How did you start out your writing career?
I have always loved to read and write. I started out writing journals, then poetry, then really short “books” and then I decided to see if I had what it took to write an entire novel.
What did you learn while writing this book?
I learned more than I wanted to know about re-writing and editing, lol! It was fun researching the ballet industry. I feel all of my hard work was worth it, though, because I’m thrilled with the final result and I hope everyone else will be too.
What did you hope to accomplish with this book?
I wanted to introduce my readers to something new that’s not written about a lot, especially in AA romance, and that’s the world of ballet—the fierce drive you have to possess and a little insight into what it takes to succeed in such a competitive field. I hope readers will take to heart one of the main messages of OUR FIRST DANCE and that is to never give up on your dreams because they can come true.
What came first with this story, the characters or the plot?
Why? The story came first, then the plot and finally the characters. I always dream up the story first before anything else. I was sitting around thinking about my next book and the idea hit me to write about a ballerina waiting for her big break. From there, more of the plot began to unfold and lastly my characters took shape.
What has surprised you most about becoming a published author?
How long it takes to go from my completing a book to publication. I foolishly thought I’d write the book, turn it into my editor (who would love it, of course) and then I’d start writing my next book—not! I found out there’s a LOT of work that happens between writing the book and getting it published.
What aspect of writing do you love the best, and which do you hate the most?
I love forming the idea for a book and then fleshing out the entire story and characters before finally rolling up my sleeves and starting to write—that’s the absolute best part. The thing I hate is waiting for editorial feedback—that’s a time of angst and biting of fingernails that wipes me out!
What are three things you wish you’d known before you reached where you are now?
1) How much hard work goes into taking the book from an idea in my head to an actual print/bound book, 2) How much time is required for good promotion and 3) I wish I had created an on-line presence before being published so that I my name would be familiar to readers.
Can you give us one do and one don’t for those aspiring to be a writer?
Do always believe in yourself and keep writing. Don’t ever give up on your dreams and don’t take criticism personally.
What one thing about writing do you wish other non-writers would understand?
How hard it is to take a single idea and transform it into an entire book.
Tell us something few know about you?
Well, I love to crochet and I have a killer DVD collection.
When you're not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time?
Spare time, what’s that, lol? Honestly, when I do get a break, I enjoy quiet time with my family, listening to music or watching movies (I’m a horror movie fanatic) and backyard barbecues (if the weather’s not too hot). I’m also a sucker for going to casinos and playing the slot machines.
What do you do to interact with your readers?
I love interacting with my readers. I’m very active on Facebook and Twitter. I have a blog and website and encourage readers to email me.
Our theme for this month is BUSINESS OF WRITING. What were you surprised by about the business side of writing?
Everything! To name a few things, contracts, deadlines, editorial feedback, promotion, whether or not to self-publish or go with one of the big houses—whew!
Who was the first author you ever met?
Sandra Brown at a signing and I love her work.
Oprah always asks, what do you know for sure?
I know for sure that I will spend a part of each day writing something, because it’s in my blood.
Can you give us a sneak peek of your next book?
My next book will be the sequel to OUR FIRST DANCE. The title is preliminary now, so I can’t share it yet (sigh). It’s about Marcy (Damien’s sister) and Nathan (Natasha’s brother). Both met towards the end of OUR FIRST DANCE and sparks were definitely flying. Nathan has secrets and Marcy’s determined to find out what they are!
How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website)
Email: judylynnhubbard@gmail.com.
Website: www.judylynnhubbard.com.
My Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Judy-Lynn-Hubbard-Romance-Author/115015855239012
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JudyLynnHubbard
SORMAG celebrates 12 years this year, Can you tell us what SORMAG has meant to you as a reader and writer?
I only recently found SORMAG, but I think it’s a great magazine. As a reader and writer, I appreciate your willingness to showcase new writers so that they can gain more exposure and readers can learn about them and their work. Thank you so much for interviewing me for SORMAG!
Natasha Carter is committed to becoming a prima ballerina. So Damien Johnson is the kind of temptation she doesn't need, no matter how dazzling his technique. She's sure she can keep the unexpected passion between them strictly professional and achieve everything she's worked so hard for. But every step, every caress and every tantalizing kiss is making Natasha question if a forever without Damien is really a dream worth achieving.…
BOOK TRAILER: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLkNJHPaF4g&feature=plcp
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2 comments:
Congratulations on your latest novel and welcome to SORMAG. Your book sounds interesting; I will add it to my list. I wish you continued success. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks to SORMAG for featuring me. I really appreciate your support!!
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