Romance at Heart Magazine Author Interview: Laura Marie Henion

Interview with Laura Marie Henion:

Hi Laura. 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.

This October, 2007 I will be releasing my latest book COP'S DAUGHTER-GRACE Book Three of the Series.

- What can we expect from you in the future?

I will continue to create other books to the COP'S DAUGHTER Series and I will be releasing a separate novel called LILLIAN'S LOVE in March 2008. This book will be available through LACHESIS PUBLISHING HOUSE

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

Please visit my website at www.lauramariehenion.com/ or on Amazon.com just click onto books then type in Laura Marie Henion. Readers can also visit the publishing house site at www.whiskeycreekpress.com.

- How may readers contact you?

I have received dozens of emails from my readers. Unfortunately, I think many readers are under the impression that most authors do not have time to respond to their reader fans. I love to hear from them so please do not hesitate to contact me through my website or at authorlauramarie@gmail.com Leave a comment or a review of one of my books. I have even established a READERS REVIEW section on my website for this purpose. Real reviews from real people.

- Do your fans' comments and letters influence you in any way?

I love to hear the numerous opinions my readers and fans send to me. I especially love their insight into the characters I have created. They talk about certain scenes in the book and remember each detail during the scene. Many readers share the emotions they felt while reading certain parts of the books. I especially love when they recall laughing at a certain part or feeling concerned for the heroine. They have told me that they could not put the book down until they knew that the main heroine was going to be okay. That is great.

- Do you have a favorite comment or question from a reader?

One comment that comes to mind is the description of my COP'S DAUGHTER Series, as "reading like a CSI episode". How cool is that? Also I love hearing from readers asking when the next book of the series is going to be released and whether I can give them a sneak peak at the story.

- Why did you decide to write romance novels?

I have always enjoyed reading romance and suspense novels. I feel that the romance is a necessary factor when writing a great suspense. It is incredible when there is some conflict or in this case, mystery to solve and at the same time the individual has to work through personal emotions and inner conflicts. To have multiple conflicts at the same time is a reality of real life. I try to portray this through my characters in such a way that my readers feel for the characters emotional struggles. In some cases as many readers have stated, not being able to put the book down until they knew that the heroine was going to be okay.

- Do you have a target audience, and if so, who are they?

My target audience would have to be all lovers of romance and suspense novels of course but definitely busy women on the go that don't necessarily have the time to read four or five hundred page novels but want the full plot, a compelling story with lovable characters and a complete ending. My stories are fast paced but full of everything necessary to satisfy the voracious appetite of true romance and suspense lovers.

- What motivated you to start writing in this genre?

A love of these types of stories is what motivated me to write. I have always enjoyed this genre.

- Who would you say has influenced you the most?

I have been most influenced by other women who take care of their husbands and children, work either at home or out of the home, yet still make the time to achieve their goals and dreams. When you truly love something, you can make the time to enjoy that love. For me it is writing romance and suspense novels. When the kids are off to bed, when I have finished cleaning up after them and finished the office work I sit back and type away on my laptop. It is my time, my love and indulgence in something spectacular that has become a large part of who I am.

- What are your main concerns as a writer?

My main concern as a writer is not living up to the standards I have set in providing such complete and appealing stories. I feel that my writing is unique and draws the reader into each scene, each scenario and causes the reader stay engaged in the story and its characters. I would be devastated if I failed at this.

- How much of your personality and life experiences are in your writing?

I believe that in each story I have created there is a little bit of my personality, my likes and dislikes as well as opinions on certain subject matters. While I write and create each character in my books, I try to imagine the emotions, the struggles, the triumphs that they feel throughout the book. I try to make it as realistic as I can but also insightful. I tend to bring out a lot of community awareness and empowerment to women in my novels. This most likely stems from my law enforcement family background as well as my Bachelors Degree in Social Work.

- What would you say are the biggest challenges that you face?

The biggest challenges that one faces, as an author is the ability to spread the word about your work. Exposure is everything and this can be costly. I write in a very competitive genre where I need to make my novels stand out to get noticed. What I love is the increase in readers investigating new and unknown authors. Online sights that list small press authors are great places to find a fulfilling read in every genre. I personally continue to support my fellow authors and hope they do the same.

- How do you deal with these challenges?

I try to schedule interviews and look into online sites that tend to be less expensive than traditional magazines and other resources. Most people shop online now a days and establishing a website with lots of information helps. I have also added a shopping cart where readers can order an autographed copy of my books directly from me. I include a bookmark, packaging and gift-wrapping as well. This is one way to stand out. I can show my appreciation to those who support and love my work.

- When did you first think about writing and what prompted you to submit your first ms?

I was taking care of my three young children all under five years old at the time. In between diaper changes, baths, playtime and housework I would sit down and read a book. I used to love the long romance and suspense novels but they took me weeks to read. I recalled my love for writing as a child and young adult and how enjoyable it was. I realized that all my energy, my time and dedication was to everyone in the house but myself. I was a bit down and tired and definitely in need of alone time. The only time that was available was late at night and early in the morning. I pondered over taking the time to actually write and finally made the decision to just do it.

So I took pen in hand and began to write. I had a short story in mind, knowing how limited on time I had but somewhere along the way, the story continued into a full-length novel. This was my first manuscript JUST LOVE ME.

- Generally, how long does it take you to write a book?

A minimum of eight months.

- Do you have a set schedule for writing or do you just go with the flow?

I tend to go with the flow but now that my youngest is five years old he doesn't need that constant attention. I still tend to feel that motherly guilt at times and live by the rule that my children come first. So, I tend to wake up early in the morning, anywhere from four a.m. to five a.m. This is when I get most of my work done.

- What is your writing routine once you start a book?

I write everything down and allow the story to unfold with each page. Then I go back and take each chapter and expand on it being sure to get all the points across and maintain the conflict, the mystery and of course the romance.

- What about your family, do they know not to bother you when you are writing - or are there constant interruptions?

CONSTANT INTERRUPTIONS…but I have learned to deal with this and it is funny but interruptions and outbursts have become part of my writing routine.

- What do you do to relax and recharge your batteries?

I work out a lot, engage in a wonderful self-defense and kick boxing and aerobics class at my local Martial Arts school. It is invigorating but more importantly a form of self-defense training. I always fell re energized after these classes.

- What truly motivates you in general? In your writing?

I am motivated by my goals of providing a loving and strong foundation for my children. I am their delegate, their teacher in life and must provide them with stability, love, morals and values to ensure their proper place in society today. These goals pour into my writing in so many ways. I hope to one day achieve national recognition for my writing. My children's future, their pride and respect are a main part of my motivation and desire to succeed. I continuously tell my children that they can accomplish anything they set their minds on. It doesn't matter what other people say, what matters is that Mommy and Daddy are here for you, we believe in you and you will always have our support.

- Where do your ideas come from?

Many of my ideas come from my knowledge of being part of a law enforcement family. There is a great pride in being a cop's daughter but also in being raised to believe in and support those who serve our communities and our country on a daily basis. I tend to write a lot about law enforcement, firefighters, EMS and the military.

- Do you feel humour is important in women's fiction and why?

Humor is definitely important in women's fiction. There are many humorous events that take place in a woman's life and more importantly there are conflicts where having a sense of humor can be life saving. I always try to add a bit of humor in my stories. Laughter is an important part of life.

- What are your thoughts on love scenes in romance novels, do you find them difficult to write?

I don't find the love scenes difficult to write for many reasons. First of all, I write what can be labeled as sweet romance. I am very comfortable with this level. Secondly, as the author I am trying to portray so many deep and meaningful emotions between my hero and my heroine. If I were to minimize the power, the strength and connection I tried so hard to create then the story would lose its credibility and "Ahhh factor". Just as the reader is learning about my characters and their personalities and empathizing with the decisions they need to make, I as an author need to continue this connection throughout the story. There is nothing more amazing then that first kiss whether in love or in lust.

- What kind of research do you do?

I do all types of research and have accessibility to numerous law enforcement personnel and information. There are also many people in the community I live in that can assist with specifics that help me to maintain credibility for my stories. I have friends involved in law enforcement, EMS and who are firefighters. This helps a great deal to be able to interview them and gain a better understanding and respect for the job they do. I therefore can present the authentic qualities to my readers through the characters I create.

- Would you like to write a different genre than you do now, or sub-genre?

I have often thought about writing a young adult novel as well as an inspirational novel.

- What does your husband think of your writing?

My husband is supportive of my writing. When I was struggling a bit in the beginning trying to submit my work for publication and receiving declines, my husband encouraged me to continue. Then he proved his support even more by buying me my first laptop computer for my birthday. The kids helped him to pick it out and they were thrilled to be part of such an incredible gift. I cried at that one. They truly had no idea just how powerful and meaningful that gift was to me. I will cherish that moment forever.

- Do you ever ask him/her for advice?

I often ask him advice on business moves. Whether I should spend money on certain types of promotion or have certain extras available at scheduled book signings. He has great insight and business sense. I have learned a lot from him.

- Please tell us about yourself (family, hobbies, education, etc.)

I come from a large law -enforcement family background. I have older brothers and I am the only girl as well as the youngest. I have a Bachelors Degree in Social Work and have always enjoyed working with people and helping in the community. I have three children and a wonderful husband. I am a strong believer in self-awareness for women and children and believe that everyone should receive some sort of self-defense training. It is a definite must in today's society. I enjoy working out, gardening, reading and playing with my children. I love to listen to music and to dance. I enjoy a nice glass of wine and quiet conversations with my husband. To me there is nothing more incredible and touching then a child's laughter or their whispered words of "I love you Mommy" just out of the blue.

- Fill in the blank favorites -

Dessert - I love Chocolate Brownie Sundaes.
City - New York of course.
Season - Spring.
Type of hero - Strong, courageous good looks help and patriotic.
Type of heroine - Attractive, educated, strong and well trained.

- What are some of your favorite things to do?

Garden, Swim, Kick Boxing

- Do you have a favorite author and/or a favorite book?

No favorite author. My favorite book was NORTH AND SOUTH.

- Who are some of your other favorite authors to read?

Nora Roberts, Tami Hoag, Linda Lael Miller.

- Who, if anyone, has influenced your writing?

My love of a good and complete romance and suspense story combined with my creative writing skills and technical assistant's input.

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

I am a member of RWA and EPIC Authors.

- What do you think of critique groups in general?

I have yet to engage or look into any critique groups.

- Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years, I hope to be a more established author with at least another six to eight books under my belt as well as having a literary agent to represent me.

- How many books have you written, how many have been published?

I currently have four full-length novels published. I will be releasing the fifth book and the third book to the COP'S DAUGHTER Series in October. After that, I will be releasing a separate novel called LILLIAN'S LOVE Through Lachesis Publishing House in March 2008. I have another complete manuscript I have yet to submit to any publisher and I continue to work on the COP'S DAUGHTER Series.

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

I usually read one of the copies I order for the book premiere and signing event. I love the feel of a new book in my hands and imagine the many people who will open the pages and read the story I have created.

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

No…Too difficult.

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

Yours in good reading,
Rose!

Laura Marie Henion Email Laura Her Publisher Laura's MySpace Reviews Coming Soon
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Buy Author's Books at Whiskey Creek Press