First of all Trice, I would like to thank you for taking the time out for this interview! I have loved your writing since the moment I opened your book, Playing the Hand You’re Dealt. I am so glad that you then sent me Unexpected Interruptions and Keeping Secrets and Telling Lies to read and review. All three books were 5/5 diamond books!
I also have to thank you for your advice on naming my blog. My blog was previously called The Books I Read. I told you I love reading books by black authors and wanted some kind of name to reflect that. You came up with some great blog names, and I am glad I decided on one of your suggestions: Black Diamonds Book Reviews. That blog name really stood out and it works out well with having diamonds as ratings.
If you have to describe yourself with one word, what would it be?
Answer: First, I have to start by giving you a big thank you, Cheryl! I appreciate you giving me this opportunity to connect with your blog readers! Well, to answer the question, the one word I would use to describe myself is Effervescent!
How do you come up with the stories and characters?
Answer: I think about the what if’s. I come up with a story line and then think, “what if” the character does this or that? For instance, with my first book, Unexpected Interruptions, I thought about the common story line of a love triangle where one woman has to chose between two men—but then I thought, “what if” one man was black and the other was white. My characters are a product of my vivid imagination. As I develop characters, I create a biography for each one so that I know them individually, inside and out. Doing this helps me to effectively tell their story in their voice and not my own.
What type of research goes into your books?
Answer: I do a combination of internet and good old fashion hands-on research for my books. In Unexpected Interruptions, one of my characters is a surgeon, so I shadowed a physician for one day to see what his typical day at the hospital was like (I got permission from him to do this, of course). I research my character’s profession, the city they live in, the places/establishments they frequent in the book, the organizations and businesses they are associated with, and anything else that makes their lives become real. It’s important to get the little details right so the characters and their stories are authentic.
Is there a place you go for inspiration to write?
I love to write in my home office late at night. The comfort of this room inspires me because it gives me a sense of peace and calm, like I’m tucked away from the world in a place all my own. It was originally an attic (it’s quite roomy ) that we converted a few years ago. Two of the walls are exposed brick, giving it a warm, cozy feel, and I painted the other two walls a soft sage green. It’s comfortable and relaxing. I even decorated with large pillows, and made a small sitting area for those times I want to lounge while I’m working.
What is one food item that you can’t live without?
Answer: Oh, now that’s a really good question! I guess I would have to say potatoes. I love potatoes, and I can eat them any way—baked, fried, mashed, roasted, stewed…you get the picture!
What do you like to do when you aren’t writing (hobbies, etc.)
Answer: I absolutely love cooking! During the holidays or when I’m going to throw a large party, I’ve been known to cook from sun up to sun down. I also love working on home improvement projects. I have a power drill and a tool belt…and I know how to use them!
Are you reading anything right now?
Answer: Kimberla Lawson Roby’s book, Love, Honor, and Betray, which is excellent! Also, I had started reading Cleopatra: A Life, by Stacy Schiff, a few months ago, but only got a chance to read a few chapters when things got really hectic in my life. I’m going to pick it up again and finish it. It’s a very interesting book.
Do you have any other special talents besides writing?
Answer: I’m not sure if this is considered a special talent, but I’m pretty good at cooking and decorating, which are two of my hobbies. I love doing both because just as with writing, they require a certain level of creativity, concentration, and patience.
What advice would you give to those aspiring writers out there?
Answer: The first and most important thing is to not give up. This is a tough business, but if you continue to push through you will eventually get your book published. I would also advise any aspiring writer to do their research. There is so much to learn and know about the publishing industry. Being informed helps you to make wiser decisions which can save time and money. I offer coaching sessions for aspiring writers that will teach them what they need to know about everything from writing a book to promoting and selling it. Information can be found on the Writer’s page of my web site (www.tricehickman.com).
What is next for you in 2011?
Answer: Thanks for asking! I’m excited about 2011! My originally self-published novel, Unexpected Interruptions, will be re-released by my new publisher, Kensington (Dafina Books), March 29, 2011. I’m writing my fourth novel, working on an exciting new Internet project with a few other authors (more to come on this soon!), and attending book events each month.
Will you be coming to Michigan for any kind of book tour?
Answer: Oh, I sure hope so! I was in Detroit two summers ago, (my first time!), and I would love to visit again. If there’s a book club, book store, or avid reader and blogger (hint, hint!) in Michigan that would like to host an event for me, I’ll be there with diamond studded bells on!
How can your readers contact you?
Trice,
Thank you so much for this interview! I learned more about you, and I am glad to know you! - Cheryl
Thank you, Cheryl! The pleasure was completely mine. I appreciate and value all that you do to support and promote authors! - Trice
