By the Sylphira_Community:

     Congratulations on your award! How does it feel to be recognized for your work on Wattpad?

     Thank you, it feels great! This is actually the second version of my original blurb, and I'm really happy with how it's turned out, and winning this award lets me know that my readers feel the same way.

     Can you tell us a little about your winning book? What inspired you to write it? What was the most challenging part of writing your book, and how did you overcome it?

     My winning book is titled "Always Faithful", and it's about a staff sergeant in the Marine Corps who tries to solve her murder after she is killed in a "training accident" with the help of her fiancé and the woman who received her heart after she needed a transplant. It is categorized as a Paranormal Crime-Romance, and it is rated Mature, so it isn't for all audiences.

     I was inspired by my favorite locations in Southern California, as well as several friends and family members who passed unexpectedly. Lyla Lane is named after one of these people.

     Because this is my first attempt at an original, full-length novel, it was difficult for me to brainstorm enough of the plot so I could start writing. And I initially struggled with the Point-Of-View because there are so many characters in play, which is why I am currently rewriting the story in a different format.

     How do you develop your characters and plot? Do you have a specific process or routine?

     I wouldn't call it a routine, but I typically start with a base foundation for my characters when the idea comes to me, then slowly work up from there, further developing their traits as the plot grows.

     What role does reader feedback on Wattpad play in your writing process?

     So far, reader feedback hasn't influenced my writing process too much, since I had started writing most of my stories before joining Wattpad, but their support is always appreciated and helps to motivate me.

     Were there any particular moments or feedback that stood out to you during the writing and publishing of your book?

     For "Always Faithful" specifically, I think winning first place in the Mystery Romance category of the Hot and Bothered Awards by gremlinsbookstash really made me realize that this could go somewhere, and helped affirm my knack for writing.

     How do you balance maintaining originality while catering to the preferences of Wattpad readers?

     While I haven't really gotten feedback from my readers on what they would like to see plot-wise, I have shortened both my paragraphs and chapters so they are more reader-friendly.

     What are your favorite genres to read and write, and why?

     My favorite genres to read are typically science fiction, or anything to deal with the paranormal and supernatural, with hints of romance. As for writing, I typically write works of fanfiction (i.e. Star Wars, Phantom of the Opera, and Harry Potter), occasionally dabble in poetry, and original work(s) that balance plot, action, and romance.

     How do you handle writer's block or moments of low inspiration?

     Thanks to my overactive imagination, I rarely have writer's block, but when I get stuck or am not motivated to write a particular story, I work on another one of my works because it helps keep my mind active. I will also listen to music, which often helps to inspire the continuation of my current stories, and sometimes even helps me come up with an entirely new plot.

     Can you share any tips for aspiring writers on Wattpad who hope to achieve the same level of success?

     To any new or aspiring writers, write what you love to write about. Enjoy it. If you aren't inspired by what you're writing, it will show in your work. Don't try to force ideas if you're stuck, because they won't come, and you'll frustrate yourself. As for writing itself, though this may seem obvious, always make sure you punctuate your stories correctly and try to keep your grammatical errors to a minimum, otherwise it may become difficult for readers to enjoy your story.

     What advice would you give to writers struggling with self-doubt or negative feedback?

     For writers struggling with self-doubt or negative feedback, remember that your readers' opinions are subjective. Not everyone will like your story, but that doesn't mean your story is bad. It just means that it wasn't to that reader's particular taste. Also, remember that you're writing for you, and though we all want people to enjoy our work, you have to remember that as long as you like what you're writing, that's what matters.

     When it comes to constructive criticism, you need to keep in mind that the person reviewing, editing, or offering constructive criticism is trying to help you improve your work. As long as the criticism is truly constructive and offers advice, then that person is trying to help.

     How do you promote your work on Wattpad and beyond to reach a larger audience?

     When I first joined Wattpad, I initially promoted my work on the pages of the people I was following, which helped me build a base-following, though there was one person who didn't appreciate me posting on their page, which I understand. After that, I announced chapter updates and entered competitions to gain exposure for my stories, as well as participating in read-for-reads with other authors.

     Because I've built a loyal following, I haven't had to promote my stories quite as much, though I still announce new chapters and awards I've won to keep my followers and readers updated, and I've recently joined Inkspired to reach a larger audience outside of Wattpad.

     What are your future plans? Are you working on any new projects or books?

     As of right now, I have nine stories I am currently working on, not including my oneshot or poetry collections. Four of these stories make up portions of the three book series I'm currently writing. One is a Mandalorian Series, another is the Winter Series (Marvel), and a third is the Love Never Dies Trilogy (Phantom of the Opera).

     How has winning this award impacted your writing career and personal life?

     I think I can speak for any author when I say that having your writing acknowledged in an award helps boost your confidence and encourages you to continue writing because it affirms your talent.

     Can you share a memorable experience or interaction with one of your readers?

     I don't have one particular experience or interaction, but it's always fun when I come across an author I haven't met before and discover they enjoy the same fandom(s) as I do. And I always enjoy reading comments left on my stories, especially if they're left by someone who appreciates that particular fandom.

     How do you stay motivated and disciplined in your writing routine?

     I actually try to avoid setting a writing schedule for myself because I find that having a due date often gives me writer's block, and I think that's due to the stress of being forced to write a chapter in a specific amount of time.

     As for motivation, I typically don't have a problem finding it, but if I do, I give that particular story a break and move on to something else until the inspiration returns to me.

     What was your initial reaction when you found out you won the award?

     My initial reaction was surprise, as it usually tends to be, because there are so many amazing authors out there. Then, of course, happiness.

     How has the Wattpad community influenced your writing journey?

     The Wattpad community has introduced me to so many incredible authors and people, and I've made a countless number of friends during my eight months here. I've found people who enjoy the same fandoms I do, and it's always amazing to hear what those people have to say about my work, especially if they're familiar with what I'm writing about.

     I've also received helpful feedback on my stories, which is much appreciated, and it's so rewarding to support my fellow writers by reading, commenting, and voting on their work.

     Do you collaborate with other writers on Wattpad? If so, how has that experience been?

     I plan on eventually creating a oneshot book with my sister-from-another-mister _myhobbyisreading_, as well as maybe creating a Star Wars-themed competition with the incredibly talented AutumnsWhisper, who I'm honored to call my dear friend.

     I've also worked as an editor for multiple authors here on Wattpad, and it's a pleasure to support them.

     What message do you hope readers take away from your book?

     All of my stories feature original characters who have been through hell and back, and the majority of them are powerful women. I hope my readers will be able to see themselves in my characters and realize that, despite whatever struggles they have or will face, they can overcome them and grow stronger from their experiences.

     How do you incorporate feedback from your readers into your writing?

     As I've previously said, feedback hasn't played a huge role in my writing, but I have shortened my paragraphs and chapters to make my stories less straining on the eyes.

     What are the main themes or messages you try to convey through your stories?

     For all of my stories, I try to convey that you're much stronger than you know, but it's okay to ask for help when you need it, and you can lean on the strength of those around you. I also promote women empowerment and support for the LGBTQ+ community, of which I am a member. And finally, if you find someone you love, fight for it. It doesn't matter who they are or what they look like, if you love them, you fight for that love.

     Have you faced any significant obstacles in your writing career, and how did you overcome them?

     I think the hardest obstacle I've faced in my writing career was when one of my files became corrupted, and I lost three chapters (sixty pages worth) of the second book in my Mandalorian Series, setting me back at square one. I had to step away from that story for several months because of how angry I'd get when I tried to start working on it again. Eventually, I was able to come back to it with a fresh mindset, and I rewrote the chapters I'd lost.

     What do you think sets your work apart from other stories in your genre on Wattpad?

     I like to think my attention to detail, as well as the characters I create and emotionally-charged plot lines help draw readers to my stories. I'd also like to think that, for my works of fanfiction, readers will find my takes on the events in certain fandoms intriguing and original.

     How do you think Wattpad has changed the landscape of publishing and writing for new authors?

     I think Wattpad has given aspiring authors the chance to get their stories seen when they may not have been, otherwise. Obviously, it doesn't offer instant fame, but as you build a community around your stories and enter the larger awards (i.e. the Wattys), your chance of getting noticed grows.

     Do you have any plans to publish your work outside of Wattpad, such as through traditional publishing or self-publishing?

     Not at the moment, though I'd like to eventually publish "Always Faithful", as it's my only original work, so far. I'd also love to take some of the ideas expressed in my works of fanfiction to their respective companies and hopefully help give them new ideas or even dabble in screenwriting.

     How do you manage your time between writing and other commitments?

     I always try to set some time aside for myself so I can write, but because I don't have a writing schedule, it isn't a huge deal if I don't get the chance to write. This being the case, I do try to write at least a little bit every day, otherwise my overactive imagination goes wild.

     Finally, is there anything you would like to say to your readers and supporters?

     To all of my readers and supporters, I would like to say thank you. Your love and support means everything to me, whether just by checking in, or faithfully reading new chapters of my works. I always enjoy looking through your comments, as well as replying to them and starting a whole new conversation, and your enthusiasm for my writing pushes me to keep doing so. I love each and every one of you, and if you EVER feel like you're not enough, know that I truly and deeply appreciate you.

     Lots of love, now and always, Melia K.