9/13/2012
1. What was the inspiration for your novel?
I am a huge Art History buff and have studied the stories behind the art for years. I also love to travel and especially enjoy visiting the world’s
museums. What got me started on this piece was when I started noticing, not just the art in these museums, but their security. Then I began plotting what I would need to do to steal the work. One brainstorm led to another and soon I had this idea burning up inside of me that I needed to capture on paper.
2. When did you take up writing?
I’ve always been telling stories but when the idea for this novel came along, I just had to get it down on paper and I could not stop!
3. How important is setting/place in your writing?
Hugely important. My setting is split between where I currently live, Los Angeles and one of my
favourite places to travel, Paris. LA is a huge city with some many neighbourhoods, each rich with character
and I love writing about it. Paris is just magical and when I write about it, the fond memories overflow.
4. Do you have a favourite character (s) in your current novel?
A supporting character named George was way too fun to write. He is loosely based on the character Wash from the cult sci-fi series Firefly and I loved every moment writing him.
5. What’s the best piece of writing advice you were ever given?
“This is great, Don’t stop!” After finishing off the first few chapters I contacted a trusted friend and asked her if she thought it was any good and if I should keep going. Those few words got me going and gave me the courage to see it
through.
6. Do you have a schedule for writing?
Yes! Otherwise I would never get anything done. I am highly structured and a believer in check lists. I also limit myself to the time and energy spent promoting my current novel so I spend a significant amount of time writing.
7. Are you a plotter or someone who tends to wing it?
I make detailed notes to begin with to keep me on track, then I let it all flow as naturally as possible while I actually write the first draft. After the first draft I go into OCD mode. I plot, plan and live by my checklists to get through the revision and editing stages.
8. Can you name three of four of your current favourite books?
I love the Mary Russell Series by Laurie R. King and the Miss Marple series by Agatha Christie. I am also venturing into the world of young adult and current love the Lux series by Jennifer Armentrout.
9. Can you tell me a little bit about what you are working on now?
I am actually splitting my time between two projects. The Inexperienced Thief is a sequel to my first novel and follows Vivien on her adventures in the world of art and crime. This one takes place in Paris and Florence. Also, I have a
YA Sci-fi/ Dystopian I am just starting to map out about the future and ethics of genetic engineering called
The UnAltered.
10. What advice would you give to a fledgling writer to assist them on their journey?
It’s a journey and not a destination so keep on trucking and remember to pace yourself.
You can find The Inadvertent Thief here:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-inadvertent-thief-leti-del-mar/1111429063?ean=2940014772037
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0089CLOZQ
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/169870
To learn more about Leti visit her blog
www.wordswithletidelmar.blogspot.com
Or find her on social media
www.twitter.com/leti_delmar
www.facebook.com/letidelmar
