Get ready to indulge in a tempting author, Shamara Ray. Shamara has been having a love affair with reading forever now, but she decided to make it an official relationship when she brought out her first novel, Recipe for Love. Before Recipe for Love was published, she decided she wanted to write books after being inspired by some of her favorite authors such as Stephen King and John Grisham. She is a true testament that you must have determination and begin your writing career with your first word. That one word will turn into a sentence, then a page, a chapter, and finally your first book. It’s that easy so don’t allow doubt and other issues to draw you away from your main purpose. We’re so glad Shamara graced our blog with her insightful advice about her inspirations for her characters and writing style. We love a boss chick who creates her own path by learning from her inspirations. Most important, we respect a woman who is admirable and lives to inspire others.
When did you begin writing?
I’ve always had an affinity for the written word, but I began to write in earnest during high school. We were reading a variety of literary works from Moby Dick to Romeo and Juliet and something ignited inside me. There was a spark of creativity that led me to start writing my own stories.
What type of books do you write? Why did you decide on this genre?
I write contemporary relationship fiction. I tell stories that delve into the intricacies of relationships between men and women, family, friends, and even acquaintances. I explore the dynamics of relationships, romantic and platonic, and strive to deliver an engaging story. Ironically, I didn’t choose the genre. It sort of chose me. I’m a book enthusiast by nature. I read everything: the classics, suspense, horror, science fiction, fantasy, and historical fiction. When I finally decided to write my first novel, I allowed the story to take on a life of its own. I sat at my computer, wrote my first line, and let creativity take over. As my story took shape, I found myself in the midst of a contemporary relationship novel—and loving every minute of the experience.
What’s the main inspiration behind how you create your characters?
The main inspiration behind how I create my characters is that I want to make them relatable. I want readers to feel that they can identify with my characters and the situations they go through. Ultimately, I’d like for readers to care about my characters and become invested in their journeys.
What advice would you give aspiring writers or authors?
The best advice I have ever received and that I share with aspiring writers is to just start writing . . . one word at a time. So often we get transfixed on the desire to write that we put off actually starting. All it takes is putting one word at a time down on the page. Before you know it, you have a sentence. Then you have a paragraph, and then a page, a chapter, and so on.
Does music inspire your creativity? What type of music is your favorite? Who are your favorite artists?
Music is everything to me! I love music. It has inspired me on many occasions during the writing process. Sometimes when writing a particular scene I’ll turn on music. For example, if my characters are at a barbeque, I might put on a playlist that sets the tone or vibe for that scene. It may be something grown and sexy or an upbeat party song. Music has had a wonderful influence on my creativity.
It’s difficult for me to choose my favorite type of music. I listen to R&B, jazz, salsa, rap, pop, and a little rock. My tastes are extremely diverse and I tend to listen to music to fit my mood. I love a variety of artists, too many to name but a few of my favorites are Prince, Stevie Wonder, Jill Scott, Sade, and Kendrick Lamar.
Who is your favorite author? Why?
If I have to choose one favorite author, I would have to say Eric Jerome Dickey. He draws you into his storytelling with colorful characters and engrossing plots. His novels are page-turners that leave you wanting more. I also have to mention Anne Rice, Terry McMillan, Stephen King, and Jane Austen. Their novels are among some of my favorite reads.
If you were/are an advocate for a specific cause what would it be and why?
Children’s literacy. So many of our youth are struggling with reading. The inability to read well can have a lasting impact on the future success of our children. Helping children to appreciate and enjoy reading, while improving their skills, is an important cause. At a very early age my mother fostered my love of books and instilled in me that reading skills are vital.
Where do you aspire to be in the next five to ten years?
In the next five to ten years I aspire to still be writing books, but also screenplays. I’d love to see my characters on both the small and big screen.
What are your top three places in the world that you would like to visit and why?
The top three places I’d like to visit are Egypt, Italy, and France. They’re historically and culturally rich. The mystery surrounding the pyramids—how they were built without modern technology—is very interesting to me. I’d also like to visit Vatican City for its art and architecture and the Eiffel Tower.
Do you have any books coming out soon or any future projects that you would like to share with us?
My fifth novel, Cater to You, will be available on January 5, 2016. I’m really excited about this novel. The main character, Riley Ryan, has four men vying for her attention and she is doing her best not to fall prey to any of their advances. Of course, that’s easier said than done!
What are your social media handles?
I can be reached on Facebook, on Twitter @ShamaraRay, and on Instagram @ShamaraRay. Also, my website is ShamaraRay.com
VIRGO GIRL 5 THINGS TO ASK:
What would you tell your 21-year-old self?
Live your passion. Don’t be afraid to do what you love in life.
I start my day with . . .
I start my day with a mantra to focus on positivity and success, not failure.
If you could invite any woman to dinner, who would it be?
Oprah Winfrey. I’d love the opportunity to benefit from the wealth of knowledge she could share.
Best advice you have received?
Always put God first in your life.
Life motto you live by?
You must spread your wings in order to soar.