Please welcome Elaine Spencer – 
an author of historical fiction.
1. What do you enjoy most about writing?
As a writer of fiction, I enjoy escaping to a make believe world where I am in control. I also like that I’m constantly learning in a way that I enjoy.
2. What age did you start writing stories/poems?
I started getting into writing as a form of self-expression and healing when I was in high school. It began as journaling then, as I learned more about myself and the world, ideas just started to grow.
3. Has your genre changed or stayed the same?
It has changed from writing for myself to writing for others in a more technical form to writing historical fiction for pleasure, which is what I enjoy most.
4. What genre are you currently reading?
Historical fiction and biographies.
5. Do you read for pleasure or research or both?
Although most of my reading these days is for research, I love reading just for pleasure. There’s nothing like going on a mini vacation from daily life by getting lost in a good story.
6. Who is your best supporter/mentor/encourager?
I have a wonderful list of family and friends who support and encourage but my husband and sister are definitely at the top.
7. Of the characters you have created or envisioned, which is your favorite & why?
There is a lot of myself in the character of Charlotte Logan (Charlie) but one of my favorite characters is Percival Meade because he starts out snooty, annoying and with many flaws but turns out to be likeable and a little more humble while staying true to who he is.
8. Where is your favorite writing space?
I have a home office with everything I need including a writing desk and comfortable reading corner.
9. Do you plan your stories, or are you a seat of the pants writer?
I create a basic outline where I decide on the setting, plot, main characters and so forth. Once the writing process actually begins, changes develop, new characters step in and the story unfolds.
10. What inspires your ideas/stories?
Inspiration is all around but we have to go looking for it. Books, music, news, observing people, traveling, nature, personal experiences and good old imagination are some of the places where I find inspiration.
11. Do you belong to a writing group? If so which one?
I joined a local group but found that with an outside job, research, and writing, I couldn’t commit to a scheduled time so found an online source that suits my needs and allows more flexibility to share and critique with other writers, access workshops and participate in forums.
12. If you could meet one favorite author, who would it be and why?
There are so many writers to learn from and even more I’ve never read but I love the way authors like John Steinbeck have mastered their use of description, dialogue, and creating believable characters.
13. Do you have a book(s) published? If so, what is it called & where can readers purchase it?
Freedom Reins is a historical fiction available through a variety of sources including Amazon, friesenpress.com, and itunes.
14. Where can readers find you and your blog?
My website is http://www.e-spencer.com
15. Do you have plans or ideas for your next book?
I’m currently researching and have begun some writing for another historical fiction.
Thank you Elaine for the insight into your writing journey.
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