When did you realize that you wanted to become
a writer?
I have been writing since my teenage years. Back
then I thought that it was just a passing phase, interest or hobby. I did not
even consider becoming an author. I started writing in my teenage years and
since then it always came back to me. It took me almost 20 years to realize
that it’s my calling. I realized it about 2 years ago.
Is being an Author all you dreamed of, or did
it just happen? The best and worst thing about it?
Not
really. I dreamed of many things but being an author has not been one of them,
until about 2 years ago.
The
best thing about being an author is being able to create and tell stories from
scratch and seeing characters come to life with each typed line. It is amazing
to realize that completely different people all over the world read your books.
The
worst thing? Well, maybe it is the fear there will come a day when I will not
be able to write anymore, or that I will not write anything better than I’ve
already written.
What was the very first thing you ever wrote?
The
first thing I wrote was a small poem. It happened accidently. I wrote about the
experience in my blog http://www.anialexander.com/breathingword/
What made you create (your book)? How did it come to you?
I
had lost touch with my friend for more than 15 years. Then one day she found me
on Facebook. When she told me about her life during those years I was very
impressed. When she finished telling her story I was sure that it could become
either a good book or a movie.
Who is your literary hero?
I
don’t really have a literary hero. But I hate characters who are weak,
indecisive and confused.
How much of your characters are based on your
traits or someone you know personally?
Since
the book is based on a true story most of the characters are real. Well almost,
since I slightly changed them in the book and added a few fiction accents.
Annika for example is my real life friend.
Describe your main character in six words.
Caring,
bold, strong, impulsive, intelligent and passionate.
Describe the world you’ve created in six words.
A
world full of love, unexpected events, passion, choices, decisions and hope.
What scene was your favorite to write?
I
loved writing about Stefan’s wedding from which he walked away.
What scene was the hardest for you to write?
The
last chapter seemed to be the hardest.
What are you working on now?
I started drafting a new book. At this point I am
trying to finalize the main plot elements. The writing itself will start in
November. I am planning to participate in NaNoWriMo – just like I did last
year.
Goals? Accomplishments? Improvements?
Goals:
Writing and publishing my next book.
Accomplishments:
My short story Stars was published by Paulo Coelhio at his blog. Both of my books
“Emotional Moments” and “Highfall” became Amazon bestsellers.
Improvements:
Need to work more on marketing and sales.
Are there any authors or books you recommend?
Right
now I am reading Guillaume Musso, whom I liked. I would also recommend Milan
Kundera – his writings are extremely sensual and thought provoking. Also I
enjoy reading Khaled Hosseini and John Irving.
What's your favorite thing to do when you're
not writing?
I
love reading, good movies and tasty food.
