Interview with Jan Romes

Jan Romes

Interview Date: 4/30/2012

Biography

Jan Romes grew up in northwest Ohio with eight zany siblings. Married to her high school sweetheart for more years than seems possible, she is also a proud mom, mother-in-law, and grandmother. She likes to read all genres, writes witty contemporary romance, is a part-time fitness trainer, and enjoys growing pumpkins and sunflowers.


When did you start writing, and was there a significant event that prompted you to do so?

     First of all, thank you so much for having me here today, Kevin.

     I’ve dabbled with writing forever, but it wasn’t until I took some online classes in 2004 on story structure that I decided ‘I can do this’!


If you could have one superpower, what would it be? (Assuming said power would be reasonably "powerful.")

     The healing power of touch! Wouldn’t it be great to be able to fix a physical or mental problem for someone just by a gentle touch? To me, that would be one hell of a superpower!

Kev's response:  I'm not sure I wanted to get into some kind of discussion on erotica here....  All kidding aside, I would love to be able to heal people.


Do you have a favorite superhero from novels, comics, or movies?

     I sure do – Superman! Beneath the muscle and cape lurks a geek – Clark Kent. I’m a geek so it’s only natural that I can relate to one with phenomenal power.  

Kev's response:  So ... in secret you wear tights?  That's what you're getting at here, right?  I'm a Superman fan as well.  :)


Where do you get your inspiration for writing? What motivates you?

     This will sound cliché, but everything around me prompts some sort of romantic idea – a guest on Leno, a commercial, a song, the news. I’m always in book-plotting mode.       

Kev's response:  I'm always thinking of my next evil plot as well.  Ideas must come from somewhere!  >:)


Do you pre-plan your stories, or are you a by-the-seat-of-the-pants style writer?

     To a degree all writers pre-plan our stories. It might only be an idea we scribbled on a napkin, or it can be as intricate as a step-by-step outline that guides us all the way through. I’m a by-the-seat-of-the-pants writer. For me, laying the whole story out ahead of time sucks some of the joy out of writing.

Kev's response:  Like a giant, soul-sucking Doom Machine!  (By the way, that's my evil plot, and I've got it registered with the Committee for the Trademarking of Evil Plots and Plot Devices.  Don't try to steal it!)


Do you write only when inspired, or do you have a set schedule where you sit down to write?

     I write every day. Monday through Friday you’ll find me tapping away at the keyboard by at least 9:00 A.M. until it’s time to fix supper. On the weekends I may only manage enough time to peck out a few paragraphs. Also, I think it’s essential to stay at it, even on those days when nothing seems to come.


Do you have a favorite genre to write in? To read?

     I write romance laced with humor. My reading tastes vary according to my mood – some days I want a light and breezy book that will help me unwind, other days give me something dark and edgy. I’m not a genre snob – if the premise is good, I’ll read it.

Kev's response:  Ah, someone else with MPS.  Err, wait, you didn't say a voice was telling you those scenarios....


Is there any part of writing that you don't enjoy?

The hours spent sitting in front of a computer is probably my least favorite thing. I’m a part-time fitness instructor so I know I need to keep moving to stay healthy. I make sure I take plenty of breaks during my writing work day.

Kev's response:  Aha, and that helps ensure that one looks good in that costume, as well!


Can you tell me something odd about yourself?

Being a writer makes me odd straight away (but a good-odd…haha). Hmm. Let’s see…I would have to say that I could go for days without watching TV. I love watching television, but given the choice of writing or watching TV, I’d pick writing every time. One more thing, I think sweet potatoes are evil! *grins* I cringe even typing the words.

Kev's response:  Aha, and that helps ensure that one looks good in that costume, as well!


Can you tell me something odd about yourself?

     Being a writer makes me odd straight away (but a good-odd…haha). Hmm. Let’s see…I would have to say that I could go for days without watching TV. I love watching television, but given the choice of writing or watching TV, I’d pick writing every time. One more thing, I think sweet potatoes are evil! *grins* I cringe even typing the words.      


Do you write one story at a time, or do you have several novels in the works at one time?

     I have to write one story at a time, but I have a manila folder with tons of ideas that I can’t wait to get started on. But I have to tuck it away or I’ll get distracted by the urge to start something else.


Where do you see the future as far as paper books versus digital e-books?

     I think everything in life is cyclical. Digital e-books will take the market share for awhile, but paper books will find their way back. Since I’m a sucker for happily-ever-after, I think the publishing world will eventually stabilize, allowing both digital e-books and paper books to co-exist.


What are your current projects?

     Last week I typed ‘The End’ on my work-in-progress and finished editing on Friday. So I’m going to take a peek in my manila folder to see what’s next.


Do you have any advice for others about self-publishing?

     Three words – don’t be afraid! There are plenty of people who have paved the way and they are happy to help.


Do you have any online sites where readers can find out more about you (and your books)?

     Website – www.janromes.com

     Twitter - https://twitter.com/#!/JanRomes

     Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/people/Jan-Romes/1418424489

     Blog – www.jantheromancewriter.blogspot.com




Kev's response:  Jan, thanks for joining me (and putting up with some snarky remarks)!  I wish you the best!
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