Frequently Asked Questions
These questions are from a few interviews I did.
You may copy questions and answers freely from this page if you refer to this website.
– Can you provide a brief overview of your background?
– Certainly! I’m Debra Quincy, The coolest gal on the blockchain! My journey commenced as a six-year-old street thief in Seoul, leading me to an eight-year stint with the Double Dragon mafia. Joining the UK army at 18, I served in Afghanistan and got a few new friends. After relocating to Santa Monica, a reunion with my sister Lenora after 19 years sparked a mission to rescue our third sister, Angelica, discovered trafficked in Albania. Thus began our human trafficking fighter team.
– When did the desire to become a writer first manifest?
– In 2014, following my return from Albania, where my sister was trafficked, I felt compelled to act. The stark reality of trafficking, hidden by search engines, prompted me to share the untold horrors with the world.
– What is the average duration for completing one of your books?
– Crafting my initial book, “Dirty Business,” consumed six intense years. Subsequent works, like “Lethal Business,” were completed within a year. These timelines reflect the need to process and convey the harsh realities of global-scale trafficking. The first time was the hardest.
– Why are you writing about trafficking?
– I write about trafficking because my sister was kidnapped and trafficked. Discovering the truly terrible and extensive nature of this business pissed me off something awful.
– Could you describe your writing routine?
– Typically, I immerse myself in an intense week of writing, followed by breaks for mercenary work, relaxation, and social interactions. Operating as a night owl, I find my prime writing hours to be from late afternoon to 3 AM.
– What would you say distinguishes your writing style?
– I aim for a direct, precise, and honest narrative. Sarcasm and boldness characterize my language, particularly when addressing traffickers, paedophiles, and child molesters. My writing reflects a commitment to truth and justice.
– How and where do you publish your books?
– I utilize Amazon as my publishing platform. While initially rejecting other publishers, I’ve found satisfaction with Amazon.
– Where do you draw inspiration for your books?
– All my stories are rooted in real-life experiences, primarily my own. I extract narratives from personal encounters and the stories of those affected by trafficking.
– When did you begin your journey as a writer, and at what age?
– The initiation of “Dirty Business” occurred at 29 in 2016. Initially, I wrote for therapeutic reasons, using the process to navigate the trauma of my criminal past and the shocking realities of trafficking.
– How do you spend your time when not engrossed in writing?
– My time outside writing is dedicated to family and travel. We explore places attempting to avoid trafficking hotspots, though traffickers, paedophiles, and child molesters seem ever-present.
– How does your family perceive your writing?
– My family provides substantial support and encouragement for my writing endeavors.
– What was the most surprising revelation when you embarked on your writing journey?
– The unexpected affinity for the act of writing itself emerged as a significant surprise. It evolved into a deeply creative process connecting me with higher forces and guiding me to the right people and places.
– How many books have you authored to date?
– “Dirty Business” stands as my inaugural book. I’ve also penned a free short novel, “Lethal Business,” and am currently engrossed in crafting “Bloody Business,” addressing organ trafficking. Another work delving into child molestation and satanic rituals is in progress.
– Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?
– Yeah. I would like to pass on an advice I got many years ago. Regardless of your chosen path, pursue it with passion. Genuine passion leads to mastery and excellence.
– Do you receive feedback from your readers, and what are they saying?
– Many readers express deep surprise at the extent of the crimes depicted in my books. I also receive comments about the bold language used, and while I issue a warning in advance, some appreciate the comprehensive vocabulary. Countless women have shared their harrowing stories, offering valuable insights into their lives.
– Have you ever faced “writer’s block,” and if so, how do you overcome it?
– No, “writer’s block” is not a concept I subscribe to. My writing draws from personal experiences, both positive and negative. With a rich tapestry of events to explore, I never run dry of inspiration. The critical goal is to raise awareness about the horrors of trafficking, and that keeps me motivated.
– How do you handle negative book reviews, and have you received any?
– Fortunately, I haven’t encountered negative reviews yet. I hope to address any concerns before they manifest as formal reviews. Given the passionate goal of my books, I evaluate reviews in the context of that mission, understanding that reactions may vary due to the explicit language used.
– What are the most important elements of good writing in your books?
– A meaningful message is crucial. While writing skills naturally develop over time, a powerful narrative should take precedence. Choosing between first and third-person perspectives is a key decision, as it’s challenging to switch mid-series.
– Which comes first for you, the plot or the characters, and why?
– I engage in both processes simultaneously, finding equal importance in crafting characters and developing the plot. While my first book involved a mix throughout, subsequent works have focused more on the plot, allowing room for suspenseful storytelling.
– How do you develop your plot and characters?
– Real-life experiences, especially from our missions and operations, form the foundation of my plots and characters. Drawing from this rich source ensures authenticity in my storytelling.
– How has writing and publishing a book changed your self-perception?
– Writing and publishing have prompted a deeper understanding of myself. Confronting my shadows through self-reflection, especially when writing about personal experiences, has been a therapeutic and illuminating process.
– If you had to describe yourself in just three words, what would those be?
– Passionate, determined, compassionate.
– If you could invite any three people for dinner, whom would you invite?
– Jason Statham, Bruce Lee, and Lee Child.
– What do you think is the best way to improve writing skills?
– The most effective way to enhance writing skills is to write consistently. Mastery comes with a commitment to the craft.
– Are there therapeutic advantages to creating characters based on people in your life?
– Writing about myself provides a platform for self-evaluation, confronting personal shadows. Exploring friends and family characters offers new perspectives, deepening my understanding of their motivations.
– What is your favorite writing snack or drink?
– A special mix of walnuts, cashew nuts, salty almonds, and raisins, accompanied by tea or coffee, serves as my preferred writing snack.
– If your book were made into a movie, which actors would you choose for your characters?
– Jason Statham is a top choice, and if Tom Cruise is open to a different role, that would be ideal.
– What has been the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received about writing?
– The most valuable advice is to pursue writing with passion and heart or not pursue it at all.
– How do you celebrate when you finish your book?
– I never consider a book truly finished. Continuous revisions for better wording and precision are ongoing. Celebration comes from the satisfaction of refining the narrative.
– If you could meet your characters, what would you say to them?
– I would express endless love and gratitude. One love!
– How do you use social media as an author?
– Social media serves as a platform for engaging with readers and fellow authors. Announcements about new book releases are shared, and interactions focus on building a supportive community. However, due to the nature of our work and the need for security, detailed personal stories and images are limited.
– How do you come up with character names for your stories?
– Character names are with a few exceptions derived from real-life experiences. Drawing inspiration from people encountered during missions and jobs adds authenticity to the characters. The goal is to reflect the diversity and nuances of individuals encountered in the fight against trafficking.
– What’s your favorite writing software of choice?
– While I have a preference for silence during writing, occasionally, I find inspiration in the background music from Minecraft, particularly for its soft and calming tones.
– How do you get inside your character’s heads?
– The process involves drawing from personal experiences and the shared stories of others. This allows for a deep exploration of emotions, motivations, and perspectives, ensuring that characters resonate authentically with the challenges they face.
– If you were to write a spin-off about a side character, which would you pick?
– Dave or Celestine would be intriguing choices for a spin-off, given their roles and unique stories within the narrative.
– What are the common traps for new authors that you would advise them to avoid?
– New authors should be cautious about falling into the trap of trying to please everyone. It’s essential to stay true to one’s voice and narrative style. Seeking genuine feedback and remaining open to constructive criticism are also crucial for growth.
– How do you come up with ideas for your books, and do you have a specific writing routine?
– Ideas for books stem from real-life experiences, primarily focused on missions and operations. The writing routine involves taking a week off to write intensively, followed by breaks to engage in other activities, including mercenary jobs, beach visits, and relaxation. As a night owl, the most productive writing hours are from late afternoon to 3 AM.
– What books did you grow up reading, and did any specific author influence your early reading habits?
– My early reading habits were influenced by a variety of books. However, Lee Child stands out as an author I admire. Growing up, I engaged with a diverse range of literature, fostering a love for storytelling.
– If you could choose a spirit animal as a writer, what would it be and why?
My spirit animal as a writer would be a predator, symbolizing a relentless pursuit of truth and justice. This aligns with the bold and determined approach reflected in my language and narrative style.
– Do you have any writing rituals or practices that you find particularly helpful?
– Coffee is an essential companion during the writing process. Its energizing qualities contribute to maintaining focus and creativity. The special snack comprising walnuts, cashews, salty almonds, and raisins is also a delightful addition to the writing routine.
– What are the most valuable lessons you’ve learned about writing through your experiences?
– One crucial lesson is the significance of passion in the writing process. The advice to do what one loves with passion resonates strongly. Additionally, maintaining authenticity and staying true to personal experiences contribute to creating impactful narratives.
– How do you approach the emotional or difficult scenes in your writing, and how do you set the mood for those moments?
– Emotional or challenging scenes are approached with a genuine reflection of personal experiences. Writing becomes a form of therapy, allowing for the expression of both successes and failures. Setting the mood involves delving into the depths of emotions, enabling readers to connect with the raw and authentic aspects of the narrative.
– What would you say is your ultimate goal or message with your books?
– The primary goal is to raise awareness about the horrors of trafficking and child molestation. Through storytelling, the aim is to inspire readers to become advocates for the cause rather than just consumers of the books. The passion for the mission reflects in the narrative, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these critical issues.
– How do you deal with the challenges of balancing writing with other aspects of life?
– Balancing writing with other aspects of life involves taking breaks between intensive writing sessions. Engaging in activities with family, traveling, and participating in mercenary jobs contribute to maintaining a healthy equilibrium. The challenge lies in finding enough time to write, given the burning passion for the craft.
– If you could offer one piece of advice to new writers, what would it be?
– The advice to new writers is to pursue their passion wholeheartedly. Passion fuels mastery and excellence, and staying true to one’s heart, soul, and purpose is crucial for a fulfilling writing journey.
– How do you handle negative reviews, and what impact do they have on your writing process?
– So far, negative reviews haven’t been encountered, but the anticipation of differing opinions is acknowledged. Negative feedback will be evaluated within the context of the passionate goal behind the books. The intention is to maintain the honesty and precision required, especially when addressing sensitive and challenging topics.
– Can you share a memorable moment or event during your writing journey that had a significant impact on you?
– A transformative moment in the writing journey was the realization of the vital role played by a traumatic experience in the mountains. Initially hesitant to write about it, understanding its importance to the narrative took four years. The process of revisiting and expressing the trauma became a therapeutic and empowering experience.
– What inspires you to continue writing, and how do you stay motivated during challenging times?
– The inspiration to continue writing stems from real-life stories, often drawn from personal experiences and those of individuals impacted by trafficking. The motivation to raise awareness about these crimes and make a meaningful contribution to the cause keeps the passion alive. Challenging times are navigated by focusing on the mission and the potential impact of the stories.
– Can you share insights into your writing schedule and how you manage your time effectively?
– A week dedicated to intensive writing is followed by breaks, allowing for engagement in various activities. Being a night owl, the optimal writing hours are late afternoon to 3 AM. Time management involves balancing writing with family time, travel, and mercenary jobs. The burning passion for writing, akin to three volcanoes, ensures that there is never enough time.
– Are there specific themes or messages you hope readers take away from your books?
– The primary theme revolves around the horrors of trafficking and child molestation. The goal is to create advocates for the cause, fostering awareness and action. The narrative emphasizes the need for readers to become allies in addressing these critical issues rather than mere consumers of the stories.
– How do you navigate the process of developing plotlines, and what advice would you give to others in this regard?
– Plot development involves drawing inspiration from real-life missions and experiences. The intertwining of personal narratives and global issues forms the basis of engaging plotlines. The advice for aspiring writers is to focus on creating a meaningful message within their narratives, prioritizing a powerful and purposeful story over concerns about writing skills.
– What elements do you consider essential for good writing in your books, and how have you worked on improving these aspects?
– The essential elements for good writing include a meaningful message and a powerful narrative. While writing skills naturally develop with time and practice, the emphasis is on crafting a compelling story. The writing process involves revisiting and rewording to enhance suspension and precision, ensuring the language aligns with the impactful themes explored.
– Can you share your perspective on the value of professional editing in the development of a book?
– The books haven’t undergone professional editing, and the need for it is acknowledged. While the absence of professional editing might impact certain aspects, the author focuses on the authenticity of the message. The consideration for professional editing is left open for future works.
– What challenges do you face when writing emotional or difficult scenes, and how do you set the mood for such moments?
– Writing emotional or difficult scenes requires tapping into personal experiences, making it both a confronting and therapeutic process. The mood is set by revisiting the emotions associated with the events, allowing for a genuine and authentic expression of the challenges faced during trafficking missions.
– How do you handle the balance between writing about personal experiences and maintaining a degree of privacy or protection for yourself and your family?
– The author acknowledges the need for privacy and protection, especially considering the potential threats associated with the subject matter. While engagement on social media is limited to protect against potential risks from those targeted by the missions, the focus remains on using personal experiences to bring authenticity to the narratives without compromising safety.
– What role does travel play in your writing, and how has it contributed to the authenticity of your stories?
– Travel is an integral part of the author’s life and significantly influences the narratives. Experiences from different locations, encounters with traffickers, and the exploration of global issues contribute to the authenticity of the stories. The author acknowledges the challenge of finding places free from trafficking, underscoring the pervasive nature of the issue.
– In your writing space, what do you need to stay focused, and how do you celebrate when you feel a sense of accomplishment in your work?
– Coffee is a must in the writing space to maintain focus. The author refrains from traditional celebrations upon completion, as the process is ongoing. Instead, the focus is on continuous improvement, revisiting and polishing aspects of the work to enhance its quality.
– What has been the most surprising aspect of your writing journey, and how has it changed your perception of yourself?
– The surprising aspect has been the unexpected love for writing and the realization of its deep creative and connective nature. Writing has become an addiction, providing a conduit to higher forces and guiding the author to the right people and places. This journey has altered the author’s perception of herself, showcasing the transformative power of storytelling.
– As a writer with a strong advocacy for a cause, how do you hope your books impact readers, and what responses have you received from them?
– The primary hope is that the books create awareness about the tragedies of trafficking and inspire readers to become advocates for the cause, not just for the books themselves. The responses have varied, with readers expressing deep surprise at the extent of these crimes. The bold language used in the narratives has sparked discussions, and the author has received stories from countless women who have lived through similar horrors, providing valuable insights.
– How do you deal with negative reviews, and do you anticipate potential critiques aligned with the passionate goal of your books?
– As of now, there have been no negative reviews, but the author is open to the possibility. Negative responses will be evaluated within the context of the passionate goal of the books. The author recognizes that the language used, while bold, is aligned with the necessity of describing the harsh realities of trafficking and child molestation honestly.
– In terms of writing challenges, is there any aspect you find particularly tricky or wish you had more time for in your creative process?
– Finding time remains a perpetual challenge, as the passion for writing burns like three volcanoes. The desire for more time to write and polish aspects of the work is an ongoing sentiment, reflecting the deep commitment to creating impactful narratives.
– Looking at your writing journey, are there specific stages of life where you found yourself doing most of your writing, and how have these experiences shaped your work?
– Writing has been a continuous process, with experiences from various stages of life contributing to the narratives. Personal and family-related events, especially those tied to trafficking missions, have shaped the stories. Writing about these experiences serves as a form of therapy and self-evaluation.
– If you could give advice to new writers working on their first book, what would it be?
– The advice is to seek help in various aspects, including cover design, proofreading, bug identification in the story, and publishing. Collaboration and assistance in these areas can enhance the overall quality of the writing process. The overarching message is to pursue writing with passion and authenticity.
– When it comes to character development, do you find it more satisfying to write about yourself, friends, or family? How does writing about these individuals impact your understanding of them?
– Writing about oneself confronts the author with personal shadows, leading to self-evaluation and therapeutic reflection. Portraying friends and family offers new perspectives, deepening the understanding of their motivations and actions. It becomes a process of seeing loved ones from different angles and comprehending their complexities on a deeper level.
– As someone deeply connected to real-life stories, do you see any therapeutic advantages in creating characters based on individuals within your sphere?
– Writing about oneself serves as a form of therapy, prompting self-evaluation. Narratives involving friends and family provide insights into their lives and motivations. The therapeutic advantages lie in the exploration of personal and relational dynamics, fostering a deeper understanding of oneself and others.
– Reflecting on the journey of your first book, “Dirty Business,” what part of the writing process did you find most challenging, and how did you eventually approach it?
– The most challenging part was addressing a traumatic event involving serial assault in the mountains. Initially hesitant to write about this experience, it took four years to recognize its vital role in the story. The approach involved acknowledging its importance for the narrative and using writing as a form of therapy to process and overcome the associated trauma.
– Conversely, what part of “Dirty Business” was the most enjoyable to write, and what made it special to you?
– The extraction mission in Rabta Jail in Tunisia holds a special place in the author’s heart. Apart from a claustrophobic shaft, the mission, particularly the collaboration with Dave, marked a significant and enjoyable moment in the writing process. It was the first mission the author and Dave undertook together, creating a memorable and impactful story.
– Looking back at the development of your first book, how has it changed since the initial draft, and what motivated those changes?
– Upon reflection, it was recognized that parts of the first book, “Dirty Business,” were initially perceived as boring. Subsequent revisions aimed to inject more suspense into the narrative, addressing pacing issues and ensuring a more engaging reading experience. The changes were motivated by a desire to captivate the audience and convey the gravity of the subject matter effectively.
– With your books addressing challenging themes, how do you navigate the emotional or difficult scenes, and what techniques do you use to set the mood when writing such segments?
– Writing emotional or difficult scenes involves immersing oneself in the experiences and feelings, reliving both successes and failures. The process is approached with authenticity and sincerity. To set the mood, the author taps into personal experiences, allowing genuine emotions to inform the narrative and convey the depth of the subject matter.
– Given your commitment to raising awareness about trafficking and child molestation, how do you handle negative book reviews, especially if they arise due to the bold language used in your writing?
– As of now, the author has not encountered negative reviews, and the hope is to address any potential concerns before they transform into reviews. Acknowledging the passionate goal of the books—raising awareness about crimes like trafficking—the author emphasizes evaluating reviews within the context of this overarching purpose. The bold language used is considered essential when describing the harsh realities depicted in the narrative.
– As a writer deeply connected to real-life stories, how crucial do you think professional editing is to a book’s development, and have you employed professional editors for your work?
– Surprisingly, the author has not utilized professional editors for the books. The significance of professional editing is acknowledged, and the idea of engaging an editor might be considered in the future. The lack of professional editing does not undermine the author’s commitment to producing impactful and authentic narratives.
– Exploring the inception of your book “Dirty Business,” what inspired the idea for the story, and how did it evolve as you delved into the complexities of trafficking and its consequences?
– The central inspiration for “Dirty Business” stems from the kidnapping and trafficking of the author’s sister, Celestine. This pivotal event opened the author’s eyes to the horrors of trafficking, igniting an endless passion for storytelling and a newfound purpose in life. The narrative evolved organically as the author delved into real-life missions and experiences, weaving together a compelling and authentic portrayal of the crimes and their aftermath.
– In your journey as a writer, has the process of creating and publishing books altered your self-perception, and if so, in what ways?
– The act of writing and publishing has not only allowed the author to share impactful stories but has also influenced self-perception. Writing about personal experiences, successes, and failures prompts self-evaluation. The author describes the writing process as a deeply creative endeavor connecting with higher forces, leading to meaningful connections with people and places. This transformative aspect has contributed to a heightened sense of purpose and an addiction to the power of words.
– If you were to advise new writers working on their first book, what crucial piece of guidance would you offer them?
– The author recommends approaching writing with passion and heart, emphasizing that lack of passion may lead to mediocrity. Staying true to personal values and writing about what genuinely ignites passion ensures a road paved with dedication, ultimately leading to mastery and excellence.
– What books do you enjoy reading?
– Pretty much only comics! X9, Modesty Blaise, Garth, Corrigan, Rip Kirby.
– How do you create and develop plotlines for your stories, and what do you consider the most important elements of good writing in your books?
– Plotlines are derived from real-life experiences, missions, and jobs. The author prioritizes meaningful messages in the narratives, emphasizing that writing skills naturally develop over time with consistent practice. The crucial elements of good writing, as identified by the author, involve having a powerful narrative and making a deliberate choice between first and third-person perspectives from the outset.
– In your writing journey, have you experienced “writer’s block,” and if not, how do you ensure a continuous flow of creativity and ideas?
– The author dismisses the concept of “writer’s block,” expressing a belief that there’s no shortage of material to write about. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences, successes, failures, and the horrors of trafficking and child molestation, the author contends that there is always an abundance of content to explore and share.
– Reflecting on your preferred writing environment and habits, could you describe your typical work schedule when you’re actively engaged in writing?
– The author typically takes a week off, retreats to a secluded location, and engages in intensive writing sessions. Following this concentrated period, the author takes a few weeks away from writing, participating in other activities like mercenary jobs with family, beach outings, and relaxation. Being a night owl, the author finds the late afternoon to 3 AM as the most productive time for writing.
– You mentioned engaging with readers and fellow authors on social media. How do you utilize social media as an author, and what is your perspective on its role in connecting with your audience?
– Social media serves as a platform to interact with readers and other authors. While the author refrains from sharing personal images and daily stories due to security concerns, social media is effectively utilized to communicate book releases and engage in conversations related to the author’s passion for raising awareness about trafficking.
– Considering your experiences, especially the horrors witnessed during missions, what spiritual or therapeutic practices help you maintain the right headspace for writing?
– Writing itself is considered a therapeutic practice, providing a creative outlet to process and express experiences. The author also highlights the importance of coffee as a writing companion, suggesting that the act of writing is intertwined with personal and family experiences, which collectively serve as a source of inspiration.