|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 |
Where do you get your ideas? |
 |
Heaven only knows <g>. Sometimes a story starts with a specific scene. More often, it starts with a character and I think, "What's the worst thing that could possibly happen to this character?" And then I make it ten times worse than that! For example, in NOTHING TO FEAR, I thought that the worst thing for Dana Dupinsky would be unwillingly aiding a criminal when she's dedicated her life to aiding the victims. A few times I've taken ideas from news headlines, like the crimes "The Humble Servant" avenges in I'M WATCHING YOU. |
 |
|
|
|
Will we see David Hunter's (DON'T TELL) story? |
|
|
You'll see David again in COUNT TO TEN (Feb, ’07). CTT is Mia’s story, though. David WILL get his own story soon, I promise! Some of you ask about Tom Hunter (DT) and Rachel Reagan (IWY). Since they're both teens, I thought I'd give them a few years to grow up :-) But eventually, yes, I'd love to write about them, too! |
 |
|
|
|
How long have you been writing? |
|
|
I wrote stories when I was a little girl, and have chuckled with some of my writer friends that even way back then, my characters had lots of life issues! One of my earliest stories (I was 12) was about twin teenaged sisters. One dies in a horse-jumping accident and the other must go on. Then I got sucked into the world of science and math in high school. I went on to college where I majored in chemical engineering--I didn't have much time for reading or writing in those days. It wasn't until I was in my late twenties that I started reading again, mainly because I travelled a great deal and I was terrified to fly. Books gave me the temporary escape from the reality of being at 30,000 feet with somebody else in control of the wheel, ha! I read a lot of different kinds of books on those flights, but quickly realized I LOVED romance. Then, about 13 years ago, I started seeing movies in my mind--one scene in particular. It was driving me crazy, so I finally wrote it down, just to make it stop <g>. That was my first book and I've never stopped writing! |
|
|
|
I have an idea for a book. What can I do? |
|
First, sit down and start writing it! I know that sounds simplistic, but it's true. Don't worry about form or looks, just start writing--let the ideas come out. Having said that, I highly recommend joining a writing group. If you write romance, look up the closest Romance Writers of America® chapter at Romance Writers of America ®. If you don't write romance, look them up anyway. Their workshops on writing craft and the publishing business in general are some of the best out there. Good luck! |
|
|
|
Are there really men like Steven Thatcher and Abe Reagan? |
|
Yes. I married one. He's the best man on earth and the reason I love romance. |
|
|
|
What are you working on now? |
|
I just finished DIE FOR ME, Vito Ciccotelli’s book (he’s Tess’s brother from YOU CAN’T HIDE). More on this book later – it will be released Sept. ’07. I’m just now getting into a new story, and I’m not 100% sure who will be the main characters. When I know – I’ll update it here! Again, stay tuned! |
|
|
|
Who do you read? |
|
I have my old favorites and new faves as well. I love my collection of Nora Roberts, of course. My favorites are the "Born In" trilogy and the Quinn Brothers (ahhh). My Linda Howard books are equally well-worn. For historicals, I turn to Andrea Kane. I’ve recently discovered Brenda Novak and Debra Webb – awesome romantic suspense!! I’ve started listening to audio books when I’m on the elliptical runner at the gym – I’ve gotten hooked on Michael Connelly’s Harry Bosch books – highly enjoyable!! Go to For Readers Note to Readers and scroll down for a list of my favorite authors. |
|
|
|
How do you research your books? |
|
Because I am basically shy (yes, this is true and don't believe anyone who says otherwise <g>), I research on the Internet first. If I can't find what I'm looking for, I'll find someone to ask. There is a lengthy process of stomachaches and self-confidence build up, during which I tell myself, "What's the worst they can say?" No, right? Ack. I have, however, built up a list of police officers, active and retired, who have kindly agreed to answer questions I have. One even volunteered to let me ride in a squad car, should I ever visit their town! I really love to watch the Discovery, History, and Court channels. You can get a lot of neat info from shows like "Forensic Files." But mostly, Internet...
|
Karen Rose bestselling author
