Disilgold: What can you tell the Disilgold community about yourself that will explain why Disilgold has sought you for a perSOULnalized interview?
Elissa: Thank you for the opportunity. My name is Elissa Gabrielle, and I am the author of two poetry books, and three novels, one of which, A Whisper to a Scream will be released Spring 2009. I am also the President & CEO of two companies; Greetings from the Soul: The Elissa Gabrielle Collection and Peace In The Storm Publishing which debuts fabulous authors beginning January 2009.
Disilgold: What is your latest book about?
Elissa: The forthcoming A Whisper to a Scream revolves around Queen Thomas, an African American attorney in the Poconos. The book is an intense erotic drama which also focuses on issues that affect all humankind, including race relations, romance, mental disorders, self-acceptance and domestic violence.
Disilgold: How long did it take you to complete your book?
Elissa: Because of the twists and turns in the plot and subject matter, this book took over a year to complete.
Disilgold: What were the happiest moments you have experienced while writing your latest book?
Elissa: I felt a true sense of accomplishment with this book because it was difficult to write, so to finish it was extraordinary to me. I’m proud of myself.
Disilgold: Describe your writing style?
Elissa: Some call it poetry in motion. I call it ambitious. With each book, I’m trying to get better as a writer. With each novel, as well as anthology contributions, you’ll find a present tense, poetic and intense ride for your entertaining pleasure.
Disilgold: How did you develop your writing style?
Elissa: I started writing poetry first, you’ll always find some poetry or poetic flow in my writing. The writing developed naturally after I tested myself to see how far I could go.
Disilgold: Do you have a favorite author of all time or someone who inspired you to achieve your goals as a writer?
Elissa: There are a few writers that I absolutely love. Not a favorite of all time, but I do love Benilde Little. Another writer that I really like is one that doesn’t even have a book out yet, and her name is Lorraine Elzia. She’s got the goods for sure.
Disilgold: Where do you see yourself as a writer ten years from now?
Elissa: I see myself having released ten novels ten years from now and running a thriving publishing company.
Disilgold: What marketing tips can you provide to new authors?
Elissa: Stay outside the box. Be innovative and creative in your approach. Professionally aggressive.
Disilgold: What other projects are you working on?
Elissa: Peace In The Storm Publishing takes center stage in professional life at this time. New authors and new releases are forthcoming, beginning January 2009, at www.PeaceInTheStormPublishing.com.
Disilgold: What are your top ten favorite books right now?
Elissa: Good question. Good Hair by Benilde Little. Afterburn by Zane. A Man in Transition by K.L. Mistress Memoirs by Lorraine Elzia. The Cooling Board by Tamara Angela Grant. The Triumph of My Soul by various authors. Preacher Man Blues by Jihad. Good to the Last Drop by Elissa Gabrielle. Melody by Stacy Deanne. Crossing Jhordan’s River by Kendra Norman Bellamy.
Disilgold: When do you write and for how long?
Elissa: I write when I can. Because I am a mother and wife first, that’s my priority, to be a caregiver to and for my family. Sometimes I write in the wee hours of the morning from 2am to 4am. If I am lucky, I squeeze in writing time on the weekends after I’m done with the family thing.
Disilgold: Do you have a favorite location for writing?
Elissa: I love to write in the comforts of my home. Sometimes my home office or my bedroom even.
Disilgold: What method did you use to write or organize your book?
Elissa: I just wrote. If I couldn’t write, I’d take notes and address them later. I wrote whatever came to mind then organized the book from there.
Disilgold:What three words best describe your writing style?
Elissa: Explosive, passionate, intense.
Disilgold: What other hobbies do you pursue when you aren't writing?
Elissa: I write poetry and greeting cards. Lately, I’ve been reviewing submissions for the publishing company and that has been interesting.
Disilgold: Are there any hidden jewels or talents that you possess that many of your readers may not know?
Elissa: I like to think that I am a great cook J
Disilgold: Where can folks buy your latest book?
Elissa: Any online retailer like Barnes & Noble. Or www.PeaceInTheStormPublishing.com. All of my books, if not readily available in the bookstore, can be ordered at any bookstore.
Disilgold: Where can folks meet you?
Elissa: I’ll be on tour beginning in July 2009 once A Whisper to a Scream is released. You can visit www.ElissaGabrielle.com and www.PeaceInTheStormPublishing.com and soon I’ll post a calendar on the sites.
Disilgold: What have been some of your toughest obstacles as a writer?
Elissa: Wow, great question. Navigating my way through so much, like marketing opportunities, publishing options, and the six degrees of separation of nonsense that unfortunately, sometimes interferes with our objectives as writers in the African American literary community.
Disilgold: This section of our interview requires brief responses.
The "Get PerSOULnal" Interview
Disilgold: What time do you awake normally every morning?
Elissa: 4am.
Disilgold: What is your writing fuel in the morning?
Elissa: Green tea.
Disilgold: What early morning rituals have followed for many years?
Elissa: Prayer, Green Tea.
Disilgold: What are your favorite foods to snack on while writing?
Elissa: Grapes, cherries, and strawberries.
Disilgold: Do you watch television or listen to the radio when you're writing, and if so, what do you watch or listen too mostly?
Elissa: Depending on the mood of the scene I’m writing, I may throw on some neo-soul like Jill Scott or Maxwell. Good music is good for the soul and if the soul is right, the words flow properly.
Disilgold: What is your favorite book of all time?
Elissa: Not sure, there are so many.
Disilgold: What is your favorite magazine of all time?
Elissa: I love Essence.
Disilgold: Me too!Do you have an exercise regimen to suggest for busy writers?
Elissa: Exercise has become very prevalent in my life recently because of the importance of it. My suggestion – do something, anything for 30 minutes a day. Brisk walking is very good.
Disilgold: What is your everyday outfit?
Elissa: T-shirt and sweats.
Disilgold: What is your pet peeve?
Elissa: Ignorant people who say and do ignorant things. And gossip – I despise it.
Disilgold: If you could inspire a child, what would you say?
Elissa: Never give up.
Disilgold: What is your favorite motto?
Elissa: “A woman who doesn’t take a chance, never had one.”
Disilgold: What is your favorite time to put your writing pen down and rest?
Elissa: When I’m tired, I’m tired and there’s nothing left in me to give.
Disilgold: Have you traveled anywhere besides your hometown and if so, where?
Elissa: Sure, I’ve been to some states in the US, Canada, and Mexico.
Disilgold: Where is your dream vacation?
Elissa: A cruise to anywhere works well for me. I’m a pretty low maintenance person, but anyone who knows me well knows that a cruise lifts my spirits.
Disilgold: What do you particularly like about the literary world today?
Elissa: There’s room for everyone. I like that. I love seeing so many aspiring writers getting their hustle on. It’s refreshing to see.
Disilgold: If you could leave one word of advice to people in general, what would it be?
Elissa: Ask God to guide your steps. Stay focused, be encouraged and filter all of the negativity out of your life.
