Looking back over your life can you see the early clues that you were going
to be a crime writer one day?
Nope. Writer yes, hints all over the place
from about third grade. Never thought that I might write an entire book, much
less three (numbers four and five in process).
I was a reporter for the high school
newspaper, a great paper writer in college, a freelancer once my kids were old
enough that I could reclaim adult forms of the English language. Served as a
newspaper editor and writer, did a lot of high class PR and marketing prose for
non-profits. Even learned how to make a case on paper for seven and
eight-figure donations, write for the web, and do speechwriting for VIPs.
But emulate any of the crime writers I was
in awe of? It took a lot of tiptoeing up to the idea before I got up the nerve
to put one of those toes in the water. I’m still in awe of the classic crime
writers and the remarkable crop of current ones, especially those I’m
privileged to know.
Plug: If you’re reading this and are feeling
like dipping your toe in the waters of crime fiction writing, check out Sisters
in Crime. No matter how successful any of us are, we remember that beginning,
knee-knocking sensation, and we’ll make sure you know you’re among supportive
fellow writers who will cheer you, cheer you up, and be the first to celebrate
your successes!
-from Susan
So great to hear about your writing past, Susan! And I second the great plug for Sisters in Crime.
ReplyDeleteAnd I third it!
ReplyDelete