How long have you been writing?
I actually started writing about 3 years ago. I had my first rough draft done. I took the story seriously about a year ago.
What inspired you to write Crossroads?
My grandmother and a dream I had in high school inspired me to write. When I started writing, it helped me heal the loss of my grandmother. The character Gamma is inspired by my grandmother. Chapter one and two are my real dreams, except there was no Michael…too bad…lol!!! I have always wondered what it would be like if I stayed at that place I call Crossroads. Since I’ll never know, I created a world.
When you first started writing Crossroads, did you plan for it to be a series?
I hoped there would be. I decided it was up to the readers. If I got positive feedbacks, then I knew there would be a sequel. I will make it at least a trilogy.
What can you tell us about the sequel?
More angels on Earth. More of Austin…hehe!!! And the sequel will be told in different points of view. And of course, lots of action and romance.
Which of your characters do you relate to most and why?
Though I don’t like to admit it, Claudia is a lot like me and shares many experiences I did in high school…too bad there was no Michael…lol!!! Her first death, her friend who had the same name, the church she attended, her first car, her first job, camping, her relationship with Gamma, it all came from my experiences.
What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
Several things. First, I didn’t know how much I would enjoy writing. I enjoy making jewelries, oil painting, teaching dance routine to children at my school, but never did I imagine how much I love creating stories. Second, I never knew I would meet so many incredible friends all over the world. It’s been an amazing experience!!!
If your real life as a teenager was a Young Adult book, what would you, the main character, be like?
I love this question!!! Okay…getting excited. I definitely need to be someone down to Earth, but I would like to have a little attitude too…this would be fun. Some who is independent, caring, devoted to her friends and family. And someone with super powers…lol!!!
What do you like to do when you're not writing?
Besides spending time with my family. I enjoy shopping…hehe!!! I enjoy reading, listening to music and watching movies. Also when I get a chance, I like to make jewelries and oil paint. I once painted a picture of the cover of New Moon and sold it for $100 at a Twilight convention. I wished I had taken a picture.
What is the best piece of writing advice you ever received?
Have an outline of the story you want to tell. I think it’s an excellent advice, but I don’t follow it…lol!!!
I took on a journey not knowing how rewarding it would be for me. I’ve meet so many wonderful people from all over the world through facebook, twitter, goodreads and blog sites. I’ve made everlasting friendship where friendship knows no boundaries. And I have to thank my grandmother who continues to watch over me from Heaven.
Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions!
Thank you so much for having me!!!
Check out my review on Crossroads by Mary Ting and also the sequel, Between!
Crossroads is available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and World Castle Publishing.
To learn more about this book and the author, visit the Mary Ting's website, Twitter, and Facebook page.
You can also view this interview on Examiner
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