Interview with Red L. Jameson
Published 2014-09-11.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote?
Yes, I was about six at the time and tried to write a story about a fairy in a flower. Unfortunately, I couldn't write the words I wanted to use, so I invented a new alphabet to compensate. I even made a red construction paper cover for it, complete with yellow yarn binding it. I loved it!
What is your writing process?
Gosh, with each book it seems to change. Usually scenes come to me at the most inconvenient of times, and eventually they start to frame the story. I try to do a little preliminary plotting for the book, but often by the thirtieth page the characters start bossing me around, telling me more of what they want to happen than anything I had planned. Sometimes I fight them. But they always win. By the time I finish the book, it isn't what I'd originally imagined, but often much better.
What are your five favorite books, and why?
The writing that changed my life, in no particular order . . .
Shakespeare's HAMLET
Poe's "The Raven"
Lee's TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD
Kingston Hong's THE WOMAN WARRIOR
And everything by the Brothers Grimm
What do you read for pleasure?
Everything. I am a wee bit picky about what I read, but I have no favorite genre . . . yet.
Describe your desk
Cluttered notes abound, a picture of my son when he was a toddler, a small chest with precious plot notes, a snow globe with a smiling ghost, candles--not a great choice considering all the paper, office supplies, Chapstick, far too many sticky notes, a cork board full of thoughts and inspirational thoughts, and my Precious--my Mac laptop. I covet this baby more than a Gollum wants that golden ring. Seriously. I heart my laptop that much.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in Montana. Most of my writing centers around open spaces like my home state. Many of my characters are farmers too. But mainly I think I have a good feel for the colors of the land--the red and bone colors of earth, the mixed hues of wildflowers, the vibrancy of sunsets. All of this reflects in my writing.
When did you first start writing?
At six. I never took it seriously until I was in my thirties though. So much time wasted, trying to run from this dream.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
There are two joys I've experienced now: 1.) when I'm so involved with my writing, and things are working for me, and I'm abso-freaking-lutely in love with everything--it's a resonating feeling as if I'm finally in tune with myself and the world. And, 2.) when I hear from the people who read my work, and they love it. I love, love, love hearing from my readers!
What do your fans mean to you?
So much! I am humbled by their support and kindness. I hope to keep writing stories they enjoy.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
My son. I am such a lucky mom, because he is so amazing. I am blessed to watch him in this journey of life. And I love writing. I'm still in awe that I have had readers write to me, so that always helps me wake up with a wide smile.
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Latest books by This Author
All the Mustangs in Montana
by Red L. Jameson
A modern marriage of convenience between two Formula One racers--the last thing they need to do is fall in love. But goats and '80s pop love songs have other plans.
Through Her Eyes
by Red L. Jameson
Two sisters keeping a dark secret from each other, though the truth will come out one way or another. A romantic women's fiction novel filled with sibling rivalry and love.
Shared History
by Red L. Jameson
He wants to find the truth for a nearly 200-year-old mystery and finds so much more with a ragtag team of absentminded professors and his recent crush.
Wild Rose Water
by Red L. Jameson
Suicidal after losing her only child to fentanyl, Karen returns to Montana, and to Darren, her childhood friend turned farmer poet, hoping the magic of mountains holding hands with glaciers, barley fields, wild roses, and swimming in irrigation ditches on hot summer nights will save her life.
Bad Medicine
by Red L. Jameson
(5.00 from 2 reviews)
He's a tattooed, rough ER nurse. She's a geeky MD who wants to play doctor with her nurse. But he wants more. He wants love.
View their profile to see all of their books