Interview Cynthia Scott

by

Molly Lemmons

 1) Where did you get the inspiration for the plot of your book?

From my grandfather, and from the Texas Panhandle where my mother grew up.

2) Do you relate in any way with the heroine?

In a very basic way. She's stepping out of her comfort zone to aid her family. I think every woman has done that at one time in her life.

3) When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer?

Consciously? About 15 years ago. Subconsciously, I think I've been dreaming up stories most of my life I started putting them on paper when I broke my leg in 1992 and desperately needed something to do while I was laid up:

4) Was the research extensive that you did for the  story?

Actually, it was. I live in Texas, and my mother grew up in the Panhandle where the story is based, so I thought I had that part of the research scoped. I was wrong. :::sigh::: In addition, I had to research blacksmithing, which I thoroughly enjoyed, and familiarize myself with Victorian manners. So, I spent a lot of time in libraries, on the internet, and I even took a road trip to the Panhandle to study the lay of the land.

5) Did you pattern your characters after anyone you  knew?

Most definitely. Will, the hero, is a tribute to my maternal grandfather. Like Will, my grandfather was orphaned at a very young age, separated from his twin and sent to live with non-relatives in Louisiana, who didn't treat him well. Though my grandfather wasn't a blacksmith, he was a carpenter, and very much a tall, strong, man-of-few-words type of individual.

My heroine is a nod to my grandmother's brilliant blue eyes, and her unusual middle name (Valentine, for being born on Valentine's Day) There, though, the resemblance ends, except of course for falling in love with my grandfather.

6. When you write, do you outline first, or do you just sit down and let 'er flow?

I plot out the major turning points, events and the emotions, then within that framework, I just let 'er rip.

7. What one word best describes your feelings when you write?

Invigorated.

8. Do you write your stories to leave your writer with any certain ideas or emotions?

Not consciously. I do notice that upon re-reading my work that certain emotions, ideas and behaviors pop up in my characters.

9. If yes, to number nine, what are those feelings and/or ideas that you desire to leave with the reader?

Well, in Will's Saving Grace, I felt a strong sense of self, of being the person deep down, not the superficial image expected by others.

10. Would you say that you plan other books? Sequels?

Definitely. Though I don't always begin a storyline with a sequel in mind, I have to admit that as I'm developing the plot, I watch for characters who can carry on the saga. For instance, I've already mapped out a sequel to Will's Saving Grace with Will's twin taking the lead role. Plus, sometimes stories just pop up as trilogies. It all depends on what inspires me in the first place.

11. How do you spend your leisure time?

Right now, I don't have a lot of leisure time. I'm married, with two teenage boys, a dog and a husband whose job takes him out of town and out of the country for extended periods of time. So, when I have a moment to relax, I usually watch TV, read one of my friends' books, or, um, take a nap.