C.W. Gortner
I've learned not to wait for the muse; I just sit down and put in the hours. Sometimes I feel elated and it flows. Other times, it's like pulling teeth. A writing instructor once told me, "You can't revise a blank page." Very true. I live by that motto. I'd rather have 120,000 lousy words than none at all, because for me, the fun starts once I have the first draft and can revise, refine, and deepen my narrative. But before that, I need the draft. So, I don't wait for inspiration because that'll come later, after I have something to sink into.
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Wendy
asked
C.W. Gortner:
I just finished "The Romanov Empress". I loved it. I felt I was standing on the sidelines witnessing the events as they unfolded. I received this book as a give-away on Goodreads and am so grateful for the chance to read and now own the book. Well researched Historical Fiction is my favorite genre. When do you think you book about Sarah Bernhardt will be published?
Ellen Collier
asked
C.W. Gortner:
I fail to understand why readers can't separate authors from their subject. Seems a few readers are somehow blaming you for Chanel's behavior and attacking your novel when you're just recording the facts, describing and interpreting them. Chanel's ambition and drive to overcome obstacles are what make her so fascinating. What do you think of these reactions and how do you handle the controversy and negative reviews?
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