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Interview – Melissa Burovac
When did you start writing novels, what moved you to start writing?
I began writing short stories long before I ever imagined I’d write a book. My first book “Wandering” was written from daily blog posts while on a nine-month round the world adventure. When I returned home, many people remarked on how funny my blog was, especially when I was lost, and how they loved reading about a woman braving the world solo. Several people mentioned that I should write a book, and after thinking about it I remembered long-forgotten dreams of being a writer, and got to work.
In what genres do you write? Do you plan writing in other genres?
I’ve written a non-fiction travel/adventure memoir (“Wandering”), two books of a romantic comedy series (“Sylvie Writes a Romance” and “Sylvie Falls in Love” from the ongoing “Sylvie’s Romance” series), and an action/adventure fiction (“Surfer, Sailor, Smuggler”). I write whatever pops into my head, regardless of genre, and have been wanting to write a locked-room mystery
Tell us about your novels. Why should everyone buy them?
Regardless of which book appeals to you — travel, romantic comedy, or action and adventure — my books are entertaining. Whatever I start out writing has a strong element of humor included, and I know I can make you laugh.
What is your all time favorite novel/book? What makes it special?
I’m not sure I have an all-time favorite! I love epic books with captivating stories like Gone with the Wind and Lonesome Dove, or a series like Lord of the Rings and The Belgariad.
Tell us a bit about your writing process.
I have to think about an idea for a while before I can commit it to paper, even as a first draft. When I am writing, the first thing I do is take my dog to run and swim so she sleeps while I work. I like to write outside and use a table in my carport (my first book was written in the back of my pickup truck on an empty stretch of beach); too much quiet bothers me as much as too much noise! I am a morning writer; for some unknown reason I can’t begin anything in the evening.
Tell us about your hobbies and passions other than writing.
I am an ocean photographer and spend quite a bit of time swimming and scuba diving while looking for wildlife. My dog Lucy accompanies me when I take my camera on my SUP; she loves to watch dolphins (or “water puppies,” as I’ve told her they are called).
We have many followers who would like to start writing a book or are already writing their first novel, any advice for these brave people?
The most important thing you can do is keep writing until you finish! Countless people have told me they have an unfinished novel. Writing is hard, especially the first book, and I’d like to say it gets easier but it doesn’t — you just know you can do it after you’ve finished the first one. After finishing a few drafts, the most important thing is finding a good editor; no writer can find her own mistakes.
How often do you write, daily, every other day or?
I write daily when I am working on a book or short story. I give myself a little break upon completion, but the more you write, the better you write!
Do you keep a notebook with ideas for your novels? If so do you carry the notebook with you so you won’t forget any ideas?
I keep a notebook when I am working on a story and jot down the characters and timeline as I write so I don’t confuse them in later chapters. My books aren’t planned, so I don’t start with a summary. When I think of an idea but am not at my computer I usually email myself so I don’t forget.
How important is it to have your facts right and are there any instances when you bend history to fit your story?
I have never written “alternative history” books, although the idea appeals to me. I like to keep everything as factual as possible, which means at times I spend an entire day researching things like the history of plastic baggies and when did average people begin to wear wristwatches.
What are you reading at the moment?
I adore reading a series with a repeated cast of characters. At the moment I am making my way through the Inspector Gamache books by Louise Penny.
How is it to be an author in your country? Do you have a good support from the local public?
I think it is hard for Indie Authors, no matter where they live. For the past 15 years I have lived on islands with only one small bookstore; while my friends support my writing, life in general is geared toward outdoor activity and reading is not a big priority! But I like being warm, so I stay.
A final message for our circleofbooks.com readers.
Thank you to readers everywhere! Writing is challenging, and finding an audience and getting feedback is the only way to improve. I hope that you enjoy my books, and I am working hard to produce more for your entertainment.
Thank you Melissa. We at circleofbooks.com wish you much success!
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