Interview Questions
During my virtual book tour for Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy ~ Two Shall Become One I "sat" for a bunch of interviews. The questions were varied, but often similar in theme and were typical of the queries I receive from readers via email. So I have decided to place them here! Each question is exactly as it was asked and answered on my virtual tour. In all cases I answered honestly from my heart with the desire to enlighten as to my philosophy in writing this series.
Questions about the movie as my inspiration
The Darcy Saga was influenced by the 2005 movie version of P&P starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen. What attracted you to this version of P&P?
I walked into the theater an Austen virgin for the most part. I had only seen the major motion picture adaptations of “Emma” and “Sense and Sensibility” prior to seeing P&P, and those movies were so well done that I was very excited. Yet nothing prepared me for how I was struck by Joe Wright’s masterpiece! Everything about it was phenomenal to me, and still is. The costumes, the music, the cinematography, the drama, the passion, the humor, the language, the actors (every last one), the gritty realistic atmosphere – all of it absolutely brilliant. I had no concern whatsoever on whether it was true to the novel at that point. I simply fell in love with a stunning movie that profoundly affected me. The love between Lizzy and Darcy was palpable, believable, visceral, and ardent – perfectly acted by Macfadyen and Knightley with an astounding chemistry. I just can’t say enough about how marvelous it was to me.
Few movies have touched me to this degree, but this one did and I refuse to allow any of the pointless debates ruin that for me.
Some movies just inspire people and you and I have chatted about the fact that you are an avid movie and television fan. What was it about that particular movie that inspired you to write your first P&P fanfic?
I honestly do think that much of it boils down to timing – and the existence of fan fiction. The stories that would previously swirl through my brain and weave in my dreams never found an outlet, and I did not have the time to take it the next step. Plus, it never occurred to me to do so! But now I am in a place in my life - with my kids being older and only working part-time - that allows me to plunge into what I originally saw as a fun hobby. The existence of JAFF gave me the idea, the incentive, the arena, and the audience.
However, it certainly was the passionate love story of Lizzy and Darcy that captured me! I am an avowed cinephile and I know a masterful movie when I see one. Joe Wright’s vision is astounding. He is incredibly gifted as a director and it shows in Pride & Prejudice. People who can’t see past the fact that it leaves novel parts out to appreciate the brilliance are sadly missing out, IMHO. There is no way that a half-hearted, light romantic comedy would have captured me the way this movie did.
I mean, you don’t see me writing Star Wars or Buffy fan-fic, and I knew that existed! I am more of a romantic at heart then I realized. I simply could not let go of these characters. They burrowed into my heart and I had to tell their tale. It was a drive and obsession that I was unable to ignore.
When and how did you start writing your novels - better known to your faithful readers as the Darcy Saga? What inspired you to write them?
I put these two questions together since the answers intertwine. It was over the Thanksgiving weekend of 2005 when I saw the movie. I was bewitched! Immediately I began weaving images, scenes, and conversations in my head that continued the story on. For as long as I can remember I have done this when particularly touched by a story, but it was never more than daydreams or something pleasant to help put me to sleep. To be honest I do not think it would have been different this time around if not for accidentally discovering the world of Jane Austen fan-fiction (JAFF). I was very excited, but my happiness soon diminished when I could not find an already written story that captured the happy-ever-after, true love, romantic life for Darcy and Lizzy that was daily cementing in my imagination. So, on a day somewhere in January of 2006 (I no longer remember exactly when) I sat down and started putting the images into words. My inspiration has never changed: I believe in marriage and joy therein; and I believe Miss Austen would have wanted that for her characters.
The 2005 Pride & Prejudice film adaptation version is your favorite - Why?
Well, this is an easy one for me! But, before I go further let me clarify in bold terms that just because my heart lies with the 2005 movie, that does not mean I disliked the 1995 BBC version! I honestly do not comprehend the ‘one or the other’ attitude that seems prevalent in some circles. Both adaptations have their virtues and criticisms. I have only seen these two versions of P&P, but I know many people who also enjoyed certain aspects of the 1980 miniseries and even the 1940 Lawrence Olivier movie! Heck, I even liked Elliot Cowan in the recent Lost in Austen play on P&P! The more the merrier as far as I am concerned.
Additionally, like it or not, the BBC miniseries was an adaptation of a novel same as all the rest. It was no more endorsed by a ghostly Austen with her benediction placed on Andrew Davies than was the movie version. I can’t argue that it followed the book closer, having 6+ hours to do so, but it is nonetheless an interpretation. Colin Firth is not Mr. Darcy, but merely an actor told to play him a certain way just as Matthew Macfadyen was!
Perhaps a portion of my love boils down to timing: I saw the movie version first. But, it is more than that. I am a passionate person. I prefer movies and books and TV shows that have sparkle, excitement, action, drama, feeling, etc. I want to be moved, touched in some way whether it is laughter or tears. If I am watching a love story, I want to see chemistry between the lovers. I want to believe that they are wildly, wantonly, crazily, deeply in love with each other. When they finally kiss, I need to hear the fireworks, to know that they are made-for-each-other, and will live happily-ever-after and defeat the odds.
I am a history buff so I love a good period-piece. Yet too often they are cleaned up and plodding; as if no one in the past ever got dirty or said an ill word or felt any emotion. Aside from this just not being historically accurate, it is boring! I instantly fell in love with the movie’s gritty realism in portraying the past. I was captivated by the stunning cinematography, the exalting music, the incredible acting, and the dazzling intensity. These people are REAL; they possess passion and a zeal for life. I can relate to them and wholeheartedly care about them. It is their story I wanted to tell. I am afraid that the miniseries fell flat for me on numerous counts, although, again, I reiterate that I did enjoy it very much. It simply did not stir my insides as the movie did.
I know you've answered this on your blog and site, but I'd really like to delve more into why you decided to focus so much on the 2005 movie version of Pride and Prejudice. I love that version myself, but why that one? Why not any of the others or even the book?
I am a visual person. I am also an emotive person. Passionate and full of life. I love the art of cinema. I adore reading, obviously, but as I read I automatically create the scene in my head. The film rolls as I read with as much vivid detail as the writer conveys. I enjoy all types of movies, but those special ones that transport me in some way, that capture my heart, that lift my soul, that make me feel something amazing are the ones that stick with me. I watch them over and over, just as I will read a favorite book over and over, with the effect not diminishing but instead growing.
Joe Wright’s masterpiece struck me in that way. I can’t completely explain it and I know some folks disagree, but I would be lying if I claimed otherwise. The 1995 miniseries was lacking, to me. Doesn’t mean I hated it, doesn’t mean I ignored the novel, and it doesn’t mean I disdain Jane Austen’s brilliance. But it was the movie adaptation that birthed this gift for writing that I know has been lurking within all my life. Should I just ignore that? Should I have turned away and never given my artistic vision to the huge number of my fans just because some people hated the movie?
You are correct that I have answered this question hundreds of times, but I do not mind clarifying. Of course, I know that there is the camp who will never agree with me as I will never comprehend their negativity. I just do not see it as a ‘one or the other’ proposition. I can’t wrap my head around why changing the proposal from the afternoon to sunrise is a heinous breach of sacred ground. If such slavish devotion to literary works were the law declared from on high, then we would have no stage plays and less than half the movies ever made. Thank God there are Joe Wrights, and even Andrew Davieses (Is wet shirt Mr. Darcy in the novel?), who are unafraid to face the ridicule for their art.
Would you say your versions of Darcy and Elizabeth match closer to the actors’ portrayal of the characters in the 2005 movie of Pride and Prejudice or to their personalities in Austen’s original writing?
Ah, the controversial question right off the bat! Let me see if I can answer without upsetting someone! I was inspired by the movie, absolutely, and I proudly proclaim this. So, yes, when I began writing it was with Keira Knightley’s and Matthew Macfadyen’s general appearance in mind, as well as how they were directed to portray Miss Austen’s written characters. That is where I fell in love with P&P. I adore Lizzy and Darcy in the movie! I fell utterly in love with them and wanted to tell their love story, even before I read the novel or watched the other versions. Therefore it is their story I am telling to a very large degree, yes.
The interesting aspect of this question, the unspoken assumption if you will, is that the characterization in Joe Wright’s adaptation is vastly different than how Austen wrote them. I do not agree with this opinion and here is why: Before I wrote one word, I scoured through dozens of Austen fan-sites where the debates and/or arguments regarding aspects of the text (including but not exclusively the characters’ personalities and motivations) were hashed over without agreement. After reading the source novel myself, reading tons of JAFF, and reading the endless forum discussions, it became clear to me that there was a wide variance in how folks interpreted details of the novel. Of course, this is normal, isn’t it? I know that when I reread a novel I always see something I never saw before, have a new revelation, or feel toward it in a way that is altered from how I felt before. And when I talk about a book or movie with someone else? Well, how often do two people see it precisely the same way? The point is, I love how the movie portrayed the novel – all of it – and although it was truncated and creatively rearranged, I do not think it missed the essence of Miss Austen’s novel or perverted the characters.
I view the two versions of Lizzy and Darcy from the 1995 and 2005 versions of P&P as essentially different couples. Do you think your novel would have been different if influenced by the 1995 version?
I agree with you about the couples. I also do not think it matters or that one version is correct over the other one. They are both a dramatization of a novel written by someone a long time ago who isn’t here to say precisely what she meant in every instance. But to answer your question without launching into a discussion I find boring, the truth is I never would have been so radically influenced by the 1995 series. That does NOT mean I dislike it! Not at all. I like it just fine and think that Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle were terrific as Darcy and Lizzy. However, the miniseries as a whole does not possess the fire, the passion, and the air of drama that I adore. Still, I do think Lizzy and Darcy, however they are presented on screen, were meant by Miss Austen to be content and happy in life. So, in that respect, I suppose I can say with confidence that I would have written them the same because it is how I imagine them to be.
Why do you prefer Matthew Macfadyen as Mr. Darcy over Colin Firth?
On a very superficial level, he is better looking! My humble opinion, but I know what kind of man stirs my innards and Matthew is that kind of man. I am not saying that Colin is not a handsome man. But he simply has never appealed to me in that melting, fluttering stomach way. Sorry, but there it is. Matthew is physically manlier. He has a presence on screen that screams strength and confidence and capability. The final kicker for me was when he strode across the misty moor. OMG! I defy any red-blooded woman to honestly admit that isn’t a knee weakening moment! Hands down it supplants Colin in a wet shirt.
Aside from his virility and masculinity that leapt off the screen, I adored the vulnerability and gentleness that was portrayed in the character of Mr. Darcy. I sensed early on that this was a man who was not deliberately arrogant, conceited, selfish, or hurtful. His pride and superior attitude made sense to me knowing the class structure of the era; yet I never felt that he was malicious in it. Matthew is very skilled at acting tough and sensitive at the same time. I was drawn to the complexity of a man that is accomplished, aristocratic, mature, and intelligent while also being introverted, awkward, hesitant, and reserved.
I truly sensed that he was profoundly affected by Lizzy. That his world was rocked by the love he gradually began to feel for her. I saw his character as not being changed because of his sentiments, but rather stabilized and completed. The innocence and confusion over his blossoming affection was marvelous to observe. Matthew conveyed the emotions of first love so beautifully.
How about the actresses to have portrayed Elizabeth Bennet. Who did you prefer Keira Knightley or Jennifer Ehle?
I actually did not mind Jennifer Ehle’s portrayal. She was very pretty, possessed the spunk and wit necessary for the role, and is an excellent actress. I do believe she was too old to adequately be the Lizzy Bennet of Austen’s novel, however, lending a maturity that I do not think a sheltered, country raised young woman of 19 would have possessed. Therefore, my favorite Lizzy is Keira.
She was 18 when she played Lizzy – Matthew also the correct age unlike Colin – and that youthfulness showed in how she was innocent and uncertain of herself; impetuously dashing into conclusions and circumstances as a reckless youth would do. She was witty, confident, and impertinent as we expect Lizzy to be, but with an air of impulsiveness and immaturity that I found appealing and believable. I love that Keira, although beautiful, is not physically voluptuous. She is feminine, graceful, and naively sensual – surely noticed by Darcy – but her forceful personality is what truly stands out. There was no doubt in my mind that although sexual attraction was certainly present (as it always is), Darcy was not driven by lust for her flesh, but for the vivacious person within.
Questions about my Saga: the thematic elements and plot
Can you tell us about your latest release “Mr. & Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy ~ Two Shall Become One”?
"Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy - Two Shall Become One" is the first volume of The Darcy Saga series. My sequel to the classic Jane Austen novel Pride and Prejudice is a very romantic and sensual but historically accurate and detailed tale of the marriage between Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy. This first novel begins immediately after the wedding and takes the reader on a relaxed, intimate journey through the first five months of marriage. This is a story of true love, of two people who are deeply committed to each other. They are wildly passionate for each other – so, yes, it is a sensual tale - but written with taste and beauty within the sanctity of marriage. I believe I have succeeded in creating a realistic rendering of how newlywed lovers grow in their relationship amid the realities of estate life in the early 1800s. My story is not about tossing trauma, hardship, or difficulties in between the Darcys, but in showing how they deal with life as a couple. The drama, when it rears its head,brings them closer together. In short, this is happily-ever-after!
It is important that prospective readers understand that this is a SAGA. I am telling a continuing drama of life as it is lived; both the ordinary and extraordinary, the mundane and the fantastic. It isn’t about one conflict or mystery or situation. It is written so that the reader is the proverbial fly-on-the-wall who is fortunate to observe and ride along during the day-to-day.
Your story is very much centered on the relationship between Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam. There are no bombshell plot twists, time travel, dark pasts, illegitimate children, etc. Some readers have been quite critical of that and have gone so far as to say that there is no plot in your book. What is your reaction to that criticism?
From a certain point of view I agree with them!
But first, let’s remember that the dictionary definition of ‘plot’ is: Storyline; the theme, plan, and sequence of events in a literary work. My tale isn’t typical, I know that. I would agree that most novels, of any genre, do have a single conflict/resolution type plot. But the problem I have with this critical attitude is that not ALL books follow the standard format. Many very successful literary geniuses on down through time have written books and series that have a saga type theme. Such as Laura Ingalls Wilder, Louisa May Alcott, John Jakes, Stephen King, Diana Gabaldon, and even Stephenie Meyer! Sci-fi/fantasy is replete with serial novels. How I approach my life for the Darcys isn’t a bizarre, untenable phenomenon.
Furthermore, I respond by saying that I have made my thematic plot/essence very clear. Anyone who buys my novel expecting major angst or a dastardly Mr. Darcy just isn’t paying attention! Every writer down through time has brought his or her unique perspective and voice to what they create. Rules are broken over and over, if they even truly exist at all, and thank God for that or all novels would be precisely the same! Why not a story that is mostly angst-free and sweet? Why shouldn’t a reader be able to curl up with an engaging, romantic tale that will bring them joy without pain? Aren’t these more valid questions?
Do you have a favorite scene in Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy?
Ooh, that is tough. I am still very proud of the entire wedding night. The blend of newness and familiarity, shyness and communication, humor and seriousness, all culminating in blissful bonding is written precisely as I imagined it. Another favorite is when Lizzy sneaks to Darcy’s office, reading his journals and examining his memorabilia. For me this was a pivotal moment when we see the deeper soul of Darcy. And then I really love the duel. My first action scene! I poured over my fantasy books and several movies to get a fresh feel for the moves, plus reading endless articles on historical duels, and learning about fencing! I did not take the decision to write a duel lightly, I assure you. It was wonderful fun and I think it turned out a nail-biter.
I have to admit the one bedroom scene about the feet...I could practically see the expressions on their faces. I could tell you put yourself into the making of this book. Can you share some with the readers a little about the story?
I love that you mention that moment! It is the first scene that danced through my head as the buried seed of my writing gift was germinated. The innocent, playful, yet sensual conversation and tone of their first day as a couple was a continual recording that I just could not stop until I wrote it down. That portion of the wedding night is virtually unchanged from when I wrote it over three years ago. Those beginning chapters, taken so leisurely, are the precise picture of what I have strived to create, especially in this first novel: An inside, very intimate, peek into the early weeks and months of these two beloved characters. I wanted to continue to live with them, to see how they matured, to be the close friend who is privy to it all. I suppose my writing was almost selfish in that respect. I did not want to let go! I had fallen completely in love with the Darcys and ‘Pride & Prejudice’ and I wanted to grant them the blessed life I believe we all secretly hope is the future for all our favorite lovers in cinema or literature.
I like the phrase ‘you put yourself into the making of this book.’ This is true, of course, for all artists. But for me I approached the Saga with logic, common sense, and pragmatism – these being traits inherent within me. I was never going for high drama, angst, or sensationalism. Rather I looked at the realities of how life would probably be if these were real people living in the early nineteenth century. I am also an optimist. I believe in love and happiness and marital affinity, and wanted to convey that hope. In a nutshell this is what I am aiming to present: Life lived abundantly.
Were there moments that grabbed you when you were writing the story and you were in awe? I know there were times those sensations hit me reading it.
I am not sure if this will sound bizarre, but here goes: There are occasions when I will read something I wrote and for a period of time I get so caught up into it that I forget they are my words! For a second I will be struck, as I am when reading other novels, then I will remember that I wrote it! An Intimate Conversation is one of those places. I knew I wanted to make Mr. Darcy a virgin, and I had logical reasons why this could be an option. But as he began to tell Lizzy his story, an entire history emerged that was deeper than I had anticipated. Those revelations of William’s became a cornerstone for the man he is in my saga, to the Darcy ancestry, the unique relationship he has with Georgiana and now Lizzy, and so much more.
In truth there are many moments for me. Sometimes it is a single line or brief conversation that I adore for its humor or enlightenment. I love the sentimental natures that I have given Lizzy and Darcy. I am a romantic at heart, so I do inject that into my characters. A few critics describe it as too flowery or lovey-dovey. I see it as two people revealing their souls and not afraid to be honest. Thus, I am very proud of Darcy’s warmth and Lizzy’s softening.
What do you hope readers take away from Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy?
Hope, belief, and faith that true love can be found and that marriage can be a wonderful, blessed relationship to possess. I never set out to make Lizzy and Darcy miserable. I wanted to give them what I imagined Jane planned for them: happiness. The subtitle is “Two Shall Become One” and should be a huge clue as to what my beliefs are.
I want young ladies to set their goals higher, thus waiting for the man who will cherish them as they should be cherished. I want to restore faith in others who are weary of the search for ‘Mr. Right.’ I want to show women how a decent relationship can be, if both parties strive for it and place the other person first. And yes, I wanted to show two people who are completely committed, crazy in love, and sexually fulfilled so that readers can aim for the same! I have found that in my nearly twenty-three year marriage to my own Mr. Darcy, so know that it is attainable.
But mostly, I just want the reader to have a good time. This is a book you can curl up with, tea and chocolates near at hand, and know you will feel happy while reading.
How did you come up with the Darcy Saga title?
Around the time I was contemplating creating my own website to post my chapters on, rather than posting them on group forums, someone jokingly referred to the 13 or so chapters I had at the time as a ‘saga.’ I wish I could remember who that person was! I thought it was very funny. I did not at that time imagine I would still be writing all these years later with 3 complete novels under my belt! Calling it a ‘Saga’ was more of a saucy, tongue-in-cheek expression and sounded better than titling my website Sharon’s Place or some other inane phrase!
It did not take me long, however, before I realized the name fit the monster epic I was creating. A saga is defined as a form of novel in which the members or generations of a family or social group are chronicled in a long and leisurely narrative. Since this is precisely what I am striving to achieve, the word is perfect. My novels are not typical in having one plot of conflict and resolution, but are thematic, just as a saga is supposed to be. Now I love the appellation and can’t imagine ever not having The Darcy Saga as part of the package, and as my website name.
It's pretty obvious throughout the book that you personally have a strong faith in God. What made you decide to focus on some of the religious aspects, especially in regards to Mr. Darcy?
In one respect it came naturally out of my faith and convictions. I desired a content life for Darcy and Lizzy; a marriage of bliss, passion, understanding, and so on – attributes and goals that I personally believe are attainable within marriage. A marriage can have those things apart from the couple being Christian, but I know that marriage was initiated by God and thus if the Bible says it is possible then I believe it!
Nevertheless, I did not set out to write a ‘Christian novel’ and I do not think it fits that category. My decision to write Darcy as a man with a strong faith was more logical than out of a desire to preach. Religion, as helmed by The Church of England, was a serious part of life in the past. The movements of men like the Wesley Brothers, the convictions of men like William Wilberforce, and the influence of the Church on government are all a part of history that cannot be denied. Why not have the Darcy family be serious about religion and supporters of the Church? It was far more the norm than not and you see those moral beliefs all through Miss Austen’s books, her own faith and upbringing an influence on her writing.
Do you believe in Happily Ever After?
I do indeed! I know from experience that life is not all hearts and roses day in and day out. But I also know from experience that marital happiness, affinity, bonding, and passionate love can survive and flourish. I have 23 years of marriage to prove it! The question really should be: Why does one NOT believe in happily ever after? I too often receive criticism that my Lizzy and Darcy are too romantic, even though they are only married for 5 months in the first novel! How sad that the expectation is that they should be fighting, miserable, and bored with each other before the honeymoon is over. What does it say about us as a society that an endearment or expression of love to our soulmate is deemed annoying, pathetic, and unrealistic? We have lost the hope of happiness with our lover, and I think that tragic.
Questions about my characters
The relationship you created between Lizzy and Darcy was so idyllic and sweet. I have read some sequels where they are constantly squabbling and causing a ruckus. What was your inspiration for this?
There are many reasons for this choice. First, I truly do believe a couple can live in general harmony without constant bickering. It isn’t that I believe Lizzy and Darcy never argue; I show them conflicting from time to time, or refer to an argument. I simply prefer not to make that the focus of the story. If they do quarrel, I explain how they overcome that with open conversation and the deep respect they possess for each other. Love conquers all, I suppose you could say. Additionally, this first novel is set during the definite honeymoon period. Not sure about you, but I wasn’t spending lots of time fighting with my new husband when there were far more pleasurable things to do!
Logically I looked at the realities of life for the Darcys. I mean, what are they going to tussle over? Finances? He leaves the toilet seat up or she doesn’t pick up her clothes? Mother-in-law woes when Mrs. Bennet is 150 miles by a carriage drive away? Hopefully they learned the hard lessons of how hostility leads to unwarranted anguish and would avoid unnecessary dissention.
Historically this was an age - we are lead to believe - when propriety, decorum, manners, respect, and so forth were the common practice. I can’t see a gentleman of Darcy’s statue lacing into his wife. Nor would a wife, even one as spunky as Lizzy, be ridiculing or insolent toward her husband.
And, considering the majority of sequels and variations are all about the two of them facing endless traumas, both outwardly inflicted and due to personality clashes, why not have at least one that is cheery and optimistic? If a person wants a story that has Lizzy and Darcy in misery and turmoil they are in luck because there are a ton of them.
Do you use the love for your husband as inspiration for the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy?
Absolutely! I truly do have a wonderful marriage. No lie! We have been together for 23 years now and although I would be fibbing if I claimed it has always been blissful, we are still very much in love. He is extremely romantic - flowers, dinners out, massages, the whole bit - as well as sensual, supportive, demonstrative, effusive, and more. He reminds me every day that I am not writing a fantasy relationship. Personally, I have come to believe that people who criticize me for writing the Darcys' relationshipas gushy, romantic, and sexually fulfilling are just jealous!
In your opinion, what is it about Mr. Darcy that makes women want him so much?
I could write an entire thesis on this. Good thing you stressed ‘my opinion’ because if there is one incontrovertible fact I have learned it is that no one agrees on who Mr. Darcy is! Oh, everyone thinks they got him wired and are dogmatic in their interpretation being the only one Austen would agree with. But line up 100 women and I can guarantee you they will all say something different.
I didn’t approach my story with a life-long crush on the Mr. Darcy mystique. Some think that fact means I shouldn’t touch him at all, but I disagree. I had no pre-conceived ideas of The Man. I judged my interpretation on first impressions enhanced by my own reading of the novel, without the endless debates and philosophical dissections clouding my judgment. In the end I took my heart’s impressions, using the raw material so to speak, and enhanced Mr. Darcy to be the man I wanted him to be.
For me it wasn’t the idea of Lizzy’s persuasion somehow changing this arrogant jerk into Mr. Wonderful. Not at all! I saw Darcy, as portrayed in the movie and understood further in my own reading, as fairly fantastic already, but misconstrued. Why else would our heroine realize she loved him? I am personally much more intrigued by a man who is independent and balanced all on his own without needing me to fix him. My knowledge of history involving the landed gentry of that day coupled with the hints we have of Mr. Darcy as Master of Pemberley, lead to the conclusion that he was a strong, capable, respected, decent man. Add to that the reticent intensity, stunning handsomeness, raging virility, and massive pocketbook, and you pretty much have a perfect package!
You were so successful at creating the character of Lord Orman. I got the creepy chills every time he appeared in the novel. What was your influence for him?
Thank you! Wouldn’t it be a great story if I could say I knew someone like that? Ha! Alas, he came out of the recesses of my mind and I have no idea how! Darcy is so prim, proper, and morally upright that it made logical sense to give him a foil. I did not want to fall back on the standard Wickham plotline, so I created a new scoundrel and made him even worse. He was originally thrown in just to add a little spice to the Masque. But the more I thought about him, I realized he was too good to just toss away – a ready plot device just waiting to happen. I do not want to give too much away, but let’s just say that a good villain should always be kept lurking in the background somewhere.
Do you find yourself having conversations with your characters in your head?
The characters never talk TO me, but they do talk amongst themselves in my head! Whole conversations and scenes have played out in my dreams or while I am doing something mundane like vacuuming.
Do your characters ever wake you up in the middle of the night and insist you write?
Indeed they do! Quite rude of them to not appreciate that a 20-year veteran of 12-hour night shifts needs her beauty rest! Usually I tell them to go away so I can sleep, but sometimes the scene is so vivid that I do have to get up, stalk through the dark house, disturb the cat who thinks he rules the nighttime, and jot it down.
You have created several characters in your sequel. Which one is your favorite?
My absolute favorite does not appear until the next book, so be sure to ask me this question then! As for Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy, that is a little tougher since most of the characters are from the source novel, seen briefly, or servants. Hmmm… I am very proud of how I enhanced the character of Colonel Fitzwilliam. He is very minor in Austen’s book. I expanded him, gave him a background, and made him fun. I really love him!
In this novel I created several friends of Darcy whose wives become friends to Lizzy. I love Amelia Lathrop, the sassy Scottish lass that visits over Christmas. And I love Harriet Vernor. I love her dry wit and irreverence that instantly appeals to Lizzy. And, to my own surprise as the saga unfolded, I really grew to love Samuel and Marguerite, the personal servants to Mr. and Mrs. Darcy. They took over to a large degree, exerting themselves until I finally gave them the spotlight more. *hints of what is to come* Some of my characters can be SO pushy!
Questions about writing fan fiction
What made you want to write fan fiction?
Strangely enough, I did not think about it as writing ‘fan fiction’ per se. Obviously my novels are fan fiction, in the strictest definition of the phrase, but I was merely desiring to tell a story of happily-ever-after and committed love. The dreams and after-stories that would dance through my brain upon reading or watching an intriguing story was a common phenomenon all my life. The pre-existence of Jane Austen fan fiction gave me the place to share my first attempts in writing those visions into something coherent. The love story of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet was my inspiration. As with other ideas that have occurred to me from time to time, it was being touched by something profound and beautiful that opened the door. It was the yearning to elaborate upon their relationship, and keep the warm sentiments going that truly set me on this path.
How much has fan fiction influenced your writing?
The greatest influence was simply its existence. Without the presence of so many JAFF websites with the vast variety of styles, I never would have gone down the road nor had the nerve to post my story in the first place. I already had sequel scenes swirling through my head, so when I began reading it was in a search to find what I was looking for. Along the way, even though I did not find a story that completely captured the happy-ever-after vision in my mind, I grew to appreciate the plethora of behind the scenes, fill in the blanks, variations, and even some modern and alternate-universe type tales. For the most part they are all written with love of Austen and the desire to keep the characters alive as the prime instigation. Everyone has their own spin on how the characters act/react, and that diversity gave me courage to approach my story in the way I was inspired to do.
When you first began writing was your intention to write just a one-shot story or an epic?
Oh, I was completely flying by the seat of my pants! I fully expected to be laughed off the website I posted at and was shocked when the response was overwhelmingly positive. I had no plans, no goals, and no thoughts beyond the wedding night. No one was more surprised than me when the visions kept popping into my brain! After covering the first two days of the Darcys’ marriage, I backtracked to their engagement months and wrote 2 short stories. Both are now incorporated into the saga, but aside from that detour I continued on in a chronological fashion. I was probably well into the thirty-something chapter before I finally admitted to myself that I had no desire to stop. The epic was born by then, my muse had taken control, the ‘hobby’ was an obsession, and there was nothing I could do to halt the tide!
When you first wrote and posted your novels as a series of stories on your website, did you ever think or imagine it would get so many devoted readers/fans/followers not too mention traffic on your old website and get them to be published?
Absolutely not! I was pleased with the chapters/short-stories I had written. I would never have posted something that I did not believe was properly done and entertaining. I assumed that if I desired a happy-ever-after life for Lizzy and Darcy then surely there must be others who wished for the same. Even so, I was amazed by the outpouring and constantly increasing readership. However, it would be months before I recognized the potential for publication.
Questions about Jane Austen
If Jane Austen had written a sequel to Pride and Prejudice, what do you think she would have written?
You know, I really have no idea! Of course, neither does anyone else, do they? I am quite sure she would not relate their bedroom activities, so I can see why some are squeamish about that. But I do think she would want them to be happy, however one defines that. Clearly she saw a difference in the marriages of people like Mr. and Mrs. Bennet compared to the Gardiners. She was not against marriage, so why does it have to contain constant squabbling and ruckus, to quote you?
Her books were about the normal aspects of life during the times. The drama was rather sedate for the most part. It pertained to misunderstands, meddling individuals, societal mores, and so on. Few kidnappings or wild horse chases or life threatening situations!
Had you read some (or all) of Jane Austen novels prior to writing the Darcy Saga?
My experience with Jane Austen was limited to the movie versions of Sense and Sensibility and Emma, and the modern adaptations like Bridget Jones’ Diary and Clueless. I had heard of her, knew that she was a classic English novelist, but had never picked up a book. Not really sure why except that I leaned toward fantasy in my reading material. When I walked into the theater to watch Pride & Prejudice I was an utter ignorant. I knew very little of the general story having never read the book or seen the BBC miniseries. I mean, everyone has heard of Mr. Darcy, but other than vague sketches and references to Colin Firth in a wet shirt, I was clueless!
By the time I finally sat down and began writing what was to become my Saga, I had seen more Austen adaptations and read the original novel. I have seen a number of critics state that I did not read the novel, even going so far as to assert the lie that I claim this myself. Let me be clear: I have read the novel, several times!
So, yes I did have that knowledge by the time I wrote anything, but I was far from an Austen expert and my heart was firmly captured by the movie’s presentation. It still is. However, I have now immersed myself in the world of Austen, been living and breathing the Regency, and haunted and memorized more websites on the subject than most folks know exist for over three years. I think that makes me highly knowledgeable on the topic!
What do you like most about Jane Austen’s writing?
She had an amazing command of language. I have been an avid reader all my life and I adore vocabulary and the magic witnessed in how different authors weave words together into something special and profound. Jane Austen does that brilliantly. I love that her stories are primarily about relationships. Action and adventure has its place, certainly, and we all love a thriller. But Jane wrote about people. She wrote about interactions, conversations, family, society, and friendships. I have the same approach in my novels. She pointed out the foibles in human nature and the faults of her characters, but never in a mean-spirited way. Ultimately her novels are about happiness, finding one’s peace in life, and being uplifted.
What has the reaction been from fans of Jane Austen?
Mixed, to be honest. The vast majority, I am happy to say, are very excited about continuing the Darcys’ story in the vein I write it, i.e.- a generally angst-free, sensual, intimate offering of true love and happiness. I have received literally hundreds of emails, comments in my forum, and reviews from delighted fans all over the world. The support has been phenomenal. The sheer volume tells me that most readers/lovers/watchers of Jane’s stories are open-minded, accepting, positive, and hungry for her legacy to continue.
Questions about my writing
How long have you been writing?
It was somewhere in January of 2006 when I first started typing the initial short stories of Jane Austen fan fiction that would eventually become my monster saga, the first volume now published! Pretty quickly, I suppose, but then I live in a STAT environment so it seems natural to me. Patience is a virtue I still struggle with, I suppose one could say.
When writing, who speaks to you more clearly – Darcy or Elizabeth?
Strangely, it is Darcy. I suppose that is because I am like him. I understand his character as I too am shy, uncomfortable in unfamiliar crowds, and bad at casual conversation! I am quiet and reserved. I am much more relaxed with a few close friends or just alone with a book in my hand. His character, as portrayed in the movie especially, called to me. Perhaps some of that is my empathy as well. I felt sorry for Darcy. He struck me as this sad individual that not only needed to be brought down a peg or two, but also needed the love of a good woman! I really adore his mixture of strength and intelligence, with softness and humor.
What was the hardest part of writing your book? Easiest?
Although I did not realize it when I started this venture, the hardest part is emotionally dealing with the too often hateful attitude among the Austen purists who despise anyone touching Jane or have rigid conceptions of how it ‘must be.’ I had no idea that attempting to humbly give her creations additional life for fans of all kinds to enjoy was considered taboo. Criticism is rough. I now know it is part of the process and my shell is thicker, but I do wish people would think twice before they cruelly attack with their words.
The easiest part is the writing itself! I have hit a few blocks, but for the most part it has been effortless and incredibly fun. It is natural, and a tremendous joy, to create this happy existence for the Darcys.
What is your favorite aspect of writing? Least favorite?
My favorite is the research. I have always adored history, so delving into a past world is marvelous. Secondly it is the language. I do not claim to attempt an Austen-style, but I am crazy about vocabulary and a well-written page. I prefer reading a book that makes me think, that draws me in with vivid descriptions, and that captures me as if I am standing right there. The thrill in accomplishing this with my words is incredible. Thirdly it is pleasing the fans of this timeless love story who never tire of journeying with the Darcys.
There truly is nothing about writing itself that I dislike. Except that I find less and less time to be able to do it! I suppose it is the work required to publish, maintain a website, correspond with fans, market, and even write guest blogs that, although wonderful and amazing and fun in its own right, is also time-consuming and not exactly relished. It keeps me from doing what I desire to be doing 24/7: Write! The proverbial catch-22 I guess.
What do you think is the greatest creative risk you've taken?
Writing in the first place! I am still scratching my head in bafflement as to how this has happened. I remember enjoying the obligatory college research papers and English compositions, was actually really good at it, but never translated that into having a gift for writing. Too focused on my nursing career and then raising a family to think of creativity. So, taking the leap from swirling visions and conversations in my mind to putting them into words, and then posting it on the internet for all to see….Yikes! That was scary.
During the course of writing my Darcy Saga, I have forced myself out of the comfort zone many times. I have a perverse attraction to a challenge! Guess that is why I work in an intensive care unit! Writing action sequences, such as a duel that takes place in Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy, was a challenge. All along I have striven to stretch myself beyond just writing about the main lovers. I think this is more evident in the volumes beyond my first novel as the Darcys travel away from Pemberley. Action and encounters vary widely with the diversity of peoples and situations immense.
What is your greatest weakness in writing dialogue?
Finding the balance between making it essential to the story and keeping it natural. By that I mean I want to avoid inane conversation that serves no purpose, so I try to have a focus or direction to the dialogue. However, random discourse is a normal part of life! In order to maintain the essence of my tale - i.e., a life being lived - I have to provide the mundane, even if that is pointless. On the other hand, I love all my characters so much that sometimes it is fun to just let them out of their cages now and again! Let them speak, laugh, tell jokes, pontificate, whatever. But if I am not careful they will take over the scene and before I know it they have been chatting for pages with nothing of any use having been said! Some of them are horrid show-offs, so I have to rein them in and remember what the intention of the scene was. See, balance.
What makes a great (written) bedroom scene?
Ha! Good thing you clarified the ‘written’ part!! Obviously folks differ in what they want to read in erotic scenes, so I can only speak for my preference. For me it is the emotion that is attached to the act itself that is central. I figure my readers know the mechanics and body-part names, so I have no need to get too specific! LOL. Whether Lizzy and Darcy are caught up in sheer animal lust, feeling frisky and silly, or experiencing a deeply bonding lovemaking session, my goal is for the reader to appreciate the interlude for what it signifies – that is, the exceptional relationship these two people possess. I do not add bedroom scenes for gratuitous titillation, but to convey the amazing love, marital affinity, and supreme happiness that Lizzy and Darcy have found with each other. And, hopefully, thus instill faith that it can happen for the reader.
What is your writing process like?
I just recently learned that I am a 'panster' - that is, I write by the seat of my pants.I have seen that term thrown about but did not really know what it meant. Basically I write as it comes to me in a generally chronological manner, but I do not tie myself to a strict word count or concise ‘beginning-middle-end’ type plot. From the beginning I was taking it one day at a time, literally, traveling with the Darcys through life and allowing my instinct and research to guide me. I am writing a thematically plotted story. I know where I am going, but how I get there or what may occur before the end goal is a mystery. As I research the Regency Era and the history involved, ideas will occur. I do take some notes from time to time, especially when I have vivid dreams of great conversations or scenes playing out. But usually I sit at the computer with a vague idea of where I am going next, and just let the inspiration hit me as I type. When I do have an ultimate plan or result in mind (and I frequently do) I keep it loose, letting inspiration lead me along to how I want it to end.
Where is your favorite place to write?
I have two places and it depends on what is going on around the house. I use a laptop, so it is easy to move around to fit my needs. There is my very comfortable leather recliner in the living room that is a wonderful place if the family is gone. No distractions!Or if I am just messing around, doing research, etc., I can watch TV with them and not be too disturbed. But, if it is too noisy and I really need to concentrate, I move to my bedroom where I have a spacious desk and ergo chair. The truth is that when I am seriously in writer's mode I have been known to write anywhere! Moving car, tiny trailer while on vacation,hotel room, patio, you name it.
One of the things I really liked about the book was the "visual" aspect to it. Do you find yourself to be a visual person? Or are you a verbal or tactile kind of person?
I am very visual. Even in my nursing career I learn and remember if I can get my hands on it and do it. I love reading a novel where the descriptions are clear. I want to know what they are seeing, what the air feels like, what smells there are, etc. Anything that adds to the impression of the scene. Of course, one can get carried away with detailed descriptiveness, so I have to rein it in at times. But I very much wanted the reader to experience what Lizzy and Darcy are experiencing, and to fully do that one has to ‘see’ the surroundings as clearly as possible.
Do you belong to a critique group? If so, how does this help or hinder you?
Not a critique group in the typical sense. I began my writing road by posting on several Jane Austen Fan-fiction sites before finally creating my own website and posting there. In the process, before I published, I amassed an enormous readership. Many of them have been very vocal in telling me what was good or bad! All of it, whether meant to assist or criticize, has helped me tremendously. Now I have a selection of trusted friends who are my beta-readers for new material.
What did you find most challenging in writing this novel?
Initially it was finding the balance between creating characters that were my own ideals while also holding true to what Miss Austen wrote. It was imperative to me to present Lizzy, Darcy, and all the others as how I imagined them to be. After all, this is my story now, and these characters are growing and evolving as we all do when life progresses and events alter us. Nevertheless, Austen created them, and I have never taken that for granted or shoved it aside. Realizing that I was never going to please everyone and myself at the same time was tough, but eventually I learned to accept the reality of how it has to be for every person who tackles fan fiction.
Secondly it was the research. Studying history itself is natural for me as I love it and am a scholar at heart. But I quickly realized the importance of getting every nuance, historical fact, geographical locale, clothing item, servant duty, and so on precisely right. It hasn’t always been easy, but I have worked tremendously hard to showcase the Regency world. In fact, I consider the backdrop of Georgian England with all its details as much a star character of my saga as the people who populate it!
Do you plan to branch out to other historical fiction or will you stay with the Darcy saga?
For now I am sticking with the Saga. However, I am always open to whatever path inspiration takes me down. And, in some respects I am branching out. For instance, I am working on a novel about Georgiana Darcy that, although about a Darcy and considered a part of my Darcy Saga, actually takes place in France during the post-Napoleonic Empire. It is a love story, but rich in the history of the times. I also plan to write a story focusing on Kitty Bennet someday, which will take me in another direction as well. My dream novel will be set in India during the late 1700s - if I ever get that far along in my career! Lots of ideas swirling in the wee-brain!
Questions about being published
How did Sourcebooks (your book publisher) find out about your novels?
My research into the business had revealed that there were very few publishing houses willing to look at manuscripts from un-agented authors. After several months of attempting, and failing, to acquire a literary agent, I turned to the option of self-publishing. I decided to proceed with that process, see how sales went, and maybe at a later date approach the independent publishing houses. Or retry enticing an agent. At that point I was content to accept my limitations and be happy with what I was able to accomplish.
However, as I was finishing up the touches on my Lulu.com version, a dear friend of mine named Simone told me that Linda Berdoll had published through Sourcebooks and that they accepted queries without an agent! To be honest, I expected nothing. After so many rejections it seemed like a tremendous long shot. But, I sent a letter and the first few chapters to Deb Werksman, promptly pushing it to the back of my mind as a probable waste of my time!
What was your first reaction when Sourcebooks first contacted you?
Here is an interesting story! Nearly two months had passed since I sent my manuscript to Deb Werksman. My POD was selling very well, and I was learning to be content with what fate apparently had planned for me. On the day that Deb called me I was asleep, having worked the night before. My husband just happened to come home that day for lunch, something he rarely did, and he noticed a phone message flashing. It was from Deb! He immediately woke me up – so much for being rested that night – and thrust the already ringing phone into my sleepy hands. The first words out of Deb’s mouth were, “I read the first few chapters of Two Shall Become One and I had to call you right away. I loved it and I want to publish your book!”
I later had to apologize to Deb for being loopy and a bit hysterical (she completely understood). It was one of the most amazing moment in my life; one that I shall never forget. My reaction? Disbelief, shock, giddiness, vindication, pride, happiness, amazement…..
Writing a book is only the beginning of the journey. How extensive, time consuming, and frustrating was your editing process? Did you feel that working with editors made your book stronger and tighter, or did you pretty much have it down?
Boy, you are right about writing just being the beginning! I am very blessed to have a wonderful editor. She and I talked many times, at length, about our individual goals for my first novel. In the beginning phases she questioned everything, and I will admit that it was annoying at times! Eventually she learned to appreciate my style and to have faith in the research I had done. At the same time, she had marvelous instincts about certain parts and I learned to have faith in her. The rewriting was minimal, but in each case I found that going back and revisiting an area made it better - even when I thought it just fine before! It was a working, compromising relationship that paid off. For my second novel I did not have to rewrite one single thing and the editing was miniscule.I spend a great deal of time going over each and every line because I am a perfectionist, but actual time spent in editing "Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy"would amount to a handful of days only.
How do you feel about reviews?
Are you trying to get me in trouble? LOL! I love it when they are great and hate it when they are bad. It hurts, no lie. It isn’t that I think my story so perfect that everyone in the world should adore it. Reading tastes differ, obviously. But I have read some truly heinous books in my day and KNOW my novel does not rank in that crowd! Reviewers too often seem bent on finding fault. I think it rather sad actually, as I believe some have lost the ability to just enjoy a novel despite a few flaws. Not every novel written is going to win a Pulitzer or be remembered a hundred years from now, but that does not mean it isn’t excellent and worthy of being enjoyed. I am not sure how closely the average reader looks at reviews, but I wonder if some reviewers forget that a mediocre rating may turn a potential reader away. For instance, I have gotten a handful of 3-star ratings when the actually written review was glowing with no negative comments! That brings the overall total down, possibly scaring a buyer away who would have loved my book. The worst, however, are the blatant exaggerations and/or lies. And I must be silent as it is considered wrong to respond while a person abuses my hard work. Very odd to me, but this is how it goes.
Questions about my research
Where do you get your ideas for your books?
It seems to be a combination of ideas sprung from the extensive research I do and other ideas that magically materialize! I never really know when something is going to literally flash through my brain.More often than I can remember I have devised whole plots while asleep. Dreams have lead to a wealth of great scenes. I have also stumbled across really interesting historical facts that I just HAVE to write in, leading to some fabulous stuff! Just you wait and see.
What kind of research did you do for this book? Did you enjoy the research process?
I adore the research! It is almost the best part. History has always been a passion for me. So much so that I often get lost in reading about some obscure fact, completely forgetting what I was looking for in the first place. Primarily I turn to the internet, scouring and bookmarking hundreds of websites covering the Regency/Georgian era of England and anything else I need to know. Jane Austen’s novel is invaluable, of course, and I have several other reference books on etiquette and society of the day.
Do you have to do much research on your books?
An incredible amount. First off I had to learn about the Regency and Jane Austen, that an ongoing lesson! Everything from the clothing, furnishings, money, manners, etc. to clarifying the details and personalities as written by her had to be my foundation. I do move the characters forward, have them grow, add my own spin to them, and set them in a later Regency year (1816) than Jane wrote, but the base is in the facts.
Then I had to study England – a country I have never been to – from every aspect imaginable, 200 years ago. It has always been vitally important to me to have the Era, history, landscape, economy, society, lifestyle, inventions, etc. be as important a character as the people running about. And absolutely precise in the dates and such.
Then there is the language. I have never tried to duplicate Austen in my writing as that is impossible, and anyone who thinks they do is lying to themselves, IMO. However, I take inordinate pains to carefully word each sentence in an elegant, intelligent manner that is also easy to read. I cannot research every single word, but I vigorously employ a dozen vocabulary sources to be as authentic as possible. Since I adore both history and vocabulary, these tasks are delightful if a bit daunting at times.
How did you go about researching your novel to continue the story of the Darcys?
First I read the original novel, many times. I scoured through dozens of fan websites and blogs, reading all the discussions and articles about Jane Austen and her books. I spent hours reading fan-fiction of all types. Together this gave me the background; the information I needed to decide how I wanted to approach the life and characters of the Darcys. At the same time I was immersing myself in reams of text about the history, the Regency Era, the English countryside, societal mores, and so on. My internet bookmarked section grew and grew! I have always loved history so learning about a period I knew little of was wonderful and utterly captivating.
I never wrote anything without checking and crosschecking the facts. As much as my story is about the marriage and life of the Darcys and their friends, it is also about England at the time. As I said, this is a realistic accounting of how it was. For this reason I delve into the industrial advances, the lifestyle, common entertainments, how an estate was managed, the servants, the layout of the Manor, and so on. Even single words were frequently verified for proper timeline etymology. I take the research very seriously since one of the main points of my saga is historical accuracy and true early nineteenth century life.
How much of your time is spent in research?
An enormous amount. I really could not say exactly, but I do know that I have gotten lost, frequently, for hours as I read through page after page of text. The number of websites I have bookmarked is phenomenal. I never take one slip of information, but always cross-check, dozens of times. Luckily I adore history and am a stickler for the facts, so it is never a burden. Additionally, my passion for understanding the Era and digging exhaustively has lead to me discovering a slew of historical tidbits that have ended up being whole sections or chapters! For instance, as I researched Christmas customs of the day I read about masquerade balls being a very popular way to celebrate Twelfth Night. From that came dancing the waltz, a way to introduce the citizens of Derbyshire, and the ominous encounter with the Marquis of Orman. Are you intrigued?
Questions about what I read
As an author, you must be an avid reader. What books do you enjoy reading? Who are your auto-buy authors?
I have been reading for as long as I can remember. In fact, I do not remember learning to read - true story - and have been tackling two-inch thick books since I was a young kid. As a reader my preferred genre is fantasy; it is far and away my favorite type of story and has been since I read The Hobbit when I was 12. I immediately followed with “The Lord of the Rings,” and that was it! I am eclectic and will read just about anything if it is recommended to me or sounds good, but I love fantasy the best. Naturally Tolkien, then David Eddings, Terry Pratchett, Barbara Hambly, Anne McCaffrey, JK Rowling, Stephenie Meyer, Terry Brooks, and the list goes on indefinitely.
What books are on your keeper shelf?
All of the ones listed above. Stephen King's “The Stand” and Gunslinger series. Anything by Taylor Caldwell. Robert Ludlum's Bourne series. John Jakes “Kent family Chronicles” series. “Centennial”by James Michener and “Shogun” by Clavell. I better stop since my 'keepers' currently inhabit 4 stuffed bookshelves in my house!
Do you read books other than romance books?
Primarily, yes. I went through a romance phase in high school and college, and still have a small collection of Judith Krantz, Victoria Holt, and Mary Stewart. But I had not picked up anything in the ‘romance’ section of the store for some 20 years until my sister got me hooked on Diana Gabaldon. Even then it was because I thought it more historical with fantasy elements due to the time-traveling. But I realized that romance as a genre had advanced into realms I appreciate. So now I am delighting in the various paranormals that are popular as well as a few contemporaries. Ever desiring to broaden my horizons!
What was the first romance book you read?
In my younger years it was probably something by Danielle Steele or a Harlequin lying around my grandmother’s house! I truly do not remember as it was never a favored genre, I confess with a cringe. Of course, many of my childhood favorites, such as “Little Women” and even the Little House on the Prairie series have romantic elements to them. In recent years it was “Outlander” by Diana Gabaldon (which I personally still feel is mis-classified) and then “Line of Scrimmage” by Marie Force. Marie is a friend and fellow Sourcebooks’ author, but her novel is fantastic. I am methodically working my way through the novels offered by my group of friends, and they are all terrific. Next is to expand beyond my friends, but so much time is spent writing my own books that I do not have as much time to read as I used to! Rather tragic, but one pays the price.
What book(s) were life changing for you?
The only book that has truly been ‘life changing’ for me is the Bible. I am a devout Christian, and as such I do not believe anything could possibly affect me more! Many books have impacted me in one way or another, however. I remember reading The Hobbit when I was 12, followed right after by the Arthurian trilogy by Mary Stewart. Those combined to send me on a life-long love affair with everything fantasy. My love of history was birthed by such authors as John Jakes, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Margaret Mitchell, and James Mitchener, to name a few. Through their stories I realized history could be intriguing and fun, a goal I aim for in my books.
Who is your favorite author?
It is a tie between JRR Tolkien and David Eddings. Tolkien is the master of fantasy to be sure, but Eddings has created a stunning world with wildly diverse characters and great humor. Other honorable mentions go to JK Rowling, Stephenie Meyer, Raymond Feist, Robert Ludlum, John Jakes, Barbara Hambley, Anne McCaffrey (best dragons), Terry Goodkind, Stephen King (The Stand is a classic), Terry Pratchett, and Ken Follett just to skim the surface. Childhood favs are Laura Ingalls Wilder and Louisa May Alcott. For gothic romance I adore Mary Stewart and Victoria Holt, and of course Agatha Christie is the queen of the murder mystery! I truly do have very eclectic tastes and will give just about anything a try.
Questions about me!
Describe Sharon Lathan in three words.
Compassionate. Saved. Tenacious.
How do you define love?
Love is a feeling. But not primarily that. As the Bible teaches, love is about reaching beyond the emotions of the moment to the deeper foundations. Commitment to the person you love no matter what emotion you are experiencing at the time is a key factor. It is unconditional. We love our kids no matter how bratty they may be acting because there is a bond between us that is unbreakable. It can, and should, be the same for our life partner.
Love is selfless. Humans are inherently selfish creatures. But, we also divinely have the infinite capacity to open our hearts to others; to share of ourselves; to need that connection. To lose oneself, to sacrifice our desires and comforts, to give in order to please the one we love is the greatest blessing and joy.
What is the craziest thing you have ever done?
Crazy and Sharon Lathan really do not go together at all. What daredevil instincts I ever possessed have dissipated with adulthood. When I was young, growing up in the mountains, I was quite the tomboy. Very little frightened me or gave me pause. Hmm…maybe I should think on that a bit! LOL! Not sure what happened to me, but somewhere along the line timidity and extreme caution became the norm.
Can you tell us your best fan encounter story?
I have so many! I shared my story for over a year as web-based fan-fiction, accumulating a large readership. Many of those women have become dear friends. I have a Dutch buddy who is as dear to me as a sister, despite having never met face-to-face, and it was she who encouraged me to approach Sourcebooks. Then there is my Australian compadre who is saving an umbrella’d spot on a Sydney beach for the day we finally get to chill. So far, sadly, I have only met two of my closest and longest readers and friends: Jen from Montana who visited with me at Disneyland, and May from Scotland who came to the US early this year! Nothing is dearer to me than the friendships I have made through my writing. But, I am still waiting with semi-bated-breath for the day some total stranger recognizes me on the street!
What are your thoughts when it comes to fans? Do you prefer to keep some distance between them and you or do you find yourself being pretty open?
I love my fans! The best part of this whole writing experience has been the incredible people I have ‘met,’ many of whom are now dear friends that I know I shall have for life. I never tire of hearing how my story has pleased someone. That is partially why I write, to bring entertainment and some degree of joy to others. Connecting with folks from all over the world is phenomenal.
But of course that openness can come with a price. I have been deeply hurt a few times and disappointed many times due to my expectations of returned sentiments and support that never comes. I am very generous with my fans, perhaps too much so, and I ask for very little in return. I am the type of person who feels deeply and thus I am wounded easily.
If you could be one of the characters from this book – Who would you be? And why?
Well, doesn’t everyone want to be Lizzy Bennet-now-Darcy? Ah, to be so quick-witted, spunky, impertinent AND married to the insanely rich, handsome Mr. Darcy! Alas, I fear I am more like Mr. Darcy: reserved, awkward, and introverted. Too bad I can’t add rich to that assessment.
After watching P&P you've become a big Matthew Macfadyen fan. How many MM movies have you seen and besides P&P, which is your favorite?
I think I have seen everything now! No, wait; I have not seen “Warriors.” My favorite role after Mr. Darcy is Tom Quinn in Spooks/MI5. Not only did Matthew look absolutely mouth watering in every last scene of his 2.25 seasons on that show, but his character reminded me the most of Mr. Darcy. A man who is commanding, capable, ruthless, and even lethal, while also being vulnerable, sensitive, emotive, and searching for love and normalcy. It was a brilliant role and he played it brilliantly. Here is a secret: I often imagine Tom Quinn when I am writing Darcy in a Master of Pemberley situation!
If you knew you only had 24 hours to live, what would you do and why?
Spend at least half that time talking to all my dearest friends and family. I would tell them how much they have meant to me and take the opportunity to share the Gospel one last time with great authority. Then I would quietly hang with my husband and two kids, comforting them because to me it will only be a second of glory staring at my Lord before they are right beside me once again.
If you had a million dollars and had 24 hours to spend it (and you had to spend it all), what would you do?
Set up massive trust funds for my kids and husband, give a major chunk to my church, buy that spread in Montana that my husband dreams of and I refuse to even consider (see above comment re: snow), buy the Queen Anne that I want somewhere warm for when the Montana snow is killing me, give portions to my extended family, probably new cars all around with my dream Porsche Carrera topping the list, book several trips and cruises with an extended survey of England a priority, gather up all the incredible friends I have made via my writing for a long girlie bash somewhere tropical, buy a mega-plush fifth-wheel to travel around the country in leisure, and if that doesn’t deplete it I would donate the remainder to charity.
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go & why?
There are so many places, but first on the agenda would be England. I have to see all the places I have written about and make sure I got it right!
What is your favorite part of your job as a neonatal ICU nurse?
The babies, without a doubt. I love working with kids. My first job as an RN was in pediatrics, but when I transferred ‘temporarily’ into the NICU I never looked back. It is incredibly rewarding and challenging. Next I love the high adrenaline of the ICU setting. I am one of those people who flourish under pressure, love being a decision maker, and have the gift of rapid response.
If you could meet anyone famous, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
JRR Tolkien. I have no idea what I would say other than to thank him for the amazing world he created that has brought me decades of pleasure. And I would like to meet Jane Austen to clear up the who-is-the-best Darcy debate once and for all! And to find out if she would be as uptight over authors writing about her characters as so many ‘fans’ are.
Do you have any favorite TV shows that you must see?
Oh my yes! My DVR is my best electronic friend after my laptop! I am still crying over Battlestar Galactica ending. We are hooked on American Idol, Dancing With the Stars, Top Chef, Top Model, Project Runway, and Amazing Race. For comedies I can’t miss How I Met Your Mother, Rules of Engagement, The Office, or Scrubs. Serious drama favs are 24 (Go Jack!), CSI, Heroes, Lost, Life on Mars, Terminator, The Mentalist, Fringe, and House – even though I want to smack him most of the time.
If given the opportunity to go sky-diving or climbing the highest mountain, which would you choose?
I would sooner walk over hot coals with bamboo shoots under my nails and fire ants crawling over my skin than jump out of a plane! Does that answer the question?
You wake up one morning and learn you and your spouse have been given the chance to change places for the day. Do you think it would be harder on him to be you, or vice versa?
Harder on me, absolutely no doubt. Not only does my husband have a very physical job that would kill me within an hour or two, but he has the gift of being able to charm and bluff his way through anything. So I imagine I would get him fired if I tried to do his work while he would dazzle my fellow nurses into taking care of his assigned patients! Plus, and this is embarrassing, he is a WAY better housekeeper than me. I told you he was amazing.
Outside of your family, who is your biggest support?
My world-wide network of fans. Collectively and individually they have kept me going when the times got rough. The positive feedback, kind words, stories of how my novels have touched their hearts, friendship, encouragement, and cold-hard cash in buying my books has been vital in keeping me focused. I know, without a doubt, that there are several times I would have given up if not for the wealth of letters and forum comments to reinforce the necessity of what I am writing.
Will you ever give up nursing to write on a full time basis?
It is difficult for me to ever imagine it. For one, I make a very good living as an RN with 25 years experience! I would need to sell a load of books to surpass my current income. Even if that happened (And don’t get me wrong, I hope it does!) I love my profession too much to give it up entirely. I can see cutting back on my hours to be freer to write more! That would be wonderful.
How in the world do you juggle working full time as a nurse, writing on this schedule, and having a family and a life?
I am just that darned good. LOL! Seriously, it has been a huge challenge. I am extremely fortunate - blessed, really - to have an amazing husband and wonderful kids. My 'kids' are actually 21 and 16, so they are fairly independent. The three of them have taken up the slack astoundingly well. But time management can be a tricky thing. Honestly I am highly organized and programmed to work under pressure, so I think those years of ICU training are paying off now. But no matter how you slice it, I have been forced to let many things go in order to focus on this new career. The only ones truly pleased with my distraction are the spiders living in the corner that have not yet been vacuumed up.
Through out the whole writing process, which began for you in the fan-fic world, what is the greatest lesson you have learned?
To be true to my vision, to my desire, and to my gift. Criticism comes from all directions, and opinions will be offered freely and loudly. The simple truth is that I will never make everyone happy, so I can ultimately only write what I believe in. What is in my heart is all that truly matters.
If your novel was being discussed in a book club what do you think most of the discussion would center on?
Depends on the group! An Austen Book Club would spend the whole time arguing over whether I ‘got it right’ or should have touched it in the first place – no one agreeing. LOL! A general, book loving group would hopefully discuss the relationship I have built between Darcy and Lizzy, talk about the attention to detail and accuracy, and the sheer joy in reading a novel that is not traumatic or heart-breaking. My primary goal has always been to weave a tale that is entertaining to read, puts a smile on one’s face, can be read over and over, and makes you long for more.
If you could ask readers any one question, what would it be?
I am always encouraged to hear of the genuine love of anything Austen without the acrimony and, dare I say, prejudice that pervades some quarters of the fandom. It isn’t just about how a reader feels regarding my offering to the field (although that is nice too), but the sincere delight in discovering the world of fine classical literature and hopeful romantic tones that comes from Jane’s contribution. So, I love it when people write to me of their happiness in having more, in whatever shape it takes. I think that is fantastic! And I can’t imagine that Miss Austen would be disturbed by this.
<~Home **Top of Page**
