Ask the Author: M.J. Umland
Answered Questions (9)
M.J. Umland
Actually, my reading list is a bit short. I'm currently working on the next book in The Willow Lake Series, Reunion. On the list is Deadly Still Water by, Mac McRyan, The Ninth Circle by, Lincoln Cole and Pitch Black by, Elise Noble to name a few. One book I did recently read that was outstanding was Thandi's Love by Angel Stallings. A wonderful and highly recommended book. Be sure to put it on the top of your Summer read!
M.J. Umland
I believe my inspiration is divinely given. Ideas and plots pop in my head, and I do my best to write them down. Also, I would say my inspiration comes from people and situations I've met, or have known, as well as have experienced in my own life. My inspiration to use strong female characters and pressing circumstances stem from the strong women in my life such as my mother, or I create a character and a life situation that the reader may identify with.
M.J. Umland
One of my favorite fictional couples are Jack and Rebecca on the tv show This Is Us. I love their family structure and the sacrifices they make to keep the family and their marriage solid.
M.J. Umland
That's a good question. Usually, I go for a long walk. I live in Arkansas so the fresh air and scenery seem to inspire me and clear my mind. Sometimes going back and rereading a chapter or two is helpful. Mostly, I just write down whatever pops into my head and keep writing until I get past it.
M.J. Umland
I think the best thing about being a writer is doing something you are passionate about and sharing that passion with others. I love shutting out the world, sitting down at my laptop and getting lost in a new world I'm creating. We all need somewhere to escape to once in a while and I find it rewarding sharing that escape.
M.J. Umland
My sincere advice would be, don't give up. Write, write, write. It doesn't matter what you put down, you can edit it later. Keep that imagination and creativity flowing. Read as much as possible. I also watch movies in the genre in which I'm writing to gather even more inspiration. Find someone you trust to collaborate with. My son, who also is an author is my go to person when I feel like pulling my hair out!
M.J. Umland
Currently, I'm working on Volume Two of The Willow Lake Series as well as a poetry book and a fiction novel that will bring the 1800's into modern day in a surprising twist.
M.J. Umland
It's been my passion for as long as I can remember. I began reading full novels at age six and writing poetry by the age of eleven. My father was an English major. Under his tutelage, I wrote several poems and short stories.
M.J. Umland
Thank you for asking. The idea came from many sources. I pulled some things from my own life and struggles, and others, my imagination. I like to put my female characters in situations that reveal their strengths as well as their weaknesses.
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