Trice Hickman

The Power of Persevering to Bestselling Author Trice Hickman

Interview by Angela Anderson

Trice Hickman is a self-proclaimed Southern girl at heart. This award-winning, bestselling author has currently penned 10 fiction books and is actively working on her next one. Her love of reading and the power that she recognized early in the written word ignited her inspiration to become a writer. Trice followed her heart and began pursuing her writing career. However, after receiving numerous rejection letters from agents and publishers, she found herself unpublished. Trice didn’t allow the noes to stop her. She was determined to bring her stories to life. She persevered and went full steam ahead and self-published her first three novels. Not long after, Trice landed a multi-book deal with Kensington (Dafina Books) where she is currently published.

The Heat Seekers magazine had an opportunity to chat with Trice Hickman about her writing journey and her latest book release, Blindsided.

Angela Anderson: When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?

Trice Hickman: I want to start by saying thank you for this wonderful opportunity to be interviewed by The Heat Seekers magazine! This is an honor, and I’m greatly appreciative. Now, on to the question at hand! I have always loved reading and writing since I was a child, but it wasn’t until my sophomore year of college at Winston-Salem State University, that I thought about becoming a writer/author for my profession. I had enrolled in an advanced women’s literature course that focused on Black literary female writers and poets. After being introduced to legends like; Alice Walker, Toni Morrison, Zora Neal Hurston, bell hooks, and other amazing black women writers, I knew that writing was my calling.

AA: What was one of the most surprising things you learned about yourself while writing your books?

TH: That’s a great question! The most surprising thing that I learned about myself while writing my books, and what still surprises me today, is my ability to be laser-focused and singularly dedicated to completing my manuscript. Discipline is a learned art, and I believe that in order to complete a book, you must be able to master it time after time.

AA: What do you need in your writing space to stay focused?

TH: The thing that I need most, in order to stay focused, is quiet. Sometimes I play soft piano music or meditation melodies in the background, but for the most part, I need a quiet, dimly lit environment to create a good writing mood.

AA: Do you have any quirky writing habits or must-haves when you are in your writing flow?

TH: When I’m in my writing flow, you will often catch me with a pencil clenched between my teeth, because I jot down ideas, mid-sentence, and it’s easy for me to place in there any in-between thoughts. My husband has seen me do this many times and he will shake his head smiling every time!

AA: If you had to give one piece of advice to new authors, what would it be?

TH: My one piece of advice to new authors (or to anyone who is following a long-held dream) is to be fearless. Fear is a killer of dreams and the fuel for procrastination. Fear can keep you stuck in places where you shouldn’t and don’t need to be. Whether you pray, meditate, use therapy, or all three, use the method that helps you conquer your fear and pursue what God has waiting for you.

AA: What is one thing that most readers don’t know about you?

TH: That I’m handy with a hammer. I love DIY projects and home repairs. My father was a general contractor, so I believe that’s where I get it from.

AA: Ok, let’s talk about your latest book, Blindsided. What was the inspiration behind this story?

TH: My inspiration behind Blindsided, was to continue the story of Bernadette, Tess, and Arizona (the main characters from, The Other Side), three ladies who are all at pivotal crossroads in their lives, in their search for happiness. I love the way they find strength from one another.

AA: If you could describe this book in three words, what would they be?

TH: Empowering. Significant. Strength.

AA: What is next for Trice Hickman?

TH: I’m currently working on the follow-up to Blindsided. I am also creating content for my lifestyle blog, Fabulous Southern Belle, which will be re-launched by February 2022!

AA: What are you looking forward to in 2022?

TH: The last two years have been extremely challenging, so in 2022, I’m looking forward to the pandemic being under control so that we can visit, fellowship, and live life in a safe and healthy way. I want to travel and spend more time with family and friends.

AA: Trice, it has been such a pleasure interviewing you. How can reader fans stay connected with you?

TH: I’m so glad you asked because I love interacting with readers and book clubs! People can stay connected with me through my website, www.tricehickman.com, or social media platforms on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest, by using the platform name followed by, /tricehickman. They can also sign up for my e-newsletter by sending an email request to tricehickman@yahoo.com.