Why a roller rink?
Why not? Actually, the inspiration for the roller rink setting came from my mother, Jaci Charbonneau. She was an artistic roller skater who competed both in solo and dance competitions. She appeared on ABC's Wide World of Sports and was even pictured in the World Book Encyclopedia under "Roller Skating".
What advice would you give an aspiring writer?
Write an entire book. That seems simplistic, but it isn't. It is the very first step in the process. If you have an idea for a story, write it. Get to the end. Then you can figure out what your strengths and weaknesses are. Many writers get so caught up in making their writing perfect that they never get to the end of a novel. They are too busy revising the beginning. Often, once the novel is written, the beginning changes or gets cut. You won't know if this is true for you until the book is written and you know where the story is going. Once you have the book finished, I recommend joining a professional writing group like RWA to help improve your writing and help you learn the business.
What is RWA?
RWA, or Romance Writers of America , is a professional writing organization which exists to help promote and educate romance writers. A wonderful friend, Susan Elizabeth Phillips, gave me a piece of advice "Join RWA. Then join Chicago-North RWA." It was the best advice I ever got. Only, I waited eight months before feeling qualified enough to attend a group with other real writers. Chicago-North is a critique chapter and with the help of those writers, I learned everything I could want to know about conflict, POV and character motivation. I don't write romance, but good writing transcends genres and these writers don't hold it against me. In fact, they helped me realize that writing mysteries is where I belong.
Do you still teach singing?
YES!!! I love singing. More important, I love teaching. My students are wonderful sources of inspiration and continue to teach me about life while I teach them about singing.
Do you have a critique group?
Yes, I do. I belong to the Chicago-North Chapter of Romance Writers of America which is a critique chapter. The first time I read my work in front of those savvy writers was one of the most terrifying moments of my life. I also belong to a small group of writers of mixed genres that meets once a month for support, industry chat and sometimes a good kick in the butt when I need it. Writing is a solitary experience, but I believe every writer needs to have a place to go for critiques, questions and support. I have been lucky enough to find two. Family is great for support and cheerleading. They'll love you through the plot holes and bad grammer. Other trusted writers , however, will tell you not only when you are getting it right, but most importantly, when you are getting it wrong.
Who are your favorite authors?
Tough question. I love all genres, so I read a lot. I love Margaret George. Harlan Coben and David Baldacci always keep me turning the pages as does Iris Johansen and Lisa Scottoline. Maeve Binchey is lovely and I am a sucker for Debbie Macomber. Since I have so many romance writing friends, I can't pick a favorite. I read a lot of them and think there are a lot of smart women with a flare for writing the genre.