Tell us about yourself.:
I'm Michelle M. Pillow, a NY Times and USA TODAY bestselling author with over a million books sold. I write across various genres but am best known for my romance and mystery novels. My fascination with the supernatural and the paranormal has always been a driving force in my writing.

Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?:
I grew up in the Midwest, where the blend of urban life and natural beauty often inspired my storytelling. The region's rich history and diverse culture provided a fertile ground for my imagination, fueling my interest in creating intricate, magical worlds.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I often write late into the night when the world is quiet. My writing setup changes depending on my mood and the stage of the writing process. I use a combination of notebooks, Post-it notes, and digital tools to keep track of ideas and plot points. You’ll often find me writing at my kitchen table or sitting up in bed with the TV on in the background.

What authors have influenced you?
I grew up in the Midwest, where the blend of urban life and natural beauty often inspired my storytelling. The region's rich history and diverse culture provided a fertile ground for my imagination, fueling my interest in creating intricate, magical worlds.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write consistently and don’t give up. The journey of writing and publishing can be challenging, but persistence and passion are essential. Don’t be afraid to revise and improve your work. Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in your vision, and always stay true to your unique voice and stories.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?
The best advice I’ve ever received is to trust the process and believe in your unique voice. Writing is a journey, and it's important to embrace both the challenges and triumphs along the way. Persistence and passion are key.

What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading a mix of genres, including some literary fiction and women's fiction, as well as work by author friends. I believe that reading widely helps to broaden my perspective and inspire new ideas. I'm about to dive into Prince with a Chance of Darkness by Mandy M. Roth. I love her Grimm Cove series.

What’s your biggest weakness?
My biggest weakness is probably my tendency to overthink things. I want my stories to be perfect, and sometimes that can slow me down. But I’ve learned to embrace the process and trust my instincts.

What is your favorite book of all time?
That’s a tough question! One of my all-time favorites is Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. The wit, the romance, and the social commentary have always resonated with me.

When you’re not writing, how do you like to spend your time?
When I’m not writing, I love spending time with my family and pets. I also enjoy watching my favorite TV shows or movies, reading books, and exploring new places. These activities help me relax and recharge my creative energy.

Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
The first story I remember that had an effect on me creatively was Edgar Allen Poe's The Tell-Tale Heart.

What has inspired you and your writing style?
Authors like J.R.R. Tolkien and Anne Rice have inspired me to blend romance, fantasy, and supernatural elements seamlessly. Their ability to create expansive, immersive worlds and complex characters has profoundly influenced my writing style. I also draw inspiration from personal experiences, travels, and observations of the world around me.

What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on the next book in the series following my newly released Urban Fantasy book Merely Mortal, titled Mostly Shattered. It continues the journey of the heroine Tamara and delves deeper into the supernatural world she navigates.

What is your favorite method for promoting your work?
I love engaging with readers through social media and my newsletter. It’s a great way to share updates, behind-the-scenes insights, and connect with my audience on a more personal level.

What’s next for you as a writer?
Next, I’m looking forward to expanding the series that began with Merely Mortal. I have several exciting projects in the pipeline, including more stories set in the same universe and exploring new genres and themes.

How well do you work under pressure?
I tend to thrive under pressure. Deadlines can be motivating, pushing me to focus and be productive. While it can be stressful at times, I’ve learned to manage it and use it to my advantage.

How do you decide what tone to use with a particular piece of writing?
The tone of my writing is usually determined by the story and characters. I try to immerse myself in the world I’m creating and let the tone naturally evolve from the narrative and the emotions of the characters. Whether it’s light-hearted and humorous or dark and intense, the tone must align with the story’s essence.

If you could share one thing with your fans, what would that be?
I want to thank my fans for their incredible support and enthusiasm. Your love for my characters and stories means the world to me. Books are a journey we take together, and I’m grateful for each and every one of you who joins me on this adventure. Keep believing in the magic of storytelling and never stop dreaming.

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