Q&A With Sylvia McDaniel 

This evening I have the pleasure of doing a Q&A with Sylvia McDaniel. Sylvia is a bestselling author of historical romance and contemporary romance novels. The historical romance novels take place in the Wild West. 

Q:  At what point in your life did you realize you wanted to become a writer?

I was well into my 30’s when I decided to try writing a book. I had read a romance that I threw against the wall, because it was so stupid. 

A: I was well into my 30’s when I decided to try writing a book. I had read a romance that I threw against the wall, because it was so stupid. So I decided to write a book and I quickly realized that it was crap. I rewrote that book 3 times before I gave up on it. I wrote two more books before I sold my third romance to Kensington. 

Q: Do you prefer writing historical romance novels or contemporary romance novels more?

A: I love writing both. Historical romances are always fun, but I can do so much more with contemporary ones. I’ve even written some sci-fi romance. 

Q: What advice do you give anyone who wants to be a writer, especially someone who wants to write historical romance and contemporary romance? 

A: Just do it. Don’t let anyone’s critiques or someone telling you, you can’t do it get into your head. Sit down and write the book. Sit down and rewrite the book. Sit down and write another book. Just keep going. With each book you’ll get better. Also take some classes on writing. Connect with other writers and you’ll learn that everyone struggles at first. 

Q: Does Hollywood have the rights to all your novels? 

A: I wish. No, but I hope someday they read Secrets of A Summer Place and call me. 

Q: What were your favorite novels you read so far this year? 

A: I recently read a Janice Whiteaker book  Cowboy Seeking Nanny. I also enjoyed Two Marks Tempted by Renee Rose and Vanessa Vale. Any book by Rachel Gibson. Stephanie Bond’s Elevator Girl. The Secret Cowboy Billionaire by Cynthia Woolf. 

Plus, I read a lot of craft/marketing books. 

Q: Are you writing a new book now? If so can you spoil a little bit about it?

A:  Right now I’m working on Tucker. He is the third brother in the Burnett Brides contemporary series. He runs a security company and the heroine is an actress/singer who someone is trying to kill.