Lynne Marshall 's Interview

On Writing and Reading…

What do you love most about being a writer?

I love to be completely in charge of my character’s lives. Especially since sometimes, I seem to have no control whatsoever over my own life!

What do you like least about being a writer?

The blank computer screen staring at me at 5:30 each morning when I get up to begin my writing day before going to work!

Do you have a favorite locale or setting for your novels? What is it and why is it your favorite?

Since I was born and raised in California, I love to keep my stories based in the Los Angeles area. I have created a fictitious medical facility in North East L.A.: Mercy Hospital. Drop by and pay it a visit. My characters usually hang out in the E.R.

Which of the books you have written is your favorite?

The answer to that will always be my work in progress.

What is your favorite recent Mills & Boon or Silhouette or MIRA title by another author?

The Forever Assignment by Jennifer Taylor

What are your five all-time favorite books (with authors)?

The Horse Whisperer by Nicholas Evans

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Cry No More by Linda Howard

The Thornbirds by Colleen McCullough

Nobody’s Baby But Mine by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

What one specific piece of advice would you give a would-be writer trying to kick-start a career?

Don’t quit! Write your story. Join a critique group. Take every tough critique session with a grain of salt, but listen and learn from what other writers tell you. Go back to the computer and write more. Oh, and don’t follow trends. Be original.

On Romance…

Describe the ultimate romantic meal. The ultimate romantic meal involves anything with melted butter and crustaceans. Mmm.

What is your all-time favorite romantic movie?

The Last of the Mochicans

What is your all-time favorite romantic song or composition?

Contemporary—it’s a tie: Sweet Love by Anita Baker and Someone Like You by Van Morrison Classical: The Girl with the Flaxen Hair by Claude Debussy

What is the most romantic gesture or gift you have received?

Once, my husband bought me a new outfit (he has good taste, too!), made me wear a blindfold, and he drove me to a romantic restaurant called The Secret Garden. I’ll never forget what a romantic evening it was.

How do you keep the romance alive in your relationship?

We schedule date night out!

What tip would you give your readers to make their lives more romantic?

Be spontaneous. Surprise your partner. And if you need a bit of inspiration, read a romance novel.

Where is the most romantic place you’ve ever traveled?

Kauai.

All About me…

Besides writing, what other talent would you most like to have?

I’d love to be a ballroom dancer!

Who is someone you admire and why?

It’s not just one person it’s an entire profession. Nurses! It takes a very special person to meet the demands of nursing.

Do you have a good luck charm or superstition?

I keep a picture of my critique partners on the desk in my office. Their spirits often help me get my creative juices flowing when I’m having a dry spell.

Share one of your favorite indulgences with us.

I was on a strict diet once, which allowed me to occasionally dip a few strawberries in melted semi-sweet chocolate chips. My husband and I took turns feeding them to each other. Nothing ever tasted so sinfully delicious!

What quality do you most admire in a man?

I admire a take-charge guy. Someone you can count on when times get tough.