As a child of the 70’s, Julie’s writing career began on a Smith Corona typewriter, where she hammered out terrible short stories about dog catchers and homicidal identical twins who conspire to get away with murder.
Julie knows that success as a writer is a goal no one can achieve alone, which is why she is actively involved in the writing community—attending conferences and workshops, meeting with fellow SCBWI members for a monthly critique group, and holding various committee positions for YARWA. While her sons have already flown the coop, Julie and her husband still occupy their own slice of paradise in South Florida.
You have an awesome new book out called ROSIE GIRL. Can you tell us about it?How you came up with the idea?
Psychological suspense with an unexpected twist! For me, a story unfolds slowly and unpredictably, so the idea took shape over time.
Tell us about your experience getting into publishing. How long did it take you?
Can “forever” be my answer? Because that’s what it feels like. I queried my first novel about fourteen years ago.
What writing advice do you have for someone trying to breakout in the market?
Study the craft of novel writing. Read every book you can, in multiple genres. Network with other writers. And this was the hardest part for me: Share your writing. It’s the only way you’ll really get a sense of how it appeals (or doesn’t) to others.
When you’re not writing, what do you enjoy doing?
Anything outside! (Although I do write outside, too, so I guess I should give another answer.) Yoga, reading, long walks with my husband, and lounging in the pool or ocean when the water is warm enough.
Do you listen to music when you write, if so, what’s your playlist like?
Never! Need it fairly quiet to work.
Everyone writes about people they know. Who shows up in your books over and over?
The bad boy!
What are you working on now?
A murder mystery!
Where can we find out more about you and your new book?
http://www.julieshepard.net
Throwing Up Words 