[This interview has been taken with the Second Place Winner of the Mystery/Thriller Category - Kapuyo ]
WOCA: When and why did you start writing the winning book? What were your motivations?
WINNER: I started writing the book about two years ago, but immediately trashed it when I realized that I really didn't have a plot to the story. But I recently picked it up again about nine months ago out of boredom. This is a very personal story to me because one of my biggest inspirations is my grandfather, who gave me the initial idea for the story. He is my biggest motivator for the story for always pushing me to go farther with my writing. The story wouldn't exist if it wasn't for him.
WOCA: What inspired you to create the characters? What about the plot?
WINNER: My characters are always based off of real people in my life. Whether I alter the character, that's completely based upon the theme and plot of the story. But the embryonic description of the characters are based on real people who I keep dear to my heart. And, again, my grandfather gave me the idea for the plot. While there may be many personal anecdotes and stories, there are also many ideas that come straight from his mind and onto the paper.
WOCA: How did you get past the difficult moments, like the famous writer's block, short time or dislikes from other people?
WINNER: The most difficult moments are when I have absolutely no motivation to write, which comes more often than I'd hope. But I do things that keep me in the right mindset of my book. I make soundtracks, I find face claims for the characters, or I browse through Pinterest for thematic elements. I even made a trailer to keep me pushing through those tough moments. My friends and readers are always a big help, always keeping my spirits high yet modest at the same time.
WOCA: Why did you enter the awards? Were you expecting to win the prize?
WINNER: I was actually tagged to enter in the awards, and out of boredom (and possibly looking for a good laugh), I entered. I was not at all expecting to win such a high award at all. Right after I entered, I began to scout the other truly amazing stories in the same category, and my confidence level burrowed into its grave once I saw their reads compared to mine.
WOCA: What is your advice for the future writers?
WINNER: My advice for future writers is to pour your heart and soul into your stories. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and let your inner self explode onto the page. This keeps your story real, authentic, and 100% yours. Thank you so much for this opportunity, I look forward to reading everybody else's amazing stories.
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A/N: Thank you so much for taking the interview! I hope your story will rise and become what you want it to be!
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