Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a novelist, poet, and screenwriter from Connecticut. I’m the author of Personal Foul, a contemporary lesbian romance. My debut collection I.V. Poems was just released and is receiving strong reviews. I received a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies with honors from Wesleyan University, receiving the University’s coveted Rulewater Prize for my thesis project on women’s basketball. I’m a member of the Authors Guild, Romance Writers of America, Rainbow Romance Writers, Golden Crown Literary Society, and the Lesbian Authors Guild. I’m at work now on several feature film scripts and two new novels. I reside with my wife of 16 years in Connecticut and in Provincetown, MA along with our beloved pets.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My debut poetry collection entitled I.V. Poems was just released last week. I’ve been working on these poems for years. I’m always inspired by relationships and how we emotionally tie into the natural world around us. I spend a great deal of time in Provincetown, Massachusetts and so many of these poems reflect a strong connection to that place.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m not sure what constitutes unusual. I think every writer is different in their approach to their own creative work. I know that I need to spend time in nature to recharge my batteries. Once things are flowing, it’s not unusual for me to crank out 15,000 words in two days.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
There are too many to count. I love to read so many types of books it’s impossible to qualify anything. I try to read different styles and genres. I am simply drawn to great characters. Some of my favorites include: Isak Dinesen, J.R.R. Tolkein, Harper Lee, Sarah Waters, Edith Wharton, Judt Blume, Sue Monk Kidd just to name a few.
What are you working on now?
I just completed my second novel titled In the Direction of the Sun. It’s a contemporary lesbian romance novel. One of the main characters is an avid sailor and one hikes the Appalachian Trail. I’ve personally hiked over 800 miles on the Appalachian Trail so it’s very near and dear to me.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Just being active and getting out there as much as possible. I spend days at a time finding social media accounts and websites to connect on. I’m also active on Google+ and Yahoo groups.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write. It’s a skill that is improved with practice. I’ve spent years working on my own writing and reading other people’s work. I don’t write to be published, I write because I love it and I can’t imagine doing anything else.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I’m not a big horror fan, but Stephen King has some of the best advice on writing I’ve ever seen. He said: “Writing isn’t about making money, getting famous, getting dates, getting laid or making friends. Writing is magic, as much as the water of life as any other creative art. The water is free. So drink.”
What are you reading now?
I’m reading Circling the Sun by Paula McLain.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m not sure yet. I have a few ideas percolating but nothing has bubbled to the surface just yet!
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje
Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen
The Poetry of Emily Dickinson
Tipping the Velvet by Sarah Waters
Author Websites and Profiles
Lucy J. Madison Website
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