J.L. Langley is the author of gay romance-novels that are being published in Germany by Cursed. For Lazy Literature she found the time to answer some questions. (Foto: Copyright J.L. Langley)
Thank you for taking the time for this interview.
How did you start with the writing?
I started writing when I read a book and I was so disappointed with the writing. I simply couldn’t believe that the book had been published or that the author was considered a NY Times best seller. I told my husband I can write better than this! He said, „Oh yeah? Then do it.“ I said, „Okay,“ and the rest is history so to speak.
When did you decide on gay romance and was it planned from the start?
I didn’t plan on gay romance from the start. I actually started writing Male/Female paranormal romance. But the publisher I write for had asked me to give a quote for an upcoming book, and I said sure. It just so happened to be an Ally Blue book. Her first one. „Forgotten Song“. And I fell in love. Not just with her writing, which is wonderful, but with the genre. I love the more equal footing in the relationship. I love the dynamic between two men. Just the everyday interactions fascinate me. It’s so different than it is between a woman and a man or even two women.
What was your first reaction after you heard that your novels would be translated into German?
I was absolutely ecstatic. Every time I have a book published in another language it’s such a thrill. I still can’t believe my words have been published in other languages and are reaching so many people.
You were in Berlin for the LoveLetter Convention 2014. What was your impression with Germany and the Germans?
I want to come back! I loved Germany. The people, the weather, everything about it. I’m going to come back one day and I’m going to bring my family. I know they would love it too. I love history and Germany is so much older than the US, the history and culture is so rich. I was an art history major in college so it was fascinating and awe inspiring to see. My only regret is that I couldn’t stay longer and explore more of Germany than just Berlin. I loved Berlin, but I would love to explore the countryside too. I hear it’s so beautiful. And more cities! And more museums!
Do you do a lot of research for your novels and how do you keep track in the course of a series of the many things that come up in every novel?
I do do research. If I don’t know it I always look it up or if there is any doubt I look it up. The only real problem I have with research is that I’m curious by nature and sometimes researching can take over. LOL I will start by looking up one little thing and then that leads to some other curiosity and so on and so forth. As for the series, I do keep a series bible. I have a whole lot of info for the Sci-Regency series. Everything from the character’s stats, to the planets to the countries on the planets to the cities. My file is huge. There are even tons of pictures as well. I even have my own glossary. It’s actually a lot of fun, and it’s great to have it on hand and easy to access. Because even I forget things like a characters eye color or how tall they are.
You have a very full life with your family. How do you plan your days to be able to get your writing done?
I am a full time writer so it’s not too difficult. After my kids are gone to school it’s pretty quiet around my house. so lots of time to write. My only issue is that for some reason some of my extended family members think, that me being a writer means, I don’t work, so I would love to run their errands for them. That is pretty annoying, but I’ve gotten really good at telling them no. LOL
What are some of the topics you are most interested in and that have an impact on your writing?
Oh wow, that is a tough one. It changes. And inevitable whatever is interesting me at the time does end up in my books. Like right now. I’ve started taking kung fu, and so far it’s in two of my works in progress. I love animals so I usually include them in my books as well. Several of my characters have pets that sort of steal the show, or the scene I should say.
What can your fans look forward to in your next project?
Well I’m hoping to get a book done within the next year. It’s been slow going as far as the writing. Lots of personal issues, but I think they are finally getting better. I’m really hoping to have the next wolf book and a M/F book out next year.
What do you want to tell your fans that hasn’t been addressed, yet?
Thanks so much for your support and your patience. I know it’s frustrating that I haven’t gotten the next in the series out and that it’s been so long, but my readers are really supportive. And I want to thank them from the bottom of my heart and assure them, I’ve not forgotten about them. I’m working to get those books out.
Thank you!
