How do you approach writing characters?

I try and figure out the key traits of my characters: loyal, determined, risk-taker, arrogant – and how they will need to grow and change by the end of the story arc.

How do you give individual characters their own “voice.”

By making sure I know who they are, and writing them from that core of individuality. I also have certain characters use slang or turns of phrase that others do not.

How do you decide on pacing?

I love a fast-paced story, so that’s what I write. Readers have accused me of making them stay up all night to finish a book, and I like to hear that. ?

How do you decide what to reveal to the audience, and when?

The key is to give the reader as much as they need in that moment, and peel back the layers of the story. Very occasionally I’ll use context so that the readers know a little bit more about what’s going on than the characters do, which adds an interesting tension – but you can’t let it go on too long and it’s a technique that must be used judiciously.

When it comes to description, do you think there’s such a thing as too much? Too little? How do you decide what’s your “right” amount.

I like to layer in specific setting details – enough to solidly ground the reader, but not so much that the story pace is bogged down. That amount varies by reader and author, though. It’s very much a personal choice, in both writing and reading. When worldbuilding in fantasy and SF, description becomes very important.

Do you have a specific place to write? A separate computer?

I prefer to write standing up, and have a corner of the kitchen I use. A separate computer would be great… but I’m not there yet.

Do you listen to music as you write? If so, what?

When I was powering out the end of my last “Feyland” book, I listened to the entire “Lord of the Rings” soundtrack a couple times through. Otherwise, no – I generally prefer quiet.

Do you finish, then edit, or do you edit as you go?

A little of both. I’m a layering writer, so I’ll cycle back and add things, and then once I have a complete draft, I’ll go back through a couple more times, making sure I have everything I need.

Do you wait until you have an idea, or do you sit down and write every day no matter what?

I have a daily word count I try to hit. And I have so many stories clamoring around in my head, I don’t think I’ll ever get to them all.

What’s your biggest hindrance to finishing a book?

Doing my other job as a musician, raising a kid, being a supportive family member and wife, taking care of multiple projects and chores... and then wedging in time to write.

How many people get to read your unfinished, or recently finished, work?

I have a fabulous critique partner, three very trusted beta readers, and a terrific editor who all see the book before publication.

What do you feel are your strengths as a writer? What advice would you give for someone who wants to improve that aspect of their writing?

I think my descriptions are pretty vivid, and my pacing is strong. Basically, really sink yourself into the setting you’re trying to describe, and make sure you pull in ALL the senses. As for pacing, leave out the boring parts!

What would you like to improve with your writing, and how would you go about doing it?

I’m working on deepening my characters and getting down into the depths of their emotions, pushing myself to go farther in my exploration of what makes them tick.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out, trying to finish (or start!) their first novel.

Write every day, don’t go back and revise until you have a complete draft.

Who are your favorite authors?

Robin McKinley, Charles de Lint, Mary Balogh, Patricia McKillip, Juliet Marillier

If you could ask your favorite author one question, what would it be? What would you like to learn from them?

What their easiest book was to write. I’d like to just sit and have a cup of tea and talk about writing, nothing specific.

What’s your favorite book of all time?

The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley. Right book, right time.

Have you read any useful books that helped you with story, characters, or writing in general?

Self Editing for Fiction Writers, revised edition, by Browne and King. Stephen King’s On Writing.

How did you approach your cover artist, and what was that experience like?

I use two different artists, one for my fantasy books, the other for my romances. Both are great to work with, and I love their work. E-mail and make sure that the lines of communication are clear about what your thoughts are on the cover. But be open to their artistic vision, too! That’s why you’re hiring them, after all.

What software do you use, if other than MS Word?

I compile my books into the various digital formats using Jutoh, and really like that program a lot.

Are there any websites you found helpful in regards to eBook formatting?

The Smashwords Style Guide has some good, clear advice.

Any tricks you’ve learned in eBook formatting?

I create a faux drop-cap look by bolding the first letter of the text in each chapter and bumping up the font one point.

Do you sell across all eBook platforms? Has one done better for you than others?

I do, and Amazon is the bulk of my sales, though I see little spikes here and there.

How do you feel about KDP Select (i.e. Kindle Owners' Lending Library)?

I don’t believe in exclusivity, but used as a tool I know that some authors have done well with Select.

Do you sell print versions of your books? If so, what company do you use, and why?

Absolutely – I think taking the extra step to make print copies is essential. I use CreateSpace and have been very happy with the whole POD process and overall quality of the books.

Do you do any marketing? If so, what works for you, what hasn’t?

Bookbub ads are great, if you can get them. I’ve also cultivated a large following on Wattpad, and am building my mailing list.

Did you enjoy being a part of your StoryBundle? Have you seen an increase in sales separate from the Bundle?

I loved being a part of the YA StoryBundle! Great fun. I’ve seen a bump in the 3rd book in my series, and hopefully will get some new fans for my next book, releasing in November 2013.

Anthea Sharp is also traditionally published in historical romance, as Anthea Lawson. Her award-winning urban fantasy trilogy, “Feyland” – a mix of high-tech gaming and the treacherous Realm of Faerie – is available in both print and digital from all online retailers. She is hard at work on a sequel and spinoff stories. Anthea lives in the Pacific NW of the US, where the rain and dim winters are conducive to creative indoor pursuits. In addition to writing, she plays and teaches the Irish fiddle, hangs out in virtual worlds, drinks strong black tea, and spends time with her small-but-good family. She loves hearing from readers – drop her a line at antheasharp at Hotmail dot com, and join her newsletter to find out about upcoming releases and reader perks (no spam!). You can also friend her on Facebook.