When did you first consider yourself a writer? 

I first considered myself a writer when I wrote and published my academic research papers in widely known periodicals.

What have you written so far? 

I have written 19 novels in multiple genres: science-fiction/fantasy, contemporary romance crossover, mystery/detective and historical romance.

Do you work to an outline or plot sketch, or do you prefer to let a general idea guide your writing? 

Generally I do not outline with the exception of jotting down character names and setting. I write mostly freehand and allow for my thoughts lead to where the plot will unfold. The primary exception is the Consecrated Duology. As both books are set in three worlds, each with their own Crown and traversing space using elements, I did make a one page chart for book two. This was so I would be able to keep track of characters within each world and the powers each had.

How did you decide how to publish your books? 

I decided to self/indie publish my books thus far via ebook platforms.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors? 

To write and even as a reminder for myself, to write when you have little energy, in challenging circumstances and despite other people’s superficial opinions of the literary craft.

Can you share with readers a little bit about your latest book?

I recently published The Speakeasy Murders. It is the roaring 1920s in the city of Chicago. Helen Williams is an astute, but bashful upper class coloured detective. Helen is called in one night to help investigate some peculiar murders in which a field is often used and she now believes is the criminal mastermind’s dumping ground. After a couple of days of discussing similar cases with her colleagues, Helen concludes that the executioner is a serial killer who also orders the killings. These activities stem from an underground nightclub. 

What made you decide to sit down and actually start writing this book? 

I initially challenged myself to write beyond the two main genres I was comfortable in. The Speakeasy Murders is my first mystery/detective romance novel. I enjoy old black and white movies and their dress and the old glamour of the American era gone by. The protagonist is opposite of this. She is neat, somewhat young, highly intelligent, but caring, helpful and observant. Beyond her work, she is aware of her history as a “coloured” woman and those who expected her to achieve—in particular her highly educated grandfather who attended what is now referred to as an HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities).

What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book? 

To write about dance styles and crazes in which I am not familiar. This required me to do some research, including documentary short videos about flappers.

What did you enjoy most about writing this book?

Helen and Thaddeus’ love story.

What is one great lesson you have learned as a writer? 

Where you think you are limited, as long as you continue to write, your creativity will expand and the more books you will write.

Learn more about Patricia and buy the book…

Website | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest

Book links:

Amazon | Smashwords | Bookbub