Stephanie Jaye Evans interview with David Alan Binder

Bio from her website:  Stephanie Jaye Evans is a fifth generation Texan. She got her BA from Abilene Christian University and an MLS from Rice University. Her first book in the Sugar Land Mystery Series, Faithful Unto Death, was awarded the William F. Deeck—Malice Domestic Grant for Unpublished Writers and was a Library Journal Debut of the Month. The second in the series, Safe From Harm, released on March 5, 2013.

Website:      http://www.stephaniejayeevans.com/

Blog: https://stephaniejayeevans.wordpress.com/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5196895.Stephanie_Jaye_Evans

Amazon:     https://www.amazon.com/Stephanie-Jaye-Evans/e/B0070GN680/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1481477662&sr=8-1

 

1.             Where are you currently living?

In 2013 I moved out of the suburbs and into the historic Houston Heights, TX.  The Heights is famous as the home of one of America’s more notorious serial killer duos Dean Corll and Elmer Wayne Henley.

 

2.             What is the most important thing that you have learned in your writing experience, so far?

It’s very hard work. If writing were an easy job, everyone would do it.

   

4.             What would you say is your most interesting writing, publishing, editing or illustrating quirk?

Hm. I’m not that quirky it’s a disadvantage. I had a trauma-free childhood, my parents are good and loving people it’s a real handicap when you write about killing people.

   

5.             Tell us your insights on self-publish or use a publisher?

My only experience is as a Berkley Prime Crime writer, so I have nothing to say about the self-publishing arena. It’s hard to get attention even as a writer for a big publisher, so I can’t imagine how hard it would be as a self-published one.

   

6.             Any insights eBooks vs. print books and alternative vs. conventional publishing?

Not a one.

   

7.             Do you have any secret tips for writers on getting a book published?                  

A huge number of people start writing books, only a small percentage finish writing those books. There’s no point in thinking about being published until you have a completed book.

   

8.             How did you or would you suggest acquire an agent?   Any tips for new writers on getting one?

Oh, I have a Cinderella story. Thanks to G.M. Malliet, who mentioned the grant in her acknowledgements, I submitted to and won the William F. Deeck--Malice Domestic Grants Program for Unpublished Writers (whew!). That meant I got to make a two-minute speech at the annual Agatha Awards ceremony. I worked on that speech like it was the opportunity of a “lifetime “and it was. That forty-two second speech earned me the attention of  Janet Reid of NewLeaf Literary and Media. She is a dream agent.

Here’s my advice, enter that contest, make a good speech.

   

9.             Do you have any suggestions or helps for new writers (please be specific and informational as possible)?

You should absolutely check out Janet Reid’s award winning blogs, and, when you're ready to start querying, her Query Shark. There is so much to be learned from those pages. Also, you should write your heart right out of your chest. When you push back from your computer, you should feel drained, as though you have left part of yourself in that narrative.

 

10.          What was one of the most surprising things you learned your creative process with your books, editing, publishing or illustrating?

How incredibly much discipline it takes. You may have domestic or financial or love issues in your life, but if you can’t push them aside, your work will suffer. I learned that I don’t always heed that.

 

11.                    How many books have you written?

I’ve had the first two in my Sugar Land Mystery series published. I’m working on the third and on a stand-alone.

   

12.                                Do you have any tricks or tips to help others become a better writer (please be as specific and information as you possibly can)?

   

I don’t. It’s as personal as being a good lover.

   

13.                                                                      Do you have any suggestions for providing twists in a good story?

Read the news. Everyday life continues to surprise me. And alarm me.

        14.               ‘What makes your or any book stand out from the crowd?

I’m a really good writer and I do write my heart onto the page.

   

15.                              What are some ways in which you promote your work?

I make lots of personal appearances.

   

16.                           What saying or mantra do you live by?

If you are a writer, really a writer, then writing is a responsibility.

   

17.                            Anything else you would like to say?

The community of writers is one of the most generous communities I’ve had the privilege of being a part of. Reach out. Meet other writers.