When I was as little as four years old, my mom would give me a pen and paper and tell me to write a story to keep me busy.
— Tracie Peterson
I've actually traveled quite a bit with various authors. Judith Miller and I toured the highlands in Scotland with Liz Curtis Higgs, and that was incredible fun. However, I love going with my husband, who - although he is not a writer per se, he is a historian and can give me a lot of insight on various historical locations.
Sometimes, my books start with a scene I see in my mind, such as a woman in a wedding dress running away from her wedding like in 'Embers of Love.' Sometimes, a book can start with a character.
Every part of the country has its story to tell, so I'm always looking for the next place to be.
Authors can get an attitude of us-against-them when it comes to publishers, but learning how authors and editors can work together taught me to look at my work in a different way and to make that work as solid as possible before it ever goes to the publisher.
I've been in a lot of castles, and they are pretty damp, cold and gloomy. However, I love Windsor Castle in England.
My writing process is such that a story will be in my head for awhile, and I'll start making notes on my computer. I create character sheets that include a character's past, fears, goals and ambitions.
I realized little by little that words are very powerful, and taking those words to encourage people rather than tear them apart was the desire of my heart.
I used to think I'd like to have been a pioneer on the Oregon Trail, experience untamed America.
I enjoy the research and love actually creating the words. There's not too much I find a drudge when it comes to writing.
