Interview with Cindy Huefner Cromer - Part One

I'd like to present to you Cindy Huefner Cromer, one of eTreasures Publishing’s newest authors. Basking in her excitement of her first published novel, she’s taken a moment from the celebration to share time with us.

Bio: Cindy Huefner Cromer, formally a New Jersey resident, now resides in Stuart, Florida, with her husband, son, and daughter. Cindy works as a laboratory scientist and executive, authoring numerous laboratory procedures and research documents. Driven by a passion for suspense and mystery novels, she dreamed of becoming a writer. Her dream turns into reality with the release of her debut suspense novel, Desperate Measures, in May 2011.

When did you start writing?
I’m sure this isn’t the answer you’re looking for, but my first publication was as co-author of a Bitter Intensity Study when I worked as a research chemist in the citrus industry.

Pertaining to creative writing, I’ll have to take you back to my teenage years. When I was in eighth grade, I wrote a descriptive essay. On my way to basketball practice one day, I saw my father come out of the Principal’s office. I immediately became nervous and thought I had gotten into trouble, for what I had no idea. My father informed me that my essay was written so well, that I’d been placed in the honors English and Literature classes. You may ask if this bit of my history has anything to do with where I am today. The answer is yes and no. At the time, I had plans of grandeur and envisioned myself as a bestselling author, but also wanted to be a professional woman’s basketball player. Hey, I was a teenager and had big dreams. Back to the point, I focused on my favorite subject in school, science, and earned my degree in chemistry in college. Through the many technical papers, contracts, and invaluable experience in my career, I’ve come full circle, realized my dream, and have begun my writing career.

Could you share with us a little about your first attempts at writing?
Ever since I was little, I’ve been an avid reader. I always said one day I’d write a book, if I ever had the time. My family teased me mercilessly about reading and encouraged me to write a book, since I had read so many. While reading a book, I won’t mention the author or title, I counted four characters with the same name. I slammed the book down and decided to do what I’d claimed. I gave it a shot, started typing away, and created Caitlin, the protagonist. I gave her a career utilizing my scientific and executive background. Since my favorite genre is mystery and suspense, I thought about a story I’d like to read. It didn’t take long for a plot and ending to formulate. I chose the main location as St. Kitts because my family and I do travel there frequently and the island is beautiful. It was really fun creating the characters. Once I got going, the second book started to form. When I finished DESPERATE MEASURES, I hoped for publication, but wasn’t sure. But, by writing the first book I’d achieved my dream. I continued on with the second book.

Have you ever experience the dreaded Writer’s Block? If so, what are your processes of overcoming it?
Great question! Yes, writer’s block does exist. I found a few tricks to get past the frustrating points when words and creativity just won’t come. First, I re-read the last three scenes I’ve written to build my confidence and boost my self-esteem, convince myself I can do it. When that doesn’t work, I read. At this juncture, I deliberately choose books I wouldn’t typically or a book that I’ve read before but didn’t enjoy. Sounds a little strange, but this method works well for me. For one thing, at this point, I’m not enjoying the material, and it motivates me to get going, knowing that I can create a much better book. Also, I can never predict when inspiration will hit. Writing is 24/7, I can’t just say, “oops quitting time”, there’s no such thing for a writer.

What one piece of advice would you give to a new writer?
Be prepared for rejection, sometimes it’s brutal. If you believe in your work, don’t give up. Be persistent, if you were rejected by an agent or publisher before, don’t be shy and try again. Grow thick skin and don’t be offended, embrace each criticism and rejection as an opportunity to edit and polish your work.

Most importantly, ALWAYS carry a notepad when a computer is not readily available. As I said above, you never know when inspiration will hit.

One time, my family and I were on a cruise, and the perfect scene came to me. I had nothing to write on except a bunch of receipts. So, there I was, jotting down note after note on these little pieces of paper, and the sea winds whipping all around. I wished I’d had a notepad that day.
It’s taken some time, but my family has gotten used to me going into writer mode. I drop everything to get the words written down, before the thoughts get lost.

Cindy, thank you so much for sharing with us.

To shorten this lengthy interview, it has been divided into two sections.

Continue reading interview.