How did you get started in writing?
I've always been a reader, so one day I just decided to sit down and write an inspirational romance novel. What had me stirred up to do this was talking (via e-mail) to Love Inspired author Cynthia Rutledge. She started writing when her kids went to college. I started writing (because of her encouragement) in August of 2003 and I've been writing ever since.
I hear you have a couple of new releases. Will you tell us about them?
The books recently released are It's Not About Him (sequel to It's Not about Me) from Sheaf House. These are paperback books. The other release is my romantic suspense e-book, Danger at the Door. I also have an inspirational cowboy romance releasing in January 2010 called First Impressions. It's the first book in my Tombstone series.
From life and ideas that the Lord has put on my heart and in my mind.
Do you have a favorite book you’ve written? How about a favorite character?
That would be like asking me if I had a favorite kid. Not answering that one about my books.
Okay, say you have this great idea for a book, what do you do next? How much plotting do you do?
I think about it for several months, and when I get the muse I start writing. I never plot a thing on paper. It's all in my mind.
You’re also the founder of the Edgy Christian Fiction Lovers website, a great place for authors to mingle with one another and their readers, and to post news about their books. Can you tell us a little about it?
I started the site http://edgychristianfictionlovers.ning.com to create a safe place for Christians and writers who like edgy Christian fiction to talk about books and writing without restrictions of any kind. It's a great way to learn from each other and to share news. It seems to be a hit as people post all the time and there are over 500 members.
In your opinion what are the most important avenues an author should take in promoting their works?
Make a name for yourself where people know who you are and what you stand for. People who have read my books know I love to write sizzling romantic scenes and that I also love to get deep into faith issues and stuff like that. I have done this through blogs, interviews, contests, tours, my own website, other networking sites, facebook, etc. But to do this you have to have a consistent product. People hear Michelle Sutton and they know what to expect when they read something with that name on it. It's called branding. Because people get hooked on an author's voice more than individual stories. That's why people will have favorite authors.
What is one of the most memorable thing’s that has happened to you since you’ve become a published author (for example: an awesome book signing or that one email you received from a reader that really made your day)?
I had an out of town book signing where some young adults approached me all giggly because they met me in person. I've had that happen in several cities, actually. That's kind of endearing. I've also had several teens tell me they've read my book three or more times. I think that's great!
Now for a little fun! Do you have any unusual or not so unusual hobbies you’d care to tell us about?
Hmmm…I am too busy writing to be unusually engaged in another hobby. How about some fun facts…? I collect autographed books. Last year I reviewed 97 books. I hate driving. I'm addicted to gourmet coffees of any kind. I despise cooking. And up until I bought my new car this past February I haven't pumped my own gas or changed my oil in about ten years. I have a good hubby. I don't let him touch my new car, though. He has his own vehicles to trash :-)
What snack are we likely to see sitting next to your computer when you’re typing away on your next best seller?
Either chocolate or ice cream. Both are guaranteed to make me fat. Right now I'm eating a Blizzard from Dairy Queen. I'm so busted…
Okay, let’s pretend for a minute that you are stranded on a deserted island. What are three things you’d miss most or want with you on the island? This can include people, but you can’t have Matthew McConaughey because he’s already on my island *big grin*.
I'd miss my husband and kids most. But if I were a heathen and single I'd have Eric Bana on my island. He's a hottie. Hehehe
What last minute advice can you offer for any aspiring authors out there?
Keep writing until something sells. Don't give up.
Where can we purchase your books? And do you have a website we can visit?
My Sheaf House books (paperback) can be purchased just about everywhere.
My ebooks can be purchased at Desert Breeze Publishing and on Amazon.com and other ebook seller sites.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Sure. Check out my book video trailers for my releases. I have them on my facebook page… and also on my blogspot blog.
Thank you for joining me today, Michelle. All of your books sound like fun reads, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know you better.
5 comments:
Hi Michelle and Anne,
I enjoyed this interview. Blizzards are yummy. Why does all the good stuff have to have calories? :)
I'm glad Cynthia encouraged you and you became a published author. Good advice by the way about not giving up.
Great interview. Love Michelle's writing.
And her ever lasting encouragement. She's always about "keep writing, don't give up."
Great interview ladies! Michelle, your Danger at the Door sounds interesting, I'll have to check it out. I also loved your video of it.
Nice comments everyone. Thanks again for hosting me, Anne!
You're welcome Michelle. Glad to have you. I wish great success in your writing!
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