Jeanette Collins Interview Published on: 07, Feb 2023
Tell us a little bit about your childhood and where you grew up.
I grew up in the southern United States. From the early days, I longed to go north, where I imagined Culture and The Arts lived.
What are some of the most memorable books you read as a child?When I was about five, my parents brought a fine set of children’s books, one of which was ‘Stories of Myths and Legends’. I soon learned about the Greeks, their ideals, Gods and stories, and was enthralled. This laid down an imprint, a structure, and a set of values I have retained.
At what age did you paint your first picture? Do you remember what it was?Always drawing as a child, I wanted to be a painter, as well as a singer on Broadway, and an archeologist.
What made you realize that you wanted to be a writer?I wrote poems on every surface available; the painter won out, and that is where I spent my career. But the words were there, waiting, and when the time came, in 2003 or so, I began to write full-time.
Why did you title your book, Norah Waverly after the main character?I titled one of my books ‘Norah Waverly’ because that’s what the book is about, her mysterious life, and even stranger destiny.
Which one do you prefer: writing a series or a standalone novel? Why?I have written a number of Contemporary Westerns in a series; ‘Elena Chavez’ is one of these. My Regency Historicals are all standalone.
How did you come up with the plot of your novel, The Gamble? Why did you not choose any character's name from the book as the book title?In ‘Found Christmas’ every woman would like to meet the dashing, handsome, Captain Adrian Dewar. In ‘The Gamble’, daring Allan Rutledge will steal your heart.
How do you usually come up with character names?Names come to me whole and entire, and for me, express the character of the named. I write them down and know them. When I create women characters, how can I go wrong? I know many and am one myself.
Which option do you prefer, reading some books or watching movies adapted from them?Books beat movies hands down, but I love movies, too.
What are some aspirations you have for your future as an author?My main aspiration is to write well, and have the books and poetry I make read by a willing heart.
How were you first introduced to AllAuthor? Do you have any feedback?AllAuthor has been great.
