Rachel Cherie

A West Coast girl, I was born in California and raised predominantly in rural Oregon. The result? A wonky blend of city girl and country girl. I wrote my very first story on dot matrix paper while in elementary school. (FYI… Dot matrix paper is this ancient printer paper that came in these huge, perforated lengths – I have no idea where my parents got it.)

Anyway, ever since, writing in all forms has been my loyal companion. Following a difficult illness in middle school, I completed my first novel-length manuscript at fourteen. This has yet to be published, but I have plans for re-writing it after I finish the Dekra 9-2-6 Series. This is a science fiction space opera with the feel of sci-fi shows like Farscape, Stargate SG-1, and Star Trek: NG. There are three books available: Expedition, The Cure, and Redemption. With book number four set to release August 2025!!

“Welcome, everyone! I’m excited to have author Rachel Cherie with us today. Let’s dive right in—Rachel, how much research do you typically do for your books?”

It depends on the genre, but usually quite a bit. I like my books to feel grounded, solid, and logical.

“That makes sense. So, what's your favorite genre to write in, and why?”

My favorite is probably sci-fi and sci-fi with a fantasy edge. I like the tech that comes with sci-fi, and to me it doesn’t really feel that much different from fantasy. Tech instead of magic.

“Love that take—tech instead of magic! Let’s switch gears a bit: does writing energize or exhaust you?”

Planning and writing are both energizing, but… I am an extroverted person, so the solo aspect of it can be difficult for me over extended periods of time.

“Totally understandable. So when you hit a snag—writer’s block, for example—how do you handle that?”

I don’t know if I’ve truly had it yet. I struggle to make connections and bridges between scenes and events, but usually I just work on something else or try different angles until it works itself out.

“Smart approach. Where do you tend to draw inspiration from?”

Literally everything, I think.

“That’s beautifully simple. Now, the dreaded question: how do you deal with criticism?”

I try to take who and why into consideration. I also try to make sure I don’t take it personally. A criticism of my book is not a criticism of me as a person. I’m always looking to improve, and if that criticism lends to improvement, then that’s not a bad thing.

“That’s a really healthy mindset. What originally inspired you to write?”

I read this book when I was around 11 or 12 and just loved the characters. And I wanted to do that too.

“So cool how those early experiences can stick with us. What does your writing routine look like these days?”

I do a lot of planning first. And I only write one book at a time. Do I write piles of notes and ideas that show up as well? Yes. But I don’t commit to actively writing more than one book at a time because I want to do quality control and preserve their individuality.

“That focus really shows in your work. Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring writers out there?”

I hope you want to write because it brings you joy. Not for reviews or awards or any of that. Writing is art. And even if it’s frustrating at times, at the end of the day, it should be a source of joy.

“What a beautiful note to end on. Thank you for joining me Rachel and sharing your writing journey with us.

To our readers:

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Until next time!”