About Tracy Sherwood:
I had two great aspirations–to be a screenwriter and to become an author. When I was five, I worked at creating my first book, “Ragmop the Mischeivous Dog” (based on the misadventures of her sheepdog, Gulliver). Even then, I considered writing a serious business. My heroes at the time were characters who pushed the boundaries to discover what was on the other side.
But my real inspirations have been my mother, a college lecturer in English, and my father, a former Marine and internationally reknowned cartoonist. They both instilled a passion for the arts and the fighting spirit to pursue a writing career.
My debut novel, DEATH GRIP, is influenced by the plight of returning military women expected to resume their demanding roles as wives and mothers while struggling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. However, DEATH GRIP is a story for the survivors of any tragic event and their loved ones who suffer along with them.
What inspires you to write?
Curiosity.
Tell us about your writing process.
My process is to not have a process. Sometimes I will begin with a concept or a character that I build a story around. There is really no wrong method to writing except…not writing. However, I will say that a strong theme is of the most importance. Theme is the spine whereby plot and character are the connective tissue that create a cohesive, meaningful story. The thematic question begins the character’s journey that ends with the answer.
For Fiction Writers: Do you listen (or talk to) to your characters?
I let them take over the writing. It makes my job a lot easier.
What advice would you give other writers?
Dig deep. Dig deeper. Dig deeper still.
How did you decide how to publish your books?
I enjoy the teamwork of having a publisher. But some writers enjoy being more entrepreneurial. It is much easier now to self-publish and create a brand through social media. I would advise new authors to check out all their opportunities.
What do you think about the future of book publishing?
I think there is a need for traditional print books for the tactile pleasure that enhances the reading experience. However, this is the digital age and many people want the convenience of e-readers. Hopefully, there will continue to be room for both.
What genres do you write?: contemporary, thriller, horror
What formats are your books in?: eBook
Website(s)
Link To Tracy Sherwood Page On Amazon
