Lil Duncan and I have know each other online for several years know. I love hosting her for two reasons – I get to see what’s up with her life and she always shares such great information. And this year she’s sporting a great new head shot too! Here’s a look into Lil’s writing life.

What genre do you write? How did you pick it?
Most of my books are mystery or suspense, including romantic suspense. I didn’t pick it—it picked me. It’s my favorite genre to read and so…that’s what I write. Though I’m really excited, I have my first women’s fiction novel coming out this October, Puzzle Home. It’s a complete departure from my usual writing.

What are your favorite genres to read? Why?
Suspense and romantic suspense are my favorites, but I have started enjoying science fiction and fantasy novels as well.

How long did it take you to complete your first manuscript (published or not)?
I had no idea what I was doing when I wrote my first novel. It took almost exactly one year to finish. Afterwards I started studying writing and discovered I had every no-no that the experts tell you to stay away from!

Have your follow-up novels been easier or harder to write? Why do you think that is?
In some ways the first one was the easiest since I didn’t have any rules to follow. The more I learned about writing, the more rules I imposed on myself. But, in the end it’s not about the rules, it’s about the story.

What’s surprised you the most about the book-publishing process?
The fact that most writers don’t get rich or famous! Just kidding. I guess it would be how long it takes to get a book from conception to birth. The gestation period is way too long.

What’s been the most challenging part of getting a book published?
The marketing of the book. Lots of writers, including me, are introverts. That means it’s really hard to get out there and market yourself and your books. But it’s a necessity, so I’ve learned how to do that even if it’s difficult.

What’s your favorite part of the publishing experience?
Writing the first draft and watching the story unfold.

For learning the writing craft, which do you prefer – books or conferences? Why?
I think both are good. Books have the advantage of you being able to go back and refer to them over and over. But nothing replaces a conference for the variety of topics available and the people you meet.

If you could recommend one writing conference, what would it be? Why? (If you haven’t attended one, which one would you like to attend? Why?)
I’ve been to several smaller conferences but ACFW’s annual conference is truly amazing!

If you could recommend one writing book, what would it be? Why?
I don’t think there can be only one book. There’s way too much to learn about writing to put into one book. And then there’s the fact that each writer is different as well. What works for one writer won’t work for another.

If you could pick any of your novels to be made into a movie, which one would you pick? Who would you want to play the lead roles, and why?
That’s a really hard question since I love all my books but…I guess I’d pick my Deadly Communications series. Since the main character is a short feisty speech therapist (based on me), I would pick myself to play the lead. And my romantic interest would be Richard Gere…no Harrison Ford…no Robert Redford…no….oh too many to choose from!

Is there anything else you’d like to add?
If you’d like to learn more about me or my books, check out my blog, Tiaras & Tennis Shoes, at www.lillian-duncan.com  Thanks for having me!

Thank you so much for appearing on my blog! Have a blessed day!