I take up a lot of mommy’s time. Being my mommy is a full-time job. Mommy is busy feeding me, keeping me clean, teaching me, giving me snuggles, entertaining me, and making sure I get adequate exercise. On top of that, mommy takes care of our home to make sure that I am safe and healthy. There is very little free time in mommy’s busy schedule.

When mommy has a moment to spare, she usually spends it by reading something. Reading is a big part of mommy’s day. There are blogs to read, recipes to peruse, self-help books to study, research to be done, and of course there are my stories that need to be read out loud. On those rare occasions when mommy has some real time to relax, she likes to indulge in reading a bit of fiction.

Mommy’s latest indulgence was a book called I Still Remember by Priya Prithviraj. This e-book is the ideal length for busy mommies looking for a little escape. At around 5000 words, mommy was able to enjoy this digital short on her tablet while I had my afternoon nap. It was perfect for mommy’s little escape.

The book is a sweet little story about a young girl named Ji-woo. With dreams of becoming a writer, Ji-woo is giving college a second try when her first love makes a sudden and unexpected appearance. As memories come flooding back and unresolved feelings bubble to the surface, Ji-woo’s life is at risk of derailment. While her world goes into a tailspin Ji-woo can take the easy path and give up on her dreams, or be strong and keep her life on track.

Priya Prithviraj is a published poet entering the realm of writing fiction and I Still Remember is her first book. Priya grew up in Koshikode, India and studied at The English and Foreign Language University in Hyderbad. For more from Priya visit her blog.

Priya was kind enough to agree to an interview. Here is a glimpse into the mind of an author along with some advice for those who are just setting out on the path to publishing their own book.

When and why did you decide to be a writer?

I don’t think there was a specific moment when I became a writer or even if I had ever made any conscious decision about venturing into writing. I used to write stories even as a child, mostly for school contests and later when I took up English for my higher studies, it was just natural to continue writing and also to take it to the next level by considering publication.

Is writing your full-time profession or a part-time interest?

To answer your question, I have to tell you that I’m not a full-time author. But my full-time profession is digital content marketing which does involve a lot of writing. So perhaps I could say yes as well.

What does literary success look like to you?

Success is always subjective and is dependent on your goals. So when I achieve the goals I set, pertaining to writing and publishing, that’s literary success for me. And my goals are not about getting into any lists, but about getting my story out there.

Do you find the writing process energizing or exhausting?

Writing can be both energizing and exhausting. It actually depends on your writing plan. If you set daily word count goals you may feel exhausted by when you finish, but if you go according to a story outline, it would be energizing as you see your story shaping up.

What is your favourite book and why?

I don’t have a favourite book. It’s hard to pick just one from the many books I hold close to my heart. But when I enjoy reading a book, I talk about it on my blog, which is where I share snippets from my life as a reader.

Do you have any advice for aspiring writers who are just getting starting on their first book?

All I would say is to work hard with all your heart, and head.

Do you have any marketing tips for writers who just completed that first book?

Again, I would say work hard to get the word out about your book. Use all means of communication with your potential readers – your blog, your mailing list and your social media channels. With so many dedicated author service providers such as Writerly Yours, it isn’t very hard to get a helping hand either.

If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

I would probably tell myself to read more, not just in English but also in other languages, because it all helps you as a writer. A writer is always a reader first.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

I don’t think much into the future, but I do plan on writing and of course, reading more in the years to come.

Thank you Priya for taking part in our author interview!

I Still Remember is a brand new book just released on May 14^th. It is being promoted through Writerly Yours. There is a book tour underway for the month of May. Check it out for additional information and more reviews.

Now on to the good stuff. Priya is giving us two digital copies of I Still Remember for a giveaway. Two lucky people will get their very own copy of this e-book. That’s double the odds of winning! Click the link below for your chance to win.

Click here for your chance to win.

Contest open worldwide. Must be 18 years of age or older. Winner will be notified by email. Accepting entries until June 30, 2017.

* We were given a free copy of this e-book for the purpose of this review. All views and opinions are honest and our own.