Fighting Prose Interview with Briana Morgan

Welcome to my in-depth writers series Fighting Prose. Where I talk to authors in the industry on what their process is like and what it takes for them to keep on creating, through all the odds. This week I’m interviewing Briana Morgan who edits, coaches writers & writes fantasy and horror.

How long have you been writing?

For as long as I can remember, but I published my debut in 2015.

Of the books you’ve written, which is your favorite?

The one I'm finishing up right now, but barring that, REFLECTIONS.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Write?

Horror for both! I LOVE spooky things. I used to write just fantasy, but now I'm pursuing horror primarily.

Tell me about your process: how do you get in the mood to write? How do your characters come together? How do you get your ideas?

Music puts me in the mood to write. I make a playlist for every new WIP. I'm not sure where my ideas come from, except to say they come from everywhere. Characters... I learn more about the characters through each draft I write. I'd like to say I'm the kind of writer who fills out detailed character profiles for everyone, but that just isn't me.

What do you admire the most about the writing world?

Stephen King

If you're not busy writing, what are you busy doing?

Editing for clients, snuggling with my cats, reading, or spending time with my partner.

Have you ever had writers block? If so, how did you get out of it?

For me, writer's block happens when I don't know where I'm going, or when I'm trying to force something that won't work. The key to getting out of that block is outlining.

For a writer starting out what advice would you give them?

Don't let anyone else tell you how to be a writer. If your process works for you, don't listen to anyone else.

Have you always been creative?

I think I've always been creative in some way. Before I wrote, I drew, but gradually the writing took over. Same with theater. Now I can't draw much of anything. I'm still passionate about acting and watching plays, though.

What is your dream writing location?

The beach, or by a lake. Anywhere near water.

In reference to your books, what question do you get asked the most?

Who does my covers! That would be the talented Johannus Steger. His work is phenomenal.

If you could bring one of your characters to life who would it be? Why?

It would be Rama, the MC of REFLECTIONS. She is tough as hell and super inspiring to me. I think I could learn a lot from her, even though she's younger than me.