Interview with Stephanie Eding
How did you become a writer?
Writing is something I’ve always loved. In high school, I wrote Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter fan-fiction for my friends. In college, I transitioned to writing blogs and newspaper articles for my school paper. It wasn’t until I had my children that story ideas started to really flow. My family moved eight hours from my home when my husband got a new job. I knew no one and suddenly had extra free time being home all day with the kids. That’s when I started seriously pursuing my writing career—during nap time.
How do you develop your plot and characters?
My favorite way to develop a story is to free-write in a notebook. I gather all my colorful pens (I’m obsessed) and just start jotting down ideas. I like to listen to music that makes me think of my story and pin photos on designated Pinterest boards. When I have a full storyline together, I plot out each individual chapter in detail before typing anything up.
Could you share some of your challenges as a writer?
I think the hardest aspect of being a writer is time and balance. As a working mom, it’s tricky to carve out the time to sit down and really hammer out some words. My heart is always full after a good writing session, so I definitely have to be intentional about working it into my schedule.
Tell me about your protagonist. What's your favorite trait and/or weakness?
Writing Josie was super fun! She’s sarcastic and strong, but also nervous and awkward. She’s going through a lot in this story, and her favorite way to cope is through food, which I relate to on a deep level.
What are your current/future projects?
I’m currently working on another women’s fiction. My main character travels to an Air B&B in the middle of nowhere, Montana, and befriends the elderly woman who owns the property. It’s got a tiny house, a clumsy bulldog, a handsome contractor, and a hunt for family secrets. The two women bond over their mutual pursuit of freedom at different stages of life.
Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?
Read for other new writers. Yes, it’s absolutely important to read published works, too, but reading for other writers pursuing publication can help you better see what works and doesn’t in the story. The more you beta read or critique for others, the stronger your own writing becomes.
What is your preferred method for readers to get in touch with you?
