Margarite Stever grew up in Asbury, a tiny Missouri town of just over 200 people. She’s dreamed of being a writer since age twelve. She’s won many awards and enjoyed publication in several anthologies and magazines including Chicken Soup for the Soul. Her seeds of wisdom and joy can be read on her blog at ozarksmaven.com. Her short story collection, Moonbeams and Ashes: Tales of Mystery, Love, and the Paranormal, is being released October 17, 2021.
Where do you feel most comfortable writing and what time of day?
I feel most comfortable writing of an evening either in my study or the living room. My study tends to be cooler than the living room, so my choice depends upon the time of year.
Do you have a certain routine you follow to get yourself prepared to write?
I make certain I have a fresh beverage, a snack, and a box of tissues beside me before I begin to write. I typically drink coffee, Pepsi Zero, herbal tea, or water depending on the time of day. I also keep my fan, blanket, and hand cream close. I write best if I’m comfortable.
How long do you write before closing up shop?
On my days off from work, I usually write until my eyes are screaming and my back refuses to be still any longer. On worknights, I write from the time I get home from work until around 9:00 p.m. If I write any longer, I won’t sleep and will be worthless at my day job.
Do you use anything to get you in the mood such as music, Pinterest boards, photos, etc.?
I listen to Native American flute music, Celtic music, or heavy metal music while I look at art representing the setting about which I wish to write. For my upcoming debut novel, Legacy of Secrets, I studied pictures of my grandparents’ farm from my childhood. The setting is critical to this particular story.
Describe your writing workspace.
I surround myself with things that inspire me. My study contains treasures I’ve inherited from family members and collected over the years along with things that make me happy. Grandma’s radio cookie jar stands proudly next to some of my Wonder Woman collection and precious mementos from my past.
What genre do you write?
I’m best known as a blogger. My blog, Ozarks Maven, where I share my thoughts, wisdom, and joy has been read in over eighty countries. I have a monthly Author Spotlight segment, which has become immensely popular. I had the honor of spotlighting our beloved Tierney James last November.
I also write paranormal and contemporary romance, mystery, creative nonfiction, and poetry. I write more short stories than anything. I love writing ghost stories.
I’m releasing my first book, a short story collection entitled Moonbeams and Ashes: Tales of Mystery, Love, and the Paranormal, which will be released October 17, 2021. The e-book is now available for preorder for 99 cents. The price will increase to $2.99 on October 17, 2021. The paperback book will be $7.99, but I don’t believe it’s available for preorder yet.
I wanted Moonbeams and Ashes to be representative of the things I love to write, so it’s multi-genre. It features paranormal, mystery, romance, and humorous stories.
I’ll be having a book signing for Moonbeams and Ashes on October 30, 2021 at Always Buying Books in Joplin, Missouri from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
I hope to have my debut novel, Legacy of Secrets, ready for publication soon.
How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing since I was twelve years old. However, I took a twenty-year hiatus to concentrate on making a living and caring for my family. I took my pen back up again in 2009.
What is one thing you’d like for other writers and readers to know about you.
I write what’s in my heart. I sit down at my computer and pour my heart and soul onto the page.
Thank you so much for letting us visit your special writing cave. I know the book is going to be a hit. I’ve already ordered my copy!
Social Media Links
https://www.facebook.com/authormargarite
Book Link
2 Responses
Loved the interview.
Thank you!