Good afternoon, everyone!
Today, I am very excited to bring to you an interview with author Jessica Brimer. Jessica is a Tennessee native who, as she puts it, spends most of her time writing and far more time browsing the bookshelves at her local library.
You can also catch an exclusive interview with Jessica this FRIDAY, Oct. 13, on our brand-new podcast, also called BOOKMARKED. Draco will be talking with Jessica about all things books!
So, without further ado, here is my Q&A with Jessica. Make sure to catch her in our fifth installment of "These Haunted Hills," available now on JCP's website and on Amazon.
BOOKMARKED: So, where does your love of writing come from, and how did you first get into writing?
JESSICA BRIMER: I was the girl in school who wrote stories rather than did school work. (I don't recommend this. Ha!) Writing stories has always fascinated me. I remember writing my first story in first grade and having an urge to do another one. As time went on, I wrote more and more. However, I was also the girl with bad grammar. It was so bad that my parents had to take me to Sylvan Learning, an after-school tutoring session. It helped, but I still struggled. In high school, I kept my hobby to myself. Teachers and friends bashed my work, and I was afraid of criticism.
It wasn't until years later, when I wrote a story over one hundred thousand words, that I realized I could write. Of course, I had lots of typos, but I had a passion. During that time, I was on a documentary fix. One actor stood out to me. If he could overcome a speech problem and become a famous actor, why can't a girl with bad grammar overcome it and be an author?
The following years, I learned more about writing, read more books, joined a writer’s group, and got a computer program to help point out mistakes. God also blessed me with a husband who excels in English. He helped me improve my skills. Eight novels later, I submitted my cozy series to a small publisher, and they accepted "A Binding Chance."
What sparked your fascination with the mystery genre in particular?
When I first got serious about writing, I wrote fantasy. It took me a few novels to see that my true passion lies in mysteries. I’ve always loved the genre, the characters, and the overall "trying to figure out the puzzle" before the big reveal. Everything about the mystery genre fascinates me.
Can you recommend a few of your favorite mysteries?
There are so many authors to choose from. The authors who really spoke to me in the cozy genre are Vicki Delany and Julie Anne Lindsey. I love all their books. These women have a way of bringing out the characters, and villains too. The way they describe their setting is wonderful. I can always picture the scene vividly and hope to be half as good a writer.
What is your biggest advice for someone trying to get into writing?
Don't give up! Writers struggle with writing, published ones included. So many times, I wanted to throw in the towel and considered doing something else with my life. Writing isn't a normal job and not a fast money maker. Writers are not guaranteed a contract after receiving a college degree. It’s hard, but you can overcome your struggles by embracing your passion.
Do you ever get writer's block? If so, how do you overcome it?
Sometimes. When I do, I play a game called, “What will never happen?” My first ideas are often silly and outlandish. But the more I think about different scenarios, it gets the creative juices flowing and eventually leads me to what will happen next. It's a fun game that works for me. However, it can also be distracting.
What is your story in These Haunted Hills: Book 5 about, and how did you get the inspiration for that?
When I joined my online writer’s group, I was experimenting with genres, including horror. The premise of a kid going to a haunted house with their dog hit me, and it stuck. I had fun writing it, but had no desire to write a full-length novel. So, for years, the story stayed on my laptop until I saw Jan-Carol Publishing seeking submissions for "These Haunted Hills." I wanted to give my story a try. I rewrote the entire story while maintaining the premise. I’m thrilled that Jan-Carol accepted "Overhill Cottage" to be a part of the anthology!
Here is a little synopsis of my short story, "Overhill Cottage":
Tucked in the mountains of East Tennessee lies a forgotten legend. Overhill Cottage has a reputation for being haunted. Unexplained scratching. A figure moving in the dark. It's where people go missing and their spirits remain. Ryder, a twelve-year-old boy, comes to the abandoned place to prove his bravery. Will he conquer his fears or discover the stories are only a fairy tale?
Thank you to Jessica Brimer for being a part of this Q&A! It was a joy to hear from her, and be sure to listen to her exclusive interview on our podcast, BOOKMARKED, this Friday!
Allison Chudina
Editorial Assistant
Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc.
Bookmarked
Excellent interview and a reveal with encouragement!!