Interview Judith R. Parker
by
Susanne Marie Knight
Q. How long have you been writing?
A. Well over 20 years if you count articles for trade journals on boring subjects like accounting and four short stories for the "Trues".
Q. What type of writer are you--do you outline your book before you write or write as you go?
A. As I go! I once outlined a book. When I finished the outline, I knew all about the story so I never wrote the book.
Q. DEADLY DIAMONDS is an intriguing title. What is it about?
A. It is a suspense novel. I only write mystery, suspense and westerns.
Q. What was the most difficult scene for you to write in DEADLY DIAMONDS?
A. The attic scene when she is in August's room and finds the newspaper clippings.
Q. What was the most enjoyable scene?
A. When she is in the cabin with Fish.
Q. What type of writing schedule do you have?
A. I don't really have a schedule. When the words are flowing, I can write for hours.
Q. How do you handle writers' block? Any tips for us?
A. Good question. I generally have 2-3 books going at the same time. If I run into a block, I stop with that book and work on one of the others.
Q. Who is your favorite author?
A. I have several but I guess my all time favorites are Dick Francis and Louis L'Amour.
Q. What type of books do you like to read?
A. Mystery and suspense. I like books that move!
Q. What's the best writing advice you've ever received?
A. Some one once told me to get a copy of Maren Elwood's book, CHARACTERS MAKE YOUR STORY. It's old but it is the best and most helpful writing book I've ever read.
Q. Do you have any advice for up and coming authors?
A. Write what you like to read, write the story that is in your head, write about places you know. But mostly..write..write..write!
Q What's next for Judith R. Parker?
A. I have another western coming out next month with a different publisher and I have three WIP going.