WHAT MOST DISTINGUISHES YOUR LINE FROM THE OTHER LINES (ESPECIALLY LINES THAT MAY BE SIMILAR TO YOURS)?
Harlequin American Romance publishes warmhearted romances mainly set in small-town America, especially in western settings. Publishing so many western stories certainly sets us apart. Of course, we love cowboys heroes and spunky heroines! And also stories about babies secret baby stories, pregnancies, twins, etc. We feature a lot of baby stories.
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SUBMISSION PET PEEVE?
When the writer hasnt researched the different series and doesnt know which lines she should be targeting.
For example, a lot of people have misconceptions of what American Romance means. I have been pitched many a sprawling literary epic, when what we are looking for is contemporary romances about blending or starting families. Its essential that writers read our books and get a sense of the themes we love to feature, including first love reunions, stories about returning to the place where you grew up, taking on the responsibilities of parenthood, etc. All while keeping a strong focus on an emotional and ultimately fulfilling romantic relationship!
IF YOUR LINE WAS A TV SERIES, WHICH ONE WOULD IT BE?
Longmire (but less gritty), Hart of Dixie (just add some babies :)), Heartland. For a movie Id say Sweet Home Alabama, but Josh Lucass character would be a cowboy / rancher and a sea glass artist! Reece Witherspoon would be exactly as she is.
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF BEING AN EDITOR?
I have a lot of favorite parts! Reading books (duh), helping an author develop her best work, working with art directors on covers, traveling to spend time with my authors at conferences. Theres more, too. I guess I love my job.
WHAT DOES YOUR TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE?
Frankly, chaos. I run two series, plus have a whole lot of other responsibilities. I develop these grand plans on the bus on the way to work: Im going to accomplish a big list of stuff before noon! And then the reality sets in. A full email in-box. Many pieces of back cover copy and covers to approve. Authors to catch up with. Schedules to check and rework. Strategy meetings. Reports to write. Contracts to write up. Brainstorming titles. Marketing meetings. When I finally get a day to read or edit a manuscript at home, its a joy!
Why did you become an editor?
The short answer is I love to read. One of my brothers taught me to read when I was very young reading is very big in my family. I also love to analyze. I was the queen of the essay in high school and university, and that skill led me to quickly be able to pick out strengths and weaknesses in stories.
DO YOU HAVE ANY HOBBIES?
I just took up spinning. This summer I did a lot more trail riding around Toronto and I think Im about to turn into one of those people who wear bike shorts everywhere. Not a great lookbut hopefully spinning will allow me to continue indulging in my other favorite pastime, eating. Every June I do a 50km (31 mile) ride for the Canadian Heart & Stroke Foundation in honor of my stepfather, who died young of heart disease. This year Im planning on stepping it up to 75km (46 miles) because I, apparently, am crazy.
What type of character/plot are you DYING to see?
I love to see characters and plots that surprise me! When I see an original twist on a traditional plot, I want that story for American Romance. When someone can write a tortured hero really well, thats always appealing. I love stories of redemption. Flawed characters who are still sympathetic are my weakness!
