This is Ink & Intrigue—the blog where romance ignites, secrets simmer, and every chapter hides a twist. I’m your blog host, Sheila Kell, romance author and lover of plot twists, slow burns, and morally questionable book boyfriends.
Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to an author whose stories are where crime meets horror, Cassandra Jones! If you love an anthology full of: Creativity, Self-Help, and Fiction, you’re in for a treat.
Cassandra Jones is known for crafting unforgettable stories. Her latest release in the anthology, Echoes of the Mind (a collection of short stories to raise awareness for mental health), is a Breath In and Breathe Out.
In this spotlight, I interview Cassandra and learn more about her behind the scenes. So, let’s get into it and give a warm welcome to Cassandra Jones! 💖
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First question—What’s your typical writing routine like — do you write with emotion or outline first?
I normally start with an outline, but then hardly ever stick to it.
Are the characters based on real people, or entirely fictional?
The two main female characters are actually based on me and an ex-best friend of mine.
Was there a particular scene or emotional arc that was difficult (or fun!) to write?
Honestly, with this story, the whole thing was a bit of an emotional roller coaster while I was writing it. Some of the things in it actually happened between me and that certain ex-friend. One line in the story is exactly what she told me when she decided I wasn’t good enough anymore.
I can see why she’s an ex-friend. Next question—What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
Always have backups of your work. And then have backups of your backups.
I can agree wholeheartedly there. Next—How do you deal with criticism or negative reviews?
I used to let the negative Nellie’s get to me. Now I just use them and other criticism constructively to better my writing.
What books or authors have influenced you the most?
On Writing by Stephen King. As for authors, there have been so many that I couldn’t possibly list them all.
What do you like to read in your free time?
I read pretty much anything I can get my hands on, but I do tend to write a lot of Romantic Suspense.
That’s good for me, lol. Okay, we’re getting near the end. What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
That I have an obsession with creepy dolls. I even make them myself.
That is unique. What are you working on next?
I am currently editing a story for another anthology and writing a book that will be part of a series I have planned called Heart Of A Hero.
That sounds exciting. I can’t wait. Do you have a dream project you hope to write someday?
Yes, actually, I have been working on the research for it in my spare time. I want to write a book on the history of my hometown.
On Breath In and Breathe Out. Do you have a favorite quote you’d like to share?
Sure—“The one thing you can do is leave me alone. Stay away from me. Stay out of my life. I’m better off without you in my life. I always was.”
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Cassandra’s Bio:
Cassandra Jones was born in Fairmont, WV, and raised in the small town of Four States (yes, that’s a real place!) She took Journalism and Creative Writing in high school, which only made her want to write more. When not writing, she can usually be found with her nose in a book.
She also loves to work on the family history, draw, diamond painting, make crafts, and creepy dolls. She writes Crime Fiction, Horror, Romance, Poetry, and Children’s.
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I hope you loved getting to know Cassandra Jones and hearing about her journey, her inspirations, and her latest release, Breathe In and Breathe Out. If you haven’t added Echoes of the Mind to your TBR yet, now’s the time.
You can connect with Cassandra Jones here:
📱 Socials: https://linktr.ee/writergirl74bVfA
🛒 Grab her book: Here
Thank you for joining me in spotlighting a fellow writer who’s giving us all the feels. Stay tuned for more author features, book talk, and behind-the-scenes goodness.
Until next time—keep reading, keep swooning! ✨📚