Posted by Julie at Jan 23, 2010 6:00 am
One of the coolest part of my local RWA chapter is that we have some spectacular published authors. I nearly jumped out of my skin when I learned that BETINA KRAHN, of whom I’m a fan, had joined our chapter…and that thrill increased ten fold when I also learned that Betina was writing for Blaze! Betina’s first Blaze, MAKE ME YOURS, a sassy historical, caused quite the buzz over the Internet and with Blaze readers because the book was simply UNBELIEVABLY wonderful! (Yes, I’m gushing…sue me.) Now, Betina has a novella out in a new Blaze, MANHUNTING, which she shares with another TARA member, the fantastic Joanne Rock and the wonderful Lori Borrill. I did a mini-interview with Betina that I thought would be perfect for our Saturday series. And because she’s generous on top of being a fabulous author, there’s a giveaway at the end of the post for anyone who comments. So let’s give a warm jungle welcome to Betina!
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1) Your very first contemporary romance is in stores this month! This must have been a huge shift for you in your approach to the story. What was the biggest challenge for you in switching subgenres from historical to contemporary?
Actually, I was surprised by how much the process stayed the same! The challenge—not unexpectedly—was finding a way to deal with current morals and expectations regarding sex. In historicals, respectable heroines are usually virgins or widows—occasionally a spinster or governess. Women with sexual experience were considered “soiled†or “looseâ€â€”unless that experience was obtained in a legal and proper marriage. And even marital pleasure was often considered suspect and unthinkable. These days (like in Make Me Yours) I choose widows over virgins. Frankly, they’re more interesting. (So shoot me, all you virgins out there.) PLUS, the novella was not just a contemporary, it was a BLAZE!! So, the question became, how I handle the H&H having sizzling sex soon after meeting without making her seem like a slut. Hmmmm. All this in 100 pages. And make it steamy. And funny. ‘Cause I have to do funny.
So I had to start with a strong, savvy woman with a weakness. . . who found herself at kind of a crossroads and had to take steps. . . Once I settled on the who and where. . . and the fact that she had hidden depths, it fell into place. Whew.
2) What was the one thing you thought might change from your historical novels to your contemporaries…but that really didn’t?
The dynamics of the romance were surprisingly the same. The sexual triggers and signals change from era to era, but the basics remain the same. See, Taste, Want. Or as Caesar is reported to have said, “Veni, vidi, venciâ€. . . I came, I saw, I conquered. And then came again. ::grin::
3) In your historical novels, your voice comes across as smart and modern while never breaking from the historical perspective. Do you think that’s natural or do you work at it?
Yeah, well, it’s mostly me. My own voice, developed over time. People who know me well say they can just “hear†me talking as they read. Yikes. But I do think my voice has changed over the years. It’s gotten more modern. Probably because I think readers generally don’t want â€historical accuracy†as much as they want a romance they can relate to. In my early books, I used dialect and more “historical†language. It worked, but I think it distances the reader more than I would like.
4) You’re particularly well-known for your smart, resourceful heroines…tell us about how you conceptualized your first contemporary heroine and why she appeals to your contemporary hero.
Samantha Drexel is the product of a three way—conceptualizing effort. Joanne Rock and Lori Borrill and I chatted about what we’d like to do with the concept of a Valentine pact to go MANHUNTING. . . and I kind of naturally went for the “corporate†“take charge†“go-get-what-you-want†type gal. Plus, I figured she’d have fewer hang-ups about going for the pleasure she wanted. It turned out I was right to head that direction. Because of her past, she’s not likely to be bowled over by an uber-sexy rocker. In fact she’s determined to dislike the hero—even though he was once an idol for her. The attraction and the distrust/resentment were there from the beginning. She stands her ground, draws a line in the sand. . . and he is forced to get real or lose it all. So he. . . surrenders. . . and gets on with THE CHASE, which is the ironic name of the story.
5) You’re a bestseller, a RITA winner and all-around well-respected (and adored, if I do say so myself) romance author…if you had one piece of advise you would give to an aspiring or newly published author, what would it be?
Wow, adored? Really? More—more! LOL. So if I had to give advice—which I seldom do—it would be to persevere. To continue writing and honing your skills and not to worry too much about being published NOW. You might think, yeah, she says that because she’s published. I published my very first manuscript. . . but I still had a lot to learn about writing and all of my mistakes and struggles to improve are in print. Sigh.
My second piece of advice is to be careful who you show your work to. There’s a fine line between constructive suggestion and creativity-killing criticism. . . even from dear friends and colleagues. So find a trusted one or two and share with them. But remember that the ONLY person you have to please besides yourself, is your editor. It’s YOUR story—write it the way YOU want. . . and see what happens. If someone will pay you to modify it and you think it’s worth the money, then revise. But never make revisions you don’t believe in just to please a critique partner or a reading group. Be true to your own voice and story!
Thanks, Betina! Wonderful answers…and now, for the prize…leave a comment to Betina’s interview and you’ll be eligible to be one of TWO winners who will each receive a copy of not only MAKE ME YOURS, but also MANHUNTING!
Wow! I have been reading and enjoying Betina’s books for some years starting with the great The Last Bachelor. I hope she keeps writing historicals along with contemporaries.
welcome Betina, great post. I’m a fairly new Tara member and am trying to read a little of everyone’s work so I will be looking up yo
welcome Betina, great post. I’m a fairly new Tara member and am trying to read a little of everyone’s work so I will be sitting down with some of your work.
hi Betina, Great post indeed ! and Great Advice too :yourock
I’m so new with your works though :batteeyes: Looking forward to have my chance to read one of your books soon :biggrin:
Welcome to the jungle Betina. I can’t stay too long right now, but I will check back in later. I love your work as well. I am not a super fangirl like Jules yet, but I am getting there. You combine two of my favorite things, history and romance, great ingredients for some of my fave Victorian Lit books. My favorite quote:
“…remember that the ONLY person you have to please besides yourself, is your editor. It’s YOUR story—write it the way YOU want. . . and see what happens.”
This is one of the best pieces of advice any newbie writer or current pubbed and unpubbed authors have to learn. I am still learning. Thank you very much for swinging with us today. See you in the convertible.
Jules thank you for bringing yet another wonderful guest to play with us today. Have a wonderful rest of the day everyone.
Peace and love,
Paula R.
Hi, guys! So great to be here on a balmy– ok, relatively balmy– Saturday morning here on the jungle! Hey, is that a cockatoo?
Maureen, I still love historicals and will have an historical novella out in November/December. Tentatively titled (yeah, it WILL change) “Bad Mistletoe.” But I’ve just learned that my next full book will be a Blaze contemporary. I’m thrilled to be writing :partygroup: a “now” book!
Michele and Mariska, thanks for dropping by on a Saturday! I hope you’ll enjoy the stories.
Paula, thanks so much for the warm welcome. You know, the advice comes from my own experience. I had 10 books out before I ever let a fellow writer see anything I had written before it was published. My critique-er has always been my sister, who also writes, but is not yet published. She’s smart, savvy, and has a masters in English Lit. . . and loves romance and popular fiction. Plus, she knows when I’m struggling with a project and goes “constructive” with the criticism. But in fact– if she doesn’t like something and I do, I still go with it and let my editor be the judge.
I’ve heard horror stories about writers being “blanded out” by critique partners or groups. . . also by attending too many “how to” sessions and trying to follow all the advice. sigh. So my mantra is:
Protect your creativity, no one else will. Especially not publishers.
Fantastic post full of great advice. I love the historicals and can’t wait to read the new contemporary!!
Welcome Betina! It’s great to have you in the jungle!
I can’t wait to read your contemporary. I like reading anthologies. I have discovered a lot of new to me authors by reading them.
I really enjoy anthologies. Do you find it’s more difficult to wrap everything up when you’re writing a novella versus a novel? Thanks for visiting today.
Betina Krahn! :valpres: A perfect use for these cute Valentine’s icons, because I just love your work! Luck Be A Lady is one of my all-time favorites, I actually had pages fall out of my first copy from reading it so much. It’s the most perfect blend of passion and humor, and all of the characters are so rich without seeming “cartoonish” at all (I love books with secondary characters who are as compelling as the h/h) —seriously, I recommend it to everyone.
I had no idea you were writing Blazes—hugs to the Plot Monkeys for bringing you here today. Ok, off to the bookstore…what a great way to start the weekend. :cooldance:
Welcome to the jungle, Betina! I am looking forward to your new anthology…I was just telling Lori Borrill (huge Lori fan!) how excited I was to read it! Now, I am doubly excited (is doubly a word?).
Wow, you’ve written a contemporary, Betina? Oh I must read that! I’ve read two of your historicals so far, and have absolutely loved them. Also have your historical Blaze on my TBR pile.
And that’s fantastic advice about just writing to please yourself and your editor. I find that if I start worrying about what reviewers and critics might think, it stifles me. When I just let rip and write my own ‘thing’ it always ends up being the writing I’m most proud of… and the work that’s most enjoyed by my readers. :D
Wow– I’m delighted to see so many new readers here! Carrie, Carly and Linda– I hope you enjoy “The Chase” half as much as my heroine did! As I go along, I find myself drawn less and less to the publishing genre label of the book and more to a unique-sounding plot line or a character unlike anything I’ve read before. Historical– I’m game. Contemporary. . . paranormal. . . erotic romance. . .scifi romance. . . romantic suspense. . . romantic thrillers. . . heck just straight suspense and thrillers. Though, a book is always better with a romance of some depth in it. Just my ::cough:: humble opinion.
And GSM, I was surprised that the story wrapped up for me fairly quickly. Truthfully, there were a dozen little alleys I could have explored and plot twists I could have taken into enjoyable territory. But I knew I had just 100 manuscript pages, and that I had to take a straighter shot. . . so I did. You know, I think writing a shorter format can be very liberating sometimes. . . it makes me focus on the important thing, the HIM/HER of the story.
Gillian, I’m so glad you love Luck Be A Lady! It’s one of my three all-time favorites to have written. And I think it’s held up pretty well over the years. . . the story, that is. Sorry about the book falling apart. Maybe someday Kensington will reprint or republish and we can get you a new copy! Say– send me your e-mail addy. To: bkrahn007@gmail.com
Katie, it was a lot of fun working with Joann and Lori– I think the whole anthology turned out to be smashing. Now we just hope it will be a “smash hit”!
Portia, I hope you enjoy the contemporary me as much as the historical. It’s really a joy to be able to try new things and stretch creative muscles. I wish all readers would understand that about writers. . . sometimes we just have to grow and that sometimes means changes. Personally, I love watching friends and authors try new and exciting things.
I have enjoyed reading a few of your books, add in Blaze and Anthology, and that is a great combo!!! :snoopy:
:valbemine:
Colleen! Glad to see you here on a Saturday! I’m going for a matched set of Blazes on the book shelf.
Wow, Betina Krahn is in the Jungle! :partygroup: When I saw on the eharlequin site that you had written a Blaze I was surprised and thrilled. I can also remember saying “wow” to myself in the quiet of my office. You are an amazing writer. Thank you so much for being here. :cooldance:
Cher
:Valday:
Cher, you made my day. Being called an amazing writer– there just isn’t much that’s better for a writer’s soul!
I think I’ve learned quite a bit about writing the in the last four or five years. Maybe as I break new ground I’ll be able to use it and create stories that make hearts pound and chuckles erupt across the divide between past, present, and future.
:flowers4you: I’m glad I could make somebody’s day. I have no doubt that you will continue to shine brighter than ever. :applause:
Cher
Hi Betina! Thanks for being here! I really enjoyed the interview. Thanks too for your great advice! As an aspiring author I often find myself mistrusting the words I’ve written, especially after a “how to” class or conversation with a writing friend. But once I push those negative feelings away, I usually find it’s not as bad as I thought. (Or maybe it is, but I’m patting my own back because hey, if I didn’t, I might stop writing, and I never want to do that!)
I’m definitely still learning and honing my craft, and so very much appreciate it when authors such as yourself remind us to protect our own creativity and persevere. Thank you!
:devil:
Great to see you Robin! That business about protecting your creativity: I have little story to tell. . .
A friend sold her first book some years ago and was ecstatic. It was well-written and well-published and got a lot of attention. She was immediately offered a three book deal at money that was a step up from her first advance but not especially big money. Now, any experienced author can tell you that a three book deal is a goodnews/badnews situation. Great for the security and the publisher committment, bad for the fact that the goodies run out about the time you have to produce that third book and it can be a grind.
Still, we all celebrated with her and were delighted for her; she really wanted to quite the day job and write full time. Then I got a harried, excited phone call from her, saying her publisher had just offered her an additional 4-book deal– on top of the three she’d just agreed to do. I was very alarmed, but didn’t want to “rain on her parade,” so I tried to let her know I didn’t think it was a good idea to take the offer so soon after the other one. I counseled her to “protect her creativity” and told her that a three book deal is sometimes a grind by the third book. I didn’t say: I felt the publisher was taking advantage of her, trying to lock her up cheaply, and that her agent wasn’t giving her good counsel. I did suggest that books 5-9 might fetch a lot more money if she waited to see how the others sold. But she was determined to quit her job and write full time, so she took the additional four-book deal.
Long story short– by book four (out of the seven she was obligated to do), she was totally fried. She had quit her job, was under financial AND creative pressure and the publisher was suddenly waffling about the scheduling for her books. She ground to a halt and had health problems, surgery, and didn’t get back on track for two or three years. She’s a fine writer and a beloved author, but that flattering 7-book-deal turned out to be a killer.
You have to know yourself and to protect your own creative spirit and personal soul, because publishers. . . won’t. They’re in the business of getting fresh, salable material as cheaply as possible and putting it out with as little overhead as they can. Your editor may be friendly and helpful and insightful and even understanding; but your editor is an employee of the publishing company. Their first obligation is to their employers.
Yikes! I don’t mean to be negative– just to say that you have to look out for yourself and manage your own time and creative resources for YOUR benefit.
Great interview, Bettina and Julie! I love to hear from authors as they describe
the dynamics that brings their product to print. I look forward to reading The
Chase and the other two stories included in Manhunting. Thanks, ladies!
Pat Cochran
Thanks Bettina! So true about being careful about who you show your work to.
Betina, re your last comment about not meaning to be negative–very often I’ve found that the best advice is the stuff we’d rather not hear. The ugly truth will help a lot more than pretty lies.
And “Be true to your own voice and story”–that should be cross-stitched into a sampler for writers to hang over their computers. You are witty and wise!
Welcome Betina! :flowers4you: Great post! I love your work. I can’t say I have a favorite, I love them all. Who are your favorite writers, what do you like to read
and what’s on your TBR list? 
Happy Weekend!
Thanks especially for the second piece of advice. A lot of times we’re not careful about who we show our work to.
I enjoyed the interview!
Great post! :snoopy:
Hi, Pat and Jeanne! thanks for dropping by to chat!
Heeeeey, Karen! Great to see you here! it feels like forever since I’ve seen you and the rest of the TARA gang. I miss you! Maybe soon I can get out from under deadlines to come to a meeting or two.
Lisa G., I have a lot of favorites. Right now my TBR pile is mostly on my new Nook– a birthday present from my fiance. It’s got Cindy Gerard, JR Ward, CL Wilson, Julie Leto, Michele Hauf, David Brin, Kresley Cole, James Rollins, Charlaine Harris, Lois Greiman, David Baldacci, Kylie Brant, Dean Koontz, Lori Handeland, Mary Jo Putney, Greg Isles, Clive Cussler, Kathleen Eagle. . . and just to show I’m not prejudiced against the “literary” writers, Brunonia Barry (The Lace Reader).
And by the way, I LOVE my Nook! Friends who had bought Kindles told me that once I went “electronic” I’d never want to go back. I’m not to that point yet, but I do love the Nook. The color covers on the smaller screen are just too cool! And with my cook “nook light”, I can read at night without disturbing my bedmate!
:flowers4you: welcome to the jungle. I always shop for books by author but will usually pick up someone unknown to me. Lately I have been choosing the guests on here to try and look forward to adding your name to my list of favorite authors.
Hi Betina,
Great post!
I going to be looking for your Books
Pat and Chey– I hope that when you do try one of my books you’ll drop by my web site and let me know what you think! It’s great to see you here!
Writing is such a solitary endeavor. . . I have to have me some “people” time now and again. What a great day– thanks so much, Julie and the rest of the Plot Monkeys, for having me over today!
Looking forward to reading your contemporary Blaze! Congrats! Sounds like you had a lot of support from family, friends and fellow authors. I’d love to read
The Chase to find out what happens to Samantha!
I just read a Blaze by you and really loved. I am so glad I discovered your books.
Betina, thanks so much for sharing that story with me! The heartfelt and helpful personal experiences that authors like yourself share really makes a difference to us aspiring authors. I won’t ever forget this story and if I’m ever in a book deal situation (I really hope I am one day!) I’ll remember your advice to your friend and remember to think about *me.*
I agree with some of the other commentors. I love Bettina’s historicals, and I hope she keeps writing them.
Thanks for the interview!
~Rebecca
Laurie and Debbie– thanks so much for stopping by!
Laurie I have been blessed with the support of a wonderful family and terrific friends. There are lots of ups and downs in publishing. I’d never have made it in the biz for so long without the grounding of good family and writing friends around me. Success is pretty hollow unless you have people to share it with.
And Debby– I hope you’ll let me know if you read The Chase and like it, too. Sam is a girl who learns from her mistakes and isn’t afraid to try again. I’d like to think that’s a good way to go.
Robin, warm wishes for your own writing career. If you haven’t already done so, find a few good writers who want to grow into better writers and keep in touch. Some of my best writing friends live halfway across the country; I’d never have met them if I hadn’t been at a conference. The adventure of romance writing and publishing brought us together and we’ve learned a lot from each other as we’ve journeyed along.
Julie, thanks so much for inviting me to blog today and for being such an enthusiastic and positive force in our writing community. And thanks to everyone who commented or even just read the blog and comments!
I’m off to celebrated the new book– I keep a bottle of good champagne in the fridge, cooled, for just such occasions. It never hurts to be prepared for a celebration!
Hi Betina,
It is so wonderful to have you here! Wow! What a lot of good advice you offered all of us aspiring writers! I am very impressed with your nuggets of wisdom which are inspiring gems to all of us waiting to be published. Yes, that is the big key to solicit your work to the right people, do your research beforehand, and learn to be patient. I have heard how so many famous authors had to resubmit there books so many times before they were published. Patience is a big key along with knowing who to submit it to.
A big congrats to you Betina! Your books are fantastic and you are a very classy lady! :applause:
I really enjoyed your interview your books sound great.
Hi, Betina! Late to say hi! Enjoyed your interview, and learning more about how you’ve perceived your voice changing as your writing’s evolved. I’ve got a bunch of your books on the TBR, and I’m glad to hear there are more to add–love the look of your latest Blaze!
Welcome, Betina. I look forward to checking out your books.
Hello Betina,
Welcome to Plotmonkeys. It was you interesting how you compared how you wrote your historicals and your new contemporaries. I’ll have to make sure I get the Blaze copy. :partygroup:
The more author stories I read, the less concerned I am about being published this minute. I WANT to work on my writing. I WANT it to be good. I WANT my backlist to be as engaging and well-written and fun to read as anything I publish.
So thanks for the reminder that I don’t need to accomplish this goal yesterday, I need to accomplish it when my work is up for the challenge of being in print forever.