The second of back-to-back interviews, EA: Creatively Creative sits down with a writer whose work has made her a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. She has won awards such as the National Indie Excellence Book Award in 2012 for her novel Finding Emma, and the USA Book News Award in 2015 for her novel The Word Game. Introducing author Steena Holmes.
EA: When did you discover your passion for storytelling?
SH: I grew up hearing stories all the time from my dad. It’s probably what started it for me. I always loved to read, but honestly never thought I would be a writer, so it’s a dream come true!
EA: Who are the biggest influences in your life and career?
SH: I have a few very strong women in my life who have held me up when I needed it the most. These women push me to be a better person, a stronger woman, a more loving mother. It’s due to their support that I have the courage to create my own career and make it as successful as I can.
EA: What is your approach to writing?
SH: I always start with an idea. I then play with it for a bit, figure out my characters and then I start to write. The story comes alive while I’m writing. Dedication to sitting down and getting the words on the paper is a must for me - I have a minimum word count I attempt to beat each day.
EA: Tell us, what are some of the genres that you write or would like to write about?
SH: I write in Women’s Fiction and psychological suspense. I’d like to dive more in the the suspense/thriller realm.
EA: Do you believe writing a novel is easy?
SH: The person who believes writing a novel is easy is someone who has never attempted it. It’s one of the hardest things I’ve done. Not only are you daily combating your own self esteem, but you have expectation of others to write the best possible book you can. Every book I start and finish is a miracle.
EA: What is concept of The Forgotten Ones?
SH: The concept surrounding The Forgotten Ones is how far will we go to protect those we love? How many secrets can we keep buried before the weight destroys us? I love diving into the whole idea of secrets and how they affect everyone around us.
EA: What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
SH: Just start. Don’t be afraid of the words you’ve written. Don’t try to edit them while you write - just write. If you don’t start, you’ll never be able to finish.
EA: Finally, tell the readers why The Forgotten Ones will be a must read.
SH: Early reviews are calling this a twisty tale of secrets and suspense. If you give this book a try, I believe you’ll like it!
Epilogue
Usually the ones who believe writing is easy are usually the ones from the outside looking in, those who have never attempted it. Also true is battling your own self-esteem when venturing into writing. I've talked to people who have told me that they've always wanted to write, but haven't due to fear-- well, usually fear of the criticism of others-- but that actually goes back to one's self-esteem, and not being able to overcome what others may think.
I want to thank Steena for speaking with me. For more on Steena and her books, visit her website at www.steenaholmes.com.
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