Exclusive Interview with
Sharon Hughes
When did you start writing?
I started in my freshman year of high school, I took a journalism class and fell in love with writing.
What makes writing your passion?
I think it's because storytelling is timeless and it's a big part of how we learn.
How long have you been writing?
I can't remember ever not writing, but it did take a long time to decide what I would put into my book.
What was the feeling when you published your first book?
It was a cross between exhilarating and feeling very exposed.
What’s the story behind your choice of characters?
Well, quite honestly most of the characters were the villians in my life and without them I wouldn't have a crazy story to tell.
What annoys you the most in pursuing a writing career?
I don't think any part of it annoys me.
How do you get over the “writer’s block”?
I had so much content in my journals to pull from I didn't really have that problem.
We all know the writer’s path is never easy, what makes you keep going? What advice would you give to new authors?
My journey was fueled by helping others to break free and by my faith so it was actually pretty easy. I would tell new authors to think about that one person that will read your book, what do you want to say to him or her?
If you could go back in time and talk to your younger self, what would you say?
I would say believe in yourself and God and you won't go wrong!
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with the bad ones?
I do read them. I don't think I've had a bad one yet!
What is the feeling when you get a good review?
I'm like, wow really? And truly grateful that I could help someone know they can get to the other side of what they are struggling with,
Have you ever incorporated something that happened to you in real life into your novels?
Yep, my whole book is exactly that.
Which of your characters you can compare yourself with? Did you base that character on you?
This is my life testimony, so yep!
What do you think, the book cover is as important as the story?
My book cover definitely shows the struggle between good and evil that takes place on the pages.
Do you connect with your readers? Do you mind having a chat with them or you prefer to express yourself through your writing?
I'm super extraverted so I love talking to my readers :)
How do you feel when people appreciate your work or recognize you in public?
It feels kinda strange.
Who is your favorite author? Why?
I'm such a book nerd, I don't think I have a favorite author. When I read I want to feel connected to the author though.
What’s the dream? Whom would you like to be as big as?
Oh that's a hard question. I'm not sure about that!
Would you rewrite any of your books? Why?
I have thought about rewriting The Girl In The Garage to expand on the content and take the reader deeper. It could happen.
If you could switch places with any author – who would that be?
I think Holley Gerth, she inspires me and has played a role in where I am today.
What would you say to the “trolls” on the internet? We all know them – people who like to write awful reviews to books they’ve never read or didn’t like that much, just to annoy the author.
Put your effort into something good, you're wasting your life!
What would you say to your readers?
Thank you, thank you, thank you. It's an honor to write for you and to you!
Share a bit about yourself – where do you live, are you married, do you have kids?
I live in sunny Southern California, I have three adult children, a goofy cat named Lucy and I eat way too much popcorn.
What is your day job if you have one?
I'm fortunate to be a confidence coach.
What are your hobbies? What do you do in your free time?
It seems my face is always in a book and when its not I'm taking Krav Maga!
Did you have a happy childhood?
Heck no, did you read my book?
Is there a particular experience that made you start writing?
No, I think it started as a creative outlet.
Do you have unpublished books? What are they about?
I'm working on my next book and don't tell anyone it's about confidence.
What do you think should be improved in the education of our children? What do we lack?
Oh wow, how about real life skills. And get back to the basics of reading and writing.
If you were allowed 3 wishes – what would they be?
i can't tell you that, it's top secret.
What is your favorite music?
I love music; from jazz to rock to pop to gospel.
Share a secret with us 🙂
Hmmm, nope. Can't do it!