WRITTEN INTERVIEWS

TLOP Interviews Marva Riley

Interview

Life experiences inspire me to share them.” Marva Riley

What is your name, where are you from and what are your hobbies?

My name is Marva Riley.  I am originally from the island of Jamaica.  I currently reside in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

How did growing up as a writer looked like for you?

I did not grow up as a writer. I took an interest in writing as a middle aged adult.

Does writing energize or exhaust you?

Writing makes me come alive, energizes me.

Did you ever consider writing under a pseudonym?

Writing under a pseudonym never occurred to me before.

How did publishing your first book (If you have any) change your process of writing?

I Self-Published my first (and only) book.  Since then, I’ve started on a new book which I expect to publish in 2021.

What do you owe the real people upon whom you base your characters?

I owe these real people my thanks.  Their experiences enriched mine.

Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?

I do read my book reviews.  Thankfully, I have not had any bad ones yet.  I suspect that I will and intend to take the “bad” ones in stride, learning from it.  The good reviews inspire me & I’m quick to send a thank you note to the reviewers.

What inspires you to write?

Life experiences inspire me to share them. My partner inspires me to write these experiences.

How do you expect your book (If you have any) to connect with your readers?

I believe that my readers will be well connected to my book as it’s subject matter (health) is relatable. Also, my first-person style of writing will cause them to feel like they have also been there, like they know me personally.

What was your hardest scene to write in one of your books (If you have any)?

The last chapter was perhaps the hardest, I had so much more to say, but I wanted a short, concise, easy to read book.

Why should I purchase your book (If you have any)?

You should purchase my book because therein lies many tips to excellent health.  My book is also very simple to understand, easy to read, not too long, not too short and will keep you captivated so that you cannot put it down till you’re done.



Do you want each of the book you write (If you have any) to stand on its own, or are you trying to build a body of work with connections between each book?

I am trying to connect all my work.  Health  & wellness is such an encompassing subject matter.  It’s not just about food, exercise, but  social issues, environment, finance.

What do you believe are the common traps for aspiring writers?

Common traps for aspiring writers…have to think a bit about this one.  Perhaps the finance to do what’s necessary to get the work out there.  Writing the book is fun.  Marketing is hard work and takes us out of our comfort zone.

If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

I would tell my younger self writing to start to market before the book is published.  Don’t be afraid to tell everybody about your book. It ca be daunting.