Sunday Chat with Really Rashida

The Vallory V blog welcomes Really Rashida ~

Where are you from?

A: I was born, raised, and currently live in Cleveland, Ohio.

When did you first know you could be a writer?

A: In first grade we had “Book Day” every Tuesday. Each student created a book and presented it to the class. I always took this very serious. I always loved the feeling of writing stories so it was then that I knew I could be a writer.

What inspires you to write and why?

A: Everyday life inspires me to write. All of my stories come from the crazy things that I’ve encountered in life. I want to show ladies like me that just because we come from the ghetto don’t mean that our stories aren’t worthy of being told. With every story I write I keep my homegirls in mind.

What do you consider the most challenging thing about writing a novel, or about writing in general?

A: Developing characters. It really takes time to give birth to a character that is realistic and intriguing so that the readers believe that the person is just as real as they are.

Can you share a little of your work with us?

A: My latest novel is called ‘Toxic’. It’s a suspense thriller in the urban genre. Here is a blurb:

Love is a hell of a drug and Tracey is a full-blown addict. Just when she thought she was over the lies, abuse, and betrayal from her boyfriend, Andre, she had fallen right back into his trap. What started out as a romantic reunion between the estranged lovers ended in kidnapping and over twelve hours of torture for Tracey.
When she was finally set free she ran to the person who always bails her out when she gets knee deep in drama: her best friend and mentor, Sandra. Hearing how Andre violated Tracey again told her that it was time to introduce an unorthodox way to stop Andre permanently. Tracey was going to kill him and Sandra would teach her how.
The plan was done and the scene was set perfectly. All Tracey had to do was slip some poison in Andre’s drink. Unfortunately, the murder goes terribly wrong and he escapes. Now Tracey has to find him and finish the job before it’s too late.

Can you tell us about your main character?

A: The main character is a young lady named Tracey. Tracey is naive girl who is looking for love in all the wrong places. Despite all that, she is strong and persistent. She is the type of girl that you love and feel sorry for all at the same time.

What was the hardest part about writing this book?

A: The hardest part was giving the book a good love story. I don’t read romance novels that often so writing it didn’t come naturally.

How can we purchase your books?

A: You can purchase my books in all formats via Smashwords and Amazon

Have you started another book yet?

A: Absolutely! It’s called Beautiful Liar and it’s an urban murder mystery. I’m very excited about it.

How do you deal with bad reviews?

A: I accept it and move on because I know that not everyone will like my writing. We are all entitled to our opinions. I just see if I can use that criticism to get better at what I do.

Do you have any advice for writers?

A: Learn as much as you can about the craft and business of writing before you write your first word. Then continue to learn because the industry is always changing and you will want to be on top of your game.

If you could have supernatural power, what would it be and why?

A: I would be able to turn invisible whenever I want. That way I can disappear and not be bothered when I want. Plus, it would be fun to mess with people.

Find Really Rashida online: 

Website: http://reallyrashida.wix.com/books

Twitter: http://twitter.com/reallyrashida

Facebook: http://facebook.com/reallyrashida

Youtube: http://youtube.com/reallyrashida

From the author: As a special gift to your readers I have a coupon code for 15% off for the duration of the tour, which ends May 3, 2013. They will have to purchase the book from the following link – https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/287784

Then enter the following coupon code at checkout: UG56V

Thanks Rashida!