About Michelle M. Pillow:
Michelle M. Pillow is a prolific NY Times & USA TODAY bestselling author with over a million books sold. Though she writes in many genres, she is best known for romance and mystery. Her rich world building creates portals for the imagination. She is a winner of the RT Reviewers' Choice Award. Fan favorites include the Qurilixen World (a multi-series collection) and Warlocks MacGregor series. She loves to interact with readers. Visit her at MichellePillow.com.
What inspires you to write?
Writing has always been a passion of mine. The world around me is a constant source of inspiration. Personal experiences, travels, and even the simplest observations can spark an idea. I’ve always been fascinated by the supernatural and the extraordinary, and exploring these themes through my characters and stories keeps me endlessly motivated. Creating intricate, magical worlds and delving into the complexities of human emotions is a driving force behind my writing. It's the possibility of transporting readers to these fantastical realms that truly inspires me.
What authors do you read when you aren’t writing?
Some of my favorite authors include J.R.R. Tolkien, Anne Rice, Jane Austen, and John Steinbeck. Tolkien’s ability to create immersive worlds, Rice’s intricate character development, Austen’s wit and social commentary, and Steinbeck’s exploration of human nature have all profoundly influenced my writing style. These authors have shown me the power of storytelling and the impact a well-crafted narrative can have on readers.
Tell us about your writing process.
My writing process is a blend of structure and spontaneity. I’m an outliner, but I like to leave room for creativity. I use a combination of loose outlines, notebooks, and Post-it notes to keep track of my ideas and plot points. My husband and I often have brainstorming sessions where we talk through the storyline, helping to refine it. I also create character sketches during the writing process to develop their backgrounds and personalities deeply. This helps me ensure that each character is well-rounded and authentic. Writing anywhere and everywhere, except my actual office, keeps the process dynamic and engaging.
For Fiction Writers: Do you listen (or talk to) to your characters?
Absolutely! My characters often feel like real people to me, and I find myself listening to them and their stories. They can be quite insistent, taking on lives of their own and guiding the narrative in unexpected directions. This dynamic interaction with my characters allows me to explore their motivations and emotions more deeply, leading to more authentic and compelling stories.
What advice would you give other writers?
The most important advice I can give to other writers is to believe in yourself and your unique voice. Write consistently, and don’t be afraid to revise and improve your work. The journey of writing and publishing can be challenging, but persistence and passion are essential. Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in your vision. Study the craft of writing and read extensively to broaden your perspective. And most importantly, keep writing—every story you tell will make you a better writer.
How did you decide how to publish your books?
I’ve explored both traditional publishing and self-publishing, each with its own set of advantages. I started with traditional publishing, which provided valuable experience and industry insights. Later, I embraced self-publishing for the creative control and flexibility it offered. My advice to new authors is to research both options thoroughly. Traditional publishing can offer credibility (in some eyes) and a support network, while self-publishing allows for more control over the creative process. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal goals and preferences.
What do you think about the future of book publishing?
The future of book publishing is exciting and dynamic. The rise of digital platforms and self-publishing has democratized the industry, allowing more voices to be heard. Readers now have more choices than ever, and authors have new ways to reach their audience. While traditional publishing will continue to play a significant role, the flexibility and accessibility of self-publishing will likely drive more innovation and creativity. I believe we’ll see a continued blending of the two models, offering the best of both worlds to authors and readers alike.
What genres do you write?: Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Mystery, Romance
What formats are your books in?: Both eBook and Print, Audiobook
Website(s)
Michelle M. Pillow Home Page Link
Link To Michelle M. Pillow Page On Amazon
Link to Author Page on Barnes & Noble
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All information in this post is presented “as is” supplied by the author. We don’t edit to allow you the reader to hear the author in their own voice.
