(AUTHOR INTERVIEW) Robyn Bachar

Today I will be interviewing the author Robyn Bachar for a blog tour!

What inspired you to become an author?
According to my mother, I started writing when I was 3 years old and I never stopped. She even kept my first book, an epic tale called “The Sun Hearts” about a group of hearts that floated up to the sun and exploded into sprinkles. (This may have also influenced my choice in day job—I work in a bakery, and I do love sprinkles.)

What author influenced you the most?
I’m inspired by many of the authors that I’ve met as a member of the Romance Writers of America. Everyone is so supportive, and I love hearing their stories. The workshops at conferences and local chapter meetings are also very helpful to improving your craft.

Do you have a favourite author? (Or name a few)
My favorite romance author is Nora Roberts, because she’s made of awesome. I also enjoy Tiffany Reisz, Cathy Pegau, Jordan L. Hawk, K.J. Charles, Sheryl Nantus, Jim C. Hines, Mira Grant/Seanan McGuire, Ann Aguirre, and Steven Brust, to name a few. Really the best way to see what I’m bingeing on is to friend me on Goodreads.

What is the best writing advice you have ever received?
You have to give yourself permission to put garbage on the page, because everything can be fixed later in editing (except for a blank page). A first draft is supposed to be messy, and it’s okay to hate it.

What helps you write when you're stuck or have writer's block?
Brackets. When I’m stuck on a scene I use brackets to denote the problem area, like [put fight scene here] or [add transition later]. That way I can keep moving and come back to the problem area later.

Do you like to listen to music while you write? If so, who are your favourite artists?
I like instrumental music when I’m writing, because anything with lyrics will distract me into singing along. I have a Lindsey Stirling station on Pandora that I like to listen to while editing, or my film score station.

After a long day of writing what is your favourite tv show you like to watch?
I really can’t pick just one. I love cooking shows and home improvement shows.

What are you working on currently?
I’m working on the next book in the Just One Spell series, The Heart of the Oak. It expands on Cordelia and Nathaniel’s story while introducing a romance for Cara, Cordelia’s sister. I am really excited about it.

When you're not writing, what do you like to do?
Walk the dog. It’s good exercise and it’s relaxing—when she’s not chasing after a squirrel.

What are some of your most favourite books of all time?
The Siren by Tiffany Reisz is amazing. I’ve re-read the Three Sisters Island trilogy by Nora Roberts a few times, particularly Dance Upon the Air. I love Jordan L. Hawk’s Whyborne and Griffin series.

Is there anything specific you'd like to try writing about in the future?
I have plans for a new sci-fi series that will allow me to use some of the things I learned while working in a nuclear engineering lab.

Which of your characters do you love the most and why?
Out of all of my series I think that Simon in the Bad Witch books is my favorite. He’s so much fun to torment.

Which one of your books are you most proud of?
Hmm, that’s a hard question. It’s like trying to choose a favorite child. I’m proud of all of my books, but there are a few things in the Cy’ren Rising trilogy that I’m particularly proud of. It’s a fun setting to work with.

What is an interesting or hidden talent you have?
I’m a fantastic singer—in the car, with the windows rolled up.

Is there anything else you'd like my readers to know?
I think the hero in The Sephra’s Tear will appeal to anyone on Team Loki, or who sobbed for Snape. If you love angsty wizards, this book is for you!