It was the mystique of Arizona’s history and landscape that called to Deena and catapulted her career as an author. When she’s not writing novels and poetry in the wee, small hours of the morning or in the deep, dark of night, Deena teaches language arts to middle school students. She currently lives in Gilbert with her husband and two children, but New Jersey will always tug at her heartstrings.
Now - on to the interview:
? When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
I’ve always loved writing, but the first time I realized I wanted to do this as a career was a few years ago. I’d submitted a poem to a greeting card company. While waiting to hear, a story came to me, and when I sat in front of the computer to write it, I just knew this was what I had to do the rest of my life.
? How many jobs did you have before you became a writer?
I’ve had two jobs. One put me through graduate school to become a teacher. I was a fishmonger! Yup. I worked at a fish market. It was so much hard work and fun. I always reflect fondly on that time. Then I became an educator and have been so for over 20 years, teaching reading and writing.
? How long does it take you to write a book?
It really depends on what’s pulling me at the time. I wrote Trinity and Relic in 6 months a piece. But my third novel, Elixxir is taking much longer because of the time I spend promoting the first two novels. I’ve also written a couple of shorts, so that took time away.
? What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?
I must have peanut M&M’s next to me while I write. I don’t know what it is, but those are essential to my writing well-being. J
? Do you have a routine that you use to get into the right frame of mind to write?
Yes, I get my chocolate and drink ready. I go hide in my office. It must be quiet. I can’t write fiction with noise or music around me. Then, I close my eyes and let the movie in my mind begin. What I see I write down.
? Where do you get your ideas or inspiration for your characters?
Sometimes my characters’ traits are based on real life people I know. Other times, their appearance and personality speak for themselves and I have no choice but to listen.
? How do you decide what you want to write about?
Stories just come to me, and I prioritize which to write first. I consider my editing schedule and the timeline from writing to hearing back on a submission.
? What books have most influenced your life?
The Tao of Piglet, The Te of Poo, The Great Good Thing, Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
? What is the first book you remember reading by yourself?
Ohh, that would have been a LONG time ago. I’m thinking Frog and Toad? Or Dick and Jane?
? What are you reading right now?
I’m just about to start Wet Dream by Jm Madden. I just finished Tempting the Cowboy by Clarissa Yip. I love supporting my fellow Decadent Publishing authors.
? What do you like to do when you are not writing?
I love photography, scrapbooking, listening to music, and watching musicals.
? What is your favorite comfort food?
Chicken soup and matzo balls, OR grilled cheese and tomato soup, OR soft pretzels with mustard.
? What do you think makes a good story?
Strong characters with flaws, intriguing plotline with twists, and lots of romance!
? Who would you consider your favorite author and why?
Sherrilyn Kenyon is a favorite author because I consider her the master of world-building.
? What book, if any, do you read over and over again?
I read Nora Roberts’ Born in Ice. I just find a connection to her female lead and adore the ending.
Fun random questions:
- dogs or cats? Dogs
- Coffee or tea? Coffee
- Dark or milk chocolate? Milk chocolate
- Rocks or flowers? Rocks
- Night or day? Night
- Favorite color? Orange
- Crayons or markers? Crayons
- Pens or pencils? Pens
