Last week we posted about Blow Me, the new novel by Lennie Ross. The novel focuses on three single ladies nearing forty who are looking for love. We couldn't wait to speak to the lovely Lennie and find out more!
Please describe your latest book in 15 words or fewer.
Three women hovering precariously close to forty looking for love in the City of Angels.
What inspired you to write Blow Me?
So many chick lit novels take place in New York, so I wanted to represent Los Angeles. As well, I really think the women of Los Angeles have struggles that are specific to the city, so I wanted to portray that in all it's craziness.
Where do you do most of your writing?
I am a traditional writer. I sit at home at my desk and write there. Occasionally I write on airplanes or in hotel rooms if I'm traveling, but I get my best work done when I'm at home with my cats.
What is your favourite book?
I love so many books, I honestly don't have a favorite. I don't have a favorite movie, book, song or anything. I probably have more of a top ten, but even that I'm not willing to commit to. My list ebbs and flows.
Which part of Blow Me was the most enjoyable to write?
The whole thing was enjoyable. What was challenging was editing it. I wrote 160,000 words the first go around and only needed about 95,000. But, even in the editing process it was fun. I love the entire book. I guess there are some chapters that speak to me more than others. I like when certain events kind of come together in a culmination. So, look out for those chapters when you're reading and you'll know those were the most fun to write.
What are you currently reading?
I'm currently reading several books. Steve Jobs Biography, Keith Richards Biography, and The Second Assistant. Unfortunately, I don't have that much time to read except when I'm on airplanes.
Who is your favourite heroine?
Again, sorry, I don't have a favorite.
Do you have any tips for readers who are looking to become published authors?
Write, write and write some more. If you're looking to be published as a novelist, agents and publishers will want to know that you can churn out more than just one book. So it would be best to approach them when you have one completed work, and outlines with sample chapters with at least two more books in the same genre. It's also important to stick to the same genre, so they can market you as a specific type of writer. If you decide to self-publish, just realize that marketing and publicity are very expensive, and a tremendous amount of work which will take you away from writing.
Are you working on anything else at the moment and if so, can you tell us?
I am working on a pitch for a TV series that has absolutely nothing to do with my book. Unfortunately, they feel that the market is saturated with Sex and the City style material, so my novel won't become a TV series any time soon.
I am also working on my next novel, which takes place in both Los Angeles and Kauai.
Thanks, Lennie!
You can find out more about Lennie Ross and her work over at her website.
