#AuthorInterview Geraldine Solon #womensfiction

1.     Hi Geraldine Solon tell us a bit about your latest book.

My latest novel, The Assignment is set in the Philippines and is about a travel journalist who gets assigned to the Philippines to feature a documentary of a writer/artist that was captured by the Japanese soldiers during World War II. The novel explores themes of love, betrayal and forgiveness.

2.     Sounds very dramatic. Can't wait to read it. What genres do you like to write in? Do you pay attention to genre rules or bend them?

I write Women's Fiction and Romance. Upon completing my novels, I look at the bigger picture first before focusing on the minor details. It’s important for me to have a solid structure, believable characters and an exciting and meaningful plot.

3.     Absolutely. What kind of books do you like to read? Which authors influenced you?

I read all genres except for the sci-fi and fantasy. My favorite genre is Women’s fiction. My favorite authors that have influenced me are, Danielle Steele, Kristin Hannah, Eileen Goudge, Nicholas Sparks and Nora Ephron.

4.     Same here. I like Anne Rivers Siddons and Melissa Foster and their dramatic characters and unexpected plots. Are you a character driven or plot driven writer?

Very much character driven.

5.     Do you have any advice for writers who are just starting out?

New writers need to know the difference between art and craft. Art is raw talent but art requires craft. I’ve met so many new writers who dive into writing novels without a clue about structure, voice, characterization, POV, setting, etc. etc. I never cease to continue learning about the craft of writing and I would encourage other writers to do that.

Learning is a everlasting project, but fun. Who is your favorite character?

I was emotionally attached to Marina Suarez. Her passion, strength and determination is the epitome of a powerful woman.

Sounds like my type of character, although my female leads tend to also have weaknesses. Who was your most difficult character?

Marina Suarez was also the most difficult character to write about. It was very painful to write about the adversity and tragedy she had to go through.

Yes, that is so true. My most difficult one was Maryanne Torres for the same reason. You don’t have to tell us, but who in your life did you pattern him/her after?

All the characters were figments of my imagination. However, since I grew up in the Philippines, I portrayed the history, culture and values of the Filipino people through the events and characters.

Yay! Mabuhay! Any kissing scenes?

Yes, definitely. J

Ha, ha, no elaboration? You're so coy. What sparked the idea for The Assignment?

I’ve been wanting to write a story that is set in the Philippines. Not many people are aware about the history and culture and I believe there’s so much stories to share. I’m glad I did because this is my favorite book so far.

I can't wait to read it. My next protag is Pinay and I haven't decided whether she has ever visited the Philippines or not. Describe a scene in your book where you would have liked to be in. Which character would you be and what would you have done instead?

I would love to be Sophie Matthews, the journalist who travels around the world writing documentaries. Writing and traveling are my two favorite interests, and exploring new places broadens my knowledge and horizons. I wouldn’t change anything if I were to live her life.

I know what you mean. I've been bugging my husband to travel more so I can see and describe new places. If you could go back and change the ending to any novel you’d like, which would it be and what would be the change?

The ending actually has a twist and I’m very happy I chose to end the book this way because it was perfect. I wouldn’t change it.

Love twists! Have you ever fallen in love with one of your characters? Was your husband jealous?

Definitely! I have to create and write characters that are lovable and charming or else I wouldn’t be emotionally attached to them. No, my hubby doesn’t get jealous. He knows I have to spend time with my imaginary friends. LOL!

Whew, good that he's so understanding. What is your greatest fear?

My greatest fears are dying young and losing a loved one. I write about the things I care about and what I fear most.

What keeps you up at night?

My imaginary friends talking to me. LOL!

Any advice for upcoming authors?

Write! Write! Write! Stay focused. Learn about the publishing business and being an authorpreneur. Join a writers group/club or community where you can network with other writers to help advance your career.

What is one thing you wish you knew before you began this journey?

That it was much harder than I thought. LOL!

Tell me what a typical day looks like.

Since I have a day job, I work till 2:30 p.m. then pick up my son from school. When I reach home, I spend two hours doing research about publishing, promoting and latest trends. I read a lot of blogs and articles and promote through social media. I usually write at night when everyone is asleep.

Same here, but you sound more efficient than me. What do you want your readers to walk away with after reading your novel?

That they were touched by my story and that it kept them reading all night. I also want them to be able to grasp the themes and learn something about the story.

Describe your childhood. What were some of your favorite activities? Games?

I grew up in the Philippines and had the best childhood. We spent every weekend swimming in the islands with family and friends. My neighbors were my closest friends and even if thirty years have passed, we’re still very close.

Sounds like you love to visit them still. Did you dream of being a writer or something else?

I always dreamed of becoming a writer. At an early age of eight, I wrote poems and short stories. Back then, writing was just a hobby and I was busy doing other things. It was only till I turned thirty years old that I decided to take this hobby into a career and I’m glad I did.

What is something no one, not even your husband/wife knows about you?

That’s a tough one. With me, what you see is what you get, no qualms and no pretense. People close to me know me as funny, unconventional in the outside and passionate and profound in the inside.

Thanks so much for talking to us. I feel we really got to know you. Good luck on your newest book!

Thanks so much for hosting me today. I enjoyed answering your questions.

AUTHOR BIO: Geraldine Solon is the award-winning, best-selling author of Women’s fiction and Romance novels. Two of her books have been adapted into film. Geraldine is the Managing Editor of Gastronomique en Vogue, a fashion, food and lifestyle magazine. She is also the Event Planner for the Fremont Area Writers club and Writing for Life workshops. You can learn more about her work at www.geraldinesolon.com

You can also follow me on Twitter at @GeraldineSolon and Facebook 

Geraldine's best-selling books:

Come meet Geraldine March 8, 2013 in San Francisco, CA