Ride the Tides with Michelle S. Lowe
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This author can’t wait to meet Michelle in person! Her answers to my interview questions are interesting and insightful. Come and see for yourself… :)
Do you have a favorite Bible story? Tell us what about that story captivates you?
I do have a favorite Bible story! I love the story in Luke, verses 40-43, of the three men on the cross. I love the tender dialogue when the third man rebukes the other for mocking Jesus. Jesus’s response is precious to me and something I could read over and over again!
What inspires your writing most (i.e., your life experiences, nature, something you’ve read, etc.)?
My mom was my biggest inspiration and my biggest fan. She struggled with Multiple
Sclerosis for many years and passed away when my son was only four. I started
writing before she died, and she always wanted to hear about my work. One of the last
things she bought for me was a small tape recorder so I could record story ideas. I miss her so much, and every book I write is written in her memory.
Do you have the plot firmly fixed in your mind before you start writing or do you let the characters speak to you, or some of both?
I do usually have the plot of my story all figured out before I begin the writing process!I often think of a story while I’m in the shower, doing housework, driving, etc. I have notebooks all over the house, and I jot down ideas, and usually have an entire outline before I actually begin writing my stories.
Who is your favorite author and why?
My favorite author is Victoria Holt. Her books combined historical fiction and romance with a little bit of mystery. I have all of my mom’s hardback Victoria Holt books and I treasure these. The covers are beautiful, and I often find extra copies at thrift stores. I even found a rare copy recently, and I paid less than a dollar for this beautiful book that I have on my bookshelf!! My favorite Victoria Holt book is THE BLACK OPAL.
How has your favorite author influenced your writing?
I think Victoria Holt wrote so elegantly. She was very skilled at creating conflict which keeps you guessing until the very last page! And the historical imagery in her books is just lovely. I hope I can create half the enjoyment with my stories as Victoria Holt has for me!
Do you notice one particular theme in your books? If yes, what is it?
Yes, there’s always a dog!
Are you easily distracted when you’re writing? If yes, what do you do about it?
I have been especially distracted lately. My son is applying to college, and we have really been busy with all that’s required for this. Sometimes, if I’ve stopped to help him with paperwork, etc., I take a walk down our driveway to get the creative juices flowing again!
What’s your favorite time and place to write? Do you listen to music or prefer complete silence?
I have to have mostly silence when I write, although I love music any other time! I usually write at the kitchen table- and a warm cup of coffee by my computer is a must!
If you could change something about one of the books you’ve written, what would it be and why?
I know I could have written my books better- but it’s been a growing process. I’ve
learned a lot with each book that’s been published. And I really learned a great deal
from my previous editor. But to be honest, I wouldn’t change a thing about any of my stories. I felt so blessed each time a book was released, and I always wrote them with someone special in mind, who I’d dedicate the story to, etc. I do look forward to improving as I continue to write.
What one thing would you like readers to know about you?
I had seven books published by a small publisher, Anaiah Press. My first manuscript was turned down, however I received an email later the same day (after the rejection email) from my editor, saying she really liked my story, but that essentially my writing needed some work. I laugh a lot about that today! ‘My writing needed some work’ was kind of an understatement!! I’m a better story teller than a writer, and I am a nurse by trade. This kind editor, nonetheless, took the time to send me another email describing point of view, headhopping, etc. I rewrote the story, and the manuscript for my first book, THE MARITIME CURE, was accepted about two months later! This was during the COVID era.
Anaiah Press went out of business after hurricane Helene, and I and the other authors were devastated. I miss working with that favorite editor. But I am working with a new publisher now to get my books back on Amazon– it’s just a slow process. The books have to be reformatted, with new cover art, etc. But I do know one thing for sure; that everything works towards a purpose and in God’s perfect timing! I hold to that thought.
Thank you so much for taking time to read my answers. Happy reading, and thank you for supporting authors!! Love in Christ, Michelle S. Lowe.
Michelle S. Lowe lives in Asheboro, North Carolina with her husband of twenty-four years, Brian, and their son, Jake. The family has a new red heeler puppy named Amy as well. Michelle is a Registered Nurse and she teaches CNA classes at a local nursing facility. She also enjoys cooking, spending time with her family, and searching for Native American arrowheads on her property. She especially enjoys writing in memory of her mom, who like so many moms, was always her biggest fan.
Social Media Links:
https://www.facebook.com/MichelleSLoweAuthor/
https://www.instagram.com/authormlowe/
Jess Simmons isn’t above telling a few white lies to land the job of her dreams. If life has taught her anything, it’s that nothing lasts forever anyway. Surrounded by the peaceful scenery of Holden Beach, North Carolina, and the grace of her Christian coworkers, Jess begins to question not only her faith, but also the weight of her most recent deception.
Her plans to resign quietly are thwarted when she wins a coveted design contest and develops feelings for graphic artist Luke Baker. Now, she has no choice but to own up to the truth, but will doing so cost her everything? Or will coming clean lead her to the saving grace she longs for?
Thank you, Michelle, for your time and willingness to share your heart with my readers. God bless you as you continue to write for Him!
Erma M. Ullrey