Member Spotlight: Susan McCormick

Why is writing important to you and why do you think it’s an important medium for the world? Books create a whole new world, one of information and escape and joy and heartache and new friends and some characters suspiciously like people we know. Whether purely for entertainment or to bring a new understanding, there is nothing like a book.

What are your tried and tested remedies to cure writer’s block? When I was working (as a doctor), I had a set and limited time to write. There was no time for writer’s block, and if something wasn’t flowing, I turned to another scene. Now I am retired and have more time, and with that comes time to fiddle faddle. Tricky plot points and perfect bits of dialog come in the shower, in the night, on a long walk, anytime but when I need it, sitting at the computer. But it always comes, and I trust and hope it always will.

What is your favorite time to write? When I was working, my ONLY time to write was in the early morning hours (4:30 to 9am) on the weekends I wasn’t on call. The sun gets up early in the summer in Seattle, and I got up with it, my gigantic, sleepy Newfoundland dutifully padding downstairs with me to be my silent writing companion. Now Albert is gone, and I am retired and can write any time, but I miss those quiet hours.

What’s the best piece of writing advice you’ve ever received and would like to impart to other writers? Sit in the chair and do it.

What excites you most about being a writer in today’s age? The world is tumultuous and on edge, and I hope my books (cozy mysteries and suspense) can bring a break from every day life, can bring a smile, can bring some joy.

Susan McCormick’s The Room at the End of the Hall is out now with ‎Carroll Press.