Author's Interview with Multi-book Author Jordan Rivers.

Before we start with the fascinating world of today’s prolific author, let’s take a moment to introduce the incredible storyteller behind the many captivating tales we’ve enjoyed.

1. Welcome, and thank you for joining us! Can you start by sharing a little about your journey to becoming an author and what sparked your passion for writing?

I started writing when I was a kid. I get these stories in my head and they wouldn't go away until I wrote them down. Once finished, I threw them up in the top of my closet and then another story would come. My mom practically came in with a wheelbarrow once a year and took them to the trash. I don't know why. She just did. Years later when I became a professional writer (which believe it or not was not my intention) she brought up all the books she had thrown away and said she now regretted that because who knew what those stories would have brought money in. 

All my teachers in school kept encouraging me to publish but - like an idiot - I thought of my work as "my art" and it was against nature to sell your art. What can I say? I was young. Trust me, when I started making money writing, that attitude was out the window! One of my college classes required us to write a screenplay and submit it to Hollywood as part of an assignment. I was the only one in class who actually sold their script. From then on - I was hooked! I went on to write for television shows and producers at Republic Pictures, Universal and Warner Bros. 

By then I was a single mom raising two sons and the writing allowed me to stay home as well as support my boys. After I turned 40, Hollywood didn't want me so I returned to writing books. Now, I can't imagine doing anything else.

2. Your body of work spans across various genres and themes. How do you decide which story to tell next, and what inspires each of your unique books?

My brain still coughs up stories like it did when I was young, though not as often. That's why my books span across all these genres because my brain knows no boundries. I've even started doing non-fiction books because I want to help people. Survival for women, Senior exercise, teaching kids about money, etc., these are the thoughts that occupy me now. However, my brain is working on a vampire book. I even have a title started: Lipstick Inc.,

 The Vampires of Indianapolis. Female vampire detectives who only work at night, but they still get the job done.

3. Each book you write seems to explore different aspects of storytelling. Can you give us a peek into your creative process and how you approach crafting such diverse narratives?

Don't be afraid to throw out your writing. Example, when I was writing Witches' Eve, there was a section where I had Esadora turn into a creature and eat the heart out of a local farmer. While it was scary and well-written, it sabotaged the storyline and didn't serve the book. so I had to dump it. You must kill your darlings so the show can go on - so to speak.

4. From thrillers to dramas, you’ve covered a wide range of genres. How do you manage to switch between different styles and maintain your distinctive voice throughout?

I believe that came from writing for Hollywood. Movies and T.V. are completely different writing styles and I often had to switch back and forth as I became a script doctor. That's someone who is handed a script and told - make it funnier - scarier - more action- dramatic - etc., and you only have a few days to do it! And often times, you don't get credit. You get great money, however, so to me it was worth it as I had two kids to feed, clothes and shelter. 

I've written for Miami Vice, Cheers, Hunter, The John Larroquette Show, etc., and have written comedy, thrillers and drama for movies. I personally have written and produced a western, monster movie, a claymation - in fact, my book HIGH DESERT was originally supposed to be a movie with Patrick Stewart attached, but it fell through. So now you just have to read the book!

5. What’s the most challenging part of writing a standalone book as opposed to a series? How do you ensure each book stands out on its own?

That's how all my books start out. Witches' Eve, The Five Suitors, and High Desert are stand-alone books that actually could go on to a part two, but I usually am done with the first one. Now if someone wants to pay me...

6. Your books have resonated with a wide audience. What do you believe is the common thread that ties them together, despite their varied themes and genres?

Fiction books: Strong women, decisive women, moving forward to save themselves instead of waiting for someone else to do it. Also, they are believable since they are suckers for their foibles like everyone else. In this case it's the feelings that they have for the men in their lives. Every sword has a weak spot. As for the non-fiction: Everyone is looking for a way to make their lives better. 

I'm reaching out to be helpful to people. We should help each other and not throw up blockades. The Universe is generous - their is enough to go around. Don't think if you help someone that you are giving up your share. No way! There is enough love, riches, family, etc., for everyone.

7. Can you share an anecdote or a particular moment from your writing journey that stands out as a significant learning experience or a breakthrough?

When my first book was published by ACE Books in New York and I could walk into a bookstore and pull my book off the shelf. That was unbelievably cool!

8. Balancing multiple book projects can be demanding. How do you stay motivated and organized when working on different stories and ideas simultaneously?

Computers have made that a piece of cake. Feel sorry for me back in the day when it was all done on a typewriter and I really did have to stay organized! The benefit of writing multiple projects is that you never suffer from writers' block. 

If you are just not feeling it for one story on a particular day, move on to the next or the next and you usually can grab up the storyline and go for it. It also helps to have a great work ethic. I'm in my office first thing and I work all day. Sure I take breaks and sometimes I grab a game on Pogo.com to help my brain relax, but I don't play games all day and I don't spend a great deal of time on social media.

 LOL. My websites prove that! If I have to run errands or go have lunch with friends, I can do that without having to ask permission from anyone because I'm my own boss. But I always get back to the writing. You don't write, you don't get paid!

9. When you’re not writing, what are some of your hobbies or interests that help you unwind or inspire your creativity?

I love to oil paint. Yeah, Bob Ross and I love our little clouds! I also work with clay. I'm always making monster faces or freaky creatures. That's left over from my filmmaking days when I usually did all the practical effects and make-up because I couldn't afford to hire someone else to do it. I love to fish, fly fish, and target shoot. I play with my dog, miss my Harley, and dream of the Ram truck I'm going to buy. I haven't dated in years but I love bald men.

10. Finally, reflecting on your journey, how do you feel about the impact your books have had on readers? Is there a particular message or feeling you hope your readers take away from your work?

I hope they find them satisfying and that encourages them to write and be creative themselves. And I hope it inspires them to buy more of my books! LOL!

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