The market is tight and publishers are more cautious than ever about their purchases... This makes it difficult to break-in but there is always room for a fresh premise told well.
Thriller author Wendy Roberts is an armchair sleuth and a fan of all things mysterious. We catch up with her to talk about writing by the seat of your pants, the value of writers conferences and the evolving nature of book marketing.
What made you want to be an author?
Besides the wonderful bonus of not having to get out of my pyjamas while I work, I’ve always been a lover of stories. I’m a voracious reader and writing brings that love full circle for me.
Do you have a writing routine?
When under deadline, I tend to write from 6 am until noon. When I’m not under deadline, anything goes.
You are known for your mystery series. What do you think is key to writing a good mystery?
It’s important to keep the suspense going while trying not to reveal too much too soon. If I am astonished by whodunit, that helps ensure the reader will also be surprised.
How do you outline your work and begin writing?
I don’t outline at all. I prefer to write entirely by the seat of my pants and don’t know who the murderer is until I’m about three-quarters of the way through my first draft. It makes my second draft more work, of course, but I love the thrill of discovering the plot along the way.
Do you have any tips for a productive writing day?
For me, a productive day means a lot of coffee and healthy snacks within reach and the internet turned off.
Is there any particular incident that has happened along your writing journey that you’d like to share?
On two occasions I’ve written what I thought were stand-alone books that turned into series. Both times it took me by surprise and I had to develop a different thought process to create the additional books. I loved every minute of it.
Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?
Attend writing conferences for knowledge and motivation. Writing can be isolating but there is so much to learn from others. Also, write as much as you possibly can!
What do you think is the biggest challenge for new authors?
The market is tight and publishers are more cautious than ever about their purchases. As a result, agents also must be extraordinarily particular. This makes it difficult to break-in, however, there is always room for a fresh premise told well.
What methods of book marketing do you find the most effective?
This is something I review with each book. There was a time when blog tours were a huge help but now social media promotion seems to get me more bang for my buck.
What is the best writing advice you have received?
While waiting to hear about whether or not your current book will be accepted and/or published, you should already be working on your next project.
You can find out more about Wendy via her website and social media: Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
