Interview with Maria Savva

Maria Savva

Interview Date: 6/17/2012

Biography

Maria Savva was born in North London, UK in 1970. She studied Law at Middlesex University and The College of Law. She worked as a lawyer for 15 years. She has always loved creative writing and began writing her first novel in 1997 when she was 'in-between jobs'. She is a resident author on the indie writer forum Bestsellerbound.com and also writes reviews for Bookpleasures.com Published works: 'Coincidences' 2001,'A Time to Tell' 2006, 'Pieces of a Rainbow' 2009,'Love and Loyalty (and Other Tales)' 2010, 'Second Chances'2010, 'Cutting The Fat' 2011(co-author Jason McIntyre),'Fusion' 2011, 'The Dream' 2011, 'Coincidences' 2nd Edition - 2012 - Maria also has short stories featured in The BestsellerBound Short Story Anthologies. She is currently working on her fifth novel, a crime fiction story.


When did you start writing, and was there a significant event that prompted you to do so?

When I was about four years old, a teacher put a pen in my hand and told me to write on a page... I remember it quite clearly, because apparently I was doing it wrong and was chastised for it... I have continued to do it wrong ever since according to the large publishing houses, but I like to annoy them...


If you could have one superpower, what would it be? (Assuming said power would be reasonably "powerful.")

To read minds, that would be super and fun.


Do you have a favorite superhero from novels, comics, or movies?

Superman. I used to love the series on TV as well as the films. I, of course, liked the romantic aspect of that story as much as the superpower stuff.

Kev's response: Oh, sure, take a perfectly good superhero action flick, and you bring up romance. *shakes head* ;P


Where do you get your inspiration for writing?

I have no idea. All I know is that a great deal of my own experiences and the experiences of people I know or have known--whether for a few fleeting moments or for years--will often find their way into my writing. So, I guess I am inspired by life.


What motivates you?

The need to get these stories out of my head and onto paper. Writing is my way of expressing myself. It's a necessary function and without it I couldn't function. I am not motivated by any outside source, I have an innate need to write.

Kev's response: Same here, although I mine is more of a need to create, and writing is the particular outlet I'm using.


Do you pre-plan your stories, or are you a by-the-seat-of-the-pants style writer?

A mixture of the two. I plan the outline of a story, and then the characters take over and before I know it my plan goes out the window and I never know how my story/novel will end. But that's part of the fun for me.


Do you write only when inspired, or do you have a set schedule where you sit down to write?

I am constantly being inspired and constantly writing.


Do you have a favorite genre to write in?

No. I like experimenting with with my writing. I have written romantic stories, ghost stories, fantasy, humourous stories, and even sci-fi. I'm a storyteller. I don't write to a set genre and I never will. Life is not one genre, life is a mixture of the good, the bad and the ugly. My writing contains bits of everything.

Kev's response: Nice! :)


To read?

I read everything.

Kev's response: Cookbooks? Manuals?


What do you enjoy the most about writing?

The relief I feel when a story is finished. But also, I enjoy the writing/creative process itself, everything about it.


Is there any part of writing that you don't enjoy?

As a self-published author I do my own editing and that's the worst part, just the constant frustration at finding yet another typo when I have read the blasted thing at least 20 times... Editing, I hate editing...

Kev's response: Yeah, sometimes I hate having the ability to read "words" rather than "groupings of letters." It's far too easy to overlook something over and over.


Can you tell me something odd about yourself?

The first person who can name something about me that isn't odd wins a prize...


Do you write one story at a time, or do you have several novels in the works at one time?

I usually write one novel at a time, but I can write numerous short stories while I'm writing a novel.

Kev's response: Ugh! *holds up holy symbol of single-story-at-a-time creation*


Are you for, or against, evil plots to take over the world? (Not saying I'm doing that, but thought I'd ask, just in case....)

I am all for them as long as there is a super hero available to put paid to the evil-doers' efforts... It makes for good movies...

Kev's response: Oh, sure, egg someone on just to turn around and sic superheroes on them!


Where do you see the future as far as paper books versus digital e-books?

Well, I was a die-hard paperback lover and now I love my Kindle, so I think that the end of the book as we know it is nigh, sadly. They will probably go the same way as vinyl records... still collectible but not very common.


What are your current projects?

I am working on a dark thriller. It's conceptual. Paranormal-esque, but more of a psychological thriller. That's all I can say for now. It's called Haunted and will hopefully be released towards the end of the year. I am also putting together another collection of short stories, some are new, some have been published in other anthologies and some are very old. I found some of them on a floppy disk, they date back about 13 years...

Kev's response: Mmmm, floppy disks. I have quite a few of those lurking about my basement! Not sure I even have a computer with a 3.5" drive any more.


Do you have any advice for others about self-publishing?

Write the story that you want to read. Write from the heart. Don't write what you think will sell. Let's face it, nothing sells unless your name is Lady Gaga or JK Rowling. If you're in this to get rich, get out. Make sure that you have a finely tuned piece of work before you unleash it to the public... the trolls are unforgiving and each typo will be used against you in a court of law... The best advice though is, if you want to write that book, do it, and don't let anyone stop you, just be realistic in your aims (keep the day job). Another great tip is mingle with your fellow indie authors, they are a great, supportive bunch and will stop you from losing your mind completely. Yes, it is that bad... Writing and then actually publishing it as an indie author is not for the feint hearted; what we as writers are basically doing by writing a book that is dear to our heart, is baring our soul to people who will tear it apart without a moment's thought. Grow a thick skin and you'll survive.


Do you have any online sites where readers can find out more about you (and your books)?

My website is: http://www.mariasavva.com

Kev's response: Maria, thanks for joining me! Good fortune on Haunted (and the likely short stories that will ensue during its creation...)!



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