Ask the Author: Jennifer Chastain
Answered Questions (3)
Jennifer Chastain
My inspiration comes from various sources. I might see a news story that makes me wonder about backstory. Or a TV show (most reality TV). I find a lot of inspiration in country music songs. I wasn't a fan until about 4 years ago when I really started listening to the lyrics. I would find the complete lyrics online, and some of the messages are just, wow! There is a lot of depth in lyrics. Other times, I'll be having a conversation and someone will say something, I'll have to tell them "hold that thought" while I go find a piece of paper and a pen. Most days, I'll just dictate into the notes app on my phone! You just never know where your inspiration for a story will come from.
Jennifer Chastain
My advice for aspiring writers is to don't give up. Writing is tough, let's face it, you're putting your work out there, and be prepared to face rejection. The path to publication is all in timing. The right editor or agent will eventually come along and read your work and love it. Another important aspect to a writer's life is to network with other authors, published and unpublished. Find a writing group, critique group, a local writing chapter. Attend a writing conference or workshop. Many are being held virtually now. I get it, the majority of writers are introverts. It's tough to put yourself out there, but in the end, it is so worth the effort. I've met some wonderful writers over the past five years and I wouldn't trade the conference experience for anything. Keep learning, keep growing because someday you will be someone's favorite author!
Jennifer Chastain
Good question! I love Hallmark Christmas movies. Shoot, I love most Christmas movies! I'm also a big fan of the reality show Married at First Sight. So I started thinking about a Christmas marriage of convenience story. But my two main characters have history, so they definitely don't have an easy path to romance. I don't like cliffhanger endings, so all my stories have a happily-ever-after. with everything going on in people's lives today, we all need an escape and something that makes us feel good after reading or watching.
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