An Author's Portfolio

Cupid's Charm Awards

By the Sylphira_Community:

     Congratulations on your award! How does it feel to be recognized for your work on Wattpad?

     Thank you, it feels great! This is actually the second version of my original blurb, and I'm really happy with how it's turned out, and winning this award lets me know that my readers feel the same way.

     Can you tell us a little about your winning book? What inspired you to write it? What was the most challenging part of writing your book, and how did you overcome it?

     My winning book is titled "Always Faithful", and it's about a staff sergeant in the Marine Corps who tries to solve her murder after she is killed in a "training accident" with the help of her fiancé and the woman who received her heart after she needed a transplant. It is categorized as a Paranormal Crime-Romance, and it is rated Mature, so it isn't for all audiences.

     I was inspired by my favorite locations in Southern California, as well as several friends and family members who passed unexpectedly. Lyla Lane is named after one of these people.

     Because this is my first attempt at an original, full-length novel, it was difficult for me to brainstorm enough of the plot so I could start writing. And I initially struggled with the Point-Of-View because there are so many characters in play, which is why I am currently rewriting the story in a different format.

     How do you develop your characters and plot? Do you have a specific process or routine?

     I wouldn't call it a routine, but I typically start with a base foundation for my characters when the idea comes to me, then slowly work up from there, further developing their traits as the plot grows.

     What role does reader feedback on Wattpad play in your writing process?

     So far, reader feedback hasn't influenced my writing process too much, since I had started writing most of my stories before joining Wattpad, but their support is always appreciated and helps to motivate me.

     Were there any particular moments or feedback that stood out to you during the writing and publishing of your book?

     For "Always Faithful" specifically, I think winning first place in the Mystery Romance category of the Hot and Bothered Awards by gremlinsbookstash really made me realize that this could go somewhere, and helped affirm my knack for writing.

     How do you balance maintaining originality while catering to the preferences of Wattpad readers?

     While I haven't really gotten feedback from my readers on what they would like to see plot-wise, I have shortened both my paragraphs and chapters so they are more reader-friendly.

     What are your favorite genres to read and write, and why?

     My favorite genres to read are typically science fiction, or anything to deal with the paranormal and supernatural, with hints of romance. As for writing, I typically write works of fanfiction (i.e. Star Wars, Phantom of the Opera, and Harry Potter), occasionally dabble in poetry, and original work(s) that balance plot, action, and romance.