Thanks so much, Debbie, for inviting authors to talk about their writing. Once I get started on the subject, I need an old-fashioned shepherd’s hook to pull me away. I thought of what I wanted to say, and finally this hit me. You know, every author has her own unique way of building a story.
The first type finds it easy, because they have a hundred stories flitting around in their mind just asking to be told. They’ll sit and chatter, telling you one story line after the other. Finally breathless, they blink and ask, “Which one should I write first?” I blurt out, “That last plot.” Then I sit on my hands to keep from strangling them.
Oh, how I envy the next one. She’s the lucky dreamer who not only awakes rested, but she’s invigorated by her dreams. My youngest daughter used to do that. While we were eating breakfast, I’d ask her how she had slept. She’d say she had the most marvelous dream and would proceed to share it with me. My mouth would drop, because she had dreamt a complete tale, along with the background, people, dialog–everything. That was before I started writing. Now that I could use some story plots, she no longer dreams epics. Drats!
Some writers need inspiration to write. That’s me in a very big way. Without it, I can’t write a word, much less 100,000 of them.
Toni Blake asked in her blog, “So... what places or settings most inspire YOU. Beaches? Mountains? A wintery landscape? And what are your favorite settings in romance novels? Inquiring authors want to know!”
Well, now, I’ll tell you what inspired my first tale and every one thereafter. After we retired, my husband and I went to Great Britain for three weeks. When we arrived, it was too early to go to the B&B, so we decided to see our first castle. Before I stepped through the outer gatehouse, I reached out and touched the wonderful old wall. The stone felt so warm, so alive. I thought of all the thousands of people throughout the centuries that had walked on that same ground, touched that same stone where my palm rested. I could almost hear them talking, chattering, yelling.
I imagined the sharp clop, clop, clop of horses hooves ringing out on the cobblestones as a black clad knight rode through the barbican on a massive destrier. He stopped and sat quietly, then pulled off his helmet. His fingers ran through his long, black hair as he stared across the bailey at a lovely woman. A riot of brown curls framed her face as she laughed up at a slender man dressed in a tunic of colors a peacock would envy even on its best romantic days. My warrior struck his fist against his thighs, determination glinted from his steely, gray eyes. This would be the last time she favored that nithing of a man she talked with. She had teased my warrior for the last time. He had waited overlong. By the time the sun slept behind the nearest mountains, she would be betrothed to him. They would be wed in a sennight, else her father would deal with him and his army camped outside the castle walls.
In those few simple moments, I fell in love. That’s right. Completely in love with crumpled ruins.
I couldn’t wait to explore every inch of that castle. It talked to me, lured me to find its secrets, its memories. We climbed the stone stairway up to the wall walk and slowly made our way around the curtain wall as far as we could. I looked out from the battlements at the countryside below, then further along stopped again to peer down over the cliff into the turgid waters. I shivered when I faced the bailey to stare across at the opposite curtain wall. Was that the shimmering visage of a man staring back at me, wanting to know why I was there?
The curtain walls that outline the castle are still there, as are the towers and parts of the keep. Some places are too crumbled to explore. One room of the keep fascinated me more than the others. My imagination ran full blast there.
Toni asked what inspires me as an author to write? These medieval settings that refused to disappear into the earth. I go to Scotland, Wales and England when I can. It isn’t often enough, but until someone gives me a great deal of money, it is all I can do. My heart speeds thinking about it. I get this hungry feeling in my chest. Sometimes, I have a terrible fear that I’ll never see them again.
This castle of my heart is actually in Wales. Chepstow Castle. I wrote the Blackthorn trilogy because of Chepstow, but I placed it in Scotland and named it Blackthorn. In my mind, it was the home of the MacKay’s (they were called Morgans then) on the Kyle of Tongue. I have no idea what their castle was named, or if it bore a name at all. Most of its ruins have long since collapsed on an area of stones that juts out at the water’s edge.
From that castle sprang Always Mine, followed by Mereck’s Bride and Risk Everything. Risk Everything was published in 2005; Always Mine came out this month, August of 2006. Mereck’s Bride will follow in October 2007. I’m delighted that both Risk Everything and Always Mine have received Five Star reviews.
My imagination also needs inspiration from music. I cut a disc with music that makes my heart pound. I included love songs and duets with Andrea Bocelli, Sarah Brightman, Jose Curá, Dulce Pontes and the wonderful sounds of Capercaillie. I play that disc and the music fills the house. Those lovely songs are being sung, not by living people, but by my heroes, my heroines.
Now, who could ask for better inspiration than sight and sound?
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Sophia Johnson Interview
Please welcome Sophia Johnson to my site. Sophia is a super sweet lady who writes awesome medievals. She will be a guest blogger here on Wednesday so get those questions and comments ready!
Without further ado....Meet Sophia!
Welcome to Deb's Interview with Sophia Johnson!
Sophia, Welcome to the Bookstore! We’re happy you could take time out and chat with us.
Thank you for asking me to join you today.
Tell us a bit about yourself, your background, family, pets, etc.
Once upon a time, I was born. In Key West, of all places. Truly. Don’t believe my sister, because she always tried to convince everyone I was hatched. Dad didn’t help when he called me his “little ostrich egg.” I had freckles. We moved to Panama when I was six months old. It was a wonderful place to live with lush jungles, lots of parrots, wild life and cute kinkajous. We also had not-so-charming snakes, crocodiles, tarantulas and bats. I survived—with a horrid fear of spiders—to return to Key West seven years later.
Key West was nothing like it is now. No way could my siblings (the eldest is my brother, followed by two sisters – I was the brat) or I get into trouble. Mom and Dad would hear if we misbehaved before we got home. We moved to Miami when I was a teen, and I met my sweet Gil. We have two wonderful daughters and four of the sweetest grandchildren in the world. Gil and I are retired and live in the rolling hills of north-central Florida. Two small dogs keep us company. The eldest (4 years old) is Jamie, a beautiful long-coat black and white Chihuahua. The neighborhood calls him The Terrorist. He needs sessions with the Dog Whisperer. We also have a beautiful sable and white Papillon. Konner is five months now. Jamie’s been on the contest page of my website, and I’m adding Konner this month.
For our readers unfamiliar with your work, tell us what kind of books you write.
I love writing medieval romances set in Scotland and England. My heroes are always Alpha, and the women in their lives are more than their equal. No silly heroines for me. Nuh uh! If you believe women should be subservient or should defer to men then don’t read anything I write. I put myself in the women’s shoes and react the way I would expect if I was suddenly back in medieval times.
Women then couldn’t be the weak nothings we thought they were. Take Queen Bodicea of Ancient Britain as an example. Read about her and her daughters, and you’ll see what I mean. How could women have been weak and survived all the hardships they went through. Some women held down the castle while their husbands were away fighting. And don’t forget to look at the Queens of England and of other countries.
Unfortunately, America has never had a woman president. Sissy us.
Everything I have ever read about you, including reviews talks about how rich your books are in history and that they are just wonderful reads! That has to make you feel good to know others think so well of your books.
I write what I call books with wallpaper history. The history is the background of the time; the stories are character-driven (with strong plots) sensual romances, medieval style.
Oh, I more than feel good, when others think well of my books. I love it when a reviewer gets the story, understands the underlying emotions of the characters and why they do something. I get a kick out of remembering that my wonderful critique partner Delle hated Rolf in Risk Everything. She sent notes on the ms saying, “This guy’s a jerk!” I grinned; I crowed! I wanted that reaction from a reader, because he was being a medieval jerk. That made his changing so much more fun.
Wait until I get Masked Desires published and see what I do to a reclusive monk. *heh, heh* I had such fun! By the last page, everything about that poor man changed after what I made him do.
How did you get started in your writing career? Was this something you have always wanted to do or did it just evolve over time?
I have loved reading since I was five. Mom and Dad had a library room with books and a piano leading from the parlor through an archway. We used to sit on the floor surrounded by encyclopedias. That was a wonderful set. I can still smell them. They had light rose covers, and each book had a beautifully illustrated story or fairy tale in the very beginning of the volume. You know, if they came out with something like that now, maybe our children would be better readers. It sure started all of us!
Rats. I’m rambling. I started writing when my daughter and son-in-law came to spend the Christmas holiday one year. When they arrived, my son-in-law carried in three or four big boxes and set them down at my feet saying, “Merry Christmas, Mom. Now we want you to stop reading all those books and start writing your own.”
Well, now, I couldn’t disappoint them, could I? After New Years, I started researching the Norman Conquest and I was hooked.
Are you a full time writer now? What kind of jobs have you had before pursuing your writing career? Did you have a best or worst job?
Yes, I write full time. I often feel it’s more than full time, because it’s Monday through Sunday. I’m not writing all that time, because the other things that go along with being an author interfere. Web site updating, contests, advertising, answering fan mail, fighting with the computer and cursing the danged thing when it acts up.
I was an executive secretary when I was a young woman, then after we had our girls, I went back to school and went into computer programming. I became a Systems Analyst for a major institution. I wrote systems for mainframe computers, and I loved every minute of it.
I know you are a fairly new published author but you definitely have a following with your wonderful medieval books. How many books do you have out now? Does this include your newest release ALWAYS MINE?
Thank you for calling them wonderful. The stories that are out are part of the Blackthorn Castle trilogy. Always Mine actually began the trilogy, Risk Everything ended it, and yet to be renamed Mereck’s Bride is the middle story.
You were one of the new Zebra Debut authors with your first book, RISK EVERYTHING. Tell us about your road to publication. How long did it take you to be published and how did you become one of the Zebra Debut authors?
When I joined RWA in 2000, I had been writing about a year. I was a Golden Heart finalist in 2002 and seriously started seeking a publisher then. Two years later, I sent Lord of Vengeance to Kensington and two other publishing houses. Hilary Sares called me about two weeks later and offered a contract. I grabbed it, of course, and I am forever grateful that she liked my writing. She was a great editor to work with, very good for a writer’s morale and self-esteem.
By the way, Lord of Vengeance became Risk Everything.
I understand that you love to travel and research the books you write. This time period has always fascinated me and I would love to go tour a castle. How much research do you do for each book and approximately how long does it take you for each book? Have you always been drawn to this time period? Will all your books be medievals or do you have other time periods you want to write about?
I’ve always been drawn to the medieval time period, since those early encyclopedias. I do love to travel, and I’ve spent a lot of time tromping over castle ruins in England, Scotland and Wales. I feel the stones, rub my hands all over the old walls and talk to them. I imagine the people who touched that same spot all those many years ago, and they talk to me. I imagine what those walls have seen. Lydia in Always Mine was doing all I have done when visiting ruins. I don’t have the same empathy for castles of recent centuries, the ones that are still intact and have people living in them or caring for them. They’re too young to have the personality of the people I dream about.
For me to write a tale of love through the ages and do it well, it takes at least eight months. It takes a lot of time to find the right names for characters, sometimes a week before I’m satisfied. I search through medieval names websites, and I mean search. In Risk Everything, the man’s name is Rolf MacDhaidh. Well, someone read the synopsis and snorted. He thought I should have used Ralph.
Tell us about RISK EVERYTHING and your newest release, ALWAYS MINE. I believe they are connected books. Please tell about them and how they are related. Will there be more in this series?
I think I’ve answered this a little. The Scottish characters, Meghan and Damron, are cousins living at Blackthorn Castle where he is Laird. The third book is about Mereck, Damron’s bastard half-brother born just minutes after him. I love Mereck. He’s such a sexy, wonderful man. His story has more humor than the other two books. Mereck can hear people’s thoughts, by the way. Lynette of Wycliff had better watch what she’s thinking around this guy!
How do you keep up with all the pertinent details of your characters and storylines, especially with a series? Your books are so wonderfully rich in detail and make the reader feel like they are right there in medieval times, it must be a huge undertaking to remember all that detail! Do you use a log, notes or perhaps a computer program to help you keep up with all this wonderful information?
I think of my characters first, hunt for pictures in magazines and then make a bulletin board with them. I use 5 X 8 cards and put their name, age, color of hair, eyes and describe their faces, their scents, any oddities on them. I also put their horse or animals names, their banners, all personal info so I can grab a card and see if he has brown or blue or green eyes. I also do a personality sketch using 45 Master Characters by Victoria Lynn Schmidt. I type and print their character study and keep it with the card on the person.
Your characters are so strong and definitely kick a**. I love reading how they interact and butt heads with each other. Is this something you originally planned or did it just the characters develop this way while you were writing? Have they ever surprised you and taken off in another direction than you planned for them to go? If so, what does this do to the story?
I’m so glad you like the strong women. I’ve had two people write that they didn’t like their being so independent and how they fought (I call it standing up to) the hero. I like to think any strong woman who valued herself would react that way to a medieval man and how he tried to treat women.
Yes, I plan them as being women to be reckoned with, but they do develop their full personalities while I’m writing. Oh my, they surprise me all the time. I wrote one beautiful woman into the monk’s story and planned to kill her off toward the end. Well, the blasted woman startled the heck out of me. She wasn’t supposed to be nice, but she went and did something so totally surprising that I didn’t have the heart to kill her. So, she gets her own story in the new Raptor Castle series.
As for the men, I often wanted to whap Rolf alongside his head, kick Damron’s shins and sneak up and pinch Mereck’s wonderful, er, arse.
Are you a strict plotter and outliner or are you more relaxed in your writing style?
I HATE to outline a story and try not to if I can help it. It totally ruins the writing for me. I get the plot formed in my mind and start writing. I guess I’m a seat-of-the-pants writer. I like the surprises the characters give me. I can hear the women giggling and the men growling in the background when they rebel and take off on a tangent. I let them tell me, else they’ll be silent and I can’t find the words to put down. The page would be blank, that terrible white space that makes me panic.
How long goes it take you to write a book? Does this include revisions? Approximately how long does it take for you to see it on the store shelves after you turn it in? Is it different with each book?
Like I mentioned, I need anywhere from eight to ten months before I feel confident to send it out. Risk Everything took eleven months from the time Kensington bought it to the publication date. Then there was thirteen months between it and Always Mine. Mereck’s story is slated to come out fourteen months afterward in December of 2007.
What was your reaction to seeing your first book on the store shelves? I know I would have been over the moon!
It’s a wonderful feeling, but kind of unreal? I’m an awful introvert. I’d love to be bold enough to pick my book up off a shelf, hold it high in the air and holler, “Hey, you! People! This is MY book. Come buy it. You’ll really love the sexy stuff!”
What else are you working on? Any more to the current series or have you started something totally new? Any idea when we can look forward to another book by you? Hope it’s soon! They are definitely worth waiting for!
I’ve started a new series that isn’t under contract yet. Masked Desires, a monk’s story, begins the Raptor Castle tales. I’m planning on four books, starting with Masked Desires then Beloved Sacrifice, Honor Bound and Dreams Fulfilled. Four major characters demand their stories to be told, and I’m trying to accommodate them. Maybe then they’ll let me sleep.
What do you do for fun? Any special treats or hobbies you like to indulge in after a hard day?
Now and then we take a day to browse around antique shops with Gil, my brother and his wife. Sometimes we go into Ocala for dinner with them, or out to breakfast with friends. My husband takes charge of food, else we’d starve to death. I forget to eat unless he cooks and calls me to dinner. Indulge? I love peanut butter cups, but I’ll only allow myself one. Those things are habit forming. If I’m depressed, I’ll forget my control and grab two or three.
Give us an example of a typical day in your life. Do you try to keep to a specific writing schedule or number of pages written per day?
We get up usually around 6:30, not because I want to, but Gil’s golf times are usually early. If he’s not playing, he’s helping to build houses with Habit for Humanity and has to be there early. He’s free Wednesday and Sunday, so we sleep until 8:00. Yippee! Uh, that’s if the dogs let us..
MWF I go to Curves for 45 minutes, and I’m usually in here by 9:30 or 10:00. I try to at least write five pages a day once I start a ms. It all depends, though. Lately, everything seems to get in the way.
If you had one piece of advice to give to a writer just starting out, what would it be?
If you think it’s going to be easy, forget it. It isn’t, but don’t be discouraged. Anything worth having is worth fighting for. So be stubborn. I have a quote on the bottom of my terminal. Want to know what it is? Too bad if you don’t. I’m going to tell you anyway.
You have to have confidence in your ability, and then be tough enough to follow through by Rosalyn Carter. I should have it tattooed to my forehead.
Sophia, thanks so much for stopping by to chat with us. It’s really been fun! Continued good luck in your writing career!
The fun’s been all mine. Thanks for letting me talk my head off.
You can learn more about Sophia Johnson and her wonderful books at her website. http://www.sophiajohnson.com
Be sure to stop in tonight and tomorrow while Sophia guest blogs with us! We love your comments.
I'll be giving away a goodie bag to one winner of the people to blog with us. What are you waiting for? Invite your friends and have fun!
Without further ado....Meet Sophia!
Welcome to Deb's Interview with Sophia Johnson!
Sophia, Welcome to the Bookstore! We’re happy you could take time out and chat with us.
Thank you for asking me to join you today.
Tell us a bit about yourself, your background, family, pets, etc.
Once upon a time, I was born. In Key West, of all places. Truly. Don’t believe my sister, because she always tried to convince everyone I was hatched. Dad didn’t help when he called me his “little ostrich egg.” I had freckles. We moved to Panama when I was six months old. It was a wonderful place to live with lush jungles, lots of parrots, wild life and cute kinkajous. We also had not-so-charming snakes, crocodiles, tarantulas and bats. I survived—with a horrid fear of spiders—to return to Key West seven years later.
Key West was nothing like it is now. No way could my siblings (the eldest is my brother, followed by two sisters – I was the brat) or I get into trouble. Mom and Dad would hear if we misbehaved before we got home. We moved to Miami when I was a teen, and I met my sweet Gil. We have two wonderful daughters and four of the sweetest grandchildren in the world. Gil and I are retired and live in the rolling hills of north-central Florida. Two small dogs keep us company. The eldest (4 years old) is Jamie, a beautiful long-coat black and white Chihuahua. The neighborhood calls him The Terrorist. He needs sessions with the Dog Whisperer. We also have a beautiful sable and white Papillon. Konner is five months now. Jamie’s been on the contest page of my website, and I’m adding Konner this month.
For our readers unfamiliar with your work, tell us what kind of books you write.
I love writing medieval romances set in Scotland and England. My heroes are always Alpha, and the women in their lives are more than their equal. No silly heroines for me. Nuh uh! If you believe women should be subservient or should defer to men then don’t read anything I write. I put myself in the women’s shoes and react the way I would expect if I was suddenly back in medieval times.
Women then couldn’t be the weak nothings we thought they were. Take Queen Bodicea of Ancient Britain as an example. Read about her and her daughters, and you’ll see what I mean. How could women have been weak and survived all the hardships they went through. Some women held down the castle while their husbands were away fighting. And don’t forget to look at the Queens of England and of other countries.
Unfortunately, America has never had a woman president. Sissy us.
Everything I have ever read about you, including reviews talks about how rich your books are in history and that they are just wonderful reads! That has to make you feel good to know others think so well of your books.
I write what I call books with wallpaper history. The history is the background of the time; the stories are character-driven (with strong plots) sensual romances, medieval style.
Oh, I more than feel good, when others think well of my books. I love it when a reviewer gets the story, understands the underlying emotions of the characters and why they do something. I get a kick out of remembering that my wonderful critique partner Delle hated Rolf in Risk Everything. She sent notes on the ms saying, “This guy’s a jerk!” I grinned; I crowed! I wanted that reaction from a reader, because he was being a medieval jerk. That made his changing so much more fun.
Wait until I get Masked Desires published and see what I do to a reclusive monk. *heh, heh* I had such fun! By the last page, everything about that poor man changed after what I made him do.
How did you get started in your writing career? Was this something you have always wanted to do or did it just evolve over time?
I have loved reading since I was five. Mom and Dad had a library room with books and a piano leading from the parlor through an archway. We used to sit on the floor surrounded by encyclopedias. That was a wonderful set. I can still smell them. They had light rose covers, and each book had a beautifully illustrated story or fairy tale in the very beginning of the volume. You know, if they came out with something like that now, maybe our children would be better readers. It sure started all of us!
Rats. I’m rambling. I started writing when my daughter and son-in-law came to spend the Christmas holiday one year. When they arrived, my son-in-law carried in three or four big boxes and set them down at my feet saying, “Merry Christmas, Mom. Now we want you to stop reading all those books and start writing your own.”
Well, now, I couldn’t disappoint them, could I? After New Years, I started researching the Norman Conquest and I was hooked.
Are you a full time writer now? What kind of jobs have you had before pursuing your writing career? Did you have a best or worst job?
Yes, I write full time. I often feel it’s more than full time, because it’s Monday through Sunday. I’m not writing all that time, because the other things that go along with being an author interfere. Web site updating, contests, advertising, answering fan mail, fighting with the computer and cursing the danged thing when it acts up.
I was an executive secretary when I was a young woman, then after we had our girls, I went back to school and went into computer programming. I became a Systems Analyst for a major institution. I wrote systems for mainframe computers, and I loved every minute of it.
I know you are a fairly new published author but you definitely have a following with your wonderful medieval books. How many books do you have out now? Does this include your newest release ALWAYS MINE?
Thank you for calling them wonderful. The stories that are out are part of the Blackthorn Castle trilogy. Always Mine actually began the trilogy, Risk Everything ended it, and yet to be renamed Mereck’s Bride is the middle story.
You were one of the new Zebra Debut authors with your first book, RISK EVERYTHING. Tell us about your road to publication. How long did it take you to be published and how did you become one of the Zebra Debut authors?
When I joined RWA in 2000, I had been writing about a year. I was a Golden Heart finalist in 2002 and seriously started seeking a publisher then. Two years later, I sent Lord of Vengeance to Kensington and two other publishing houses. Hilary Sares called me about two weeks later and offered a contract. I grabbed it, of course, and I am forever grateful that she liked my writing. She was a great editor to work with, very good for a writer’s morale and self-esteem.
By the way, Lord of Vengeance became Risk Everything.
I understand that you love to travel and research the books you write. This time period has always fascinated me and I would love to go tour a castle. How much research do you do for each book and approximately how long does it take you for each book? Have you always been drawn to this time period? Will all your books be medievals or do you have other time periods you want to write about?
I’ve always been drawn to the medieval time period, since those early encyclopedias. I do love to travel, and I’ve spent a lot of time tromping over castle ruins in England, Scotland and Wales. I feel the stones, rub my hands all over the old walls and talk to them. I imagine the people who touched that same spot all those many years ago, and they talk to me. I imagine what those walls have seen. Lydia in Always Mine was doing all I have done when visiting ruins. I don’t have the same empathy for castles of recent centuries, the ones that are still intact and have people living in them or caring for them. They’re too young to have the personality of the people I dream about.
For me to write a tale of love through the ages and do it well, it takes at least eight months. It takes a lot of time to find the right names for characters, sometimes a week before I’m satisfied. I search through medieval names websites, and I mean search. In Risk Everything, the man’s name is Rolf MacDhaidh. Well, someone read the synopsis and snorted. He thought I should have used Ralph.
Tell us about RISK EVERYTHING and your newest release, ALWAYS MINE. I believe they are connected books. Please tell about them and how they are related. Will there be more in this series?
I think I’ve answered this a little. The Scottish characters, Meghan and Damron, are cousins living at Blackthorn Castle where he is Laird. The third book is about Mereck, Damron’s bastard half-brother born just minutes after him. I love Mereck. He’s such a sexy, wonderful man. His story has more humor than the other two books. Mereck can hear people’s thoughts, by the way. Lynette of Wycliff had better watch what she’s thinking around this guy!
How do you keep up with all the pertinent details of your characters and storylines, especially with a series? Your books are so wonderfully rich in detail and make the reader feel like they are right there in medieval times, it must be a huge undertaking to remember all that detail! Do you use a log, notes or perhaps a computer program to help you keep up with all this wonderful information?
I think of my characters first, hunt for pictures in magazines and then make a bulletin board with them. I use 5 X 8 cards and put their name, age, color of hair, eyes and describe their faces, their scents, any oddities on them. I also put their horse or animals names, their banners, all personal info so I can grab a card and see if he has brown or blue or green eyes. I also do a personality sketch using 45 Master Characters by Victoria Lynn Schmidt. I type and print their character study and keep it with the card on the person.
Your characters are so strong and definitely kick a**. I love reading how they interact and butt heads with each other. Is this something you originally planned or did it just the characters develop this way while you were writing? Have they ever surprised you and taken off in another direction than you planned for them to go? If so, what does this do to the story?
I’m so glad you like the strong women. I’ve had two people write that they didn’t like their being so independent and how they fought (I call it standing up to) the hero. I like to think any strong woman who valued herself would react that way to a medieval man and how he tried to treat women.
Yes, I plan them as being women to be reckoned with, but they do develop their full personalities while I’m writing. Oh my, they surprise me all the time. I wrote one beautiful woman into the monk’s story and planned to kill her off toward the end. Well, the blasted woman startled the heck out of me. She wasn’t supposed to be nice, but she went and did something so totally surprising that I didn’t have the heart to kill her. So, she gets her own story in the new Raptor Castle series.
As for the men, I often wanted to whap Rolf alongside his head, kick Damron’s shins and sneak up and pinch Mereck’s wonderful, er, arse.
Are you a strict plotter and outliner or are you more relaxed in your writing style?
I HATE to outline a story and try not to if I can help it. It totally ruins the writing for me. I get the plot formed in my mind and start writing. I guess I’m a seat-of-the-pants writer. I like the surprises the characters give me. I can hear the women giggling and the men growling in the background when they rebel and take off on a tangent. I let them tell me, else they’ll be silent and I can’t find the words to put down. The page would be blank, that terrible white space that makes me panic.
How long goes it take you to write a book? Does this include revisions? Approximately how long does it take for you to see it on the store shelves after you turn it in? Is it different with each book?
Like I mentioned, I need anywhere from eight to ten months before I feel confident to send it out. Risk Everything took eleven months from the time Kensington bought it to the publication date. Then there was thirteen months between it and Always Mine. Mereck’s story is slated to come out fourteen months afterward in December of 2007.
What was your reaction to seeing your first book on the store shelves? I know I would have been over the moon!
It’s a wonderful feeling, but kind of unreal? I’m an awful introvert. I’d love to be bold enough to pick my book up off a shelf, hold it high in the air and holler, “Hey, you! People! This is MY book. Come buy it. You’ll really love the sexy stuff!”
What else are you working on? Any more to the current series or have you started something totally new? Any idea when we can look forward to another book by you? Hope it’s soon! They are definitely worth waiting for!
I’ve started a new series that isn’t under contract yet. Masked Desires, a monk’s story, begins the Raptor Castle tales. I’m planning on four books, starting with Masked Desires then Beloved Sacrifice, Honor Bound and Dreams Fulfilled. Four major characters demand their stories to be told, and I’m trying to accommodate them. Maybe then they’ll let me sleep.
What do you do for fun? Any special treats or hobbies you like to indulge in after a hard day?
Now and then we take a day to browse around antique shops with Gil, my brother and his wife. Sometimes we go into Ocala for dinner with them, or out to breakfast with friends. My husband takes charge of food, else we’d starve to death. I forget to eat unless he cooks and calls me to dinner. Indulge? I love peanut butter cups, but I’ll only allow myself one. Those things are habit forming. If I’m depressed, I’ll forget my control and grab two or three.
Give us an example of a typical day in your life. Do you try to keep to a specific writing schedule or number of pages written per day?
We get up usually around 6:30, not because I want to, but Gil’s golf times are usually early. If he’s not playing, he’s helping to build houses with Habit for Humanity and has to be there early. He’s free Wednesday and Sunday, so we sleep until 8:00. Yippee! Uh, that’s if the dogs let us..
MWF I go to Curves for 45 minutes, and I’m usually in here by 9:30 or 10:00. I try to at least write five pages a day once I start a ms. It all depends, though. Lately, everything seems to get in the way.
If you had one piece of advice to give to a writer just starting out, what would it be?
If you think it’s going to be easy, forget it. It isn’t, but don’t be discouraged. Anything worth having is worth fighting for. So be stubborn. I have a quote on the bottom of my terminal. Want to know what it is? Too bad if you don’t. I’m going to tell you anyway.
You have to have confidence in your ability, and then be tough enough to follow through by Rosalyn Carter. I should have it tattooed to my forehead.
Sophia, thanks so much for stopping by to chat with us. It’s really been fun! Continued good luck in your writing career!
The fun’s been all mine. Thanks for letting me talk my head off.
You can learn more about Sophia Johnson and her wonderful books at her website. http://www.sophiajohnson.com
Be sure to stop in tonight and tomorrow while Sophia guest blogs with us! We love your comments.
I'll be giving away a goodie bag to one winner of the people to blog with us. What are you waiting for? Invite your friends and have fun!
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Toni Blake Blogs!!
GET SWEPT AWAY WITH TONI BLAKE AT THE BEACH
Hello there! First, I want to thank Debbie for inviting me to do a guest blog! Second, I’m thrilled to tell you that my novel, SWEPT AWAY, released on September 1, is the first full-length novel launching the steamy new Avon Red line! I’m super-happy about that honor and pleased with all the attention the book is getting!
What’s perhaps best of all is that this is truly a book of my heart. If you, by chance, haven’t heard that phrase before, it’s how authors sometimes refer to books they were really, really, really moved by and energized by and just HAD to write. Since sometimes in this business marketing trends and editors can occasionally end up dictating what directions your books take. Yeah, sad but true.
Now, fortunately for me, most of my books have totally been books of my heart, and as I said, SWEPT AWAY falls into that category. The only bad thing is, people keep asking me what inspired the book. And I think about all the deep, profound things I could say – like how the central message of the book is that marriage is sacred, or how it was Kat’s (my heroine) search for self, etc. etc. But what it comes down to is this:
I love the beach! I love the sun, I love the sand, I love the surf, I love everything about it (well, okay, except for the unpleasant things you sometimes find like dead, decomposing jellyfish – but fear not, I didn’t put any of those in the book ; ) )
So what inspired the book is simply: the beach. I think it’s a super-sensual setting (lots of glistening skin at the beach, after all) and the idea of putting two people with a “past” together on a private island and stranding them there strongly appealed : ) The rest grew from there and I’m proud to say this is actually my favorite book I’ve written – at least so far. Which proves, I guess, that you don’t have to have a deep, profound nugget of inspiration to turn out a story you love.
So … what places or settings most inspire YOU? Beaches? Mountains? A wintery landscape? And what are your favorite settings in romance novels? Inquiring authors want to know! ; )
I’m writing this about ten days before you’re reading it, by the way. I’ll be winging my way back from the Canadian Rockies right about that time, so Debbie has kindly offered to post this for me. But I’ll be popping in to see your responses and answer any questions! And I want to again thank Debbie for inviting me!
Interview with Toni Blake
Deb’s interview with Toni Blake
Toni, welcome and thank you for taking time to chat with us.
Tell us a bit about yourself. Your background, family, pets, etc…
Hey Debbie, thanks so much for the interview! About me – I grew up as an only child in a rural area in Kentucky, where I hated farmwork and wanted nothing more than to be a writer. So I’m pretty thrilled that worked out! ; ) Now I live in a suburb of Cincinnati, where I’m happily married with no kids or pets, and glad I can get milk or gas only two minutes from home ; )
For our readers unfamiliar with your work, tell us what kind of books you write.
I write super sexy romances with lots of emotion and fairly layered, complex plots. For the record, my current book is being billed as “erotica,” but that’s only because the word erotica seems to be taking on new definitions. Yes, my book is super hot, super steamy – but the same kind of book I’ve been writing the past few years, so for people who keep asking me why I switched to something new, I didn’t ; )
How did you get started in your romance writing career? Was this something you always dreamed of or did it evolve over time?
I always dreamed of being a writer, from the age of 10, but the romance part didn’t come until about ten years ago. I was writing literary fiction at the time, and finding modest success with short stories, poetry, and articles – but I wanted to be a novelist, and my novels weren’t getting any interest. A good friend and fellow writer shoved Jenny Crusie’s first 3 books into my hand and said, “This is what you should be writing.” I’d never really read romance before, but I was open-minded. And as soon as I saw how smart, funny, and sexy romance could be, I immediately knew she was right – this was what I should be writing.
What was your first published work and when did it come out?
THE CINDERELLA SCHEME was published by Kensington’s Precious Gems line in June 1998.
How many lines have you or do you currently write for?
Well, I’ve been around ; )
After writing three Precious Gems for Kensington, I moved to Harlequin, where I wrote three books for Temptation and one Duets. From there, I wrote two novels for Warner Forever, and a novella for Signet Eclipse. And now I’m at Avon, currently writing for the new Red line.
How many books do you have out now and does this include your newest September 06 release SWEPT AWAY ?
SWEPT AWAY is my eleventh novel. Although only the more recent books are still available – which is just the nature of the business, unfortunately.
I’ve heard some great things about your new release SWEPT AWAY. Please tell us a bit about it and when we can expect it. What format will it be released in? Mass market, trade size, etc…
Yay! I’m glad to hear you’re hearing good things, since I’m super-excited about this book! It will be released the first of September in trade paperback format and it’s the first full-length novel launching the steamy Avon Red line.
It’s the story of Kat Spencer, who is luxuriating on a private island and ruminating on her upcoming wedding – when a man from her past literally washes up onto the beach. She’d once tried to seduce him and failed, leaving her humiliated. Now, they’re stranded on the island and this time he’s trying to seduce her. Oh, and there are bad guys chasing them, too. So it’s action-packed and a lot of fun, but also very sexy and emotional.
Readers can find an excerpt and reviews of the book at http://www.toniblake.com/, so I hope they’ll stop by for a visit!
What was it like seeing your first book on the store shelf? Hope you had a grand celebration!
Indeed, there’s nothing quite like that and I remember it well. It’s a huge feeling of, “I did it! I really did it!” I had a booksigning in my hometown and sold about 75 copies of the book, which was phenomenal and great fun.
Have you always written under the name of Toni Blake? If not, what other name did you use and what do you have published under this name? Do you thing these books will ever be republished under the Toni Blake name?
Actually, those first three Precious Gems books were written as Toni Blair. Blair is my husband’s name, and I liked the sound of our names together. But by the time I sold to Harlequin, Tony Blair the Prime Minister was a lot more visible in the news than he had been a couple of years before and Harlequin wanted me to change my name – so Toni Blake I became ; )
It would be fabulous to see those books republished someday, but I have no idea if it will ever happen ; )
Tell us a bit about your writing process. What usually gives you the spark of an idea for a story? People, places, events or is it different with each character and book? Are your characters ever based on real people or events? Do your characters ever take off in a direction you hadn’t planned for them to go?
For me, it’s no one particular thing. Sometimes it’s a character that pops into my head, or a scenario. Often, it is about setting for me – I tend to get a lot of ideas when I travel, and I’ve always heard traveling increases creativity, so that makes sense. And no, I never base characters on anyone real. I sometimes think they all must, in some way, be a part of me, or I couldn’t create them – but more often, I think of a writer like an actor, portraying the character as they need to be portrayed to tell the story. As for them going off in their own directions – yes, in small ways, but seldom in big ones, so it turns out more fun than frustrating for me, I’m happy to say.
What kind of writer are you? Do you plot and outline your books to the last detail and follow that religiously or do you have a more relaxed form of writing? How do you keep up with the pertinent details of your story? Do you use notes or a log of some sort to keep track?
I’m a definite hard-core plotter, but not to the last detail. I know where the story is going and how it’s basically going to get there, but the rest comes as I write. As for notes or logs, afraid not – I try to store it all in my head and then find myself going back and searching the manuscript to see what color someone’s eyes were or what I named a minor character who needs to be mentioned again. Not the most efficient way, but it’s how I do it ; )
Is there any certain atmosphere you like to create before you start writing?
Not really. I just like peace and quiet so I can sink into the story and concentrate.
Give us an idea of the research you do for your books. I know you and your DH do a lot of traveling. Do you use some of these travels as research for your books? Do you have a favorite area that you prefer to set you books in?
I do whatever kind of research I must ; ) Sometimes, if I’m lucky, I find someone who can answer questions for me. For instance, in SWEPT AWAY, the hero, Brock, is an FBI Agent and he’s on the job during the story. Author Maggie Price, who has a police background and a husband and brother who are policemen, was invaluable in helping me figure out some of the action/intrigue parts of the plot. And author Sue-Ellen Welfonder and her agent, Roberta Brown, helped me with their insider knowledge of Naples, Florida, where part of the story is set.
When I can’t find friends who have the answers I need, I hit the Internet or the library and do my best.
And yes, I do research when traveling, too – but that’s usually more about observation. Looking for a great place to set a scene and taking in the details, that kind of thing. Although when I was writing IN YOUR WILDEST DREAMS, I traveled to New Orleans specifically for research and got all my questions answered.
As for a favorite area, hard to say. I love the beach and set both SWEPT AWAY and THE RED DIARY there. And the New Orleans backdrop was a favorite. But overall, I like to move my settings around – I think it keeps things fresh for me.
I know you wrote some terrific category romances before you switched to single title books. What made you take the leap to write the longer, sexier books? Was it a hard transition to make and do you enjoy writing one style more than the other? Will you be writing more category romances in the future?
Well, the transition came naturally, in a way. My agent at the time really felt I was cut out for single title, and my editors at Harlequin, indeed, felt I leaned toward more complex books than fit easily into the category world. I myself liked writing both lengths, but I definitely enjoy the freedom single title provides and I have no plans at this time to write more category books. Although I would enjoy doing more novellas if the opportunity permits.
Is there any other genre of book you would like to write in the future?
I have written a few historical romances and I would adore breaking into that sub-genre someday.
Are you a big reader? Could you share some of your favorite authors and books with us?
I’d like to read more than I do – deadlines and publicity keep me pretty busy these days, I’m afraid.
But when I do have time, let’s see … I love Barbara Samuel and Judith Ivory and Teresa Medeiros – but mostly, I read across the board, no particular author, just whatever looks good. Oh, and I love Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series – and before anyone asks the next obvious question about that: I think Ranger is a lot of hot fun, but Joe is the guy she belongs with in the end ; )
Do you think your writing has been influenced by any other authors or person in your life?
Wow, big question. Other authors – I think very early on I was influenced by Judy Blume, and later, when I was writing literary stuff, Sherman Alexie and Louise Erdrich. In romance, Jenny Crusie definitely. Also Terri Medeiros and Kathleen Eagle. The one thing I think all these authors taught me was about emotion. Sometimes comedy, too, but mostly that it’s about making the reader FEEL something.
And as an aside: One great thing about this business, you oftentimes get to know your idols! I’m pleased to say I can count Jenny Crusie, Terri Medeiros, and Sherman Alexie as friends – so that’s a very cool thing.
What do you do for fun? Do you have any hobbies that you find time to indulge in? Do you have any special treats you give yourself, like chocolate or a shopping spree, after a hard day or week?
I guess the special treats I give myself are my hobbies.
I’m way into crafts – I’m an avid scrapbooker and counted cross-stitcher, and I’m proud to say I just finished my first quilt, every stitch by hand. I hope to do more and have already designed a couple of appliqué quilts. I’ve dabbled in crocheting – which made it into IN YOUR WILDEST DREAMS – and right now I’m dabbling in some woodcrafts and jewelry-making. I’m also into genealogy – I’ve researched all the branches of my family and have an extensive website with my findings. I’m kind of just all about “creating” – whether it’s books or quilts : )
Give us an example of your typical day. Do you try to keep to a specific writing schedule or a certain number of pages written per day?
I write every day – usually from 8 to 2, when I break for lunch and watch All My Children, which I tape in order to cut out commercials. Then I work again from about 2:45 til 6 or 7. I’m a fast writer, so on a good day I can get out anywhere from 15 to 30 pages. But once you factor in e-mail, publicity, and things like doctor’s appointments, hair appointments, errands, etc., etc., the whole schedule ends up changing a lot more than I like. The wonderful thing I’m grateful for is having the freedom to change it ; )
If you had a piece of advice to give to a new writer, what would it be?
Don’t give up. Most people do. If you don’t, and if you learn your craft, you’ll get there. I firmly believe that.
Toni, thanks so much for coming by to chat with us. Continued good luck with your wonderful books!
Thank you, Debbie, for a great interview! I really enjoyed it!
I'm happy to say that Toni with be blogging with us tomorrow. I will post her blog for her and then she will be popping in for comments and questions. Please give a big welcome to this wonderful writer!
Toni, welcome and thank you for taking time to chat with us.
Tell us a bit about yourself. Your background, family, pets, etc…
Hey Debbie, thanks so much for the interview! About me – I grew up as an only child in a rural area in Kentucky, where I hated farmwork and wanted nothing more than to be a writer. So I’m pretty thrilled that worked out! ; ) Now I live in a suburb of Cincinnati, where I’m happily married with no kids or pets, and glad I can get milk or gas only two minutes from home ; )
For our readers unfamiliar with your work, tell us what kind of books you write.
I write super sexy romances with lots of emotion and fairly layered, complex plots. For the record, my current book is being billed as “erotica,” but that’s only because the word erotica seems to be taking on new definitions. Yes, my book is super hot, super steamy – but the same kind of book I’ve been writing the past few years, so for people who keep asking me why I switched to something new, I didn’t ; )
How did you get started in your romance writing career? Was this something you always dreamed of or did it evolve over time?
I always dreamed of being a writer, from the age of 10, but the romance part didn’t come until about ten years ago. I was writing literary fiction at the time, and finding modest success with short stories, poetry, and articles – but I wanted to be a novelist, and my novels weren’t getting any interest. A good friend and fellow writer shoved Jenny Crusie’s first 3 books into my hand and said, “This is what you should be writing.” I’d never really read romance before, but I was open-minded. And as soon as I saw how smart, funny, and sexy romance could be, I immediately knew she was right – this was what I should be writing.
What was your first published work and when did it come out?
THE CINDERELLA SCHEME was published by Kensington’s Precious Gems line in June 1998.
How many lines have you or do you currently write for?
Well, I’ve been around ; )
After writing three Precious Gems for Kensington, I moved to Harlequin, where I wrote three books for Temptation and one Duets. From there, I wrote two novels for Warner Forever, and a novella for Signet Eclipse. And now I’m at Avon, currently writing for the new Red line.
How many books do you have out now and does this include your newest September 06 release SWEPT AWAY ?
SWEPT AWAY is my eleventh novel. Although only the more recent books are still available – which is just the nature of the business, unfortunately.
I’ve heard some great things about your new release SWEPT AWAY. Please tell us a bit about it and when we can expect it. What format will it be released in? Mass market, trade size, etc…
Yay! I’m glad to hear you’re hearing good things, since I’m super-excited about this book! It will be released the first of September in trade paperback format and it’s the first full-length novel launching the steamy Avon Red line.
It’s the story of Kat Spencer, who is luxuriating on a private island and ruminating on her upcoming wedding – when a man from her past literally washes up onto the beach. She’d once tried to seduce him and failed, leaving her humiliated. Now, they’re stranded on the island and this time he’s trying to seduce her. Oh, and there are bad guys chasing them, too. So it’s action-packed and a lot of fun, but also very sexy and emotional.
Readers can find an excerpt and reviews of the book at http://www.toniblake.com/, so I hope they’ll stop by for a visit!
What was it like seeing your first book on the store shelf? Hope you had a grand celebration!
Indeed, there’s nothing quite like that and I remember it well. It’s a huge feeling of, “I did it! I really did it!” I had a booksigning in my hometown and sold about 75 copies of the book, which was phenomenal and great fun.
Have you always written under the name of Toni Blake? If not, what other name did you use and what do you have published under this name? Do you thing these books will ever be republished under the Toni Blake name?
Actually, those first three Precious Gems books were written as Toni Blair. Blair is my husband’s name, and I liked the sound of our names together. But by the time I sold to Harlequin, Tony Blair the Prime Minister was a lot more visible in the news than he had been a couple of years before and Harlequin wanted me to change my name – so Toni Blake I became ; )
It would be fabulous to see those books republished someday, but I have no idea if it will ever happen ; )
Tell us a bit about your writing process. What usually gives you the spark of an idea for a story? People, places, events or is it different with each character and book? Are your characters ever based on real people or events? Do your characters ever take off in a direction you hadn’t planned for them to go?
For me, it’s no one particular thing. Sometimes it’s a character that pops into my head, or a scenario. Often, it is about setting for me – I tend to get a lot of ideas when I travel, and I’ve always heard traveling increases creativity, so that makes sense. And no, I never base characters on anyone real. I sometimes think they all must, in some way, be a part of me, or I couldn’t create them – but more often, I think of a writer like an actor, portraying the character as they need to be portrayed to tell the story. As for them going off in their own directions – yes, in small ways, but seldom in big ones, so it turns out more fun than frustrating for me, I’m happy to say.
What kind of writer are you? Do you plot and outline your books to the last detail and follow that religiously or do you have a more relaxed form of writing? How do you keep up with the pertinent details of your story? Do you use notes or a log of some sort to keep track?
I’m a definite hard-core plotter, but not to the last detail. I know where the story is going and how it’s basically going to get there, but the rest comes as I write. As for notes or logs, afraid not – I try to store it all in my head and then find myself going back and searching the manuscript to see what color someone’s eyes were or what I named a minor character who needs to be mentioned again. Not the most efficient way, but it’s how I do it ; )
Is there any certain atmosphere you like to create before you start writing?
Not really. I just like peace and quiet so I can sink into the story and concentrate.
Give us an idea of the research you do for your books. I know you and your DH do a lot of traveling. Do you use some of these travels as research for your books? Do you have a favorite area that you prefer to set you books in?
I do whatever kind of research I must ; ) Sometimes, if I’m lucky, I find someone who can answer questions for me. For instance, in SWEPT AWAY, the hero, Brock, is an FBI Agent and he’s on the job during the story. Author Maggie Price, who has a police background and a husband and brother who are policemen, was invaluable in helping me figure out some of the action/intrigue parts of the plot. And author Sue-Ellen Welfonder and her agent, Roberta Brown, helped me with their insider knowledge of Naples, Florida, where part of the story is set.
When I can’t find friends who have the answers I need, I hit the Internet or the library and do my best.
And yes, I do research when traveling, too – but that’s usually more about observation. Looking for a great place to set a scene and taking in the details, that kind of thing. Although when I was writing IN YOUR WILDEST DREAMS, I traveled to New Orleans specifically for research and got all my questions answered.
As for a favorite area, hard to say. I love the beach and set both SWEPT AWAY and THE RED DIARY there. And the New Orleans backdrop was a favorite. But overall, I like to move my settings around – I think it keeps things fresh for me.
I know you wrote some terrific category romances before you switched to single title books. What made you take the leap to write the longer, sexier books? Was it a hard transition to make and do you enjoy writing one style more than the other? Will you be writing more category romances in the future?
Well, the transition came naturally, in a way. My agent at the time really felt I was cut out for single title, and my editors at Harlequin, indeed, felt I leaned toward more complex books than fit easily into the category world. I myself liked writing both lengths, but I definitely enjoy the freedom single title provides and I have no plans at this time to write more category books. Although I would enjoy doing more novellas if the opportunity permits.
Is there any other genre of book you would like to write in the future?
I have written a few historical romances and I would adore breaking into that sub-genre someday.
Are you a big reader? Could you share some of your favorite authors and books with us?
I’d like to read more than I do – deadlines and publicity keep me pretty busy these days, I’m afraid.
But when I do have time, let’s see … I love Barbara Samuel and Judith Ivory and Teresa Medeiros – but mostly, I read across the board, no particular author, just whatever looks good. Oh, and I love Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series – and before anyone asks the next obvious question about that: I think Ranger is a lot of hot fun, but Joe is the guy she belongs with in the end ; )
Do you think your writing has been influenced by any other authors or person in your life?
Wow, big question. Other authors – I think very early on I was influenced by Judy Blume, and later, when I was writing literary stuff, Sherman Alexie and Louise Erdrich. In romance, Jenny Crusie definitely. Also Terri Medeiros and Kathleen Eagle. The one thing I think all these authors taught me was about emotion. Sometimes comedy, too, but mostly that it’s about making the reader FEEL something.
And as an aside: One great thing about this business, you oftentimes get to know your idols! I’m pleased to say I can count Jenny Crusie, Terri Medeiros, and Sherman Alexie as friends – so that’s a very cool thing.
What do you do for fun? Do you have any hobbies that you find time to indulge in? Do you have any special treats you give yourself, like chocolate or a shopping spree, after a hard day or week?
I guess the special treats I give myself are my hobbies.
I’m way into crafts – I’m an avid scrapbooker and counted cross-stitcher, and I’m proud to say I just finished my first quilt, every stitch by hand. I hope to do more and have already designed a couple of appliqué quilts. I’ve dabbled in crocheting – which made it into IN YOUR WILDEST DREAMS – and right now I’m dabbling in some woodcrafts and jewelry-making. I’m also into genealogy – I’ve researched all the branches of my family and have an extensive website with my findings. I’m kind of just all about “creating” – whether it’s books or quilts : )
Give us an example of your typical day. Do you try to keep to a specific writing schedule or a certain number of pages written per day?
I write every day – usually from 8 to 2, when I break for lunch and watch All My Children, which I tape in order to cut out commercials. Then I work again from about 2:45 til 6 or 7. I’m a fast writer, so on a good day I can get out anywhere from 15 to 30 pages. But once you factor in e-mail, publicity, and things like doctor’s appointments, hair appointments, errands, etc., etc., the whole schedule ends up changing a lot more than I like. The wonderful thing I’m grateful for is having the freedom to change it ; )
If you had a piece of advice to give to a new writer, what would it be?
Don’t give up. Most people do. If you don’t, and if you learn your craft, you’ll get there. I firmly believe that.
Toni, thanks so much for coming by to chat with us. Continued good luck with your wonderful books!
Thank you, Debbie, for a great interview! I really enjoyed it!
I'm happy to say that Toni with be blogging with us tomorrow. I will post her blog for her and then she will be popping in for comments and questions. Please give a big welcome to this wonderful writer!
Let's Say Hello to Toni Blake!
Toni, Welcome to my little corner of the world!
I had the good fortune to meet Toni and share a ride to Atlanta RWA conference and I found her to be a smart, witty and a fun companion to ride with. She has an infectious laugh that you can't help join in with, even with they are teasing you! I found this out when I made the innocent comment of I Like Books! This comment set off peals of laughter in the whole car, with a comment from Nikki, our other companion, that she never would have imagines. Two authors and a bookseller, on the way to the RWA conference and I like books. Oh well, what can I say. I am a book addict! I love reading, especially romance and I love talking about books. I love hearing the authors talk about their books and how they came to write them and what they want to write in the future. The whole process is facinating with me and I hope to learn from many more of you wonderful writers, published or not!
Toni, graciously gave me an interview which I will be posting later today and then tomorrow I will post a blog from Toni, which she will then take questions and comments. I hope you will all welcome Toni to my blog!
Thanks!
Deb
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Why I write...
Hello all! What an honor to be the first passenger on board Debbie's new blogging adventure. I'm delighted to be here in cyberland with all of you -- I saw lots of names I recognized in the "comments" section and many new ones, too. I wondered this week what I could possibly tell you that would be new, different and of interest to Debbie's diverse audience, since that in-depth interview basically told you everything about me except what color underwear I wear. (Pink.) Then I had a booksigning last night and I knew exactly what I wanted to tell you.
I want to tell you why I write. I realized it last night, when I looked out to a sea of always enthusiastic faces -- my "village" of supporters who dutifully turn out for my one big local signing I hold to celebrate the release of a new book. This one was made even more exciting and special because I invited three other author friends -- Leslie Kelly, Rachel Hauck and Karen Hawkins -- to sign with me and we pretty much had that B&N jammin' for two solid hours last night. (Kristen Painter was there -- looking stunning, as always!)
Each time I've held one of these signing/party events, I'm overwhelmed and touched and oh so humbled by how many people show up in support of my work. Granted, I'm "aggressive" in inviting them. I carry invitations everywhere the month before my signing, I invite strangers, friends, school moms, the person sitting next to me in the hair salon -- basically everyone I meet. No doubt there are plenty of friends who know I'm terrified the place will be empty and I'll be sitting in front of a stack of my books doing no more than giving directions to the cookbook section when someone walks in the door. But there are also just as many people who show up because they are a little in awe of what I do. And that is why I write.
Not to "awe" anyone, but because I've been given a gift that fascinates people who are, in my opinion, far more talented than I am. One of my neighbors, an anesthesiologist, is enthralled with my job. Where do you get the ideas? she asks. How do you know what to write? I want to say: where do you get the nerves of steel to keep seven people alive during surgery - in one day's work? The same from another friend, a high-powered attorney who runs her own firm. She loves my books and comes to every signing to buy several for her staff. How do you dream up these great heroes, she wants to know. How do you stand in front of a judge and jury and fight for someone's Constitutional rights, I want to respond.
The fact is, people are mesmerized by the ability to tell a story, to write a book, to create a world and make something extraordinary happen in it. Such a simple skill...to me. But not to everyone. So I write because some twist of DNA fate sprinkled storytelling dust on me during my conception. I don't write for the fame and fortune and glory...because, face it, I don't have any. I don't write because it's fun...every word is sheer torture and anyone who tells you differently is lying to you or themselves. I don't write because I want to lock myself in my office during gorgeous summer days and make stuff up and then delete it, make more stuff up, then delete it, make more stuff up, and then go back and read one of my earlier books just to reassure myself that I can do this. I surely don't write because I have characters longing to get out of my head, like I've heard other writers say. I have to dig to my own personal China to find those people, and sometimes they just don't want to tell me their hair color, let alone their deepest backstory, so I have to figure it out. I don't write because I want to be the next Nora Roberts, or because I want a mile-long line at my booksigning, or because I think it will get me on the Today Show. Honestly, I know that's all about as likely as winning the lottery (which doesn't stop me from buying a ticket every week.)
Nope. I write because I can. And when I realized that, I couldn't stop. Nothing could stop me.
Although I wrote for much of my career in PR, my work consisted of drafting annual reports, press releases, CEO's speeches and the occasional line of fun ad copy. I harbored a very secret dream to write romantic fiction -- what I loved to read -- but it just didn't seem like mere mortals could do something like that. One night, in 1999, I finished NOBODY'S BABY BUT MINE by Susan Elizabeth Phillips. When I closed that fantastic, delicious novel, I had one thought: I want to make someone else feel the way I do right now. I want to take this ride again, but this time, I'd like to drive. Can I? Do I have it in me?
And so, right then and there, I decided to try. Just try. For kicks, for a challenge. I'd love to say "the rest is history" but it was basically hell. :-) The story of how I sold and my brief career since my first book came out in 2003 (I'm now at 12) is not that fascinating (as a storyteller, I instinctively know that) but if you want to know, just ask. This is a hard job -- ask any working writer. The glam moments (like last night) are rare. The hair-tearing moments (like every working day) are common. But when I hand a book to that doctor, that lawyer, that mom I chat with in the car line at school...I am thrilled by the prospect of entertaining her with my story, delighted with the idea that I can make this lady fall in love with my hero, be scared by my villain, and relate to my heroine. That's why I write. Because I can, and that in and of itself is a simply marvelous gift that I treasure. And there's nothing in the world that's better than hearing from readers that I've succeeded in sweeping them away. (Remember that: feed an insecure author, write an email!) That is almost as good as that sea of faces I love at the booksigning -- thanks to each and every one of you who came out to celebrate!
And now I'm going to drag myself to the opposite end of life's spectrum...from the rush of signing 75 books to the challenge of hosting a Spa Sleepover tonight for my daughter's ninth birthday (today!). Eight little girls will be here for 15 endless hours tonight and tomorrow -- along with one professional manicurist, who is also one of my close friends -- and we will paint, glitter, gloss and celebrate that passage from lisping baby to eye-rolling tween in the girliest possible way. In the meantime, I will pop in here to read comments and questions and answer anything you'd like to know about writing, reading...and being the mother of a nine year old girlie girl.
Thanks for joining me!
xoxo
Rocki
www.roxannestclaire.com
I want to tell you why I write. I realized it last night, when I looked out to a sea of always enthusiastic faces -- my "village" of supporters who dutifully turn out for my one big local signing I hold to celebrate the release of a new book. This one was made even more exciting and special because I invited three other author friends -- Leslie Kelly, Rachel Hauck and Karen Hawkins -- to sign with me and we pretty much had that B&N jammin' for two solid hours last night. (Kristen Painter was there -- looking stunning, as always!)
Each time I've held one of these signing/party events, I'm overwhelmed and touched and oh so humbled by how many people show up in support of my work. Granted, I'm "aggressive" in inviting them. I carry invitations everywhere the month before my signing, I invite strangers, friends, school moms, the person sitting next to me in the hair salon -- basically everyone I meet. No doubt there are plenty of friends who know I'm terrified the place will be empty and I'll be sitting in front of a stack of my books doing no more than giving directions to the cookbook section when someone walks in the door. But there are also just as many people who show up because they are a little in awe of what I do. And that is why I write.
Not to "awe" anyone, but because I've been given a gift that fascinates people who are, in my opinion, far more talented than I am. One of my neighbors, an anesthesiologist, is enthralled with my job. Where do you get the ideas? she asks. How do you know what to write? I want to say: where do you get the nerves of steel to keep seven people alive during surgery - in one day's work? The same from another friend, a high-powered attorney who runs her own firm. She loves my books and comes to every signing to buy several for her staff. How do you dream up these great heroes, she wants to know. How do you stand in front of a judge and jury and fight for someone's Constitutional rights, I want to respond.
The fact is, people are mesmerized by the ability to tell a story, to write a book, to create a world and make something extraordinary happen in it. Such a simple skill...to me. But not to everyone. So I write because some twist of DNA fate sprinkled storytelling dust on me during my conception. I don't write for the fame and fortune and glory...because, face it, I don't have any. I don't write because it's fun...every word is sheer torture and anyone who tells you differently is lying to you or themselves. I don't write because I want to lock myself in my office during gorgeous summer days and make stuff up and then delete it, make more stuff up, then delete it, make more stuff up, and then go back and read one of my earlier books just to reassure myself that I can do this. I surely don't write because I have characters longing to get out of my head, like I've heard other writers say. I have to dig to my own personal China to find those people, and sometimes they just don't want to tell me their hair color, let alone their deepest backstory, so I have to figure it out. I don't write because I want to be the next Nora Roberts, or because I want a mile-long line at my booksigning, or because I think it will get me on the Today Show. Honestly, I know that's all about as likely as winning the lottery (which doesn't stop me from buying a ticket every week.)
Nope. I write because I can. And when I realized that, I couldn't stop. Nothing could stop me.
Although I wrote for much of my career in PR, my work consisted of drafting annual reports, press releases, CEO's speeches and the occasional line of fun ad copy. I harbored a very secret dream to write romantic fiction -- what I loved to read -- but it just didn't seem like mere mortals could do something like that. One night, in 1999, I finished NOBODY'S BABY BUT MINE by Susan Elizabeth Phillips. When I closed that fantastic, delicious novel, I had one thought: I want to make someone else feel the way I do right now. I want to take this ride again, but this time, I'd like to drive. Can I? Do I have it in me?
And so, right then and there, I decided to try. Just try. For kicks, for a challenge. I'd love to say "the rest is history" but it was basically hell. :-) The story of how I sold and my brief career since my first book came out in 2003 (I'm now at 12) is not that fascinating (as a storyteller, I instinctively know that) but if you want to know, just ask. This is a hard job -- ask any working writer. The glam moments (like last night) are rare. The hair-tearing moments (like every working day) are common. But when I hand a book to that doctor, that lawyer, that mom I chat with in the car line at school...I am thrilled by the prospect of entertaining her with my story, delighted with the idea that I can make this lady fall in love with my hero, be scared by my villain, and relate to my heroine. That's why I write. Because I can, and that in and of itself is a simply marvelous gift that I treasure. And there's nothing in the world that's better than hearing from readers that I've succeeded in sweeping them away. (Remember that: feed an insecure author, write an email!) That is almost as good as that sea of faces I love at the booksigning -- thanks to each and every one of you who came out to celebrate!
And now I'm going to drag myself to the opposite end of life's spectrum...from the rush of signing 75 books to the challenge of hosting a Spa Sleepover tonight for my daughter's ninth birthday (today!). Eight little girls will be here for 15 endless hours tonight and tomorrow -- along with one professional manicurist, who is also one of my close friends -- and we will paint, glitter, gloss and celebrate that passage from lisping baby to eye-rolling tween in the girliest possible way. In the meantime, I will pop in here to read comments and questions and answer anything you'd like to know about writing, reading...and being the mother of a nine year old girlie girl.
Thanks for joining me!
xoxo
Rocki
www.roxannestclaire.com
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Interview with Roxanne St Claire
I had the good fortune to be referred to Roxanne by the wonderful Nancy Berland. She sent me one of her books and I was so impressed I had to do an interview. Then I was able to meet this wonderful lady in person at the Atlanta RWA conference. She is just a friendly and nice in person as she is in her emails, not to mention so pretty!
Hope that you will enjoy our interview. Feel free to let us know what you think and if you would like to see more interviews here on the blog.
Now without further ado......INTERVIEW WITH ROXANNE ST. CLAIRE
Roxanne, Welcome to Deb's. We are so happy to have you with us!
Thank you! I’m delighted to be here to share my love for writing and romance.
First of all, please tell us a bit about yourself. Your family, background, etc.
That could be a long answer! I am a full-time writer, a mother of two (9 year old Mia & 13 year old Dante), happily married to a very funny, sexy, adorable guy (who cooks!), living on the east coast of Florida, following my lifelong dream of writing novels. Before I started writing, I spent 18 years in public relations and I’ve lived in Pittsburgh, L.A., Boston, and Miami. Oh, and this year I became a dog owner for the first time in my life and I am officially converted – I adore that doggie! She’s taught me a whole new kind of love and has really completed our little family.
For our readers not familiar with your wonderful work, tell us what kind of books you write.
I write in multiple genres – romantic suspense, short and long contemporary romance and chick lit. No matter what I write, I want the story to take the reader on a ride – a fun, wild, fast, surprising, compelling, sexy, humorous, emotional trip that makes them feel great when it’s over. That’s what I look for in a book, and that’s what I hope to deliver with every one I write.
Do you enjoy writing one style of book better than another or are they all enjoyable for you?
Some books are just more fun and easier to write than others, and it has nothing to do with the genre and everything to do with the magic of the idea and the characters. Writing a romantic suspense is very difficult because of the layers, the subplots, the loose threads that must be tied into a bow and my own determination to surprise and scare the reader while they are taking that romantic ride toward a happy ending. Writing a short contemp, like a Desire, is a wholly different kind of challenge – I want to keep it fast and fun and flirtatious, but not frivolous. There’s still an important story to tell, even if there isn’t a dead body anywhere in sight. I’ve only done one chick lit and it was so much fun! I would like to do another but haven’t had a chance to develop any ideas since the Bullet Catchers (my romantic suspense series) keep me busy, and I’ve had some opportunities to write some series books for Silhouette and Harlequin that were just to tempting to pass up.
Do you enjoy writing connected books? How do you keep with up with all the pertinent information on your recurring characters? Do you keep a log or perhaps a computer program to keep up with all the character info?
I’ve only started a truly connected series with the launch of the Bullet Catchers – an elite cadre of high end, superhot, fantastically talented bodyguards and security specialists run by a very cool former CIA agent. The first, KILL ME TWICE came out last year; the second, THRILL ME TO DEATH is out this summer. There are several more planned, including TAKE ME TONIGHT, which comes out next spring and more. I am starting to keep computer logs of each character I introduce because my memory is notoriously bad!
How long does it take you to write a book, including any research you do? Does it vary with each book according to the research needed? Do you have a favorite type of research or materials to use?
Each book is different and the amount of time is directly related to how well I know the story and characters before I start. Although my books ALWAYS change from synopsis to final product, sometimes my vision is really clear and sometimes I have to just trust my gut. I do try to produce at least four books a year, but some of those are short contemporaries or novellas.
Approximately how long does it take for you to see a book on the store shelves after you have completed it? Does this include any revisions or re-writes?
It takes between six and nine months from submission to release, depending on the publisher. Of course, I will see the manuscript many times after I first send it in. My editor may ask for revisions, and I review line and copy edits, galleys and page proofs. With one of my publishers, I’m very involved in the cover concepts and back cover copy, with the other I just see the packaging when it goes up on amazon!
How long have you been writing? Was this something you have always dreamed of doing? Did this evolve gradually or did you just jump right into writing?
I’ve written fiction my whole life, since I first got a typewriter for my 12th birthday. I’ve only ever written love stories and I’ve read them my whole life, too. When I hit a “certain age” I decided that it was time to try and write a book that was good enough to be published. I finished a manuscript in about four months (writing late at night, while my children slept) and it did very well in contests and helped me get my first agent. It never sold, but while my agent was shopping it, I wrote another and before I finished it, I knew in my heart it would sell. So, I did the one thing every writer is told not to do – I quit my day job. Fortunately, that book did sell and I’ve been writing full time ever since.
Have you held or hold outside jobs as well as being an author? Do you have a favorite or worst job?
I have worked since my sixteenth birthday and I don’t think I can ever remember a time, even in college, when I didn’t have a job. I’ve been a waitress, receptionist, television actress (I was on LaVerne & Shirley and Bosom Buddies!),a talk show hostess, a trade show model, a cable tv salesperson and…oh, let’s see…too many to mention. Shortly after graduating from UCLA with a degree in communications, I discovered the world of public relations and marketing and it was such a natural fit for me. I worked my way up the corporate ladder and held the position of Sr. VP of the largest PR firm in the world, and had my own agency for many years. The best and hardest job I’ve ever had is MOTHERHOOD. It takes everything I’ve got and more…and it is so rewarding!
What was your reaction when you saw your first book in print? I am sure it would be a very exciting experience.
The same reaction I had when a doctor handed me a six pounds of wet, writhing perfection. Oh my Gawd!! I MADE THAT!
Tell us about your newest July 2006 release, THRILL ME TO DEATH. I believe this is the next book in the Bullet Catcher series. Please tell us about this book and how it relates to the other books in the series. How many books are currently published in this series and what are they? Are there more in the works? Sure hope so!
THRILL ME TO DEATH is the second book in the Bullet Catcher series and I have several more planned. They do not have to be read in order; it’s important that each book, even in a connected series, stands alone. There are recurring characters, so it’s fun to visit the “world” over and over again. THRILL ME TO DEATH is Max Roper’s story – a character I actually introduced in my debut novel, TROPICAL GETAWAY, as a DEA agent. He’s a Bullet Catcher now – a mountain of a man with a mile-wide moat around his heart. In every Bullet Catcher book, the hero is tested emotionally and physically. Max’s test is that he must protect – and secretly investigate – the only woman he’s ever loved, and lost. Their story is emotional as well as sexy, scary and just plain fun. I hope readers love it! I have another “mini Bullet Catcher” book coming out as part of a Christmas anthology later this year (it’s with superstar Linda Lael Miller, titled I’LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS) and another full-length story planned for April, 2007, called TAKE ME TONIGHT. And lots more in the works!
I was looking at your books being published this year and you have a tremendous amount of books coming out this year. You must be a very fast writer. Do you work on more than one project at a time?
I don’t know how fast I am, but I am focused and have an aggressive publication schedule for the next few years. I don’t usually work on more than one “fresh” book (the one in the actual “creation” phase) at a time, but I certainly have to stop one book to review copyedits on another, or write a proposal for a third. I keep myself organized with a two year production calendar on my wall so, at a glance, I can see all the work I have scheduled and committed. I also track my daily page production and am religious about deadlines. I don’t have any problem getting my “butt in the chair” to write – on the contrary, I have to remind myself to get out and LIVE.
How long did it take you to be published? How many books do you have out now and does this include your new July 2006 release THRILL ME TO DEATH?
I’ve been writing with the intent to get published since 2000; I sold my first book in 2002 and it was released in 2003. I’ve sold or contracted to write 18 books since then. THRILL ME TO DEATH is my eleventh novel.
If you were starting over, would you do anything different on your road to publication?
Yes, I would have started about ten years sooner. I should have known then that I wanted to do this with my life, but I had no idea that “mere mortals” could write and sell books. My brother broke the code when he wrote a novel and sold it in hardcover to Bantam Books. (Called DEADSPIN, written under the name of Gregory Michael MacGregor.) That really inspired me to give this dream a shot and I still can’t believe that I did it.
What advice would you give a new writer?
To remember that persistence is every bit as important as talent. Rejection is part of the job and you have to have thick skin and an unbelievable amount of self confidence. And that if you are a writer in your heart, in your head, in your soul…then you will write. Study the market, understand the business and make the time to write, even if it’s 4:00 AM. (That’s when I wrote my first published novel.) And be professional and kind to everyone – it all comes back to you someday.
With your busy writing schedule, do you find time to read? Could you share a few of your favorite authors or books with our readers?
I don’t read as much as I’d like to because I cannot read when I’m in the middle of a book and, as you noticed, I’m ALWAYS in the middle of a book. I love the top romantic suspense authors like Linda Howard and Sandra Brown. I also love to read biographies. I am a newspaper addict – four are delivered to my home every day and that takes up a lot of reading time.
Do you feel your writing has been influenced by any other authors? If so, who and how did they make an impact on your writing style?
I cut my teeth on the big, glitzy books of the ‘70’s and 80’s – Sidney Sheldon, Judith Krantz, even old Danielle Steel. Then I discovered Nora Roberts and Sandra Brown and I loved the level of suspense they introduced to a romance and the way that suspense can just send chills down your spine. I don’t think I am influenced by authors as much as inspired by writers who can consistently produce terrific books and create memorable characters. It makes me believe I can do it, too.
Give us an example of a typical day in your life. Do you try to keep to a specific writing schedule or number of pages written per day?
I write every minute my kids are in school and try to produce one finished scene per day. After they leave for school and I walk my dog and read my papers, I hit the computer, warm up with a little email and then re-read and revise yesterday’s scene. If that goes well, I’m usually starting a new one by 11 and I write straight through until 2:30. Then (and only then!) do I shower and dress, while my husband picks up the kids from school. Sometimes I pick them up because I have to get out or do something at their school. From 3:00 through evening, I am in Mom Mode – supervising homework, getting them to extracurricular activities, whatever. I am BLESSED in that my husband, who is retired, shops and cooks EVERY NIGHT. And he’s a gourmet chef! After my kids go to bed, I usually hit my office again and work until 11 or 12. Then I crash and get up to do it all over again!
Do you have any specific things you use to set the mood for your writing? A certain soundtrack, candles, or do you write better when things are quiet?
I have to have quiet – music will distract me. Everything distracts me, so I usually cut myself off and don’t even answer the phone when I’m writing. I cannot really start a book until I have two things: a picture of the hero and a title I love. Once I’ve found the hero, I keep him close by at all times. He is my muse!
Do you have any hobbies or any special treat you allow yourself when you need to unwind after a hard day? I know chocolate works wonders for me!
-- I like a glass of Kendall Jackson chardonnay! Around six or so, the kids are usually done with homework and they are swimming or fishing on our dock or off to sports practice and I like to pour a glass of wine and watch maestro cook a magnificent meal! That’s when I talk about my book and, very often, work out a plot problem if something’s bothering me.
Has anything been different than you expected about the publishing and promo part of your books? What do you consider the best part?
The surprising thing is how many books it takes to really create a name in the business. Lots of writers think the world changes with the first sale. It does, but in a different way than you expect. There is far more pressure to make subsequent sales and a tough audience to please – real readers who have paid money for entertainment. The best part of my job? Hearing from readers is the very best part…and falling in love over and over and over and over again! I’m definitely a “love junkie” so being a romance writer is the perfect life for me.
Roxanne, thanks so much for taking time out to chat and share a bit of your life with us! Continued good luck in your writing career. We will be watching for more of your wonderful books!
You can learn more about Roxanne and her books at her website
http://www.roxannestclaire.com/
Roxanne will be my guest blogger here on Saturday. She will be posting and taking questions and comments so please come on down and chat with us!
Hope that you will enjoy our interview. Feel free to let us know what you think and if you would like to see more interviews here on the blog.
Now without further ado......INTERVIEW WITH ROXANNE ST. CLAIRE
Roxanne, Welcome to Deb's. We are so happy to have you with us!
Thank you! I’m delighted to be here to share my love for writing and romance.
First of all, please tell us a bit about yourself. Your family, background, etc.
That could be a long answer! I am a full-time writer, a mother of two (9 year old Mia & 13 year old Dante), happily married to a very funny, sexy, adorable guy (who cooks!), living on the east coast of Florida, following my lifelong dream of writing novels. Before I started writing, I spent 18 years in public relations and I’ve lived in Pittsburgh, L.A., Boston, and Miami. Oh, and this year I became a dog owner for the first time in my life and I am officially converted – I adore that doggie! She’s taught me a whole new kind of love and has really completed our little family.
For our readers not familiar with your wonderful work, tell us what kind of books you write.
I write in multiple genres – romantic suspense, short and long contemporary romance and chick lit. No matter what I write, I want the story to take the reader on a ride – a fun, wild, fast, surprising, compelling, sexy, humorous, emotional trip that makes them feel great when it’s over. That’s what I look for in a book, and that’s what I hope to deliver with every one I write.
Do you enjoy writing one style of book better than another or are they all enjoyable for you?
Some books are just more fun and easier to write than others, and it has nothing to do with the genre and everything to do with the magic of the idea and the characters. Writing a romantic suspense is very difficult because of the layers, the subplots, the loose threads that must be tied into a bow and my own determination to surprise and scare the reader while they are taking that romantic ride toward a happy ending. Writing a short contemp, like a Desire, is a wholly different kind of challenge – I want to keep it fast and fun and flirtatious, but not frivolous. There’s still an important story to tell, even if there isn’t a dead body anywhere in sight. I’ve only done one chick lit and it was so much fun! I would like to do another but haven’t had a chance to develop any ideas since the Bullet Catchers (my romantic suspense series) keep me busy, and I’ve had some opportunities to write some series books for Silhouette and Harlequin that were just to tempting to pass up.
Do you enjoy writing connected books? How do you keep with up with all the pertinent information on your recurring characters? Do you keep a log or perhaps a computer program to keep up with all the character info?
I’ve only started a truly connected series with the launch of the Bullet Catchers – an elite cadre of high end, superhot, fantastically talented bodyguards and security specialists run by a very cool former CIA agent. The first, KILL ME TWICE came out last year; the second, THRILL ME TO DEATH is out this summer. There are several more planned, including TAKE ME TONIGHT, which comes out next spring and more. I am starting to keep computer logs of each character I introduce because my memory is notoriously bad!
How long does it take you to write a book, including any research you do? Does it vary with each book according to the research needed? Do you have a favorite type of research or materials to use?
Each book is different and the amount of time is directly related to how well I know the story and characters before I start. Although my books ALWAYS change from synopsis to final product, sometimes my vision is really clear and sometimes I have to just trust my gut. I do try to produce at least four books a year, but some of those are short contemporaries or novellas.
Approximately how long does it take for you to see a book on the store shelves after you have completed it? Does this include any revisions or re-writes?
It takes between six and nine months from submission to release, depending on the publisher. Of course, I will see the manuscript many times after I first send it in. My editor may ask for revisions, and I review line and copy edits, galleys and page proofs. With one of my publishers, I’m very involved in the cover concepts and back cover copy, with the other I just see the packaging when it goes up on amazon!
How long have you been writing? Was this something you have always dreamed of doing? Did this evolve gradually or did you just jump right into writing?
I’ve written fiction my whole life, since I first got a typewriter for my 12th birthday. I’ve only ever written love stories and I’ve read them my whole life, too. When I hit a “certain age” I decided that it was time to try and write a book that was good enough to be published. I finished a manuscript in about four months (writing late at night, while my children slept) and it did very well in contests and helped me get my first agent. It never sold, but while my agent was shopping it, I wrote another and before I finished it, I knew in my heart it would sell. So, I did the one thing every writer is told not to do – I quit my day job. Fortunately, that book did sell and I’ve been writing full time ever since.
Have you held or hold outside jobs as well as being an author? Do you have a favorite or worst job?
I have worked since my sixteenth birthday and I don’t think I can ever remember a time, even in college, when I didn’t have a job. I’ve been a waitress, receptionist, television actress (I was on LaVerne & Shirley and Bosom Buddies!),a talk show hostess, a trade show model, a cable tv salesperson and…oh, let’s see…too many to mention. Shortly after graduating from UCLA with a degree in communications, I discovered the world of public relations and marketing and it was such a natural fit for me. I worked my way up the corporate ladder and held the position of Sr. VP of the largest PR firm in the world, and had my own agency for many years. The best and hardest job I’ve ever had is MOTHERHOOD. It takes everything I’ve got and more…and it is so rewarding!
What was your reaction when you saw your first book in print? I am sure it would be a very exciting experience.
The same reaction I had when a doctor handed me a six pounds of wet, writhing perfection. Oh my Gawd!! I MADE THAT!
Tell us about your newest July 2006 release, THRILL ME TO DEATH. I believe this is the next book in the Bullet Catcher series. Please tell us about this book and how it relates to the other books in the series. How many books are currently published in this series and what are they? Are there more in the works? Sure hope so!
THRILL ME TO DEATH is the second book in the Bullet Catcher series and I have several more planned. They do not have to be read in order; it’s important that each book, even in a connected series, stands alone. There are recurring characters, so it’s fun to visit the “world” over and over again. THRILL ME TO DEATH is Max Roper’s story – a character I actually introduced in my debut novel, TROPICAL GETAWAY, as a DEA agent. He’s a Bullet Catcher now – a mountain of a man with a mile-wide moat around his heart. In every Bullet Catcher book, the hero is tested emotionally and physically. Max’s test is that he must protect – and secretly investigate – the only woman he’s ever loved, and lost. Their story is emotional as well as sexy, scary and just plain fun. I hope readers love it! I have another “mini Bullet Catcher” book coming out as part of a Christmas anthology later this year (it’s with superstar Linda Lael Miller, titled I’LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS) and another full-length story planned for April, 2007, called TAKE ME TONIGHT. And lots more in the works!
I was looking at your books being published this year and you have a tremendous amount of books coming out this year. You must be a very fast writer. Do you work on more than one project at a time?
I don’t know how fast I am, but I am focused and have an aggressive publication schedule for the next few years. I don’t usually work on more than one “fresh” book (the one in the actual “creation” phase) at a time, but I certainly have to stop one book to review copyedits on another, or write a proposal for a third. I keep myself organized with a two year production calendar on my wall so, at a glance, I can see all the work I have scheduled and committed. I also track my daily page production and am religious about deadlines. I don’t have any problem getting my “butt in the chair” to write – on the contrary, I have to remind myself to get out and LIVE.
How long did it take you to be published? How many books do you have out now and does this include your new July 2006 release THRILL ME TO DEATH?
I’ve been writing with the intent to get published since 2000; I sold my first book in 2002 and it was released in 2003. I’ve sold or contracted to write 18 books since then. THRILL ME TO DEATH is my eleventh novel.
If you were starting over, would you do anything different on your road to publication?
Yes, I would have started about ten years sooner. I should have known then that I wanted to do this with my life, but I had no idea that “mere mortals” could write and sell books. My brother broke the code when he wrote a novel and sold it in hardcover to Bantam Books. (Called DEADSPIN, written under the name of Gregory Michael MacGregor.) That really inspired me to give this dream a shot and I still can’t believe that I did it.
What advice would you give a new writer?
To remember that persistence is every bit as important as talent. Rejection is part of the job and you have to have thick skin and an unbelievable amount of self confidence. And that if you are a writer in your heart, in your head, in your soul…then you will write. Study the market, understand the business and make the time to write, even if it’s 4:00 AM. (That’s when I wrote my first published novel.) And be professional and kind to everyone – it all comes back to you someday.
With your busy writing schedule, do you find time to read? Could you share a few of your favorite authors or books with our readers?
I don’t read as much as I’d like to because I cannot read when I’m in the middle of a book and, as you noticed, I’m ALWAYS in the middle of a book. I love the top romantic suspense authors like Linda Howard and Sandra Brown. I also love to read biographies. I am a newspaper addict – four are delivered to my home every day and that takes up a lot of reading time.
Do you feel your writing has been influenced by any other authors? If so, who and how did they make an impact on your writing style?
I cut my teeth on the big, glitzy books of the ‘70’s and 80’s – Sidney Sheldon, Judith Krantz, even old Danielle Steel. Then I discovered Nora Roberts and Sandra Brown and I loved the level of suspense they introduced to a romance and the way that suspense can just send chills down your spine. I don’t think I am influenced by authors as much as inspired by writers who can consistently produce terrific books and create memorable characters. It makes me believe I can do it, too.
Give us an example of a typical day in your life. Do you try to keep to a specific writing schedule or number of pages written per day?
I write every minute my kids are in school and try to produce one finished scene per day. After they leave for school and I walk my dog and read my papers, I hit the computer, warm up with a little email and then re-read and revise yesterday’s scene. If that goes well, I’m usually starting a new one by 11 and I write straight through until 2:30. Then (and only then!) do I shower and dress, while my husband picks up the kids from school. Sometimes I pick them up because I have to get out or do something at their school. From 3:00 through evening, I am in Mom Mode – supervising homework, getting them to extracurricular activities, whatever. I am BLESSED in that my husband, who is retired, shops and cooks EVERY NIGHT. And he’s a gourmet chef! After my kids go to bed, I usually hit my office again and work until 11 or 12. Then I crash and get up to do it all over again!
Do you have any specific things you use to set the mood for your writing? A certain soundtrack, candles, or do you write better when things are quiet?
I have to have quiet – music will distract me. Everything distracts me, so I usually cut myself off and don’t even answer the phone when I’m writing. I cannot really start a book until I have two things: a picture of the hero and a title I love. Once I’ve found the hero, I keep him close by at all times. He is my muse!
Do you have any hobbies or any special treat you allow yourself when you need to unwind after a hard day? I know chocolate works wonders for me!
Has anything been different than you expected about the publishing and promo part of your books? What do you consider the best part?
The surprising thing is how many books it takes to really create a name in the business. Lots of writers think the world changes with the first sale. It does, but in a different way than you expect. There is far more pressure to make subsequent sales and a tough audience to please – real readers who have paid money for entertainment. The best part of my job? Hearing from readers is the very best part…and falling in love over and over and over and over again! I’m definitely a “love junkie” so being a romance writer is the perfect life for me.
Roxanne, thanks so much for taking time out to chat and share a bit of your life with us! Continued good luck in your writing career. We will be watching for more of your wonderful books!
You can learn more about Roxanne and her books at her website
http://www.roxannestclaire.com/
Roxanne will be my guest blogger here on Saturday. She will be posting and taking questions and comments so please come on down and chat with us!
Heads up!
Just wanted to drop a quick note and let you all know that I will be posting an interview with the wonderful Roxanne St. Claire. Roxanne has an awesome series out now called the "Bullet Catchers." The newest one an August 2006 release called Thrill Me to Death. Her books are full of suspense and have wonderful main and secondary characters that really make you want to grab that next book. Roxanne has also written category books too and you can learn more about her in the following interview and at her site. http://wwww.roxannestclaire.com
Please welcome Roxanne as my first author guest blogger!
Please welcome Roxanne as my first author guest blogger!
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