Welcome to one of the October 24th stops on the blog tour for It Won’t Happen to Me by T.A. Beasley, organized by Silver Dagger Book Tours. This stop is a guest post by the author, so we’ll get to that first and then follow it up with the media kit info (and pretty pictures.) Be sure to follow the rest of the tour for spotlights with excerpts, reviews, different guest posts, and a giveaway! (More on that at the end of this post.)
Take it away, T.A. Beasley!
What made you want to become an author and do you feel it was the right decision?
I have a very active imagination and love storytelling so what better way to share these two things than to become a writer. I feel it is the right decision for me because it is my dream to be a published author and I don’t want the “what if” syndrome so I’m going for it.
I don’t like to take the easy way out among other reasons, which is why I choose to be an indie author. I like to make my own decisions and deadline and I don’t mind the challenge of doing it myself but its not for everyone.
What advice would you give new authors?
To start building a platform as soon as possible so you are known a little before your book comes out, meaning start interacting with others in the industry. You can do this by reviewing other author’s books, interviewing them, offering to do a guest post on their blogs and offering the same on your blog.
To have thick skin because everyone is not going to like or support your work. This is very important. You can’t let negativity and naysayers mess with your spirit and mental. Don’t let them still your joy.
To educate yourself before entering the industry and understand social media etiquette while promoting yourself.
To surround yourself with individuals who love writing, books and this industry as much as you do.
Last, to stay humble and always support your fellow author. There is enough space for us all, but you don’t want to burn bridges because you never know when you may need someone’s help.
What are you currently reading?
I’m reading two collections of short stories called, Horror Stories by Joanna Blythe and Supernatural Stories by Joshua Perry for the month of October. I like to read a lot of thrillers and horror books in this month.
What is your writing process? For instance, do you do an outline first? Do you do the chapters first?
When I start a book I first create my character profiles. I then plot my novel to create my outline. I will then collect my research and interviews to make everything as authentic as I can. I then start the first chapter and go from there.
If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to protect your credit source, wait to have children after you’ve pursued your career, bought a house and have gotten married. To go after the career, you feel is best for you not what everyone else wants you to do. This way you won’t have any regrets when you turn 40.
What’s the most difficult thing about writing characters from the opposite sex?
I have a difficult time with writing the opposite sex’s dialogue. I can’t talk like a man, so I ask my husband what he would say in certain situations.
Do your characters seem to hijack the story or do you feel like you have the reigns of the story?
When I am writing some scenes, the characters will take over especially if they feel I’m not representing them or their voice correctly. I do feel like I am able to take the reign back after a while.
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
If I stay focused, I can write a first draft in three months no later than six months.
Do you believe in writer’s block?
Yes, but I believe if writers have a plan in place when writer’s block happens, it will be easier to get out of it. Believe me it is easy to get stuck on a scene, but you must walk away from it and take a break. You may even have to do something to relax yourself and your mind and then go back to it a couple of days later to get your creative juices flowing again.
Is there a writer whose brain you would love to pick for advice? Who would that be and why?
I would like to pick Stephen King’s brain because he is the king of horror fiction. I would ask how he comes up with the settings in his books. His settings seem to play a big role in his books besides his characters.
I would also like to pick Tiffany D. Jackson’s brain to ask her how she creates characters with unique characteristics and captivating backstories.
Jenna’s Comments
Thank you so much for sending this guest post! Those are all great answers. I would also love to pick Tiffany D. Jackson’s brain. Grown was so powerful!
Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means there is no additional cost to you if you shop using my links, but I will earn a small percentage in commission. A program-specific disclaimer is at the bottom of this post.
It Won’t Happen to Me
It Happened To Me Duology Book Two
by T.A. Beasley
Published 23 October 2020
by LaBrice Books
Genre: YA Contemporary Mystery
Page Count: 147
Add it to your Goodreads TBR!
In this anticipated sequel to, It Happened To Me, experience the guilt Tiffany feels after the loss of her best friend.
Tiffany Johnson feels the guilt of missing the signs her friend was in trouble. To her, the detectives are taking too long to find answers.
When she stumbles across what she believes is evidence, she will have to decide to turn it over to the authorities or pursue her own investigation.
She is determined to find answers. Will it be worth it?
Amazon US | Amazon CA | Amazon UK | B&N | Kobo | LaBriceBooks
It Happened to Me
It Happened To Me Duology Book One
by T.A. Beasley
Published 18 October 2018
by LaBrice Books
Genre: YA Contemporary Mystery
Page Count: 280
Add it to your Goodreads TBR!
“T. A. Beasley came fresh out the gate with an amazing debut novel that I truly enjoyed. It Happened To Me has a solid, fresh, believable storyline, and great character development just to name a few good qualities.” –Nick Haskins, Author of Betrayed
“This was a very emotional read for me, but it dealt with realistic issues. It should be in every high school counselor’s office. Kudos to the author’s first book. It was an awesome journey. I can’t wait for part two.” –Tera Kirksey, Amazon Reader
“T. A. Beasley tells a story with deep themes. Small choices can lead down dangerous paths for yourself and those around you. This book is a cautionary tale for teens and even adults. I look forward to reading the sequel.” –Savannah J. Goins, Author of The Gwythienian
When seventeen-year-old Delilah Murphy loses the one person she could count on, she struggles with the loss as the one she blames keeps making her life even harder. Delilah leans on her best friend, Tiffany, for comfort, but she has troubles of her own, and only grows distant from Delilah when they need each other’s support most.
Full of pain and distrust, Delilah must face yet another enemy as she adjusts to having no support system. With her behavior and emotions out of control, will Delilah come to her senses or will her childish antics lead her down a path she may not be ready to travel?
Amazon US | Amazon CA | Amazon UK | B&N | Kobo | LaBriceBooks
T. A. Beasley is an author, blogger and publishing consultant, who has been in love with mysteries and thrillers since her youth watching her favorite Scooby Doo and Murder She Wrote shows, which she still enjoys to this day. She is the author of It Happened To Me and reside in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Amazon | Goodreads
One lucky follower of the tour will walk away with a rechargeable neck reading light and a signed copy of book one, It Happened to Me. Don’t forget to check out other stops on the tour for more chances to enter! Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway.
a Rafflecopter giveawayDisclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Thank you so much for hosting me and featuring It Won’t Happen to Me. I appreciate it!
You’re welcome! 😊