Tell us about yourself.:
Dina Rae: I am an author who just came out with a new novel, Peacocks, Pedestals, and Prayers. I have written eight books total, a couple of shorts, and hundreds of blog posts.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?:
I grew up all over Chicagoland. My family moved a great deal. The Midwest has a major influence on my writing. My latest novel is set in Wheaton, Illinois, a Chicago suburb.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I will write anywhere and at any time. I especially like to write in a notebook. Then I type up the notebook pages. The handwritten draft seems to help the story flow for me.
What authors have influenced you?
I grew up all over Chicagoland. My family moved a great deal. The Midwest has a major influence on my writing. My latest novel is set in Wheaton, Illinois, a Chicago suburb.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I am guilty of finishing a story and then wanting to submit it for publication. I have learned that my best work happens in the editing process BEFORE querying it to agents and publishers. The best thing to do is walk away from the book after you are finished with it for a good week or two. Start the editing process with fresh eyes. Keep notes on your characters, setting, etc. so that you can keep your story straight.
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
On Writing by Stephen King is an excellent resource. The best advice I've ever received from people who I know is simple-keep going.
What are you reading now?
I am reading two books, Moll Dyer #2 by Dave Thompson and The Eight by Katherine Neville.
What’s your biggest weakness?
Elaboration. I could slow down the plot and be more descriptive. I try to use various literary devices, but could always use more.
What is your favorite book of all time?
That's a hard question-The Stand, Swan Song, Angels and Demons, Oryx and Crake, 1984, and Brave New World are some of my favorites, but there are so many more.
When you’re not writing, how do you like to spend your time?
I am involved in church, family, tennis, and my dogs. I also love to travel, but with the way of the world, that's not been happening.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
No. But the first novel I fell in love with was Flowers in the Attic by V.C. Andrews. I must have been in 4th or 5th grade. I loved that series.
What has inspired you and your writing style?
I really love books with research. Dan Brown and Katherine Neville are especially good at incorporating history into their works. I try to do the same. I love finishing up a book that entertains and teaches me something.
What are you working on now?
Right now, I am not working on another project, just promoting my newly published novel, Peacocks, Pedestals, and Prayers.
What is your favorite method for promoting your work?
Guesting on awesome blogs like yours! I also love posting articles on the research used for the book on my blog, guesting on talk radio, signing up for book tours, and scheduling book signings.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I would love to write a romance or mystery, two genres I have yet to try.
How well do you work under pressure?
I get snappy at the people I love the most, but also get in the "zone" and really focus on performance or finishing a task.
How do you decide what tone to use with a particular piece of writing?
I have an edge. My latest novel is horror. My tone is dark, but that's to be expected for horror.
If you could share one thing with your fans, what would that be?
My favorite show is Ancient Aliens!
Dina Rae’s Author Websites and Profiles
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