Jennifer McKenzie

[Michelle]

Jennifer McKenzie
Official Site (http://www.jennifermckenzie.com/) | MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/jennifermck)

Jenmck (http://bookclubforum.co.uk/forum/member.php?u=245) is one of our members, and she writes under two names, Jennifer McKenzie and Jennifer Leeland. You can read more on her official site.

Jen will chatting to us over the coming month, about writing, getting published, and her different styles of writing. ;)

[Michelle]

Welcome Jen.. perhaps you could start by telling us a little about your books, and your two names? :)

[Inver]

What got you interested in writing or has it been something you always intended/wanted to do?

[Kell]

Hi Jen!

I have a three-part question for you:

1.) How do you classify your books (genre-wise)?
2.) Do book shops/sellers tend to classify them the same way, or do they classify them differently?
3.) Do you think this in any way affects the sale of your books / the audience they reach?

[jenmck]

First, let me say what a privilege it is to be considered. Especially following Stuart McBride (who was awesome).

I've always loved to write and did it for fun most of my life. Then, in 2002 my Dad passed away with a completed manuscript that no one ever saw. He never thought it was good enough.
I realized that I'd always talked about being an author "someday" but did the same thing my Dad did. I hid my writing away and didn't let anyone see it.

I was determined to change that. My first manuscript was really about the loss of my Dad and the love we both had of books. When it was done I subbed it to Harlequin. And WALA! My first rejection.

From there, I discovered Romance Divas (http://romancedivas.com)and started writing short stories for Electronic Publishers.
My pen name, Jennifer Leeland, came about because I loved Erotic Romance and thought I'd try my hand at it. I enjoyed it and The Wild Rose Press (http://www.thewildrosepress.com/) took a chance on me.

I write a little of everything, but I love romantic suspense. "Heart Of The Storm" came out with Whiskey Creek Press/Torrid (http://www.whiskeycreekpress.com/torrid/) which is my first romantic suspense title to be contracted.

I've got two sequels in the works for "Heart Of The Storm" and two contracted erotic romances being released soon.

I've been VERY lucky. And I love to write. That helps too. :lol:

Thank you so very much for inviting me. I'll get to the questions now.

[jenmck]

What got you interested in writing or has it been something you always intended/wanted to do?

Weeeelll, you know how you always hear about those people who were writing stuff when they were ten?
Not me.
I was a sporadic writer and only for my own pleasure for most of my life. I journaled, I wrote articles for newsletters and things like that. But I didn't take my writing seriously.
I'm a bibliophile, however. I love to read. The idea of writing something that would give another reader enjoyment was persistent. So, I started to WORK at my writing.
It's amazing how much better my writing has gotten in the last two years.

[jenmck]

Hi Jen!

I have a three-part question for you:

1.) How do you classify your books (genre-wise)?
2.) Do book shops/sellers tend to classify them the same way, or do they classify them differently?
3.) Do you think this in any way affects the sale of your books / the audience they reach?


Great questions. I have a tough time classifying my books. I'm a romance writer. I am classified as romance first. It's the sub genres that get tricky.
For example, "Singled Out" was a romance I wrote for my best friend when we were joking around about why she was forty-three and still single. We decided her Guardian Angel must be a drunk. Thomas, the recovering alcoholic Guardian Angel was born and "Singled Out" began The Divine Intervention series.
It's classified as romantic comedy. I guess it's funny, but I hadn't thought of it in that genre. Its sequel "Double Trouble" is considered paranormal. Mmmm.
Honestly, I don't know WHAT affects sales of books. The Divine Intervention series sold itself. I don't think the genre really made a difference.
I do notice that suspense titles sell well second only to erotic romance.

[Inver]

How did you stumble upon 'The Book Club Forum'?
Do reviews etc on here help at all with your writing?

[jenmck]

How did you stumble upon 'The Book Club Forum'?
Do reviews etc on here help at all with your writing?


Cinthia Hamner was on Romance Divas and said this was a great place. I signed up and then totally forgot about it. Then, in September, Michelle sent me a "Happy Birthday" from the Book Forum.
I was at a place where I was reading other things besides romance and I wanted to hang out with people who were as eclectic as I am about my book preferences. I've been a daily visitor ever since. The only problem I have is that you all have read SO much more than I have. So, I tend to be quiet on most threads, but I LOVE the opinions on different books.

Reviews here help me to find books to read. And reading always helps my writing.

[Inver]

How do you plan your day when you are writing? Any sort of time you find better and where do you write, or are you one for jotting down notes, whenever?

[jenmck]

How do you plan your day when you are writing? Any sort of time you find better and where do you write, or are you one for jotting down notes, whenever?

Mmmm good questions.
I have days set aside for writing (usually in the morning when the kids are at school). I try to keep focused on writing and not get distracted. Which is VERY difficult. I LOVE to visit blogs and I find I have to leave my internet closed while I write.
I need to be alone when I write. (It might be because I'm writing sex scenes on occasion. That's difficult with Thomas The Tank Engine or Scooby Doo in the background). I don't always need quiet and I often have music on.
I see all my stories in scenes, which means I don't really "take notes". A really good scene will stick with me until I'm able to write it down.
I've handwritten entire short stories when I was away from my computer however.
I think my biggest flaw is being too distracted by "new and shiny" stories or blogs or the phone or the fly on the wall......

[Louiseog]

(It might be because I'm writing sex scenes on occasion. That's difficult with Thomas The Tank Engine or Scooby Doo in the background).
And why might that be... welcome to my world :lol::lol::lol:

[jenmck]

(It might be because I'm writing sex scenes on occasion. That's difficult with Thomas The Tank Engine or Scooby Doo in the background).

And why might that be... welcome to my world :lol::lol::lol:

Um, because my character's motivation all comes out with the need to be "Really reliable and Really Useful" with a craving for Scooby snacks.
Me=distracted

[jenmck]

Okay, since no one is asking ME questions I want to ask one of YOU.

This question has a story behind it.
My sister read my book on the plane as she flew out from Wisconsin to California. Now, she was embarrassed by the "hot" cover for the book.
My question is this. Does the cover influence you to buy or not to buy?
In other words--Crappy cover=No way I'm buying THAT.
Fab cover=I don't have the money but I NEED that book.

[Kell]

My question is this. Does the cover influence you to buy or not to buy?
In other words--Crappy cover=No way I'm buying THAT.
Fab cover=I don't have the money but I NEED that book.
I don't get embarrassed over book covers or titles. I quite happily sat at work reading The SexualLife of Catherine M by Catherine Millet at work, which got me some funny looks, but I didn't care a jot!

If it's a book I want to read, I don't care what the cover looks like -Ii'll get it anyway. I'll admit, I'm occasionally attracted to books by authors I don't know because they have a gorgeous cover, but then i read the blurb on the back to see if it's something I would enjoy. If it is, I'll get it, if not, it goes back on the shelf.

I have a question for you off the back of that one, Jen:

Do you get much leeway over what your covers look like, or do the publishers decide that? Or do they give you perhaps a choice of covers and you get final say?

[Michelle]

Hmm.. covers. If it's a book that's been recommended, then I'm not bothered by the cover. However, if I'm browsing, I will admit that the cover does make alot of difference. So, it won't stop me buying what I already want, but may stop me buying something new.

Yep, I can be quite shallow! :blush:

[Icecream]

Hi Jen, I have just looked at your site and first of all motivated by your question i would like to say that the covers of your books look very nice and seem to confirm the thoughts I had from reading the synopses, but also add more to those thoughts.

What I would like to ask you is where did the inspiration for the Divine Intervention series come from, specifically thinking about the guardian angel theme?

[Inver]

Hmm.. covers. If it's a book that's been recommended, then I'm not bothered by the cover. However, if I'm browsing, I will admit that the cover does make alot of difference. So, it won't stop me buying what I already want, but may stop me buying something new.

Yep, I can be quite shallow! :blush:

With Michell on this one, but not quite sure why I pick the books I do sometimes. If it is an author I don't know and I like the cover I will pick it up then read the back. If it doesn't seem like my kinda thing put it back. If it is an author I know the cover doesn't affect my choice because I will usually by the book anyway.

[jenmck]

I don't get embarrassed over book covers or titles. I quite happily sat at work reading The SexualLife of Catherine M by Catherine Millet at work, which got me some funny looks, but I didn't care a jot!

If it's a book I want to read, I don't care what the cover looks like -Ii'll get it anyway. I'll admit, I'm occasionally attracted to books by authors I don't know because they have a gorgeous cover, but then i read the blurb on the back to see if it's something I would enjoy. If it is, I'll get it, if not, it goes back on the shelf.

I have a question for you off the back of that one, Jen:

Do you get much leeway over what your covers look like, or do the publishers decide that? Or do they give you perhaps a choice of covers and you get final say?

That's exactly how I am, Kell. I read books I like and that's that. To answer your question, I'm in epublishing and small press print. So far, the publishers have been VERY accommodating and I've had significant input. Usually, I fill out a cover art form and I have the opportunity to let the artist know exactly what I'd like. Sometimes (as in the case of "Heart Of The Storm") they have to go with a certain "style" of cover. Torrid is the erotic romance section of Whiskey Creek, so "hot and sexy" is necessary. In that, I don't have much choice.
They send me a cover and I can make suggestions.
I've heard in bigger publishing houses there is less author input on covers.


Hmm.. covers. If it's a book that's been recommended, then I'm not bothered by the cover. However, if I'm browsing, I will admit that the cover does make alot of difference. So, it won't stop me buying what I already want, but may stop me buying something new.

Yep, I can be quite shallow! :blush:

I don't know if that's shallow. Publishers need to know if the cover art stops customer purchases. For example, Cobblestone Press discontinued a line that had a lot of fabulous stories but the covers killed the sales. It can really make a huge difference.

Hi Jen, I have just looked at your site and first of all motivated by your question i would like to say that the covers of your books look very nice and seem to confirm the thoughts I had from reading the synopses, but also add more to those thoughts.

What I would like to ask you is where did the inspiration for the Divine Intervention series come from, specifically thinking about the guardian angel theme?

My best friend is my rock and we've been through a lot together. She had just gotten out of ANOTHER nasty relationship and, at forty-three, wondered why she was still single.
Then, there was "the Dans". Yep, three of them. Three men named Dan who hit on her, promised to call, or take her out and didn't. That was the last straw.
We decided her Guardian Angel must be drunk. Thomas was created in that conversation. He's a Guardian Angel with a drinking problem who, when he gets sober, must "fix" the messes he's made through neglect.
Of course, I believe we are all guided by a Power Greater Than Ourselves, but the books are not religious or preachy.

With Michell on this one, but not quite sure why I pick the books I do sometimes. If it is an author I don't know and I like the cover I will pick it up then read the back. If it doesn't seem like my kinda thing put it back. If it is an author I know the cover doesn't affect my choice because I will usually by the book anyway.

I agree.

[Gyre]

Hi Jen

How are you? I'm Gyre, it is lovely to meet you. :D

My question is, where do you get your ideas from? and do you ever get stuck with a particular part of your books?

:D

[Blossom]

Hi

I just wanted to ask you if you encountered any difficulties when writing erotic romance? You mentioned having kids' tv in the background wasn't conducive to writing certain scenes...

Also what drew you to the erotic romance genre?

I must admit that I decided against a detailed sex scene in my book - not because I was embarrassed about writing it - but because I didn't like the idea of my mam reading it!

Kerri

[jenmck]

Hi Jen

How are you? I'm Gyre, it is lovely to meet you. :D

My question is, where do you get your ideas from? and do you ever get stuck with a particular part of your books?

:D

*Waves* Hi Gyre! I'm so glad to be here.

I think if I told you where my ideas came from, they'd sent the men in the white coats for me. :smile2: Mostly, my ideas come in scenes with a character that talks to me. For example, I had one character who insisted on dog sledding. In Alaska in January. I thought he was crazy. Come to find out he was right on. :10_confused: It was a little freaky to google dog sledding and discover that January is the best month to dog sled in Alaska.
Some ideas, like "Heart Of The Storm", begin with a true story. My husband was a drag fisherman for ten years and heard a story about a boat and it's five man crew that was "lost at sea". Five years later, one of those missing crew men was arrested for murder in Arizona. That premise started the story for "Heart Of The Storm".

And yes, I do get stuck. A lot. Mostly, in the middle of it. It's usually because the story has gone "wrong" somewhere. It's kind of like knitting. If you "drop a stitch" somewhere, it can really mess up the whole thing. For me, it's usually a plot hole.

[jenmck]

Hi

I just wanted to ask you if you encountered any difficulties when writing erotic romance? You mentioned having kids' tv in the background wasn't conducive to writing certain scenes...

Also what drew you to the erotic romance genre?

I must admit that I decided against a detailed sex scene in my book - not because I was embarrassed about writing it - but because I didn't like the idea of my mam reading it!

Kerri

Oh I can relate to this so much.
Yes, I had difficulties writing with the kids around. I usually don't have to. But I do edit my erotic scenes with my kids home and it's not always comfortable. Luckily, neither of my kids can read yet, so I don't have the "What's that word, Mama" happening yet. :lol:
And about detailed sex scenes. My mom read Nora Roberts and she still didn't like the sex scenes in "Heart Of The Storm". But she loved the rest of it.:D
I kept my Jennifer Leeland pen name completely separate for a year, but my mom doesn't go looking for me online. She knows I write "smut".
For me, the sex scenes have to be what the characters would do. I don't write erotic romance to "sell". Most of the time, the way the character is determines the level of heat.
And I don't believe in gratuitous sex. For me, a sex scene is about connecting two people in a meaningful way. If it's just sex, it won't have any impact for the reader or for me.
Does that make sense?

[Michelle]

And I don't believe in gratuitous sex. For me, a sex scene is about connecting two people in a meaningful way. If it's just sex, it won't have any impact for the reader or for me.
Does that make sense?

Oh, absolutely! I was sent a book once, which looked like it might be a really good story. However, the sex scenes were VERY gratuitous - they didn't go in the story, but felt like they'd just been added on. (If that makes sense?) It was bad enough to make me put the book down.

And yet, there's probably a big market for it!

[jenmck]

Oh, absolutely! I was sent a book once, which looked like it might be a really good story. However, the sex scenes were VERY gratuitous - they didn't go in the story, but felt like they'd just been added on. (If that makes sense?) It was bad enough to make me put the book down.

And yet, there's probably a big market for it!

I actually had a book that was VERY dirty rejected for not being "hot enough". They commented that they wanted me to "push the envelope" and with that story I'd gone as far as I was willing to go.
There is pressure out there to make stories "hotter".
I try and keep a balance. I don't like closed door sex or too many euphemisms (crashing waves anyone?) so I've been lucky in my publishing experiences.

[Gyre]

Thanks for your reply Jen, I will think of some more questions x

[Kell]

I must admit that I decided against a detailed sex scene in my book - not because I was embarrassed about writing it - but because I didn't like the idea of my mam reading it!

And about detailed sex scenes. My mom read Nora Roberts and she still didn't like the sex scenes in "Heart Of The Storm". But she loved the rest of it... She knows I write "smut".

I don't like closed door sex or too many euphemisms (crashing waves anyone?) so I've been lucky in my publishing experiences.
Another multi-part question based on the three quotes above:

1. Do you get embarrassed at the thought of family and friends reading your "steamier" scenes and wondering what goes on in your head?

2. Have your family and friends been more or less supportive than you thought they would when they realised you were writing "smut"?

3. How do you go about finding euphemisms that aren't cringe-worthy? (I've read some humdingers in my time that just made me guffaw over how bad they were!)

[jenmck]

Another multi-part question based on the three quotes above:

1. Do you get embarrassed at the thought of family and friends reading your "steamier" scenes and wondering what goes on in your head?

2. Have your family and friends been more or less supportive than you thought they would when they realised you were writing "smut"?

3. How do you go about finding euphemisms that aren't cringe-worthy? (I've read some humdingers in my time that just made me guffaw over how bad they were!)

1. Yes, I do get embarrassed. When my husband reads my stuff, it's a little nerve wracking. I usually squirm in my chair. And putting a book out is always sharing a little more of myself. Sometimes that's difficult because it can be shredded, rejected and criticized.

2. My husband and my best friend have been my biggest fans. My Mom and sisters have been happy I'm writing but it's weird for them to read a "romance" written by someone they know. It's easier to read love scenes written by a stranger. :lol:

3. I joke about the "crashing waves" euphemism, but I've used the "waves" one on occasion. ;) Using any "metaphor" for sex is ALWAYS risky. But if you get too "graphic" that's also a problem.
*shrugs* I figure my books have a least one or two snorts for somebody. I do avoid the "heaving bosoms" and gasping heroines. I think the word that gave me the worst problem was in Christine Feehan's book "Conspiracy Games" she used the word "cream" over and over and over again. ICK. :lol:
I think the word "member" isn't one I like much. But the truth is, I run out of ways to say things. The trick is to stay within the mood of the story. If I'm in a historical and start using graphic description, the reader is pulled right out of the story. Or if I'm writing a contemporary and start getting restrained and flowery with my description of sex, again, pulls the reader out of the story.

Does that make sense?

[Michelle]

There is pressure out there to make stories "hotter".

That surprises me a little, actually. Is it that readers seem to generally want sex in their romance books.. or that the readers who like erotic want it hotter?

[Kell]

Does that make sense?
It all makes perfect sense. Thank you. :)

Another quick one (you'll get sick of me, you know!). Have you ever considered writing in any other genres? If so, which do you think you'd go for and why?

[jenmck]

That surprises me a little, actually. Is it that readers seem to generally want sex in their romance books.. or that the readers who like erotic want it hotter?

It's a money decision. Believe it or not, erotic romance (which is difficult to define) sells VERY well. Publishers will go by sales.
In Electronic books, erotic romance makes up a huge chunk of book sales.
Even Harlequin Romances has begun a "Spice" line to fill the customer request for more explicit sex in romances.
Honestly, I think it's possible to write a well written romance with NO sex scenes. Some of my favorite romances are closed door.
Hallmark did an adaptation of "Love Comes Softly", a fabulous romance. Guess what? No sex. Great story.
I think it's a mistake to cater to one part of the romance reading population. If a writer is a "sweet" writer, there's a market out there, no matter WHAT the numbers say.

[SteffieB]

Have you ever considered writing in any other genres? If so, which do you think you'd go for and why? (I want to know this too:))


And, I was just thinking about this the other day when I saw a new book by the author who wrote a book set in Wisconsin (hey! does your sister live there? my home turf!). Her new one is set in California, and I wondered if authors research their settings or write what they know? Have you been to Alaska?

I like the format of your stuff on line!

:D

[jenmck]

It all makes perfect sense. Thank you. :)

Another quick one (you'll get sick of me, you know!). Have you ever considered writing in any other genres? If so, which do you think you'd go for and why?

Sorry I missed this Kell.
I've written Contemporary, Sci Fi, a fantasy (currently uncontracted) romantic suspense and paranormal.
That pretty much leaves historical (nope) and chick lit (I don't think so).
So, no not really


(I want to know this too:))


And, I was just thinking about this the other day when I saw a new book by the author who wrote a book set in Wisconsin (hey! does your sister live there? my home turf!). Her new one is set in California, and I wondered if authors research their settings or write what they know? Have you been to Alaska?

I like the format of your stuff on line!

:D

(My sister lives in Madison, WI.)
I do some research online, but a lot of the information I had for Alaska was from a fisherman I knew that was on a trawler out there. I've never been to Alaska which I HATE to admit.:blush: I actually had a Unalaska resident (a small town in Alaska) buy my book and said he'd "make sure I got it right":thud:
I told him I didn't. :lol:
I hope that answers your question.

[supergran71]

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer ? At school or some other time? Were you good at essay writing at school? Who encouraged you,inspired you to take the plunge into writing?

Sorry so many questions at once!!:mrgreen:

[jenmck]

When did you first know you wanted to be a writer ? At school or some other time? Were you good at essay writing at school? Who encouraged you,inspired you to take the plunge into writing?

Sorry so many questions at once!!:mrgreen:

Writing always seemed to be a dream but I never thought I'd be able to do it. I'd been told by my teachers that I had talent, but I was too "undisciplined" to learn the "rules" of grammar and language. I still struggle with the correct way to structure sentences and dialogue.

My husband was the one who encouraged me to write my first manuscript. I may have continued to just talk about "someday" if he hadn't encouraged me.

Now, I enjoy it so much that I can't imagine NOT doing it.:D

[Michelle]

Reading your blog entry (http://jenniferleeland.wordpress.com/2007/11/06/a-book-review-and-a-rant/), and the evolving discussion, I was wondering what your own experiences with ebooks were. How have sales been, compared to 'paper books', and what attitudes have you noticed about them?

[jenmck]

Reading your blog entry (http://jenniferleeland.wordpress.com/2007/11/06/a-book-review-and-a-rant/), and the evolving discussion, I was wondering what your own experiences with ebooks were. How have sales been, compared to 'paper books', and what attitudes have you noticed about them?

Oh this is a great question! And obviously one I've been thinking about.

When I first started to write and submit my work, I didn't know what an electronic book was. Clueless, I bought my very first ebook because the author was a Diva and the book sounded to interesting to pass up. Besides, the price was so much lower! I've never looked back. I love ebooks for their price and lack of bookcase usage. :lol:
I wasn't prepared for the reaction from my friends and family.
Because I'd been involved in online activities, I made the assumption that everyone else knew about ebooks too. (Forgetting my own ignorance in the beginning. :roll:)
Sales in electronic books are dependent on WHERE they're published. Being listed on Fictionwise is a huge boost for sales.
But starting out is tough when distribution is limited. I've said that networking is like dieting--you don't notice the results right away, but eventually it pays off.
"Heart Of The Storm" is my first print book (not including an anthology with two other authors) and I won't know how much "better" those sales are until January.
I do know that people who wouldn't buy my ebooks probably bought my print book, even thought "Heart Of The Storm" was significantly more expensive in that form.
My opinion on this is evolving.
Electronic books are going to be the "new thing", but they won't replace paper books. For one thing, ebook publishers are able to offer more offbeat subject matter-take bigger risks on new authors. Big publishers have to "play it safe" to make their money back because of the overhead and expenses.
Epublishers will discover the new brilliant authors.
I'm hoping for the day when epublishing is able to continue to offer quality to its readers.
The problem is (and I know I'm going on and on) that fly by night epublishers are giving the industry as a whole a bad reputation. But quality trumps and places like Samhain publishing, Ellora's Cave and Liquid Silver Books will continue to offer great stuff.
I know there is a bias. "I want to hold a book in my hand". True.
But there are books I often put back on the shelf because it's too pricey. New authors don't stand a chance in that environment.
But in epublishing, for less than $5, I can read a new author and not have broken my wallet. That way, if I hate it, I'm not out $10 (or even $15 for some books these days)

Whew. Apparently, I had a lot to say. :lol:

[Michelle]

Whew. Apparently, I had a lot to say. :lol: :smile2:

Aside from all the other issues, I would like to point out that one of my problems with ebooks is actually reading them on the screen. I already spend FAR too much looking at my computer monitor, and I'm very prone to headaches, so have to be careful.

Anyway.. I'd be interested to know what others here think of this.. whether they like ebooks because they're cheaper, reject them for whatever reason.. or anything else. :)

Jen, did you feel any different when you first had a book in print?

[jenmck]

:smile2:

Aside from all the other issues, I would like to point out that one of my problems with ebooks is actually reading them on the screen. I already spend FAR too much looking at my computer monitor, and I'm very prone to headaches, so have to be careful.
:)

Jen, did you feel any different when you first had a book in print?

You sure know how to pin me down. ;) Yes, I'll admit I did.:blush: I took pictures of holding it in my hand. I don't feel like I've "arrived" but it certainly felt like a step forward. Sometimes, I get conflicted about epublishing. I love it and I buy a lot of ebooks, but I also see the value (not to mention love the new book smell) of print books. Let's just say I'm not turning in my paperback Ngaio Marsh books in for it's ebook equivalent. :D

And Michelle, you are not alone in that problem. I'm hoping they'll come up with better ebook readers than they have now. There are some that are portable, but the screens aren't very good yet. I think this technology will grow.

[jenmck]

I have a question for you readers out there.

I write Erotic Romance under one name (Jennifer Leeland) and a little "sweeter" under Jennifer McKenzie.

In other words, Jennifer McKenzie is stuff my mom can read.:lol:
Jennifer Leeland? No way!!!!

I'm curious to know does it make a difference when you find out an author you love (say Nora Roberts or Stephen King) writes something "different" (Example: Nora Roberts as J.D. Robb, Amanda Quick is Jane Anne Krantz).
And does it make a difference if they write something you DON'T like?
I love Amanda Quick (historical romance) but not her contemporary romance. I love Julie Garwood historicals but not her romantic suspense.
I ADORE Elizabeth Peters but I wasn't too thrilled with Barbara Michaels.

What's your take on that?

[Kell]

Just about all my favourite authors have written something I didn't like as much (e.g. Pratchett - I don't like the 1st two Discworld novels). I also haven't tended to enjoy Richard Bachman books as much as I like Stephen King novels, but I don't hate them or anything like that.

I think alternate pen names can be very useful for experimentation, as I think it must be easy for writers to get pigeon-holed after a while (for example, King gets labelled a horror writer, when really he's not at all!). It doesn't put me off at all to find a writer I enjoy has an "alter ego".

[Michelle]

Did you plan on the sequels for Heart of the Storm from the beginning.. or did they come about afterwards?

[jenmck]

Did you plan on the sequels for Heart of the Storm from the beginning.. or did they come about afterwards?


Good question.
I did, actually. Once I realized how the plot was going to turn in "Heart Of The Storm", I knew I was writing a sequel for one of the characters.
I love sequels. :D

[Kell]

Which of your books have you most enjoyed writing, and why?

[wiccibat]

Hi Jen,
after a similar discussion with my son, I wondered whether you had a favourite character, if so who and why?
One of mine has always been Jo from 'Little Women' I wanted to be her when I was little!

[jenmck]

Which of your books have you most enjoyed writing, and why?

Well, the one I enjoyed writing the most was one called "Fires Of Passion". It's a romantic fantasy that was contracted but the book is currently homeless.
I loved it because I was completely free to create whatever I wanted. Fantasy is difficult but fun to write. I enjoyed making up the rules my characters have to follow. In suspense or even science fiction, there is an element of "established rules" that characters and plot must follow. In "Fires Of Passion" those rules were out the window. I absolutely loved that.
Now, whether I'm any good at it.....:lol:

[jenmck]

Hi Jen,
after a similar discussion with my son, I wondered whether you had a favourite character, if so who and why?
One of mine has always been Jo from 'Little Women' I wanted to be her when I was little!

Wow! This is so difficult! Have so many characters I love. Elizabeth Bennett (Pride and Prejudice), Agatha Troy (Ngaio Marsh books), Amelia Peabody (Elizabeth Peters books), Jessica Atrides (Dune Books by Frank Herbert).
But I think I'd have to say that my favorite character of all times is Harriet Vane featured in Dorothy L. Sayers books "Strong Poison", "Have His Carcass", "Gaudy Night" (my favorite) and "Busman's Honeymoon".
Even before I was an author, I loved how she managed to fight her way through being accused of murder, resisting Lord Peter's advances and then, falling in love with him.
She's smart, strong and her romance with Lord Peter Whimsey is brilliant.

[jenmck]

Okay, another question for you guys.

Most of us on this forum are bibliophiles. Do you find yourself drawn to one particular genre? Or do you bounce around?

I find that people give me strange looks when I tell them I read non-fiction for fun.

What about you?

[Kell]

Do you find yourself drawn to one particular genre? Or do you bounce around?
I used to stick mainly to horror when I was younger, but nowadays I make a concerted effort to try different genres and authors, and generally mix things up a lot to keep them interesting. I discovered, over the last couple of years, a love of historical fiction, and this year, an adoration of some of the classics! I've also been exploring foreign authors a lot more, purposely searching them out on occasion!

[jenmck]

I used to stick mainly to horror when I was younger, but nowadays I make a concerted effort to try different genres and authors, and generally mix things up a lot to keep them interesting. I discovered, over the last couple of years, a love of historical fiction, and this year, an adoration of some of the classics! I've also been exploring foreign authors a lot more, purposely searching them out on occasion!


I fell in love with "Shadow Of The Wind" by Carlos Ruiz Zafon (Spanish writer) last year.
I bounce around so much that Amazon has a tough time recommending stuff for me.
I'm sure the computer there is completely confused. :lol:

[JudyB]

I fell in love with "Shadow Of The Wind" by Carlos Ruiz Zafon (Spanish writer) last year.


That was one of my favourites of this year and I went on to read Winter in Madrid to find out more about the Spanish Civil War of which I knew embarrassingly very little.

Do you have a choice over what cover you have for your book? I have heard that some companys (not necessarily involved in publishing)can have a bigger say than the writer.

[jenmck]

That was one of my favourites of this year and I went on to read Winter in Madrid to find out more about the Spanish Civil War of which I knew embarrassingly very little.

Do you have a choice over what cover you have for your book? I have heard that some companys (not necessarily involved in publishing)can have a bigger say than the writer.

*writes down "Winter In Madrid"*

I also knew very little. What I've gotten has been Winston Churchill's take on it in his history series and "For Whom The Bell Tolls" which I didn't like much.

I have input on my covers. I asked for a fishing boat (that made it) but not the sexy guy on the front. :lol:
Because of the line this book was contracted under, it did have to have a "certain look" which I'm fine with.
My husband and I did laugh at the irony that the book is set in Alaska and the hot guy is shirtless! And he doesn't LOOK cold.

I've heard that bigger publisher let authors have ZERO input on their covers. In fact, one author I know was extremely upset over a cover she was given due to the "implied" nature of the picture which didn't match her book at all.

Often, sales are determined by how "sexy" a book is and that's the reality of publishing. I usually ask for what they call "concept covers" which involve less "sexy poses" and more "mood" covers. As you can see by my collection, it's about half and half.

I've been VERY lucky in my covers, acutally.

[Michelle]

From what I've seen, it appears the US readers like the 'sexy pose' covers etc, whereas in the UK it tends to be more abstract. Have you seen the differences between the Kelley Armstrong covers, for instance?

[jenmck]

From what I've seen, it appears the US readers like the 'sexy pose' covers etc, whereas in the UK it tends to be more abstract. Have you seen the differences between the Kelley Armstrong covers, for instance?


Oh absolutely, Michelle.

I notice a difference in Chick Lit too. For example, Jennifer Crusie's stuff and Sophie Kinsella both have that humorous, cartoonish cover thing going on. Yet, "Bet Me" by Crusie is just as sexy as some of my stuff.
I notice that the UK tends to be MUCH more subtle. I appreciate it.
There was a discussion on a blog about romance covers that noted the history of what they call "clinch covers". (Woman with huge breasts and man with long flowing hair in an impossible pose. *shudders*).
The established wisdom is that these covers were developed to sell to MEN who bought the books to sell in stores. Hence, "sexy" came to represent the genre.

[jenmck]

Hey Michelle, look at this perfect example.

Compare Kelley St. John's Chick Lit covers with her Harlequin Blaze covers.

http://www.kelleystjohn.com/Books.cfm

Interesting isn't it?

[Michelle]

Yep - and personally, I'd pick up the contemporary ones, but not the Blaze ones.. purely because of the covers. It's very judgemental of me, I know.

[jenmck]

Yep - and personally, I'd pick up the contemporary ones, but not the Blaze ones.. purely because of the covers. It's very judgemental of me, I know.

Believe me, we know that too.
The thing is that it cuts both ways. There's a ton of people who wouldn't pick up the contemporary ones. *shrugs* It's just tough to know which way to go.
Kelley St. John has gone BOTH ways. Very smart of her.

[Michelle]

However, that goes back to one of your other questions.. considering I don't like the blaze covers, would I look at that page, and judge *all* of her books to be the same, but with different types of covers? It's possible.

Fortunately, Kelley sent me a copy of one of the comp romance books, and I really liked it. Things like that are making me question my judgements.. and I may even pick up a blaze one one of these days! ;)

[Icecream]

I was going to ask whether you thought that covers can make for a bad representation of a book, but I think you would answer yes. We have had a few of these discussions on the forum and covers definitely show a lot about a book, but often we can be disappointed. I always read the burb to make a decision but I have probably missed a few good reads when browsing, as I look at covers because my attention span is not very good if I am not in the mood. I have also read some books that were bot up to the standard I first thought.

I have other books that look exactly like those blaze ones and found them good stories, but not something I could read too much of. I would see these and think they were the same, but they may not be.

[jenmck]

I was going to ask whether you thought that covers can make for a bad representation of a book, but I think you would answer yes. We have had a few of these discussions on the forum and covers definitely show a lot about a book, but often we can be disappointed. I always read the burb to make a decision but I have probably missed a few good reads when browsing, as I look at covers because my attention span is not very good if I am not in the mood. I have also read some books that were bot up to the standard I first thought.

I have other books that look exactly like those blaze ones and found them good stories, but not something I could read too much of. I would see these and think they were the same, but they may not be.

I think covers have a HUGE influence on the selling power of a book.
For example: I had a romantic fantasy that was part of a special line at a publisher. The biggest complaint about that line was the covers. Both authors and readers hated the covers. It was reflected in DISMAL sales, even for established, best selling authors. As a result, the line was discontinued and all the books were released from contract. Mine is still homeless right now.
That's a pretty extreme example.
Another author I know had a dark paranormal book that was given a "chicklit" like cover. The reader backlash was pretty harsh.
Covers can decide a book's fate and in a very short time.

[Icecream]

Thanks Jen, that seems rather unfair, but then that is how we are I suppose:roll:. Having written some books, do you personally think the covers do justice to the stories?

[jenmck]

Thanks Jen, that seems rather unfair, but then that is how we are I suppose:roll:. Having written some books, do you personally think the covers do justice to the stories?

Any opinion I give is very subjective. My first two covers with Cobblestone Press (by artist Anne Caine who is WONDERFUL) were perfect.
"A Taste Of Christmas" cover matched the mood and fit the book. "Singled Out" cover is directly from the book and perfect. "Double Trouble"? No. Not exactly what that story is about.
But "Triple Play" was perfect too (by an artist named Covervan).

The Wild Rose Press covers were more difficult since they were stock covers (for shorter stories). My newest one with them represents the story well.

Like I said, I've been very lucky. The covers I can't stand (and titles for that matter) are the ones that "dumb down" the content. There's an author I respect and she's released a book where they changed the title (it's pretty awful) and gave her a "hunk" (not a tasteful hunk in my opinion) on the cover.

Her writing is VERY good, but you'd never know it by the book cover. I'm not sure who they were aiming for, but I think it was a mistake.

But I'm no marketing expert either.

Of course, she's never said a thing about that cover, but I wonder if she had much choice in it. (It was a bigger publisher).

There's two things I can't stand for my own covers--boring or deceptive.

If my story is erotic romance, the cover ought to reflect what a person will find in the story.
If my story ISN'T erotic, no "clinch cover" please.

I don't envy cover artists, that's for sure.

[jenmck]

I meant to get here sooner.
I want to thank you guys for allowing me to be the featured author this month.
You all really asked me questions that made me ponder several things I had taken for granted. I appreciate that.
Congrats to IceCream who won a free book. I hope you enjoy it!!!
I, of course, am going absolutely nowhere and will try and improve my time on the Daily Quiz so that SOMEDAY I can beat Kell. :lol:

Thank you again.

[Michelle]

The end of the month completely ran away from me! Thank you for being here, and chatting about your books, and book covers. :D All the very best with everything.. including the daily quiz! ;)

[Kell]

It's been lovely having you as our feature'd author - thanks for being such a good sport. :) And as for the daily quiz, well, I'm not the one that's always at the top, so there's proof that it can be done! :lol:

[Icecream]

It has been very good having you here. Thanks for the book.