I'm back, so it must be Monday.
Isn't that how it works?
No?
In any case, I'm here, you're here. Let's talk books!
Today I have H.L. Scott. She's a new writer on the scene, and her first romcom, "Nothing But Everything," just came out on Kindle after a successful run on Kindle Vella!
Full disclosure: I know H.L. as I was the editor of her book.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? So long ago I couldn't put my figure on it. I never thought I’d be good enough until I spent years learning copywriting.
Where do you get your information or ideas for your books? If I see something funny or if an idea pops in my head. I also spend a lot of time thinking “what if”.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing? I do some dictating writing when I walk, or I get up early and write first thing as many days as possible.
When did you write your first book and how old were you? I’ll admit to being over 40, my first book was a middle grade Idea. I worked on the idea with my daughter.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing? I walk a lot, it helps me clear stress. Also swimming.
What does your family think of your writing? They don’t say too much. I think if I book takes off they’ll care a lot more!
What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books? How much I loved it.
How many books have you written? Which is your favourite? Now I’m at 4 complete and 4 in progress. I don’t have a favorite yet.
Do you have any suggestions to help someone become a better writer? If so, what are they? Hire great editors and write as much as you can.
Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say? My favorite is just when people say they enjoy the story or something made them laugh. That makes my day. Or if a middle grade reader asks their parents for the next book in the series.
Do you like to create books for adults? Yes middle grade and adults.
What do you think makes a good story? When a character pushes themselves to grow and change. Also when they overcome and address conflict.
What is your writing Kryptonite? Music! I like to write when it’s quiet.
Did you ever consider writing under a pseudonym? I have three pen names based on audience and the content of the book.
Do you try more to be original or to deliver to readers what they want? I try to write a book readers will enjoy, I’d like to write more to market, as I think the market helps show what people enjoy.
Do you want each book to stand on its own, or are you building a body of work with connections between each book? I have some of each, including short stories. I’ve noticed in romance people often want an author with many books because they like to binge read. So I hope to get more and more books done.
If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be? Write more, start earlier, read more.
How did publishing your first book change your process of writing? So far the editors have helped me the most to learn what I was doing wrong and how to make the books more enjoyable. How to add connection to the story and characters.
What was the best money you ever spent as a writer? So far it’s definitely editors.
What do you owe the real people upon whom you base your characters, if anything? I like to step back and pull out why people do what they do.
How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?
What does literary success look like to you? Have books people love, look forward to and read consistently.
What’s the best way to market your books? I’m working on paid ads across a few social platforms.
What do you have coming next? As many books as I can keep writing.
Here's a link to her website: H.L.Scott | Author (hlscottauthor.com)
And a little excerpt from her featured book!
Chapter 1 - Goat Yoga
“You shouldn’t try to develop that skill, Claire.” I put down a pitcher of margaritas.
“Why? What’s wrong with it?” she asked, lighting a candle on the table.
“I’ve heard it’s dangerous. People who haven’t passed on will try to contact you to help their souls pass to the light. If you do this wrong, you could become possessed, woooo.” Jackie held her hands out with her best ghost impression.
“You worry too much. I’m always careful, you know that. I’ve taken an online class—”
“Taking,” I said. “You haven’t finished it yet.”
“Yes, taking, and at the end, I’ll get a certificate.” Claire sat up straight and pushed out her chest.
Oh, that girl. Claire started meditating a year ago and now? She’s convinced she can speak to the dead.
“Sure, one class. Now you’re a medium at age thirty-nine?” I poured myself a margarita and took a sip. The perfect blend of fresh limes from our garden, tequila, and triple sec. Heaven in a glass.
“The more I learned, the more I opened my mind, Harper.” Claire pointed at her template. “Just let go and you’ll see.”
“You’re out of your darn mind.” I sat back in my chair and put my head up to grab the last rays of the California sun. Our backyard patio was a perfect blend of French cafe and west coast beach.
“You know I love you, Harper, but you need to loosen up. You know forty is the new thirty.” Jackie flipped her hair.
