ASK D. LARAY
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What inspired you to start writing and become an author?
I've always enjoyed writing! From essays in school to journaling in personal notebooks. From "directing" and "creating" plays with my friends (embarrassing!), to writing poems and short stories as a teen.
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I picked up a habit of reading throughout the last few years, and I had an epiphany that I wanted to be on the other side of books. I wanted to not just read them, but write them. So, I did!
How do you come up with plot and storyline ideas?
My mind is constantly moving. I take real-life situations I've experienced or heard about and add a twist or two.
Do you get writers block?
YES! I started writing my first book in January of 2023. I wrote four chapters and wasn't happy with it. I started over and wrote ten chapters, but I wasn't happy with that either. I threw that whole storyline away.
It took me several months to think of a different plot that felt good enough for me to write. I finally started plotting my debut, I Said I Was Gone, in July of 2022. By September, it was ready to go through the self-publishing process.
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To avoid writer's block, I decided to write a novella/very short novel. I plotted my book and left enough gaps in the storyline to be creative.
Do you plan on writing more books?
Yes! Without a doubt. I already have a second book in the works. It should be ready sometime in 2024.
Why did you self-publish your debut?
Because I was excited and eager! Traditional publishing can take several months, and authors are often rejected numerous times before an agency finally chooses them. Depending on the agency, there are also limitations to your book cover, genre, plots, storylines, and book titles. I wanted complete control over the creativity and logistics of my book.
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If I am ever presented with an opportunity with an agency in the future, I would certainly entertain the idea.