Shannon Rouchelle Interview and Giveaway

Hello Shannon Rouchelle. Thank you to taking the time to stop by. I am honored to have you here.

To start, would you mind telling the readers a little about yourself? 

I grew up on the Saskatchewan prairies and spent the cold winter nights using my imagination to write stories for school. I enjoyed creative writing and had the opportunity to read my work to an auditorium full of people. The positive results gave me the ambition to pursue writing even further. As a young girl, I aspired to be a writer. With determination and hard work, my dreams came true.

I've been married for 20 yrs and have two boys. We enjoy travel and spending time with family and friends.

Can you tell us about Star Gazer? Do you have a favorite scene in Star Gazer?

I always wanted to write an inspirational Christmas story. The idea for Star Gazer had been in the back of my mind for many years. I wanted to write something that speaks to the people today and at the same time, gives the reader hope for an uncertain future. I dedicated the story to a couple who show compassion to others and give unselfishly of themselves. The story follows the same principle.

My favorite scene is when Christine meets the handsome doctor, Kent Peterson, for the first time in the Italian diner. When their worlds collide, the story brings the two separate lives together.

You have a new series, Leslie Burrows. What can we expect from that series?

The idea for Leslie Burrows came from friend and priest, James Kaptein. He wrote several short stories many years ago and asked if I could possibly use them in a novel. I liked the concept so much, that I soon wrote the first book. James continued to provide the ideas for the following books and for his assistance; I dedicated the entire series to him. There are four books, each becoming more adventurous as they go. It has been one of my favorite teen books to write so far.

The next book to the Leslie Burrow series comes out January 15th. What can you tell us about it?

The Leslie books have a main concept-to rescue her beloved prince and live happily ever after. The following blurbs are from the individual novels.

Book One: Quest for the Magic Stones

Leslie Burrows, a young woman impoverished and living in a small cottage with her mother, is delighted when she attends her first royal ball and meets Prince Peter, the man of her dreams.

But the prince has a nasty secret and desperately needs her help. Leslie must complete a quest and defeat a wicked sorcerer to break the spell bestowed upon her beloved. She decides to risk her life and face the dangers that linger in the Spirited Forest.

Can love conquer all, or will evil prevail?

Book Two: Mystery of the Universe

In this next great adventure, Leslie Burrows is sent on a mission to save the Enchanted Land from a powerful force that is threatening to destroy the universe.

With the help of a warrior companion, a mysterious cat and a magical dagger, she must reach the black hole in time and save mankind. Can Leslie succeed in her quest, or will she face the perils of doom?

Book Three: The Secret Weapon

In the third installment of Leslie Burrows, we find the young girl facing the most harrowing adventure of all. With a deadly weapon in her procession, she must journey to a dangerous castle and put a stop to its evil force.

With Warc, king of the dwarves as a travel companion, they are put to the test. The two embark on a wild adventure in hopes of reaching the secret dungeon in time. Will darkness of the dagger overpower and corrupt them? Only they can control their fate.

The last book, The Final Conquest, will be released by Devine Destinies this spring.

You have two different Christmas novels, Finding Mrs. Claus and Star Gazer. What inspired you to write a story with a Christmas theme?

My youngest son Michael inspired me to write the novel, Finding Mrs. Claus. He thought it would be fun to write a story about Santa that showed him in his early years, before he became jolly and generous. Kris Kringle has to discover the true meaning of Christmas and find a Mrs. Claus to make the magic come alive. The story was fun to write and has a twist from the regular Christmas books.

My publisher also requested a short story for Devine Destinies. This gave me the opportunity to write this in time for the holidays.

As for the story, Star Gazer, I wanted to write a more serious, yet inspirational Christmas book that dealt with poverty and hope. It is written from two different points of view, both wishing for something to fulfill their lives.

When did you know that you wanted to be a writer? Was your family and friends supportive?

I knew at an early age that I wanted to be a writer. My brother Josh and I spent countless hours writing and illustrating our own books. When I was a teenage, I attempted to write a novel for Harlequin and typed it on an old typewriter. At that time, I was a kid with a dream.

My family and friends always supported my writing. In fact, my sister Brenda edited my work in the early years. She never complained and helped me a great deal with grammar and spelling. Later in life, my husband Jerry provided me with book ideas. When I have writer’s block, he still offers his support and guidance.

What or who influenced you the most in your writing career?

I was influenced in the early years by my siblings, Brenda, Cheryl and Josh. They always encouraged me to write and follow my dreams. I also have many friends who support my work. I have to give credit to my mother-in-law, Joyce. She is one of my biggest fans. My husband Jerry encourages me to write on a daily basis. There were several times in my life when I was ready to give up, but with his positive attitude, I continued. I’m happy I did!

Many of our viewers are aspiring writers. Do you have any writing tips to pass along?

The most important advice I can give to aspiring writers is don’t give up. Every rejection letter brings you one step closer to an acceptance. Throughout my writing career, I had to learn to handle criticism and rejection. It wasn’t the easiest to endure, but I knew it was required to make it in this business. The responses gave me the opportunity and determination to hone my craft.

What is next for you? Can you share anything regarding your current work in progress?

I’m currently rewriting the Keidon series that I originally wrote for Extasy Books. The new version will be available with Devine Destinies this summer. It will be one epic saga featuring the entire trilogy. This spring, I have my first picture book coming out with Devine Destinies. There is also a western novel in my future.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

I think writing is a blessing in my life. It helps me relax and deal with stress. This career gives me the opportunity to express my feelings and use my creativity. I love the idea of controlling the fate of my characters, each story unique in its own way. I encourage new writers to follow their hearts and never let anyone steal your dream. If you have a story, tell it. The world awaits your great works!

Shannon and her publisher are giving away a copy of Star Gazer. For more details on how to enter, please see this post. The contest ends January 30th.