A continuing interview with Deeanne Gist, author of A Bride Most Begrudging. Yesterday, we talked a bit about how the book got published; today, we'll concentrate more on the book itself. Tomorrow, we'll finish with a few words about marketing, advice for writers, and Dee's upcoming works.
TL Hines: Let's talk about the book now. What especially struck me--more than anything else--was your ear for dialogue. It had the right balance of historic authenticity (the novel takes place in Colonial America), yet still sounded natural and contemporary. Did you do a lot of research on the colloquialisms and speech patterns of Colonial America? How did you strike that balance of formal-yet-conversational?
Deeanne Gist: I did a TON of research on 17th century slang and tried very hard to sprinkle the dialog with a 17th century feel without slowing down the story. It's kind of like salt. Use a little and it enhances the flavor, use too much and it ruins the flavor. Definitely a fine line, eh?
TL Hines: While it's not a bawdy romance, there are certainly some very sensual scenes with a lot of sexual tension and energy in them. I can see how it maybe fell in between the cracks--not explicit enough for ABA audiences, but perhaps a big more sensual than the typical prairie romance. What's been the reaction in the marketplace?
Deeanne Gist: Depends on what you mean by "marketplace." As far as reviewers go, they, for the most part, haven't batted an eye--with the exception of two. One raised an eyebrow, the other pitched a fit. As far as the readers go, I have only heard from readers who have enjoyed Bride and to date, haven't heard from any nay-sayers. Sales are going extremely well, so if that is any indication, then the "marketplace" seems to be enjoying the content of Bride.
TL Hines: There's also a real comic, witty energy throughout the whole novel. I have to say, the opening scene had me a bit predisposed against Constance for the first 30 pages or so, mainly because of her mistake in the first chapter that sets the whole story in motion. But as you developed her character, I grew to really enjoy her energy and wit--and you painted a picture that put her actions of the first chapter in perspective. Were you concerned about starting where you did, or was that just my individual reaction?
Deeanne Gist: That's another one of those fine lines. You need to have your character flawed and real, but not so unheroic that they are unredeemable. Constance definitely had room for growth, though. No arguments there. Was I concerned? That's what's so nice about having an editor. If something doesn't work, they are quick to tell you about it. :)
TL Hines: I'm also a big believer in appropriate names. "Constance" is a perfect name for your leading lady, simply because it suggests much about her character: she's constant, unrelenting, single-minded. What's your approach to naming characters, and are there any fun stories about who--or what--inspired the names of characters in the book?
Deeanne Gist: I wish I could say I go through some intense, scientific process, but you know what's embarrassing? I choose names that I like and that my husband wouldn't let me use when naming our kids. Ha!
Tomorrow: the final installment of our interview, in which Dee offers advice to aspiring writers.
