Author H. Schussman: H. Schussman Interviews Susan Lantz Simpson

Susan Lantz Simpson Interview

Heidi~

First, Susan, tell us a little about yourself.

Susan~

I live in Southern Maryland. I have degrees in English/Education and Nursing. I have taught students from pre-k through high school. I currently work as a community health nurse and write every chance I get. I have two wonderful daughters and three cats.

Heidi~

What genre do you write?

Susan~

I write inspirational fiction. Plainly Maryland is an Amish romance series.

Heidi~

When did you start writing?

Susan~

I wrote my first poem at age six. I have been writing poems and stories ever since.

Heidi~

What are you working on now?

Susan~

I am currently working on two 3-book series for two different publishers.

Heidi~

Where do you write? Describe your workspace?

Susan~

I'm one of those strange writers who writes in long hand, so I write everywhere--at home, in office waiting rooms, wherever I find a few minutes to work. Then I have to find time to type everything later!

Heidi~

Who are your all-time favorite authors?

Susan~

There are so many authors whose books I always read that I can't pick a favorite. I always read novels by Kelly Irvin, Mary Ellis, Dana Mentick, Shirlee McCoy, Vanetta Chapman, Amy Lillard, Ruth Reid....

Heidi~

Did you find writing a query letter a challenge? If so, how did you overcome it? Do you think there was a key phrase or idea in your query letter?

Susan~

The query letter is a bit intimidating because that letter is usually the first contact with an agent or editor. It is the agent's or editor's first glimpse at your writing, and you want them to be impressed enough to ask for more. I communicated with several authors who I trust and respect and got lots of support and guidance from them. I'm thankful my agent, Julie Gwinn at the Seymour Agency, liked my letter, proposal, and book. She took me on as a client right away.

Heidi~

What advice do you have for a writer aspiring to be published?

Susan~

Keep writing! Write every day even if it's just a few paragraphs. Keep reading, especially read the genre you want to write. You can learn so much from published authors.

Heidi~

Would you like to acknowledge someone for their help/assistance/faith in you/etc?

Susan~

My mother always believed in me and encouraged me from my school days on. She always enjoyed reading my stories. Many authors offered me a lot of encouragement, support, and advice. I'm especially grateful that Vanetta Chapman, Kelly Irvin, Mary Ellis, Amy Lillard, Shirlee McCoy, and Dana Mentink took time from their busy schedules to answer my endless questions.