The Interview - Sarah Pekkanen
How do you come up with ideas for your stories?
My ideas often come from everyday observations, a stray thought, or a “what if” scenario. Sometimes it’s a news article, a conversation, or a personal experience that sparks something in me. Inspiration can come from the most unexpected places.
Do you outline your books before writing, or do you let the story unfold naturally?
I prefer a hybrid approach. I start with a general outline of major plot points, but I let the story and characters evolve naturally. Some of the best twists and turns come when I allow myself to deviate from the plan.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced as an author?
One of the biggest challenges is staying disciplined. Writing is a solitary and often demanding process, and it can be easy to get discouraged. There’s also the challenge of balancing creativity with the business side of publishing.
What role does research play in your writing process?
Research is crucial, especially when writing historical fiction or including details about cultures, professions, or places I’m less familiar with. I want to make sure the world I’m creating feels authentic, so I spend a lot of time ensuring that the details are accurate.
How do you create tension or suspense in your stories?
Tension and suspense come from a combination of pacing, foreshadowing, and emotional stakes. I like to keep the reader guessing by introducing small mysteries, withholding information, and keeping the characters in situations where the stakes are constantly rising.
Do you ever write scenes or characters based on real people or events?
Yes and no. While I draw inspiration from real life, I never write a character or event that’s a direct reflection of reality. I blend different traits or situations and often exaggerate them to fit the fictional narrative.
What is your editing process like?
Editing is where the real magic happens. I usually go through several rounds, starting with a structural edit to ensure the story flows well, followed by line edits for clarity and language. I also rely on beta readers and editors for outside perspectives.
Do you listen to music while you write?
Absolutely! I often create playlists tailored to the mood of the scene or story I’m working on. Sometimes the music is instrumental, and other times it’s lyrical. It helps me get into the right emotional state for writing.
What motivates you to keep writing, even on difficult days?
The love for storytelling is what keeps me going. Even on tough days, I remind myself that the hard work will pay off. I also think about the readers who might connect with my story, and that’s a huge motivator.
How do you balance writing with the rest of your life?
It’s a constant juggling act. I try to set aside dedicated writing time each day, but I also allow flexibility. Life happens, and some days writing takes a backseat, but I always try to come back to it with renewed focus.