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You know people are wondering so I have to ask, how do you pronounce your name?
My name is pronounced Ta-nee-ya. Add that to my married name and you have a mouthful. Before I was married my maiden name was Lawrence. One syllable helped balance out my first name because most people can pronounce Lawrence. But now (laughing), I can forget it. Both my names get butchered all the time.
Where did you grow up?
I was born in Brooklyn, New York. When I was five I moved to Roanoke, Virginia where I was raised by maternal grandparents. I went back to New York every summer so I guess I had the best of both worlds.
How did your childhood contribute to you becoming a writer?
My mother is a retired teacher. Most of her friends were educators also so I think that influenced me greatly. She's very creative and always had books around. As a child I liked to perform, make things, and read. I would put on shows in my my mother's living room and hold her and her friends hostage. They were kind enough to indulge me. For a few years I seriously considered becoming a comedienne. My godmother would buy me joke and riddle books so I could hone my craft. I would watch Carol Burnett every night because my goal was to be like her one day. I grew out of that phase and began writing poems and short stories. I'm still a funny girl though.
Your family obviously encouraged you to tap into your talents. When did you realize you were blessed with the gift of writing/communicating?
Well, I've always liked to talk. Since I had access to so many books it expanded my vocabulary immensely. After reading Summer of My German Soldier, I began choosing a word of the week from the dictionary like the main character did; however, it wasn't until high school that people really started to take notice. Based on my propensity for writing and English, I attended a magnet school my senior year. A lot of emphasis was placed on writing. We participated in workshops and performed exercises that I still employ today.
Okay. What inspires and motivates you to write?
Whatever the Lord places on my heart. He always starts with a title first. After that He gives me the topics He wants covered and the outline and characters are developed from there.
Interesting. He gives you the titles first. Why is that?
I like words and I've always been enthralled by titles. I remember the first title I fell in love with was called Sweet Whispers Brother Rush. I'll never forget it. I had to read that story. That's God's nature. He takes what we like and expands on it so it can be used for His glory.
Something More Than This sounds intriguing. It makes people want to know what is this and is there something more out there.
Exactly.
What other interesting titles can you share?
He gave me a short story called Strippin' for Jesus. When He allows me to do so, I am going to release a compilation of short stories and that one will be included. I love that story.
Now that's a story I can't wait to read. Back to Something More Than This, who would you say this novel is for?
This book is for anyone who has ever wondered if this life has more to offer than what they've experienced thus far. Which would really be everyone. We all reach that point in our lives.
Inquiring minds want to know, is Janaye's story your story?
Some parts are. I think Janaye's story is everyone's story in some way or another.
You've eluded to the fact that there will be other books. Will we be hearing more from Janaye in the future?
Yes, there will definitely be other books in addition to the book of short stories I mentioned. I am currently working on my next release and I have the titles and outlines for two other books as well. At this point I don't have any plans to bring Janaye back but I will not rule it out. I've recently learned a valuable lesson about saying what I'm not going to do. It can be humbling, let me tell you.
You are giving us a lot to look forward to. If these upcoming novels are as good as Something More Than This, readers are in for a treat. How would you describe your writing style?
I am a very descriptive writer. I like transporting my readers to the center of the story; however, I still leave things to the imagination. I try to be less descriptive about what a love interest may look like or what city/town the story takes place in because I want my readers to insert the things that they can identify with or enjoy. I try to keep it basic in that regard.
Are there any interesting facts about your writing that you would like to share?
Hmmm, who have you been talking to? Actually there is. I try to put things unique to me in my stories. I do a little something for those who are new to me, but I consider it fun trivia for people who know me best. I think they'll be like, "Alright. I see what you did right there." I may use a name of a street from my childhood or strategically use the names of family members. For example, there's a character in the book named Pastor Randolph, Randolph is actually my father's last name. With that being said, let me clarify that my stories and characters are not about my friends or family--don't be calling me y'all (laughing)!
We've discussed your creative side and your interest in trivia, name one other thing you are known for.
I would have to say my smile. I get a lot of compliments on it. I smile all the time. I am a happy person and I also work with the public so smiling comes naturally for me. The other day a friend of mine said, "One gift God has blessed you with is the ability to take over the space you inhabit with your smile..." I received it. It was a wonderful compliment and I thought it was profound because I know God can use the smallest things about us to make the biggest impact.
What is your goal as an author?
My goal is souls for the Kingdom by sharing the Word one story at a time. Once that seed is sown it will not return void.
What is your biggest accomplishment to date?
There are a few things actually. My family. My husband and I have been married for 15 years this past March and it's still new, good, and getting better every day. Our children. When I see what God is doing in their lives, it's amazing. Becoming a published author. My husband has a definition of success. I guess you could call it our family mantra. He defines success as "accomplishing God's will for our lives." God has called me to be a wife, mother, and author and I'm doing all three. I guess that makes me successful.
I guess it does.
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