Trina Jacobs has been writing stories since she was a little girl. She lives in Collinsville, OK with her husband, three dogs, a cat, and a horse.
How long have you been writing and what got you started?
I’ve been writing since I was 7 or eight years old. I always loved to read, so it seemed to want to write, too.
What is the best piece of advice you have for new writers?
My best advice for new writers is read a lot. Read the good, the bad, and the ugly. Get an idea of what works and what doesn’t.
What is your favorite type of fiction and who are your favorite authors?
I especially love urban fantasy. It’s like out world, but not quite! My favorite authors include Rachel Caine, Stephen King, Mary-Janice Davidson, and Laurel K Hamilton.
Are you an outliner or discovery writer? Or somewhere in between?
I’m somewhere between an outliner and a discovery writer. I need some sort of rough outline, but what comes between the outined sections can go where-ever!
How do you deal with rejections?
I look for for the good rejections, the ones that give a little advice on how to make the story better. If rejected, I look over the story again, maybe make some changes, then send it back out.
Do you ever get criticism from family or friends who don’t understand your passion?
My family and friends think it’s great that I write. I just more of them would buy what I’ve written!
In your opinion, how important is a writing degree or MFA when it comes to achieving success in writing fiction?
I don’t think an MFA or writing degree is important. Anybody from any background can learn to write.
Do you participate in any online or in-person critique or writing groups?
I’m a member of Oklahoma Science Fiction Writers. We critique each others work and support each other in our writing.
What are your writing goals for the next twelve months?
My goal for the next twelve months is to write and submit more.
What book are you reading right now?
Right now I’m re-reading “Undead and Unwed” by Mary-Janice Davidson.
