Susi Interviews Michelle Day, Author
Prodigal Son, Father & Son, Cain’s Way
I love interviewing my favorite authors. For today’s author interview, I bring you Michelle Day, author of Prodigal Son, Father & Son and Cain’s Way.
Susi: How long have you been writing?
Michelle: I started the first draft of Prodigal Son at age fifteen. As I’m now in my forties, that’s quite some time.
Susi: When did your passion for writing begin?
Michelle: At secondary school. I was one of the few who enjoyed writing essays.
Susi: What is your favorite genre to write?
Michelle: I would have to say that depends on where my head is at. I thoroughly enjoyed writing Cain’s Way but I equally love the Jensens.
Susi: What books are you currently working on?
Michelle: I am working on book 3 of the Jensen Family Series which will be called Wayward Son and I’m also penning the second Tate Pack Novella which is called Loren’s Salvation. I’ve also just unearthed something that I started back in 2012. It’s another change of direction for me and it’s called Switch. I will concentrate a little more on that one once Wayward Son and Loren’s Salvation are out.
Susi: Wow, You are a busy woman. When do you write? Any specific routines?
Michelle: I have to be in a certain mindset to write and my characters need to be talking to me. I can write almost anywhere and don’t mind distractions, just don’t try to read over my shoulder. That’s a major irritation for me.
Susi: When not writing, what are your hobbies or interests?
Michelle: I read. A lot. I’ll read anything. I also like to research things which may happen to my characters and can get very involved in that.
Susi: What inspires you to write? Music, a muse?
Michelle: I always have music going. Certain tracks will inspire scenes or character traits. I also find it useful to have a muse. It’s always good to have something nice to look at.
Susi: Who were your muses for the Prodigal Son and Father & Son characters?
Michelle: For Paul, of course, Bernardo Velasco and for Gavin, Taylor Kitsch. I am still working on a muse for Matt. I can see him in my minds eye but he’s yet to take a physical form.
Susi: Who was your muse for Cain’s Way?
Michelle: Cain came to me in the shower with his description. I would have trouble putting a face to his character but once the picture was found that is on the cover, I knew that he was Cain.
Susi: How long does it generally take you to write a book?
Michelle: That depends on the book. Cain took one month which is a record for me. Father and Son took two years. I’m currently on a roll and being productive so I’d say typically for a full length novel, somewhere between nine to twelve months.
Susi: Describe a typical writing day for Michelle Day.
Michelle: Each day is different. Some days I will write all day. Others, I’ll write for an hour and be done with it. I do always start by going back over what was written the previous day and trying to pick up any spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors before I start to write again.
Susi: Do you have any advice to offer to any indie authors?
Michelle: Keep at it. It’s not always easy and I’ve felt like giving up especially as sales are low but I love my characters and have faith in them. I think as long as you believe in what you write, you will find your niche and with it an audience.
Susi: Your biggest mistake as a writer? If any?
Michelle: Not asking for help. I still don’t like to and as a result, I don’t know many people in the book world.
Rapid Fire
Pet Peeve: the your /you’re error
First thing you notice about a person: Eyes on meeting. Bum as they walk away.
Hidden talents: I don’t think I have any.
Currently Reading: Conviction. Nicole Edwards
Fave drink: Lime milkshake
Fave TV Show: Currently, Poldark
Fave Book: Black Beauty is a story that will always stay with me.
Fave Movie: Fast and Furious franchise
Any parting words from the author…
Watch this space, I have plenty of things planned for the Jensens. Can you imagine Paul with grandchildren?
Oh… Wow! I can’t wait for more Paul. As a grandfather, oh my!
Thank you Michelle for taking time from your busy schedule for this interview. Happy Writing!
~Susi
Reading and Writing Between the Wines Blog
Books by Michelle Day
Prodigal Son
Father & Son
Connect with Michelle Day
Reading & Writing Between The Wines Blog 