Interview & Giveaway with Crossroads author Mary Ting

Synopsis of Crossroads from Goodreads -  On the same night of her friend’s tragic death, Claudia Emerson encounters another world, Crossroads, through her dream. There, she learns about a mix breed of angels and humans, who possess supernatural powers. Among those with these powers, lies evil, known as the fallen. Mystified by her ability to enter this place called Crossroads, certain that the fallen will be after her, she is assigned a guardian angel named Michael. Aden, the fallen leader, is convinced that Claudia holds the key to help destroy Crossroads. Her dream becomes a nightmare as more secrets are revealed, about who she really is, and the true identities of the people she loves most.

Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule do this interview today.

Thank you for having me and for being a part of the blog tour. I would like to thank Jen Howell at Late Bloomers for setting everything up.

 How did you know you wanted to be a writer? What age where you ?
Writing a novel did not even cross my mind. Even while I was writing Crossroads, I didn’t even think to publish it because I didn’t think I had much to say. After I had finished my first draft, I asked my friend to read it. She loved it and told me that I needed to publish it, after I fix it up of course. So I should say that I was serious about writing about a year ago.

 What made you write Crossroads??
 I started writing Crossroads because it was a way for me to heal the loss of my grandmother—who Gamma is based on in the story. Once I started writing, I stopped crying. Also, I knew that Twilight was based on Meyer’s dream so I based Crossroads from a dream I had in high school so she inspired me.

.Are you an outliner plotter or just go with flow type writer? What kind of advice can you give aspiring writers?
I would have to say that I'm a just go with the flow type. Crossroads story is based on many of my experiences. I won’t explain because I may give too much information. So I just wrote about things I did. So, I guess I can say that I let my fingers do the thinking…lol!!! Advice to the aspiring writers-Get all your thoughts down before you forget. Ask friends to read your draft and get feedbacks. But most importantly, believe that you can!

 Do you listen to music or have a favorite food that you have to have while you are writing?
I need peace and quiet when I write; however, music inspires me too. Listed are few songs that tugged at my heart:  With You by Chris Brown, Angel by Sarah McLachlan, Hero by Enrique Iglesias, Sometimes When We Touch by Dan Hill, Open Arms by Journey, and The Way I Loved You by Selena Gomez.I don’t need to be eating anything when I write, but I LOVE Giant Chewy Sweet Tarts.  I can eat several packs in one sitting. Yum!!!

 Is there anything else in the works?
I am currently working on the sequel. I have another series started, but it’s so difficult to find time.Is there anything else you would like to add?I took on a journey not knowing how rewarding it would be for me. I’ve meet so many wonderful people from all over the world through facebook, goodreads and blog sites.  I’ve made everlasting friendship where friendship knows no boundaries.  And I have to thank my grandmother who continues to watch over me from Heaven.      
For the readers of this book, fly with me through this incredible journey.  Fall in love with the characters as much as I did and make Crossroads your place to be.  Thank you for your support.

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Here is a little bit about Mary Ting  

Mary Ting resides in Southern California with her husband and two children. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry.  Writing Crossroads was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother.  It was inspired by a dream she once had as a young girl.


I am Also Giving away a Signed Crossroads Book to one lucky Winner.
Just Fill out the Form below.. The contest will end on 10/21/11