How Real-Life Inspiration Shapes Extraordinary Characters And Captivating Stories
Deborah J. “DJ” Martin discusses her writing process, blending genres, creating relatable characters, and offering advice to aspiring writers while sharing insights into her personal growth and upcoming projects.
Deborah J. “DJ” Martin is a storyteller who weaves magic into every page she writes. A semi-retired accountant turned Master Herbalist, author, and witch, DJ has carved out a unique space in the literary world, blending fantasy, mystery, and romance into tales that captivate and inspire. Her works, including the compelling “Herself” series, are a testament to her ability to create strong, relatable characters who navigate extraordinary circumstances with courage and authenticity. DJ’s stories are not just entertaining—they are journeys of self-discovery, resilience, and growth, resonating deeply with readers who find pieces of themselves in her characters’ struggles and triumphs.
In this interview, DJ shares her insights into the art of storytelling, her creative process, and the life experiences that shape her work. From crafting believable characters to offering advice for aspiring writers, she provides a glimpse into the mind of an author who is as passionate about her craft as she is about the natural world around her. Join us as we delve into the world of Deborah J. “DJ” Martin, a writer whose imagination knows no bounds.
Your books often blend elements of fantasy, mystery, and romance. What draws you to these genres, and how do you balance them in your storytelling?
I love reading fantasy – it’s escapism; I like solving problems so yes, mystery; and romance is a “depends” when I’m reading. Blending at least the first two together seems like a no-brainer when I’m writing. I’m not a fan of romance (especially the spicy type) but if it fits the storyline, it would be foolish to leave out an important element of the tale. Romance is present in some of my writing but it’s not the main focus, and is never spicy.
In “Reclaiming Herself,” the characters face both supernatural and emotional challenges. How do you approach building characters who feel real despite being in extraordinary situations?
I like strong female protagonists in any genre I read and as such, write them, too. I write in the first person so it’s easy to imagine myself in any given situation, and the characters (mostly) react the way I would.
When the character isn’t the main protagonist, I draw upon the personalities of people I know and imagine their response to whatever might affect them. Most of my secondary characters are based on friends, acquaintances, even business associates.
By basing my characters on real people, that lends believability to their personalities.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers about finding their unique voice and exploring different storytelling styles?
Read. As much as you can, in multiple genres. See how other authors approach various subjects and situations, then think about how you’d develop that story or character.
Then experiment. Take a situation from a favorite book and write a short story based on it. Is it still believable? Does it tell the same story but in a different way? For example, if you like epic fantasy, rather than just rewriting Frodo’s trip to Rivendell (Tolkien wrote in the third person), tell the story in first person from Samwise’s perspective. You need to get into the habit of using your own imagination when writing.
Finally, start writing your own stories and have someone (who will be honest with you) critique them. Only by having someone else tell you what works and what doesn’t can you develop your own voice and style. This can be painful but if you’re serious about becoming a writer, you need to listen outside voices, not just your own.
Your stories often deal with themes of self-discovery and personal growth. How do these themes reflect your own life experiences, and how do you hope readers will connect with them?
To my way of thinking, everyone changes and grows over the course of their life – or should. We all have life-changing events that, in theory, alter the way we live and think.
My characters are no different. They all experience a life-changing event (or three) and are forced to confront their feelings, sometimes painfully. Despite the element of fantasy, I try to make their reaction to situations “real.”
I would hope that how my characters deal with any situation would make readers think about how they’d handle those circumstances. Or perhaps nod their head and say to themselves, “Yup. You did it right.”
Looking ahead, are there any new projects or upcoming books that you’re particularly excited about? Can you share a glimpse of what’s next for you as an author?
I’m working on the third book in my “Herself” (paranormal women’s fiction) series. It’s about a third written and the rest is in my head, waiting to be committed to paper. Due to health issues, this is taking much longer than I’d like but someday, I’ll finish it.
After that? Who knows where my imagination will take me?
