Interview Sue Thornton

by

Sherry Mathewson

1. First of all, I'd like to know the name of your novel and what inspired you to write it?

The name of my book is Whispers In The Rain. It is the final book in The Dark Room Series. I needed to tell the story of Dahlia--the last remaining sister.

2. How long have you been writing?

I started writing about 8 years ago.

3. Do you have other novels published, if so what and by who?

I have several books out with Wings EPress: Baltimore Beauty, and Promises Broken are two stand alone books. The Dark Room, Serendipitous Rose, and Clara's Legacy are all part of The Dark Room Series.

4. Has anyone ever tried to discourage you from writing, especially before getting word you would be published with Wings ePress?

Yes, my ex-husband--before he was my ex. He liked to tease and taunt me about my writing.

5. Is there a particular person you use as a model for each main character?

Whatever guy I've seen that has attracted my attention by his looks--sometimes I use his mannerisms, or other times I make them up. The women each have a piece of me in them--but, of course, I could never look like any of them.

6. When do you sit down to write?

I usually write from 6:30 a.m. until 7:30 a.m., then from 11:45 until 12:45 during my lunch break at work. Sometimes I will write on the weekend if my muse is working with me.

7. Do you enjoy research and what are your best sources?

I am on quite a few writing loops, which give me information. I have several deputy sheriffs I work with that will answer my questions, if I need help. I have wonderful people to interview--like the volunteer staff at the Lincoln Community Playhouse for Whispers, and of course, my never ending supply of books overflowing the shelves in my home.

8. What types of stories do you like to read?

I read mostly suspense, but I enjoy romances now and then. It depends on how much I want to have to think when I'm reading.

9. Do you brainstorm ideas with other people?

I have a wonderful critique group. Lizzie, Sandy, and Cindy all help whenever I have a problem. In fact, Lizzie has just helped me come up with the book cover idea for my book that will be released in May 2005, Till Death Do We Part.

10. Who, other than friends and family members, have been strong influences in your writing career?

I've had wonderful friends, and people who I work with that have helped me a lot. I would have to give special thanks to Matt Landis for his influence with Whispers and his encouragement to keep going with the idea. I especially miss my good friend, Ethan Jensen, who has encouraged me, read every book I've written, helped me through the problems and asked me to give him some insight on his own writing. Ethan is fighting cancer and I pray for a quick recovery for him, as I miss seeing his smiling face every day. I have met many excellant writers at conference, some have taught me an awful lot, and others have offered their encouragement. I thank all of them. But most of all, I have to thank Shena Skinner for telling me she doesn't have anything to read, because she's read all of her favorite author's books and is anxious for the next one to come out. When I asked her who it was, she told me I was her favorite. How about that for some encouragement?

11. Are you presently working on another novel, if so what is it about?

Oh boy, that's a loaded question. Till Death Do We Part will be released in May 2005, it's a paranormal romance involving past lives. I've completed Cider Creek Plantation, which I'm doing edits on now, which is a story of a woman who inherits the two hundred year old family estate, which was one of the safe houses in the Underground Railroad. Brit Campbell turns it into a Bed and Breakfast, but not all of her guests are of the flesh and blood variety. I'm also working on two other novels, Raven‘s Quest and The Healing Touch, which are part of a series. They are also paranormal romances. Raven's Quest involves a psychic, and The Healing Touch involves a woman who doesn't believe in magic any longer, yet she is able to heal. I don't want to say much more. You'll have to wait until they come out to find out what happens.

Thank you for all of your interesting questions, Sherry. I look forward to seeing your book.