Best of Family & Relationships
Best of Family & Relationships
"So Many Books, So Little Time!"
Exclusive Interview with
Tricia Draper
When did you start writing?
I always loved writing. My Mother was a school Librarian, so I was surrounded by books all my life. In school, I could not wait to write English papers. I always enjoyed making the ideas in my head become reality on paper. I began writing professionally as soon as I could. I still joyfully continue on my writing journey.
What makes writing your passion?
It gives me a sense of excitement and purpose. Whether I am writing to help someone in their life journey, or simply having fun with a story, I feel a longing to do it in my spirit and soul. It burns within me, and I am fulfilled when I finish something I write.
How long have you been writing?
Not including school, I have been writing since 1997. I have done mostly short stories until the last few years of turning to Christian guidance. I still enjoy writing the stories that enter my mind.
What was the feeling when you published your first book?
I was elated! It was a sense of fulfillment. I knew that not only would I enjoy these stories, but everyone else could as well. It was so refreshing to hold that first book in my hands!
What’s the story behind your choice of characters?
I have written mainly Christian fiction stories. They vary depending on the instance, but they mainly have the same sense of having or finding faith in God. I have published a children's book, also. That was so much fun. I love allowing people to see the joy in all my characters.
What annoys you the most in pursuing a writing career?
I think the marketing is the hardest. It is not easy having a book you know can help someone else, but there's no easy way to get it to them. I know we all have this problem. I wish there were an easier way.
How do you get over the “writer’s block”?
I pray and go to God. He mainly tells me what to write. He helps me in every situation.
We all know the writer’s path is never easy, what makes you keep going? What advice would you give to new authors?
Helping people and bringing them joy is what fuels me on. Knowing I can give them something they need or enjoy moves me forward. I would encourage new writers to follow their heart. If they have the passion is takes to stay in this business, they will find their way. Giving up is easy, but there is no reward in the end.
If you could go back in time and talk to your younger self, what would you say?
I would tell myself to keep seeking God on His plans for my life. I would encourage all the love and joy I can obtain from Him.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with the bad ones?
What is the feeling when you get a good review?
I have had several good reviews. It makes me feel as if I have done the right thing by putting the hard work into seeing the book come to reality. All the blood, sweat, and tears become joyful.
Have you ever incorporated something that happened to you in real life into your novels?
Yes. I often use real life scenarios to help get my point across.
Which of your characters you can compare yourself with? Did you base that character on you?
What do you think, the book cover is as important as the story?
Yes. It is what the reader will see first. It is a first impression. It either makes the reader want to buy or walk away.
Do you connect with your readers? Do you mind having a chat with them or you prefer to express yourself through your writing?
I love interacting with my readers. The feedback they give helps me know I am on the right track.
How do you feel when people appreciate your work or recognize you in public?
I feel as if I have done my job. I feel complete. It makes all the hard work worth while.
Who is your favorite author? Why?
What’s the dream? Whom would you like to be as big as?
My dream is to have our ministry, The Messengers Ministry, large enough to help people around the world. I would love to touch lives of people everywhere.