A Quick Chat with TA Beasley

Tell us about your journey to becoming an author.

I have a very active imagination and love storytelling so what better way to share these two things than to become a writer. I feel it is the right decision for me because it is my dream to be a published author and I don’t want the “what if” syndrome so I’m going for it.

I don’t like to take the easy way out among other reasons, which is why I choose to be an indie author. I like to make my own decisions and deadline and I don’t mind the challenge of doing it myself but its not for everyone.

What advice would you give new authors?

To start building a platform as soon as possible so you are known a little before your book comes out, meaning start interacting with others in the industry. You can do this by reviewing other author’s books, interviewing them, offering to do a guest post on their blogs and offering the same on your blog.

To have thick skin because everyone is not going to like or support your work. This is very important. You can’t let negativity and naysayers mess with your spirit and mental. Don’t let them still your joy.

To educate yourself before entering the industry and understand social media etiquette while promoting yourself.

To surround yourself with individuals who love writing, books and this industry as much as you do.

Last, to stay humble and always support your fellow author. There is enough space for us all, but you don’t want to burn bridges because you never know when you may need someone’s help.

What are you currently reading?

I’m reading two collections of short stories called, Horror Stories by Joanna Blythe and Supernatural Stories by Joshua Perry for the month of October. I like to read a lot of thrillers and horror books in this month.

If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

I would tell my younger self to protect your credit source, wait to have children after you’ve pursued your career, bought a house and have gotten married. To go after the career, you feel is best for you not what everyone else wants you to do. This way you won’t have any regrets when you turn 40.

What’s the most difficult thing about writing characters of the opposite sex?

I have a difficult time with writing the opposite sex’s dialogue. I can’t talk like a man, so I ask my husband what he would say in certain situations.

Do your characters seem to hijack the story or do you feel like you have the reigns of the story?

When I am writing some scenes, the characters will take over especially if they feel I’m not representing them or their voice correctly. I do feel like I am able to take the reign back after a while.

How long on average does it take you to write a book?

If I stay focused, I can write a [the] first draft in three months no later than six months.

Is there a writer which brain you would love to pick for advice? Who would that be and why?

I would like to pick Stephen King’s brain because he is the king of horror fiction. I would ask how he comes up with the settings in his books. His settings seem to play a big role in his books besides his characters.

I would also like to pick Tiffany D. Jackson’s brain to ask her how she creates characters with unique characteristics and captivating backstories.

About TA Beasley

TA. Beasley is an author, blogger and publishing consultant, who has been in love with mysteries and thrillers since her youth watching her favorite Scooby Doo and Murder She Wrote shows, which she still enjoys to this day. She is the author of It Happened To Me and reside in Indianapolis, Indiana.