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Creative Spotlight on Author Joanna Vander Vlugt
In this post, Creative Spotlight on Author Joanna Vander Vlugt, we look into a few more questions not discussed in the live. This author is truly amazing and has excellent work available. Show her some love and snag one of her books. Who would have known there are such huge differences in the way trials run in Canada?
Tell our readers briefly about yourself.
My name is Joanna Vander Vlugt. The Unravelling, is my debut novel, featuring the sister duo, Jade and Sage. This novel was a Canadian Book Club Awards finalist as well as its sequel, Dealer’s Child. I draw upon my 13 years’ experience working in the prosecutor’s office and 10 years working in the Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner for inspiration for my novels. I have just finished the third novel in the series, Spy Girls.
My motorcycle illustrations have been purchased world-wide and my Woman Empowered motorcycle art series has been featured in on-line art and motorcycle magazines. In 2006 my short mysteries Egyptian Queen and The Parrot and Wild Mushroom Stuffing were published in the Crime Writers of Canada mystery anthologies. My personal essay, No Beatles Reunion was published in the Dropped Threads 3: Beyond the Small Circle anthology. I'm proud of my podcast JCV Art Studio and the many artists and authors I've interviewed. My website www.joannavandervlugt.com
Can you tell us about your most recent release? Album? Song? Art piece? Etc.?
I'm about to launch my first ezine, e-magazine, SAM Magazine. It's an online magazine which features excerpts from my podcast interviews, as well as short stories. It also features artists.
What inspires you?
I'm a creative soul, so if I'm not writing, I'm creating art or I'm working on my magazine. I would have to say that creating the best story possible is my passion.
What is your creative work routine like? Do you balance it with another job?
I am fortunate to be retired after working 33 years for the provincial government. I have adopted my previous office routine to my writing routine, except I'm not rushed when walking the dogs in the morning.
Do you plan out your creations? What is your creative process like?
I'm not a plotter when it comes to my novels. My creative times are in the morning or late at night. The afternoon is the best time to create art, or work on an art commission.
Do you have a self-care routine, or do you want to have one? What do you do or wish that you did to take care of your mental health?
I used to be a personal trainer. I believe physical exercise is a must for my mental health. I like running first thing in the morning, or working out with weights.
What is your favorite creation thus far?
The third book in the Jade & Sage Series, Spy Girls, which I just finished and will be released March 2024.
Do you have a character that is your favorite over others you've written into creation?
It's the heroine in my urban fantasy novel, which I'm just starting. That heroine is a nurse and she travels back in time.
Are there any recurring themes in your work?
Hope. I can write a heavy, dark novel, but at the end of that book, there will always be a feeling of hope.
What does success look like to you, considering your creative passion?
Success is hard to measure. It's having a neighbour come up to me and say, "when's your next book coming out." It's seeing that in the state of Iowa, I have a loyal following of listeners to my podcast. It's seeing that people in California, Virginia, Vermont, Alabama and Iowa listen to my podcast.
What has been one of the biggest lessons you've learned since starting this journey?
Do not compare my success with the success of other authors. Do not compare. We are each on different writing journeys. That's a hard lesson.
What advice would you share with new or aspiring authors/singers/artists/etc?
Do not compare your success. Be appreciative of the gift you have and that you have the opportunity to pursue that gift in the safety of your home.
Where do you get your ideas for world-building?
From working at the prosecutor's office. Also, with the time travel, being able to share what life was like in 70s.
What genre do you prefer to read?
Thriller, mystery, time travel, and little paranormal all mixed with a little romance.
What hobbies do you have?
Gardening, running, strength training.
Do you have any outside experiences that influenced your work?
Yes, I'm working on a short story, and for 3 months I worked in a bakery.
Where can our viewers/readers/listeners find you and your work?