Tricia Drammeh is an author who writes in many genres: YA, fantasy, paranormal, romance, and women’s fiction. I asked her to share her thoughts on craft and publishing.
Do you decide on genre before you start writing? Does your audience shift or is there crossover?
I usually have some idea of genre, though there have been times I’ve been surprised by the outcome. For example, with Better than Perfect, I had originally intended to write a romance. It turned out to be Women’s Fiction, as the story focused more on the main character’s non-romantic relationships and her evolution as a person.
I would say my audience is broken down into two types of readers, though there is some crossover. There are the readers who fell in love with Better than Perfect and who wish I’d write more Women’s Fiction. Then there are my readers who love young adult fiction with a bit of fantasy. My writing has been all over the place in terms of genre, so I can’t really say I have a large, hardcore fan base who will read everything I write, though there are a few readers who fall into that category.
What do you do when you get stuck in the writing process?
In cases where I have a deadline, I push through and force myself to write through the hard stuff. Without a deadline, I have a tendency to abandon projects, sometimes for months.
How many books have you written? How long does it typically take?
I have written nine full-length novels and one non-fiction book. When I began writing, I could complete a novel in about two months. Now, it takes much longer. I’m not a fast writer and I like to edit as I go.
What is your biggest challenge of self-publishing? What’s the best part?
Like many authors I’ve spoken with, my biggest challenge has been promotion and marketing. I feel very uncomfortable with self-promotion. The best part about self-publishing is having control of the publication process. I choose the book cover, the editor, and the publication date. It’s very empowering.
What are you working on next?
I just finished writing a short story for an anthology being published in June. My next project will be revisions on The Coven, a paranormal story for teens.
If you’d like more information about Tricia, check out her website.
Today's Author 
I like your attitude about deadlines. Isn’t that true–that they are motivational!
I’m afraid that without a deadline, I never get anything done!
Reblogged this on Tricia Drammeh and commented:
I’m so excited to be featured in an interview on Today’s Author. It’s a phenomenal site for writers, so if you’re looking for writing prompts or inspiration, it’s a great place to hang out.
Reblogged this on Maegan Provan, Author and commented:
Check out the latest interview with one of my favorite authors. I am so beyond honored to call this woman ‘friend’ and even more so ‘mentor.’ I will forever fan girl over Tricia, and you should, too!
Thank you, Maegan. I’m honored to call you a friend as well.
I totally agree about the least attractive aspect of self-publishing. It takes all the pleasure out of writing when you have to spend half your writing time doing a sales rep job.
Some people seem to have a knack for self-promotion. I am not one of those people. I always feel awkward talking about my books, even to people I know. I know some people who love the marketing aspect, though, and I envy them.
It terrifies me. And it’s expensive of cash and time.
I understand and agree about the self-promotion aspect. That’s why it is so important to be involved in writer groups, book blogs, the writing (and reader) community in general. It takes a village!!
I agree. It’s so much easier when we help each other. I’d much rather talk about my favorite authors and promote their work than talk about myself. I’ve met the best people within the writing community and I never would have made it this far without them.
Excellent and insightful interview, Tricia. 🙂 Sharing…
Thank you so much, Bette!