FINDING PEACE: T.N. WILLIAMS

by Wayne Jordan

Hi T.N., I want to thank you for sitting down for an interview with RIC.  First, tell us a little about yourself:

ALL ABOUT T.N. WILLIAMS

Favorite Color: I don’t have one particular color that moves me.  Shades of blue and soft greens calm me down when I get too intense, so I guess they could fall into my favorite category

Favorite Song/Group/Singer: Desert Rose by Sting

How long have you been writing?

I have been writing since the seventh grade, but professionally for five years.

What convinced you to get started on your first book?

I was going through a difficult period of my life and writing has always been my outlet.  I didn’t realize that there would be a finished manuscript until after I gained attention from a major publisher.  Having the option of a book deal motivated me to complete my debut novel, Something On the Inside.

Were there any major challenges that almost prevented you from going ahead with it?

Yes, falling into the Christian fiction genre made me feel boxed in.  I felt like I was aspiring to an expectation that I wouldn’t be able to live up to.  I was fearful that I wouldn’t reach the audience I hoped to touch, because my spiritual perspective isn’t conservative.  Then I had to pray about it and let things fall where they may.  Also…the publishing industry is going through changes where authors are doing much more marketing than in previous years and it requires me to multi-task in creative ways that I wasn’t prepared for.  I began to horn my skills and dig deep to become more organized and learn about this industry.

Did you ever imagine that you would become a published author?

I did imagine it, but the reality of being a published author is something special.

What are some of your favorite authors and books?

Iyanla Vanzant Yesterday, I Cried, June Jordan Temptations of Ambivalence (a short poem), Lisa Gardner Live to Tell

What do you do in your down time?

I enjoy reading, cooking and spending time with my family.  I love the ocean so occasionally I’ll drive down to the beach for some serenity.

Describe a typical day in the life of T.N. Williams

Usually from sun up to sun down I am making contacts with people trying to promote my novels.  I also spend a great deal of time doing community advocacy.  I talk with young women about their goals and making wise/healthy choices for their lives.

ALL ABOUT PEACE OF ME

What inspired you to write Peace of Me?

I saw a row of missing child posters when I was in Wal-mart one morning and it struck me how many people disappear each year.  I decided to tie that in with my first novel, Something On the Inside and make it a sequel that didn’t feel like a sequel.   

Do you have any favorite characters or scenes that you wouldn’t mind sharing or providing a little more insight on?

I actual like Alicia.  She is bold, abrupt and very realistic.  I like that no holds barred personality.  It was important to me that I show a character that was temperamental and strongly opinionated, but that also struggled with major obstacles.  I don’t believe in perfect Christianity so I needed someone inherently imperfect…someone who was not prayed up to have a bold voice in the story.  Alicia is who she is.  Take her or leave her.  Plus she realizes that she needs to be better and do better, but she is going to do it at her own pace.

Did you face any major challenges writing this particular story? Yes. If so, what were they?

It was dealing with the genre and still trying to tell a story that wasn’t judgmental or preachy. My editor and I had to pull it together where we were both satisfied.  When I reread the finished manuscript I was happy with PEACE OF ME.

ALL ABOUT THE FANS

What’s next for you?

I am writing my fourth novel, QUIETS KEPT which is a suspense.  It doesn’t fall into the Christian Fiction category, but I believe fans will love the story.

Do you have any reader events coming up (book signing, tours, etc.)?

I will be at several Urban Knowledge stores in South and North Carolina for February and March.  I will also be at the National Black Book Conference in Atlanta this summer.  I’m still scheduling things and the information will be on my website at www.tnwilliams.com.

How can your readers stay in touch with you?

I have a contact tab on my website.  They can also reach me on Facebook under T.n.Williams.

What advice or encouragement do you have for aspiring authors?

Never stop believing in your passion and research the industry.  It is just like with any other occupation.  You should know what you are getting yourself into.

Thanks again, T.N. Williams, for taking the time for this interview.  If you’re interest has been piqued about her new release, PEACE OF ME, be sure to purchase a copy for your favorite online store.