Interview with Tialla Rising

Hey guys!

It was an honor for me to be able to recently interview an amazing writer,  published author and good friend of mine, Tialla Rising.

So Tialla we all know you through the reputation of your five star novel, Holding the Future Hostage. Tell us, did publishing the book change you as a person in any way?

Definitely.  I learned so many things through the writing, editing, and publishing process.  Not only that, but I found my passion and career.  Up until I published the book, I really didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life.  Now, I have no doubt.  The whole process – every step of writing, editing, revising, and marketing is exhilarating and instills in me time and time again that this is what I was born to do.  I praise God every day for giving me the means to do it.

Who was the number one influence in writing the book?

Oh, that’s so hard to choose.  If I’m completely honest, I have to say Christopher Paolini (author of the Eragon books).  I was inspired by him to write (and publish!) because he was also a homeschooler – like myself at the time.  Not only that, but I loved his books.  I thought if he could do it, so could I.

Are there any number one distractions or obstacles that come between you and your writing?

The internet, siblings, cleaning, and work.  Not necessarily in that order, though.

It’s so hard to concentrate on my writing when the internet is only a click away – which is actually where MyTomatoes (mytomatoes.com) came in handy.  Once I put myself on a timer, I was much more productive.  It’s a psychological thing, I guess, but it worked.

I also say my siblings and cleaning because there are always things needing to be done around the house.  I often can’t concentrate on writing when I know there’s a bathroom to scrub, dishes to be washed, and bookshelves to be dusted.

And lastly, work.  While I am exceedingly blessed to have a job, and I definitely need the income, sometimes I wish I had more time to write.  I wouldn’t trade my job for anything, though. ;)

Is there anything you can tell us about future projects?

More likely than not, my current project will turn into a trilogy, if not four books.  I have a pretty good idea for the premise of the third and fourth books, but I’m not sure if I’ll write both or if I’ll choose one out of the two.

What was the hardest part in the writing process?

Getting the first draft written.  For me, it’s a huge juggling act until the final word is written and I know the draft is complete.  Only then can I lean back and afford a sigh.  It’s a huge weight off my shoulders when the story is all written down and no longer just in my head or outlines.  While I’m still working on that first draft, it honestly feels like everything is up in the air and I never know if it is actually going to work until it’s completely written.

RANDOM:

Favorite food?

Anything – everything – Italian.  And preferably with shrimp. :)

Introvert or Extrovert?

I’m more of an ambivert, actually – which is between the two.  In all honesty, I suppose I go through phases.  Sometimes, for days (weeks, occasionally) I will be a huge introvert.  I just won’t want to leave the house, drive, socialize, or anything.  Then at other times I thrive on the energy from other people – especially if it’s excitement regarding my writing.  I suppose it just depends on the situation (and my mood), really.

Writing with or without music in the background?

Without.  I know most authors need to have their “mood” music – and they recommend it for other authors – but that has never worked for me.  I get distracted by music, even if it is only instrumental.  I LOVE music, which is why I can’t write with it playing…it distracts me too much.

Favorite TV show?

Monk.  Hands down. :)  I love my OCD detective.  I only wish Netflix still had Monk on Instant Streaming.

Mystery or Fantasy?

Oooh that’s a hard one.  I love both genres!  If I absolutely had to choose, though, I suppose I’d go with mystery.  I can’t pass up a good crime mystery (which is probably why I love Monk so much!).  This possibly stems from being raised on Nancy Drew Mysteries.

Justin Bieber or One Direction?

Neither? ;)  I’m much more a Michael Jackson person.  Though I have to say, as far as modern bands go, Pentatonix is AMAZING.

Celebrity crush?

I have so many celebrity crushes that it’s impossible to say just one.  Johnny Depp is always at the top of my list.  After him is definitely Tom Hiddleston, then Gerard Butler, Richard Armitage, Christian Bale, Avi Kaplan, Robert Downey Jr., and Hugh Jackman.  My “women crushes” include Helena Bonham Carter, Keira Knightley, and Natalie Portman.

Thanks for having me, Kiah!  I enjoyed answering your questions.

~KJ