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Author Interview: Julie Ann Long

7/21/2014

Tell us about your book(s)!

I write the Pennyroyal Green series of historical romances, about the Redmond and Eversea families, who have been feuding since William the Conqueror landed, and are allegedly bound by a curse: a Redmond and Eversea are destined to fall in love once per generation, with disastrous results. As the series open, the simmering feud has reached a sort of boil, because Lyon Redmond, the Redmond family heir has disappeared, allegedly because Olivia Eversea broke his heart. The series follows the Redmonds and Everseas as they have adventures and misadventures, fall madly and passinoately in love, and Lyon and Olivia's story is a thread that runs through all the books.

The latest is BETWEEN THE DEVIL AND IAN EVERSEA, and Ian Eversea meets his match in Tansy Danforth! (Ian Eversea is the Eversea who was ushered out a window, naked, at gunpoint, by the Duke of Falconbridge in WHAT I DID FOR A DUKE.) Next up is IT STARTED WITH A SCANDAL, which picks up the story of Lord Lavay, first introduced in I KISSED AN EARL.

If I can make a reader laugh, cry and sigh in the span of a single book, then I feel like I've done my job!

Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?

Tom Hiddleston for Ian Eversea, perhaps. Emma Stone for Tansy? If you've read it, i'd love to hear your suggestions!

Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?

Thank heavens I haven't experienced this! Occasionally, if I'm stuck on a plot point, I'll pick the brains of a few key friends. I love writing and it seems to mostly love me back, so far.

What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?

One I release a book into the wild (ha!) I can't control how readers feel about or react to it, and I try not to stress too much about things I can't control. I focus on the on all the good lovely things readers say and write to me, and as always, I move onto the next thing. You simply can't please everyone all the time, and you'll make yourself crazy trying. I always do my very best work, put my heart into it, and hope for the best.

How do you relax?

What is this word “relax?” Kidding. I love to work and create things, actually. When I'm not working, I like to hang out with friends, laugh really hard, go out for amazing food, walk around beautiful places (whether it's the woods, the beach, or the city), listen to amazing music, and, of course, read.

What is your favorite motivational phrase?

This too shall pass. :)

What is your favorite book?

Oy, I have a million favorite books! I will name only a few, off the top of my head: POSESSION, A.S. Byatt, THE ONCE AND FUTURE KING, T.H. White, all the “Little House” books by Laura Ingalls Wilder, THE THORN BIRDS, Colleen McCullough...way, way, too many to list!

Who is your favorite author?

I have a million favorite authors! Here are a few: Alexander McCall Smith is my go-to comfort read. A.S. Bayatt. Marian Keyes. Nick Hornby. Donna Leon. Kerry Kennedy. Loretta Chase.

If you could trade lives with anyone, who would it be and why?

I like my life. I might not always be content, but I do like a challenging project, and I am definitely a work in progress. :)

If you didn't choose writing as a profession, what would be your next choice of professions?

Rock star! Or teacher. I do love imparting information.

What was your most embarrassing moment?

Way, way too many to list. It would be impossible to rank them all. I once spilled coffee down the front of me in an elevator with the CEO of the billion dollar company I used to work for, for one. (Quite a few of my moments involve spilling things, come to think of it).

Lighting Round:

White wine or red? Artisan ale! Or a cocktail.

Coffee or tea? Green tea!

Cook dinner or order take-out/delivery? Both! But I'm actually not a bad cook. Depends upon whether I'm on deadline.

Vanilla or chocolate ice-cream? Chocolate.

Pancakes or eggs? Eggs!

Sleep in or get up early? Depends on how late I was up the night before...

Laptop or desktop for writing? Laptop. I'm deeply in love with my Macbook Air.

GIVEAWAY:

Julie has agreed giveaway a copy of her book to a lucky reader. All you have to do to enter is answer the questions; Have you read the Pennyroyal Green series? Which is your favorite book in the series? If you haven't yet read it, what are some of your favorite book series? GOOD LUCK!!! ;-)

3 Comments

Author Interview: Elizabeth Essex

7/14/2014

13 Comments

Writing Related:

Tell us about your book(s)!

I write an award-winning adventurous historical romance series called the Reckless Brides. Set in the Regency era, the books (six so far) are the stories of a group of Royal Navy officers, and their families, and how each of them find true love. The books all have a slightly nautical flair, but no two stories are alike. I’ve taken my heroes from the Battle of Traflagar, to India, down the Thames, through the streets of London, and to the South Seas—so adventure is the constant motif. My latest, AFTER THE SCANDAL, follows Tanner Evans and Claire Jellicoe as they head down the Thames River to go boating in the moonlight, only to find a dead body, which compels them to head for London to solve the crime.

Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?

I have to admit that one lead actor in particular was very much on my mind when I was writing AFTER THE SCANDAL—Benjamin Cumberbatch. His depiction of Sherlock had the sort of honed intellectual sharpness, combined with an utter bafflement of other people’s emotional lives, that I wanted for my hero Tanner Evans. And also are were the cheekbones.

I mentally cast all my books, and I share them all with my readers by making inspiration boards for each book on Pinterest. (http://www.pinterest.com/elizabethessex/) I’ve got places and things and costumes and beautiful paintings and beautiful people, all of which illustrate the story the way I see it in my mind’s eye.

Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?

Keep writing. Don’t let yourself get away with not writing, just because you don’t necessarily want to write, or if what you’re writing feels stale. I always say, write what you must, but you must write something.

Keep as much as possible to a professional schedule. Find the time of day that works best for you with your day job, or kid’s school schedule, or feeding schedule, (I have several young writer friends who are just starting their families) and stick to it as much as possible. Even if it’s only 250 words at a time, that’s fine. Just try! And don’t expect it to always be fabulous. Give yourself permission to write DRAFT.

But most importantly, you must take care of, and feed your creative self—you can’t draw creative waters from a dry well. Mix the things that give you a creative boost—doing a crossword to jumpstart the words flowing in your head, or looking at art, or going to the movies, or reading other books, or doing research, or traveling—in with your writing schedule every day, so it becomes a good habit, so your creative soul is sated and your head is full of thoughts that can be put into words.

And when you are out looking at museums or gardens, or whatever, keep a pad and pen with you, or use your note app on your phone to quickly jot down those ideas and thoughts, so you will have them for later use. Nothing kills my creativity faster than telling myself I will remember something later—I rarely can dredge up a good thought more than once. So put systems in place to capture them while you can. :)

What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?

First, I always tell myself my books are never as good as the glowing reviews say, nor as bad as the worst ones insist. I say that because there is always room for improvement in almost any manuscript. Always. But you also can’t please everyone—when I included a mystery element in my last book, I knew it would not be everyone’s cup of tea. But that was the story in my head, so I wrote it anyway, knowing it wasn’t going to please even some of my biggest fans.

I will also say that I don’t go out of my way to read reviews—I don’t spend a lot of time on Amazon or Goodreads, although I will look at the overall graph of how many reviews there are (because that number influences how the books are placed on lists, and therefore how it sells), and the overall rating. I am usually notified of good reviews, either by the reviewer or review blog themselves, or by my publisher, but once in a while a less positive review will cross before my eyes. When there is constructive criticism in a negative review, I tend to take it to heart, and learn from it.

When an early review chided me for using a modern slang term, I learned that language usage is really, really important to many historical readers, so I went out and got myself an online subscription to the Oxford English Dictionary, and I check every last word now. But conversely, another reviewer recently said that many of the words I choose tend to be too obscure or archaic (Aha! My reaction from the first criticism.) that she was pulled out of the story to try and find the meaning, which wasn’t available in her modern dictionary. So at her suggestion, I am working on a lexicon, a listing of obscure words or nautical terms that I use frequently in my books, so readers will have a resource.

So I suppose my advice is, however hard it is for us to hear criticism, if it is constructive, and you can learn something from it, then it’s all for the good.

Personal Questions:

How do you relax?

Gardening and reading. And occasionally, playing on Pinterest.

What is your favorite motivational phrase?

Write what you must, but you must write something.

What is your favorite book?

I have three, because they are three different kinds of books:

Persuasion by Jane Austen, which is my favorite book as an adult;

Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Graham, which was my favorite childhood book; and

The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare, which was my favorite book as a teenager, and was the book that made me want to write my own stories.

Who is your favorite author?

Jane Austen.

What is your favorite movie?

Roman Holiday. But the ending kills me. Every time.

Which famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?

Jane Austen, again, because I think she was wickedly funny.

If you could do anything besides being an Author, what would it be and why?

I used to be a Nautical Archaeologist, so I would go back to doing that because I loved excavating shipwrecks, and traveling, and diving, and doing research. I’ve been really lucky in my jobs, but I love being a writer best.

What is the most interesting trip you have ever taken?

I’ve traveled pretty extensively, and been in a lot of remote places, but I have very fond memories of the trip my husband, the Indispensable Mr. Essex, and I took to Nepal for our honeymoon. We started in Katmandu, and trekked around for an entire month. It was lovely.

What was your most embarrassing moment?

Was? I continue to have embarrassing moments all the time, still. Just last month, after a panel at the Romantic Times Convention in New Orleans, my dear author friend Tracy Brogan came up and quietly told me I needed to zip up my pants. So much for my hopes to be seen as elegant, knowledgeable and professional. :)

Lightning Round:

White wine or red? White.

Coffee or tea? Coffee first thing in the morning. And then iced tea through the day, and hot tea in the late afternoon (at least in winter).

Cook dinner or order take-out/delivery? The Indispensable Mr. Essex is the chef in the Essex abode, and I am happy, happy, happy to be his sous-chef. But if I am left alone to make the dinner? Take out. Every time.

Vanilla or chocolate ice-cream? Chocolate!

Pancakes or eggs? Eggs Benedict (which I should like to rename Eggs Cumberbatch, for no reason in particular) on Sunday Mornings and special days. Pancakes only if I’m out for breakfast, or if the sprigs have made them.

Sleep in or get up early? Up early. All the time. Even on holiday. But that’s when I get the most work done, before everyone else (with the exception of the Indispensable Mr. Essex who rises even earlier than I do) is awake.

Laptop or desktop for writing? Laptop. I drag it nearly everywhere, especially in the carpool line at my kid’s school, were I always try to sneak in an extra 200 words. It all adds up.

GIVEAWAY

Elizabeth has Graciously offered one print Copy of AFTER THE SCANDAL. All you have to do is answer the question; After the Scandal has a mystery element mixed in with the romance, as the hero and heroine are drawn closer together by a murder. Do you like an extra element mixed with the romance plot?

13 Comments

Author Interview: Gayle Callen

6/30/2014

11 Comments

Writing Related:

Tell us about your book(s)!

REDEMPTION OF THE DUKE is the third book of my “Brides of Redemption” trilogy—but you don’t need to read the books in any order. All you need to know is that, in the past, something went wrong for three soldiers at war, and when they return to England, they want to help the families of their fellow soldiers who died. The tag line for the newest book is “A duke who needs to be tamed; a lady who refuses to be rescued.” Adam is determined to help Faith, who had to go into service as a lady’s companion when her brother died. She doesn’t want to be beholden to another man again, but he doesn’t give her a choice, and manipulates each situation to his benefit. He thinks he’s been redeemed, but she’s going to show him otherwise.

Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?

I think writer’s block is a puzzle to figure out, rather than something that should paralyze a writer. If I’m having a problem writing, it means there’s something in the writing not working: the wrong POV, veering in a wrong direction, something. I’ve learned to trust my subconscious and just walk away from it for an hour or a day (at most). My brain keeps working on the problem and usually finds the answer. If that doesn’t work, I talk to my critique buddies. Sometimes just speaking of the problem out loud or sparking off others’ ideas is all I need to find the solution. But I’m never totally blocked. I can’t be—I’m on deadline!

Personal Questions:

How do you relax?

I love TV. Part of it is watching how other writers handle plot. But I also love competition reality shows (like Amazing Race, Survivor, Dancing with the Stars, and So You Think You Can Dance), so it’s not all writing research. ;) I also love to crochet, and I sing in my church choir. My husband and I go hiking or snowshoeing with our dogs. Anything outdoors really relaxes me, even just reading a book on my patio. Oh, did I mention reading? That’s a given! ;)

What is your favorite motivational phrase?

“A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.” –John A. Shedd

I like the idea that we have to take risks, or we’ll never know success.

What is your favorite book?

Oh, how to pick just one? I simply can’t. If I stick to historical romance, I have two. SHANNA, by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, was the first historical romance I ever read. A friend brought it to a high school slumber party, and I read it all night, while everyone else slept. I was blown away by the combination of romance and history. She inspired me to make that my life’s work. My other favorite is LORD OF SCOUNDRELS by Loretta Chase. Loretta is a master of witty, intelligent dialogue and simmering sexual tension. I’ve reread both of these books dozens of times…

If you weren't a writer, what would be your next choice of career?

I actually majored in aerospace engineering before realizing that I loved writing too much to give it up.

What is your favorite movie?

Since I’m a historical romance writer, this will be no surprise, but I adored “Shakespeare in Love.” Afterward, I wrote my “His” trilogy in that Elizabethan era, since it was already a favorite time period for me. And I used to study a lot of Shakespeare, and still try to see Shakespeare in the Park every summer. But that movie—so funny and witty, tragic and moving. I’ve seen it a dozen times and still enjoy every moment.

Which famous person, living or dead, would you like to meet and why?

I would love to meet J.K. Rowling. I’m such a fan of her work, mostly for the Harry Potter series, but I also like the mystery she wrote as Robert Galbraith. Her creative genius just leaves me in awe. The sheer brilliance of Harry Potter’s world…I can’t even find the words to describe how much I admire what she’s created.

What is the most interesting trip you have ever taken?

Last fall, my daughter did a semester abroad in London. I was lucky enough to be able to visit her for a week for a research trip. We rented a car, just the two of us, and—driving on the wrong side of the road!—explored the beauty of England, from the Peak District (where they filmed Jane Austen movies) to the Yorkshire Dales up north. We stayed in B&Bs, saw gorgeous mansions like Chatsworth and Kensington Palace, and incredible ruins like Fountains Abbey and Middleham Castle. A week was just not enough.

Lightning Round:

White wine or red? Sorry, I don’t drink wine!

Coffee or tea? And I don’t drink these either (yes, I’m boring…I like ice water)

Cook dinner or order take-out/delivery? As a busy writer, I would prefer take-out, but I like to cook, too. (although usually my husband does)

Vanilla or chocolate ice-cream? Chocolate all the way!

Pancakes or eggs? Eggs! Now if you’d said French Toast…

Sleep in or get up early? Get up early so I can make my daily page goal.

Laptop or desktop for writing? Laptop. I like to be able to set it aside and spread out my index cards when I’m plotting.

GIVEAWAY

Gayle has offered to give away a free copy of the first book in her series, RETURN OF THE VISCOUNT to one LUCKY commenter. All you have to do to enter is answer the question; "So you've heard my favorite book. What's yours and why?" Good LUCK Everybody!!!

11 Comments

Author Interview: Miranda Neville

6/23/2014

6 Comments

Tell us about your book(s)?

I write historical romance and my current series is called The Wild Quartet. Set in the just-pre-Regency (1800ish), the background is four wild boys who got kicked out of Oxford and generally behaved like irresponsible, over-privileged frat boys. My books look at what happens ten years later when three of the guys, and the widow of the fourth, have to face the consequences of their crazy youth.

LADY WINDERMERE’S LOVER (out tomorrow) is the third in the series. Damian, Earl of Windermere, was the first of the group to "reform." He gambled away his estate at the age of twenty-one and, disgusted with himself, he became a stick-in-the-mud diplomat and dumped his friends. Unlike them, he needs to loosen up again.

To win back his estate, he marries heiress Cynthia whom he resents and treats badly. After a year abroad he means to make something of his marriage. But shy and dowdy Cynthia has bloomed in his absence. She is also apparently having an affair with Damian’s former best friend, the Duke of Denford. Just to complicate matters, Damian’s government job requires him to reconcile with Denford at the same time he is trying to win back his wife.

The uptight hero who looses his stuffing is one of my favorite tropes, though I have to say Damian brought a couple of things back from Persia that prove unconventional aids to spousal seduction. Cynthia is a sweet and well-intentioned heroine with a backbone of steel.

　
Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?

Being hopeless at celebrities, I had to ask my daughter the answer to this question. She tells me that the movie will star Teresa Palmer and Henry Cavill.

Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?

I’ve decided I suffer from two kinds of writer’s block. One is general paralysis and quite likely laziness on my part. I have to write myself out of it. I start by setting a timer for an hour or even half an hour, telling myself I can stop then. Usually it kicks start my motivation and at the very least I have a couple of hundred words down. The other kind is when I am in mid-book and, for no apparent reason, I don’t want to write a particular section. I have learned to respect my own resistance because usually it means there’s something wrong with the way I’ve planned it. Taking a good look at the scene often makes me see the change I need to make and I can go forward again.

　
What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?

I like good reviews better than bad reviews, LOL. Seriously, I am thrilled when any reader takes the time and trouble to review my books and they have the right to say anything they want. I also try not to read the bad ones!

Personal Questions: 　

How do you relax?

Being the world’s idlest person, relaxing is not a problem for me. I am always ready to eat, drink, read, and watch cooking shows instead of whatever productive tasks beckons. I can ignore a beckon like nobody’s business. The only time I get really keyed up is when I’m on deadline. Then I find long walks and Xanax help.

　

What is your favorite motivational phrase?

Nora Roberts　-- "I can fix a bad page. I can't fix a　blank page."

What is your favorite book?

Gah! Such a hard question. OK, Pride and Prejudice.

　
Who is your favorite author?

Judging the space occupied on my bookshelves, Dorothy Dunnett, Georgette Heyer and Loretta Chase are in a dead heat.

　
What is your favorite movie?

Star Wars or You’ve Got Mail.

　
Which famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?

Oscar Wilde because he was devastatingly witty and also, by all accounts, a genuinely kind and vulnerable man. Also Shakespeare because I have so many questions.

What is the most interesting trip you have ever taken?

A tour of English stately homes that has given me a ton of inspiration for my books.

What was your most embarrassing moment?

I’m in denial about it.
　

Lightning Round:

White wine or red? White

Coffee or tea? Coffee!!!!

　
Cook dinner or order take-out/delivery? Cook

Vanilla or chocolate ice-cream? Vanilla

　
Pancakes or eggs? Eggs

Sleep in or get up early? Sleep in

Laptop or desktop for writing? Laptop

Anything else?

GIVEAWAY

Thanks for inviting me on The Timeless Quills, ladies. Those "best" questions were rough. I’d like readers to tell me their favorite book, writer, or movie. I’ll send one commenter a copy of THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING WICKED, the first in my Wild Quartet series.

By the way, I love hearing from readers. Please join me on Facebook, Twitter, or contact me through my website.

6 Comments

Author Interview: Jo Goodman

6/16/2014

1 Comment

Tell us about your book(s)!

Hmm. What do I want to say about In Want of a Wife (released May 2014)? Some readers are surprised when I mention I don’t title my books. Sometimes I have more input than others. Sometimes I go along to get along, and sometimes I really, really like a title that another person comes up with. In the case of In Want of a Wife, my editor beautifully tapped into the story. I’ve written variations on the mail order bride theme, but I have never approached it as straightforward as I did this time. That struck me as odd when I thought about it because I enjoy that particular trope. I suppose it was about time that I got around to using it.

I am enjoying working in the Western genre. I love Regencies (maybe another reason I was drawn to the In Want of a Wife title), but they are a tad confining in terms of the years in which they take place. There is more latitude with Westerns, so much so that they can be contemporary.

In Want of a Wife is the 3rd story to take place in Bitter Springs, Wyoming. I don’t have plans to return to the town. The town and the characters might appear as a throwaway reference point in some future book, but I think I’ve told all the town gossip that was rattling around in my head.

Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?

Morgan Longstreet is aggressively ginger. I had in mind a young Damian Lewis when I was working on the book. I’m having a hard time coming up with another redhead. Maybe Heath Ledger if he were a redhead (oh, and alive). I pictured Mara Rooney in my head (and on my desktop) when I was writing about Jane Middlebourne.

Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?

I don’t know what other people do. I sit. And sit. I face the computer and sit some more. I might stretch. I might even go take a shower. And then I sit. I don’t give up.　

What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?

I don’t go looking for reviews (that’s kind of revealing). Usually I see them because someone sends them to me. For me a bad review is one in which the reviewer retells the story and never mentions the writing. A good review is one that tells me how the reviewer connected with the story, the characters, and the writing. That’s more helpful. An awful, terrible, horrible, very bad review is one that gives a plot point away after I tried to reveal it slowly and carefully to the reader. There was a main character in one of my books who was blind (I’m not saying which book, you understand). The reviewer just put it out there. I have words for what I thought about that, but I can’t repeat them here.

How do you relax?

If I’m in complete slug mode, I watch TV or do the Sunday Times crossword or play spider solitaire or read or watch snow fall. I have some ‘connect the dot’ books. I find connecting dots to be weirdly relaxing. It’s also relaxing to ride my bicycle, mow the lawn (please, I have a tractor…I’m not pushing the thing), or take a walk.

What is your favorite motivational phrase?

Just do it.

What is your favorite book?

For a lot of reasons that I won’t go into, I usually say Atlas Shrugged. Unfortunately, the book’s got so much baggage in this current political climate that I figure there are people who will make assumptions about me based on that choice. Soooo…aw, who cares…it’s still my favorite book.

Who is your favorite author?

Alexander Dumas

What is your favorite movie?

Star Wars

Which famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?

Benjamin Franklin. I want to hear all about the Continental Congress. I want a first hand account of what it was like to hear the Declaration of Independence for the first time and how they debated and compromised and arrived at a final document of such infinite beauty. And the kite story would be fun, too.

What is the most interesting trip you have ever taken?

You probably don’t mean LSD, right? Hmm, then I’d say it was the 3 day voyage away from Cape Henlopen, Delaware out into the Atlantic to collect samples of marine life. When I wasn’t hanging over the side being sick, I was able to dive off the top deck of the vessel into crystal blue water while someone stood by watching for barracuda. A good time was had by all.

If you weren't a Romance author, what would have been your next career choice?

This is always a strange question for me because I don’t identify myself as a Romance author. My professional identity is connected to the human services field as a child and family therapist. So I guess I’m a counselor whose next career choice would be as a Romance author.

What was your most embarrassing moment?

You’re kidding. Are we talking most embarrassing today, this past week, or month? I’ve got so many to choose from. Ok, I’ll just put it out there. I went to a birthday party when I was in 7th grade and I laughed so hard I peed myself and it left a little wet spot on the chair I was sitting in and when a friend saw it, she called me out on it, and I lied and said I spilled something and was just too embarrassed to say so. Of course, I was really too embarrassed to admit the truth. It still happens when I laugh too hard…or sneeze unexpectedly…or have a coughing fit…the difference now is that I just don’t care. It’s happening to my friends, too.

Lighting Round:

White wine or red?

I don’t like wine. It tastes like medicine, except for communion wine. I admit it. I am a Philistine.　

Paper books or ebook?

It’s a space issue. I don’t have room for paper books any longer. So ebooks it is.

Coffee or tea?

Coffee

Cook dinner or order take-out/delivery?

Take out.

Vanilla or chocolate ice-cream?

Chocolate

Pancakes or eggs?

Eggs.

Sleep in or get up early?

Get up early

Laptop or desktop for writing?

Desktop, but only because I’ve always been a Mac girl.

1 Comment

Author Interview: Jane Ashford

6/9/2014

10 Comments

Tell us about your book(s)!

I write Regency historicals – combining some nineteenth century history, a dash of wit and humor, and a love story in which two people face real issues and learn to be equal partners as well as passionate lovers.

Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?

This question reminds me of a funny post at RT Book Reviews. They thought the heroine on one of my covers looked like Kate Hudson. http://www.rtbookreviews.com/rt-daily-blog/caught-cover-february-2013

For my recent book The Bride Insists, I might choose Matt Bomer from the TV series White Collar for the hero, Jamie. Anybody else think he’s gorgeous?

Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?

Give yourself permission to “write bad.” (But not like Breaking Bad!) Just get words onto the page, even if you’re not feeling inspired. You can always make it better in the edit. As best-selling thriller writer Lee Child says, “Don’t get it right. Get it written.”

What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?

I really appreciate anyone who takes the time to read a book of mine and comment. Of course I prefer it when they love the book! : ) But I know readers have different tastes. So I understand if my work turns out not to be for you.

Personal Questions:

How do you relax?

Reading, walking, good movies or TV.

What is your favorite motivational phrase?

From Galaxy Quest -- Never give up, never surrender!

What is your favorite book?

I can never pick just one. I read and love all kinds of books – mystery, romance, sci fi.

Who is your favorite author?

Again, I can never narrow it down to just one. There are so many good writers. Thankfully!

What is your favorite movie?

If I’m ever feeling a bit down, I watch my DVD of Mamma Mia.

Which famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?

Jane Austen. Because I think she would be a delight to talk to. And I flatter myself that we would have things in common.

Who has been the MOST influential inspiration during your career as Author?

My mother. She was a writer also and encouraged every effort I made in that direction.

What is the most interesting trip you have ever taken?

I spent some weeks in the west of Ireland, a truly magical and romantic landscape.

What was your most embarrassing moment?

Umm. Not telling!

Lighting Round:

White wine or red? White once in a while.

Coffee or tea? Tea, of course!

Cook dinner or order take-out/delivery? I love getting take-out! Most often, I save it for a treat though.

Vanilla or chocolate ice cream? Chocolate, definitely. Are there other flavors?

Pancakes or eggs? Eggs, soft-boiled, in egg cups. : )

Sleep in or get up early? I’m naturally an early riser.

Laptop or desktop for writing? Both. I have a bigger screen on my desktop, which is easier on the eyes, but the laptop is great for traveling.

Thanks for having me on the blog!

GIVEAWAY

To win two of Jane’s books -- The Bride Insists and The Marriage Wager – tell us your favorite romance storyline. Secret baby? Marriage of convenience? Evil fiancée already in place? What types of stories can you not resist?

10 Comments

Author Interview: Leigh LaValle

6/2/2014

2 Comments

Tell us about your book(s)!

The Rogue Returns is a road romance and features an adventure by horseback through the peaks and Pennines of England. Our intrepid heroine, Lady Helen, is not an outdoorsy kind of girl, which makes for lots of amusing entanglements as she braves the wild mountains. Roane, our silver tongued hero, is in a bit of a hurry to find a buried treasure and reluctant to take on this fancy, London-bred lady. In the end, she proves her mettle, and he is dutifully impressed. Tessa Dare has described the book as a Regency Western. I like that comparison! Roane does have a bit of Robert Redford in him. Readers have also likened it to Romancing the Stone.

The Rogue Returns is part of the Nottinghamshire series-three stories which focus on two families brought together by a renegade highwayman, the Midnight Rider.

Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?

I have a picture of Paul Walker as Roane on my Pinterest board. I love the blond hair, golden scruff and chiseled features. In The Rogue Returns, Roane is trying to settle down after his wild past. Unfortunately, Paul Walker, also a thrill seeker, died in a high speed car crash.
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/475903885593780133/

I think Reese Witherspoon would make a great Lady Helen if she could drop her southern drawl for an upper crust British accent. She has the right blend of femininity and humor for Helen.

Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?

Writing partners! Seriously, I would be lost without my girlfriends. They keep me sane when the writing gets tough. I haven’t really figured out a way to work around writer’s block, other than to keep plugging away and know that ‘This Too Shall Pass’.

What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?

Again, girlfriends! They hold my hand through the best and worst of it.

How do you relax?

Relax? What is that? ;-) I just had my third baby in April, so there isn’t too much of that happening right now. I do love to read, and always find time for a good book. I get outside for walks and listen to the birds and notice what is in bloom (in Oregon, something is blooming all year.) Finally, I am a yoga teacher and have a dedicated home yoga practice that I call my best medicine.

What is your favorite motivational phrase?

On Life: Relax! Nothing is under control!

On Writing: “You think this is hard? We eat hard for breakfast.” Nora Roberts.

What is your favorite book?

Wayyyyy to hard to choose one.

Who is your favorite author?

Mary Oliver, a poet

What is your favorite movie?

Pride and Prejudice, of course

Lighting Round:

White wine or red? Depends on the season and the dinner.

Paper books or ebooks? ebook.

Coffee or tea? Both.

Cook dinner or order take-out/delivery? Take out!

Vanilla or chocolate ice-cream? Chocolate

Pancakes or eggs? Both

Sleep in or get up early? Sleep in!

Laptop or desktop for writing? Laptop with a wireless keyboard and monitor.

Thanks for having me! I am honored to be here today.

GIVEAWAY

I will offer one ebook edition of THE ROGUE RETURNS
“What is your favorite romance trope? The road romance? The older brother’s best friend? The pretend marriage?...”

2 Comments

Author Interview: Donna Lea Simpson

5/26/2014

9 Comments

Tell us about your book(s)!

I wrote Regency romances for Kensington Zebra for several years. I was so sad to see the sub-genre die, with the closing of Berkley Signet and Kensington Zebra traditional Regency romance lines. I’ve always felt that there was still a market for that kind of novel, one where the relationship was the centre of the plot. I moved on to paranormal and historical romance, and then began writing cozy mysteries as Victoria Hamilton.

But one day I learned that my literary agent, in association with a fabulous editor, Bill Harris, was e-publishing books for her clients using a cooperative imprint called Beyond the Page. Having already regained the rights to my Regency novels, and having the rights to some of my other work, we entered into a mutually beneficial venture.

We’ve rebranded them as Classic Regency Romances, and I’ve been so touched by how many people appreciate the traditional feel of these romance novels. It’s a whole new audience, and I’m just tickled pink. Along the way I’m giving some of them ‘facelifts’ to reflect my (hopefully) better writing skills.

Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?

That’s a tough one, but I can see Rufus Sewell as the hero of almost any romance I’ve written! Or Colin Firth. For a female lead I have to say Michelle Dockery, Lady Mary on Downton Abbey, would work as the female lead in a Regency romance… she’s so elegant and pale.

Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?

I refuse to believe in writer’s block. There have been times when writing has been difficult, but that was generally because I was going in the wrong direction.

What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?

Believe the first, ignore the second. LOL. Actually, I have skin like a rhino, developed over the years. Good reviews are easy, and I’m always pleased when someone likes my work, but bad reviews I approach with a few thoughts in the back of my mind.

First, is it really a review or just a nasty so-and-so venting on a poor, unsuspecting author?

Second, is the review written by someone who can string a sentence together? If the reviewer is functionally illiterate, it’s hard to take it seriously. Yes, I read for punctuation, grammar and spelling in reviews. Shouldn’t everybody?

Third, can I take anything valuable from the bad review? A well written negative review can be a fabulous learning tool. I’ve been a professional author for many years now, but there will always be something more to learn.

And last… I will always always remember that a review is someone’s opinion; they’re entitled to it, but it doesn’t mean they’re right, nor that I need to take it to heart. To remind myself of this, I occasionally read the Amazon reviews of some of my favorite books and authors, but it’s not schadenfreude, and I don’t enjoy the negative reviews they get. It’s just that I figure if reviewers can criticize Diane Setterfield, Scott Westerfeld, and Sue Grafton, then I am in excellent company.

How do you relax?

TV. I love reading, but after a day of writing and/or editing sometimes I just need a mindless reality TV show like Survivor, or Big Brother. Or a great sitcom like The Big Bang Theory. Or… be still my beating heart… Downton Abbey.

What is your favorite motivational phrase?

Go big or go home? Nothing ventured, nothing gained? I really don’t have one.

What is your favorite book?

Just one??? Has any writer ever been able to answer that? If I had to choose the one book I have read over and over, it would be Pride & Prejudice, the most perfect novel in the English language.

If you weren't an Author, what would be your career of choice?

Librarian… all those lovely, lovely books!

Who is your favorite author?

Okay, I have to categorize here, kind of like an award show:

Best Mystery Author: Sue Grafton

Best Humorous Mystery Author: Joan Hess

Best Historical Mystery Author: Anne Perry for her Charlotte and Thomas Pitt mysteries.

Best Literary Author from the Past: Jane Austen

Best Author – Mainstream Fiction: Diane Setterfield

Best Author – YA: Scott Westerfeld

What is your favorite movie?

Again, I have a few, but I’ll keep it to two.

Old comedy: Some Like It Hot… Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon dressed up as jazz musicians Josephine and Daphne. ‘Nuff said.

Romantic: The Holiday, with Kate Winslet, Rufus Sewell, and the incomparable Eli Wallach. This is what I tell everyone about The Holiday; it poses as a romance between Jack Black and Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz and Jude Law, but the real heartfelt romance, the very best part of the movie, is between Kate Winslet and Eli Wallach. That’s the relationship that makes me cry, the aim of any good romance movie.

Which famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?

Jane Austen. I keep trying to think of someone else, but she’s it. I’d like to talk writing with her for an afternoon, while we sipped tea in the garden.

What is the most interesting trip you have ever taken?

London, England when I was 14. I was too young to fully appreciate it, but I don’t travel much, otherwise. It was amazing.

What was your most embarrassing moment?

Only one? Well… this is a contender. I was walking to work one spring morning. Ahead of me on the sidewalk I saw a guy whacking at a bird with a hammer and I bolted up to him, shrieking about how could he do that, what a jerk he was, etc. He looked up at me with wide eyes and told me the bird had been hit by a car, and it was suffering; he had to put it out of its pain. I felt like such an idiot, because as much as that could have been an excuse, I knew in my heart he was telling the truth and doing the right thing. I felt like an idiot, but the important thing is, I learned not to judge someone’s actions on an impulse.

Lighting Round:

White wine or red? White, most of the time, except for merlot.

Coffee or tea? Coffee in the morning, tea after noon.

Cook dinner or order take-out/delivery? Cook most days, delivery for special occasions. Or Fridays.

Vanilla or chocolate ice-cream? Chocolate! Or actually something a little more interesting, like tin roof, or rocky road, or pecan praline.

Pancakes or eggs? Pancakes, but even better, French toast.

Sleep in or get up early? Early. Some mornings very early. Even if I’ve been out until two or three am, I’ll still be up by seven or eight, at the latest.

Laptop or desktop for writing? Desktop for writing, laptop for editing.

GIVEAWAY

Donna is GENEROUSLY giving away two packages each including: 1 Book tote, 1 pen, and 1 paperback romance novel. All you have to do to be put in the drawing is answer the question: If you could instantly transport yourself to one time in history and live there for a month, where and when would it be?

9 Comments

Author Interview: Christie Kelley

5/19/2014

3 Comments

Tell us about your book(s)!

I write Regency historical romances usually with some quirky heroines. My latest series Bewitched is about three women who in medieval times would have been called wise women. They are all healers/midwives for the estates where they live. It’s been a fun series to write because my previous series The Spinster Club was located in London and these books are mostly out in the country. The last book, Vexing the Viscount, does return the reader to London.

Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?

For Vexing the Viscount, I would have to choose Amy Adams. The heroine, Tia is a feisty redhead.

Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?

Go back and reread what you have written up to that point. I usually find that I get blocked because I’ve written something that just isn’t true to the one of the characters. Look for motivation issues. If you read something and think that just doesn’t sound quite right, it probably isn’t.

What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?

Well, of course I love a good review, but I also know that not everyone is going to love what I’ve written. And that’s okay. As long as it’s not a personal attack or a review where you know the person didn’t read the book because they can’t even get the hero’s name right (yes, that has happened to me).

How do you relax?

Do what now? What is relaxing? I work full-time and write as close to full-time as I can get without losing my mind. I do walk when I can and if I really have time, I love to kayak on the river near my home.

What is your favorite motivational phrase?

If you can tell stories, create characters, devise incidents, and have sincerity and passion, it doesn’t matter a damn how you write.
- Somerset Maugham This is my favorite because I’ve always said I’m a storyteller, not a writer.

What is your favorite book?

Only one? I have far too many books that I love to come up with just one.
Who is your favorite author?

Jane Austen.

What is your favorite movie?

Pride and Prejudice.

Which famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?

I would love to meet Stephen King. Even though he writes horror, he is a wonderful author and a supportive voice for the genre fiction writer.

What is the most interesting trip you have ever taken?

I took a trip to Italy a few years ago that was fantastic. My next book was to start and end in Venice so it was fantastic to see the city and feel its heartbeat. I also have never gotten so lost in a city.

What was your most embarrassing moment?

The number of times I got lost in Venice. Seriously, even with a map I couldn’t find my hotel.

Lighting Round:

White wine or red? White and a little sweet

Coffee or tea? Coffee!!!!

Cook dinner or order take-out/delivery? That depends, if I have time, I love to cook.

Vanilla or chocolate ice-cream? Vanilla.

Pancakes or eggs? Without question, both.

Sleep in or get up early? Sleep in, but it never happens with two cats who want to be fed.

Laptop or desktop for writing? Laptop so I can sit on my screened porch when the weather is nice.

GIVEAWAY

Christie has offered to give either a Kindle pre-order of Vexing the Viscount (August release) or an ecopy of Bewitching the Duke, which ever the winner prefers to a Lucky commenter who answers the question; what is your favorite time period when reading a romance?

3 Comments

Author Interview: Ruth Axtell

5/12/2014

4 Comments

Tell us about your book(s)!

I am presently what is called a “hybrid author,” one who is published with both traditional publishers and one who has stepped into the brave new world of self-publishing. I have two very recent books, one in each camp. My traditionally-published book is a regency romance titled A Heart’s Rebellion. It’s published by Revell Books, a Christian publisher.
My latest self-published book is a short work titled Victorian Spring: A Matchmaking Governess Novelette. It’s the first of a series I envision featuring a governess who gently intervenes in certain couples’ lives, giving them that little nudge they may need to further their courtship.

Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book? This question is always tough for me since I don’t keep up too much with TV and movies. Hmmm, can’t think of anyone off the top of my head.

Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?

Let your mind wander freely whenever you are not doing something writing-related. For me the best times to generate plot ideas are during a walk or while swimming laps, or when I wake up early in the morning and just lie there in bed. That’s when my creative juices are flowing the best.

What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?

The longer you are in the writing business, the more inured you become to reviews. By the writing business I mean the more eyes see your work—critiquers, editors, proofreaders before it’s published and general readers and reviewers after it’s published—the less impact they have on your ability or confidence in yourself.
You realize that glowing, insightful reviews, which may encourage you, may do little for overall sales or popularity of your book. Conversely, scathing reviews do little to hinder your book (as long as they are in the minority, of course). So, you learn not to get too up or down by reviews. Just focus on your current project.

How do you relax?

These days by walking or swimming or reading romances written by others! Or, watching an enthralling historical series on PBS like Downton Abbey, Selfridge’s, or Call the Midwife.

What is your favorite motivational phrase?

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

What is your favorite book?

This changes from year to year, season to season. I’ve really liked the fantasy trilogy by Patrick Carr, The Staff and the Sword, and am looking forward to reading the final book, A Draw of Kings.

Who is your favorite author?

Again, this changes. There are so many good authors out there. I love the old classics by Georgette Heyer and Grace Livingston Hill. I love Eva Ibbotsen, Jan Karon, M.M. Kaye. Of more recent writers, I love anything by Melanie Dickerson and Julie Lessman. I loved Linda Lee Chaiken’s series, but was bummed when some of them hadn’t been continued by the publisher.

What is your favorite movie?

Casablanca.

Which famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?

Jane Austen and find out about her secret love.

What is the most interesting trip you have ever taken?

To Yorkshire in England when I was researching a regency of mine, Dawn in my Heart. I went alone and it was a time of introspection, feeling close to the Bronte sisters, and getting lots of good plot ideas for my manuscript.

What was your most embarrassing moment?

I can’t remember anything recently. Back in high school, it was cold-calling a boy who hardly knew I was alive. Took me years to get over the humiliation of that one…

Lighting Round:

White wine or red? White even though red is better for you.

Coffee or tea? Coffee even though I drink more tea. Geez, I’m a bunch of contradictions.

Cook dinner or order take-out/delivery? Cook. It’s healthier and I know the ingredients.

Vanilla or chocolate ice-cream? Vanilla with hot fudge sauce.

Pancakes or eggs? Pancakes, preferably with blueberries.

Sleep in or get up early? I’m a morning person.

Laptop or desktop for writing? Desktop for now since I don’t have a good laptop.

GIVEAWAY

Ruth has Generously offered to give away 1 of her novels to 3 LUCKY commenters. All you have to do to be entered to win one of the following books including; A Heart's Rebellion (paper) ; Moonlight Masquerade which comes before A Heart's Rebellion (paper); In Your Eyes (digital); or A Rogue's Rebellion (digital) is answer the question; What famous botanical garden in London existed in regency times? Good Luck Everybody!!!

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Author Interview: Gayle Callen

Author Interview: Miranda Neville

Author Interview: Jo Goodman

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Author Interview: Leigh LaValle

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Author Interview: Christie Kelley

Author Interview: Ruth Axtell

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