Q: Where do you get the inspiration for your characters?
A: All of my characters are in some way or another a reflection of myself, my friends, and the person I would like to be. In some cases, some characters are inspired by celebrities, so there's quite a blending there, hence the depth I give to them :)
Q: What are your goals as a writer?
A: That question can be answered two-fold. First off, as a writer, as someone in an "artistic" field, I want to grow, challenge myself and be the best story teller I can be. Secondly, my goals are also to bring about awareness about certain subjects or to make people stop and think, and those goals are as important to me, if not moreso than the first ;)
Q: Sorry, but the relationship between Katie & Linda bothered me – for the same reason some of Linda’s friends seemed cautious – I really didn’t like the fact that Katie didn’t take a stronger stand with her parents before the parents’ attempt to control escalated into the violence they perpetrated against the couple. However, Linda’s willingness to accept Katie’s flaw demonstrated more of her love and need for Katie.
Do you, as the author, think that Katie & Linda might not have clicked together so well if Katie had been “out” earlier on and not so fearful of her parents?
A: That's a biggie! First off, let me admit that Katie is a reflection of my non-confrontational side. I'm not saying it's right. I'm also a small gal and have easily been pushed around. I do think that you're right, and that perhaps that is an area in which Katie (and I) need(s) to grow as a person.
Katie and Linda clicked because despite this one MAJOR issue, they were both very good for each other. Regardless of her parents, Katie had her goals for life in place when she met Linda. She was far different from the other girls Linda had dated, and Katie's independence in that regard was extremely important to Linda and their relationship. Linda also gave Katie the support during school that she couldn't even get from her own parents. Linda introduced Katie to what a real, healthy, happy relationship should be. So, I think that regardless of Katie's relationship and issues with her parents, those two were meant to be.
Q: How often do you write?
A: I try to write daily. It can be anywhere from just a few words to about 10,000 words, but I try to do something every day.
Q: You've said Loving Her is out, and Imperfect will be out later this year. What other projects are you working on?
A: I'm working on several pieces right now. I am trying to finish up my first suspense novel (the real suspense is finding out if it's worth its weight in salt! LOL). I'm also working on prequels for all of the characters in Loving Her, and of course the sequel to Imperfect :)
Q: What is the best way for me to find out more about your books, get copies, etc.?
A: That's easy! :) Two websites: www.vanillaheartbooksandauthors.com <--- That's my publisher's website. You can find out more about my books, and all the other great VHP authors out there, and buy books in any form (e-book, kindle, print, etc.). You can also check out my website www.leharvey.com That page has lots about me, my work, my books and more. Check 'em both out! You won't be disappointed!! :)
