Author Interview: Natacha Guyot

NOTE: THIS AUTHOR IS NOT AN LV BOOK DESIGN CLIENT AND ALL IMAGES WERE PROVIDED BY THE AUTHOR.

• First, can you give us some background about yourself?

• I have loved telling stories and creating imaginary worlds since I was a child, whether when I played with my toys or when I was old enough to write and put words on paper.
  I took a literary path even in high school, with a love of literature and foreign languages (French is my native one, and I learned English, Latin, German and Italian between middle and high school). 
  I wrote my first original fiction in my teen years, but took a break from it for about ten years, focusing on academic work (in Film, Media Studies and Humanities). 
  While struggling to find a paid job for several years, I focused on my writing, both fiction and nonfiction, and realized that it was my calling. Returning to it has been a worthy experience and I can't imagine myself not writing!

• What have you written?

• I have published articles, essays, short stories and novellas in the past years. Besides academic publishing, whether as author or editor, I have taken the self-publishing road for about four years now. My nonfiction focuses on Media Studies, Gender Studies, Fan Communities and Science Fiction. As for my original fiction, I always write Fantasy or Science Fiction. Last year I published the first volume in an ongoing series 'Clairvoyance Chronicles', made of a series of connected short stories with human, Fae, Were characters (but no vampire!)

• Are you currently working on anything?

• I always am. Keeping the muses in line and juggle between different projects can be challenging, but I prefer having too many ideas than none at all.
  I have several upcoming titles at different stages of revision and formatting, but the main project I am working on right now is the translation (from French to English) of the first novel I wrote when I was a teenager. It requires a lot of rewriting, but makes for an interesting experience. I have only written in English in the past years. It is more comfortable to me and makes it easier when it comes to reaching audiences.

• How much research do you do for your writing?

• When it comes to academic/nonfiction writing, I have an extended collection of books on the various topics I commonly work on. With my love to dissect movies and TV shows, I own several versions of some titles for better research too, and can play a video game multiple times to explore choices and storylines, if I write a paper about it.
  For fiction work, I love world building, but research mostly focuses on writing craft, whether genre oriented or not. I do specific research when I need to set a scene in a given city or country if I write in a "real world" setting, and not a completely created one.

• What is your process like in the midst of writing a book?

• I can't write more than one book at the same time. I am comfortable doing revision/formatting/marketing on other titles at the same time, but I can't do more than one book when I am doing the main "chunk" of writing.
  I normally type my stories or essays right away and like having a large monitor to have a better view (I use Word over software such as Scrivener, only using the latter for formatting). I am a rather slow writer. Doing 1,000 or 2,000 word a day is how I usually do things. 
  I have notes stored both on the computer and on notebooks, because I always get ideas when I'm not at the computer. 
  If my inspiration runs off after some writing, I commonly go write some roleplaying posts on a Star Wars forum where I have multiple characters. The shorter length of writing and not having to think about world building helps a lot to restart my original muse, whether fiction or nonfiction. 

• What does your routine look like when you get to the editing process?

• Besides cringing at the stupid mistakes and bad wording, I always feel grateful to my editor to help point out things I can improve. 
  I am a slow writer and have a hard time doing my own editing, so I prefer taking my time and fidgeting with writing rather than revisit multiple times on my own.
  It took me a while to find the right editor, but she has been of tremendous help. Since she uses a lot of color codes, I normally do an overview of what she did, to have an idea of which parts will need the most work. Then, I tackle things in order, and take care of the easier items to fix, leaving the heavy rewriting/rewording for last.

• Do you have any quirks or rituals that help you achieve your writing goals?

• I need a lot of Earl Grey tea. That's my fuel! 
  While I have no problem taking notes regardless of where I am or what time of the day it is, I prefer writing quietly at my desk, with or without music. 
  Some projects work much better when I listen to music (mostly instrumental, whether classical, soundtracks or celtic, and symphonic metal music); and some I prefer writing in silence.

• Tell us about your work space.

• I love my desk to pieces. I have had this old and massive Swedish desk since I was nine years old. I am now in my thirties and still work on it. There is a lot of room for computer, monitor, notebooks, pile of research books, teapot and mug, and also cats.
  My beloved desk and a good monitor are really the core of my workspace. During summer 2016, I am moving overseas (from France to Texas), and my desk is definitely part of the few pieces of furniture I'm taking with me.



• Are there any software or apps that help you in your writing process?

• Give me Microsoft Word and Firefox and I am happy. Even when it comes to listening to music while writing, I'm often lazy and just search a good playlist on Youtube. 



• What do you do when you lose focus? Any tips for getting it back?

• Most of the time, just writing a few Star Wars roleplaying posts will be enough to get my focus back, but if I really feel too frustrated with my writing, I will either work out a bit (pilates and some yoga can do wonders) or go kill things in a video games (I like Fantasy and Science Fiction RPG games such as Mass Effect, Star Wars: The Old Republic, Diablo III).
  Every once in a while, I'll hit a mean writer's block time or earn myself a burn out. It took me several years to realize it was okay and could happen to me. In that case, I'll allow myself to walk away from the project I'm writing and focus on what I can revise, what I can take notes for, what I can market better, but take distance from the "writing" of writing. One week often fixes it.



• Tell us about your publishing process.

• I have published in some academic volumes, but have chosen the self-publishing road for my other work. I have never regretted it. I am far from being able to live thanks to my writing, but I love the creative control over what I do.
  I publish on Kindle through Amazon and print (if the volume is long enough) via Createspace/Amazon. The few free eBooks I have available are available on any e-formats on Smashwords.
  It is a lot of work to take care of everything on my own, or build the network that helps (I am very grateful to the amazing and talented people who help me whether for editing, cover design or marketing) but it is extremely rewarding. 
  I normally publish three titles a year, and since 2016, I start on International Women's Day with a free eBook collecting all interviews from the previous year of my monthly blog feature "Sci-Fi Women Interviews" and follow with a summer and a winter release.
  I offer pre-order on Amazon, start looking for marketing/advertising opportunities a few months prior to the release, and if I can organize a book blog tour. While I do 3 releases per year, I try to have a "main one" that benefits from more advertising.
  After I've released a title, I try to go back to it via blogging, tie it to a guest post elsewhere, do free or discount days on Amazon to keep spreading the word.



• Where can people find you and your work?

• Website: http://natachaguyot.org
  Twitter: http://twitter.com/natachaguyot
  Linkedin: http://fr.linkedin.com/in/natachaguyot/
  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natachaguyot
  Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7944812.Natacha_Guyot
  Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/guyotnatacha/
  Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/+NatachaGuyot/
  Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Natacha-Guyot/e/B00JAZS2CY/
  Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Natacha-Guyot/e/B00JAZS2CY/
  Amazon France: http://www.amazon.fr/Natacha-Guyot/e/B00JAZS2CY/
  Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/aruna7

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Writing Prompt /// Coffee Break /// August 2016

Each month, I post a writing prompt that you take 10 minutes to write. Just 10 minutes to give yourself a break from what you are working on now but keep you in the flow of working. It may be a topic to write about, or it may be a way of writing that you don't normally use. I am going to try to mix things up so your brain doesn't get bored.

For August, the writing prompt is:

Headline News.

This writing prompt has two directions you could take it. The first option is to look at today's paper (or whatever you get your news from) and read just the headline; then, write a story, not an editorial piece, about what you that is related to that headline. The other option is to write a short piece about what type of headline you'd like to read instead of what the paper actually has printed.

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If you post your "Coffee Break" responses anywhere online, I'd love to read them! Share your link in the comments!

Want to be interviewed? Open call to authors!

I'm starting a new series on the LV Book Design blog, author interviews. If you are interested in getting more information about you and work out there, then please fill out the questionnaire! You can be traditionally, indie or self-published to participate. Right now, they will be scheduled for one interview a month, but if there is a lot of response, I may do them more frequently.

UPDATE!

Due to an overwhelming response, I'll be scheduling TWO interviews a month and currently have enough interviews to last me through all of 2017. Thank you, all for your support and participation! 

Click the button below to start your interview! And THANKS!

Writing Prompt /// Coffee Break /// July 2016

Each month, I post a writing prompt that you take 10 minutes to write. Just 10 minutes to give yourself a break from what you are working on now but keep you in the flow of working. It may be a topic to write about, or it may be a way of writing that you don't normally use. I am going to try to mix things up so your brain doesn't get bored.

For July, the writing prompt is:

Your Muse.

What inspires you? Take that inspiration to the meta-level and write directly about your muse!

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If you post your "Coffee Break" responses anywhere online, I'd love to read them! Share your link in the comments!

LV Book Design is on Instagram

Did you know that LV Book Design is on Instagram? If you are on Instagram, too, you should follow me! I post inspiration, behind the scenes and other goodies on my stream. Leave me a comment if your on!

FREE Editing Checklist

So, you've made it through your first draft! Congratulations! Take a break and come back to your manuscript in at least two weeks with fresh eyes and this FREE EDITING CHECKLIST. There are actually two lists in this PDF; one for copyediting and another for story editing. You could even enlist the help of a friend or fellow author and give them a copy to help them as they proof your manuscript.

Writing Prompt /// Coffee Break /// June 2016

Each month, I post a writing prompt that you take 10 minutes to write. Just 10 minutes to give yourself a break from what you are working on now but keep you in the flow of working. It may be a topic to write about, or it may be a way of writing that you don't normally use. I am going to try to mix things up so your brain doesn't get bored.

For June, the writing prompt is:

A day in the life.

Pick someone, they can be alive, dead or even fictional, and write about a typical day in his/her life. Don't be afraid to embrace the mundane and push yourself to make it beautiful.

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If you post your "Coffee Break" responses anywhere online, I'd love to read them! Share your link in the comments!

Writing Prompt /// Coffee Break /// May 2016

Each month, I post a writing prompt that you take 10 minutes to write. Just 10 minutes to give yourself a break from what you are working on now but keep you in the flow of working. It may be a topic to write about, or it may be a way of writing that you don't normally use. I am going to try to mix things up so your brain doesn't get bored.

For May, the writing prompt is:

It was all a dream.

Recall a dream that felt so real and expand upon it. What would reality be like if your dream was real?

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If you post your "Coffee Break" responses anywhere online, I'd love to read them! Share your link in the comments!

Writing Prompt /// Coffee Break /// April 2016

Each month, I'll post a writing prompt that you take 10 minutes to write. Just 10 minutes to give yourself a break from what you are working on now but keep you in the flow of working. It may be a topic to write about, or it may be a way of writing that you don't normally use. I am going to try to mix things up so your brain doesn't get bored.

For April, the writing prompt is:

Dragon

Picture a dragon, now what do you do with it? Do you fight? Is it friendly? Write about it!

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If you post your "Coffee Break" responses anywhere online, I'd love to read them! Share your link in the comments!

New in April!

Here's a look at the new covers available for sale in the shop this month! Remember, once a cover design is purchased, that cover will no longer be available. So don't miss out!

Writing Prompt /// Coffee Break /// March 2016

Sometimes, you need to get out of your mind space, and step away from your current project. I've found that mixing things up can really help when I'm frustrated with a project and help me remember why I love my craft in the first place. With that in mind, I decided to start a new monthly segment, "Coffee Break" to help you give your mind a fresh jolt!

Each month, I'll post a writing prompt that you take 10 minutes to write. Just 10 minutes to give yourself a break from what you are working on now but keep you in the flow of working. It may be a topic to write about, or it may be a way of writing that you don't normally use. I am going to try to mix things up so your brain doesn't get bored.

For March, the writing prompt is:

Coffee or Tea?

You probably drink or both of these beverages, but at the very least know someone who enjoys one. Write about it!

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If you post your "Coffee Break" responses anywhere online, I'd love to read them! Share your link in the comments!

Pre-made Book Covers VS. Custom Designed Covers

Speaking from the design-perspective, there is a bit of a stigma attached to pre-made design products. While they are more budget-friendly, especially to someone going the self-published route, they can also look cheap. They may not fit the book's story, or feature a person that looks nothing like any of the main characters. Some pre-made products available on the market are created by amateur or beginner designers who are not practiced in informational hierarchy and are not polished in their work.

Most veteran designers encourage their clients to go the custom route, which allows for a cover that, most of the time, can better represent the story within its pages. The artwork isn't stock, the end product is polished and professional, and the client also is able to have a lot of input in the final product. However, the price point will always be higher than that of a pre-made cover.

The goal of LV Book Design is to help all authors, self-published or traditional/publisher based, reach a final product that not only they love but their readers will love as well. No matter the budget. With that in mind, I came to decision to offer high quality, pre-made covers. I didn't feel like I was offering all I could to self-published authors. Having seen first-hand the self-publishing process, and the costs that accumulate, I wanted to be able to help provide my veteran expertise to those who don't have the budget to hire a designer to create a cover for them from scratch.

There are cover artists out there who have low prices–but the old saying "You get what you pay for" holds it weight in most of these cases. I have been a designer for over ten years, and worked in publishing of one sort or the other for all them. I started LV Book Design to focus on my favorite form of publishing: the book. I wanted to offer my professionalism, my dedication to the craft, my enthusiasm for the art of writing and my many years of polished experience to self-publishing authors every where. So I sat down, and approached this project with the mindset of designing covers that I would personally be interested in picking up and reading. Normally, I have my clients fill out a questionnaire that helps me reach the right audience with the right message and the author's vision. With creating pre-made covers, I had imagine what story each cover was telling the world. Whether or not it fits with the product it eventually will go on doesn't matter to me. What I hope is that an author will see one of these designs and go "That one is perfect for my book!" Another hope is that perhaps an author or aspiring author will just be browsing and one of my covers will be inspired to tell its story.

I'll be updating the shop each month with new designs, and just know this: once a cover is sold, it will no longer be for sale. I want to help my clients as much as possible, and no one wants to share a cover!

As always, I wish you all the best and happy writing!

Getting To Know Your Designer: 10 Facts About LV

1. How did my childhood prepare me for this job?
Growing up, my world was filled with books. I began reading on my own at an early age and my family strongly encouraged my passion for reading as well as my passion for art. I had a point in my life when I was trying to decide if I wanted to become a writer or an artist; and even though design and art won out, I've never stopped loving books and have a strong respect for the craft of writing.

2. Favorite piece of art I own:
This is a tough one to answer, especially since my husband and I love to buy art every chance we get. I supposed I'd have to say that, at the moment, my favorite piece of art is a print by Sasha Yosselani that my husband got me for my birthday this year.

3. Did you know:
I've actually illustrated a children's book, Allen The Alligator Counts Through New Orleans. I also illustrate a bi-annual children's page in New Orlean's alternative weekly, Gambit, for their KIDS issues called WhoDat and WhoDon't.

4. Guilty pleasure:
Binge watching T.V. shows on Netflix and Hulu.

5. What am I currently reading:
I just finished The Crimson Crown by Cinda Williams Chima and I'm about to start Wicked Temper by Randy Thornhorn.

6. Did you know:
I have a personal blog as well, called Lazy Lady. Over there you will find more personal interests like tabletop gaming, my book club, and more.

7. Favorite part of this job:
Helping writers see their works come to life through my cover (and interior) designs. And, getting to read more books, if I'm totally honest. 

8. First book to make an impact on my life:
It's really a series. The Chronicles of Narnia.

9. Did you know:
I was one of the judges for the 2014 National Beard and Moustache Finals (picture proof to the right). It was one of the weirdest and greatest opportunities I've had the pleasure of having come my way. It was a blast and I'd do it again in a heart beat!

10. My family is:
Full and happy with my husband and our little zoo (our big cat Mei-Mei, our dog Bigby and our turtle Paul).

The Obstacle and The Path: Facing Creative Challenges & 10 Ways to Overcome Them

All creatives face challenges when we create our art. Whether you are a writer, designer or some other creative, there seems to be a familiar thread to what we all face and struggle against when we make our art.

We struggle with self-doubt, feeling uninspired, not knowing what to do/write next, procrastination, perfectionism, and the list goes on. But what can we do to overcome these hurdles that the creative process can throw at us? Here are just a few suggestions from one creative to another:

1. Change the atmosphere

Whether this means adding some new art to your work space or getting up and working somewhere completely different and new, sometimes a change of scenery is all we need to get new ideas flowing.

2. Don't be afraid to walk away
(for a little while)

Sometimes, we need to give ourselves some time away from our projects. New experiences, time spent with loved ones and even simple self-care can refresh our minds and put us in a better place to do more and create more...not to mention create better.

3. Change your medium

Sometimes we can get stifled by our art. Spend some time playing and experimenting with a new medium. If you are faced with a challenge in your writing, try drawing out the scene/character/setting to get a different perspective.

4. Always have a notebook/journal/sketchbook on hand

As you pull yourself away to go grab a cup of coffee or just go sit in a park for awhile, make sure you have something with you to just record ideas, notes about the world around you, or musings and errant thoughts that pass through your head. This will help your mind get back in the groove and perhaps give you just the inspiration you've been looking for.

5. Sleep on it

Like many creatives, we all get sleep deprived when we are working on a project. Our minds need sleep, however, to help with problem solving. Sometimes, a long nap or a good night's sleep is all we really need to get back on our A-Game.

6. Schedule it

If the obstacle holding you back is procrastination or a busy work load that prevents you from "finding time" to work on your project, then you may need to pencil it in. Putting time aside in your schedule means that it is important enough to warrant your undivided attention (which it is!). Also, if your project feels daunting, having a block of time with a start and an end can help you not feel so overwhelmed. When the time is up, if you want to stop, you have given yourself permission to do so!

7. Make a playlist

Sometimes, I need to set the mood for myself when I'm creating. I'll make a playlist that has the right tone for what I'm working on, throw on my sound-cancelling headphones and jam out. It keeps my active brain in the right mindset by having music that matches what I'm working on.

8. Redefine your problem

If that scene you are writing is causing you to pull your hair out because you just can't get "it" right, think about it differently. Change the question in your head from "how do I write this scene" to "how would C.S. Lewis (or any other person) write this scene?" Giving the problem an unfamiliar spin will help get your brain thinking about it differently.

9. Do something else that you are "the best" at doing

When we start to feel inferior because of a creative block, sometimes the best thing we can do for ourselves is go do something else that we know we are going to kick-ass at doing. Do you make the best chili? Go make some! Are you a good runner? Go for a run! Do something that will get you feeling accomplished and good about yourself again so that your self-doubts won't hold you back.

10. Always finish what you start

Finally, finish what you start! Ok, this may sound like one of those "easier said than done" solutions, but what I mean is that sometimes you just have to get it done. Just get to a conclusion or an end point and call it finished. Move on, and come back later to the parts that gave you trouble before. Don't let one road block stop you on your journey. Remember, you can always go back and edit and first drafts are rarely perfect.

FREE Workbook to help you write a novel in 2016

Did "write a novel" make it onto your 2016 resolutions list? If so, you might be struggling with how to even get started with your writing. Taking on big projects, especially ones that are as personal and as vulnerable as writing a book, can be daunting. Sometimes, we just need help getting the ball rolling. 

To help you get started, I built an extensive workbook, filled with worksheets, timelines, charts, etc. all designed to help you flush out your ideas and keep track of your story as you write.

Inside you'll find sheets to help you build your characters, develop your plot, scene creation help and much more. Sign up to receive your free copy TODAY!

And remember, you'll never finish if you never begin.

Best wishes and happy writing!