Indelible Writers Blog Hop featuring an interview with Serena Zane!

For my blog in this week’s Blog Hop with Indelible Writers, I have chosen to interview the prolific Serena Zane about her e and small press books. Each comment posted to today's blog will be entered into a gift certificate drawing for some chocolate! The winner will be notified in one week's time.

Welcome to my blog, Serena!
Tell us a little about yourself.
When did you start writing and why?

Like many authors, I have always written, from the time I could hold a pencil. I actually have a copy of my first romance novel written in pencil, on purple and pink construction paper, in big block letters. It’s from Kindergarten and the title is actually My First Romance Novel.
However, I didn’t start writing professionally until 2001 when I discovered that I could no longer travel with my acting troupe due to health reasons. I decided that my next career step would be writing. I love creating a world where I can always find my happily ever after. Looking back, I think perhaps it was always meant to be.

How hard was it to break into print? Lots of rejections? Years of distractions?

After writing my first novel, Dark Diamonds, it took many query letters and rejections before I found the right publisher. I got disheartened for a while and actually put it back in a drawer for several years until my husband Gary, then my fiancé, encouraged me to pull it out and try again. I did, and five query letters later I am with a wonderful publisher who wants more.

What have you published? Where can we find them?

I have several eBooks out which are all available on Amazon.com & some on BarnesandNoble.com and one in paperback with more to be released shortly.
Here is the list:

Dark Diamonds – A Suspense Romance Novel, available on Amazon in eBook, sold in paperback at Orca Books in Lacey, WA
The Hunter Diaries Anthology – Four Paranormal Romance Short Stories entwined around Stephanie Wills and her friends. Available on Amazon.com in eBook & Paperback, sold at Orca Books in Lacey, WA.

Snow Beast – Book One in the Dark Warrior serial - A Paranormal Romance Short Story available in eBook on Amazon.com & BarnesandNoble.com
A Cross to Bare – Book Two in the Dark Warrior Serial - A Paranormal Romance Short Story available in eBook on Amazon.com & BarnesandNoble.com
Bane – Book Three in the Dark Warrior Serial - A Paranormal Romance Short Story available in eBook on Amazon.com & BarnesandNoble.com

The Christmas Present – Book One in the Hunter Diaries - A Paranormal Romance Short Story available in eBook on Amazon.com & BarnesandNoble.com
Bite Me – Book Two in the Hunter Diaries - A Paranormal Romance Short Story available in eBook on Amazon.com & BarnesandNoble.com
Belief – Book Three in the Hunter Diaries - A Paranormal Romance Short Story available in eBook on Amazon.com

Insidious Whispers – Book Four in the Hunter Diaries - A Paranormal Romance Short Story available in eBook on Amazon.com

Follow the Heart – A Sweet Romance – Available in eBook on Amazon.com

A Court of Love – A Sweet Romance – Available on Amazon.com

Have you always written in the same genre?

I love romance, and believe that when one reads fiction they do so to be entertained. I don’t enjoy sullen or sad books either for reading or writing. I love obstacles for my characters, but I want them to find their HEA. So, yes, I have always written Romance. However, I like different subgenres. I currently write contemporary suspense romance, paranormal romance, and sweet romance with a hint of time travel.

Do you have any aspirations to write in a different genre?

No. I love the genre I write in and don’t plan on branching out at this time. I have more than enough stories rolling around in my head to last me for years.

What writer’s associations are you associated with?
I belong to Romance Writers of America.

Have you belonged to those groups from the beginning of your writing career?
I joined the RWA in 2006, so, no. I found them through my mother, Darlene. She is a wonderful support and source of encouragement. Since joining RWA, I have learned such valuable information, I can’t imagine not being a part of the group. The ladies of the Olympia Chapter are a fount of advise that I don’t believe I could do without. They are a fabulous support network.

What are you working on right now?

A single title Paranormal Romance (around 300 pages or so) based in Florida. I don’t want to divulge too much, but it involves vampires, shapeshifters, demi-gods, crime, and passion. I have heard from readers that they would like to have longer stories - especially in the paranormal romance category.
So, I am planning on releasing The Change, the next in the Dark Warrior serial soon. At the request of my readers, the next several books in that series will be a bit longer. Think novella length.

I also have three novel length books in with my publisher currently that will be released this year as contemporary suspense romance. There are always irons in the fire where writing is concerned, and I always have something I am working on.

Do you plan and plot out your stories before writing, or do you just write from your head as a pantster would?

I consider myself a Plottser, that’s a combo between a plotter and a Pantster. You see, I plot out my stories ahead of time, but around halfway through the characters take on a life of their own and they often steer the story in a different direction than I originally planned to go.

Out of all the books you’ve written, which is your favorite story and which is the favorite character you have created? Why?

That’s a hard one, I love them all. If I had to choose, it would have to be the book I am currently working on. The main character is Shawna Davies. She is a narcotics detective in South Beach, Florida. She carries a secret in her genetics that she doesn’t even know about. She’s sassy and down to earth, and stands up for herself. I believe in strong independent women, and Shawna is definitely that. I had a great time writing her.

Out of all the books you’ve read, which is the character you most wish that you had created?

Cydney Brighton from Crimson Rogue. She’s tough, sensual, and been through Hell, literally.

Which is the character that you would most like to meet in real life? Why?

Lucian Darantranzanoff, from the Dark Series by Christine Feehan. He’s lived thousands of years, seen and done more things than any human could have. He also sacrificed many years of his own existence to save his brother. A conversation with someone like that would be amazing, and he’s totally hot.

Who is your real life hero?

That depends on your definition of “hero”. In writing, Jayne Ann Krentz. She has written in several different subgenres of romance under several different pen names, and has become a successful writer who creates fabulous, believable stories.

In everyday life, I would have to say my mother, Darlene Larson. She is a wonderful woman who has overcome adversity multiple times and seeks to help others as well. She was a teacher for displaced homemakers for many years and helped women find themselves and create a better life for themselves through education. She is now part of the Literary Council at Walla Walla Community Council, and helps immigrants learn to read and speak English.

I also play the violin, and for many years have idolized Andre Rieu, a great violinist and entertainer.

What are your favorite genres to read? Is it only romance?

I love to read Paranormal Romance and Regancy Romance. So my favorite would be romance. However, there are so many subgenres out there now, it’s hard to call it just romance. I love fairy tales as well, and YA books are fun, but I have to have my HEA.

What motivates your muse?

Music, long walks in nature, the ocean, art, love, just about anything. I try to surround myself with things that will inspire me.

Has she/he ever blocked you?

Not my muse, but sometimes real life intrudes. Things like my full-time job, bills, health, etc. But I think that may be the same for many writers.

How do you get out of a block?

I have to do something physically, like go for a long walk in the park next to my house, or get with a colleague and hash out plotlines. Plot parties are always fun.

Do travels you’ve taken play into your writing? Do you travel because of your writing?

Oh yes. I am widely traveled having visited over seventeen countries. I love to write about different locations, and have selected some of those for specific stories. The Dark Warrior series is set in Boston, MA where I have been several times.

I also went to Bend, OR and stayed at the Inn of the Seventh Mountains specifically for my book Crystal Clear, which is going to be released soon by Books To Go Now, in order to research the land and activities that the character Cindy Hawke experiences – white water rafting, going to the lava tubes, hiking, etc.

How do you balance your writing life with your non-writing life?

It’s all about time-management. Sometimes I find it difficult, because I work a full-time job, and write full-time as well. I also have a family and a hobby that takes a good chunk of my time. My husband recently complained that he only got to spend about five minutes with me in the last three days.

Balance is everything. If I don’t have a balance, I tend to drop the ball in one area or another. It’s a hard thing to do, but when everything is going smoothly it’s wonderful.

How happy are you with the covers you’ve been given?

Gosh! I love my covers. The people at BTGN have really tried to get the concepts I have given them incorporated into the covers. My favorite cover is probably the one for Bane, although the Dark Diamonds cover is a close second.

If you could give any advice to a writer aspiring to be published, what would that be?

Keep trying and keep writing. No matter what, no matter how many rejections you receive, you will eventually find that publisher who loves you and your work. Remember, it’s all about timing. You have to find the right publisher at the right time.

The flux of readers comes and goes, and certain publishers seek certain types of manuscripts. The Writer’s Market is a wonderful resource to seek out the right publisher for you.

Keep trying. I received many rejection letters before I found the publisher for my first manuscript. It’s hard, but it’s worth it. There is nothing like seeing your name on the cover of your own work.

Aside from your success in the publishing industry, what would you say that you have received the greatest sense of accomplishment from?

Achieving life goals is perhaps my greatest accomplishment. I believe in making long term goals and sticking to them. When I was younger, I wanted to be an actress and travel. I was part of an acting troupe for three years, and traveled extensively. I also wanted to write, and now I’m a writer. I wanted to live in a house and not an apartment. I now live in a beautiful home with my family. I have many long term goals, and I seek to fulfill each one.

I think perhaps it’s not the goal itself but the journey I take to get there that creates the biggest sense of accomplishment. When you can look back and say, “Yes, I did it.”

Where can we read more about you and your novels?

On my website, http://www.serenazane.com

Is there anything that I haven’t asked, which you would like to say?

Just that if you have a dream, it doesn’t matter if it’s writing or something else. Live it, it doesn’t matter where you are in life right now. You have a future, you just need to grab onto it with both hands and don’t let go.

It has been a pleasure getting to know you better today, Serena! Thank you for sharing your time with me on my BlogSpot.

Thank you, Janette. I enjoyed visiting. I always love hearing from readers as well. So, if any of you have questions or comments feel free to contact me. You can find me on Twitter @serenazane or on Facebook at facebook.com/serena.zane or you can email me at serena@serenazane.com

May you each find your dream.


Book Trailer & Buy Links for The Hunter Diaries Anthology:

Book Trailer embed code:

Buy Links:
Kindle Edition:http://www.amazon.com/The-Hunter-Diaries-Anthology-ebook/dp/B00BFXK77M/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1361920019&sr=8-14&keywords=Serena+Zane

Paperback: http://www.amazon.com/Hunter-Diaries-Anthology-Serena-Zane/dp/1482093944/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1361920019&sr=8-14


Romance through the mists of time and Love through the dimensions of reality

Seven Suspenseful Sentences for Suspenseful Seven Sentence Sunday!

One more memory took the air from her chest. She recalled its presence in one other place, but could not quite place it. Where did I see it? Her eyes popped open to the size of moon-sized orbs when the answer appeared in her mind.
A jolt of adrenalin stiffened her spine at the picture formed. His ring. It was in Viktor’s ring!

The above is from the next novel I plan to publish. It's a Vampire story.

Janette

Romance through the mists of time and Love through the dimensions of reality

Watch for the CONNECTIONS Trilogy, coming soon
from Books To Go Now!


Romance through the mists of time
Love through the dimensions of reality

A 3 NOVELLA SET!

My editor at Books To Go Now, tells me my story, CONNECTIONS, will be divided into 3 separate novellas! And it will be out in print!

Janette

Romance through the mists of time and Love through the dimensions of reality

Still Celebrating!

I’ve received my First book contract in the email! Now I KNOW it’s for REAL! Watch for CONNECTIONS, which will be out ASAP!


Janette


Romance through the mists of time and Love through the dimensions of reality

I emailed my acceptance of BTGN's offer today!

Janette


Romance through the mists of time and Love through the dimensions of reality

A CONTRACT OFFER!!

I have received a contract offer on my Romantic Fantasy from Books To Go Now!

Janette

Romance through the mists of time and Love through the dimensions of reality

another query sent!

I sent a query to Kensington books about CONNECTIONS, my Romantic Fantasy, tonight!

Janette

Romance through the mists of time and Love through the dimensions of reality

Seattle Lumberjacks Series Draft Day Special 99 cents for Down By Contact through Saturday at @amazon @Jami Davenport http://www.amazon.com/Down-Contact-Seattle-Lumberjacks-ebook/dp/B00C32UHB0

Seattle Lumberjacks Series Draft Day Special 99 cents for Forward Passes through Saturday at @amazon @Jami Davenport
http://www.amazon.com/Forward-Passes-Seattle-Lumberjacks-ebook/dp/B009MAUZ72
__._,_.___


Romance through the mists of time and Love through the dimensions of reality

MORE EXCITIING NEWS!

I'm having another Grandbaby!

Janette


Romance through the mists of time and Love through the dimensions of reality

EXCITING NEWS!

I've begun the query process on my recently completed series!

Janette

Romance through the mists of time and Love through the dimensions of reality

Shelia Roberts!

Oh My Gosh! Shelia Roberts shared her germs with me today! (No, we did NOT kiss or make-out.) She drank from my tea before I had a chance to tell her it was mine and not hers!
Long story short, I moved into her chair when she got up to speak at the Tacoma Round Table Readers monthly event, so I could hear her speech better in the noisy restaurant. She came back afterwards and grabbed the tea in front of me, which she understandably assumed to be hers. It wasn’t, I had pushed hers to the center of the table to wait safely for her return.
That’s a good omen for my writing career, Is It Not?

Janette – patiently waiting for her current book to be read and returned so she can MARKET IT!



Romance through the mists of time and Love through the dimensions of reality

The Next Big Thing!

Hi All!


Here’s an interview I just completed from my participation in The Next Big Thing! (TNBT is a blog-hop which has taken on a life of its own from its initial poster.)

What is your working title of your book?

The title of the story I just met my deadline on is CONNECTIONS! I hope to have it out for everyone’s enjoyment sometime this month. (Please bear in mind my Beta reader is sick.) I plan on going both digital and traditional with it. I will certainly have the news on its status out to you as soon as I learn it!

Where did the idea come from for the book?

I really don’t know where the idea for CONNECTIONS came from. As with most of my stories, it just came to me and I had to write it. There is only one of my other manuscripts, I think, which came from another source than my imagination. I plan to release it this year, also.

The novel I speak of is a fantasy/paranormal historical based on the Modoc indigenous tribe. I grew up where it takes place and it is a story of my heart.

What genre does your book fall under?

I have decided, after much feedback, it is a romantic fantasy. Works for me.

Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?

I have not decided that, yet.

What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?

Two soul-mates who are lost in the mists of time must search for each other throughout eternity and incarnations until they end the curse which separates them and achieve their intended Happily Ever After.

Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency?

It will probably be published through an online publisher.

How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?

How long it took me to write the first draft of CONNECTIONS requires a relative answer. You could say, since I completed the first draft at the end of 2012, it literally took me 20 years to reach THE END. In all actuality, though, I would estimate it took me a year to write.

During those two decades I first mentioned, since 1992, I raised a family, wrote several other stories, my marriage failed and I divorced, I attended Washington State University and earned my BA in Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences, I joined Olympia, WA, RWA and then I returned to my writing of this ms to its end. Was that a long enough sentence?

What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?

Those of the fantastic; Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings . . .

Who or what inspired you to write this book?

I suppose I have only my imagination to blame. Its origination began it so long ago, I really don’t remember anything in particular that might have inspired it.

What else about your book might pique the reader's interest?

The infinite possibilities for its characters in the love story behind its fantastic plot.

I’m tagging and thanking Kate Diamond for including me in this blog-hop!


Janette Harjo




Romance through the mists of time and Love through the dimensions of reality

It’s OFFICIAL! Olympia, Washington RWA’s January elections have been held and I am the chapter’s new Vice President!

Romance through the mists of time and Love through the dimensions of reality