Without further ado – Linore!

Welcome! Please tell us about yourself – how/why did you start writing?

I started writing book length fiction when I wanted to read a regency romance that was a Christian romance, too. There were many delightful stories out there, but not a single one that had a heroine who was a believer in Christ. I wanted to answer the question, how would the regency have been for a Christian girl trying to be true to her faith? Thus, Before the Season Ends was born. I had the idea for years before I finally started writing, and it took many more years before I was published.

What is your writing day like?

I don’t really have “writing days.” I write during my “mom” days! I write when I need to, if I can, and now and then I warn the family that I’ll be really busy writing, such as when I want to finish a book.

How do you organize your writing?

I usually keep a notebook for each novel, and I’ll have names, birthdates of characters, or anything I might need to use again but may not remember off –hand. This way I won’t have to go searching through the manuscript for the information. I also use a chart of plot progression. Let’s say I have two plots going: a romance (the primary one) and a small mystery or problem; I list each chapter by number and then check boxes for whether or not I have included progress for each plot in every chapter. I sometimes check for how often someone or something is mentioned; whether foreshadowing was included, and stuff like that.

Do you have a list of characters that you’re saving for future use? What kind of information do you keep on these characters?

I tend to save plot ideas more than character ideas. I’ve never thought of a character and wondered what book to stick him or her in; however, I often think of a great plot idea and then I have to come up with the characters to make it happen.
What does your work space/office look like?
Right now I’m using a section of the large, carpeted landing area on the second floor. It’s not walled in on four sides, so it isn’t ideal, but I had to give up my office to be a bedroom for my youngest daughter. I’m working on making a new office but it just hasn’t happened, yet. However, I have my desk, pc, book shelves, files, boxes of files, and other office gear around me, so it’s not that bad. : ) What I miss is a phone line. I have to use my cell up here.
What’s your go-to snack when writing?
I don’t really have a go-to snack, but I must have coffee in the mornings, and then a steady supply of ice water or iced tea (non-sweetened, or diet). In winter, it’s hot tea and hot chai tea.
If you could recommend one NOVEL what would it be? Why?
Oh, what a tortuous question! I guess I’d say, Gone With the Wind because it’s a feat of unbelievable success. Any writer should be interested in the way Mitchell keeps her reader turning pages—for over a thousand of them. It’s a romance, it’s a bit of history, it’s a southern perspective novel of a unique time in this country, and it’s just so darn good that you have to finish it. Amazing, considering the length. (Now don’t email me because I didn’t say Pride and Prejudice, readers! While P&P is a masterpiece to my mind, it is not “universally” as accessible, in the sense that people nowadays struggle with the language more.)
If you could recommend one CRAFT book, what would it be? Why?
 I hate to confess that I hardly ever find time to read books on craft! I do read online articles and newsletters often, but one book I did find helpful (I used it while writing my award-winning novel, The House in Grosvenor Square) is First Draft in 30 Days, by Karen Wiesner. I probably should read lots more books on craft, but this book is helpful in moving you to organize your writing into a cohesive manuscript.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I’ve been working on books that are a bit different for me: one, which is with my agent now, is a contemporary romance; and another is in editing stages (polishing), which is a regency/time-travel. I love both books and think my readers will, too.
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A BIG thanks to Linore for taking the time to sit down for this interview! Please leave your questions, comments, and random statements with your email address to get entered to win Linore’s book. Have a great day!