- Chris Patchell
The 'Impressively Original' Jennifer Jaynes
"Jennifer Jaynes serves up pulse-pounding suspense with a large helping of heart. She's an author to be reckoned with..." - J. Carson Black, "New York Times" Bestselling Author
"Impressively original . . . Jennifer Jaynes has proven herself to be a consummate and consistently entertaining novelist..." - Midwest Book Review
When it comes to the wonderful world of writing suspense, Jennifer Jaynes is one of my favorite authors. Her writing is crisp and clean, her stories are compelling, and when it comes to twists and turns, Jennifer Jaynes has it going on! I recently had the opportunity to interview Jennifer about writing suspense and her life as a successful author.
What do you love most about writing suspense?
I love being able to surprise my readers and keep them turning the pages. I also love building solid, relatable characters that I hope stay with readers for a long time after finishing my books.
Do you think there are any special challenges for female authors writing in the genre?
I don’t think so. At least I haven’t encountered any. Also, I think we are especially skilled at writing domestic suspense … which, of course, is pretty in demand right now.
What’s your favorite part of the writing process?
My favorite part of the writing process is when everything finally comes together! I write several drafts and there’s always months where I feel a little concern about all the pieces coming together. Once they do, I can finally relax.
What part of the process do you enjoy the least and why?
The first draft. First drafts are extremely brain intensive for me and look nothing like the final book. I can sleep an entire week after completing one. 😊
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given about the writing craft?
That first drafts “should” suck. Actually, the first few. That most of the talent is in the rewriting. Also, the importance of “butt in chair.” You can’t wait to be inspired. You MUST treat writing like a job … if you want it to become one.
Given the tumultuous times we’re in and the news stories featured on the news every day, is it a challenge to stay edgy and find plot twists that truly shock readers?
It’s always a challenge to write good plot twists. But the payoff is more than worth it.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Aside from my twin sons, I’d say I’m most proud of the fact that I was able to write my six thrillers while my boys were young.
Making a living as a writer is tough. As a writer, have you ever endured a “dark night of the soul” where you thought you might not make it? What helped you through this period?
Absolutely! I experienced this for years prior to actually making it. Thankfully, I always ended up bouncing back. Being a full-time writer takes a lot of persistence, patience and a firm belief that you will make it one day. You have to really want it to stick with it. So if you really want it, stick with it! 😊
What piece of advice would you give to an author who is trying to grow his or her career?
Believe in yourself and constantly work on your craft. Also, patience and persistence are extremely important. You will also want to learn all you can about marketing.
If someone’s new to reading your work, which of your books would you recommend they start with?
Probably “Disturbed” or “Never Smile at Strangers.”
When’s your next book out and what are you working on now?
I don’t have a title or release date for my current work in progress. I’m really excited about it though, so hopefully I will soon. 😊
Here are some of the places where you can find out more about Jennifer and her work.
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Jennifer-Jaynes/
Website: www.JenniferJaynes.net
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JenniferJaynesAuthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JenniferJaynesAuthor/
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jennifer-jaynes