Romance at Heart Magazine Author Interview: Audrey Godwin

Interview with Audrey Godwin:

Hi Audrey. Thank you for doing this interview. I would like to welcome you to the Romance at Heart Interview and Author Grilling session. *bg* We are interested to find out as much about you as we possibly can, so lets get started...

- Please tell us about your latest book.

My latest book is Beautiful Devil. When I first began writing the book I intended for Trina Lux, the over-the-hill film diva, to be only a minor character, though colorful and interesting. What she turned into was a bigger-than-life villainess with a dementia that put her right in the center of the spotlight. Although I didn’t expect it, I wasn’t surprised. Characters do that sometime, and in many of my previous books I’ve had several come out of the shadows and take over. Because of her the book turned into a cross between horror and romance. The hero and heroine, who were supposed to be the ones to take center stage were forced into the background, allowing their love affair to unfold in the shadows. Another character that will be appreciated is Trina’s housekeeper, Dagmar. She has quite a story behind her.

- How do we find out about you and your books?

Just click into www.audreygodwin.com and you will find all my books. Some have been epublished, one is in softcover, and since I am not affiliated with New Concepts Publishing anymore, I am selling the ones they handled myself until I get them placed with a new publisher. Just click on my “Bookstore” tab, and it will take you into “Audrey’s Store.” Don’t miss the excerpts or the synopses.

- Where do your ideas come from?

I’ve had ideas come from all sources. Some in dreams, some from real life, and others from my own vivid imagination. I swore I would never write Science Fiction, but when I got a picture in my head of a hero you wouldn’t believe, I almost lost my breath! He’s my secret, and the only thing I’ll say about him is, he’ll make your mouth water!

- What kind of research do you do?

I’m a romance writer... use your imagination!

- Who are some of your favorite authors?

Cheryl Holt and Audrey Godwin, but not necessarily in that order.

- Who, if anyone, has influenced your writing?

Everyone that I’ve ever read.

- Are you a member of any author groups - RWA, critique groups, etc.?

I used to be a member of RWA until I realized they didn’t consider me an author just because I write ebooks.

- What do you think of critique groups in general?

Some are very harsh with new authors. Some seem to have an axe to grind. Others do the job they were given to do with tact and grace. They are the ones who make a difference.

- Where do you see yourself in five years?

With a toy boy on each arm!

- How long have you been writing - have you always wanted to be a writer?

Writing has always been in the back of my mind, but it seemed other things were always comng along to push it out such as teenage years, blind ambition to be an actress, then singer, and then a man... my husband. Even so, I find that I’m right on time. In my younger days I was what they called a party girl. In order to write some of the things I do you have to know what you’re doing, and to have LIVED! And I have!

- After you've written your book and it's been published, do you ever buy it and read it?

No. It’s not necessary to buy it and read it. You’re given a certain number of copies if it is in print, and you are sent the electronic copy if it is an ebook.

- Among your own books, have you a favorite book? Favorite hero or heroine?

Like a mother, it’s hard to choose a favorite. Books, like children, are all loved equally, but differently. After all, they have different plots, characters, and personalities. Read my book, Shadow Lover and you will know what I mean when you read the part where Chyna Marsh thoughtfully strokes the covers of all her books, each one bringing a loving smile to her lips.

- Which comes first, the story, the characters or the setting?

The answer to this question might be different with every author, but with me there’s no pat answer. In some cases it has been the title like it was in Midnight Mistress. To me that title conjured up visions of a late night steam queen, and Brandi Heartt was born. It also might be one specific character as it was in Beautiful Devil. I saw Trina Lux early in the writing of the novel, and based her character on the combined talents of two old time film diva’s, Gloria Swanson and Marlene Deitrich... an explosive combination! In my future book, Siren’s Song I have already visualized the hero, and have no doubt that I will build the entire book around him. So, call me crazy, or call me a genius, that’s what it take to be creative.

- Are you in control of your characters or do they control you?

Apparently they are in control of me, since I sometime intend one thing for them, and end up writing something completely different. Trina Lux was going to be a minor character, and before I knew it, boom! She pushed her way forward, took the role of the villainess and eclipsed even the hero and heroine! Actually, I can’t blame her too much since she’s an actress and used to being in the spotlight. Ready to call the men in the white coats yet?

- Have you experienced writer's block---> If so, how did you work through it?

No, I haven’t had that problem yet. Instead the ideas for books swirl in my head, and I find myself frantically writing down notes for books that might not see the light of day for years to come. On my computer I have a folder created especially to house my novel ideas. It’s packed!

- What is the most rewarding thing about being a writer?

Creating. I love it! I get so involved in my work, I can acually visualize the worlds I create as clearly as if they were on a movie screen. I know my characters as well as I know any family member. I can make them sinister, or noble, decent or vulgar... which brings Brothers of the Night to mind. Read it, but be warned. It’s a shapeshifter and not for the faint of heart!

- Any words of encouragement for unpublished writers?

By all means. Whatever you do, don’t get discouraged. It’s awfully easy to let doubts sneak in when someone is unkind about your writing. It’s happened to me and it will happen to you. In fact it’s happened to all of us. Remember that I... we understand and are rooting for you. Keep writing, and before you know it you will find someone that will appreciate your talent.

- What question would you love to answer that I didn't ask?

None that I can think of... however, if I may I’d like to mention a website called www.treasuresfromparadise.net. They have kindly listed some of my books, so I’d like to give them a plug. They have some beautiful things for sale that you might like, so drop by and have a look. I’m sure you’ll find it interesting. Until next time... Audrey Godwin

Thank you very much, for taking the time with us and answering our questions, Audrey. I really appreciate this interruption to busy schedule. Good Luck, and we will be looking forward to the next delightful creation from your talented imagination!

Yours in good reading,
Rose!

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