Interview with Sara Wilke
Author of Bantering With Murder Book 1
SJ Wilke has spent a lifetime or two in the world of IT and Psychology. She’s traveled the physical world and explored the psyche of herself and those around her. She likes to create stories that make you lose time, fall into another place, and leave eality.
Buy this book
How would you describe Bantering With Murder to a new reader?
- Bantering With Murder is a slow burn murder mystery. Banter, a young woman, is a gun-for-hire, who gets bored and gets mixed up with a detective on the police force. She is a gun toting no nonsense type of girl who doesn't like playing by the rules.
What was the inspiration behind Bantering With Murder?
- My step-daughter is the model for both Banter and the culprit behind the murders.
Do you know how to shoot a gun?
- Yes, I do. I actually purchased a firearm and learned how to use it so I could make sure Banter used a gun correctly.
Can you pick a lock?
- Yes, I can. I bought a lock picking training pack and learned how to use it. However, I'm sure Banter is much better than I am. The only successful life of crime I can live is by writing Banter books.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
- You are a story teller. A story needs to develop. You can no rush into it. Also remember as the character goes through the story that life happens - yes, they may need to solve a mystery, but they still need to eat, use the bathroom, and pay the bills.
What's your writing process?
- I usually get a cover made first out of the idea I have. Once the cover is complete, that is my cue to write the book.I know what I want to happen. I start with the first chapter which always introduces the main character, then I write the ending. All that is left is to fill in the middle.
Which character in Bantering With Murder has had the greatest impact on readers?
- Considering what Banter does for a living, she is a well-balanced individual who has no problems sticking up for herself and barging into a situation. She learns quickly and knows how to keep herself safe.
Is Bantering With Murder part of a series?
- Yes, the Banter series currently consists of four books with more planned.
How have readers responded to Bantering With Murder?
- Some people have a love/hate relationship with Banter. She is so competent that she makes everyone else, including the reader feel a little inadequate.
Where next? What are you working on now?
- I continue to work on my Bitten and Banter series with a few other books thrown in to mix things up.
