Interview with Mya O’Malley, author of Naomi

What can you tell us about your new release, Naomi?

Naomi is a paranormal mystery sprinkled with a touch of romance. It is the sequel/companion novel to Maggie. Naomi could be read as a standalone novel, but I feel it’s more enjoyable to get the background story from my paranormal book, Maggie, which precedes this story.

Which books would we be surprised to find on your shelves?

I have such an eclectic collection of books on my shelf and on my TBR list right now.  In addition to non –fiction interests, right now I’m loving Liane Moriarty, Ruth Ware and Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke.  Since I’m a teacher, I also have some of my old textbooks and literature pertaining to education.

You’re hosting a literary dinner party. Which three writers are invited?

Liane Moriarty- I’d love to pick her brain about some of her books, such as What Alice Forgot. I loved that book, it evoked so many emotions. I felt I could relate so well to her female characters.

I think I’d have to invite Nicholas Sparks because he writes such heartbreaking romances. I’d love to speak with him about the process of transforming his books into screenplays.

Lastly, I’d ask James Patterson because of my love for mysteries and thrillers. I’ve read almost all of his books and have followed his career for so many years. I’d love to hear about all of his experiences in the industry and how the process of writing and publishing has changed throughout the years.

I think the above guests would make for a very interesting dinner!

What’s your favorite thing about writing?

I suppose my favorite thing about writing would be the fact that I get to share my ideas and all that goes on in my imagination with readers. I like the fact that anything can happen and that I’m creating something brand new that never existed before.

I also feel that writing can be therapeutic and relaxing.  Time seriously flies when I sit down to write and get lost in whatever world I’m creating.

Seeing my book go from ideas in my mind, to getting those thoughts out on paper for anyone in the world to enjoy still amazes me.

Another exciting aspect of writing novels is having a voice in designing my covers.  I’m like a kid on Christmas when it comes to seeing my book covers come alive.

Every single time.

BAM. You’re a superhero. What’s your superpower?

Ooh- I love this question.  I would love to have the power to heal others. Just think how amazing that would be. I would also love to have the ability to transport into time and space in a moment’s notice.

So many possibilities.

How do you like to spend a rainy day?

That’s easy.  I would read, write, watch a favorite movie and work out on my elliptical with some of my favorite music to keep me motivated. Of course spending time with friends and family would be part of my rainy day plans as well.

What scene in Naomi was your favorite to write?

I think everything that leads up to the ending. Without giving away too much, I always love surprising my readers with twists and turns. I can’t wait to wrap things up near the end to give my readers that ah ha moment.  I’m hoping I captured that with Naomi.

Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?

There are so many meaningful quotes out there, but one of my favorites is: “You didn’t come this far to only come this far.”

I find this quote to be so motivating and inspiring.  It’s easy to start a dream and then lose sight of it. What’s challenging is the perseverance it takes to keep reaching for your goal to make it a reality.

Mya O’Malley is the author of the new book Naomi. 

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