Author

Laney Hatcher

SFN:

What gave you the idea to add writing books to your busy life and career?

 

LH:

I debuted with Penny Reid's Smartypants Romance. The first book idea I ever had (a Neanderthal Seeks Human historical romance re-telling) was very specific, and when submissions opened for Smartypants Romance, I bucked up the courage and sent in a chapter for consideration. I also did it in secret without telling anyone--not my husband or my friends or family. Other ideas came along that became my self-published series and I'm as surprised as anyone else. Writing seemed like such a far-fetched thing. I don't have an English degree and I'd never written for my school newspaper. Being an author was up there with being an astronaut or a rocket scientist. But Smartypants Romance gave me the avenue (and the confidence) to make writing a book a reality. I'll be forever grateful.

SFN:

What are your writing rituals?

LH:

I write at night. Typically, after my kids are in bed. I like it when the house is quiet. It gives my thoughts room to breathe.

SFN:

What's your favorite part of the process?

LH:

I like writing the messy scenes, the dark moments. I love it when emotions are high and dialogue is snappy. It's usually when I feel most in the zone and where the story is the most fleshed out beforehand in my mind. I know that some readers don't like a third-act breakup (and to each their own), but it's my absolute favorite part to write.

SFN:

What's the oddest object in your office or writing spot?

LH:

My husband got me one of those mini wacky-waving-inflatable-arm-flailing-tube-men. It's battery operated and about six inches tall and it makes me laugh. He thought I needed something fun on my desk, and he was right. Now my workspace has the vibe of a used car dealership.

SFN:

What is one trope or sub-genre you love but haven’t written yet?

LH:

Well, I'm making the jump to contemporary romance next year and I'm so excited to get started on that!