Q & A with author Lisa Kessler and Susan J. Farese of SJF Communications

SJF: In a nutshell, tell us about your book or written piece.
LK: I write paranormal romance novels and horror short stories. I love to weave paranormal elements into our world, and my goal is to convince the reader not only to suspend their disbelief, but maybe even consider that immortals do actually live in La Jolla!

SJF: What has your experience been as a writer in San Diego?
LK: Writing is a solitary job, but there are vibrant groups and associations for writers if you seek them out. I was lucky to discover the San Diego chapter of the Romance Writers of America early on in my journey, and they not only helped me hone my craft, but prepared me for the next step of submitting my work. I also discovered San Diego Writers, Ink, and I enjoy connecting and working with writers from all backgrounds.

SJF: How has storytelling influenced your life?
LK: I grew up an only child in the country with no friends in walking distance, so my ability to make things up and pretend was honed at a young age. Since then, I can’t help but people watch and dream up a story for each person I see. I think “what if” is hardwired into your soul if you’re a writer.

SJF: If you had a magic wand, what kind of opportunities would be available to writers in San Diego?
LK: I wish there were more venues for live readings. I think it’s magical to hear an author read their story and hear the characters speak the way the author pictured it as they wrote the book. It would be cool to have a venue that had not only published authors, but also maybe an hour or two for newer writers to share and get reader feedback; that would be empowering too.

SJF: What are you excited about when it comes to participating in the inaugural San Diego Writers Festival?
LK: I always leave inspired to write after spending a day talking about the craft with others. I hope that I can inspire that same passion in the writers who attend the festival. The ultimate goal is to get those words on the page.

SJF: What advice would you give to a new writer in San Diego?
LK: Find your tribe! Publishing is a rough business and if you can find a group of writers willing to support each other, whether it’s a critique group or a writer’s association or a learning community, go join and get involved. I never would have found my first publisher if it weren’t for my involvement in Romance Writers of America, and the friends I made there still help me keep my sanity and buoy me when things get tough.

SJF: Many thanks, Lisa!

Learn More about Lisa Kessler 
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Learn More about Susan J. Farese of SJF Communications