Indie Author Interview with Maria Elena Martinez - Author of the Suspense / Thriller Novel Never Knew.
Maria Elena Martinez lives in Coral Gables, Florida and cares for her Cuban mother, who is disabled. When Maria Elena is not behind the computer, her time is spent with her mother and the rest of the not so small family. Her Shichon dog, Minnie, keeps her active and entertained. A cup of Cuban coffee is a must at least once a day. And, following her dream to be a writer was inspired by her father, who was a lover of literature, classic movies, and music.
Interview with Maria Elena Martinez
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| Author Maria Elena Martinez |
Maria Elena Martinez: I have been writing since high school when my passion started to develop. I have a Bachelors Degree in English Literature and have taken several courses in creative writing.
Who are your favorite writers, your favorite books, and who or what are your writing influences?
Right now I am a huge fan of Willow Rose’s suspense, horror, and thriller novels. I read almost anything by her. My favorite is the Emma Frost Series. However, I also enjoy classic writers like Agatha Christie and Edgar Allan Poe.
When did you first know that you wanted to be a writer?
I’ve wanted to be a writer ever since high school.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
I’ve written many stories over the years but I do remember that when I started to write, my novels were in a different genre than what I write now. I was into horror and ghost stories back then.
Tell us about your writing process. Do you have a writing routine?
My routine is to write in the early morning and in the evening since I spend the day taking care of my mother.
Please, describe your desk/workplace.
I have a desk in front of a window that faces towards the front of the house. That way I can see what is going on outside and don’t feel enclosed in a room.
"I let my characters tell me what they want [...]"
What do you find easiest about writing? What the hardest?
Writing isn’t easy especially since I don’t outline or plan what I am going to write. I let my characters tell me what they want so the hardest part is after the first draft and fixing all the inconsistencies into a believable story.
"I enjoy doing the research [...]"
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
I enjoy doing the research and a putting it all together into the story.
Maria, please tell us a little about your Suspense Novel Never Knew.
Never Knew is a novel that was originally written in my twenties and has been revised and rewritten many times but when it was picked up again, I realized that all those stories about Lexi could be turned into a series. That’s how this novel became what it is now.
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| Click to Read an Excerpt |
What inspired you to write the book?
I’ve always wanted to write a book but it wasn’t until my goddaughter, Chanel Cleeton, published her first novel that I began to believe that I could do the same. My inspiration came from her.
Who do you see as your target audience?
I imagine my target audience to be women in their thirties who are mothers and are working that need a little distraction at the end of the day with a story that isn’t too intense but holds their interest with a little romance and plenty of intrigue.
What makes your book special?
I consider my novel a cozy suspense. It’s not a genre but it’s how I classify what I write since there isn’t blood and gore or too much romance. It’s a mild dose of adventure.
How would you describe the success of your self-published books so far?
I think the novel is doing well but could be doing better.
"[...] concentrate on getting their first draft on paper first then revise and edit"
Can you give some advice for other Authors regarding the writing process?
I feel it’s important for a writer to concentrate on getting their first draft on paper first then revise and edit as many times as possible. However don’t ever publish anything without a professional edit and revising what has been done. There’s nothing worse than realizing there’s a mistake in your novel that shouldn’t be there.
Are you working on another book project? Can you tell us a little about it?
Yes. I am currently working on the second book in the Lexi Series. Never Knew is the first book in the series. There are also other projects in the works but nothing concrete yet.
"[...] the book market will increase."
Where do you see the book market in 5 or 10 years? Will there be only eBooks and will book stores disappear like record stores disappeared?
I feel the book market will increase. I don’t think major stores will be around but there will be many independent stores. The market for books isn’t going away. It’s just changing for the interest of the reader.
What is your e-reading device of choice?
I have a tablet for when I read in bed and use the laptop when I’m at my desk. Reading at my desk is easier because I’m not tempted to fall asleep and can also switch between writing and reading when necessary.
Do you write full-time or do you have a day job? When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
I do not have a day job. I spend my days taking care of my mother, who is disabled. I revolve my schedule for writing around her.
How can readers connect with you?
I would like readers to connect with me on Twitter. It’s my preferred social media. You can find me at Ma_EMartinez. I also have Facebook and Instagram.
Thank you very much for the Interview, Maria.
About the Book Never Knew
Lexi believes she can trust Mark, her grandfather’s accountant and an old friend from elementary school. Staying in contact hasn’t been easy but he always sent her messages through her grandfather.
However, Mark might not be the person she remembers.
Lexi needs to start trusting the right people in order to keep herself safe in this suspense about friendship.
- "Of course, things get more complicated when her old friend and her boyfriend don’t seem to get along too well. Could Mark be in love with her? And what kind of secrets were they hiding? Who was she in love with? Both? Neither? That whole war of the roses between them was just crazy! [...] This was an enjoyable read." - Sandra's Book Reviews
Link to the Book
Link to the Paperback Never Knew on Amazon
Link to the eBook Never Knew on Amazon
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