I met Teri at the Kentuckian Author Event in May. Teri discovered the Harry Potter books through a friend. It opened up a whole new world to her and she hasn’t looked back …
How did you decide to become an author?
I never consciously decided to become an author. I’ve always been an avid reader, and one day a fully formed story idea popped into my head. I wrote the book, but it’s something no one will ever see—it was an amateur attempt before I took the time to study the craft of writing. And boy, was I doing it all wrong. From there, the ideas kept coming, and I kept writing.
How does your professional background help with your writing?
Not at all. I have a BS in Business Administration and an MBA, over 10 years of experience in human resources, and more than that as a medical transcriptionist—which doesn’t use my degrees in any way, shape, or form. When my oldest son was much younger, I had the opportunity to work at home as a transcriptionist, and I’ve been doing it ever since. In some alternate universe, I’m convinced I majored in English and then got an MFA.
Can you tell us more about why you wrote your latest books?
My first book was a young adult horror, but my latest book is The Gemini Connection, a young adult sci-fi/thriller. The protagonists are twin brothers, and I don’t remember exactly why I focused on twins, but I’ve read stories about unusual connections between some, and it started the wheels turning. Dreams have always fascinated me, so there’s a little bit of The Matrix and Inception included, which are both on my favorite movie list. I tossed those ideas in a shaker, and what came out was The Gemini Connection.
What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
Read a lot, especially in your genre to know the market, study your craft, and don’t give up. Keep writing.
What are some upcoming publishing projects you are working on?
I’m currently working on my third book, another young adult sci-fi/thriller. Maybe I’ll get back to horror after that. I just go in the directions the characters lead me.
Visit Teri Polen’s Amazon author page.
Andrew M. Friday 
Andrew, thanks so much for hosting me on your blog today – maybe I’ll see you at the Lexington Legendary Book Bash?
I’m going to try and make it. Thanks!
The Matrix and Inception? That’s a cool mashup. And you handled it brilliantly. Wishing you all the best with the release.
I hold a fascination for dreams too, Teri–and the bond between twins. I’m looking forward to seeing how both play into The Gemini Connection. Congratulations on your release!