I spread out my notes, stretch out my fingers, turn on the computer and my lengthy playlist of fast-paced instrumental music. As I visualize what is occurring in each scene, I make my characters come to life.
Sheri McLaughlin – 3 September 2023
The Back Flap
The last book in the Mercy Trilogy. It’s a speculative fiction novel that pairs science fiction with political suspense.
A former president’s daughter attends an accounting symposium in Fort Lauderdale. She is reported missing after failing to respond to text messages. FBI Agent Ann Vern and Secret Service Agent Steve Flex put their heads together to search for clues.
In the field of cryonics, Professor Reid is on the verge of a scientific breakthrough. Project F-12 is all about research to find a cure for Parkinson’s Disease, but reanimating the dead could be considered unethical.
Agents Flex and Vern fear there may be another terror threat on U.S. soil. There may be a loophole in security protocols which could put someone in danger.
About the book
What is the book about?
Quantum Mercy, Reanimating the Dead, is the last book of the Mercy Trilogy. It is a speculative fiction story pairing political suspense with science fiction. Professor Reid’s on the verge of a breakthrough, however, resurrecting dead people might be considered unethical.
When did you start writing the book?
Over two years ago, around the time I was plotting out Book #2 of the trilogy (Mercy on the Trail).
How long did it take you to write it?
Over a year
Where did you get the idea from?
I was interested in the research that Alcor had been doing in the field of cryonics. They had been storing deceased humans in cryogenic dewars. It was fascinating to learn what might be in our near future.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
Yes, but I overcame those struggles when I immersed myself in the research that was necessary to bring this novel to fruition.
What came easily?
The characters, the dramatic scenes, the emotional turmoil, and making it all fit in with Books 1 & 2.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
Fictitious, although I added a couple of real world characters, making the names different, in Book #3 (Quantum Mercy).
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
Yes, I love to read all sorts of books. Some of my favorite authors include James Patterson, Colleen Hoover, Brenda Novak, Viola Shipman, John Grisham, and Stephen King.
Do you have a target reader?
I usually target whatever I’m writing toward my husband. It must be interesting and captivating. Next in line, my mother who loves to read. She is very picky with what she likes in a book and she won’t hesitate to voice her honest opinions.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so, can you please describe it?
Yes, I close my door and silence my phone to avoid distractions. Then I spread out my notes, stretch out my fingers, turn on the computer and my lengthy playlist of fast-paced instrumental music. As I visualize what is occurring in each scene, I make my characters come to life.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
Yes. Sometimes I create multiple, detailed outlines as the story unfolds.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
Both. I edit as I go and review numerous times once I’ve completed.
Did you hire a professional editor?
No. I’ve always done my own editing. Although, my husband has helped me edit during the pandemic.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Yes, I listen to instrumental New Age or classical music when I write.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
No, I have not. Not yet anyway.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
I chose to be a self-published indie author after getting price quotes from hybrid publishing agencies. Since I’m not in a big hurry, I figured I’d learn as I go.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
The covers of all my books were designed by me.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
Yes, reaching out to local and nationwide platforms, like social media. I have even been invited to discuss my newest release, Quantum Mercy on local radio. Monthly newsletters are gaining popularity on my website. I blog frequently about topics of interest.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Never give up on your dreams. Write because you enjoy it, not for fame or fortune.
About You
What would you like readers to know about you?
Unwavering persistence and stubborn resilience are two of my best, yet annoying qualities.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on narrating the audiobook version of Quantum Mercy.
End of Interview:
For more from Sheri McLaughlin visit her website and follow her on Facebook and Twitter.