Ask the Author: J.J. Clarke
Answered Questions (6)
J.J. Clarke
My readers suggested I start a series featuring my character, Susie, from the Kate Anderson Mystery Series. She has been fun to write! My research has led me to take golf lessons, attend a Botox party, and interview The Elaine is our name club.
I’m also working on some True Crime stories from when I worked a parole officer and supervisor.
I’m also working on some True Crime stories from when I worked a parole officer and supervisor.
J.J. Clarke
I’m working on a cozy mystery titled, Deadly Investigations.
My colorful character, Susie Jones returns to The Villages, Florida, to finish her contract with The FBI. Quirky sidekick, Janis is riding shotgun in-the golf cart.
My colorful character, Susie Jones returns to The Villages, Florida, to finish her contract with The FBI. Quirky sidekick, Janis is riding shotgun in-the golf cart.
J.J. Clarke
Thank you, Katherine! I've answered this question before, but somehow it didn't post. Kate is a combination of a few strong women I know. Her background includes some of my own.
It's true, I was a bond investigator for the State of Missouri, I did carry a gun long enough to develop what I call 'holster hip'. I grew up in a small town similar to Kingseat.
It's true, I was a bond investigator for the State of Missouri, I did carry a gun long enough to develop what I call 'holster hip'. I grew up in a small town similar to Kingseat.
J.J. Clarke
Even though I often don't follow my own advice, I tell aspiring writers to get on Goodreads and participate in this community. I also advise writers to read and review other people's work.
I give out five stars like they are free! Why not? If I finish a book, enjoyed it, and especially if I've discussed it, I give it FIVE stars. I don't hold back to the standard of 'it has to be one of the best books I've ever read' before it gets five starts. For those who have stricter standards, I understand that side too. But for me, I love smiling and thinking I've made an author's day.
The other thing I tell writers is: Write the book. Write the story. Many people get stuck in 'Someday, I'm gonna write a book'. There's no time like today! Get a sticker that says something like: Write the ____ story!
I give out five stars like they are free! Why not? If I finish a book, enjoyed it, and especially if I've discussed it, I give it FIVE stars. I don't hold back to the standard of 'it has to be one of the best books I've ever read' before it gets five starts. For those who have stricter standards, I understand that side too. But for me, I love smiling and thinking I've made an author's day.
The other thing I tell writers is: Write the book. Write the story. Many people get stuck in 'Someday, I'm gonna write a book'. There's no time like today! Get a sticker that says something like: Write the ____ story!
J.J. Clarke
The best thing about being a writer is the incredible people I meet! I've connected with family I didn't know I had. I've met people in the writing community and have forged friendships that will last a lifetime. I also love the people here on Goodreads and other social media sites.
One of the people I met on Goodreads is inspiration for a quirky character in my next book.
One of the people I met on Goodreads is inspiration for a quirky character in my next book.
J.J. Clarke
I rarely suffer from writer's block. (That's a big knock-on wood). I realize I'm very fortunate. I’m also lucky enough to be my own boss, so I'm not dealing with hard deadlines.
The one thing I consistently do, that may help someone who is struggling to write: I plan when to write. I'm usually write M, W, F from 9-2. I also write sprints when I get a chance.
The writing usually starts in my head long before I ever sit down at the keyboard. Sometimes that's good, sometimes that's not so good. It's never good when Susie pops into my head when I'm driving. I occasionally miss a turn.
The one thing I consistently do, that may help someone who is struggling to write: I plan when to write. I'm usually write M, W, F from 9-2. I also write sprints when I get a chance.
The writing usually starts in my head long before I ever sit down at the keyboard. Sometimes that's good, sometimes that's not so good. It's never good when Susie pops into my head when I'm driving. I occasionally miss a turn.
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