Ask the Author: Talis Jones
Answered Questions (6)
Talis Jones
I'm currently working on two different series: a fantasy trilogy and a 5-book dystopian series of stand-alones. The first books for both will be released in 2018. Besides that I have a few standalone novels waiting in the wings primed and ready to go!
Talis Jones
Relax. For me taking a long walk/hike (cool weather or rain is oddly preferable), playing the piano, praying, meditating, taking a nap, or simply setting my current project aside entirely for a little while helps combat writer's block. Trying to force an idea to come only makes things worse.
Also refusing to procrastinate when an idea strikes me. Procrastination is the number one cause of death for my ideas. When it's there I must write it down, just vomit up everything ready to flow from my brain and capture it. Sometimes it's a terrible idea anyway, but sometimes it's my next novel. But if I don't write it down and start brainstorming or outlining (even if I can't actually start writing it at the time) then the idea will fizzle and disappear forever like a good dream you just can't quite remember. Very annoying.
Also refusing to procrastinate when an idea strikes me. Procrastination is the number one cause of death for my ideas. When it's there I must write it down, just vomit up everything ready to flow from my brain and capture it. Sometimes it's a terrible idea anyway, but sometimes it's my next novel. But if I don't write it down and start brainstorming or outlining (even if I can't actually start writing it at the time) then the idea will fizzle and disappear forever like a good dream you just can't quite remember. Very annoying.
Talis Jones
Being a writer is like being able to bottle a dream. Instead of letting it dissipate upon waking, you coax it out from the shadows and write it down so you can visit whenever you wish. Having an idea become a novel is a truly satisfying feeling.
Talis Jones
Do the work. Enjoy the work. Share the work.
Just do it and don't let yourself care about what anyone else will think. You gotta force yourself to get that first draft written then put in the work for edits, beta readers, querying (if that's for you), and simply doing the WORK. People are going to hate what you write, they're going to love what you write, but don't let those fears or hopes stand in your way. Write anyway.
Just do it and don't let yourself care about what anyone else will think. You gotta force yourself to get that first draft written then put in the work for edits, beta readers, querying (if that's for you), and simply doing the WORK. People are going to hate what you write, they're going to love what you write, but don't let those fears or hopes stand in your way. Write anyway.
Talis Jones
Honestly I get most of my ideas at the most inconvenient of times such as in the shower, during church, on a really long drive, etc. Anything that allows my mind to relax (trying to force an idea to come only makes my imagination shut down further) but also music. Music is a huge part of my life and I get a lot of inspiration from it (hence why I love putting together playlists for all of my books!).
Talis Jones
Be bold. Be brave! Shoot me an email with your bookish credentials (blog, social media, etc. Basically links to wherever you post about books) and I just may say Yes.
I can't offer physical ARCs and I can only offer a limited number of Kindle eARC copies but if you're interested in giving my book a read AND a review then by all means toss your hat in the ring.
I can't offer physical ARCs and I can only offer a limited number of Kindle eARC copies but if you're interested in giving my book a read AND a review then by all means toss your hat in the ring.
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