Do you struggle to meet deadlines? Author Mikayla Robbins shares three simple and actionable steps to help meet those pressing deadlines.
Mikayla Robbins’s Book & Writing Process
Table of Contents
Q: What is the title of your book and what is it about?
A: The Favored, a 1920s romance
Publication date: March 29, 2025
Q: What genre is The Favored?
A: Christian Historical Romance
Q: What inspired you to write The Favored, and how did you come up with the idea for it?
A: After writing my debut (The Chosen) I wanted it to be a standalone. However, I had readers wanting more closure, especially with WWI on the rise in 20 years. The area was gray, and I didn’t want my readers to lose hope in the couple–Anna and Collin. After reading Mrs. Dalloway in college, the side character Septimius Warren, had a story that stuck with me.
As a WWI veteran, he lost hope and chose to end his life so that he might find peace. Inspired by Septimius and heartbroken by his choice, my character, Roger McKinley was born. His story flowed out of me, and thanks to God, He gave me a theme of hope and peace to create this novel. As a victim of depression and anxiety, this story spoke to me, and I was able to write from my heart and experiences.
Like David, a man after God’s own heart, we all struggle with fear and depression, but God is always there to hear our cries and give us comfort.
Amen. I love the way you provided closure to your readers while also creating a story of hope and peace.
Q: What themes and tropes are included in The Favored?
I have several tropes:
- Enemies to Lovers,
- Sisterhood,
- Forced Proximity,
- Coworker Romance,
- Husband Hunting,
- Secret Heiress,
- PTSD Rep,
- Early Feminism,
- Club Dancing,
- Age Gap,
- Roaring Twenties,
- American Dollar Princess,
- Post Suffragette,
- Grumpy and Sunshine,
- He Falls First,
- He Rescues Her/She Rescues Him,
- Slowburn,
- Family Drama,
- Post WWI,
- Opposites Attract
Q: Who is the ideal reader for The Favored?
A: Adult Christian Women (But clean enough for 16+ readers)
Clean and Christian reads for teenagers is important.
Q: What’s the one thing you want readers to take away from reading The Favored?
A: God is always there when we need Him the most and is the only One who can heal our wounds. Also, God has a plan and purpose for us all.
These reminders will resonate with readers.
Q: Share a favorite quote or two from The Favored.
A: “It seemed that more secrets were uncovered each day in Richmond. The truth was buried deep and covered by closed memories that were never to be spoken of.”
“In a room full of Nicholsons, he longed to set her apart—to call her Margaret. He ached to utter the syllables, to feel each consonant and vowel form on his lips. But it was improper. She wasn’t Margaret to a low-born man like him. She’d forever be Miss Nicholson. But for tonight, he’d address her as such in his mind. She wasn’t to fit in; she was to stand out.”
Q: Are you a plotter, pantser, or plantser? Share a bit of your writing process.
A: To be honest, I’m a little bit of all. So I guess I’m a plantster. In the beginning, I knew how I wanted my books to start (conflict and all) and how to resolve, but the middle has always been difficult for me.
Since I’ve matured in my writing, I like to write my characters’ personas (qualities, quirks, features, conflict, backstory, etc) then I create my outline. My outlines are messy and are never for anyone to see. Sometimes I write dialogue, and sometimes I just write the setting and the end goal of the scene.
However, my characters do sometimes take the lead with dialogue and surprise scenes that can either be chaotic or genius. When that happens, I become a pantster rather than a plotter.
I like to think of plotters and pantsers being opposite ends of the same line/scale. Every writer fits somewhere on that scale and may even move along the scale depending on the book.
Q: How do you develop your plots?
A: I know this sounds cliche, but it comes to me. Somedays it will be a character that I invent and somedays it will be a conflict. I like to begin my plotting in prayer and then begin my outlines.
Somedays it takes weeks to find the middle of the story and sometimes it takes hours. The trickiest part is sitting down to write. Then I get nervous.
“What if today isn’t the day?”
“What if I write a better scene in a few weeks?”
“What if my inspiration is gone?”
But you just have to sit there and work through it. Anyone can write a story–it’s the matter of wanting to.
I like that you spend time in prayer as I believe God is a wonderful storyteller. And yes, I’m with you, doubt can derail the creative process if we don’t rein it in.
Q: How do you choose your character names?
A: I am a huge sucker for old-fashioned “grandma names.” Believe it or not, I have a notebook of baby names I’ve added to over the years. The sad part is I can’t use all of them. Therefore, I use them in my stories. The worst part is finding a last name that works.
Choosing character names can be challenging. I’ve had cases where a character goes through several names before I settle on the right one. Other times, they come with their name, and yes, I know how strange that sounds.😅
Q: What does a typical writing session for you look like?
A: First off, I begin by turning on my playlists on Spotify. I can’t write unless I have a soundtrack to immerse me in the story.
Next, I spend the next hour drinking coffee and focusing on editing or writing. If there are interruptions, my hours will be divided and picked up throughout the day, but I usually have one writing session per day, mini or full.
I wish I could listen to music with words when I write, but seriously, you have a system and I respect that.
Q: What makes a great story?
A: What makes a great story is it having a message for readers to take away from, writing that is strong in show vs tell so the reader can be immersed, and lastly, a character or two a reader can relate with.
These are indeed elements of a great story. When readers connect with the characters and your message, they’re drawn into your world. The key is to keep them there with excellent writing.
Q: How do you manage writer’s block?
A: I like to outline before I begin my book. I have more trouble in the middle than I do in the beginning. I try to be as detailed as possible. If I run out of ideas, I meditate longer and come back to it when I can. Inspiration sparks me at the most random times.
Having a detailed outlined and thinking about the story will bust through writer’s block for sure.
Q: How do you deal with imposter syndrome?
A: Imposer syndrome is real, and that is why critique partners are so important. I have friends to consult with and beta readers I depend on for honest and constructive feedback.
Having a supportive community will remind you why you write and that you belong.
Q: How do you handle criticism or negative feedback?
A: I handle it pretty well. When I send my work off to beta readers, critique partners, and editors, I want raw and honest feedback.
This is why you should have a set of people you can trust and bond with over criticism. It’s a safe space where you can discuss areas that need improvement and how I can strengthen them.
As for negative reviews for a published book, it hits differently.
I will sometimes feel like a failure for the amount of time I put in. However, I remember everyone has different taste. I’ve read many books I didn’t care for, so as long as I’m happy with my final project, that’s all what matters.
A trusted team who understand your voice and what you’re hoping to accomplish with your work will strengthen your writing.
And you’re right. Reviews hit differently than critiques and feedback. Reminding ourselves that our target readers will enjoy our writing, or even that not every book is right for every reader will temper your response.
Q: What was the most challenging aspect of writing and publishing? How did you (do you plan to) overcome it?
A: My most challenging part is the first draft. I want it to be perfect, but I’m still exploring the characters and storyline. I have a story I wrote a few weeks ago that is still bugging me with how it turned out.
However, when I return in a couple months, I will be able to see the whole picture and fill in the gaps. Once you finish your first draft, the hardest part is over.
The first draft is definitely challenging, especially for those who work without a detailed outline. But yes, once the words are written, we can polish them until the piece becomes something we can be proud of.
Q: How do you use social media as an author?
A: I use it to connect and attract my readers, along with building a community among other indie authors. I am very thankful for the community we built over time. Many friendships have been made, and even though we are unable to group together in person, it has been encouraging to keep in touch.
The ability to create community is one of the best facets of social media.
Q: Where do you find inspiration for your stories?
A: I love history and romance. When I was a child, my father always took us on vacations that were grounded in history.
Our activities consisted of museums and historical sites. I’ve gathered story inspiration for years.
My next series takes place in Montana, and in 2021, I explored areas like Bozeman and Yellowstone. My stories will take place in that area.
It sounds like you had a fun childhood! I can only imagine the story ideas you’ve collected over the years.
Q: What keeps you writing when you get demotivated?
A: Sometimes it’s okay to take a break and write at your own pace. It’s important to put your social life and relationship with God first. Priorities must be set.
Doing this, I have a clearer mind and I’m ready to write when it’s God’s timing. Each time I wait, it’s worth it.
Yes! Taking breaks and reconnecting with our family and friends will refuel our creativity. And yes, as much as we’d like to believe we know everything, God’s timing is perfect.
Q: Why do you write?
A: We all are given spiritual gifts and have a purpose God has planned for us (Matthew 25:14-20). It all depends on how we use them.
Writing is a ministry to me, and keeping that mindset allows me to align my priorities. I enjoy writing, but what I love the most is reaching others and glorifying God through fiction.
Understanding your purpose and the reason for it will keep you going on days when it doesn’t seem worth it.
Writing Advice from Mikayla Robbins
Q: What advice would you give to someone who’s just starting out?
A: My advice is to not give up. Once you finish your first draft, you have completed a milestone and the most difficult part is behind you.
Next, don’t be shy and keep your work to yourself. Share it with other authors and writers for feedback.
Wonderful advice! If you give up or don’t share your work for feedback will prevent you from growing.
Q: What’s the best piece of writing advice you ever received? How has it impacted your life?
A: Take a break. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, step back and return to your work when you’re ready.
Writing without inspiration isn’t fun. Come back with a better mindset. Writing with your soul is much better than writing mechanically as a chore.
Yes! If the writer’s not enjoying the story, chances are, the readers won’t either.
Q: What are your tips for developing characters?
A: I like to outline my characters by backstory and features. Giving them unique qualities will make them more fun to write about.
Also, stay away from characters of “perfection.” We are all flawed, and readers want to read about relatable characters.
I love backstory because it gives you a clear picture of the characters motivation and how they respind to pressure.
Q: Do you have any advice for setting author goals?
A: What you need is a planner. Set a goal date for when you want to finish your project and motivate yourself to make that goal.
Also, each week decide how many words you want to write. I find it useful to write 5-10k words per week. If you want to write 500-1,000 words a day, that would be great progress.
I do this too: set a deadline and a weekly goal. I’ve found that daily word counts work great for me, but weekly ones are better and more flexible.
Q: How do you find time to write?
A: I try to spend at least an hour per day either reading through my work, editing, or writing. It can be at night or early in the day.
I like the idea of remaining connected to the project while you’re working on it as that keeps the story and characters fresh in your mind.
Q: What are your tips for meeting deadlines?
A: Make some priorities. If you have to discipline yourself to no TV or social media, that can help.
If I meet my goal, I like to go out and celebrate with friends or have a chill day.
Also, updating my followers on Instagram about my progress helps. When they are excited about my work in progress, I’m excited too.
This is a great (and actionable) plan: prioritize, celebrate, and accountability.
Q: What are your suggestions for marketing books and getting them into the hands of new readers?
A: Join Facebook groups. I’ve joined “Hold the Spice, This Book is Nice” and “Closed Door Romance.” Those two are great ways to find a community and share about your books.
They have days where you can sign up to promote yourself for a day. That really helped with my last book release.
Lastly, starting a newsletter or participating in a newsletter swap is a good strategy to use.
Connecting with engaged reader communities is a wonderful way to share your book with readers. Also, newsletters get you and your book in front of new readers.
Q: If you could go back and change one thing in your author career, what would it be and why?
A: I would change a lot regarding my debut novel. I didn’t use enough beta readers or promote myself. I didn’t announce my book until the week before. I also didn’t have a community. I was very unprepared. However, I created a new edition and the sales are better than before.
Setting the right foundation for one’s career is key for new authors. But there’s another lesson here: mistakes can be fixed. Don’t think that you’ve failed because you had a wobbly start.
Q: What is one writing resource that you couldn’t do without?
A: I enjoy “The Emotion Thesaurus” by Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi. It has helped transform my writing with show vs tell and characterization.
This is one of my favorite resources.😀
Just for Fun
Q: If you could have dinner with any fictional character, who would it be and why?
A: It would definitely be Anne Shirley. We would get along so well, and I believe we would sit in the restaurant for hours. We would totally be kindred spirits!
Oh, I could talk with Anne for hours, too. She had such a vivid imagination!
Q: If you were not a writer, what would you want to be and why?
A: I would love to be an archeologist or historian. I love research, so if someone was paying me to devote all my time learning about the past, I would be so happy.
Exploring the past would be an interesting job.❤️
Let’s Connect with Mikayla Robbins
Q: What are you working on next?
A: I recently finished the first draft of the final book in my western trilogy, Montana Brides. I will send off book one in a couple of weeks to my editor, and then in the meantime start draft two of the second book.
It is a trilogy about three women who enter marriages of convenience.
Marriage of convenience is such a fun trope. I’m praying that your future endeavors will be successful.
About The Favored
Her inheritance is guaranteed—if she can marry in time. As the clock ticks, the cost of wealth may be more than she’s willing to pay.
Margaret Nicholson’s life is turned upside down when her estranged grandfather names her heiress of his fortune. After years of hiding from society, Margaret must develop social skills and find a suitable husband before her twenty-first birthday or lose her inheritance. As she enters her grandfather’s world, suitors line up to compete for her hand in marriage, but only a newly entitled British marquess catches her eye.
Roger McKinley, a former passionate poet, has suffered since he returned from The Great War. Feeling guilty and responsible for his brother’s tragic death, he finds himself in a repetitive routine, working during the day as an accountant for the Nicholson Building & Loan and reliving his war trauma at night. When Margaret enters his life, defying the traditional roles he’d always expected women to play, she unsettles his routine, awakening feelings he thought were lost.
As time ticks by, Margaret finds herself torn between societal expectations and her own desires. While working as a secretary, her heart is captivated by a troubled accountant, yet she is also being wooed by a charming marquess. With her inheritance on the line and her birthday approaching, Margaret must unravel the mystery of her heart and decide which path to follow before it’s too late.
The Favored is the second novel in the Advantageous Marriages series. Return to the world of the Nicholson family as they cope with the aftermath of World War I and their unexpected return to Richmond society.
About Mikayla Robbins
Mikayla Robbins is an award-winning author and member of the American Christian Fiction Writers. She is a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi, where she majored in English with an emphasis in British and American Literature.
Robbins owns her own editing business, Robbins Literary Consulting, where she works with indie authors who are pursuing publishing and aspiring authors who are in the process of crafting novels to query to an agency. Robbins lives in South Mississippi with her husband.
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