Heather Blake ~ About the Author 2.0

I have read all of Heather Blake’s Wishcraft Series. Well, except the newest book To Catch A Witch. Heather Blake is an awesome writer, who always manages to surprise me by sliding in the unexpected. I love the characters she has created. Oh, and the magical town or Enchanted Village is brillant.

I had the opportunity to interview Heather Blake back in 2015. I am so thankful that she was willing to return and answer so more questions. Now…

My interview with Heather Blake

Personal

Tell us a little about yourself? Perhaps something not many people know?

Quite honestly, I lead a rather quiet life. I’m a homebody who loves to bake (and eat) cookies, drink coffee and tea (and am trying to give up Dr. Pepper for approximately the thousandth time), and watch cooking shows. I love hanging out with my family, like to hike, adore nature (except most bugs), and will eat most any ice cream except Dippin’ Dots. I get cranky if I don’t get enough sleep, but too much sleep is a migraine trigger. Life’s all about balance, right?

What made you want to become a writer?

I tell this story a lot, but what prompted me to start writing was a dream. Literally. I woke up one morning with the *best* story in my head and told my husband it would make a great movie. Then, I quickly changed my mind. It had to be a book, with all its plot twists and details. My husband took one look at me and told me I should write that book. I was twenty-five years old and had three little ones at home. I didn’t have any writing experience. All I had was that dream and all the support I could ever ask for. I wrote the book—it now lives in a binder in my office. It will likely never be published, but that’s okay. It’s what started me on this publishing journey, and will forever be one of my favorite books.

What book that you have read most influenced your life?

There are so many, but one that stands out is Hound of the Baskervilles, which, at the time, was a 10th-grade reading assignment. It’s the book that made me fall in love with the mystery genre.

What is the first book that made you cry?

I’m laughing as I read this because there’s no way to know. I’m a sap. I cry at practically everything.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

Oh, gosh. There are so many possibilities. I’d absolutely love to be able to teleport. It would be amazing to be in another location in an instant.

Where is one place you want to visit that you haven’t been before (real or imaginary)?

There are a lot of places I’d love to visit—one of these days I hope to get to Hawaii. And Scotland. And France. And most of the US. Lol. Clearly, I need to book some vacations… As for imaginary locations, I’d love to spend a day in the Hundred Acre Wood.

Writing Style

What do you love most about writing?

I’m so grateful for the ability to craft my stories. I don’t know where the creativity comes from, but I’m very glad it’s there. And am also thankful I can work anywhere—truly something I don’t take for granted.

Do you like music or silence?

I usually have music on in the background while I write, turned down really low, so it’s more like white noise.

Do you have goals of certain # of words a week or when inspiration strikes?

I’ve tried so many times to do word goals, and my brain just doesn’t like to cooperate. For the first half of the book, I tend to write in fits and starts until the story starts to come together, then the last half the words tend to flow.

Do your characters seem to hijack the story or do you feel like you have the reins of the story?

It’s a little bit of both, actually. I have the reins, but I let the characters lead the way for the most part.

What is your writing Kryptonite?

The internet. I’ve started writing on a laptop that doesn’t have an internet connection (it’s broken), and it’s been a wonderful change. I’m so much more productive.

How important are character names to you in your books? Do you choose the names based on liking the way it sounds or the meaning?

It depends on the characters. Some, I simply like. Others, I choose for meaning. For example, in the Wishcraft series, Deryn is a Welsh name meaning bird, which ties to the story.

Book/Series

What is your favorite part of the Wishcraft Mystery Series?

Hands down, the characters. I’d like to know all the people (and familiars) in these books. Well, except the murderers. And Dorothy. She’s scary.

Is anything in your series based on real-life experiences or purely all imagination?

Most of it is imagination, but once in a while personal experiences slip in. For example, in To Catch a Witch, I was able to use years and years of being a spectator at cross-country and road races to add details to those scenes.

What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write for To Catch a Witch and why?

Hard question! I love the scenes that feature the familiars, like the one where Archie and Ve are nursing hangovers. I also adore the scenes where Darcy is just living life, like when she’s making dinner – even if she’s talking about murder while doing it.

How did you come up with the title?

All the Wish titles are inspired by movie titles. The inspiration for this one was To Catch a Thief.

If you could spend time with a character from one of your Series whom would it be? And what would you do during that day?

Another tough question. It would probably be Evan—and I really hope I’d be eating lots of desserts.

What project are you working on now?

I’ve just finished the 9^th Wish book, which should be out next spring, and am currently working on a women’s fiction magical realism novel.

Do you have any other books coming out this year?

This year? Maybe. I might have a self-published story coming out if I ever finish it (lol). Next year, I currently have two: the 9^th Wish book, A Witch to Remember, and my first foray into women’s fiction: Midnight at the Blackbird Café, which will debut next summer (written as Heather Webber).

Thanks for all the great questions, Karen, and for featuring me on your blog. I appreciate it! ~Heather Blake

If you would like to check out more about Heather Blake, you can do so here:

Her Website Twitter Facebook Pinterest Instagram Goodreads Amazon

Heather Blake has other series that I haven’t had the pleasure of reading yet. She also writes under Heather Webber.

The Wishcraft Mystery Series

Check out my previous reviews:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The newest book is now available:

To Catch a Witch

Released: August 7th, 2018

Goodreads Amazon Book Depository

Wishcrafter Darcy Merriweather might be a witch with the ability to grant wishes for others, but wishing isn’t going to help her catch a killer…

When wishcrafter Darcy Merriweather’s personal concierge company is hired by elite runner Abby Stillwell to organize the Wicked Mad Dash, a competition that takes place in the Enchanted Village, Darcy is more than willing to help her friend. As blizzard conditions rage on the morning of the race, Darcy’s main concern is the terrible weather―until Abby goes missing…and is later found dead, buried in the snow.

As Darcy investigates her friend’s untimely death, she learns that she didn’t really know Abby well at all. And those closest to the woman―her secret fiancé, her roommate, her ex-boyfriend, and her co-workers at Balefire Sports―seem to have plenty to hide too. As Darcy digs deeper, she uncovers complicated relationships, a possible embezzlement scheme, and allegations of cheating against a top athlete.

Just when Darcy is convinced she’s hit a dead end in the case, a startling burglary and the hunt for Abby’s elusive ex send Darcy down a dark, dangerous trail. It will take the help from friends, family, and a little bit of magic for Darcy to stop a stone-cold killer from striking again.

I plan to read and review this book in December. Blizzard conditions are perfect for sitting by the window, watching the snow fall and drinking hot chocolate. So, look for my review in December.

I also have a Giveaway going for this book so check that out too. (insert a button with the link to the giveaway)

If you have some time you should take a look at Heather Blake’s books as she is still one of my favorite authors and her Wishcraft Mystery Series with Darcy Merriweather won’t disappoint.

I would like to thank Heather Blake again for taking the time to answer some questions for us. I truly appreciate your time.

Until the next time. Happy Reading!

 

 

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