Talkshow Thursday: Welcome back, Donna Schlacter
Linda: Thanks for joining me today. Congratulations
on your upcoming release, Double
Jeopardy. It sounds intriguing. Where did you find your inspiration for
this story?
Donna: It’s
amazing how inspiring this simple question from an editor can be: why aren’t
you publishing with me?
Seriously, that’s what happened. Said publisher wanted a
story with a cowboy on the cover. Or at least the potential for a cowboy on the
cover.
LM: Research is
important for any book, but especially so with regard to historic novels.
Mining and ranching are part of Double
Jeopardy. How did you go about researching these two topics, and was there
an especially interesting fact you wanted to include in the story?
Donna: I visited
the area, went to a mining museum, read some articles and books, watched a
documentary or two, and did some online research. While Colorado is well-known
for its gold rush, the silver rush came earlier but didn’t last long. I love to
write about lesser-known facts, so settled on silver mining. One thing I
learned was they used mules in silver mines, too, so I included a pair in the
story.
LM: Your
historical novels don’t center around one particular era. When you write, how
do you go about choosing which time period to use, and do you have a favorite?
Donna: I usually
look for that little nugget (no pun intended) of history or unsolved mystery,
and set the story there.
LM: In addition
to writing, you also have a speaking ministry, and offer critiquing, editing,
and proofreading services. How do you juggle these activities with your
personal time?
Donna: Personal
time? LOL. Seriously, I’m a To-Do List fiend, so everything gets scheduled on
my calendar. When I’m writing, I put an appointment for my butt in my chair and
my fingers on the keys to write however many chapters I need to stay on goal.
Same with other projects. Speaking in February? Outline in December. Write it
in January. Practice it in February. Outline and PowerPoint to organizers
whenever they want them. Just so.
LM: You’ve
published numerous books. What advice do you have for fledgling writers?
Donna: Never be
afraid to tell your story. It’s important because it is your story, and you’re
the only one who can tell it.
LM: What is your
next project?
Donna: A covered
wagons collection. And then coming up with a new cozy mystery series for my
alter ego.
LM: Where can
folks find you on the web?
Donna: I’d love
if you’d join me at my Double Jeopardy
Facebook event on January 7th: https://www.facebook.com/events/2220456174726867/
And, if you’re in the Denver, Colorado area, join me at the
Launch Party on January 7th at Bear Valley Church, 10001 W Jewell Ave,
Lakewood, CO, 7-9 pm. There will be fun, light refreshments, games, prizes, and
books to buy. I’ll be the one dressed up as Zeke Graumann’s mother.
Website: www.HiStoryThruTheAges.wordpress.com
www.HiStoryThruTheAges.com: Receive a free ebook simply for signing up for our free newsletter!
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/DonnaschlachterAuthor
Twitter: www.Twitter.com/DonnaSchlachter
What Can Be Online University: online courses on the craft of writing
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Thank you, Linda, for having me on your blog!
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