Featured Author: Olivia Hardin

[Tawdra Kandle]

1. Tell us about your latest book.

This is the second in my MAUCs Series - and if you don't know, that stands for Magical And Undead Creatures. Lynlee is the star of this series and she's a witch who's job is to keep MAUCs out of trouble. In this story we can to see how she deals with her re-kindling romance with Beck as well as tracking down a dark witch who is up to no good.

2. Where did the idea for the book come from?

I tend to follow my stories, so of course I just started writing and went along for the ride. However, in this book we get to meet Lynlee's best friend, Rhiannon who is a were-vamp and a doctor. Rhiannon's characters was created by one of my fans (Lisa Markson) after she won a contest when the first MAUCs book released.

3. Who and what inspire you to write?

Everything around me.

4. Each author has his or her own inspiring journey. How did you begin writing?

I was probably about 15 or so when I began carrying spiral bound notebooks around with me and scribbling little stories in them. I used to pass those stories around to my friends at school and I always said I was going to be a writer. I rediscovered that dream just a few years ago when I met some great authors who mentored and inspired me to make my dreams come true. 

5. What has been the most pleasant surprise about writing? How about an unexpected down side?

Getting the opportunity to mentor other new writers has been the most pleasant surprise. Downside? Marketing... I worry I'm not doing it write or that I should be spending more time writing.

6. Do you have any writing rituals?

Well, I usually write sitting on the couch with the hubby watching TV in the background. Soon, when I am a full time writer, I will start writing in my very own special place... a building we are fixing up on our property and which I affectionately call "The Summer House". The hubby thinks I should call it "Olivia's Book Haven". What do you guys think?

7. Do you write your books in order?

Almost always. Since I follow the characters its hard for me to visualize things out of order.

8. What is on your writing playlist for this book?

I know this is weird, but for this particular story I didn't make a playlist! I have no idea why. *hides under desk* .

9. Any favorite writing snacks?

Since I'm trying to be healthier these days, I have been eating nuts, mostly almonds.

10. What advice would you give writers who aspire to be published?

I know I've said it many times, but find a support group. I could never have gotten to this point without my mentors, crit partners, friends and family. You need people to prop you up and kick you in the rear along the way.

11. Are you working on anything new right now?

I am working on a Bend-Bite-Shift Short story to come out in September and then I'll begin the new For Love of Fae Trilogy.

12. Who is your favorite character in your current book?

For this book, I really like Lynlee. I like that we get to hear things from her head and she always has something quirky or snarky or funny to say or think. She's definitely a trip.. 

13. What is your favorite book of all time?

Since I've answered this before, I'll give you my SECOND favorite: Glory Road by Robert Heinlein

14. Tell us in one sentence why we should read your book.

Because I pour my heart into every word...

Stalk Olivia!

Website

Twitter

Facebook