Wings ePress Interview Cynthia Scott Masquerade

Interview Cynthia Scott

Carolyn Ann Aish

1. Tell us about yourself, Cynthia, where you live, family, etc.

Howdy y'all! Yep, I live in Texas, but I'm not a native. I'm originally from Oklahoma and have lived near Washington, DC, near Philadelphia and now near Dallas. I'm married to the best man alive and have two teenage sons and a Pembroke Welsh Corgi named Squiggy. Help, I'm the only woman trapped amongst all these males! <g>

2. Do you have another vocation other than writing?--And, how long have you been writing?

I began writing when both my sons started school full time, about 10 years ago, but I didn't get serious about writing as a vocation until I joined RWA in 1996. In September, I'll switch to writing part-time, though, because I start my new job as a 911 dispatcher for the Richardson, Texas, police department. Cool, huh?

3. Tell us a little about your new book, Masquerade, and something about the main characters.

Masquerade is a lighthearted Regency about impulsive, headstrong Elizabeth Covington, who, intending to ease her dying father's mind, cuts her hair and masquerades as the Covington heir, their cousin, James Langford. Her charade succeeds--sort of--until handsome and arrogant family friend Lord Barton arrives unexpectedly. They've always debated, argued and competed, and--much to her chagrin--she's always been madly attracted to him. She knows, under close scrutiny, her disguise can't fool him, yet his haughty, demanding manner incites rebellion and instead of confessing her scheme, she continues her charade, daring him to uncover the truth.

Lord Barton wants to be anywhere except near Elizabeth. Her spirited, outspoken nature and lack of deference to his rank has always rankled--and her bright green eyes and clever mind have always intrigued him. He is duty-bound to marry and provide an heir, but a demure, young wife is what he requires, not Dizzy Lizzy. Yet, he is a friend of the Covington family and must assist them. He instantly suspects Elizabeth's in disguise, but cannot publicly reveal his suspicions, not without understanding her motives. When he finally confronts her in the stable, instead of gaining a satisfactory explanation, he receives the same, strong jolt of attraction he has long denied. Unable to resist, he draws her into his arms and just as he is losing himself in her kiss, her aunt discovers them together, insisting he has compromised Elizabeth and must marry her. He does so, out of duty, but vows to keep the union one of mere duty, until scandal threatens them both. Then, working together to protect the honor of both their families, they discover that beneath the attraction lies a deep affection: a love strong enough to withstand anything.

4. What is your description of the 'perfect hero'?

Intelligent, honorable, great sense of humor and compassionate.

5. Describe the perfect heroine.

Intelligent, honorable, great sense of humor and compassionate.

6. Every book stands alone, but please tell us your writing/publishing history.

I have two traditional romances with Avalon Books, Hometown Reunion and Built To Last. I've also sold four short stories, including "Mistletoe Magic" currently with Treble Heart Books, and two how-to articles on writing.

7. Do you have any other books in mind? If so, please tell us something about them?

So many ideas, so little time! Yes, I have other books in the works. I've planned two sequels for Masquerade, one about Elizabeth's sister, Sabrina, the other about their cousin, James. Currently, I'm working on Hometown Courtship, the sequel to Hometown Reunion. It's the second of a trilogy, the third of which is Hometown Matchmaker, which is still in the plotting stage. Besides those, I have about five other books in various stages of plotting and characterization.

8. Who are your favorite authors?

All time favorite is Jane Austen. Except for Jane, I mostly read my sister authors, not only to support them, but because I also truly enjoy reading a book written by someone I know.

9. Tell us about the most exciting thing that has happened to you in your life to date.

I've had several experiences that stand out. My first sale was thrilling. My first fan letter was great. The first time a reader asked me, "When are you going to write another book?" thrilled me beyond description. Other writing moments are: My first Literacy Book Signing at RWA National Conference, the first time an editor called me, the first time I saw my work in print and held the completed, published book in my hands.

10. What are your long-term goals as a writer?

When I began writing, I planned only to write short contemporaries. But after I joined RWA and was exposed to so much more of the industry, I branched out into historicals and longer contemporaries. Now, my ideal writing situation would be to write Regencies and romantic comedies.

11. If you could choose any location in this world to write a book, where would it be?

Somewhere quiet. A cabin in the mountains. A house at the beach. A plush hotel room with room service. The location doesn't matter as much as the atmosphere. As long as I have music, my computer, guilt-free time to focus on my writing, and a refrigerator well-stocked with Diet Coke, all I need is quiet.