AUTHOR INTERVIEW: MJ Rose

We are so thrilled to have the fabulous MJ Rose here today, talking about her latest novel, THE MEMORIST. Not only is MJ a kick ass author, but she is also the creator of one of the publishing industry's most influential blogs, Buzz, Balls and Hype, as well as Author Buzz, the marketing program for authors.

But today it's all about MJ and her writing. So, without further ado, let's ask MJ some questions!


1. Tell us about your most recent novel, THE MEMORIST, in 25 words or less.

Suspense.
Reincarnation.
Mystery.
Mediation.
Israeli Journalist.
False Memories.
Vienna.
Beethoven.
1812.
Murder.
Binaural Beats.
Ancient Flute made of Human Bone.
Jewish Indiana Jones.
Historical Thriller.

[MJ: You had me at Jewish Indiana Jones. You had me at Jewish Indy....]

2. How do you fight writer’s block?

I honestly believe writer's block comes from a few things:
A: Not knowing your characters well enough and rushing into writing the book before you've gotten them under your skin and done enough research.
B: Writing what you know instead what you want to know about because unless you're amazingly fascinating you'll get through what you know by book 2 or 3 and then what will you do.

Once I figured that out that stuff I haven't suffered dreaded writer's block.

3. What is your favorite part of writing? Least favorite?

Third and fourth drafts are my favorite. I can just keep nuancing the work and the hardest part is done which leads me to least favorite - the first draft is so damn tough. I'm not a good outline person.

4. What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Don't give up your day job. Only write because you love it so much you think you'd go crazy if you couldn't do it. Spend at least 25% of your advance on marketing.


5. How do you usually begin your stories—with a character or with a plot?

With a plot—more like a "what if" and then I have to have the title. Then I spend three months working on the main character and doing research.


Thanks for coming by, MJ! If you'd like to find out more about MJ Rose, check out her website. And if you'd like to enter to win a copy of THE MEMORIST, check out our book giveaway, going on right now!