Author of the Week: Charmaine R. Parker

A&RBC: How did you become a writer?
Charmaine: I started writing fiction when I was a child and had a love for reading. Years later I became a journalist and honed my skills to conduct an interview or cover an event, then put it all in words. Now I’ve come full circle and back to writing fiction with my debut novel.

A&RBC: Where does your inspiration for your characters come from?
Charmaine: Many of my friends and experiences inspired the characters and their personalities.

A&RBC: What are you hoping readers take from your book?

Charmaine: There are various messages throughout the book. Appreciate your friendships and cherish sisterhood—among friends and siblings. My lead character has turned 40 and this does not mean her life is “over.” Forty is the new twenty. Live your life to the fullest and focus on the positive.  

A&RBC: If you were to write a book about a controversial topic, what would it be?
Charmaine: Parenthood

A&RBC: Most writers have a process or method for writing their books, what is yours?

Charmaine: Originally, I thought that I was going to use an outline. It turned out that I developed the order of the chapters during the writing process. I thought about what scene would be next and sat down to write it. It was more spontaneous than I expected. I found that the late-night hours was when I was the most creative and had fewer distractions.

A&RBC: What is your favorite genre of books?

Charmaine: Romance and suspense

A&RBC: Are you an avid or occasional reader?

Charmaine: I read constantly due to my role as publishing director. I edit manuscripts and read submissions from prospective authors. I have a huge library of books, many autographed, and I am an occasional reader for pleasure.

A&RBC: What are two things you want your readers to know about you?

Charmaine: I thrive on friendships and I’m told I “never meet a stranger.” I’m a networker and believe that one should cultivate relationships with people from all walks of life. When I was a journalist, I met the guy on the street corner who was hoping to be picked up for a day’s work (this was my first enterprise story as a reporter) to meeting the local businesswoman or politician to interviewing celebrity recording artists. Each interview was different and I came away with some type of mental benefit.  I was raised to believe that education and travel are key ingredients to a fulfilling life. They do help to establish a solid foundation.

A&RBC: If you could interview one of your favorite authors, who would it be? Why?

Charmaine: My younger sister Zane. She has been the subject of numerous interviews, however, there are aspects of her life that readers may want to discover.

A&RBC: What is or was your dream job?

Charmaine: Owner of a magazine or a travel writer

A&RBC: What new projects are you working on?

Charmaine: I’ve started creating characters in my mind for a second novel.

A&RBC: Where can readers find you?

Charmaine: On Facebook/Charmaine Roberts Parker

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