Q: When did you first get serious about writing?
I think I’ve always loved to write, Samantha. I was churning out substandard little stories from a young age. In terms of seriousness, it took until my late twenties to realize I had to commit real time and effort to the process of writing, then a few years more to actually achieve the end product. Hence I call myself the Queen of Procrastination!
Q: What do you find to be the most difficult part of the writing process?
About half way through the final edit of a book – when I just want it to be over, so that I can start the next one. Intriguingly this part of the writing process coincides with a sudden and unexpected increase in weight as well! It’s filling in the small details: all the little bits and pieces that you want to get right for the reader, but take hours of research/checking.
Q: Who are some authors that you look up to?
Too many to name, but if pushed, I worship at the altar of Jodi Picoult, who manages to make producing compelling, timely works look so effortless. I try to read a lot of comedy TV scripts too.
Q: What are you currently reading?
John Berendt’s City of Falling Angels, after noticing someone who reviewed my book on Amazon was reading it.
Q: Your second novel, Marrying Out of Money, will in bookstores in April. Can you tell us about the story in twenty words or less?
Sure – a coffee heiress’s social-climbing mother tries to marry her off to a womanizing aristocrat, with disastrous results.
Q: Are you working on a third novel?
Yes! It’s called Anti-model Agency, and the teaser is: revenge comes in all shapes and sizes!
Q: Where do you find the ideas for your books?
The media and the social climate. I try to find something ubiquitous in our world and turn it on its head.
Q: How did you celebrate your first novel, Naked in Knightsbridge, after it was published?
In true Jools’ style: a couple of dozen boxes of Krispy Kremes and some cheap red wine!
Q: Where would be your dream vacation?
At the moment, somewhere warm with a 24-hour buffet. I’m discerning, aren’t I?
Q: What is your advice for aspiring writers?
The only way to achieve your dreams is to write everyday, then rewrite until you have a brilliant book. No shortcuts, I’m afraid.
