New Writer's Showcase
Annetta P. Lee
M.T.: What inspired you to write A Bitter Rose?
A.P.L.: While serving as prayer counselor for young adult women in my church, I kept running into women with a common thread. Unresolved issues with their mothers. It touched me because I had struggled with the same with the same dilemma for years.
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M.T.: Where did you get your title from?
A.P.L.: The title is a blend of the malady that is spun from these types of issues,
and my mother's first name. "Rose"
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M.T.: What is your writing schedule like?
A.P.L.: I'm still working full time, so my writing is done on my lunch hour, in the
evenings and on weekends.
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M.T.: Who are some of the authors who influenced you?
A.P.L.: Victoria Holt, Agatha Christie and Janette Oake.
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M.T.: What book are you reading now? What is the first line of the book?
A.P.L.: I'm reading "The Blue Bottle Club" by Penelope J. Stokes. The first line:
In the watery dimness of a December afternoon, the attic looked dismal and a
little spooky.
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M.T.: How long have you been writing?
A.P.L.: I've been writing since elementary school. I was raised by strict
grandparents, and often only spoke when spoken to. Writing down my feelings soon turned into poetry and short stories.
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M.T.: What is the premise of A Bitter Rose? What is the subtext?
A.P.L.: The true yearning of our heart is a 'seed of destiny', planted by God.
God has a plan, and if we yield to His leading, it will manifest.
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M.T.: What have you done to market your book?
A.P.L.: Booksignings and radio interviews.
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M.T.: Are you at work on another book?
A.P.L.: Yes. I'm working on two others and playing with an idea for a fourth.
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M.T.: What advice would you give to other aspiring writers?
A.P.L.: a) Write in the passion, and for the pure joy, nothing else.
b) Read a lot
c) Do your homework
d) Be patient
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M.T.: Thank you, Annetta.