Carly Phillips - How She Does It

Hello Fellow Writers!

I've started round two of the Advanced Writing Workshop offered at my local community college. Last time I brought "The Movie Star's Very Personal Assistant" to class for critique, and I felt that my manuscript really came to it's full potential. This time I'm bringing "Snowed in With a Millionaire" for critique.

I'm currently waiting to hear back from both Silhouette Desire on the partial they requested, as well as from Ellora's Cave for the submission to their "Alluring Arts" theme. "The Art Thief's Punishment" is being considered by their acquiring editors. As soon as I hear back I'll blog about it!

I've been working on another erotic romance targeted towards Ellora's Cave called "Taste of Candy", about a rock star and the woman named Candace (Candy for short!) who he falls in love with.

Next weekend is my monthly meeting for the Hudson Valley Romance Writers of America, but due to my work schedule I'll be unable to attend until June! But they have tons of great interviews with romance authors on their website at HudsonValleyRWA.com.

Here is an excerpt from an interview with New York Tines bestselling romance author Carly Phillips. For the whole interview, check it out here.

• Where do you get your ideas for a romance novel?

Everywhere. Magazines, television shows, daytime TV, real-life situations - For me anything can be given a fresh spin. It's been said there are only seven story ideas in the world and everything spins from that. Something to think about!

• How important is it for you to have a critique partner?

Invaluable. From a person who came into this business skeptical one was necessary, I now can't live without one. From my first critique partner (Kathy Attalla) to my current (Janelle Denison), I've been very lucky. It's important to have personalities that mesh, writing needs that click and also someone you trust not to mess with your voice or story, just to point out things that are important!

• If your book was made into a movie, which actors would you like to see play your characters?

Oh I don't know! Young and beautiful works for me, LOL! I've never really thought about it.

• What do you know now about writing/publishing that you wished you knew before The Call?

Everything! Actually I just think you should immerse yourself in the publishing business because it isn't an easy one to understand. And the world is changing. It's very different now than it was when I first sold. Writers need to understand how publishers are reacting to the economy and market and learn to adjust their thinking accordingly. RWA is a great asset because you can reach out to so many authors and loops and learn so much.

For more information about Carly Phillips you can visit her website at: www.carlyphillips.com.

This week I'll try and finish up "Taste of Candy" as well as revise "Snowed in With a Millionaire" as I get the chapter notes back from Vinnie Dacquino, the writing teacher and an author.
Wish me luck and good luck to you too!

Yours Truly,
Shoshanna Evers