To launch my Writers on Writing column, my first author is Tina Gabrielle whose debut novel ‘Lady of Scandal’ was released yesterday. Thanks for joining me today, Tina! Let’s get started.
What is your brainstorming process for a new book?
First, I start with a kernel of an idea. My work helps in this regard. I am a former mechanical engineer and attorney, and the legal cases that have crossed my desk were quite colorful. Second, setting plays an integral part in my brainstorming process. I love intelligent female characters. The heroine in my first book, LADY OF SCANDAL, is an anonymous investor in the London Stock Exchange. The combination of an intelligent and ambitious heroine in a historical setting provides instant combustible conflict since both qualities in a woman held little value to men in Regency period London. Once I have a basic plot, I write a rough outline of the book. I used to be a pantser, but I found I could never make it through the sagging middle. I eventually realized that I needed more direction, and then I turned into a plotter. I write a rough outline, definitely not a polished synopsis, and I find myself returning to that outline time and again when I get stuck in the middle of a manuscript. After I have a rough outline, I write a solid first draft and then go back and fill in any research that I had left blank. Lastly, I rework sentences to strengthen them if needed, and polish the manuscript.
Can you explain your typical work week day?
Crazy as it sounds, my days vary. Life oftentimes gets in the way of a set schedule. As well as my own family, I cared for two sick parents and recently lost my father this year to cancer. I have learned to take it day by day. Some days I am able to write multiple chapters and others I stare at the computer screen in frustration. I have learned to be flexible—to grab time and use it when I can. I often write late at night and on weekends. That being said, I do have a publishing contract with Kensington which requires me to complete a 100,000 word manuscript in less than a year.
Tell us about when you made the decision to write.
I have always been a writer! I can’t put a date on when I penned my first story. I wrote as a teen, but I didn’t really consider publication until I joined Romance Writers of America about six years ago.
What suggestions do you have for aspiring writers?
The most important suggestion I have for aspiring writers is to join organizations dedicated to writers and the publishing field. I am a member of Romance Writers of America, NJ Romance Writers and Liberty States Fiction Writers. Until I found these groups, I was a little lost. They have been so helpful and informative. I have learned from every meeting that I have attended and have met writers who share my hardships as well as my good news. These organizations offer annual conferences where you can network with agents and editors, as well as other authors—published and pre-published. Large booksellers, such as Borders and Barnes & Noble, also offer writers groups in their stores which may be helpful.
I also recommend a critique partner. I met my critique partner through NJ Romance Writers, and I am able to bounce ideas off her and make my scenes shine. But you have to be careful that you pick a partner that is right for you, one that encourages you as well as points out what needs to be changed. There are those that like to put you down. It’s like dating, you have to find the right chemistry.
Aspiring writers can also look to educational institutions for fiction writing classes. I took two fiction writing classes which were offered by a published author at my local community college at night.
Lastly, and most importantly: Never give up! No matter how many rejections you receive. Keep learning. Keep writing. Keep trying.
Tell us about what you’re working on right now and what we can expect from you in the near future.
I write historical romance. My first book, LADY OF SCANDAL, is a Regency-set historical which will be released by Kensington/Zebra on September 1, 2009. Here’s a quick blurb. The heroine, Victoria Ashton, is an anonymous investor in the London Stock Exchange whose hopes of independence are shattered when her father’s enemy, Blake Mallorey, assumes the family debts and presents her with a stark choice: live with him as his mistress for one year, or condemn her family to bankruptcy. Scoundrel he may be, but Blake will not force anyone into his bed. He intends to seduce Victoria, one wicked kiss at a time. But with a woman as spirited and sensual as Victoria, seduction works both ways—and a plan rooted in revenge can blossom into a scandalous passion.
I’m working on the second book in the series, A PERFECT SCANDAL, which should be available from Kensington in 2010. Meanwhile, I’m thrilled to have my first book signing for LADY OF SCANDAL on September 26, 2009 at 3:00 PM at Borders, 4010 Dearborn Circle, Mount Laurel, NJ.
I also love paranormals and have an idea in the back of my mind for a series that I would like to try out one day. More information can be found on my website. www.tinagabrielle.com
Thank you for the great interview, Tina! e look forward to more books from you in the future!
Tina Gabrielle is a former mechanical engineer and attorney whose love of romance novels helped her get through years of academia. She often picked up a romance and let her fantasies of knights in shining armor and lords and ladies carry her away. After multi-publishing for a prestigious law journal, she has finally fulfilled her dream of writing fiction. She lives in New Jersey. Tina loves to hear from readers. Visit her website at www.tinagabrielle.com.
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