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Hey. I'm Jess.
I'm quite content being an average human being. Besides my five darling children and swoon-worthy husband, I don’t tout much claim to glory—even my middle name is just plain old Ann with no “e.” After a ten-year stint as a portrait photographer where I put my BA in Political Science from Brigham Young University to good use, I now spend my time frolicking between this awe-inspiring world and the one in my head where enthralling stories come to life. Besides my love of storytelling and my deep obsession with my perfectly quirky little family, I'm also an avid reader, proud introvert, collector of awkward moments, shameless people watcher, international café loiterer, and perpetual student. For sparse updates on what I'm up to, feel free to sign up for my newsletter or follow me on IG @authorjessheileman, though know that my presence with both is left wanting.
Q&A
When can we expect another book? As soon as I can manage to get another one written. I'm partially through several books and will be sure to let my readers know when I near the finish line (so sign up for my newsletter or follow me on Instagram or Amazon).
What part of writing do you like most? Least? I love telling stories. Stories come into my mind and once they are there all I want to do is sit down at my computer and attempt to capture them. Least is definitely editing what I've written. This is probably because I'm a perfectionist and no matter how many times I read a manuscript I can find a thousand ways to still improve it.
What do most of your readers not know about you? I'm an atrocious speller and constantly invent new words that I legitimately think are real until my husband informs me they aren't. But to spin it in a positive light--I'm a word inventor.
What advice do you have for someone hoping to write a book? It is amazing how many people I have met who dream of writing a book. My only advice is write. There will never be a perfect time for anything. In all the years I yearned to write my first book the stars never aligned for me. My guess is they won’t for you either. Just start writing and keep going. You can absolutely do it!
Is Regency Romance your favorite genre to write? Is it your favorite to read? I do love the genre, but it is by no means my favorite. The first book I started writing (over twelve years ago) is a historical fiction set in ancient Rome. I’m yet to finish it as well as several other books that span genres from science fiction to fantasy, though most of them are historical and have an element of romance. As for reading, I love all types of books. I'm an easily-pleased reader and adore most books I finish (though I don't finish all books I start). I genre hop constantly, but I must admit my favorite reads almost always include some sort of happily ever after.
Was it difficult to write a book? Writing for me is a pleasure, an escape from the tasks of my everyday schedule and demands. It has been the publishing process that I have found extremely difficult: editing, being vulnerable as others read your manuscript, the endless to-do lists, and marketing.