My interview with Nicole Givens, publisher of Mocha Memoirs.

Author's Chats

by Nicole Givens Kurtz

Destiny
by L.C. Martin

1. Where did you grow up and was reading and writing a part of your life? Who were your earliest influences and why?

I grew up in Port Chester, NY and while I was a gawky teenager in the ninth grade, I discovered my love of writing. My English teacher encouraged me, and when I rewrote Romeo and Juliet in modern day, she suggested I consider writing as a career. In those days, I read anything I could get my hands on, but I was especially drawn to Romance Novels. Jackie Collins and Janet Evanovich were my favorites. Now I like Julie Garwood, Andres Dubus III, & Brad Meltzer. As you can see I like to read a wide range of Authors.

2. Why did you write your book?

Destiny started out as a short story, but as I began to write it, the characters took over and as their story began to unfold, I knew it would become a novel.

3. Tell us about your book.

Destiny is about two people who meet and get caught up in the dangerous and deadly life of the underworld. And through a number of terrifying encounters, they struggle to hold on to a love they have always dreamed of having.

4. At book signings, what do readers say to you about their interpretations of your book?

I haven't had a signing yet. My book will be out this spring. But it's gotten a four star review by Lover Romances www.loveromances.com. The reviewer said, "A highly intricate web weaves as the story builds and numerous lives are thrown together into a charged climax. A very Soprano-esque flavored story, Destiny will not disappoint."

5. What general advice do you have for writers who just completed their first book?

Submit, submit, and submit. But make sure it's as polished as can be. It's scary once you send your book out into the world for everyone to see. It's like sending your child off to college. But have the courage and confidence to do it.

6. Tell me about your publishing experience--You published with Crystal Dreams Publishing, an e-publisher. Is it difficult process to promote your own writing?

I've been in sales and marketing all of my working life, so it's not hard for me to promote my work. I just hope people like it. But unfortunately Crystal Dreams is having some difficulties and Destiny will not be available for a while.

7. Are you working on a follow up? Or something totally different?

I do plan on writing a sequel to Destiny, but currently I've been working on my third novel called, Emerald Harbor. It's about a brother and sister who are vacationing in the Virgin Islands and become involved with gem smugglers. It's filled with suspense, intrigue, high stakes and of course romance. My second book, Caught in the Rain will be released this fall by Publish America. It's also a high stakes romance set in the rugged coastal region of Southern California.

8. What was the last book you read?

The First Counsel by Brad Meltzer. He's a great storyteller. The book is fast paced and a real page-turner.

9. Do you have any hobbies? What are they? How do they enhance your writing?

I love to swim and exercise. I've taken up yoga. It clears my head and brings me in touch with my thoughts. Helps me to be more creative.

10. As a writer, what is the worst rejection letter you ever received?

I received a letter from an editor with Pocket Books. She said my book was well written, but too depressing. It was right after September 11th. My books are usually about women who are struggling to find real love and go through lots of mayhem before finding it. I don't really see what's so depressing about that, but we're all entitled to our opinion.

Finally, please give our readers a brief synopsis of your book and a hyperlink to where they can purchase it. Be sure to include the price for each format.

Nikki Saunders has given up on love, but when she meets Jason McKenzie, an arrestingly handsome developer, who's desperately trying to escape the deadly grip of the mob, sparks begin to fly. Through a tidal wave of terror, deceit and murder, their love is tested to the extreme. From the sultry fervent nights in Miami and Key West, to the dazzling intensity of New York City, their passion is inevitable. Their love undeniable. It was their destiny.

Hopefully Destiny will be available by January of 2003. I've submitted it to Publish America and am keeping my fingers crossed.

© 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 Mocha Memoirs, Inc. All Rights Reserved. No unauthorized duplication without expressed written consent of Mocha Memoirs.