Yaay! Another writing challenge! I’ve been tagged in a blog hop called “The Next Big Thing” (TNBT) by the amazingly creative children’s author Eyvonna Rains, who also happens to be a really sweet friend of mine. I was tagged on July 3^rd, but with Independence Day right around the corner, I figured I’d wait until after to post my response.

Anyway, here’s how TNBT works:

1. Answer the ten TNBT questions listed below about your current WIP.
2. Tag five other writers and link to their blogs so we can hop over and read their answers!

What is the title of your book/WIP?

The Broken Home

Where did the idea for the book come from?

Where does the wind come from? That would honestly be an easier question to answer for me, lol. Seriously though, as a former victim of domestic violence, I felt this fire inside – a fire that needed to get out. The Broken Home is more than just a story to me; it’s a healing process. I hope it brings awareness and healing to others that have been, will be or are in a domestic violence situation. I also hope it sheds some light on the often misunderstood dynamics of abusive relationships. That’s my big goal. My small (note sarcasm) is to write a damn good story that readers will enjoy enough to share, recommend, and maybe even re-read.

What genre would your book fall under?

I’m still trying to figure out how to put this one into words – realistic dramatic paranormal fiction…maybe?

Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?

I’ve been mulling over this one for months now! Celebrities that kind of look like my characters don’t seem to fit the dramatic effect of the book, but those that are intense enough to play the part don’t seem to fit the vision I have in my head. It’s a good thing I’m not a movie producer, cuz I stink at it! Of course, if I had to pick, I think I would go with Neve Campbell for Cassandra. She’s a sweet, innocent, pretty young lady who can totally kick some ass if she needs to. Because of Brad Pitt’s ability to play rather mentally unstable individuals, I could totally see him slipping right into Matt’s character. Unfortunately, he’s a little older than Matt. Still, I think he could pull it off, and who can stay away from a Brad Pitt film? For Ryan, I’d choose Ryan Gosling – he’s totally hot and really amazing at portraying characters that are faced with do-or-die situations, plus he’s a total sweetie. While he’s definitely shorter than Ryan the character, I can’t think of anyone else that could play the part of Ryan better.

What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?

After years of rape and abuse, Cassandra Riley’s life is interrupted by a ghost with an agenda and a deadly choice to make: run and risk her life or stay and risk it all

Is your book published or represented?

My book will be independently published.

How long did it take you to write?

Forever! Let’s see, we’re going on six months, maybe seven now…and I’m not set  to publish until next summer.

What other books within your genre would you compare it to?

I am certain there are other books out there to compare mine to, but to be honest, I don’t know of any at the present time.  I do know of a few other books that have a few similar elements, however: Betrayed by Woodke Hawkinson and Twisted Vengeance by Jeff Bennington.

Which authors inspired you to write this book?

My biggest source of inspiration came from Rachael Wade. I’m pretty certain that I wouldn’t have taken writing this book, or any other book for that matter, if she hadn’t been there to give me the loving kick in the rear I needed. =) But there are also other writers that have inspired me along the way, either with their encouragement or their writing. Jeff Bennington, Bradley Salters, Belle Mallory, Woodke Hawkinson, Kenya Wright…just to name a few.

Tell us anything else that might pique our interest in your book.

I think what I love most about The Broken Home is that the domestic violence topic, while consistent throughout, isn’t the only focus. You have a ghost that causes a bunch of trouble, a totally hot bad boy, a totally hot “good” guy, tons of action, and twists and turns in the plot that make it a true work of fiction. My goal is to include a touch of compassion while still focusing on writing a book that will leave readers wanting more.

Now for part B! Tag! You’re it!

Maryellen Brady

Jennifer Wagner

Sarah L. Fox

A.M. Schultz

Douglas Wickard