Interview with author Evie Alexis

Welcome author, Evie Alexis!


First, could you tell us what you are currently working on for publication or about your current release?

While working on several other projects, I am waiting for the release of my romantic comedy, Obsessive, Compulsive and Published! The date of ebook publication is set for December 2009. The paperback version releases a few weeks after.

Could you please tell us a little about yourself?

Born and bred New York City gal, I still live in the state, not so near the vicinity. When not writing, I teach English to young boys and girls, not to mention doing my best to raise two strapping young boys. I’m an avid reader, chocolate enthusiast and disciplined exerciser.

Give us a sneak peek into the book?

Obsessive, Compulsive and Published! is best described as a humorous romantic work. A continuation of its predecessor, The Obsessive Compulsive Romance Novelist, this novel continues recording the adventures of Erika Seals as she tries to lead a relatively normal life with her disorder. She believes herself more than victorious when an agent with an unusual name offers her representation services. While traveling the road to publication, Erika unravels a few mysteries presented through the pages of her manuscript, but her own personal dealings present even greater challenges. Her arch-nemesis is thrust back into her life, she learns she has to vacate her residence, and the love of her life, Elliot Beck, just may write a better romance novel than she does. Everything leads to a set of hilarious mishaps and sometimes setbacks for the poor, confused heroine.


Tell us about your writing process? Do you outline or just start writing?

I actually do both. The words jump into the page as I type (or draft in the back of a napkin) but I tend to outline what I want to happen in each chapter. Sometimes a perfect ending or scene pops into my mind and I type it into my rough draft anyway, leaving tons of space in between the current scene and the upcoming one.


What genre is your favorite to write? Read?

Chick-lit remains my all time favorite. Though it does have romantic themes, I like the challenge of women overcoming obstacles, not always in the context of a romantic relationship.


Do you have any favorite authors?

I enjoy ALL of Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte’s works. As far as modern writers go, Phillip Yancey is an amazing Christian writer. I also enjoy Sophie Kinsella’s work.


Is there a genre you haven't written, but would love to tackle in the future?

Maybe a Christian themed work.


What's planned next for your writing career?

I have three works of fiction I want to get out there, all in different stages of the writing process. I have completed a young adult, multicultural work. I am working to get that published. Another novel I have, more somber, more mature in nature, is about halfway completed. But my favorite work is the next book to The Obsessive-Compulsive series. I’m five chapters into it, and in mind it is all but completed.


Do you work well with deadlines?

I don’t have the pressure of too many deadlines, but I do work well with them. Helps me pace myself.


When did you first start writing?

Since I knew I could! I remember writing a story for my brothers when I was five. It was a picture book and had a plot and tragic ending. I took creative writing electives in high school, and in college, writing was my minor. I have been writing professionally for two years now.


What influenced you to submit your work for publication?

I had an idea for a story, typed it up in a matter of five months, and was ready to share it with the world. Well, the world wasn’t ready for the story, and in all honesty, the story isn’t ready of the world, but of course I couldn’t understand that at the time while receiving negative feedback. I then shifted my focus to writing online, fun little pieces for hungry (and highly encouraging) readers who didn’t mind passive voice dependency and comma abuse. That is how Erika and the OCD stories first began. The readers loved my work, and it caught the eye of the editor for Stonehedge Publishing. That opened the door to other places, and the rest is still evolving.


Do you belong to a critique group? If so-how does this help you? If not-would you ever consider joining one-if not- why do you think you work better alone?

I belonged to two critique groups at one time. They really were eye openers to my writing. Sometimes you think “this is the best thing I’ve ever written”…and then you have someone look it over, slice and splice it. Critique groups are not for the weak-hearted.


What is the best way for readers to contact you?

They can visit my site - I have my contact info there - or reach me through my blog. I’m flexible.


Any advice you want to give to aspiring writers?

Never give up. I never thought I’d be at this end of the writing spectrum, and there is still so much to do. I like writing; it’s as simple as that. Even if I wasn’t published, I would still continue to write. One way or another, my handiwork would be evident to others.


Anything you wish to add?

Just want to thank the people who encourage and strengthen me. Huge thanks to my readers, and though I know some of them, I’d like to know them all. J