18Q Vicki M. Taylor

Vicki M. Taylor

1. Did you choose the writing profession or did it choose you?

It chose me. I’ve always loved writing. I just had to figure out a way to make it a profession.

2. What is your background? (education, work, etc.)

I have a degree in Computer Science. I started out as a programmer, but found I liked technical writing better so ended up with a career as a Technical Writer.

3. When did you ‘know’ you were a writer?

On some level, I’ve always known I was a writer. I’ve always known that I can communicate with the written word, but the moment was sealed when I held my book in my hand for the first time and knew that I could share my writing with others.

4. How would you describe your style of writing?

I write dramatic contemporary women’s fiction with strong female characters. I think about my character first, then build her world and life story around her until she becomes as real as she possibly can.

5. What is your writing process?

I write in spurts. I’ll write for days and then stop and not write for awhile, then start up again. Most of my writing takes place in the afternoon when I’m at my most creative.

6. What was your path to publication?

I was on medical leave from work when I realized I didn’t want to go back to the office ever again. I thought about what I wanted to do and writing was my first choice. My only choice. I joined writers’ groups, bought books on writing and immersed myself in the art. I learned a few hard lessons about how the publishing world works before I found Mundania Press.

7. What is your favorite self-marketing idea?

Contests. I have a drawing for a gift card at each of my signings. It gives me a chance to give back to those who read my books and I get a chance to add more readers to my mailing list. I also do the same with contests on my website.

8. What are the biggest surprises you’ve encountered as a writer?

How everyone seems to think that since you’re an author, you must know so-and-so.

9. How do you inspire yourself? What are your sources of creativity?

My writing is about real life. Real women. Reality inspires me. I find a lot of my ideas from the newspapers or magazines.

10. What is your proudest writer moment?

When my husband had the cover of my first novel blown up and framed. It was then that I really knew he supported my writing.

11. What’s the best advice you were given about writing?

To not stop reading. It’s so important to keep yourself immersed in the written word.

12. What is your most embarrassing writer moment?

Standing in front of a group of people, and suddenly realizing they came to see me. To hear me talk. I freeze up for a few seconds and stumble my words until I can pull myself back together.

13. What business challenges have you faced as a writer?

The business side of writing can be so boring. But it’s necessary. Someone has to do it. Even if that someone is you. I tend to leave things until they pile up. Then I do them all at once.

14. What is your writer life philosophy?

Write from your heart. Make each book the best it can be.

15. When you’re not writing what do you do for fun?

I love to read and watch movies. And, I have one weakness. My husband got me addicted to a computer game called World of Warcraft.

16. Who do you like to read?

I read a variety of authors. No one in particular order. Stephen King. Patricia Cornwell. Linda Howard. Sandra Brown. Lisa Gardner. Barbara Delinsky. Jodi Picoult. Piers Anthony. JK Rowling. There’s so many others; just too many to list.

17. What’s your advice for new writers?

Never give up on writing. And, keep reading. Feed the muse.

18. What are you currently working on?

A novel about an older woman with a large family who decides to open her home and heart to a young teenage mother and her baby.

Vicki’s 18Q