becca Fitzpatrick, Jamie McGuire to name a few.

8) What is your writing process like?

I am very much a Panster. I typically fly by the seat of my pants. Some authors are so organized and have each chapter broken up into sub-chapters etc. I don’t. I get an idea in my head for a story and normally scribble down the main outline in a book. It is very basic. Then, I just begin. The story comes to me as I’m writing, normally. I have learned to write down character outlines though because when you are halfway through a book and need to remember the eye color of a character, it pays to have it written down.

9) Goals for the remainder of the year?

I’m currently finishing a book for my Publisher. I have two books coming out mid-year. I’ve just finished Once an Angel, collaborating with Christopher John and Adam Roc which I’ve enjoyed. I already have a book in my head waiting to come out so things are going to remain busy.

10 What new projects are you currently working on?

My current work in progress is challenging. Book 1 was set in Arizona Stare Prison. Book 2 which I am working on revolves around a newly released criminal attempting to find his special needs brother who has been abducted by his foster parent.

11) Any final thoughts you would like to share with the CJC Photography readers?

Thanks to all my readers for taking the time to immerse themselves in my world. Your support means I get to keep doing what I love on a daily basis. I love reading reviews, good or bad because it keeps me grounded and striving to be a better writer. While I have stories in my head, waiting to be told, I’ll continue to write. PEACE. LOVE. xx

“Once An Angel” is now available for purchase here!

Connect with Amanda Mackey on Facebook.

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