Interview Janet Cooper

by

Judy Leigh Peters

1) Tell us a little about yourself.

A few years ago, my husband and I moved from the cold of Philadelphia to the Low Country of South Carolina. The warmth of the people here shines through in all they do. There is a gentleness that I found missing up north and a kindness that speaks of all. This is truly a great place to live and create.

2) What first made you decide to write a novel? Was there someone who inspired you?

After reading my first “bodice ripper”, I was hooked. Then a friend told me about Romance Writers of America and I joined and started writing.

3) What type of books do you write?

I love writing historical romances with a touch of mystery and suspense.

4) Have you been writing long? What is your normal writing day like?

Even as a little girl, I enjoyed making up stories. My sisters told me I couldn’t tell the difference between truth and lies, so writing or at least thinking about writing has been a part of my life for eons. On a productive day, after an early walk--with my dog--and a quick breakfast with my hubby, it’s off to the upstairs office and my latest novel. On a lazy day, my email messages come before my manuscript.

5) What is your favorite genre?

I’m very catholic in taste and vary, depending on my mood. However, I love any story with a twist.

6) Do you like to listen to music when you write? If so what kind do you like?

No, I must have quiet to compose. When I’m relaxing, I enjoy light classical and early rock and roll.

7) Does one special moment in your life stand out?

The day I learned I was pregnant. The idea of creating a child stills stirs my soul. A book is similar because the story begins with a tiny, tiny idea.

8) What does your family think about your writing?

They are very supportive. My hubby loves to see me sitting at the computer composing.

9) Can you give us the name of three books you have on your shelf that are a must for every writer?

MODERN ENGLISH USAGE, by Fowler, Oxford Press.

ROGET’S THESAURUS in dictionary form.

WEBSTER’S NINTH NEW COLLEGIATE DICTIONARY (best of historical writers.)

10) Do you have any words of wisdom to new writers?

Every day something happens that has the potential to become a story. Take time at the end of the day--perhaps while cleaning up the kitchen, or doing a mindless chore, to review what you experienced and see how a small situation can be developed to become the center part of a story. Example: At a traffic light, you notice a mother and child crossing the street and the little girl is pulling away or screaming or pouting. Now, what if the mother isn’t a mother but a kidnapper . .

11) Where do you see yourself five years from now?

Hopefully, with a few more books finished and published.

12) Who are your favorite writers?

Anne Perry. Elizabeth Peters. Donna Clayton.