Interview with Lakita T Sharpe

Author of How to Be A Successful Wife

Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?

I am from Portsmouth, VA and I reside in Suffolk, VA

If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?

N/A

What made you decide to write and publish your first book?

Ever since I was a little girl around 13 years old I knew in my heart I wanted to be an author. All I ever wanted to do was write. And eventually life happened and I put away my writing for along time. Around the age of 28,29 years old I became ill, and gave my life over to God to heal me, so I discovered a voice of inspiration. While I was working on a church nursery writing project, I begin to be inspired again to write, while reading my bible one night I got the idea to write my first book to my series, “The Adventures of Rainbow Girl Series.” A series for young adults about following their dreams and passions.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

I write fiction and nonfiction. I write books that give people hope, and inspiration. My characters are usually struggling with some sort of problem and they find their life’s calling through God speaking to their heart.My books give people empowerment letting them know that they are not alone and that through my experiences they too can make it.

Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?

I feel like people who are looking for hope, a good story, and personal development.

What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?

I have shared my experience as a self- published author in my book,”How to Be a Successful Writer” What I’ve learn is I can’t write like J. K. Rowling and other writers I have to write like Lakita T. Sharpe the writer that God made me.Writing is about being yourself. In my publishing experienced I’ve learned that in order to be an excellent editor and writer, one must read a lot and read some more and write every day!

If you could, what advice would you give to past self yourself before embarking on this journey?

Do not stop writing no mater what! Don’t listen to haters, because their are some people that just not going like you! Deal with it, move on and chase your dreams anyway! Do not be lazy in your writing!

How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?

I want to reach the people I’m put on this earth to reach. If I have to write for 1 person I would do it, if it’s changing the trajectory of someone’s life. I have to write like I breath even if know one’s listening but me and God.

What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?

I made many mistakes in my writing. I’m wanting to be a better editor and writer. I’m learning my writing mistakes makes me better. I have to constantly read over my work more than a few times to get my point across. I have to make sure I’m taking my time in my writing.

What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

My biggest strengths are:
>Writing- my ideas flow very well.
>Publishing- I can publish my own book and constantly improve on each book.
>Marketing- I love marketing that’s my favorite part, you can’t be afraid of putting yourself out there.

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

My weaknesses:
> Writing- some times it’s hard to focus. Sometimes, I don’t know where a period goes or a comma. I just write and believe in myself.
> Publishing- the software I used usually doesn’t work well so I have to be creative in my work.
> Marketing>- I love all of it!

When do you think you will you write your next book?

I just released my newest book, “Lakita T. Sharpe’s Successful Money Habits.” And I’m proud to say, that this piece I wrote, edited, published, and marketed myself in spite of my weaknesses.

Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?

I am self published. I have published my own books and also worked with a book ministry to published my books in the past until I learned and taught myself how to published my own books. I love the process.