CLP Blog Tours Interview and Excerpt: Precious Words by Leigh Fleming
**Interview**
When did you know writing was for you?
I’m sure every writer says “I’ve always wanted to write a book” and that’s true for me as well. My first attempt at writing a book was in sixth grade when I completed the first chapter of novel, but was quickly distracted by something else. For years I’ve said I wanted to write a book and finally at the age of fifty I began writing. I guess I knew writing was for me when my editor squelched my insecurities and lacking confidence by telling me that I was very creative and to keep writing. Any doubts I had up to that point made me more determined to express my thoughts through writing while learning all I could about the craft.
Why was Precious Words a book you wanted to write?
I was actually working on my great, great grandmother’s story when one morning I awoke from a very vivid dream, as realistic as if I were watching a movie, about a top ranked tennis player who has everything going for him. He is successful, talented, wealthy, handsome, has millions of adoring fans and yet, he is lonely. He meets a beautiful American woman and falls in love, making his life complete, but he soon discovers someone wants to bring his success and happiness to an end. That was how I was inspired to write Precious Words. I knew as soon as I got out of bed that this would be the book I would write.
What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
Patience. I’m the type of writer who plots inside my head, so when I sit down to write, I know what is coming. Sometimes I find myself rushing through the narrative or the dialogue to get to the climax of that particular scene. I wrote Precious Words chronologically-writing from beginning to end—and often brushed over some important elements to the story. Needless to say, there were several rewrites. With the novel I’m currently writing, I’ve allowed myself to write the story in scenes. So, if one day I’m in the mood to write a love scene, I’ll write it. If another day I want to write something funny, I’ll do it. Again, since I know what is going to happen, I write what I feel inspired to write that day. Now, I’ve put all those scenes together and am just about finished filling in the little details that bind the story together. Probably the hardest part of the process is not knowing what is the best process for me.
What are your favorite genres to read?
I love romance, suspense, crime, mysteries, contemporary—you name it. It’s probably easier to ask what I don’t like. I don’t like fantasy or paranormal. Stories that are realistic, that could actually happen are what interest me most, and there must be a relationship. Seeing the connection between two main characters—no matter what the genre—is important to me. It humanizes the story.
What do you want readers to take away from your story?
Mainly I hope that for a few hours they are transported out of their day-to-day lives and escape to an exciting world of love and intrigue. Nico and Emberly both had different reasons for not wanting to get involved with each other, but in the end, love conquered all. Isn’t that the best take away in any story?
How important do you think social media is for authors these days?
It’s extremely important. Since most people rely on Facebook and Twitter and the internet in general for their news and connection to friends, it’s important for authors to have an online presence. Social media is a great networking tool which exposes authors to people they never could have reached otherwise.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?
I’ve always said the best training tool for writers is to read. Reading the type of books you enjoy reading everyday will help you in your writing. Don’t give up when that inkling of doubt creeps in. You may have to rewrite several times, but keep at it in order to get the story the way you want it. Also, an experienced professional editor is critical to the writing process.
**Excerpt**
Annie reached for Emberly’s arm. “Oh, he’s too hot to resist. We’re getting his
autograph, and you’re coming with us.” Emberly felt herself being propelled
forward as Annie and Kate firmly tugged on her wrists. Embarrassed by her friends’
exuberance but refusing to make a scene, she decided to hide behind Annie and
Kate as they approached the table.
The four swarthy men were huddled at a round table tucked in the corner of the
pub, eating sandwiches and talking rapidly in Italian. Nico was sitting in the
corner facing the three girls, sipping what appeared to be lemonade. His head
jerked up as Annie boldly announced, “We’re sorry to bother you gentlemen, but
our friend here would like to get Nico’s autograph for her mother, who is probably
his biggest fan.”
Nico appeared amused at this unusual request and smiled at his companions.
“Sure. Which friend are you referring to?” His confused gaze fell on Annie and
Kate. The two girls quickly stepped apart and pulled Emberly forward despite her
resistance. She smiled timidly, mesmerized by Nico’s inky dark eyes and glowing
smile. Nico’s smile faded and he stared silently at Emberly. She watched his eyes
trail from her face to her long blond hair, which lay casually across one shoulder.
He seemed to be drinking her in as his gaze settled back on her face. It felt like an
eternity before he spoke. “Hello,” he said softly without taking his eyes off her.
Author Bio:
Leigh Fleming is the owner of the Scrapbook Cottage, a weekend retreat center for craft enthusiasts. She lives with her husband, Patrick, in Martinsburg, West Virginia, and is mom to adult children, Tom and Liza, and two beloved dogs, Lula Belle and Napoleon. Precious Words is her first novel.
Connect with Leigh!
www.facebook.com/leighhflemingauthor
https://twitter.com/leighhfleming1
Buy the Book!
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/precious-words-leigh-fleming/1117779161?ean=9781491713488
http://bookstore.iuniverse.com/Products/SKU-000679447/Precious-Words.aspx
