Today, I sit down and ask a few quick questions of poet and author Mercy Jane Ballesteros, she is the author of recently reviewed “Love In Between” which you can check out more about here.

How did you realize your love of writing?

Mercy: I started writing at the age of seven and from then on it has been my passion as well as a part of my life.

I noticed that you are only 21 years young. As someone who published her first two novels myself while still in high school, what motivates you to be so young and ambitious? Did you notice that people criticized you for being young and published?

 

What inspires the writings in Love In Between?

Mercy: Most of the short stories are about my experiences since I got sick at thirteen and through writing I can pour out my emotions best. I am a homeschooled student since 2010 and I seldom go out so whenever I meet someone I will write poems about them or may it be songs as long as I am inspired it [and] it comes naturally.  

I noticed even your short stories read like poetry because they are so eloquent in word choice and syntax. What do you love writing more: poetry or prose?

Mercy: Poetry. I love writing it better than prose. 

What inspired “The Last Days of My Life” piece within Love In Between?

I fell into depression and got sick at thirteen. I wrote that as if I was going to die due to the agony I felt but “The Last Days of My Life” also narrates how I accepted my illness and I know that I am loved, and I am satisfied of what was given to me.

You are currently studying Marketing in college. What are your goals with your degree once you complete it?

Mercy: I am on my 4th year and will graduate on 2019. I am a stock market and foreign exchange trader, so I will continue to trade and seek investors for my future company. I will also focus on my writing career and continue improving my writing style. 

Would you say being from the Philippines finds its way into the heart of your work?

Mercy: Yes. My country is my pride.

If you could chat with one person living or dead, who would it be and why?

Mercy: My Dear Lord Jesus Christ. He gave me life and loved me unconditionally. He is my guide, my light. He never left my side. I love My Lord. 

Do you have any other books out or projects forthcoming? How can readers connect with you best?

I am currently writing another novel and an autobiography. Through the books I’ve written, I wanted to inspire the readers by stories that would captivate their hearts. With every word perceived, the reader and I, somehow, we have and through those pages, met.

Any advice for a young amateur or someone who has an idea but isn’t sure it will survive the cutthroat market?

Every successful person will advise every dreamer to never give up, never give in and never let go. I may not be successful yet, but If I were to ready someone I would utter the same words as I believe that success begins with a fellow’s will.