Talking more with author Maya Tyler
1. What inspired you to write this book?
Designed by Destiny is Book 1 of Fairy Godmothers, Incorporated Series. I introduced my Fairy Godmothers in The Magicals Series and decided to make a spin-off series for them. The initial idea for Designed by Destiny came from a novel I started writing in 2012 originally titled The Un-Marriage Plan about a couple on the verge of divorce. Like many of my early works, it was abandoned to the abyss of unfinished projects. Years later, when dreaming up charges for my Fairy Godmothers, this particular couple came to mind.
2. How did you choose the title? Does it hold special meaning to you?
I choose the title Designed by Destiny because my main characters are architects who are brought together by destiny.
3. Can you share your process of writing and how long it took to complete the book?
I use a lot of different writing tools in my process like Save the Cat, Roller Coaster Plot, and Three Act Structure. I plot using pencil and paper. I manage my progress in an Excel spreadsheet. I consider myself a Plantster because I both plot (loosely) and write by the seat of my pants. I let my characters guide their development. We figure it out together. Writing is therapy for me. I share the sentiment, like many authors before me, of writing to understand myself better.
Starting with about 7.5k (wordcount from my first attempt), it took me about six months to complete a first draft (52k) and another month to polish and submit it for publication. It usually takes me about a year to write a full-length novel from start to finish.
4. Were there any challenges you faced while writing or publishing it?
My first series was very intense so this one was a light, enjoyable novel to write. I don’t remember any specific challenges during the writing or publishing process.
5. How do you feel about sharing your work with the world?
It takes a lot of courage to share my work. I’ve been writing—forever it seems—and publishing novels is my dream, but I’m shy so I use a pen name. I find separating myself from my writing persona makes it easier to put my work out there.
6. Are there any parts or characters in the book that are especially personal or meaningful to you?
The female protagonist, Bethany Clarke, faces workplace harassment which I realized later is based on my real-life experience with workplace harassment.
7. What do you hope readers will take away from this book?
I hope readers will enjoy this non-angsty romance. I also hope that readers will resonate with my character’s experience with workplace harassment.
8. Did you experience any memorable moments during the research or creation of the book?
I like my novels to be factually correct so I do a lot of research. Some of the interesting items that came up for this novel include: types of sofas; the Fountains of Bellagio show schedule; the floor plan of the Henry Clarke House; and the logo of the Chicago Tribune.
9. What surprised you the most about the publishing journey?
The publishing journey doesn’t end with the book’s release date. A lot of effort goes into securing book reviewers, book spotlights and tours, author interviews, and author collaborations to promote not only the current release but also the backlist.
10. Do you already have ideas or plans for your next project?
I am self-editing Book 2 of this series (currently titled Formula for Fate) which I hope to submit for publication soon. I also hope to write and publish Book 3, the finale of this planned trilogy.
All about author Maya Tyler
Maya Tyler is a multi-published author of paranormal romance novels. An avid reader, Maya writes the books she loves to read—romances! Her paranormal romances come with complex plot twists and happily-ever-afters.
When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, listening to music (alternative rock, especially from the 1990s), practicing yoga, and watching movies and TV
How to keep up with author Maya Tyler
Facebook/Instagram/X: @mayatylerauthor
Website: https://www.mayatylerauthor.com
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