Welcome, we are talking with Harris Channing! First of all, I would like to thank you for taking time out of your busy writing schedule to answer a few questions.
When did you first decide to become a writer and what was your first inspiration?
For as long as I can remember I would tell myself bedtime stories. It helped me to relax. I still try to work out plot problems in my sleep and many times when I wake up I’ll have figured out what I need to do.
As for actually deciding to be a writer, I had some personal issues crop up when I was in college and I used writing as an escape. So, I’ve thought about it for many years. In 2005 I picked up an old manuscript and have since actively worked toward becoming an author.
Do you write any other books other than erotic?
Yes, my first love is historical romance. I have several complete but hopelessly flawed books mouldering in the attic. But I hope to get a novel I’ve been working on for some time now finished.
Besides the historical, I’m currently working on a paranormal romance and a contemporary romance.
Can you tell our readers a little bit about your story in “My Funny Valentine”?
“Curses and Kisses” was a lot of fun to write. I put poor Marianne through the wringer! But she’s a good sport…
Here’s the blurb:
According to Madame Xavier, Maryanne Mills Valentine’s days are cursed until she finds true love. Join Maryanne in her humorous, almost romantic escapades and wrong turn on the path to happily ever after.
How did the idea for this story come to you?
Whiskey Creek Press had a call for submissions and I wanted to try my hand at humor. I found I enjoyed using my sarcasm in my work! As for the idea, I sat down to write and thought, what would make someone hate Valentine’s day besides the obvious…being alone. I made loneliness the least of Marianne’s worries.
Do you have a set routine for writing a book?
I have attempted several times to have a routine or schedule but with my hectic life, it makes that impossible. I call myself a jigsaw puzzle writer. I fit it in where I can. I would love to be able to sit down and write three hours a day without distraction. It just doesn’t happen.
What is your favorite part of being a writer?
When the ideas are flowing freely and the characters and muse are cooperating, it’s great. There’s an amazing feeling when all the ‘stars’ align and everything is running smoothly.
What do you like the least?
Writer’s block! I’m having a rough patch with that right now…it feels terrible. Sitting with a half finished scene without any place to go. You know it’s time to step back and take a break and hope that the subconscious kicks in and helps you out!
Besides writer’s block? A bad review or when a reader gives your book a low rating. No matter how thick your skin is, if you hear a negative about your work, it really does hurt.
What do you consider to be the key elements of a great story?
Two things come to mind with this question. One being, a well plotted book. I hate when you’re reading along, things are getting good, the climax is coming and the entire plot unravels and there’s a plot hole you can drive a truck through. It’s like….what happened?
Second, I love strong characters. If you have an interesting, unique and maybe even quirky protagonist, I’m pretty much hooked.
What would you say is your hardest part in composing a book, the beginning, the middle or the ending?
Definitely the middle. You want to keep your reader interested and still get the key plot points introduced without being obvious or God forbid, tedious. The ending is what most people will remember but getting there is the hard part.
How can readers get in contact with you or learn more about you?
Readers are welcome to contact me at harrischanning@yahoo.com
I also have a website: http://harrischanning.bravehost.com/
a blog: http://harrischanningauthor.blogspot.com/
and a myspace page: http://www.myspace.com/harrischanning
not to mention a page on Coffee Time Romance and More!
https://coffeetimeromance.com/board/userpage.php?do=main&userid=159
Finally, any last thoughts you would like to leave with our readers?
Just my thanks.
Thank you very much for spending time with us here at Coffee Time Romance. We wish you continued success.
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