Exploring The Creative Journey Of A Multifaceted Author
Jessica Terry discusses her lifelong love for writing, her creative process, challenges as an indie author, and upcoming projects, including a romcom novella and a women’s fiction novel.
Jessica Terry’s passion for storytelling is as vibrant and enduring as the Georgia sun under which she was raised. A true creative at heart, she has spent countless hours immersed in the world of words, crafting stories that resonate with readers. With a diverse background that spans sport management, neuromuscular therapy, and communications, Jessica’s journey is as multifaceted as her writing. Yet, it is her novels, copywriting, and ghostwriting projects that truly capture her essence. Now, as she continues to build her literary career, Jessica remains a proud Georgia native, weaving tales that reflect her love for storytelling and her unwavering dedication to her craft.
In this exclusive interview for Reader’s House Magazine, Jessica opens up about her inspirations, her writing process, and the challenges she’s faced as an indie author. She shares insights into her favourite characters, offers advice for aspiring writers, and teases her upcoming projects, including a romantic novella and a women’s fiction novel. Join us as we delve into the mind of an author whose creativity knows no bounds.
What inspired you to start writing, and how did you decide on the genres you write in?
– I’ve been writing for as long as I remember, so it’s hard to pinpoint what inspired it. Being creative has always been my thing. As far as genres, not a lot of thought went into it; I wrote what I loved to read. Still do.
Can you share your writing process? Do you follow a strict routine or write whenever inspiration strikes?
– My writing process is pretty straightforward, really; it’s idea, jot down some notes (if I can’t jump right into it), work on the outline, then write the first draft. I don’t have a strict routine though I do try to be pretty consistent; I’m almost always either plotting, drafting, or editing something, oftentimes having multiple projects going at once. I do have a 9-5 that takes a lot of mental energy so if I need a break from the writing, I take it. I’ve experienced burnout and it’s not fun. One benefit of being indie is that I’m under no one’s deadlines but my own.
Which of your books or characters is your personal favorite, and why?
– I always have such difficulty with this question. LOL As of right now, my favorite book in my catalogue is The Stubborn Kind. The layers in the book, regarding the characters and the storyline, were among my favorite to write, and I still enjoy reading back through it on occasion. E.J. is the kind of man I wish I could write into creation. LOL
What challenges have you faced as an author, and how have you overcome them?
– Increasing my readership has definitely been the biggest challenge. I’ve been publishing since 2008 and still feel like I’m fighting an uphill battle when it comes to getting readers, namely ones who review and spread the word about my books. Having a tribe of loyal readers is a dream I’m still working towards. But I’m extremely proud of and confident in my books and know my time will come. *smile*
Do you have any advice for aspiring writers who want to publish their own books?
– Do it.
Are there any upcoming projects or books you’re currently working on that you’d like to share with your readers?
– Next for me is Hooked on Valentine’s, a fake dating romcom novella, as part of Cupid’s Countdown; myself and 13 other authors are releasing new romances featuring Black love every day starting February 1st up until Valentine’s Day. My next full-length release, Forced, is a women’s fiction novel that I’m planning to release sometime in March 2025.
