Interview with Desiree Williams

Hi everyone! Today we have fantasy author Desiree Williams with us! Desiree would describer herself as a dreamer by day and chocoholic by night. She lives in the beautiful state of Kentucky with her husband and daughter, where she juggles life as a wannabe supermom. She is a lover of food and avoider of dirty dishes. She delights in making people laugh and strives to bring hope and love with her wherever she goes.

Please join me in welcoming Desiree.

 

1) When did you realize you wanted to become a writer?

I’ve always been an avid daydreamer. There were times growing up that my parents thought me loco because I’d be lost in my own imaginary world giggling and staring into nothing. It wasn’t until I was much older that the epiphany moment occurred to put those daydreams onto paper and create stories out of them.

 

2) How do you write? What’s a normal writing day like for you?

My writing routine changes with the seasons and whatever demands life has on me at the time. With school starting back up for my family, my writing day begins in the wee morning hours—way before the sun rises. I aim to reach a min of 1K words (2K+ would be awesome) for each writing session. I’m a pantser by nature (however, I do brainstorm and plot), so I usually let my mind and heart dump words all over the page. Then during self-editing, I let the logical part of my brain hack the manuscript up to make sure plot points are covered.

 

3) Describe your feelings when you opened the box and saw the first published copies of your very first book?

Surreal. I remember thinking, “Holy cow, I made this.” To hold a physical piece of my heart, made possible through many sacrifices and tears, is a surreal moment that never gets old. Each new book written is a treasure I never thought I’d find.

 

4) What were some of the challenges for you writing your book?

Overcoming fears and self-doubt, which ended up playing a part in the story of Illusionary. Taking the emotional journey with those characters forced me to face several of my inner demons. Seeing those broken facets of my heart wasn’t easy.

 

5) What do you want readers to take away from your book?

It’s always my prayer that readers walk away with a sense of hope and encouragement. Life may not be what it seems, but it sure is a grand adventure. Sometimes it’s hard to see such an adventure through the storm clouds of life. And I pray my stories help readers see the light shining for them.

6) Soft shell or Hard Shell tacos?

Soft! Oooh, now I want some tacos.

 

7) Favorite place to vacation?

Depends on the season. Summertime, I’m all about the beach. But during the fall, I love escaping into the mountains.

 

8) Do you have a particular drink or food you consume when you write? Like cocoa, raspberry tea, chocolate?

Any drink with caffeine works for me, mostly coffee in the morning and tea in the afternoon. Also, I use dictation during my drafting stage and snacks don’t work out too well with microphones. However, chocolate and chips tend to be my steadfast companions during my editing/ revising stages.

 

9) Do you have a favorite Bible verse?

Yes! Well … I have lots of favorites. But one that has stuck with me through the years is Jeremiah 1:5, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” (NKJV) Even though God was speaking to the prophet Jeremiah, I like to put myself into the verse. God knew all about me before I was even born. I was set apart and called for a reason. My life has value and a purpose. And I’ve needed that reminder quite often in life.

 

10) Do you listen to music while you write? If so what are some examples?

Thanks to my A.D.D., I get distracted crazy easily. While I don’t listen to music during my writing session, I do listen to music before I start to get into the character’s head or get to the emotional place I need for the scene. For Illusionary, the song Neverland by Zendaya got repeated constantly. And for my current work-in-progress, Alone and Love With Your Life by Hollyn topped my playlist.

 

Thanks so much for having me on! Blessings to you. <3

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Thank you so much for joining us, Desiree! You can find out more about Desiree and her books at www.desireewilliamsbooks.com

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