Author Spotlight - Judy Jarvie

I'm very pleased to welcome my lovely friend, Judy Jarvie, to the Minx blog today.

Hi Judy, can you tell our readers a little bit about yourself? 
Hi – I’m a stay at home mum who lives in a village in Fife, Scotland and has a major fixation with reading and writing romance. I have books published with E-Scape Press, The Wild Rose Press and My Weekly Pocket Novels. Other hobbies are knitting, making soup and eating nice things which makes me sounds dull, hermit-like and possibly mad, sad and dangerous to know but I like a good laugh and lots of frivolity so don’t believe my own boring hype.

What number book is this? First? 100th? 200th?(Nora only!) 
Book five is Instruction In Seduction released December 2012 from E-Scape Press. To be closely followed in Jan 2013 by Taking On The Texan also published by E-Scape Press (Taking On The Texan was first released as Secret Billionaire by Bridges and Knight Easy Reads from DC Thomson)

Everyone who writes knows it's not easy - what methods do you use to keep at it on days when it would be so much easier to go shoe shopping? 
Sometimes I just don’t do it. I think it’s important to switch off and just not write so that your minds gets some rest time. And there’s no better way to get your mind back on writing than to consciously walk away from it. My biggest light bulbs have come in the shower, out for a walk or at a zumba class, sometimes in a traffic queue. It’s good not to write too – refilling the well is vital.

What is your top promo tip for other authors?
I’m not great a promo. I have a blog and website and I use facebook like someone who tinkers only and doesn’t quite understand or slash is scared by it all. But I think it’s good to be open to trying new things. And it’s always good to expand promo horizons.

How does writing fit into your day? Or does your day fit in around your writing?
I like to write early in the day (especially when the kids are at school). Though if I’m struggling to write I will write at any time just to keep the momentum.

Do you write every day? 
I try to but it doesn’t always happen when life intervenes. And I like to take a break between books to replenish.

Which blog(s) do you read regularly? 
I used to read blogs a lot. These days I am being cyber frugal! Just because I am choosing to read a lot of books instead which is all to the good!

In what way is being a published writer different to how you thought it would be? 
No different at all. But I am far more nit picky about getting a polished draft than I was at the start (hangs head in shame!) Maybe I’m just getting better and mistook spotting.

What was the most fun part of writing this book? 
Instruction In Seduction is set in Edinburgh at New Year. It’s got a fun quirk and it’s sexy in tone. It’s got lots of places I love in it and a hero I want for my very own. What’s more to love?

At what point in your career did you actually start to feel like you were a writer? 
I thought I was a writer at primary school when I won money in a competition because my poem about the beach came first and got published. I bought a fancy pen with the spoils. It became addictive from there.

Thanks for having me!

Thank you for popping by today, Judy.

It's a very exciting time for Judy as she has two new books out now/soon. The first is Instruction in Seduction, the second is Taking on the Texan. Here's a little about both.


Instruction In Seduction: It’s Edinburgh, it’s New Year and Ailsa is on the verge of a new improved sex life! She’s unveiling a sassy resolution - a sex life makeover to turn her into a ‘va va voom vamp’. Nick is the Aussie Adonis she lusted over when he was her boss. Thanks to Nick, Ailsa’s about to achieve her ‘vamp’ aspirations. But Nick has to spoil the fun by developing deep feelings for Ailsa...

Instruction In Seduction is available from Amazon.co.uk and from Amazon.com


Taking On The Texan: Scottish soap-maker Jess Gilmour is too busy for a man in her life – but when a strong and smooth Texan cowboy sweeps her off her feet there’s a spark in her spurs to take a chance on romance. Texan rancher Gabe Garrett can’t help engaging with sweet but sassy Jess. He’s in the highlands for a wedding that marks his brother’s relocation from Texas, but soon he’s confiding his misgivings to Jess and keen to know more. Jess’s surprise visit to Broken Bridle Ranch could prove to be a visa to lassoing the dream but given that she has no idea about Gabe’s biggest secret, the gorgeous cowboy might be too much for the quiet, steady Scots business woman to take … coming soon mid January 2013

You can find out more about Judy on her blog here.

Author Spotlight - Judy Jarvie

We're delighted to welcome lovely Judy Jarvie to our spotlight today. Here are Judy's answers to our minxy questions...

What is your writing process?

I'm wincing to admit I don't have a process as such. I just write when I can because my youngest child is only just about to start school so I've grabbed time whenever I can do it and I continue that way. I've found NaNoWriMo a very helpful process - it made me appreciate the value of just getting a dirty draft done (and lovely Harlequin author Natalie Anderson introduced me to NaNoWriMo first). I find now that I have to dip in and out of projects in order to refill the well and keep momentum.

Everyone who writes knows it's not easy - what methods do you use to keep at it on days when it would be so much easier to go shoe shopping?

I like to give myself a words quota to get done though again it's just not possible every day - it's all about taking control a bit like my recent dieting! So if it's not a good day - just being in control by making some notes in my pad is a tick for progress. You just keep doing what works and moves you forward is my motto.

Keeping fit: Do you have an exercise regime to counterbalance all those hours sitting at a computer?

As indicated above I've been dieting (so far lost 18lbs (yey but there have been good days and bad!). So I've taken up new activities (walking and zumba). Ironically they also provide essential time to think/time to drift off. I am finding I come up with lightbulb moments in 'active time' so it's all good. Plus it's nice to know it's shaving inches off my behind too!

Do you believe in writer's block?

I believe you can put too much pressure on yourself. A lovely writer friend told me once that it's absolutely vital to refill the well and I heartily buy into that. Sometimes I just need a break so I won't force it. I need to do all the other things I love - e.g. family time, reading, crafts, baking and having a life! Though I love writing with a passion I guess it's all about balance and I try not to get too het up about taking time away. Being able to return refreshed and fired up again is worth the break. If I am finding it too hard going I either switch project or take some time out - I usually end up back at the computer pretty soon.

Have you ever used an incident from real life in a book? If so, did it get you into trouble?

I have 'fictionalised' real life situations. I did have to admit to my mum's friend that I'd taken her 'embarrassing incident' and used it in a published short story. She took it very well and requested a copy - even when it involved a rather garish comedy picture of the  heroine lying on the payement on a hen night! She's still my mother's friend and I'd tweaked the story and upped the stakes anyway and nobody would ever guess the identity of the woman who started it all.

In what way is being a published writer different to how you thought it would be?

I knew from secondary school age that I loved writing, especially fiction. At the time I figured that meant becoming a journalist. I went into PR and then turned to fiction writing later because I still had the urge. I always knew I wanted to write stories and romances. I feel very privileged that I can do what I love so much.

Promotion is no longer a dirty word. In what ways do you strive to reach more readers?

Despite doing marketing qualifications in the past there's a tiny part of of me that doesn't want to get all promo pushy because writing still feels personal. But I agree that promo is vital. I think web and social media presence help as well as cultivating a network of writing buddies. It's just about good pre-planning and using opportunities well. A willingness to keep trying new things is vital too.

What is your top promo tip for other authors? 

Take yourself seriously from an early point even if it feels like the only person who might look at your website and WIP is your Granny. Having a professional facade will feed into everything else and it shows you have it all under control and you're serious and committed to driving your aims forward. It's all about having a positive attitude!

What did you learn while writing this book?

Pitched Into Love was published this year by My Weekly Pocket Novels. It's now being published by E-scape Press as Falling For The Laird in e-format in their brand new exciting imprint Ballgown Books which is due to be launched imminently. Coincidentally it is the first book I ever tried to write. It sat in a cupboard for a long time as I knew I had work to do to bring it up to standard. Last year I realised what I had to do (which basically amounted to cutting for pace and adding more drama to keep pages turning better plus giving the heroine and hero more of a growing relationship as friends besides the attraction!) I'm very glad I finally sat down and started over. It showed me that I wasn't a million miles away, I've just learned to tweak the fine points better!

What was the most fun part of writing this book?

I love this book because it reminds me of an old favourite BBC programme - Monarch of the Glen. It's set on a highland estate in Scotland and there are quirky local characters. It's the kind of story that appeals to me and I still watch old episodes of the show.

And just for fun: what would your hero’s honeymoon destination of choice be?

Hot Scot Jack McGregor is a very modern highland laird and he's also a multi-tasker - he runs an estate and he's a doctor plus he's refurbished his castle hotel! He's no stranger to hard work so I think he'd take a well earned break somewhere indulgent so he could be pampered for a change - let's go for Mauritius! Let's face it we Scots deserve a bit of sunshine and a beachy paradise and Jack and Steph deserve a sun-drenches get-away retreat.



Falling For The Laird will be published soon by exciting new book line venture Ballgown Books (part of E-Scape Press). If you like an escapist read that's intense and brimming with romance and glamour, Ballgown Books is a perfect destination for the read of your dreams. More information soon from E-Scape Press at escapewithabook.com. This title will also be released as Pitched Into Love large print from Ulverscroft in December 2012.

Falling For The Laird by Judy Jarvie

Steph Baxter goes to the highlands to help out her pregnant friend  Ally and her husband. She doesn't expect to end up battling to help save  their stunning movie-style castle hotel. Or  to wind up assisting and  falling for its equally impressive part-owner Jack McGregor! Steph's  highland adventure brings a tough mission, a hot man and a massive  challenge for a woman who likes to give every task 100%.



Go to judyj.blogspot.com - buy links to follow soon and the launch of Ballgown Books is just around the corner and will be fully flagged.

Author Spotlight - Judy Jarvie

Today we're very delighted to welcome author Judy Jarvie to the Minxes. Judy has had two new releases out in quick succession, Flirting With The Fireman and Nanny Behaving Badly. I've read the first, and have to tell you, if you're looking for a funny, touching and romantic read, this is the one! I haven't got to Nanny Behaving Badly yet, but it's on my TBR pile!

Without further ado, here's Judy.

1. Where were you in your writing career 5 years ago?

I was unpublished and I’d been an RNA NWS member for a couple of years. I had been writing (in my teeny Scottish garret!) for personal pleasure, not really sure why I was doing it except that I enjoyed it. After a few attempts I began to get good feedback from the RNA (one ms was sent direct to Mills and Boon). Via this I managed to get individual feedback from a senior editor. I think I was working on the book that was eventually published by now defunct Moonlit Romance, Taking The Leap.

2. Where did you get the idea from for this particular book?

Nanny Behaving Badly is set in Edinburgh - I love Edinburgh in wintertime! I love the frosty air, the window displays, the German market and the vista up to the Castle with the glittering Mound Christmas tree. I’ve loved its romance and escapism since childhood. So … I wrote about a fictional coffee bar in the heart of it all where a heroine was getting herself into lots of trouble … especially with her new boss.

3. Where do you hope to be in 5 years time?

Just writing and loving it. Obviously if what I’m writing is being published then that’s fabulous – BUT writing keeps me happy and healthy and that’s enough. Plus I know that with every book I grow so that’s pay-off enough.

4. Which was the last book you read that you wish you'd written?

Barbara Bretton – Casting Spells. Fantastic and couldn’t put it down. A paranormal romance set in a magic knitting shop – I had to buy it as soon as I saw it and it lived up to my hopes. Great stuff. I love a book that sweeps me off my feet.

5. Was there any particular author or book that made you want to be a writer?

I love Mills and Boon Presents author Anne McAllister. I love stepping into the worlds she creates, her heroines and her heroes. I have many of her books on my keeper shelf. In the early days of my RNA membership a NWS report suggested I try for Mills and Boon. I read across the lines and one Anne McAllister book in particular had me hooked. That’s when I knew I'd found the kind of romance I wanted to write. I felt the passion and something clicked – I still do get excited when I read her books. And the list of MnB authors I love has grown too. I also love Susan Wiggs – her writing is particularly appealing to me, hooks me right in. I know each world she creates will deliver and satisfy me.

6. Do you find writing love scenes giggle-worthy or cringe-worthy?

I’ve been told I’m fab at flirty chemistry and sexual tension but love scenes admittedly cause me harder work ... Probably the most amount of work goes on the love scenes in my books. I want them to deliver and I know they are a vital part of the whole. Let’s say I’m very pleased with Nanny Behaving Badly and I worked very hard on the love scenes. I think it’s okay to have weak spots as long as you toil away to improve.

7. What's the most romantic moment of your life so far?

Holding hands with my hubbie in the car while we sat watching our ‘to be adopted’ daughter coming to meet us for the first time. We’d had to jump through hoops she’ll never know about to get to that point and there she was … picking flowers, oblivious to all the ups and downs and we just smiled at each other. Different romantic – but a life affirming love moment we will never forget.

8. What do you wish you'd known about being an author before you were pubbed?

I suppose I thought releasing a book was the ‘be all and end all’. And at the time it was! It’s amazing and wonderful but I guess the years since then have taken me on twists and turns – some directions close, new doors open. Loving what you do is key. The only thing that matters is to keep writing and doing what fires you hoping that you keep getting better.

9. What's the best writing advice you've ever been given?

Write a lot. Regularly. Oh and I highly value the advice that ‘it’s okay to refill that well!’ Absolutely vital. For this purpose I break away from the writing from time to time and immerse myself in knitting!! Hence why the Barbara Bretton book appealed.

10. Tell us about your latest release.

Nanny Behaving Badly is set in a festive coffee bar in wintertime Edinburgh.
Rebel heroine Maddie Adams finds herself in hot water when she pushes her new cafe boss a bit too far. The last thing she expects is to find herself agreeing to a diverted position as Lyle Sutherland’s son’s SOS nanny.
Coffee chain owner Lyle finds that he’s added a firecracker to his home. Maddie can blow all his fuses at once; driving him to distraction in lots of confusing ways. And then he finds out that there’s more to his naughty nanny than sizzle and sparks. She hides a tender heart ... can Lyle treat her as well as she deserves?

11. What’s next for you?

I’m working on a novella and a new idea. Both quite different to what I’ve done before but great fun. I’ll keep those as a surprise!

Nanny Behaving Badly – out now! from here!

See more titles from EmbraceBooks – http://www.embracebooks.co.uk/

Flirting With The Fireman – out now with The Wild Rose Press

Read more about Judy at her website here 
Or visit her blog, Judy Jarvie's Jottings,  here

Thanks so much for joining us here on the Minxes today, Judy. And all the best with your releases!