Interview Jewel Stone

by

Judith R. Parker

1. How long have you been writing?

Although I loved to write in my youth, I didn't begin writing as an adult until the fall of 1999, when I began my first novel ISLAND PROMISE.

2. In what genre do you write and why did you choose it?

I write women's fiction and romance because it is what appeals to me as a reader and a writer. Relationships are an intricate part of everyone's lives and exploring the dynamics are both fascinating and satisfying.

3. Do your characters live out your own fantasies?

No, they are completely independent people with their own dreams, goals, fantasies and lives. I'm just the tool that brings their story to life for others to share.

4. What books have you written?

Island Promise, Escapade For One and Wings of Love are the novels I have currently published. My short story A Delightful Christmas will be out this November and I have more novels in negotiation for publication and am working on several other projects as well. More details on my writing can be found at http://authorjewelstone.com

5. Does your family support your writing efforts?

Yes. Right from the beginning my family has supported my decision to begin writing full time. My son never complains about having Cocoa Puffs for breakfast, lunch and dinner on the days my characters demand my full attention. Coming in from a long day at work, my husband casually steps over the piles of research books scattered around the house like a minefield and simply picks up the piles of wadded paper I toss over my shoulder and adds them to the fire. My daughter says it's fine when I show up at school in my slippers and PJs (as long as I don't get out of the car), she knows a scene came to me and I made the mistake of sitting down to write it before I dressed and then suddenly it was time to pick her up.

6. Who are your three favorite authors?

I prefer not to pick and choose a favorite. There are author's I'm drawn to more than others, but I like trying new authors, books and genres all the time.

7. Do you have a regular writing schedule?

Yup, every day. No excuses. It may not always be fresh pages, but I always do some research, editing or plotting and spend several hours on the business end of my career--promotion, proposals, website, etc.

8. How do you handle interruptions? Writers block?

Interruptions are a part of life. Deal with them if it's important, make note to handle later if possible and get back to work. Don't believe in writer's block.

9. What one piece of advice would you give beginning writers?

Do it. You'll never reach your dreams if you don't.

10. What are you working on now?

Right now I've just finished up another romantic suspense, plotting another and writing a novella. I've always got several projects going at once!