An updated interview with an author who packs a lot into a simple sentence.
Please, introduce yourself. Tell us about your personal life, family, education.
My name is Shana Congrove. I’m originally from Northwest Arkansas. I graduated from Gentry High in 1987 and continued my education at Missouri Southern State College where I majored in Commercial Art. After a few years of exploring my love for art and poetry, I decided on a career change, where I got into physical fitness and wellness. Six years later, I became employed as a fitness coordinator/CPR instructor for a corporate industry. Then, in 2023, I transitioned with the company as an Occupational Health Assistant and presently promoted to the company’s injury counselor.
In 2025, I relocated from living in town to a peaceful, spacious ranch with my husband and our ten-pound Chihuahua in Vian, Oklahoma. Although my full-time position keeps me busy, I still find time to fulfill my passion for writing and art. I first began writing my dark fantasy/paranormal romance series in 2014. I now have six published books in the series, along with forty-six children’s books, plus one in the works! This year, I’m excited to release my first horror novel: Monsters Are Real. A chilling horror that explores love, sacrifices, and the monsters we carry inside. While this tale is largely fiction, it carries threads of reality woven throughout.
If you are active in career fields other than writing, what do you hope for the future of that business?
My hope for the future is to retire within the next four years to pursue my love for writing full- time. Plus, I plan to spend more time with my husband and our Chihuahua on our beautiful ranch.
Do you have hobbies? How did you get started in them?
My hobbies include writing adult and children’s fiction, staying fit, tending to a garden, taking care of our chicken coop, and helping my husband take care of our peaceful ranch.
If you are a writer, are you an avid reader?
I do enjoy reading. I’m a big collector of books too! Although, I prefer audiobooks since I’m limited on free time.
What is your ultimate writing goal as you see it today?
I really don’t have a writing goal. I just plan on writing what I enjoy as long as I can.
What inspired you to write your first book?
My inspiration was a dream that partly came true. It was one of those moments of déjà vu.
How do you decide on the title of a book?
I don’t. They just come to me as I decide on a story. And sometimes the story is something from a dream.
Writing Style
Have you developed a specific writing style and why?
My writing style is normally in third person. Although, my newest horror novel is in first person. I was once told that my writing style is similar to Anne Rice. I’ll take that as a compliment since I love her books.
How much of your books is realistic and experiences based on someone you know, or events in your life?
Most of all my adult books have a little of me in them. It’s fun to express the locked away personalities that we sometimes keep hidden for good reasons. But also, some of my characters are somewhat based on the personalities of people I know, plus some celebrities.
Who is your favorite writer, and what is it about their work that really strikes you?
I am passionate about many writers. Firstly, I love Anne Rice, especially The Wolf Gift. JR Ward inspired my Novels of the Breedline series, plus I love all her books. Another author I enjoy is Ronald Kelly. Fear is my all-time favorite story.
Do you remember the first book you read?
My first book was Peter Pan before I could read. I always wanted to grow up and be Peter Pan.
Is there an author, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?
I would’ve loved to meet Anne Rice. I would’ve loved to have her sign my favorite book and also pick her brain. I’d love to know what inspired The Wolf Gift.
Self-Expression
If you could not write, how would you express what you wish to convey through any stories?
Before I started writing, I used my artwork and poetry to express stories.
When you see new authors struggling, what single piece of advice could you give them on a moment’s notice?
I would definitely tell them not give up. Also, never stop learning. Lastly, find a way to grow some thick skin because there are so many negative people in this world.
How do you want others to see you or remember you? Is it important to you?
I’d like to be remembered for how much I loved to create a story just to entertain readers.
Do you have a blog or website viewers can visit for updates, events and special offers? Include HTML links to any and all of your sites.
Website: www.shanacongrove.com
YouTube: @books4everyone
Amazon author central: https://www.amazon.com/Shana-Congrove/e/B08644YYDZ/ref=aufs_dp_fta_an_dsk
Shana’s 1st Interview: https://writeanygenre.com/2023/12/03/shana-congrove/
A Book Excerpt from her children’s Sacience Fiction/Fantasy: https://writeanygenre.com/2026/04/30/shana-congrove-3/
