I thoroughly enjoy featuring fiction authors on my website, but today’s post is an interview with someone close to my heart—Denise Barela. She is an amazing author, editor, and on-fire Christian woman. She’s also my virtual assistant and daughter of my publisher. So, this is a special blessing for me, and I pray it will be for you, as well. Don’t forget to sign up at the end for a chance to win the ebook copy of her novel, Silencing the Siren.
Welcome, Denise. I’m thrilled you’re with us today. You’re quite a bit younger than any of the authors I’ve featured so far. Can you tell us how long you’ve been writing?
Believe it or not, I’ve been writing since I was eleven. I started out writing fan fiction about my adventures at Hogwarts. I was so sad when my letter never came (even though deep down I knew it wouldn’t), so I decided to write about myself in the world of Harry Potter.
I do believe it, since I’ve been writing since I was around that age, too. Although, the years between then and now is much longer in my case. What advice would you give a new writer or someone who aspires to be a writer?
Never give up. It can be so daunting sometimes to try and write, but just keep at it. When I hit those slumps, I tend to enjoy writing short stories that are meant for no one but myself. It’s a great way to get yourself out of a writing block.
Great advice! I’ve never heard that technique used before, but it not only makes sense, it could also lead to a new story idea. What would you say your most interesting writing quirk is?
I use music to help change my mood for what I’m writing. When I need to write a sad scene, I have a good list of sad songs I play on repeat. When I need to write an emotionally intense scene, my rock music playlist provides just what I need. I can’t write without some kind of noise. I prefer music, but I’m not opposed to ambiance YouTube channels either!
Hmm. I don’t know if I’d call that a quirk. It sounds like a creative technique to put you in the right (or should I say write?) frame of mind to create a scene. What do you feel is the definition of success?
If my books help at least one person, I would consider that a success. That’s more than I could ever ask for, and each additional person it reaches is a blessing to me. My desire is to help others and glorify God through my writing.
Tell us a little about your first published book?
This book was both fun and difficult to write. I loved getting to know these characters as I wrote their story and seeing how their relationship would develop. The difficult part was all the research I had to do for this book. I didn’t realize how hard it would be to 
find information on New York in the 1920s. I wanted it to be as accurate as possible, so I hope that came through.
Knowing your professionalism and attention to detail, I have no doubt it did! What is the key theme or message in it?
The key message of this book is to not judge people based on their appearance. I’ve been on the receiving end of this many times as my normal style falls within the rock/goth category. This also seems to garner at least a couple of dirty looks as I’m out and about. Most of the time I just brush it off, but sometimes it does hurt. None of those people know me, but they so easily cast judgement on who they think I must be based on the way I dress. I just wanted to bring it to attention in hopes that it makes people think twice before casting judgement.
We all need to receive that message, don’t we? I feel that someone as mature as you (both spiritually and academically), along with your unique style, has greater access to those who are in need of salvation. No one in the rock/goth category would pay attention to anything I have to say. I applaud you for being uniquely you and not caving to the prejudice of others. And sadly, Christians can be the most judgmental of all.
It has been such a pleasure featuring you today, Denise.
Comments 1
I have always loved Denise’s energy and flare. She’s nice and very knowledgeable. I’m glad her 1st book is out.