Fighting Prose Interview with Deanna Martinez-Bey!
Welcome to my in-depth writers series Fighting Prose. Where I talk to authors in the industry on what their process is like and what it takes for them to keep on creating, through all the odds.
Deanna Martinez-Bey
is my interview this week!
How long have you been writing?
I started writing short stories and poems when I was 8 years old!
If you've written several books, which is your favorite?
Hot Cocoa, Green Tea, and the Man Who Sweetened My Heart...because it was fashioned after my life as a domestic violence survivor.
What's your favorite genre to read? Write?
I love reading sweet romance novels and self-help books. I enjoy writing both as well.
How do you get in the mood to write?
I don't. I just do it. As Mel Robins said, "Motivation is garbage. Just get up and do!" So, that's what I do. I get up and write.
How do your characters come together?
I create a character development sheet for each character in every book. I see them in my mind before I start creating them on paper.
How do you get your ideas?
I used to use my life experiences. Now, I create characters and plots that I think are interesting.
Who do you admire the most in the writing world?
Martha Stewart for her wisdom, knowledge, and entrepreneurship.
Debbie Macomber for her writing style.
If you're not busy writing, what are you busy doing?
Running, working out, reading, baking, and drinking coffee or hot tea!
I am a mom and wife, so I do a lot of that in my spare time too. Haha
Have you always been creative? Has it always been writing?
Yes! I have always been creative. I'm a licensed cosmetologist and baker too!
Have you ever had writer’s block? If so, how did you get out of it?
I have, but very mild cases. I took a break from the project and came back with fresh eyes and was good to go.
When you sit down to write, is it easy or hard? If it's hard, what makes you keep showing up?
It depends on the day!
Typically, it's not hard. If it is, I sit and do it anyway. I choose not to give in when I want to be lazy.
For a writer starting out what advice would you give them?
- Start your project with a basic outline to keep you on track.
- It's OK to take breaks, but keep writing.
- Edit as you go!
What is your dream writing location?
Colorado...in winter.
In reference to your books, what question do you get asked the most?
How do I get published?
If you could bring one of your characters to life who would it be? Why?
Carmen Sloan from Picture This. I created her to be the opposite of myself...I like meeting strong women.
What do you think makes a good story?
Consistency and interesting and relatable characters.
As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
A hair dresser and writer...would you look at that 😉
“Thank you for letting me interview you and Good Luck with everything Deanna!”
If you happen to know an author that would be great for my Fighting Prose series be sure to send them my way!
Thanks for reading!
