Interview *lizzie Star

by

Judith R. Parker

1. What genre do you write?

I write mostly in fantasy romance, although I have tried my hand at straight fantasy, gothic, romantica, and even have a pretty good contemporary (if I do say so myself <g>) waiting for final edits. I guess I just love to write.

2. Why did you pick this genre?

Even my childhood games often had to do with fantasy, so I guess it was a natural. When Mrs. Thorshine read The Hobbit, A Wrinkle in Time, and Tales of King Arthur to my sixth grade class, I was totally hooked. Later in life, it seems that romance took hold. Oh, how I rebelled against it. I would never read ‘those’ books like my mom did. But, working 11-7 in a nursing home left me plenty of time to read, without much selection in the home’s library. So, romance it was. And, surprise of all surprises--I really liked it!! Combining the two--well, that’s just the best of many worlds.

3. How long does it take you to write a book?

Hmm, that’s kinda hard to say, since I rarely work on just one book at a time. But I would give it a guess as to 4-7 months.

4. Do you have a set writing schedule or just squeeze the time to write?

About 4 months ago I joined an email loop--SurvivorWriters--and was required to upload 3 pages a day or be axed! So, that made a definite schedule for me--and I’m in my fourth month and have yet to be axed. I finished one manuscript and have started on another. But, in order to fill that three page requirement, there are definitely times I have to squeeze in the words. Breaks at work are good for that, and if folks leave me alone, I can easily do those pages and more.

5. Which scene in your book is your favorite?

Gads, that is a tough question. Perhaps it’s the scene where Jermanah and Kierigh discover a tantric form of sex. Makes me tingle every time!

6. Which scene was the hardest to write?

Surprisingly enough, it wasn’t the tantric scene. <g> There were some scenes and parts of scenes that were difficult because they brought up memories, but I can’t (and won’t) name a specific one.

7. Do you have a writing tip for would-be authors?

Ooh, another chance to give my favorite bit of advice. Never give up--never surrender. Beyond that--never, ever stop learning. Whether it’s something to help with historical or locale accuracy or what to do with those durned ol’ misplaced modifiers…your continued growth will amaze you.

8. Who is your favorite author?

I have many favorites--but Anne McCaffrey tops the list.

9. What is your all-time favorite book?

Now, this answer will change as time goes by. Can I go with a few books, the ones that never leave my shelves--except for a reread? How about McCaffrey’s Pern or Talent series, Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, Gone With the Wind. Other than that, my keeper shelf is pretty full. Both paper and pixel!