Interview with Author Joanne Troppello

Joanne Troppello, who celebrated the release of her second novel, inspirational romance Mr. Shipley’s Governess, this week stopped off to give her views on books and relating to her fellow authors.

What books have influenced your life most?

In my personal life, the Bible is the book that has most influenced my life. In my writing, the classic works of Jane Austen and the contemporary works of Karen Kingsbury have most influenced my life. Of course, both authors are totally different, but they have affected my writing style. My current release, Mr. Shipley’s Governess, is a “modern day classic,” if I can claim that phrase and this is in part, due to my affinity for Austen’s writing style and plot lines. My modern day influence is Ms. Kingsbury because she takes an honest look at issues in family life and relationships and creates compelling characters that her readers can easily relate to.

What book are you reading now?

I love romance books, but I am also a mystery buff. My first book, Shadowed Remembrances is a police procedural / mystery novel. Currently, I am reading the fourth book, Breaker’s Reef in the Cape Refuge mystery series by Terri Blackstock. I really enjoy Ms. Blackstock’s detailed, yet concise writing style and her plot lines are very engaging and you can’t wait to finish reading.

How does your family feel about your writing career?

My family is very supportive. I have an awesome husband, who has supported my writing career since my first book was released during our engagement year. He puts up with my long nights of typing away on my laptop. He is my biggest fan; although, he has huge competition in that area with my sister, Lori, who is a great support. She is even planning some book signings for me. My parents and in-laws and whole extended family and my friends are so supportive and have been spreading the word about my books.

What did you learn from writing your book?

I learned a lot from writing my second book, Mr. Shipley’s Governess, especially since I had a great editor, Tracie Wise. She helped me see certain issues I was having with POV shifts and relying too much on passive voice, rather than active voice. I took her wonderful suggestions to heart and did a massive overhaul in my second editing of the manuscript. Everything she mentioned is still forefront in my mind to this day and when I am working on current WIP’s, I don’t have those issues anymore.

How important is the support and friendship of other writers?

I feel that having friendships with other writers is of paramount importance. Not only do you provide support for each other, when writers work well together, they can help each other brand their names and sell more books. I have found so much support from my fellow Wild Horse Press authors and I love how everyone wants to see us all succeed as a group.

Thanks, Joanne!