Friday, February 20, 2015

Author Interview - LaToya Murchison


Today, I'm interviewing the lovely, LaToya Murchison. She has a wonderful spirit and I hope you'll enjoy learning about her and her book!!


Author LaToya Murchison

"Writing allowed me to speak freely without any restraints." 


AT: Where are you from? Where do you live now?
LM: I was born and raised in Southern Pines, NC which is where I still live now. 

AT:  Did you always know you wanted to be a writer?
LM: Yes as a child I always kept a journal of what I felt and experienced every day. Writing has always been therapeutic to me because they were my own personal thoughts that I did not have to share with anyone.  Writing allowed me to speak freely without any restraints. 

AT: I feel the same way about writing. When did you first start writing and when did you finish your first book?
LM: My passion for writing grew during a high school English class were I started writing poetry. I found writing allowed me to be creative and discovered my interest in becoming a published author. I published my first book on November 21, 2014.

AT: Well hello, fellow poet! How did you choose the genre you write in?
LM: Inspiring and helping other has always been my passion and I believe it to be the purpose God has for my life.  What better way to inspire others then share the word of God with them?

AT: Amen! Where do you get your ideas?
LM: I get my writing ideas from listening to others and I write from personal experience. I believe that when you write from experience it allows you to connect more with your readers.

AT: I agree! Name one book that you would categorize as a life changing read.
LM: The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For? By Rick Warren. I have to say that much of it certainly is motivating, moving and helpful. I believe that – If applied correctly the principles presented in this book can definitely be life-changing.

AT: Wonderful choice! Who is your favorite author?
LM: I love to read various others but some of my favorites are: Eric Jerome Dickey, Terry McMillan, Maya Angelou, Carl Weber, Leah-Hill McNair, Stormie Omartian, Adam Houge, Joyce Meyers, and Elizabeth George.  If I had to choose just one of them it would be Maya Angelou because I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is the first book I read in high school. She was an awesome writer and her stories dealt with real life issues.

AT: Name one book you wish you’d written.
LM: I wish I had written I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings because it touches the hearts of everyone that reads it. It shows us the importance of loving ourselves, accepting the kindness of other and why we must always hold on to our faith.

AT: Yes, it is a wonderful book. Now, tell us about your latest book.



LM: 

Here's an excerpt from my book, A Praying Heart, which is a prayer journal: 

Prayer is one of the simplest ways to praise and worship God with your whole heart. When you are in prayer, you surrender yourself: mind, body, and soul. Prayer should never be vain repetitions because you feel it is something you are required to do.  Praying to God does not require a lot of words, and you should allow your heart and the spirit of God to lead you.

Personal prayer should be done in secret and remain between you and God. Prayer can take place anywhere, even during those times when you cannot speak it out loud. Developing your prayer life opens up the door for God to speak into any situation. It is my prayer that as you read this prayer journal each day, it will restore your faith in the power of praying to God.

Get your copy today!!
KINDLE AND PAPERBACK
BARNES AND NOBLE


AT: Love the excerpt! How can readers connect with you?
LM: 
Author Website: http://www.latoyamurchison.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latoyamwrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LaToyaauthor
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/authorlatoyam
Instagram: http://instagram.com/authorlatoyam
Blogger: http://authorlatoyamurchison.blogspot.com
Amazon Author Page: www.amazon.com/author/latoyamurchison


AT: What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
LM: To all the aspiring authors I would say never stop writing and never give up on your dreams. It’s important to write from the heart and not just about what you feel others expect. A great writer also knows their audience.  Connect with other writers who can help guide you and that will share their experiences with you.


AT: Great advice!! Thanks for sharing with us, LaToya!!

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