How long does it take you to write a novel and how detailed is your outline? The time varies by novel, but once I actually start writing, I aim for a complete draft in seven to nine months. After that, an editing and rewriting phase takes a few more months. While I’m editing one book, I’m starting the next. As I write this, Concierge (available Summer 2017) is in the editing and rewriting phase, and I’m conceptualizing my next novel.
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My debut novel, Deceived, is based in New Orleans, Louisiana, a city that I’ve lived in and around all of my life. More than a setting, the city defines the mystery elements, the backstory for the characters, and the logic behind how the story unfolded. Here’s a glimpse of some New Orleans-based inspiration:
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Midnight; in vehicle, en route to the New Orleans Lakefront Airport, where Agent Jesus (“Zeus”) Hernandez will depart for Paris, France; commencing the job that will become Jigsaw, A Black Raven Novel. {Interview by Roux Barcelona, Papillon, AP Field Correspondent} Roux: Hello, Agent Hernandez. I’m Roux Barcelona. I appreciate you talking to me despite the… READ MORE
As I write this, I’m having a real-life special day, for which I’m grateful. I’m sitting on our boat in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. We’re docked near the Intracoastal Waterway. My husband is enjoying the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show and I’ve stayed behind with our papillons. I’m spending most of the day writing a dark romance… READ MORE
Dear Stella, When did you first know that you wanted to be a writer? And when are you writing another story set in New Orleans? ~ Amy W. Hi Amy, Two very different questions! My dream of being a writer began when I was really, really young. Maybe 7 years old? Or 8? Perhaps it… READ MORE
Are you a pop music fan? I love it, and listen to it as I write. I slip into my writing chair, put on my earphones, and crank up the volume—the louder the better. I’m not a music critic. To be honest, there’s a strong likelihood I’m tone deaf. It’s difficult to explain why music… READ MORE
Deceived is set in New Orleans; Jigsaw takes place in Paris, and elsewhere. To celebrate Jigsaw’s June 30th release day, I’ve put together a book lovers gift box with reflections of both cities. Enter from Wednesday, June 29 (6 p.m. CST) to Tuesday, July 5 (8 p.m. CST) Giveaway includes: a Kindle Paperwhite + $25… READ MORE
Deceived is set in New Orleans; Jigsaw opens in Paris. To announce Jigsaw’s eBook preorder availability on Amazon beginning May 16, I put together a fantastic gift box that celebrates both cities! The contest will run from 6pm CST on Monday, May 16th through 8pm CST on Wednesday, May 18th. Enter now to win: Mignon Faget Sterling Silver Fleur-de-… READ MORE
Giveaway Runs From Saturday, April 30, 2016, 7 p.m. Central Time through Monday, May 2, 2016, at 8 p.m. Central Time
In anticipation of the June release of Jigsaw, I’ve put together a gift box you won’t want to miss!
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It’s hard to believe that it’s been two years since my last website post. Without dwelling on the reasons behind my extended absence, I’ll say that the pandemic certainly didn’t help my struggles. If you’ve also had a rough time lately, I sincerely hope that better times are ahead. Recently, as my personal fog lifted,… READ MORE