Shelf Full of Books: Where Was God Blog Tour: Interview With Sheila Jac...

Shelf Full of Books: Where Was God Blog Tour: Interview With Sheila Jac...: I'd like to welcome Sheila Jackson to Shelf Full of Books for an interview today. She is the author of Where Was God? Their...

The Interview

What was the inspiration for this book?

I wanted to address the long-term effects of abuse and the damages it causes.  We work, worship, and hang-out with people that have learned to mask their pain. Verbal and physical abuse is real. There is no magic pill for getting over it. We’ve always heard 

people say, “That happened years ago” Or “Snap out of it and move on with your life and stop playing the victim.” But what if the shoe was on the other foot?

How much of yourself is hidden in the characters in your book?  

A Lot. Some are lovable, witty, corny, dramatic, and aggressive. I have all these characteristics rolled up in one body, each show up in my life when they are needed.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp? 

Yes. It’s okay to seek help when dealing with tough issues in your life. Asking for it doesn’t mean that you’re weak, but that you’re human.

How does your faith fit into your books? 

I couldn’t write Christian Fiction if my faith didn’t play a part in it. I have come through many obstacles in my life and had to lean on my faith, it helps me to write and let others know that they can get through their trials as well.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? 

Sarah Hamer, although she is not as popular as most romance writers, she took me under her wing and taught me valuable lessons about writing. Her teachings and critiques helped me to become the writer I am today.

Now for some fun questions.

What do you do to relax? 

I love shopping with my two teenage daughters, cook-outs, going to the movies, and having fun with good friends.

What is your favorite food? 

Fried catfish, shrimps, anything that has to do with seafood.

What is your pet peeve? 

I don’t like when people don’t clean behind themselves.

What is your favorite positive saying or motivational phrase? 

I coined this one myself years ago to keep me inspired, “I want more out of life than just to exist.”

Do you have a nickname? 

Yes. My mother-in-law calls me, She-She.