Interview Sylvia Rochester

by

Scott DeLane

1. Sylvia, do your characters ever get away from you? If so, how do you get them back in line?

They might head in an unexpected direction, but never really get away from me. Often I find the unexpected exciting and go with it. If not, I have no problem reining in a character.

2. What inspired this story?

Louisiana has many plantation homes, and I have visited most of them. I’ve often wondered about the affluent lifestyles of the owners, how the legacy is passed from one generation to another, and how the new owners must cope with those who would exploit them. My heroine finds herself in such a predicament.

3. What are you trying to achieve in the mind of you readers?

Mainly, I want them to enjoy a good story, and When Evil Loves offers a most intriguing plot. Accepting responsibility and trusting in one’s judgment is paramount as Lindsey struggles to overcome the trauma of the past, unaware of the evil that awaits her.

4. When you begin a story, do you know how it will end?

Most of the time I have a general idea, but my current work in process is the exception. I’m curious to find out what will happen in this one.

5. From what writer have you learned the most?

I can’t point to one writer. Rather, I’ve gleaned many tips from a variety of good authors.

6. If you could have coffee with anyone, living or dead, real or fictional, who would it be?

Jesus Christ.

7. Can anyone create a good novel or does it take a special talent?

I believe there is a story in each of us. How to tell the story takes skill. Writing is a craft, and the more one writes, the better he/she becomes.

8. Would you rather write one great novel or five good ones?

Oh, I’d much rather write five good ones... more if possible. I can’t write fast enough to tell all the stories in my head, and I most certainly hope the last one is better than the one before it.

9. What makes a good fictional story?

Great characters who encounter conflict. The reader must fall in love with your characters and pull for them to overcome their adversity. Relating to the characters and watching them grow is crucial. If you can master that, you’ll have a winner.

10. What is next on the drawing board?

I’m halfway through a sequel to Shadow of the Soul. Next, I hope to write a sequel to When Evil Loves.