Thursday, February 01, 2007

BLOG TOUR AND INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR SUSAN WARREN ABOUT RECLAIMING NICK


I'm thrilled today to have Author Susan Warren here talking about her new release: Reclaiming Nick.


From back cover:


Nick Noble hadn’t planned on being the prodigal son. But when his father dies and leaves half of Silver Buckle—the Noble family ranch—to Nick’s former best friend, he must return home to face those he left behind. And to make sure that the Silver Buckle stays in the Noble family. Award-winning journalist Piper Sullivan believes Nick framed her brother for murder, and she’s determined to find justice. But following Nick to the Silver Buckle and posing as a ranch cook proves more challenging than she first anticipated. So does resisting his charming smile. As Nick seeks to overturn his father’s will—and Piper digs for answers—family secrets surface that send Nick’s life into a tailspin. But there’s someone who wants to see the Silver Buckle leave Noble hands, and he’s willing to do whatever it takes to make that happen, even if it means taking a life.




Hope you enjoy the interview!



1. Okay my first question, is WHERE DID THEY FIND THAT COVER MODEL? LOL! Seriously, how much say do you, the author, have in the choosing of the cover? It really depends on the book and the publisher. I have been very fortunate that all my publishers have let me have input on my books, but usually their design ideas are much much better than mine. I was privileged to be able to sit in on the brainstorming for covers and titles for Nick, and my editor really embraced the concept for the series, and let me bring to the table some bold cover ideas. I'm so thankful for Tyndale's support in this series.



2. What was your first reaction when you saw the cover? LOVED it. LOVED LOVE LOVED it. It's still one of my absolute favs.



3. I understand RECLAIMING NICK is Book 1 in the Noble Legacy series. When writing a series, do you plot the entire series out before writing the first book, or plot the next two as or after you've written the first one? I try to plot out the entire series, so I can plant seeds about the other books in books one and two. For sure I have ideas and blurbs and a framework of where I want to go.



4. The theme of the book seems to be a prodigal coming home. How do you come up with themes for your books? They really flow from what I am studying in scripture at the time I put the proposal together. I happened to study Philippians during this series, and this book is based on Phil 1:6, which is about God continuing His good plan for us.



5. How many books are in the Noble Legacy series? And can you tell us anything about them, theme-wise? Are any characters in Nick's story revisited in the next books?


There are currently 3 books slotted. Nick, of course is first, and then Rafe (a bull-rider) and Stefanie, who is a horse trainer. Much of the story is about their struggle to hang onto their ranch which has been in the family for generations. Rafe's story is based on Phil 2:13, and the idea that God is at work in us, whatever circumstances we find ourselves in. It's about our impact in the world as Christians. And Stefanie is about strength, and what that means – Phil 4:13 And yes, all three siblings appear in each book.



6. When can we expect to see the next book on the shelves and where can interested readers order/buy one? I believe Rafe comes out near about September. But you will be seeing excerpts and fun Rafe promos about June. It should be in your local B & N and Christian bookstore.



7. How long have you been writing? When did you know you wanted to be a writer? Oh, I've been writing all my life, but I never thought I'd be a novelist. Not until I moved to Siberia and needed something to read – so I wrote it! I've been writing for publication about five years .



8. What means do you use to research your novels? Hands on! I love interviewing people, and if possible, to experience the lives they live. I went to Montana and lived on a ranch for a few days to research Nick. And I went to Gilly's and climbed on a mechanical bull to get a feel for Rafe. And I'm spending a couple days with a horse trainer for Stefanie. I've been very privileged to get some valuable first hand experience, as well as to run weird questions by the "people who know."



9. Given the choice of an evening out with a groupe of friends, or a quiet movie evening at home, which would you prefer? Oh, wow – I guess I prefer to go out with friends. Although I love good movies!



10. What about character Nick? Nick – he's probably a move buff. John Wayne westerns, and the Fugitive.



11. What was the funnest part of writing this book? Piper and her horrible cooking scenes. I laughed out loud.



12. If Nick Noble could blurb you as the author who wrote his story, and how well the two of you worked together, using typical Nick style, what would he say if he had to write a back cover author blurb?


Oh, you're requiring me to be creative!



This here's Susan. She's the gal who wrote about me, and reckon' she got most of it right. She did learn to throw a rope, which I guess gives her some spunk, although she was more ornamental than useful on the ranch. Even so, she shore 'nuf got her done. She lives somewhere in the woods, with her family and kiddos. I don't know how many books she's written -- this is the only one I read.




THANKS SUSAN! I cannot wait to read the next book in this series!!!!



Thank you for letting my stop by and chat about Nick, Cheryl! And don't forget to stop by and Meet Nick! http://meetnick.susanmaywarren.com




--
www.CherylWyatt.com Gal. 2:20 Pouring my vial of words over Him.

A SOLDIER'S PROMISE~ Steeple Hill Love Inspired~ Jan. 2008

www.Scrollsquirrel.blogspot.com

4 comments:

Shauna said...

Thanks, Cheryl and Susan! Sizzling cover and great interview! And thanks, Nick, for stopping by. *sigh* Love that drawl! LOL!

Mindy Obenhaus said...

Niiiiiiice book cover. It's that whole cowboy thing.
Now that I've wiped the drewl off of my chin, thanks for the heads-up on what sounds like a great book. I'll definitely be adding it to my collection.

Mindy Obenhaus said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

What a delightful interview! Did you ever consider doing some magazine interviews, Squirly? You've got the technique! (And that is an awesomely cute cover!) Now I'm really anxious to read the book! I hope I can find it!!!
Susan Warren, you've made it look really interesting!!! :) May God continue to bless your work!