Interview Sandra Cox

by

Linda Rettstatt

1) Congratulations on the release of your novel, Shardai. Would you tell us a little about the book and where you got the idea for this story?

My cat of twelve years developed cancer. When he passed I missed him desperately and wanted him back. From the grief sprang Shardai. I wrote a ‘what if’. What if he could find his way back. I hope with all my heart there is a Catarau for all creatures. Some of the things that animals have to endure during their lifetime are heartbreaking. I’d like to think there's a better place waiting for them.

2) Is Shardai your first novel? How did you get your start in writing?

I have two paranormal romances out at cerridwenpress.com. I owe my start to Helen Woodall, who accepted The Crystal my first publication.

3) How do you write? Do you plot out your work, or do you write by the seat of your pants? Do you have a writing schedule?

I start out with a plot or at least different options for my characters. But it’s seldom hard and fast, just enough to keep me moving. When I'm not working I write, evenings and weekends. I try to write a thousand words everyday.

4) Do you have a critique partner or group, or are you a member of any writer’s group? If so, how is it beneficial to your writing?

I wrote for years without success. Then I joined the FTHRW on line chapter and, subsequently, its critique group. I think they played a large role in helping me finally get published. I would definitely recommend a writing chapter and a crit group to those of you who are trying to break into the publishing industry. I now crit with a couple of other writers.

5) Would you describe your writing work space?

I'm in the lower level, surrounded by cat pictures, posters and books. My desk is situated between two windows. We are in a wooded area so it’s easy to get distracted by the critters and the view. Oftentimes a bird is hopping around outside the window, or a squirrel is at the window being nosy. My husband was working at the desk late one night and looked up and a raccoon was staring through the window at him.

6) Is your background in writing, or have you pursued other careers?

I'm an admin assist but I hope to be able to write full time in a couple of years.

7) When you're not writing, where might you be found?

Curled up with a good book or shopping. I love to shop.

8) What are some of your hobbies and interests?

Reading of course:) And I enjoy hiking in the mountains. I’m also very intrigued with gemstones. I'm currently working on a ‘magic amulets’ series. Each book is based around a gemstone with specific powers.

9) What is one thing that people would be most surprised to know about you?

That's a tough one. Maybe that at one time I had my own cat rescue.

10) What would you want to say to your fellow Wings authors and to your readers?

To my readers... a heartfelt thank you. To Wingies... write on.

11) Do you have a website?

Yes, thanks for asking. www.sandracox1.com. If anyone has an opportunity, stop by the blog and say hey its sandracox.blogspot.com

Sandra, thanks so much. It's been a pleasure meeting you.

Thanks for having me, Linda. The pleasure has been mine.