From Inspiration to Page: A Chat with Dakota Jackson

1. How did you become an author? What was your inspiration to start (and keep) writing?

Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to be an author. My favorite series was the Baby-Sitters Club, and I'd write my own similar stories. Unfortunately, I lost a little faith in myself around middle school and switched my focus to math. After I had kids, I started reading again for fun and realized that not all stories need to be heavy and traumatic. People really want to read fun, light, happy stories--and that's what I wanted to write! So I decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad I did.

2. Tell us a bit about the genre you write in and how you create your storylines.

I mostly write clean romantic comedies. My current focus is a series of fairy tale-inspired, modern day romcoms (no magic) and they're so much fun to write. A couple of my earlier books have a women's fiction vibe to them as well. I really love writing about character growth and finding yourself. My storylines are usually built on the overall message and theme I'm trying to convey. I typically start with some kind of problem or character flaw and think about an arc that character would have to go through, and then the story builds from there.

3. Do you have any writing rituals or methods you depend on when you’re facing writer’s block?

I have to talk it out with someone else. My husband has become a sounding board, especially for the arc of the male main character. My sister-in-law loves to read, and she helps me sort out my stories. And one of my best friends has been a beta reader since the beginning, and I'll send her lengthy voice messages asking for help. Usually if I get stuck in the middle of the story, I'll read what I've written so far and that helps get my head back in place!

4. Can you tell us a bit about your process? What’s your favorite part and what’s the worst? Is there a special nook or spot you have to get your creativity flowing?

As a working mom of four, writing time is pretty sporadic. I keep my computer on the kitchen table so I can write whenever I have a chance, and I also use the Scrivener app on my phone for when I'm on the go. Because of that, I can't be picky about items or settings for writing.

My least favorite part of writing is the first draft. Sometimes it can be fun, but sometimes the words do not want to flow. I LOVE editing. I print out the entire manuscript and mark it up with a pen, then go back and fix it all up. It feels so good to have the story complete and work on improvements only.

5. How do other books, TV shows, and movies influence your writing?

I try to learn how to make people feel something. Whenever I read a book or watch a show and laugh, cry, or want to cheer, I ask myself why. I'll be honest, it's a little bit of a bummer that I don't just sit and consume books anymore. They're research for me. But I try to take every opportunity to make my own writing better!

6. Is there any specific author whom you admire/inspires you, that you read every book they publish? Who and why?

Katherine Center. Her books are funny but also heartfelt. I laugh and cry with every story, and I'm always left with hope at the end. 

7. What are you currently reading?

Dance of Thieves by Mary E. Pearson

8. If you watch TV, what are your favorite shows to binge-watch right now?

I don't watch much TV! I don't really have time for it, between my job, kids, and writing. But I do try to watch all the Star Wars shows with my husband whenever we can.

9. What are a few of your favorites (i.e. movie, song, food)?

Movies: Cinderella (2015 with Lily James), Pride & Prejudice (2005), Peter Pan (2003), The Count of Monte Cristo (2005)

Song: Sweetness by Jimmy Eat World and Only One by Yellowcard (I grew up in the early 2000's emo era) 

Food: Anything chocolate! I love dessert, and I make a pretty amazing chocolate cream pie

10. Do you have any talents/hobbies other than writing that your fans might not know about?

I play classical piano and trained in ballet for many years! Many of my characters play music and/or dance, because that's what I love to do. I also love baking.

11. If you weren’t a writer, what do you think you would be doing instead?

Writing is actually my side job, and (crazy enough) I'm a math professor for my day job. Most people can't believe it, but I truly love both math and writing/reading!

12. If you could go on vacation anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

Switzerland has been a dream ever since I was a little girl. And now that I write my fairy tale-inspired romcoms, I'd love to visit the little towns in the Alps!

13. Coffee, wine, or something else?

Tea is my favorite. I love Victorian London Fog from Harney and Sons with a splash of vanilla creamer.

I'm so grateful for anyone who is willing to take a chance on my stories. I have to pinch myself every few days when I realize I'm living the dream I had as a little girl, and it's incredible. There's nothing like holding a book in your hands with a story and characters you made up. Thank you to everyone who reads and supports!