Debut Author ~ Spending the Month with Susan Lantz Simpson

Join me each week as we learn more about SusanSimpson and her book.

Tell the readers a little about you.

I’ve been writing stories and poetry since I penned my first poem at the age of six. I’ve always loved the magic of words and how they can entertain and enlighten others. My love of words and books led me to earn a degree in English/Education. I’ve taught students from prekindergarten to high school and have worked as an editor for the federal government. I hold a degree in nursing and have worked in hospitals and in community health. I write inspirational stories of love and faith and have published a middle-grade novel (Ginger and the Bully). I live in Maryland and am the mother of two wonderful daughters. When I am not writing, I enjoy reading, walking, and doing needlework.

Tell us about your writing history.

I had a short story published in a local anthology of stories. My children’s middle-grader novel, Ginger and the Bully, was published a few years ago.

Why do you write?

I write because I love words and conjuring up stories for the characters vying for attention in my head. My desire is to bring hope and happiness to my readers.

What is your favorite book to read?

I can’t pick one favorite book. I enjoy Amish novels, of course, but I also love to read romantic suspense and mystery novels.

Do you have a favorite thing you like to do when you write?

I usually like quiet when I write, but I am pretty successful at blocking out background noise once I get into my characters’ minds.

What drew you to the genre you write in?

I have always been fascinated by the Amish and discovered my own ancestors were most likely Amish or Mennonite. I’ve enjoyed reading Amish novels over the years and decided to try my hand at writing Amish inspirational novels.

What does your writing time look like?

I write whenever I can, usually very early in the morning. I work full time so have to fit writing in between work and other activities. I often write while waiting for appointments, in the car if I arrive early for a meeting, or wherever the opportunity presents itself. I often write in the wee hours of the morning before work or weekend activities begin.

What is something you do when you write that is your quirk?

I write in long hand! This makes it easy to take my writing everywhere. Somehow, I seem to think better to paper than to the computer, but then I have to find time later to type everything