Interview Judith Miller

by

Jane Toombs

1. What inspired you to write Searching?

I live in the Pacific Northwest, and there have been stories about the Sasquatch all my life. I guess I want them to exist, and more than likely I don't want anything to happen to them.

2. How long have you been writing?

I have been writing since I was about 40. I was typing for the son of my boss who was writing stories, and my Boss told me that as much as I read I ought to be able to write too.

3. Did you have any difficulty or any interesting experiences doing research for the book?

No, my husband and I went on several trips into the mountains. We didn't get lost, and unfortunately, we didn't see a Sasquatch either.

4. What would be your advice to an aspiring writer seeking to be published?

Read, read, read. Then read some more. When you have actually started your book, find a good critique group, either where you live or online.

5. Who are your three favorite authors and why?

That is a hard question. I have about 100 more than three. I suppose for romance, it might have to be Nora Roberts, for mystery, Ridley Pearson, for thrillers, James Patterson.

6. How do you feel about writers (both published and unpublished) entering writing contests?

I guess I have always felt writing contests are very expensive for what you get out of them. I have only entered one, and I won second prize, which got me an interesting critique from an editor, but rarely will a writing contest get you published. Just my opinion, of course.

7. What's your favorite genre, or subgenre, to read and to write?

Paranormal is my favorite to write, and I love to read it, too. I sure am glad more paranormal is available to be read nowadays. Which reminds me, another of my favorite authors is Maggie Shane.

8. Have you always wanted to become a writer?

No, when I was a child, I didn't think I could. I thought you had to go to college, or at least starve in an attic. Writing essays and such was easy for me, but it didn't occur to me to keep at it. As I told you, my onetime boss kind of gave me a shove. And I doubt if he would even remember.

9. Any pets?

Not anymore. I have multiple sclerosis and am in a wheelchair, which would make picking up after the cat or dog difficult.

10. Would you advise an epubbed author to join EPIC?

Yes, I would. Thank you for reminding me. I tried to join sometime ago, and because I was in the process of buying a new computer, I forgot all about it. I think joining organizations to get as much writing and promotion help as you can is an excellent idea.