My Reading Problem: Author Interview – Rachel Rossano @RachelRossano

Image of Rachel Rossano

If you could do any job in the world what would you do?

Wife, mother, and writer, I am living my dream and I am so thankful.

Are you a city slicker or a country lover?

I love the country, but I do like the convenience of stores, libraries, and resturants nearby. I guess I am bit of both. Though, if you are talking about a major city, that is not for me. I need more space and green than most cities offer.

Do you find the time to read?

Reading led me to writing. I love to read. When I cannot write, I tend to read.

Last book you purchased? Tell us about it.

I just finished reading Shadows by Robin McKinley and loved it. In the tradition of Diana Wynne Jones (to whom the book is dedicated), the story is full of quirky characters, fantastical magic, and great imagination. I thoroughly enjoyed every word and stayed up way later than I should have to finish it. Robin McKinley is a master at the craft of storytelling and I hope she writes a sequel.

What do you hope people will take away from your writing? How will your words make them feel?

My main purpose is to tell a good story. I want my readers to finish my books satisfied, but still wanting more. The characters that populate my stories continue to live in my head long after I am finished writing their adventures down. I hope they live in my reader’s minds as well.

How do you feel about self-publishing?

I think it is a reasonable alternative to traditional publishing, though it isn’t for everyone. I personally didn’t pursue traditional publication at all because I don’t write what most publishing houses are looking to publish. I have tried writing more traditional novels, but I haven’t accomplished one yet.

Now that I have been publishing as an indie author for a few years, I am not certain I would sign with a publisher unless the deal was substantial. I am enjoying the autonomy that comes with indie-publishing. Though, I might change my preference if my circumstances change.

What’s your next project?

I am currently writing the sequel to Duty, which is tentatively titled Honor. One or more sequels are planned, but I am only just beginning to collect ideas for those. To supplement the novels, I have an anthology developing. Two out of six stories are already written.

In the coming year, two more novels are in the publishing process from a different series. I am also working through my back log of rough drafts and polishing them for release as well.

What would you love to produce in your life?

As a writer, I would like to continue to write, growing, improving, and refining my craft, producing better quality work as I go.

What’s the reason for your life? Have you figured out your reason for being here yet?

My purpose is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. I try to reflect that in my writing.

What’s your favorite place in the entire world?

I love being with my husband. He is my best friend.