Lorilyn’s Guest Interview: Tracy Krauss and Her New Book

Last updated on June 6, 2025

Lorilyn: When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

Tracy: Although I have always loved the creative process and have been a “storyteller” my entire life, I started writing about 25 years ago. Of course, in those days, it was a compulsion I found time for during my children’s naps. I hammered out reams of paper on my mother’s old typewriter or filled notebooks with my scrawl.

When the home computer age arrived, it revolutionized my writing, but I spent many tedious hours retyping what I had previously written and discovered that most of it wasn’t worth the paper it was written on. I finally started looking more seriously into publishing about eight years ago.

Lorilyn: How do you write? By the “seat of your pants” or outlining?Tracy: A little of both. Once I get the inspiration for a novel, I like to create very elaborate background stories for each character. I want to know my people inside and out and understand what makes them tick. Then I create a rough outline, which I eventually expand into a detailed plot for each chapter or scene. Invariably, though, when I start the actual writing process, lots of things change, and I go with that. The characters seem to take on a life of their own and often surprise me with their words and actions.Lorilyn: Tell us about your new book, where the idea came from, how long it took you, what inspired you, and how people can get a copy.

Tracy: My Mother the Man-Eater was originally inspired when I was playing “The Sims.” The characters and interaction mushroomed into the idea for this book – a forty-something cougar on the quest for fulfillment.

From the time I sat down and began crafting the idea into a book until it was finished, it took about four years. I tend to work on several projects at once, so this was while working on three other novels and about six plays (not to mention working). It is available at the usual online stores: Amazon, B & N, Chapters/Indigo (in Canada), Blessings Christian marketplace, and others. It is also for sale in several local brick-and-mortar stores in my area, Chapters/Indigo Stores, or directly from the publisher.

Lorilyn: What would you say to a writer who aspires to write fiction? Any good tips?

Tracy: Never stop learning. The moment you think you know it all is the moment you become stagnant. This means writing, writing, writing, and sharing your work with a critique group or other trusted friends. (Start with people who won’t be too hard on you.)

After that, seek critique from unbiased and professional people. These commentaries can often be hurtful, so be prepared to develop a thick skin. It makes you stronger and makes you a better writer.

Taking courses and workshops is also a good idea, as is reading a wide range of books in various styles and genres. Finally, examine your reasons for writing. If you want to become rich and be the next New York bestseller, then perhaps you should consider quitting and doing something else.

If it is your passion, however, you don’t need me telling you what to do. You already know: WRITE.

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Tracy Krauss is an author, artist, playwright, director, worship leader, and teacher. Originally from a small prairie town, she received her Bachelor’s Degree at the University of Saskatchewan. She has lived in many places in northern Canada with her husband, a pastor, and their children. They currently live in Tumbler Ridge, BC.

My Mother the Man-Eater is Tracy’s second published novel. A third novel, Play It Again, is currently in production and is the sequel to her debut novel, And the Beat Goes On, an archaeological suspense. Other published works include a play called ‘Ebenezer’s Christmas Carol’ available through Pioneer Drama Services.