Literary Spotlight: Janet Evanovich

Janet Evanovich

Janet Evanovich is the author of a series of The New York Times bestselling mysteries featuring Stephanie Plum.

Q: Amidst all those rejection letters, what advice do you have for new writers waiting for that first sale?

A: “Move on to a new book. Always keep writing. Don’t wait around to sell something.”

Q: You have said, “I wouldn't go so far as to say Stephanie is an autobiographical character, but I will admit to knowing where she lives.” How does this connection help develop a fictional character?

A: “Putting a part of myself into Stephanie was a way of keeping her reactions honest. Because she’s part of a series it, helps to maintain a consistent personality.”

Q: What is the most difficult part of writing a series with the same main character?

A “For me, the difficult part is the relationship between my heroine and the two men in her life. I love the adventure of the romantic chase but I don’t want to turn this into a romance/family saga.”

Q: What can authors learn from your expansive interactive website?

A: “The website is an invaluable way to inform the consumer that a new product (book!) is available. And it is fun.”

Q: How does a writer successfully accomplish moving between genres without letting down their fans?

A: “In my case, I took what I loved about romance and squashed it into a mystery format. By doing this, I had something for everyone.”

Carlotta Holton is the author of Salem Pact and Touching The Dead, and is a member of the National Federation of Press Women and an affiliate member of the Horror Writers Association.

Carlotta Holton has just received her second award for Touching the Dead from the National Federation of Press Women Communications Contest. Click here to purchase the book.