Romance at Heart Magazine Author Interview: Patricia Parkinson

Interview with Patricia Parkinson:

Hi Patricia. Thank you for doing this interview. I understand you write under the pen name of Sage Burnett. Welcome you to the Romance at Heart Interview and Author Grilling session. *bg* We are interested to find out as much about you, and Sage, as we possibly can, so lets get started...

- Please tell us about your latest book.

My most recent release is COWBOY BLUES from Mardi Gras Publishing. The hero, Matt Brennan, and heroine, Laura Kent, both end up at the same secluded mountain cabin. Both looking for solitude. Once they recover from the initial shock of having company, the sparks start to fly. It's a fun, light, breezy read which I really enjoyed writing.

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

My Website: www.patriciaparkinson.com.

- How may readers contact you?

Readers can reach me from my website.

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

Taking my black lab, Madison for long walks. We both love to walk. Reading, hiking in the mountains in the summer. Snowshoeing in the winter.

- Where do your ideas come from?

The idea fairy. Seriously, I feel like there's a lovely princess that visits me from time to time and waves her magical wand over me tossing fairy dust filled with new ideas for me to explore.

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

Definitely. For example, even in a serious romantic suspense I love it when the author throws in some witty dialogue or a comical situtation. Laughter is good for us. In books, movies and in life.

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

In the beginning I did, but not so much anymore. What's hard is coming up with fresh ideas and ways to present the love scene between the characters. Love scenes are so important to a romance story, whether, sensual or erotic.

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

Lisa Jackson, Dana Stabenow, Lisa Gardner, John Sandford, Tony Hillerman.

- Where do you see yourself in five years?

Hopefully still weaving stories for readers to enjoy.

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

My Favorite book would be KARLY'S DRIFTER, Book 1 of RODEO COWBOY SERIES. I love the hero and heroine in this book and I especially love their journey. Favorite hero would be Hawk Rivers from Karly's Drifter. Hawk has a tortured past and has pretty much shut himself off from other people, until he meets Karly. Favorite Heroine would be Josie Landford from JOSIE'S HEARTBREAKER, Book 3 of RODEO COWBOYS. Josie is a woman on a mission. A mission to fulfill a fantasy of having an affair with a rodeo cowboy. So she charges in full steam ahead.

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

The characters usually take shape in my mind, then I start thinking of scenarios to build a story involving them.

- What are the elements of a great romance for you?

Compelling and flawed characters. I love flawed characters. Strong sexual and emtional tension. The hero and heroine overcoming any and all obstacles to be together.

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

I try to control them, but I realized a long time ago that my characters always take on a life of their own, which is what makes writing so much fun for me. Although, they can throw me a curve ball when I least expect it.

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

Using my imagination. It's fun, challenging and sometimes frustrating.

- Are there any words of encouragement for unpublished writers?

Never give up your dream. It's a tough profession to break into, but if you really want to be published, you will.

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!

Patricia Parkinson's site Sage's Website Sage's MySpace Interview Review
Buy Sage's Books At Siren
Buy Sage's Books at Mardi Gras