Could you tell us about yourself

I am a stay-at-home-mom and a Pastor’s wife. My husband and I have been married for almost fourteen years. Most of my time is spent homeschooling our four kids (with one more on the way!), with the extra time devoted to writing or reading.

What made you write your books?

I currently have two books on the market: ‘Turbulent Hope: The Story of a Young Girl’s Saving Faith’ and ‘When Worlds Collide: An Unexpected Love Story.’ 

Turbulent Hope is a semi-fictional story that is inspired by events from my past. I actually started writing this story more for therapeutic reasons than anything, but over a couple of years it transformed itself into a full-fledged novel! 

When Worlds Collide was my second book. It’s totally fictional and was a story that happened to pop into my head. I graduated from Calvary University in Kansas City, MO with a degree in Biblical Counseling, and this book contains many snippets from various things I learned while earning my degree.

What is the first book you remember reading?

Oh gosh, I read so much as a kid! The one I remember the most was called, ‘Matilda and her family.’ It was a sweet story about a momma cat and her family of kittens. I had two copies and read it over, and over, and over!

What’s your favorite book?

I have SO many books and am an avid reader. It’s almost impossible for me to answer this question. But I do love the classics! A few of my favorites are: Pride & Prejudice, The Man in the Iron Mask and Far From the Madding Crowd

How many hours a day do you write?

It depends on the season. At the moment, I’m on a bit of a writing hiatus. But normally, when I’m in the midst of a story, I spend about 1.5 – 2 hours writing during the week. I often try to take time on the weekends to give my brain a break.

What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

Probably not rushing the story. I usually start out with a general outline of the story and fill in the gaps as I go. Often, once I reach the climax of the story, I’ll be tempted to just pencil something in real quickly to get to the end! I am always learning patience.

How do you celebrate when you finish your book?

I will usually jump up and maybe take a turn around the room (haha!) and then I’ll share a post on my website and/or social media pages announcing the status of the book.

Do you listen to music while you write your books?

I’d love to. Unfortunately it’s too distracting.

Do you try to be more original or give your readers what they want?

A little bit of both. I definitely like to keep all of my own ideas and storyline original, but often I’ll try to think about what readers would like most about the story and I try to keep it from being too predictable.

What kind of research do you do and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

I usually research any areas in the book that I’m not totally sure of. For example, the book I’m currently working on (Wounded Faith) originally started with several chapters containing a court trial. I researched for several hours over multiple days until I was sure how these events play out in real life. Most of my books are fiction, so I am able to take some artistic license in the way things work in the story, but I try to be as realistic as possible.

What part of the book was the most fun to write?

I really enjoy the endings the most. It brings the whole story together and gives me a feeling of satisfaction knowing the characters story is complete.

How did you come up with the title for your book(s)?

I give a lot of thought to my titles. First, I try to think about what message I’m trying to send through my book and then I come up with several creative ways I can say this in just three or four words. I then scour the web to see how many other books have similar titles to make sure mine is not going to get lost in the crowd.

Would you and your main character get along?

Yes, considering most of my main characters are written based on my own personal feelings and opinions!

Which of the characters in your book (s) do you relate to the most and why?

Heather, from ‘Turbulent Hope’ as she is based off of my teenage self.

How would you describe your book’s ideal reader?

Both of my books are geared towards teenage girls (especially ‘Turbulent Hope’) but have also been enjoyed by many adult women!

How long did it take for you to write a book?

‘Turbulent Hope’ took about 2.5 years from start to finish.

‘When Worlds Collide’ is a simple novella that took about six months.

‘Wounded Faith’ is currently in production. It’s maybe halfway through and I’ve been working on it for maybe nine months.

What do you hope your readers take away from your book(s)?

That faith can move mountains, to never lose hope, and stand firm to your beliefs.

Did you get some negative feedback on your book ? and if so how do you deal with that?

So far, the only negative feedback I’ve gotten was with ‘Turbulent Hope.’ One reviewer said that it was ‘well-written but boring and dragged out in spots.’ I mean, you can’t please everyone. People are going to love it. People are going to hate it. The best thing to do is listen to what your readers are saying and become a better writer because of it.

How did you feel when you first published your book(s)? Scared? Excited? Nervous?

Yes! 

Where can people who are interested in your book, buy your book ?

Both books can be purchased at various retailers or directly from my website (with a personalized note from me!). Visit tracizoschke.com for a full list of vendors.

Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?

I just finished a discussion guide for ‘Turbulent Hope’ which is available individually and also in bulk. I am currently working on ‘Wounded Faith: A Heartwrenching Story of Trial, Hope & Love.’ I am hoping to finish it this year.

Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?

Yes! I read every one! So far I’ve only received one negative comment. My first response was to be disappointed and offended, but then I realized that both positive and negative reviews are necessary if you’re going to become a better writer. I try to learn from both.

Traci Zoschke Media Links

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