Interview with Chelsea Blankenship

Author of Castle Builder • Hazel Eyes Series •

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

I grew up in Coweta – a small town in Northeastern Oklahoma and I now reside in Tulsa, Oklahoma with my husband.

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

I moved from the small town of Coweta to Tulsa when I married my husband. He grew up just on the outskirts of Tulsa in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma… just about 20 minutes away from my hometown of Coweta.

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

I have always had a passion for writing! My favorite subjects in school were English and Literature. I have always wanted to be a writer ever since I was very young. Due to current health issues, including undergoing cancer treatment, I found I had a lot of time on my hands since I was unable to work outside of the home. I thought my passion for writing would be perfect to occupy my free time, while making it a “stay-at-home job”, if you will.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

My writing currently lends itself to the suspense and thriller genres, but I am still exploring other categories of fiction. I like to think I have a very big imagination which will no doubt help me expand into my future literary journey and endeavors.

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

People who like to stay on the edge of their seat, wondering what twists are around the corner are more likely the audience my books will attract.

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

I’ve always been one who had very low self-esteem, however these books have helped me to grow and teach me that I have a lot to offer. Despite some difficult challenges, I feel like God has led me down this path to show me what I was truly capable of. I hope that my books can somehow help and encourage others to find their own paths and know that you can do anything you set your mind to.

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

A very cliché answer, short and sweet: when life gives you lemons, make that lemonade extra sweet!

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

Obviously, I would love for my books to reach as many people as possible – but especially those who have gone through similar struggles.

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

In the beginning, I struggled with self-doubt quite a bit. I wondered if my writing was good or interesting enough to warrant a steady audience. Now, I just try to keep up with all of the ideas that run through my head.

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

a) You’ve always heard the phrase that goes along the lines of “Do the job you love.” I couldn’t say anything better than that when it comes to writing… I just enjoy doing it. It’s as simple as that.

b) I will admit I have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I do feel this plays a beneficial part to the publishing aspect since formatting is crucial in the publishing stage.

c) I am a social butterfly – and I firmly believe self-promotion plays a huge role in marketing. I can just get out there and do something I’m good at – talking! (Ha!)

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

a) Time management due to medical treatments and not always feeling my best is something I get frustrated with from time to time.

b) Also due to my OCD, I do tend to change my mind quite a bit wanting everything to be just right.

c) I would like to build my audience a little more, and I am still discovering different avenues in order to do that.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I am actually in the process of writing my next book, and so far, I am very happy with it and where it is going. I cannot wait to get it released!

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

I am self-published.