Author Donna Figueroa Shares Their Story
I’m an artist living and working in Los Angeles, CA. I began my career as an actor during my junior year at Emerson College in Boston, MA. I’ve always written, but honestly never saw myself publishing anything. However, after one of my short stories was published in a literary magazine, I found myself writing more and wanting to get my work into the hands of readers.
My writer’s journey has been interesting to say the least. My current novel, Fall Again: Lost Boy in the second installment of a four-part contemporary romantic series. The first installment Beginnings was published in June, while the final installments (California Girl and Reunion) will be published in 2016. I’d always wanted to write a story that depicted working actors realistically. Being a lover of romance fiction, it seemed natural to tell my story inside of the world of professional artists; a world that is often misunderstood and misrepresented.
I’m still a working actor. My credits this year include a commercial and two audiobooks.
On a personal note, I’m originally from Cincinnati, Ohio. I’m married to a wonderful writer and comedian, Tony Figueroa. I enjoy travelling, vintage clothing and anything having to do with Classic Hollywood. I consider myself a world class shopper who is always in search of the ultimate bargain.
About the Author
I’m an artist living and working in Los Angeles, CA. I began my career as an actor during my junior year at Emerson College in Boston, MA. I’ve always written, but honestly never saw myself publishing anything. However, after one of my short stories was published in a literary magazine, I found myself writing more and wanting to get my work into the hands of readers.
My writer’s journey has been interesting to say the least. My current novel, Fall Again: Lost Boy in the second installment of a four-part contemporary romantic series. The first installment Beginnings was published in June, while the final installments (California Girl and Reunion) will be published in 2016. I’d always wanted to write a story that depicted working actors realistically. Being a lover of romance fiction, it seemed natural to tell my story inside of the world of professional artists; a world that is often misunderstood and misrepresented.
I’m still a working actor. My credits this year include a commercial and two audiobooks.
On a personal note, I’m originally from Cincinnati, Ohio. I’m married to a wonderful writer and comedian, Tony Figueroa. I enjoy travelling, vintage clothing and anything having to do with Classic Hollywood. I consider myself a world class shopper who is always in search of the ultimate bargain.
What inspires you to write romance books?
I would describe myself as sensitive and sympathetic. I fascinated by the complexities of human relationships and interactions. I believe that we al desire to love and be loved. I think it’s only natural that I would gravitate to romantic fiction.
Tell us about how you write:
I love spilling my thoughts and ideas onto a page and seeing what happens. Yes, I always have an idea of where my characters and storylines are heading, but it’s always interesting…and fun to let the imagination take over. In my current series, Fall Again, new characters appeared when I needed them, something that may not have happened if I’d taken a more traditional approach to writing. Unfortunately, writing spontaneously like this means that I often overwrite. Luckily I have an excellent editor who always helps me get to the essence of my narratives.
Do you listen (or talk to) to your characters?
Yes! I have to listen to my characters to maintain their integrity. I’ve found that when I’m not listening or ignoring my characters, they’ll literally keep me awake at night until I make the necessary changes to keep them “honest”.
It also helps me to read my dialogue sections aloud. This allows me to really hear what my characters are saying. Sometimes I’ll find myself cringing at my own words and thinking, “who talks like this?” Then I’ll start my revisions with a very clear idea of what my characters are really saying.
What advice would you give other writers?
Write honestly.
Write from the heart.
Dare to be brutally honest.
Don’t be afraid to tap into your emotions.
How did you decide how to publish your books?
I’m a fairly new author and still learning about the business. I decided to self-publish so I could get my work into the hands of readers, and of course, to keep control of my work. In the future, I could see myself going in a more traditional route if the right opportunity presented itself.
What do you think about the future of book publishing?
Book publishing has changed so much over the past several years, and in my opinion, will continue to change. There will always be traditional publishers, but now, there will also be more and more outlets for self-published authors.
Book publishing is an area that will continue to evolve as technology becomes more accessible to writers. It’s amazing what you can do from your home computer.
What genres do you write:: Romance & Fiction
What formats are your books in: Both eBook and Print
Website(s)
Author Home Page Link
Link To Author Page On Amazon
Your Social Media Links
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14053582.Donna_Figueroa
https://www.facebook.com/fallagainseries/
https://twitter.com/fallagainseries
