Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
A traditionally published author of nonfiction (“Long Island Wine Country: Award-Winning Vineyards of the North Fork and the Hamptons”), I’ve turned to my true passion, writing romantic thrillers. My debut novel, “Shattered Blue,” is receiving rave reviews from book bloggers and Amazon readers, which is very gratifying to me. I especially love what InD’Tale Magazine said about “Shattered Blue” in its May 2013 issue: “This is quite the impressive and entertaining debut novel! The book contains a good solid plot line, an entertaining and believable story, and a realistic romance. There were a couple of nice little twists to the story to keep the reader on their toes.”
I live with my husband on the North Fork Long Island, in a modest cottage on one of the region’s many tidal creeks. I’m hard at work on my next romantic thriller, the first in a planned series.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Shattered Blue” was inspired partly by the setting, the mountains of Southwest New Mexico. My husband and I spent four months there a few years ago, on a crazy ranch that closely resembles heroine Shane MacKinnon’s hideaway.
In “Shattered Blue” (the title refers to the cobalt-blue bottles hanging everywhere and a legend that they protect from evil spirits) I wanted to explore how a young woman who was badly damaged in childhood begins to heal when a good man walks into her life. This theme is woven into a very intense suspense story, with Shane being stalked by the very man who traumatized her youth. I’ve always loved romantic suspense, whether in book or movie form, and I wanted to create an exciting thrill ride for my readers.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I wouldn’t call them unusual. When I’m writing, I get into the “zone” and it’s very hard to come out of that. Other times, it’s hard to get into it! I write in spurts, sometimes 3,000 words a day, sometimes much less, but I’m always working on my current story in my head. Riding in the car, in the shower, eating, whatever: It’s always on my mind.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love romantic suspense titles by Nora Roberts, Sandra Brown, Lisa Jackson and others. A much older influence is Phyllis A. Whitney, who wrote wonderful romantic suspense novels in the gothic style.
What are you working on now?
I’m making notes for a series of romantic thrillers featuring four siblings, who get into romantic and investigative entanglements in successive books. Not going to give away too much at this early stage, but I’m really excited about it. Stay tuned!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still learning how to do that, so it’s an ongoing process. I have a blog and I’m on Facebook, LinkedIn, Goodreads and Twitter. I think it all adds up over time.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
1. Never, never, never give up!
2. Read, read, read!
3. Write, write, write!
4. Send to beta readers with a pointed questionnaire and ask for brutal honesty. And then pay attention, especially to the same comments from more than one reader.
5. Rewrite, rewrite, rewrite!
6. Never let a manuscript go until it’s the very best you can make it, in content and format.
7. Never, never, never give up! (Yep, I know I repeated that one; it’s worth repeating!)
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write what you love! (Not what you know, because you can learn anything you need to know.)
What are you reading now?
Nora Roberts’ “The Witness”
What’s next for you as a writer?
See “What are you working on now,” above.
What is your favorite book of all time?
What else? “To Kill a Mockingbird.” THE great American novel.
Author Websites and Profiles
Jane Taylor Starwood Website
Jane Taylor Starwood Amazon Profile
Jane Taylor Starwood’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account