September 2007 Spotlight on...

      SANDRA FERGUSON

           by Gina Lee Nelson

Let’s continue to celebrate the 20^th anniversary of North Texas RWA by spotlighting our PRO Liaison, Sandra Ferguson.

Alright, Sandra, let’s begin. How long have you been writing?

Does before dinosaurs roamed the earth count as an answer? Okay, okay, I've really been writing on and off for ten years -- give or take a year or two. However, some of my writing endeavors have been more off than on.

Was there a point when you decided you really wanted to do this, to be published? If so, what did you say to yourself?

 I'd love to say I had an epiphany at some point, or even a parting of the waters that led me in the direction of publication -- nothing so inspirational happened. I selfishly like telling stories, and sometimes I'm even good at it. If I make someone feel better, or deeper, or truer because of my written words then that's good enough. Oddly enough, late last year, when an unbelievable amount of personal chaos was taking place in my life, I was truly ready to give up the fiction writing. I'd had small successes in the non-fic arena and it paid -- how could I not pursue that? Then in a fit or a frenzy or just plain stubbornness, I sent out Harm’s Way to several e-publishers at the same time. Amazingly, at least to me, The Wild Rose Press wanted the first three chapters after reading my synopsis. Then the editor wanted the complete manuscript. Then the editor offered a contract -- all within three weeks. When her last email came in praising Harm’s Way as a great read, I felt the jolt of success. Moral of the writing story -- tenacity sells. Think pit bull or crab or the Jaws of Life. Whatever a writer needs to hang on, that's the image to keep.  

Tell us a little about yourself, and a little about your family too.

Texas born and bred and darn proud of it. Born in Austin, lived all over the state and graduated from the University of North Texas – Go, Mean Green. I’m a stay-at-home mom (thanks to a lot of sacrifices and a terrific husband). I've been very active in the PTA; even now I serve as a lifetime member. I served in every position including President. The experience was invaluable. I can throw a party for 2,000 people and plan a Carnival for 800 kids without ever breaking a sweat. 

My hubby is wonderful -- true hero material. A few weeks back, our lovely Sheryl Maas (who many of you may remember from her NT days) came over from The Netherlands with her children for a visit. I invited over the ladies from our old critique group, kids included. My husband decided snacks weren't enough and grilled hot dogs and hamburgers to feed twenty people. Did I ask him to do this? NO. He simply knows how much the women of my critique group mean to me. During our twenty-six years of marriage, he's always been like that. Best husband memory: He arranged a surprise 20th anniversary trip to Vancouver, BC. It's easy to write heroes when you live with one everyday. My children -- not so little anymore -- are 19 (a sophomore at Texas A & M -- Gig 'em, Aggies), 16 and 13. They're brilliant and beautiful, of course, and I could never have managed to find publication success without their support. They are my cheering section.  

Who are your favorite authors and why?

Ayn Rand, because no one does it better. Historicals: our lovely Geralyn Dawson, Jodi Thomas, and Anne Campbell; Contemporary: Sherrilyn Kenyon, Lisa Jackson, Lisa Gardner, Deborah Smith, and Annie Solomon. Of course, there are our NT authors: Terry Southwick's sheik series, Judi McCoy for when I SO need to laugh, Shelly Bradley when I like it dark, Candy and Von when I need paranormal that isn't my life, and my 19-year-old is absolutely addicted to Rosemary Clement-Moore.  

What do you struggle with as a writer?

Character names. Right now, I have a blog up asking people to chime in on how they name their characters. A name normally pops into my head, but I may end up deleting it and coming up with a new one several times. I'm not always pleased with the end results. I stink at titles. Forget it, no can do. And I never understand theme. I think I blocked it out from high school and college English. I rely on my critique partners or my oldest daughter, who is an English major, to read the work and tell me the theme of my book. One always exists. Don't ask me how -- I don't get it. I mean I really don't get it.

What advice do you have for other writers?

Practice tenacity. Get in a supportive, dedicated critique group. Schedule writing time, daily. Try to write different things -- greeting cards, articles, blogs -- it all adds up to additional writing skills. Read outside the genre. Practice tenacity. Spend time people watching or enjoying a sunset. Take a walk and then journal about it. Learn new words. Study the writers you like the most, dissect their books. Listen to your own gut instinct regarding your writing. Oh yeah, did I mention practice tenacity? There is no 'quit' in writing.

I love your advice for other writers! What are you working on now?

Trickle of Lies is the working title for my next 100K romantic suspense. Trickle of Lies is . . . well, think The Pelican Brief meets Jessie Stone (played by Tom Selleck on the made for TV movies).

We know you’ve recently published your first book. What about the process surprised you?

All of it.

 

Now my favorite question: What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?

Personally, that’s easy:  my children and my 26-year marriage. Professionally:  all the writing I've done, not just what's been published. And that I've shown perseverance and never given up.

 ~ ~ ~

Gina Lee Nelson recently completed her first tender romance, PLAY IT LOUD. She’s currently working on a Young Adult Fantasy.