Interview with Dionne Bell author of Golden Choices
Q:When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?:
A:I would have to say I never “wanted to be a writer”, but instead realized that I NEEDED to write, in my the same way a vehicle needs fuel in order to operate. That realization can in my middle school years.
Q:How long does it take you to write a book?:
A:My debut novel, Golden Choices, took exactly two years to write: July 2012 until July 2014
Q:What is your work schedule like when you’re writing?:
A:I work a full time job, so I try to eek out 2 evenings per week and 4 hours during the weekend mornings. I find that my mind is most creative in the morning, so when I am finally able to write full-time, I would like to begin each day writing.
Q:What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?:
A:Music – I must have music playing when I write. Also, Post-It Notes! I have them everywhere. Whenever I get an idea, I have to write it down on a Post-It (or napkin, or envelope,etc) and add it to the collection.
Q:How do books get published?:
A:So far, I have 1 published book. I self-published Golden Choices. My options are open for the second novel, Redd, White & Blew.
Q:What do you like to do when you’re not writing?:
A:My favorites things to do when not writing include: reading, recording my YouTube show – TheImJustSayingShow, and spending time with loved ones.
Q:When did you write your first book and how old were you?:
A:My first book was completed in 2014, and I was 45 years old.
Q:Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?:
A:Ideas for my characters and storylines come from my imagination, personal experience, just a hodge-podge.
Q:What does your family think of your writing?:
A:My family is extremely proud, and exceptionally supportive.
Q:What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?:
A:Reading the finished product, I was pleasantly surprised that I had actually created a “real book”!
Q:How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?:
A:I have one published book, Golden Choices. I am currently writing my second novel.
Q:Do you have any suggestions to help me become a better writer? If so, what are they?:
A:If you have even the smallest interest in writing – go for it! First, make sure that you have something to say, then commence to writing. Get your ideas on paper, you can clean it up later. It is never too late to go for it; always remember that.
Q:Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say?:
A:I have heard mostly positive feedback from readers. A few people have expressed they prefer a different genre, however all responses have been that the book kept the readers’ attention, and that the characters seemed real to them.
Q:Do you like to create books for kids or adults? and Why?:
A:I like creating books for adults, because the subjects about which I write are a bit complex for children.
Q:What do you think makes a good story?:
A:A good story must have a point or a message, it should have characters to which the reader can relate, and it should evoke emotion.
Q:As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?:
A:The first job I ever wanted to have was a news anchor. Then, I wanted to be an actress. Now, when I grow up, I want to be WRITER!!!
Connect with Dionne Bell
Website : www.authordionnebell.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/AuthorDionneBell
About your book:
Golden Choices – The main character, Regina, has been searching for love and acceptance for much of her life. When she meets her future husband, Kevin Golden, Regina is fulfilled beyond words. Fulfillment turns into resentment as Kevin becomes increasingly busy with work. Regina learns that she is the object of interest for a supervisor at her workplace. Regina seems to have the support and loyalty of her friends a she tries to make the right choices. As is often the case in life, things are not always what they seem. This book puts the reader in the first seat of an emotional roller-coaster as the choices and consequences are revealed for Regina and her circle.