1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing? 

My education was in science and I worked as a researcher where I started to enjoy technical writing. In 2008, as a stay-at-home mom, I began writing a fictionalized account of my experience with and recovery from anorexia. Seven years later, and with a manuscript of 180,000 words, I had the story edited, split into two books, that would lead to a third and fourth in the Being Me series, and published. 

2) What inspired you to write your book? 

I wanted to highlight the struggles people have with eating disorders and show that recovery is possible and attainable.

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

After publishing the Being Me series, I quickly jumped into the fantasy genre, and now have writing young adult fantasy, young adult dystopian, and a new adult romance series. Each of my books have different themes from self-acceptance, discovering self-worth, finding inner strength, discovering your unique abilities and gifts, to faith, hope, perseverance, sacrifice, and hope. 

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

As a multi-genre author, I love different things about each genre. In fantasy there are few limits on creativity, and I like that I get to create my own worlds and characters. In dystopian fiction many of the themes relate to courage, determination, and perseverance, and which are qualities I aspire to. In romance, I get to create fun stories where generally the worst thing that can happen is that you get dumped by your love interest. And probably in happily-ever-after he or she realizes their mistake or they weren’t the right one in the first place and Mr. or Ms. Right is waiting in the wings.

5) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have been most helpful for me in building a community of readers.

6) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

My biggest advice is to keep writing, improving skills, and find quality people who can help guide your books to be the best they can be. If you want to be published by a traditional, small house, or indie publisher, keep honing your story and pitch until you find the right fit for you. 

7) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

I have books in several stages. The fifth book in the Perfect romance series, penned under Maria Jane will release in June of 2026. The sixth book in that series, tentatively titled My, Not-so-Perfect, Cop, is in progress, and I have another YA fantasy featuring a nix character bubbling in my brain. 

Author bio

Award-winning author Tricia Copeland, with romances penned under Maria Jane, began publishing over a decade ago and now has over twenty titles in fantasy, dystopian, and romance genres. An avid runner and Georgia native, Tricia now lives with her family and four-legged friends in Colorado. Find all her titles at triciacopeland.com or mariajaneromance.com.