An Interview with L.C. Martin
by Simone Grant coordinator of TRS BLUE

(Look for the whole story in August at The Romance Studio)

SG: Tell us all about your novel Caught in the Rain.

LM: It's a coming of age story. Something we all can relate to, but with Jessica, she faces a lot of tragedy and heartbreak that luckily most people don't. Overcoming these obstacles and finding real love is a challenge, but Jessica is a remarkable young lady. Caught in the Rain is set along the rocky coast of Southern California and I was inspired to write it while living in Huntington Beach.

SG: Can you tell us about your forthcoming novel Destiny?

LM: Destiny was actually the first novel I wrote, but second to be published. It takes place in the steamy tropics of Key West and is filled with romance, intrigue, and terror. Nikki Saunders, takes a much-needed vacation and finds herself tangled up with the mob, but also discovers the man she's been dreaming about all of her life. This book was inspired while living in Miami and by the many trips I took down to Key West, a place that truly is paradise to me. It was written after moving to California. I guess I was homesick.

SG: : What are you working on now, your plans for future books?

LM: I'm currently working on a novel entitled, Emerald Harbor. Set in the balmy waters of St. Thomas, it's about a young woman and her brother who unwilling become involved with gem smugglers and the ruggedly handsome police captain that tries to help them. It's a story filled with twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seat. I have a number of ideas for future books, but want to finish this novel before moving on. It's hard for me to write two books at the same time. I know that many writers do this, but I get so caught up with my story and characters, it's hard for me to switch gears from one book to the other.

SG: Where do you get your inspiration for your stories?

LM: As you can tell by now, I'm usually inspired by settings first. All of my novels are set in a location I either lived in and loved or visited and became mesmerized by the beauty of it. The stories come to me by just observing everyday life. People can be quite interesting if you really take a look. I might hear a snippet of a conversation and then my mind starts to form a story. That's why I always carry around a little notebook. You never know when you may hear, or see, or taste that pearl.

SG: What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

LM: Don't give up. Persistence pays off. In your writing and also when submitting your work. Find a writing routine that works and stick with it, even if you write a little bit each day. And don't be afraid to submit; you'll never get published if you don't. Just make sure your work is as polished as it can be before you do.

SG: Tell us about your life away from writing, what are your hobbies?

LM: I love to read. Most writers do. Traveling is something I truly enjoy, especially with my husband. I love warm climates and tropical breezes. Lying on the beach with a sizzling book is just about the best thing I could think of. I currently live in Houston and love the weather. It's as close to Miami as I can get and I've been having a ball exploring this amazing city. My sister-in-law just taught me how to crochet. Now, I never thought I'd be someone who would or could crochet, but here I am crocheting my first baby blanket and it's looking good. I find it to be helpful with my writing when I'm stuck or tired of revising.