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