If you want a chance to win a copy of her book Courting Miss Adelaide, please leave a comment with your email or email me at margaretdaley@gmail.com. The drawing ends Sunday night.
Janet Dean’s interview:
1.What made you start writing?
At twelve, I wrote and illustrated little romances. I’m not sure what motivated me except that I believe God gives each of us talents and drives. The desire to tell stories is part of who I am.
2.How long have you been writing? When did you sell your first book?
I’ve written for publication since 1997 when I joined Romance Writers of America. Melissa Endlich bought Courting Miss Adelaide for Steeple Hill Love Inspired Historical on June 29, 2006. LIH launched in February so it’s been a long wait.
3.How do you handle rejections?
My first contest entry made it clear I had a great deal to learn before my work was saleable so I revamped my expectations…until my manuscripts began winning contests. In the fall of 2005, I came close to quitting after my manuscript was a Golden Heart finalist. I’d expected to garner an agent or sale or both, but got neither. Within a matter of weeks, I tumbled from the mountain top to the valley. If I’d quit, I would’ve missed THE CALL nine months later. Rejection is part of a writer’s life and doesn’t stop with publication. It helps to remember countless writers before me experienced rejection and eventually met with success. Chocolate and understanding family and friends help, too. ☺
4.Why do you write?
Once I discovered inspirational fiction, I knew I was meant to write faith-based stories. I hope my books honor God, entertain and strengthen my readers’ walk.
5.What would you be doing with your free time if you weren’t writing?
Probably I’d draw, paint and knit—all creative outlets. I’d volunteer more. I’d also get serious about my pathetic golf game.
6.What are you working on right now?
I’m working on a new proposal and doing all I can to promote Courting Miss Adelaide, which released last week.
7.Do you put yourself into your books/characters?
Who I am comes out in my style/ voice. My characters possess my values and faith or they rebel against them. Though, my heroes and heroines are stronger and more confrontational than I. And far more interesting. ☺
8.Tell us about the book you have out right now.
Courting Miss Adelaide:
The “orphan train” seemed like small-town spinster Adelaide Crum’s last chance to know the simple joys of family life. So many lost children, every one of them dreaming only of a caring home—the home she longed to offer. And yet the narrow-minded town elders refused to entrust even the most desperate child to a woman alone….
Newspaperman Charles Graves believed his heart was closed forever, but he swore to stand by this lovely, lonely woman who was fighting for the right to take some motherless child into her heart. And her gentle soul and unwavering faith made him wonder if even he could overcome the bitter lessons of the past, and somehow find the courage to love….
9.Do you have any advice for other writers?
I’d advice those who haven’t yet sold to hone your craft, write more/polish less and never give up. It’s wise to purchase your domain name. If you can manage the time and expense, look into a blog and Web site.
10.How important is faith in your books?
Faith is important in my life so it’s natural for me to give some characters strong faith while others struggle or even rebel against God. However, I write to entertain and keep readers turning pages.
11. What themes do you like to write about?
Forgiveness and unconditional love are two recurring themes.
12. What is your favorite book you’ve written and why?
I’d have to say Courting Miss Adelaide. Not that I love the story more than the rest, but this book gave me a long list of firsts I’ll always cherish: My first Golden Heart final, first sale, first cover, first review, first reader letter, first book signing.
13. What is your writing schedule like?
I juggle my schedule depending on what’s going on in my life. Btu my ideal day starts with coffee, devotions, e-mail, a visit to www.Seekerville.blogspot.com, my group blog. On a good day, I post at my blog, Cup of Faith www.janetdean.blogspot.com. I like to be dressed and sitting at my desk by ten, then write until four with a break for lunch. I try to get to Curves three times a week from 4-5:00. Evenings I take a walk with my husband. If I’m on deadline, I pretty much spend my day and evening at the computer.
Thanks, Margaret, for having me on your blog today. I enjoyed it!
Blessings, Janet
