ALL THINGS ROMANTIC SUSPENSE

SPOTLIGHT AUTHOR:   URSULA GREY

Would you describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert?

I would describe myself as a combination of the two. If pressed, I would say I'm more of an introvert, especially as I've grown older. I enjoy my own company and am not uncomfortable spending time alone. However, I also consider myself a people person, make friends easily, but my really good friends can be counted on one hand. I am more of a listener as opposed to a talker. I'm a private person, sharing my inner thoughts with a select few. This could also be because I'm a little shy. Perhaps that is part of the reason I love writing – it's liberating getting all those secret thoughts out into the openJ.

What are your favorite books to read?

I enjoy reading novels that, I suppose, can be classified as women's fiction. I enjoy romance, science fiction, mysteries, historical fiction, erotica…I think ultimately most any genre appeals to me if the story is well-written and contains something I can relate to. I like to read about women who overcome obstacles and attain the goals they set for themselves. I also enjoy the classics…Gosh, who am I kidding? I'll read just about anything!

How many books have you written and how many of those are published? 

So far, I have written Second Chances, a novel published by Bookstrand. A Day in April 1944, and Heph's Revenge, a short story in the Divine Matches Anthology, are both published by eXcessica. I also have a new release coming out on February 21^st with Noble Romance Publishing. It's a novella entitled, Adelaide's Adventure.

Where can we purchase your books?

Amazon

Do you have one particular genre that all your books fall under (i.e. suspense, romance, etc.)  or do you write in many different genres?

No, not really. I think I will eventually write in different genres…One of my books is a women's fiction/mainstream romance with elements of suspense and chicklit. LOL – that would be Second Chances. A Day in April 1944 and Adelaide's Adventure are both erotic historical romances. Heph's Revenge is an erotic romance featuring your favorite gods and goddesses. I don't want to limit myself to one genre because I enjoy reading several.

How much character and plot detailing do you plan out before you begin writing a novel, or are you a “pantser” (fly by the seat of your pants) ?

I'm a definite pantser. I start with a character ~ usually observe them involved in some activity…I start writing and the story flows from that particular scene. This is what works best for me. I do what the characters tell me they want to do. Or, I basically follow them around and spy on themJ.

Prior to becoming a published author, how many rejections did you receive?  How did you handle the rejections?

I've received my share of rejections. Many were filled with encouraging words, so I knew I could write. Life intervened and for many years I put my writing on hold. When it was time to begin again, all of a sudden, the acceptances began to arrive! I haven't stopped since. I think with the advent of the ebook, more talented writers found a home for their writing. The playing field has definitely changed! What is also so great about epublishing is the quicker turnaround time regarding the submission process. Yes, it's agonizing to await word on material you've submitted, but at least you can now query electronically and not have to wait ages for a response – or to see your work in "print"!

If you have a new release coming out, tell us about it.

Here's the blurb for Adelaide's Adventure, to be released on February 21^st. You can get a copy at http://www.nobleromance.com/ .

Adelaide anticipates an uneventful journey—however, the man sharing her stagecoach has other ideas. Will Adelaide acquiesce to the unusual demands placed upon her by the mysterious stranger? She quickly comes to the realization that Mr. Winters wants not only to dominate her time—but her body as well. Will she have the courage to submit?

If you could give one piece of advice to writers trying to get published, what would that advice be?

Hone your craft. Read books on writing. And read! If you don't read, you can't write. The two just go together. Also, never give up. Keep on submittling, but look for a publisher that's right for your. Do your research on the publishers you submit to. Read their guidelines carefully. Make sure your work is the best it can be before you submit it. It will only be a matter of time before you're published. Last but not least, never give up on your dream to become a published author. All the hard work is worth the end result.

Where can we read more about you and your work?

I would be pleased if readers stopped by my blog for a visit. I talk about writing mostly, the creative process, how to improve your craft, resources for writers and readers, and just about anything else that's on my mind at the time. Ursula Grey…Writing Away, is located at http://ursulagrey.wordpress.com/  . If you'd like to follow me on Twitter, my handle is @UrsulaGrey

Thanks for stopping by today and sharing your work with us, Ursula.  Best wishes on all your endeavors!