I was blessed to initially cross paths with today's guest Jennifer Gracen on Twitter a few years ago, when someone mentioned in a tweet that if you needed a proofreader, she was your gal to go to.
I followed her immediately, adored her personality, interacted with her a bit, and knew pretty much right away that I wanted to ask her if she would proofread GODSPEED for me before I indie published it.
She graciously agreed to do so, we became fast friends, and the rest is history. She is a very dear friend and I am so thankful to have her in my world!
Her own writing career has taken off at rocket speed this year, and her star is bright and rising!
So get to know a bit about the author behind the amazingly popular SEASONS OF LOVE book series, the first two books of which are out NOW! (Find out more by clicking through to her website at the end of this interview.)
Welcome, Jennifer!
In a few paragraphs, please describe who you are and what you do.
JG: Who I am and what I do are intrinsically linked. I'm a mom of 2 young boys, I'm a romance writer, I'm a copy editor/proofreader, I'm a friend to many, and I'm a social media addict.
Q1: What is the biggest obstacle you have overcome in pursuing your dreams?
JG: Not listening to the naysayers. Following my passion despite their negativity and lack of support. Not giving up, even when things seemed bleak.
Q2: Would you choose a seashore or mountain retreat? Why?
JG: Mountain retreat, no question. I like the ocean, but I LOVE greenery. I need trees -- foliage, flora, all of that. Being secluded in a cabin in the mountains sounds like heaven on earth to me.
Q3: If you had a Fairy Godmother, what would you wish for?
JG: Oh wow. Soooo many things. Um... Of paramount importance: happiness and good health for my family, my friends, and myself. Then, the dreamy things for
myself: a writing career successful enough to have it be my only source of income, to have the opportunity to travel, to possibly find true love one day, and to be able to help others pursue their dreams as well.
Q4: What advice do you have for anyone dealing with difficult life situations?
JG: To do whatever it takes to get through. Be kind to yourself when things are difficult. Cry and curl up in a ball if need be, but not forever. Just until the initial hurt of the hit passes. Then, lean on those who love you and let them help you. Keep moving forward. Never give up. And practice gratitude; there's always something to be thankful for, even on the darkest days.
Q5: *bonus question for everyone* Do you collect anything? If so, why?
JG: I don't, actually. And this question made me ponder that. I guess because material things, though lovely, aren't as important to me as people. If I collect anything, I suppose it'd be people. Friends. They make my world go 'round.
~*~
...and how lucky those of us are who can count ourselves among your 'collection'! Thank you so much for visiting with us today!
You can learn more about Jennifer and her books by visiting her website at: www.jennifergracen.com
See you all next time!
~bru
