Meet The Authors Showcase Edition #3 (3 of 3)

A showcase with @NatashaGintoki author of: Fight my way

1 what inspired the idea of your story?

 In the 90s, back when I was in the seventh grade, you just didn't see that many interracial couples (at least I didn't) so I thought it would be interesting to write a story based on that idea, and thus was born Devin and Trechial. Devin went through a transformation of ethnicities over the years. Originally, he was white and Spanish, Italian, fully Spanish, then finally I decided on Asian.   

2 what is something you struggled constructing with your story?

I struggle with writing in general because I have ADHD, LOL. I mostly struggle with staying on track and not making everything romantic but then again sometimes I struggle with not giving the characters a break from hard times. I have balance issues. 

3 what did you enjoy writing most of your story?

 I enjoy seeing the development of each character. They both go through tragic events in their childhood/teenage lives on top of Devin trying to protect Trechial from her stepfather. Its always fun to write the close calls too. 

4 what's the overall response of your story from your readers?

The overall response is positive. A lot of people like the nostalgia aspect of my work especially if they grew up in the 90s.

5 is your story a stand alone novel or a piece of a series ?

Series. There will be a second book called The Missing Piece  

6 what would you like your readers to take away from your story?

If they are young, hopefully it will make them want to go research the 90s and see how awesome it was growing up in that time. If they around my age and they grew up in that time my wish is my story brought back some good memories for them. In addition, I hope they can enjoy the story and Devin and Trechial's journey together 

7 what advice would you provide to fellow writers, when it comes to focusing on their own story?

It's your story, write it however you see fit, and remember that everyone will not like your work. Criticism comes with the territory and that's okay. Stay focused and keep writing.  

8 does your main character share any similarities to yourself?

Yes, they do. Trechial loves all things boyband related especially the Backstreet Boys (I was obsessed with BSB). Maylee is a secondary character, but she is from New Orleans, like me, and speaks her mind freely and the friendly folk of Virginia does not know what to do with that. LOL. Devin shares some characteristics of a boy I knew in middle and high school.  

9 what is something about your story you believe would draw in new readers?

I believe the interracial and cultural aspect is a huge factor in my story. Not only do Devin and Trechial have to fight off the stereotypes that people have about their friendship they also have to keep Trechial's predatory stepdad away from her. On top of all that they are going through a lot of changes within themselves, fighting growing feelings towards one another while maintaining romantic relationships with other people.  

10 do you have any future projects?

I plan on starting The Missing Piece once I conclude Fight My Way. I also write short stories and post unfished ideas that I have.