Fighting Prose Interview with Dana L. Brown

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.

Dana L. Brown

is my interview this week!

How long have you been writing?

About most of my life but I started writing seriously in 2016.

If you’ve written several books, which is your favorite?

I have to go with the first, Lottie Loser. It was the beginning of my dream come true, plus I like to say that Charlotte is me with upgrades.

What's your favorite genre to read? Write?

When it comes to reading my tastes change from time to time, but I love a series, whether it’s romance, mystery, or suspense.
As for writing, romance, romcom and Women’s Fiction are what I love.

How do you get in the mood to write?

I don’t have an impressive answer for that! Sometimes I have ideas in my head and can’t wait to get them down, and sometimes I have to open my laptop and make myself write. Ultimately though, if I’m truly not feeling it, I do something else and wait until the time feels right.

How do your characters come together?

For two years before I writing Lottie Loser I formed the story line in my head. I knew Charlotte and Nick as well as my own kids, but the more I wrote, the more they spoke to me. For instance, I didn’t intent to write a series, but the characters kept telling me they had more to say.

How do you get your ideas?

From the books that I’ve read over the years. Reading is my favorite thing in the world to do.

Who do you admire in the writing world?

That’s really hard. I guess Nora Roberts because she’s been so prolific, and continues to craft wonderful stories.

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

Reading of course, spending time with family and friends, holding speaking engagements and book events. My life is pretty simple, and I’m thankful for that.

Have you always been creative?

I’ve been writing some since junior high, but I also love to cook, and especially to bake. I’ve incorporated some of my favorite foods to make into The AMI Series.

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

There was a period after I wrote The Greysons that I had no interest in writing. I had no inspiration, and didn’t open my computer for months. But one day I looked at the beginning of a book I had started the year before, and decided to work on it. I’ve never published that book, but someday I will. It gave me back the love of putting my imagination into words.

When you sit down to write, is it easy or hard? If it's hard, what makes you keep showing up?

It depends on the day. Some days I have to force myself to write a chapter, and then as the day goes on I think of ways to make it better. Some days I wake up with ideas and can’t wait to get started.

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

Never, ever give up! Don’t think you’re too old or too young, because none of that matters. Write for yourself, and don’t plan on becoming rich and famous. If that happens, kudos to you, but know in your heart why you’re writing.

What is your dream writing location?

Somewhere on a beach, but definitely on the water! Even though I live in the north my heart is where there’s sun and sand.

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

Have I ever had a Nick Greyson in my life, or is my husband Nick? The answer to both is no.

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

Nick. Who wouldn’t want a 6’5” gorgeous FBI agent, who’s also a really good man, in their life?!

What do you think makes a good story?

Characters that are real and relatable, with strong relationships. A story line that makes it hard to put the book down, and enough conflict to make you have to know the resolution.