Wendy Delsol Interview and Giveaway!

What makes you feel like you’re reading or have read a truly amazing book?

Great question. There are intangible qualities to great books. My first litmus test is pretty simple: can I set it down? Or am I reshuffling my schedule to build in more reading time? While an urgency to know what happens next is a part of my definition of an amazing read, there’s more to the package.

I love it when a book creeps into my conscious thoughts. I’ll find myself thinking about the situations and characters while—and even long after—the book is out of my hands.

While reading, there are times I will stop to reread a passage or section that is emotionally charged or highly insightful. I’ve even gasped at such moments. Kudos to the writer who can knock the wind out of me.
And, finally, a great book will equal parts motivate me and humble me.

How did you find your covers and if you didn't take part in the search what is your opinion of them?

Covers contractually belong to the publisher. While authors are sometimes consulted as to ideas, style, etc., they are not directly involved in the production of the cover art. And thank goodness, in my opinion. There are many more talented visual artists than me. Moreover, there is a science behind covers. Everything from background color, font, image (a photo, drawing, inanimate object, symbol, etc.), type size, and more are considered for genre, target audience, and current trends.
I will say that I’ve been very lucky so far. One does hear stories of authors who are unhappy with their cover. And it’s always one of my very favorite days in this crazy business when that first glimpse of art is sent over the wires.

When you are reading which do you prefer: paperback, hardcover or e-book?

I’ve yet to read a book on any kind of e-reader. I’m not against the format; it’s just after a full day on the computer, my eyes need a rest from the screen. My preference for paperbacks has more to do with cost than what I like to hold while reading. I do buy most of the books that I read. My husband is also an avid reader. That’s not to say if something compelling is out in hardback that I won’t buy it. I most certainly do.

Current favorite band?

I’m going to be such a disappointment to you here. I don’t follow music trends very much. My sons will be ashamed of me for this admission, I fear, but it’s true. I don’t listen to music while writing. And in my car, I opt for talk formats such as NPR (National Public Radio) over music. My all-time favorite song is Moondance by Van Morrison. How’s that for dating myself!

Best movie you have ever seen?

Now, movies I like. So another good question. Shakespeare in Love was superb and so well written. The English Patient is also a wonderful film. Though it’s more of a mini-series than a movie, the Pride and Prejudice adaptation with Colin Firth is my all-time favorite. And it is probably no coincidence that Colin is in all three of the movies I mentioned. Sigh. My favorite movie this year is The Help; it’s a great novel as well.

In the world currently so many people have self esteem issues. Name one thing you like about yourself.
My sense of humor. I try not to take myself, and life in general, too seriously.
If we’re talking about a physical trait, something I had no influence over, I guess I’d have to say my smile. I enjoy when life gives me an occasion to, anyway

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