I am always excited when an author’s first book is released. Not only is it exciting for the author, but it also gives hope to the rest of us aspiring writers out here pecking away on our computers, waiting for the day we see our names in print. Tomorrow is the release day for RED HOT a new novel by Solara Gordon. I am pleased to have Ms. Gordon as a guest here in the Alcove to discuss writing, promotion, and her new release. Sunny “Solara” Gordon writes “romance with a spicy kick.”
1. When did you first begin writing?
I don’t remember the exact age I began writing. I’ve always been intrigued by the written word. There are memories of elaborate plots and story lines for grade school English class assignments that are the earliest times that come to mind.
2. Who are you inspirations?
Two people have solidly inspired and influenced me: Laurell K. Hamilton and Robert H. Rimmer. Robert Rimmer taught me about daring to wonder and the love of putting pen and paper together to brings those ideas to life. His books and words taught me a lot. Laurell K. Hamilton’s own journey to being published and her books added fuel to the fire. Others such as Kate Douglas, Jade Lee, and other author friends add their unique spark.
3. What are your writing habits?
I try to write daily even if it is no more than a paragraph or two. Because I work a full time job, besides writing, I use my lunch break to write in long hand so I keep the story going. I transcribe the pages into the manuscript and if I add to them, I print those pages off to keep up with where I am at in the story.
4. Are you a pantster or a plotter?
I am a pantster writer. I’ve learned to have an idea where the story is going, beginning—middle—end; otherwise, I can end up off track. I do some plotting and set up high points in the story to keep on course.
5. Who are your favorite authors and what are you reading now?
I’ve mentioned a few of them in who inspired me. I’m in between books right now. I recently finished Laurell K’s Bloody Bones.
6. What are your goals as a writer?
To provide my readers an enjoyable story and along the way introduce (maybe inspire) a few of them to the wonderful world of daring to wonder and writing those thoughts and ideas down.
7. If you had one wish for your writing career what would it be?
To provide my readers with an enjoyable story and maybe along the way introduce them to the world of wondering and bringing those thoughts to life.
8. What advice would you give other aspiring writers?
Keep on trying. You’ll get that call one day. Don’t give up. Every time you submit, realize it is a job interview. Not everyone is going to love what you write nor is everyone going to hate it. It’s a subjective business.
9. Congratulation on your new book RED HOT by www.SirenPublishing.com . How do you feel right now?
Elated and in awe in many ways. Each sale represents a goal/achievement you’ve worked hard to reach.
10. Do you have an agent?
Not at this time. I’m looking for representation.
11. Living in the Washington D.C area, does any of your writing mix romance and politic intrigue?
No, political intrigue is better left for the politicians. I’m sure bits and pieces do influence my world building for my paranormal stories.
12. You work in the finance industry by day to “pay the bills” while you pen erotic tales. Do you think most aspiring authors have an unrealistic view of the writing life? ( multi-book deals and million dollar contracts)
At first many think that once you sell the first book, other sales will come easily. For some this is true and for others it’s not. It depends on where each wants to go with their career. Writing is work and takes time and dedication to see it through.
13. Have you ever won any awards for your writing? If so please elaborate.
No awards at this time.
14. Where can someone purchase your books?
Red Hot is available through my publisher’s website.
15. How do you promote your books? Do you have a platform which many writers feel is necessary due to the economy and the fact that many publishing houses have put the burden of promoting books onto the shoulders and pockets of the authors?
Exposure is critical in this industry. Regardless of the size of the publisher, every author is also responsible for doing some PR work on her own as well. I have my blog/website and list serves I post to along with word of mouth by friends and growing fans a like.
16. As a member of the RWA Fantasy, Futuristic and Paranormal chapter, do you believe it is important for a writer to belong to one of these genre specific associations to achieve success in the writing arena?
Networking is important as well as having support from co-workers and friends with in the industry. The Fantasy, Futuristic and Paranormal chapter present me opportunities to run my work and ideas by others who read and/or write in the same area. RWA Membership doesn’t guarantee success.
17. Please tell our readers about your new release “RED HOT”.
What’s a woman to do when the one fireman she can’t resist is camped out in the bed upstairs? Resist temptation or start a fire?
Bunny’s sworn off firemen, until she meets Brent. Turning forty, plus a younger man’s kiss, start a fire she’s thinking twice about putting out. Brent wishes his zealous male ego would calm down, so he could understand why Bunny affects him like she does. Will their first spark lead to a second?
18. What are you working on now?
Three different projects are underway. One is an adult version of a childhood fairy tale where the words ménage and kink (BDSM) play a large role. The second is an erotica paranormal novella. The third is a four book urban fantasy series under my other pen name Soleh Garben.
http://solaragordon.wordpress.com
http://www.bookstrand.com/red-hot
Lexi Flint's Author Alcove 