Author, Linda Dominique Grosvenor share some information about life as a writer...

-The SCBC, Inc.

Tell us your latest news.

I am currently awaiting the release of my fourth novel Spanish Lullaby. The writing is more intense than I've written in my other novels. I anticipate that readers will be able to relate with the main characters. Hopefully soon I'll have an excerpt up on my website.

Where are you from?

I'm a New York native. Love it. It's in my blood. I now claim North Carolina as home. The area is more conducive for writing. I love it.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I wrote tons of poems as a youngster. Whenever I put my pen to paper and write from the heart I consider it writing. A published author is a different story of course. Even after a book contract it wasn't official until I could walk into the bookstore and find my book on the new release table. A moving experience.

If you had to choose which writer would you consider a mentor?

I would consider Sonia Sanchez a mentor. The woman oozes words that move people. I'd also consider Sandra Cisneros a mentor as well. I know it's the poet in me that's drawn to writing styles like those.

What do you do to set the mood for writing?

Quiet is all I need to write, unless I'm writing a love scene or romantic moment, then and only then do I use music.

What are you reading now?

I just finished reading Resurrecting Mingus. Loved it! Highly recommend it. Selah's Bed is next on my list.

Do you feel that more African Americans are reading?

Yes and I feel that African Americans are becoming more discriminating in their reading as well. They want substance, something that stays with them long after the last page is turned.

Do you see writing as a long or short term career?

Once you start writing there's no looking back. At least not for me. I have several novels completed that are just waiting for their turn to see the light of day. I think once you tap into your calling, the rest of you follows suit.

Would you encourage or mentor someone to become self-published?

I am and have mentored several authors. A few started out self-published and have gone on to acquire deals with major publishers. As a writer who has made a name for herself, I feel it's only right that I help other achieve what I have.

How did you come up with the title for your book(s)?

My titles all come to me beforehand. I have a list of 40 titles and just check them off as I write and complete the stories.

What are your current projects?

I am still promoting FEVER and waiting for the release of Spanish Lullaby. I'm working on a story for The Cradle Robbers series titled "Bloom." That should be very interesting. I have a non-fiction book called The Plural Thing available in PDF and am working on a How To promotion book as well. As you can see, I stay busy.

Is there anything additional that you want to share with your readers?

Yes. Reviews. Authors cherish them. They love to get feedback on their work. Whenever I read a book I write a review, I encourage everyone to do the same thing. You can stop by my website and see what I've been reading to relax and unwind.

Visit: www.lindadominiquegrosvenor.com