Ask the Author: Zoe Archer
Answered Questions (10)
Zoe Archer
For now, I'm going to continue writing historicals as Eva Leigh. If I do return to Zoë Archer, I will likely write something entirely different, such as contemporaries or perhaps erotic romance. Thanks for asking!
Zoe Archer
WICKED TEMPTATION is the third book in the Nemesis, Unlimited series, which I often describe to people as "Leverage/old-school A-Team in Victorian England," i.e. a secret organization dedicated to helping the helpless and bringing down powerful bad guys. This book is Marco's story, and he's Nemesis's resident spy. Because of that, I knew there would have to be a lot of espionage-like action within the story. So I drew on my love of spy stories and films to create the narrative. There's something about jumping from rooftop to rooftop and picking locks that I find really thrilling. :)
Zoe Archer
I find many of my ideas for writing in history. I'm particularly fascinated by women in male-dominated fields, and there are far more women in history who had careers than we know about. Some days, I need a break from writing, but it's pretty much a compulsion with me, so there isn't a shortage of inspiration.
Zoe Archer
Currently, I'm working on the second book in the Wicked Quills series I'm writing for Avon, which debuts Summer 2015. I'll be writing this series as Eva Leigh, and it's a more "traditional" Regency romance series, except it will still have all the hallmarks of a Zoe Archer book, namely smart, capable heroines and the heroes who love them.
Zoe Archer
Firstly, read. You cannot truly write if it's a one-sided conversation. That's actually a monologue, not a conversation. You need to see what other people are doing, what moves you, and even what doesn't work for you.
Secondly, write. I know that sounds obvious, but one of the biggest obstacles a writer has to her work is the act of writing itself. A book (or poem or screenplay) cannot exist unless it's on the page, not in your head. Also important is to give your work to others with the intent of gathering constructive criticism and feedback. An unread piece has only completed half of the journey. It's like taking a picture but not developing the film.
If you are an aspiring romance author, then I'd suggest joining the Romance Writers of America. They provide tremendous support and many resources to writers who want to break into the business, as well as networking and advocacy for those who are published. If you aren't a romance author, then do a search of local writing groups and join one. You'll gain support there, too, plus guidance and advice for moving forward with your work.
Secondly, write. I know that sounds obvious, but one of the biggest obstacles a writer has to her work is the act of writing itself. A book (or poem or screenplay) cannot exist unless it's on the page, not in your head. Also important is to give your work to others with the intent of gathering constructive criticism and feedback. An unread piece has only completed half of the journey. It's like taking a picture but not developing the film.
If you are an aspiring romance author, then I'd suggest joining the Romance Writers of America. They provide tremendous support and many resources to writers who want to break into the business, as well as networking and advocacy for those who are published. If you aren't a romance author, then do a search of local writing groups and join one. You'll gain support there, too, plus guidance and advice for moving forward with your work.
Zoe Archer
It's hard to pick just one thing that I enjoy the most out of being a writer, but I'd definitely say that connecting with readers--and knowing that readers are connecting with my books--is one of the highlights. Writing is such a solitary act that it can feel, at times, very isolating. It can be a challenge to see the fruits of your lonely work. But when I hear from or meet readers who like my work or engage with it, then it can definitely make those long, isolated hours, weeks, and months worth it.
Zoe Archer
Honestly, I don't get writer's block. There's always an abundance of ideas waiting to be written. Sometimes, I don't necessarily feel like writing. But I try to make myself write just a little on days when it feels as though I'm slogging through molasses. A deadline is definitely a good motivator!
Zoe Archer
Three things--the first is read. Read a ton. That's the best way to get a feel for what's out there, what resonates with you, and what doesn't work. Secondly, join the Romance Writers of America. It's a great organization geared towards advancing writers in their careers with tons of useful information, support, and guidance. Third, and most important, is to write. The only way you can move from a "wanna be" to "author" is to do it. Every day. Make a schedule. Stick to it. Let other people read it. An unread manuscript can't become a book.
Hope that helps!
Hope that helps!
Zoe Archer
Much as I would love to return, I think that the Blades series has finished its run. But their adventures continue...in my mind.
Zoe Archer
I think it plays a tremendous part in love stories. Yes, chemistry is involved, but when agency is removed and it becomes a matter of simply being told that a couple should be together, or that one of the pair believed they are meant to be in a relationship, then I have little faith in the relationship actually lasting beyond the end of the book. I also think it does a tremendous disservice to women to enforce notions that they themselves don't know their own hearts and minds, and that through sheer will, a man can "make" them fall in love with them--as though women are passive, childlike objects rather than fully actualized human beings. When there is parity between the two protagonists (regardless of gender), then the relationship is based on mutual respect, which, to me, is a stronger foundation, and that's where love can truly grow.
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