I am new member of Romance Writers of America

Walk in harmony,

Melinda

 I am here today with romanctic suspense author, Anne Patrick.  Your books are wonderful Anne. We have alot to cover so lets get started.

 

            

 

 Tell us something about you and your books. 

I’m an author of ‘Sweet’ Edge of Your Seat Romantic Suspense.  It’s an odd combination I know, but everyone who knows me knows I’m far from normal.  I love keeping a reader up all night, and even giving them a nightmare or two, but when it comes to my romances I prefer the ‘G’ rated stuff.  Sure, I’ll let my characters kiss, hold hands, and even think about what may come next, but as a Christian Fiction author that’s as far as I’ll allow them to go.  I guess if I was to give an example of my work I would compare it to Dee Henderson, though I’m not anywhere in her league.  But I hope to be someday!

 

 Are there any new authors who have grasped your attention? 

 There are several in my Sweetest Romance Group who have written books that are at the top of my TBR list.  What with edits and all I haven’t been able to read much lately.  If only there were more hours in the day!

 

What’s your latest book about? 

 Lethal Dreams is about a very courageous young woman who has faced many obstacles in her life, including the devastating loss of your husband who was gunned down during a school shooting.  Since then she has been struggling with her faith, searching for answers that she may never find.  To make matters even worse, someone wants to get rid of her.  Here’s a book blurb about it:

 

Dr. Erin Jacobs is making a name for herself in the sports world.  Drawing on her own life experiences, she encourages and inspires athletes to recover from career ending injuries.  So why would someone want to hurt the good doctor?  Detective Logan Sinclair is determined to find that answer.  He’s been mesmerized by Erin from the moment she found him and his partner shot in an alleyway.  Since that night their lives have never been the same.  Will Logan be able to solve the puzzle of who wants Erin out of the way before it’s too late?  And if so what impact will those answers have on their lives?

 

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books? 

My idea’s come from many different sources.  I’ve had them pop into my head while walking my dog, mowing the yard.  I’ve even dreamed a couple of them.  There’s nothing more frustrating than having my muse wake me at 4am, with an awesome idea, when I have to get up in another three hours.  Thank goodness for tape recorders!

 

What promotional ideas can you give to other beginning authors? 

 Joining author groups is a very good way to make new friends and it has lots of promotional opportunity.  Trading off interviews and guest blogs, for instance J.  Some authors may feel threatened by having another author as a guest on their blog but from my experience, it’s beneficial in getting your name out there.  Anyone who comes to see their interview will also see your work.  Creating a Facebook page is another big advantage, and be sure to have your blog fed into it.  Join as many author sites as you can find—they’re all over the internet.

 

What advice would you give to somebody trying to get a literary agent? 

Unless you’re set on getting your foot in the door of a major publisher right away, you don’t need one.  Many well-respected small publishing houses don’t require them as a middle man.  Whiskey Creek Press, Desert Breeze Publishing, Champagne Books, Wings ePress, Whimsical Publications, Rogue Phoenix Press, Awe-Struck Publishing, just to name a few.  Okay, so I plugged my own publishers…shoot me!

 

Is there anything you would like to say to other aspiring writers? 

Never give up!  You’re going to get rejections, probably lots of them, don’t take them personally.  Believe in yourself.  Believe in your writing.  Keep submitting.  Sooner or later that door will open and your dream WILL come true.

 

As a child what did you want to do when you grew up? 

I wanted to be a cop or an author.  As an author I get to do both, plus a lot of other careers.

 

As a writer and published author how do you feel about e-publishing? 

 This is an interesting controversy.  Each has their pros and cons.  Personally, I’ve been published both ways and I think ebooks are great.  Not only are you saving trees, you’re providing books at reasonable prices.  In this economy you can’t beat it.  And interesting enough I’ve found my ebooks earn more money in the long run.  The idea situation is to have both.

 

What advice would you give to other aspiring authors about getting their work placed with a big publishing company? 

 Since I haven’t made it into the door of one yet….We are talking about the big boys in NY, right?  In that case, do like I’m doing and just keep growing as a writer, toning your craft, and keep submitting.  If it’s meant to happen it’ll happen. To be perfectly honest, I, like every author, dream of landing on the NY Times bestseller list some day, but if it doesn’t happen… that’s fine.  I’m living the dream I’ve had since I was a kid.  My work is out there with several different publishers, and hopefully my books will keep selling.  More importantly are the friends I’ve made in these smaller publishing companies.  I can’t imagine doing that in the big boy’s league!  Unless maybe your Nora or Stephen. 

 

Please give us a list of all of your books currently available. 

Every Skull Tells a Story, Journey to Redemption, Lethal Dreams, Dark Alliance.  Also, under the pen name Kinzie Monroe, I have an Inspirational Romance called Reservation for Two.

 

How long does it take you to do research on the books you write? 

 I might do a little research before I begin, say a couple of weeks worth—maybe more depending on the subject matter.  Then as I’m writing the story if I come to a place where I need to do some more research, I highlight the area and come back to it later.  On my first draft, my main concern is getting the story written while its fresh in my head.

 

 How do you give credit to any research you do? 

If I’ve researched one on one with someone I give them credit in the acknowledgements.  I do most of my research on line. I then try to find someone who works in the profession I’m writing about.  For instance my book Fire and Ash (coming in July) I sought the expertise of a veteran fire investigator.  And right now I’m researching with a sergeant in Iraq for a new story I’m hoping to start in the near future.

 

What inspired you to become a writer? 

 I’ve always had an over-active imagination, especially as a kid, and would often find myself in some kind of trouble.  So my mother, probably as a way to keep me out of trouble, suggested I write these ideas down and turn them into make believe adventures instead of real life ones.  It worked most of the time :o)

 

How did you go about getting published? 

After years of submissions, some interest, and A LOT of rejections, I began working with an editorial service that was very reasonable.  She’s a published author herself and has worked with several well-known authors.  She was brutally honest when it came to editing, but she helped me to grow a great deal as a writer and she encouraged me to keep submitting.  Finally about a year or so ago I made myself a challenge.  For every rejection I got I’d send out three more.  Suddenly the door opened and, BOOM, I’d landed eight contracts with different publishers.  I’ve been on cloud nine ever since.

 

Where do you do most of your writing? 

 I have this big, beautiful, roll top desk sitting in my living room where I do some of it.  But I’m most comfortable in my comfortable rocking chair.  Have you ever seen anyone write and rock at the same time?  Ha!  I told you I wasn’t normal.

 

Are you working on other things, if so what are they? 

In between edits I’m working on two projects.  A Romantic Suspense and an Inspirational Romance.

 

What do you enjoy most about your writing? 

I’m a panster, meaning I don’t normally plot a story, other than a brief outline.  So once my characters come to life I’m more or less just along for the ride.  It’s like riding a roller coaster blindfolded.  You never know what’s around the next corner, or if your car is going to derail.  I love it!!!

 

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

Yes!  I want to thank my gracious host, Melinda, for having me on today.  It’s been fun!  I also want to invite people to visit my blog: http://www.suspensebyanne.blogspot.com where you can read blurbs and excerpts from all my books.

Anne it has been a pleasure and I hope to have you visit Pen to Paper again soon

 

Walk in harmony,

Melinda

I am happy to have Deborah here at the Pen to Paper Blog.  Deborah has alot of information for writers so lets get started

                              

 

  

1. Tell us something about you and your books

 

I write Western romance set in Montana. My heroines are strong women, because you had to be very strong to survive on the frontier, but they are also Victorian ladies. My heroes are alpha males, because when you have gun-toting, horse-riding cowboy types, they are all strong, take charge men.

 

I have a degree to teach American history, so I’m compelled to write stories set within that context. That’s not an easy sell, but I love to write about the way men and women created our country, with hard work, perseverance and faith.

 

 

1.  Are there any new authors who have grasped your attention?

 

I’ve been reading a lot of Steampunk, which is set in the Victorian era. Gail Dayton is a talented writer, and I loved her book,” New Blood”. She isn’t exactly a new author, but she’s new to me.

 

1. Do you have any advice for other writers?

 

Don’t give up, don’t quit. I had five years from the sale of my first book to the sale of the second one. I wrote 3 books in-between, and still keep sending them out. You collect rejections, and if you see some of the same messages, you revise. Keep writing.

 

1. What’s your latest book about?

 

“Promise Me” is the story of a young widow, Amanda Wainwright, who suffered through a loveless marriage with an older man that was arranged by her father. She made a deathbed promise to her husband to go to Willow Creek and help the miners. He was searching for repentance, but Amanda is searching for meaning for her life. She meets Sam, who is a handsome, charming and glib businessman. What she doesn’t know is that Sam is actually a Secret Service agent, in town to investigate a conspiracy of mine owners to control the price of silver and possibly change the US monetary system. The story is about how they meet, have an affair and fall in love set against the backdrop of a wild mining town.

 

1. Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

 

I visit Montana almost every year, so the setting seems to come from trips there and my love of the landscape. My characters come from studying people, hearing personal stories and taking the “What if?” question to a full development into an outline, then a story.

 

1. What promotional ideas can you give to other beginning authors?

 

Because part of my job is arranging author events for one of the busiest library systems in the country, I always advise authors to consider ways to promote with libraries. Many authors only consider book stores when they want to promote, but libraries are in the READING business, so they can help you reach a new audience. And the promotional opportunities are quite amazing, and usually free to the author.

 

1. What advice would you give to somebody trying to get a literary agent?

 

I’ve sold two books without an agent, and since I haven’t really gone through the process, I can’t give advice. Sometimes you can sell directly to a publisher, and the might make it easier to find an agent to represent you. Since I work in the “book business” I have a lot of knowledge and experience. While an agent would get me read by some houses I can’t contact, at this point in my career it’s not something I’m focused on.

 

1. Are there any thing you would like to say to other aspiring writers?

 

Keep writing – and while it’s important to create something new, it’s also important to revise what you’ve written. Many writers stop at the point where they could benefit from one more deep, concise and through edit. I learned this from my last editor, who was fabulous by the way. But much of what she pointed out to me should have been fixed before I submitted it. I work much harder now on the editing part. I can write very fast, and just let my imagination go in the creation phase because I know I’ll be working equally hard to polish and edit the manuscript.

 

Also, don’t go against the grain. I hear so much about not writing to the market, and while that’s true, if I had written anything except a Western I think it would have been easier to publish my second book. Because I don’t write historical romance set in England or Scotland, it’s been more difficult for me to build a career. But, I can’t write what doesn’t feel good to me, so if you do insist on writing outside the NY publishing box, you might have better luck with a small publishing house or an E-book publisher.

 

1. As a child what did you want to do when you grew up?

 

I wanted to be an actress and dancer. But, my mother was a single parent trying to raise three daughters. There wasn’t money for dance lessons, so I became a teacher. I played school a lot with my sister and cousins, so I know that was part of my dream too.

 

1. As a writer and published author how do you feel about e-publishing

 

I have thought e-publishing was the future for over eight years. When I was first hired at the library system, we had a program from the man who was creating the typeface for the Microsoft E-Reader, (which was never launched by the way). He said something that really did resonate with me. “Do you think five years into the future we will be cutting down trees to publish books?” There’s tremendous waste with traditional publishing, because so many books are published in Southeast Asia, transported by boat to the US, shipped to bookstores, and then many destroyed when they don’t sell. No wonder publishers have difficulty making money – it’s an 18^th century model! With e-books and POD (Publish on Demand) there is less waste of precious resources, and your book never goes out of print. The Kindle has proven the public will read digital books, and I think it’s exciting. There will be always be print books, but the e-book is another very viable format.

                                                           

                                                               

1. What advice would you give to other aspiring authors about getting their work placed with a big publishing company?

 

Consider what your reasons are for wanting that – are you imagining a huge advance? Many publishers don’t pay large advances to first time authors, so you might be shocked at what you are offered. Is there a reason you have a “dream publisher” and be clear what that is, and then create a series of objectives, a work plan to get you there. It might include small steps like publishing with smaller presses. Or you might have the book that publisher is looking for, and if you do – find a way to get it in front of them if you don’t have an agent. I won two major contests with my first book, and the second one came with a publishing contract. Look for those kinds of opportunities.

 

12.  Please give us a list of all of your books currently available.

 

“Promise Me” will be released on January 22, 2010. My first book, “Beneath a Silver Moon” is available used on Amazon, but is out of print. That’s one of the reasons I love being published by The Wild Rose Press, because in addition to great attention to detail, being part of a business owned and operated by women and the amazing editorial support I received, my book will never go out of print.

 

13.  How long does it take you to do research on the books you write?

 

I spend a lot of time on research, before I start a book and while I’m writing it. But, I also have a system of jumping over the details and doing the specific research after I’ve written the first draft.

 

1. How do you give credit to any research you do?

 

I don’t use research verbatim, like a high school history lecture. I use research to create the mood of the times, to know how people dressed, how they spoke and what they were interested in, but it’s fiction – and Jayne Ann Krentz/Amanda Quick has pointed out that if we make mistakes, our readers will forgive us. They want a good story, not a historical non-fiction book.

 

1. What inspired you to become a writer?

 

I love telling make-believe stories about imaginary people. Watching a world take shape word by word is an astonishing thing. First you have people on paper, but eventually – at least for me – you hear their voices, know what they are feeling and become part of their world. Then you publish that story and other people can visit that world too.

 

1. How did you go about getting published?

 

I was a finalist in the New Historical Voice contest sponsored by Dorchester Publishing s and Romantic Times magazine. All three of the finalists were given a publishing contract.

 

1. What is your novel about

 

After spending years in an arranged marriage as the repressed wife of an older man, Amanda Wainwright has learned the hard way that money can’t buy happiness.  She arrives in Willow Creek, Montana determined to keep a deathbed promise to her husband and do something to help other people.  When Amanda meets a handsome, mysterious stranger who tempts her with sweet promises and long nights of passion, she discovers a fiery, passionate nature that could lead her to disaster.

 

For Samuel Calhoun, falling in love wouldn’t just be foolish, it could be deadly. He’s on  assignment as an undercover agent for the Secret Service. In order to maintain his secret identity he accepts an offer from a consortium of mine owners to seduce, humiliate and ruin the Widow Wainwright. Before long, Sam knows he’s met the woman who can banish the aching emptiness in his soul and he’s willing to risk everything – even his life – to be with her.

 

 

1. Where do you do most of your writing?

 

I write at home in our family room. I learned early on to write with noise around me, because when I started writing I owned a child care business and wrote during nap time. With only my grown son and my husband at home now, it’s pretty quiet. This year I’m going to finally get an office, and I’m looking forward to that.

 

1. Are you working on other things, if so what are they?

 

I’m writing a Steampunk fairy tale, “The Scarlet Cloak” that is my first young adult book. I love all the alternate history elements I can combine with magic and science. I’m actually something of a science geek, (I taught workshops for The Pacific Science Center) so this has been an adventure for me. I like focusing on the two main characters, and how they will grow from girls into women and not having the main focus be a relationship. Of course, there will be romance in this book!

 

1. What do you enjoy most about your writing?

 

I love reading something that I thought was really horrible at the time I wrote it, and realizing that it’s good, very – very good. That doesn’t happen much, but when it does, that feeling is fuel to continue working on the story.

Thanks Deborah for being here.  You have left us with a lot of great info

Walk in harmony,

Melinda

                    

Amber, I am so excited to have you here at the Pen to Paper.  You are a very talented author.  Let’s get started, we have alot to cover

1. Tell us something about you and your books

 

I’m a multi-published romance author and a member of Romance Writers of America and the Gulf Coast Chapter of RWA. I live on the Gulf Coast with my husband and three labs. My published titles include a romantic suspense DENIED ORIGIN, published in paperback in ebook from The Wild Rose Press, western romance and 1^st Place More Than Magic Novella BLACKEST HEART, which is also available now in the paperback anthology THE WAY BACK HOME. Black Lyon Publishing recently launched my first historical romance, FOREVER AMORE, in paperback in ebook.

 

1.  Are there any new authors who have grasped your attention?

Absolutely! Larissa Ione made huge splash last year with her Demonica series. I’m dying to read more! I recently read some of Ann Aguirre’s work, which is fascinating. I’m looking forward to reading Annette McCleave, Judi Fennell, and Kris Kennedy.

 

1. Do you have any advice for other writers?

So many writers just starting out are more focused on getting published than writing the story. That’s just not the way it happens. Writing comes from the heart, the soul, and should be rewarding all in itself. It could take years and years to get into your target market, the industry is ever-changing and many authors come and go in a flash. If a writer doesn’t find those rewards in the writing, they’ll never be satisfied.

 

1. What’s your latest book about?

 

BLUEST HEART is the sequel to 1^st Place More Than Magic Novella BLACKEST HEART, a western romance that takes place in Wayback, TX. It is the second book in the Ridge family trilogy. The final installment, BET IT ON MY HEART, will be released later this year.

 

The Wayback bachelor is a dying breed, but that doesn’t stop Casey Ridge from wanting to settle down. For this cowboy anyone but Josie Brusky would be an easy wrangle. Unfortunately for him, the Blue Bug singer and owner of Josie’s Treasures doesn’t believe in commitment much less marriage.

Years ago, Josie lost her heart to Casey’s charm and dimpled smile. Since then she has done everything she knows to forget him. After all, she’s known as the local harlot and the daughter of the town’s biggest bigot. Casey could have any girl he wanted. Why would he saddle himself with her? In the wake of a shattering past, she refuses to give up her independence.

Casey digs down deep to win her over, but does he have what it takes to win Wayback’s BLUEST HEART?

1. Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

 

Anywhere and everywhere! The idea for BLACKEST HEART and the subsequent trilogy came from an article in a magazine about an actress. It wasn’t the words the glimpse into her life that piqued my interest. It was the pictures of her visiting a ranch. The concept of an A-list actress returning to the peace and quiet of a dusty town like Wayback, TX and life on her family ranch intrigued me. From the minute I added a silent, bull-riding cowboy to the mix, I knew I had to write the story.

 

1. What promotional ideas can you give to other beginning authors?

 

Networking is the biggest weapon in your promotional article. Join the latest social networking site. Learn to use it. Scour publishers lists and join in organized promotional group activities. Develop a unique site and draw people to it. Group blogging also seems like a great way to double promotional efforts. If you’re willing to do the work, it works!

 

1. What advice would you give to somebody seeking a Literary Agent?

 

AAR’s site is a great place to go to research prospective agents. Look for the agent who is going to be as passionate about your book as you are.

 

1. As a child what did you want to do when you grew up?

 

A mermaid, a teacher, a marine biologist, an Olympic gymnast, a country music singer, and Princess of Wales. I was very ambitious, lol

 

1. As a writer and published author how do you feel about e-publishing

 

It has nowhere to go but up. It amazes me that there are those who still choose to disregard it. Technology is making ebooks more and more appealing to the average consumer. Book downloads have also given piracy a boost, however, and that isn’t something I or any other author should tolerate.

 

10.  How long does it take you to do research on the books you write?

 

Hopefully, no longer than a month. I give myself a month after the completion of a manuscript to restore my creative energy. By the end of a WIP, I know what my research materials will be. Usually it’s no more than a reference book or a list of topics to research at credible sites online.

 

      11.How do you give credit to any research you do?

 

If I don’t mention it in the novel’s dedication, I try my best to expose it to readers and other authors. My blog, The Cozy Page (http://amberleighwilliams.blogspot.com), makes this easy. I featured Lee Lofland’s guide to police investigation especially for writers and a private investigating handbook that helped me plot a romantic suspense concept. Whenever a book launches, I usually make several web appearances and mention where the concept came from and the different elements that helped me along the way. For example, during FOREVER AMORE’s virtual book tour, I talked quite a bit about the various references that helped me through six revisions.

 

 

1. What do you enjoy most about your writing?

 

The tingly feeling I get when a good brainstorm sets in. The satisfying realization that I’ve made good progress in the story, whether its plotting or the writing. Also the reaction from reviewers or fans. There’s nothing more rewarding than fan letters! If I’ve given someone a satisfactory read, I know I’ve done my job well and that’s what motivates me into the next story.

 

Amber, it has been delightful having you here.  Here is Amber’s Website:  http://www.amberleighwilliams.com/

Walk in hamony,

Melinda

Joyce I am so honored to have you at the Pen to Paper Blog.  Your upcoming release is a must read.  We have alot to cover so lets get started.

 

 

                                                                             

1. Tell us something about you and your books

The old cliché write what you know has worked fairly well for me since I owned horses, my husband and I farmed, and I was born in Central Texas where my stories are set.  

 

1.  Are there any new authors who have grasped your attention?

New authors, as in recently published, or authors that I have recently found who are new to me? So far this year I’ve read 42 fictions books. At least, that’s how many titles I managed to write in my diary. As I recall, Silent in the Sanctuary was a debut novel for Deanna Raybourne. Other authors I read for the first time, all though many might be long-time-published, Michelle Rowan, Stacey Kayne, Sophie Jordan, Maureen McKade, Linnea Sinclair, Jean Harrington. And of course I love most anything by Nora Roberts/J.D. Robb. My favorite author of all time is Ken Follett. As you can see, my reading tastes are eclectic.   

 

1. Do you have any advice for other writers?

Unpublished? Don’t give up. I wrote for 20 years prior to publication. It’s a tough business, but you can do it if you take the time to learn your craft and write, submit, write, submit… If you’re intending to publish in the Romance genre, join Romance Writers of America and a local RWA chapter. Attend conferences. Study authors who write similar to what you write. Study what makes that author’s work stand out and catch your eye―and especially an editor’s eye. There are a myriad of classes, online or at conferences offered by RWA.

 

1. What’s your latest book about?

Two people who fall in love and face the impossible task of blending two cultures. Cultures set on destroying each others’ way of life. 

    

1. Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

I’ve always wanted to believe that in the days when the white man invaded Indian territory war and rape weren’t always the outcome. Surely there were instances when a man and woman met and fell in love. I’ve read more than 100 research books about American Indian cultures. You can never learn too much. The trick is to know how much of what you learn should appear in a book, tidbits that make an era stand out, a setting that gives the reader the impression that she’s visiting that particular place. 

 

1. What promotional ideas can you give to other beginning authors?

Develop a web site early and blog if you can. I don’t blog, but I do have a web site. www.joycehendersonauthor.com  Find what works for you that you can easily afford. I’ve always given bookmarks or business cards everywhere I go. If a beginning writer or author is expert in something offer to give workshops to writers’ groups. Visit booksellers and let them know you are anxious to know them and help them promote your work.

 

1. What advice would you give to somebody trying to get a literary agent?

Study the market in which you wish to break into. Study agents who represent authors you like or admire. Ask acquaintances about how they like their agents. What do you want in an agent? One who markets and sells your work? Or perhaps you want an agent who gives editing advice. Study each agent to find out how s/he deals with clients. Only go with an agent who is really excited about your work. An agent who isn’t excited about your work, isn’t out there beating the bushes to lay your work on editors’ desks is a bad agent for you, and a bad agent is worse than no agent at all.

 

1. [Is] there any thing you would like to say to other aspiring writers?

Don’t listen to all the negative chatter about how tough getting published is. You already know that! You don’t need it shoved in your face. Work at your craft. By that I mean, learn how to edit your prose until they shine. Learn how to write a query and synopsis. Write, write, write.  

 

1. As a child what did you want to do when you grew up?

I wanted to be a stewardess! It sounded like the most glamorous thing a girl could do! Those were the days when flying was more or less for the rich and famous.

 

10.  As a writer and published author how do you feel about e-publishing [?]

Like it or not, that’s where publishing is going. I fervently hope print books are around forever because I like the feel of a book in my hands, the smell, the fabulous cover art, but 30-somethings and younger are used to computers, texting, anything techie, and e-books are certainly that. Actually, my book published by Dorchester, To the Edge of the Stars is also offered on Amazon in Kindle format. E-books are so easily pirated, though. It’s a problem the publishing industry needs to solve; authors cannot stop that thievery alone.

 

1. What advice would you give to other aspiring authors about getting their work placed with

      a big publishing company?

Most big companies prefer agented submissions. So finding an agent would be the first hurdle to get noticed by the “big” boys. Actually, though, some of those publishers who have been around for a long time aren’t as big is we think they are. Editors are really overworked because there just aren’t a lot of bodies in those hallowed halls anymore.

 

12.  Please give us a list of all of your books currently available.

Alas, To the Edge of the Stars is the only one on the shelves since Walks in Shadow and Written on the Wind are out of print. The latter two can only be found in used books. Although some of those are advertised as new. I don’t have a publishing date for Capture an Eagle yet, but I hope it will be available in 2010. When it is published, it will be available in most places but the easiest way to get it will be to go on The Wild Rose Press web site and look for my name or go to the historical Western pages. It will be available in print and e-book formats.

 

13.  How long does it take you to do research on the books you write?

I never quit researching. I love it! Actually, I have to watch myself or I’ll fritter away weeks just researching and not get to the business of writing my stories. LOL Most of my research these days is if I come across a question during the writing I pause and look up that particular thing to make sure that I’m as authentic as possible.

 

1. How do you give credit to any research you do?

Most of my research is done in books published for years and years. Individual credit hasn’t happened yet, but it will in the book I’m writing now because I’ve asked some questions of a specific person; and artist friend who was “born out of his time.”

 

1. What inspired you to become a writer?

Inspired probably isn’t the right word to explain my reason for starting to write. Beyond marriage I’d had a successful part-time business in Southern California, raising three kids, ranching, and working part-time as a bookkeeper for small business. Oh, yes, and  secretary/treasurer of my husband’s corporation. When we moved to Florida I looked around for something else to do. Sure didn’t want to become bored. LOL I was one of those idgits who read a romance and told myself, “What’s so hard about that? I can write a romance.” (Rude awakening fast approaching.)

 

1. How did you go about getting published?

By doing everything wrong. LOL No kidding. I didn’t know diddly-squat about how to write fiction, but that didn’t stop me from going right ahead and writing something like 600 pages of absolute drivel. That was in 1984, and after I sent in that first draft, returned unopened, I finally found RWA in 1989. There were two reasons that first effort was returned unopened: the house I mailed it to didn’t accept unagented material, and whoever received it knew by my unsolicited submission that I didn’t know what I was doing. Why waste his/her time?

 

1. Where do you do most of your writing?

Mostly in my office. Twice a year I’m fortunate to have two critique partners who own second  homes elsewhere. We take a week in the spring to go north to one place in the spring and the other in the fall, and do nothing but write for a whole week and critique each other. It’s wonderful to immerse oneself in nothing but writing, no other responsibilities intruding.

 

1. Are you working on other things, if so what are they?

A time travel, which is entirely new for me to attempt. But I’m having fun with it. And I’m about to resurrect another book that’s a turn of the century that takes place in Southern California. Um, turn of the century is from the 19^th to the 20^th century. I tend to forget we are now in the twenty-first century. I also write how-to’s for writers, and I occasionally do workshops.

 

1. What do you enjoy most about your writing?

I’m a “write in the mist” storyteller. So when I sit down to write I have no idea where my characters are going to take me that day. Does that approach sometimes take me into a boxed canyon? Well, yeah, but part of the fun of writing is getting myself out of those predicaments.

I supposed another of my favorite things about writing is the people I’ve met in the 20-year journey I’ve taken.

 

                                               

 

 Capture an Eagle                                                           by  Joyce Henderson

Coming soon from The Wild Rose Press                          www.joycehendersonauthor.com

 

Joyce it really has been a pleasure visiting with you today.  Please come back soon.

 

Walk in harmony,

Melinda

Jodi I am honored to have you visit Pen to Paper today.  Your books are just wonderful.  So, lets get started.

 

Whispering Mountain Series

 

Texas Rain

Texas Princess

Tall, Dark, and Texan

The Lone Texan – October 2009

 

Contemporary Fiction

 

Twisted Creek

Rewriting Monday

 

Anthologies

 

Give Me a Texan

Give Me a Cowboy

 

 

 

How long does it take you to do research on the books you write?

 

It takes me about a year to write a book.  I usually am working on the research for one while I’m writing another and editing another.  Some people think that would be confusing, but I enjoy shifting.

 

What inspired you to become a writer?

 

My brother often tells people that his little sister turned a disability into a career.  He doesn’t know how right he is.  I’ve always daydreamed.  In school I never remember a teacher telling me how talented I was.   I only remember them saying ‘Pay attention, Jodi.  You seem to be in another world.’

I wish I could go back and say, ‘Don’t bother me, I’m studying for my career.’

 

How did you go about getting published?

 

I tried everything.  For the first few years I wrote in several areas.  Read everything I could about writing, took every class, studied the markets.  I sent my work to everyone in New York.  Then, I heard about an RWA that was going to be in Dallas.  It was a dream come true.  I went to the conference, got a ten minute interview with an editor and talked her into taking a look at my work.  Two months later she offered me a contract. 

 

Where do you do most of your writing? 

I’m the writer in residence for West Texas A&M University.  I spend my mornings with my door open to students and my afternoons writing. 

 

Are you working on other things, if so what are they? 

 

I’m working on a new series set in a small town in Texas.  The first book, WELCOME TO HARMONY will be out in May 2010.  I’m very excited about this story.  I think it may be my best work to date.

 

What do you enjoy most about your writing?

 

I love the writing.  The stepping into another world, but I also love being a writer.  The best part of that is the wonderful people you meet along the way.  I love watching beginning writers stretch and learn to write deeper.  I love spending hours talking plot.  I love teaching at the Writing Academy every summer.  I love traveling and meeting writers. 

 

And then, best of all, are the readers who go along on my journey with me.  I love the readers who give me a hug at an autographing party because even though we’ve never met, they feel like I’m part of the family.  Sometimes, late at night, when I’m about to turn off the computer, I think about that reader out there waiting for my next book and I write an hour longer.

 

Thank you for inviting me.  May we visit again soon and until then, I’ll see you in fiction.

 

Jodi Thomas

www.Jodithomas.com  

Jodi thank you for all the wonderful information you have given us today I will await for your next visit.

Walk in harmony,

Melinda

 Mike I am so honored to have you here at the Pen to Paper Blog.  Your books sound so amazing.  Well let’s get started.

 

                       

 

Tell us something about you and your books.

 

I retired from the Air Force in 2007 following a 25-year career as a Special Agent with the Office of Special Investigations (OSI).  For reference, OSI is the Air Force equivalent of NCIS.  I held 13 different assignments throughout the world, among which were five tours as a Commander of various units, to include two Air Force Squadrons and a Wing.  I have extensive experience as a criminal investigator and a counterintelligence and counterterrorism specialist.  In my last assignment, I was Commander of OSI Region 8 with responsibility for all of Air Force Space Command.

 

My debut novel, Child Finder, received the Silver Medal for Fiction in the 2009 Military Writers Society of America’s Annual Awards program.  I write mystery/thrillers with a paranormal twist.  My protagonist is a man whose deep faith guides him through his page-turning perils.  I’m writing a series, the Child Finder Trilogy, which has a light, somewhat edgy spiritual theme…it is not typical Christian fiction.  But fans of that genre as well as mystery and thriller enthusiasts thoroughly enjoy it!

 

Do you have any advice for other writers?

 

My best advice is twofold: learn the business end of writing and publishing and approach your projects with this in mind.  The art and passion elements of writing are important, but in order to publish, you must understand how the industry itself works.  Secondly, be persistent and patient.  Landing an agent or a publishing contract won’t happen overnight.  It may even take years, but it will never happen if you become frustrated and give up.

 

What are your books about?

 

My debut novel, Child Finder, introduces my trilogy’s protagonist, Major Patrick O’Donnell, an Air Force Special Agent assigned to the Pentagon.  He begins experiencing haunting nightmares about children who have been abducted and murdered – before their bodies are found.  It quickly becomes apparent he has a special psychic gift the government is all too eager to exploit. He is drawn into a secret black world community, overseen by the FBI, which leverages his skills to solve child abductions.  But he soon discovers this black world has an even darker underbelly, when those close to him begin to die mysteriously…and his own family gets trapped in a twisted web of government intrigue.

 

When Child Finder launched in June, the Library Journal placed it on its Summer Reads List and called it a “compelling debut novel,” and “A real find.”  I was thrilled that such a prestigious publication would give me this honor.

 

My second book, Child Finder: Resurrection, launches next month, and continues my protagonist’s unusual journey.  It has been a year and a half since Agent O’Donnell left the TOP SECRET child rescue program after it went horribly off-track, resulting in murder and endangering his family.  And just when he thinks he’s comfortably put this painful past behind him, he receives a call from his mentor.  The murky, shadowy TOP SECRET community where he once was center-stage has been revised, revamped, resurrected!  The government needs his psychic skills more than ever.  A sick, twisted, menacing child killer is on the loose, and no one but Pat can stop him. But Agent O’Donnell soon discovers this new nemesis is more than he bargained for.  Nothing can prepare him for the psychotic genius he must fight…and the life and death cat-and-mouse game that entraps him! Once again, Pat must call upon his faith and strong spiritual connection with God to sustain and guide him, especially during his darkest hours as he battles…pure evil.

 

In the final book of the Child Finder Trilogy, Child Finder: Revelation, Special Agent O’Donnell is dispatched to Korea on a TOP SECRET mission to crack the disturbing abduction of a high ranking U.S. official’s children.  What he discovers about their sudden disappearance — especially where they have been taken — shocks the foundation of international relations. But more intriguing is what makes these particular children so special.  What O’Donnell learns about them, and himself, involves sensitive government secrets he regrets ever knowing.  These new revelations will rock his faith, his concept of life, and his understanding of his place in the universe.  Think Da Vinci code but with a very cool Vatican.

 

                             

 

 

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

 

My life’s experiences inspire my writing.  My hero blends elements of my own personality – deep faith, family values, and love of justice.  At the same time, my experiences as a USAF Special Agent served to provide me some rich perspective to give my plot danger and excitement, mystery and intrigue!

 

What promotional ideas can you give to other beginning authors?

 

Take advantage of all the Internet has to offer.  Network with authors and publishers via social sites like FaceBook and MySpace.  Develop a robust website that is based on a blog platform and keep the content rich and new.  This will increase an author’s visibility and search engine ranking, making the author more discoverable.

 

What advice would you give to somebody trying to get a literary agent?

 

Target agents with laser-like precision.  Search for agents who specialize in your unique niche or genre, and query using the precise guidelines the agent requires.  There are many good books out there which tell you what an agent wants in a query, but always check the agent’s website for changes and updates to what the books say.

 

As a child what did you want to do when you grew up?

 

I wanted to be an FBI agent and a writer.  I guess I accomplished both but with a different federal law enforcement agency.  I’ve been blessed to live both dreams.

 

As a writer and published author how do you feel about e-publishing

 

I’ve embraced it as the way of the future.  My publisher is readying my first novel for Kindle, so it should be up on Amazon in that format soon.

 

What advice would you give to other aspiring authors about getting their work placed with a big publishing company?

 

Get a great literary agent!  It sounds simple, but it is difficult.  I won’t mince words.  A good agent, with solid publishing house connections, can help land the big publishing house contracts.  It is not impossible, but highly improbable, to do so without an agent.

 

Please give us a list of all of your books currently available.

 

Child Finder is currently available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  I also sell signed copies of it via my website: www.childfinder.us.  Child Finder: Resurrection will publish next month, and Child Finder: Revelation will be out around December 2010.

 

How long does it take you to do research on the books you write?

 

Not too long.  Most of what I write comes from my own experiences and perspective as a federal agent.  My stories have loose historical back stories (like 9/11 and the Iraq War) so I do some basic research to ensure I keep certain facts accurate.

 

What inspired you to become a writer?

 

I’m an old storyteller at heart.  When they were younger, I would put my kids to bed each night by asking them to give me a random story character.  Within minutes I would craft a totally new story for them based upon the characters they selected.  For added fun, they would tell me to make it silly or scary…kind of like selecting an instant genre!

 

How did you go about getting published?

 

I started out on the traditional route of trying to find an agent.  I spent a good 18 months on the hunt, receiving dozens of rejection letters, and some occasional advice from an agent (which I followed graciously).  A number of authors with whom I networked suggested I search for a small publisher willing to consider me without an agent.  I eventually found TotalRecall Publications, a Houston-based publisher who offered me a three book contract.

 

Where do you do most of your writing?

 

Don’t laugh…in my pajamas with a laptop in bed sipping coffee in the morning!  I’m a morning person, so my thoughts are at their clearest, sharpest point in the morning.  Things are also much quieter then.

 

What do you enjoy most about your writing?

 

Making my characters come to life.  That’s why I love the trilogy idea…I get to keep my protagonist, his family, and his band of friends alive in each book.  In some respects, I sort of “mentor” my hero’s career just as I would mentor younger OSI Special Agents when I was carrying a badge.

Well Mike, I have really enjoyed you insights about publishing.  Hope to have you back at the Pen to Paper again real soon.

 

Walk in harmony,

Melinda

Beth, It is an honor to have you at the Pen to Paper today.  You have a world of information for us so let’s get started

 

                                                   

 

 

 

1. Tell us something about you and your books.  Thanks, Melinda.  I’m a Virginia author of historical and light paranormal romance, passionate about the past and my early American roots. I live on a farm in the Shenandoah Valley with my husband, assorted children and animals.  The valley and surrounding mountains are my inspiration.

 

1.  Are there any new authors who have grasped your attention? Quite a few at The Wild Rose Press. Too many to name. I mostly favor authors who write for the same lines I do, but not always.  I’m eclectic.

 

1. Do you have any advice for other writers?  Write what you love because you’re going to be doing it for a very long time.  Revise, revise, revise…

 

1. What’s your latest book about?  My latest release, one of three novels that came out in May 2009, is Through the Fire, a fast-paced romance with a The Last of the Mohicans flavor and a mystical weave.  The French and Indian War, a Shawnee warrior, an English lady, blood vengeance, deadly pursuit, primal, powerful, passionate…THROUGH THE FIRE.

 

    Blurb: At the height of the French and Indian War, a young English widow ventures into the colonial frontier in search of a fresh start. She never expects to find it in the arms of the half-Shawnee, half-French warrior who makes her his prisoner in the raging battle to possess a continent––or to be aided by a mysterious white wolf and a holy man.

 

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?  I do copious research.  For Through the Fire, I consulted with historians, colonial reenactors, anthropologists, archeologists, even the Shawnee themselves, in addition to all of my reading.

 

What promotional ideas can you give to other beginning authors?  Network on loops and social sites like myspace, Twitter, Facebook… have blogs, take part in interviews and chats, any FREE promotional opportunities, and invest wisely in those that cost money. 

 

What advice would you give to somebody trying to get a literary agent?  Check out AgentQuery.com, a great website that vets the agents they list.

 

Is there any thing you would like to say to other aspiring writers?  “You are not finished when you lose, you are finished when you quit.” Never give up on anything you truly love.  Glean what you can from all those rejections, accept constructive criticism, learn from it and go on.  People along your journey will help you; some of these are not even known to you yet.

 

As a child what did you want to do when you grew up?  Miss America, a great singer, actress, and now I hole up and write.  But I always wrote, kept diaries as a child.

 

As a writer and published author how do you feel about e-publishing?  E-books are the wave of the future and the future is now, but I also think there will always be a place for print.  My publisher offers both.

 

What advice would you give to other aspiring authors about getting their work placed with a big publishing company?  That’s a tough sell these days, but if a big company is what you really want then get yourself a good agent. Enter respected writing contests–being among the finalists gives you a shot at getting your work before an editor. I was a finalist in numerous contests including the 2008 Golden Heart.

 

    Please give us a list of all of your books currently available.  Somewhere My Love, Daughter of the Wind, Enemy of the King and Through the Fire.  I’m one of six Wild Rose Press authors in An American Rose Christmas, a historical romance anthology due out Dec. 11^th.

 

13.  How long does it take you to do research on the books you write?  Months, years…

 

How do you give credit to any research you do?  I’m not required to give credit in romantic fiction, but may mention some of my sources in blog posts or my website.

 

      What inspired you to become a writer?  I’m fascinated with the past and writing historicals is a wonderful way of communing with those who’ve gone before us.  I also love to read.

 

How did you go about getting published?  I honed the craft, learned from constructive criticism, never gave up and was open to new opportunities. 

 

     Where do you do most of your writing?  In my home, either on my sunspace, or living room or bedroom.

 

Are you working on other things, if so what are they?  I just signed a new contract for historical romance, Red Bird’s Song, also set in the Virginia colonial frontier with a The Last of the Mohicans flavor, inspired by actual events that happened to my early American ancestors. 

 

I’m also at work on a new light paranormal romance, the next in my ‘Somewhere’ series, a suspenseful Scottish time travel.

 

 

What do you enjoy most about your writing?

Seeing where the story takes me.  I do my research and plot the story as best I can but leave a lot of wiggle room.  I’m an organic writer.  My stories are character driven, so it’s essential I know them well.  I spend a lot of time rewriting chapter one as I get to know the main characters.  I’m also guided by dreams.

 

For more on my work please visit: www.bethtrissel.com

 

Thanks Beth and hope you visit again real soon.

 

Walk in harmony,

Melinda

 

Terry I am honored to have you here at the Pen to Paper Blog.  So, lets get started

 

                  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tell us something about you and your books.

I write the books I want to read – I’m an escape reader, and I love the characters, so I try to write about characters my readers will love as well. I’m also a mystery fan, so there’s always some sort of a puzzle in my books.

 

Do you have any advice for other writers?

Read. Study the craft. Read. Persist. It’s as much about sticking with it as talent. And Read.

 

What’s your latest book about?

My most recent release, HIDDEN FIRE, is a sequel to FINDING SARAH.

Returning from a stint as part of a task force on violent crime, Randy Detweiler is eager to reunite with Sarah Tucker in Pine Hills, but she’s having second thoughts about their relationship.  Can she deal with a cop who gets called away at a moment’s notice, especially one who won’t talk about his job?

Their reunion is cut short when a body is discovered and rumors fly that it’s the work of a serial killer. To make matters worse, the Town Council might disband their police department, and Randy’s under added pressure to solve the murder before they take action.  Forced to work under the radar, Randy struggles to balance work with a shaky relationship.

Sarah can’t cope with apparently meaning less to Randy than his job. Should she force him to choose between his job and the us she envisions for the two of them? All bets are off when Sarah herself becomes a suspect in Randy’s case. Before long, it’s more than their relationship that’s in danger.

My next release, NOWHERE TO HIDE, is the story of a small-town cop who quits the force and tries to leave her past behind her.

 

The trouble with running away is you take yourself with you. After a case

goes south, Colleen McDonald leaves her police job in Oregon for a fresh

start as a civilian in Orlando. The last thing she needs is some cop with

killer blue eyes coming around, looking for her missing landlord.  The

quickest way to get Deputy Graham Harrigan out of her life is to beat him at

his own game.

 

 

 

Finding Jeffrey Walters might be Graham’s ticket to a slot in the Criminal

Investigations Division. Determined to prove he’s the man for the job

despite the stain of an unsavory reputation passed down by his training

partner, he can’t afford to be distracted by the pretty tenant in Walters’

guest house.  A tenant who seems to know more about the case than he does.

A tenant with her own demons.

 

Will Colleen’s secrets destroy Graham’s chances for a promotion, or will

love make theirs a permanent partnership?

 

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

Anywhere. Everywhere. Music, television, eavesdropping, people-watching. It’s all about playing the “What If?” game.

 

What promotional ideas can you give to other beginning authors?

Register your domain name even if you don’t have a website. It’s inexpensive and you don’t want someone else to grab it. Visit blogs. Leave comments (not promotional ones). Go to conferences. Network.

 

What advice would you give to somebody trying to get a literary agent?

Polish that query letter. Check out blogs like Query Shark to see what will catch an agent’s eye. Don’t let rejections get you down. Keep submitting. It’s finding a perfect match, so make sure you research agents and submit to those who represent what you write. Agentquery.com is a good resource.

 

Is there anything you would like to say to other aspiring writers?

It’s about more than the writing. It’s a business. Be prepared.

 

As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

An animal psychologist or a  zookeeper. I never wanted to be a writer. I fell into it more or less by mistake, but it became a great creative outlet when I ran out of wall space for my needlepoint.

 

As a writer and published author, how do you feel about e-publishing?

 

I love it. E-publishers will look at a much broader range of stories than the big NY houses. It’s a way to learn both the craft and the business. It will require a lot more time doing promotion, however. And e-publishing is still in its infancy. It’s growing, but if you expect to make a living at it – well, don’t quit your day job. The exception is in the more erotic fiction.

 

 Please give us a list of all of your books currently available.

Finding Sarah, Hidden Fire, & What’s In a Name? are romantic suspense novels from Cerridwen Press. When Danger Calls is an action-adventure romance from Five Star Expressions.  Short stories from The Wild Rose Press: Out of Sight, Relationships, Hurricane Breeze, Romancing the Geek, Second Chance Rose. Coming soon, Nowhere to Hide, a full-length romantic suspense novel from The Wild Rose Press.  I’ve also got a couple of mystery short stories in an anthology from Highland Press, title and release date yet to be determined. You can find out more about them at my website, including a peek behind the scenes to see what inspired the writing, at http://www.terryodell.com and follow my blog, Terry’s Place, http://terryodell.blogspot.com

 

 How long does it take you to do research on the books you write?

It depends. I do the basics before I start writing, but research as I need more information. Since I don’t plot much in advance, I don’t know exactly what I need to know. The trick is knowing what you don’t know. Don’t make assumptions. Check your facts. Even the ones you think you know. I found out (fortunately before it was too late) that the make and model of car I had used to thwart my heroine’s escape didn’t come with a manual transmission, and I’d planned to use her inability to drive a stick shift as a major problem for her. I had to change the car (and now I research all cars before I let my characters drive them. The auto edition of Consumer Reports is a useful tool.)

 

How do you give credit to any research you do?

I acknowledge those who have helped me at the beginning of each book (and I hope I haven’t left anyone out when I do it. I try to make notes when people answer questions, but I’m not always good about it. Plus, it might be two years down the line before the book is accepted and published, so I might pick up information for one book that also applies to one that’s already in the production process.

 

How did you go about getting published?

I kept submitting. And submitting. The Wild Rose Press took one of my short stories (I was their first outside contracted author), and that gave me the confidence to keep submitting.

 

Where do you do most of your writing?

Most of it? At my computer in my office, which is a spare bedroom in our house. Although I also take my laptop when I travel, or even to Panera for a change of scenery.

 

Are you working on other things, if so what are they?

I’m working on a sequel to When Danger Calls, and also a straight mystery about a small town police chief.

 

What do you enjoy most about your writing?

I get to have fun talking to imaginary people (although they’re real enough to me after about 3 chapters).  What’s not to like? I mean, it sure beats doing laundry and cleaning toilets, right?

 

Terry, you are right with that.  Thanks for being my guest today

 

Walk in harmony,

Melinda