Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Over the years I have written numerous novels. This is the first I am sharing with the world.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The novel I am releasing is Carmella. It was completely inspired by an event that I witnessed many years ago. Beautiful girl with a so so guy..he was publicly abusing her mentally and physically. I intervened and was quickly shut down by this women for trying to help her. The situation left me wondering why in Gods name would that girl stay in that relationship…my brain just couldn’t comprehend it.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Ahh there is no doubt my writing habits are not the norm! I write a lot on napkins. (I am a waitress by day and a writer by night) I write short blurbs so I won’t forget! I would not recommend as a lot of material has taken a spin through the washing machine and been lost forever !
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Bronte anything Bronte. My first experience with the Brontes was with Charlottes Jane Eyre. Her writing style spoke to my soul. Her flow and plot developed instantly grabbed me like no other. My love for Emily’s Wuthering Heights is eternal. I have had so many copies of this book.. I should be a share holder!
What are you working on now?
I am still working on the sequel to Carmella right now. But I have multiple books in the pan that I am juggling! I have a mid range YA book that is filled with hysterical adventures of a brother and sister growing up with two very dysfunctional parents….more to come on that at a later date.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Amazon has been a great place to start. Facebook is also a great tool.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes write and write so more. When you think its completely polished and ready to fly …wait a few weeks and look at it again. You will be surprised at the changes you will want to make. Carmella has been sitting in a file for almost 3 years before I became completely comfortable with it. Ask unbiased friends to preview and get as much feed back as you can !
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Best advice comes from William Shakespeare’s character Polonius..”This above all: to thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man.” If that doesn’t speak volumes ..I don’t know what does. Follow what makes you ..you.
What are you reading now?
I am reading “Crooked little Lies by Barbara Sissel”. Her writing style is very interesting and engaging to me. The plot is well thought out and suspenseful ..a fun read.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Sharing my work is a whole new world for me. For now.. I will continue to enjoy the conversation that has been started with Carmella. Carmella hits home for a larger group than I imagined. Being able to discuss a topic freely that was once considered taboo is a small break through in correcting a very real problem.
What is your favorite book of all time?
Ahh, I don’t have just one favorite ! As stated before Wuthering Heights is the closest book I could list as favorite of all time!
Author Websites and Profiles
Heather Justry Amazon Profile
Heather Justry’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile