Rachael Eckles’s debut novel, Trading Secrets, was released May 4. I caught up with her to ask her about what’s next!
Q: What writing project or projects are you working on right now?
A: I am working on Book 2 in the Trading Secrets trilogy and also toying with idea of writing a self-care book on becoming the woman you want to be.
Q: How long have you been working on these?
A: Just released Book 1 of the trilogy on May 4, so very early into the writing process for Book 2. The self-care book is still in concept phase.
Q: What is something you love about writing?
A: I love that I can shape a fictional world to tell a story and get messages across.
Q: What is something you could do without?
A: Sitting hunched over a laptop! I’m an introvert, so I don’t mind the time alone, lost in my thoughts. I do, however, take issue with my aches from sitting!
Q: While working on this project, what are some of the most valuable things you’ve learned about writing?
A: The importance of perseverance and rituals. Writing a book (unless you’re under a contractual deadline) is not like school where all the steps are mapped out for you. It’s a fluid process, and you’re almost completely driving it. Going from “I’m writing a book” to “I’ve published a book” takes a lot of commitment and discipline to persevere.
In terms of rituals—for me, I need to ritualize writing. I thrive with a regular writing schedule—a certain time of day with a set amount of time blocked out for it. Whether it’s 20 minutes at lunch time or after everyone goes to sleep, it helps me to have a habitual schedule, as well as a ritual attached to it. For instance, in the mornings, I’ll have hot water with lemon after my morning meditation practice and dog walk.
Q: How might you advise someone who is working with a coach or editor (or considering doing so) to approach the process?
A: It’s the best investment I made in myself as a writer and in my finished product. I don’t have an MFA or a MA in Creative Writing. I just had a love for books and for storytelling. To translate that into chapters and plots takes some organization, and while storytelling may come naturally, formal writing didn’t.
It’s extremely important to have coaches and editors who have the right balance of honesty and motivation for your style of learning. You were the right mix for me—I knew there was no beating around the bush when I wasn’t submitting my best work, but I also knew you were always there to keep me excited, motivated, and progressing forward.
Q: What’s your day job?
A: Lawyer
Q: Favorite writing location?
A: I used to romanticize writing at the beach, but the logistics of the sand/keyboard situation and sunburn risk make that a little unrealistic. Nowadays, I’m ecstatic for anywhere I can see and hear the ocean.