Here we are in February already. Today I'd like to welcome author, Amanda Cabot. How did you develop a 'love of story'?
I can’t remember a time when I didn’t love reading. My parents were avid readers, and I suspect I either inherited that or learned it from them. They’d read me stories at nap and bedtime, and I’d see them reading grown-up books at other times of the day. Since I wanted to be like the grown-ups, it’s hardly a surprise that I tried to reach myself to read. And, once I learned to read, books became my almost constant companions.
So many authors I interview have developed the love of story through reading. When do you fit writing into your day?
I’m a very disciplined writer. Some (including my husband) might call me compulsive, so you won’t be surprised to learn that I have a fairly rigid writing schedule. It begins after breakfast and ends at noon. During that time I do as much “real” writing as I can, making sure that I complete two chapters each week. If I don’t get those chapters finished by noon on Friday, you’ll find me writing during the afternoon and on Saturday, but normally I use those times for social media and promotional activities.
That's something I need to work on more as a writer - consistent discipline. :) What is your favorite Bible verse and why?
Joshua 1:9 – “Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; do not be afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (KJV) There are times when I’m afraid and even more when I’m dismayed, so this verse gives me the comfort I need to endure those times. What a wonderful promise our Lord has given us in this verse!
Great reminder. Can you tell us a little bit about your new book?
A woman without a future. A man running from the past.
One enchanting place where broken dreams are mended.
If there’s one thing Gillian Hodge never wants to see again, it’s a man on a motorcycle. Her last encounter with one left her right hand crushed, ending her promising career as a concert pianist. Unsure about the next phase in her life, she heads to Rainbow’s End Resort for some R&R when a sudden thunderstorm causes a motorcycle to crash right in front of her.
When TJ Benjamin’s wife died, he lost more than his best friend; he lost his faith. He has spent the past year wandering the country on his motorcycle, trying not to think about the future. When he finds himself stranded with a busted bike and a reluctant rescuer, he has to wonder about God’s sense of humor.
As these broken people collide, they find that a bright future is still ahead—it just might not be the one they imagined for themselves.
LOL. I can imagine a number of sparks flying in this tale. :) Is there something about you most people wouldn’t know?
I had a brief stint as an acquisitions editor for a technical publication. What an eye-opening experience that was! It gave me great empathy for the problems editors encounter – everything from incomprehensible prose to writers who are so convinced that their work is perfect that they refuse to make revisions. I’d like to think I’m a better writer as a result of that.
I imagine it gave you a great look at the 'other side' of writing. What does your writing space look like?
When I had a day job, I used to write everywhere from a corner of the guest room in our home to airport lounges, airplanes and hotels. Now that I’ve retired from that job, I have a dedicated office, complete with a desk for writing by hand (yes, I still scribble portions of my writing, and, believe me, “scribble” is no exaggeration) as well as a separate computer workstation. It’s wonderful being able to close the door and immerse myself in my characters’ lives.
I love immersing myself in my characters' lives too. :) Where can readers connect with you?
One of my greatest pleasures is hearing from readers, and so I encourage them to visit my web site, where they’ll find email links, or to connect with me via Facebook, Twitter or my blog. Here are the links:
Thank you for stopping by today, Amanda. It's been a pleasure getting to know you. Don't forget to leave a comment for your chance to win February's giveaway. It's a surprise this month :)
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