The Tales of a Contemporary Romance Writer


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Monday, April 18, 2011

Talkin' Tuesday with Diana Cosby

Much like everyone else, as an author, there is defining moments in a career. The first major one is the decision to write. The next, go forth and push the limits of yourself. Many times we must type away while enduring the endless chatter of our characters. We hide from our children, during the day, getting up early in the mornings or staying up late into the night--trying to finish 'one more scene'. It's not an easy life. Our significant others tend to get ignored. But, then something wonderful happens and the 24/7 schedule is worth all the sacrifice. Today I am pleased to announce that the one and only award winning author Diana Cosby graciously excepted my invitation to be on Talkin' Tuesday. I have to say this is a high point for me to be able to sit down with her and chat. She's wonderful person and a hell of an author!

RR-You were just featured in Woman's Day for the 'It's Never Too Late' article. Were you on top of the world or what?
DC- It was truly exciting as humbling to have been featured in the April 17th issue of Woman's Day. I've been blessed with so many people who have taken time out of their crazy lives to make a positive difference in mine, that if anything in the article helps to inspire others, it's truly a blessing.
I saved the article so I can bring it in to my Creative Writing class and say, "See! It's never too late!".

RR-You started your writing career late in life, do you feel if success had come earlier you wouldn't have been prepared for it?
DC- I believe that success later in life gave me a solid foundation of knowledge to make my decisions on, as well as friends within the industry to seek guidance. I wrote an article on this very topic:
http://www.dianacosby.com/sellinglaterincareer.html
Thanks for sharing!

RR-You were a Navy Chief Meteorologist/Oceanographer. WOW! Please explain what that is.
DC- I began my career in the Navy taking weather observations, which means going outside and noting the cloud types, temperatures, humidity and dew points then transmitting them to areas of need as well as other weather related tasks to serve the needs of the Navy. After several year, I attended forecasting school, then returned to the fleet to write weather forecast in support of military operations. My busiest deployment was serving on the flight desk in Spain during Operation Desert Storm.
My family has a military background--thank you for serving, it's an honor to know you.

RR-You've said it was your Naval Military background that taught you to dream big and never give up. Was there ever a moment when you didn't think all the early morning writing (she used to get up at 4:00 am, before everyone else, so she could write) was going to pay off?
DC- Many times I had my doubts, but with each, my military training taught me to dig deep and persevere.
Plus, drink a LOT of coffee!

RR-Where did you get the idea for you series?
DC- I've always been intrigued by stones as their meanings. I thought it'd be neat to mold a series around stones touched with magic, hence the MacGruder Brothers series was born.  :)
And, what a series it is. :)
diana&nora 
FOR FUN
You met my idol, Nora Roberts, and had a book signing with her. Was it like totally awesome, or what?! Honestly, I think I'd be speechless. The day would go down in history!
Nora Roberts is a gracious, warm and wonderful person. It was my honor to meet her as to have the opportunity to do a book signing with her. The day was truly magical, and a memory I will cherish forever.

Independent cat or happy-go-lucky dog?
Independent cat.

Beer and TV or Wine and cheese?
Wine and cheese.

Insanely organized or organized mess?
Insanely organized.

BACK TO WORK
RR-What is your favorite read/series?
DC- Wow, really tough! There are sooo many authors out there that write amazing stories. My first choice would definitely be historicals!

RR-Who got you into reading?
DC- I was a loner in my youth and the librarian introduced me to the fabulous journey found in books.

RR-Are your children big readers? Do they read your books?
DC- My oldest son in the Marines loves to read, with my daughter in the Marines close on his heels. My youngest, entering the Marine Corps later this year likes reading, but prefers to focus on other interests more.
Sounds like you've raised some wonderful kids. :)

http://www.illusionsgallery.com/godspeed-L.jpg 
RR-People have asked me what my ultimate goal is to buy when I'm a success. I want new windows in my house. What are you going to get or have gotten to celebrate your success?
DC- For inspiration for my series, I bought, "Godspeed," by Edmund Leighton:
What a beautiful print. I can see why it's inspirational. 

RR-Looking back, what was the pivotal turning point in your career?
DC- Joining Romance Writers of America (RWA) and connecting with other writing professionals.

RR-You donate 10% of your royalties to the charities of your choice. What a wonderful thing! When and what moved you to do this?
DC- Throughout my life I've been blessed with so many people who have made a positive difference in mine, and I've always enjoyed giving back and if possible, inspiring others to go for their dreams. 

RR-Any advice for aspiring writers?
DC- Define your dreams. Until you know what you want, how can you go after or achieve them? Follow your heart, believe in yourself and persevere. Only YOU can write the story within your heart!
Great advice, Diana. :)

Diana's 3rd book in the MacGruder brothers series, "His Conquest", is now out.  Enjoy! (I love her covers. Heeheehee)



Seathan MacGruder, Earl of Grey, is not unused to cheating death.  But

even this legendary Scottish warrior is surprised when a beautiful

Englishwoman creeps to his cell and offers him his freedom.  What Linet

wants in exchange, though—safe passage to the Highlands—is a steep

price to pay.  For the only thing more dangerous than the journey through

embattled Scotland is the desire that smolders between these two fugitives

the first time they touch . . . 








Thanks again for talking with me, Diana, I know you're a busy woman. Hope you all enjoyed the visit and I hope to see you next week when I have Rita Vetere sitting down for a cuppa.


Have a Sparkling Day!
Rebecca Rose 

35 comments:

  1. Good morning Rebecca,
    My sincere thanks for the fun interview and having me on Talkin' Tuesday! I believe it's ultra important for people to have goals, to believe in themselves and along the way in the paths of their life to help others learn that their dreams can come true. Have a fabulous day!

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  2. Great interview and a lovely blogsite. I don't think my 'defining moment' has happened yet. I'm still a work in progress. :)

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  3. Great interview, and I think realizing that it was okay to want to be a writer and spend time doing it was my biggest breakthrough (so far). I didn't realize something I enjoyed naturally could be a true form of work, craft and accomplishment.

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  4. Diana, thank you for coming by this morning. I truly believe we meet people for a reason. I also believe in giving a smile to anyone who looks like they're in need. Even the person who cut you off during your trip to the grocery store may be having a moment of crisis. Be nice, I always tell my kids, you may be the one who makes a difference in their life.

    Susan, if you sat down to write, that was a defining moment. Be patient, things happen in their own time. I'm so glad you stopped by!

    Have a Sparkling Day!
    Rebecca Rose

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  5. Nice interview, Diana. Rebecca asked some interesting questions. You are an inspiration to many writers. I'm honored to have you as my friend.

    Shirley Rogerson
    aka Shirley Rogers

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  6. Wonderful post Rebecca and Diana! Diana, I'm always intrigued by your incredible life in the Navy. Any chance you'll write more about that experience and we'll get a series with a naval meteorologist heroine at some future date? With her acute powers of observation I can just see her solving mysteries and murders on her ships! What do you think?

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  7. I guess my defining moment as a writer was seeing one of my books in the grocery store. I know, not that big a deal, but it was to me. My youngest daughter was with me and said, "Wow, you really are a writer." LOL

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  8. What a great interview! I love the "never too late theme" (and not just because it applies to me, teehee!) because it is so true. And if that series about the Navy meteoroligist that Elizabeth suggested comes down the pike...well, let's just say that'll go right on my "yes" list :)

    My defining moment as a writer came the first time anyone asked me what I do for a living and, without thinking about it, I replied, "I write romance novels". From there on in, it defined me and I, it. Caroline, I love that you feel that way about seeing your books in the store. How cool is that?!

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  9. Elizabeth, what a wonderful idea!
    Caroline, It Was A Big Deal! Congratulations. :)
    Shirley and Vanessa, thanks for stopping by.

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  10. Hi Rebecca, a good interview! Thanks for sharing. Enjoy hearing how we can start writing late in life, its never too late, right? I was moved by the fact Diana donates 10% of her royalties to charity. That is an inspiration. I agree that (I hope) the turning point in my career as a writer has been this past couple of months becoming part of a writing community - and that will help me grow into the writer I want to be - just like Diana has done!

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  11. You will, Donna. I love reading your blog and I'm so happy we met--it was meant be. :)
    Thank you for being here!

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  12. Rebecca, Loved the post and interview.
    Diana-always great to hear you talk about dreams and goals at our 'perfect' age where experience and intelligence have merged to give us our goals. I'm enjoying your MacGruder series and look forward to seeing more of your talent in near future.
    Hugs!
    Loni

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  13. Susan Charnley said: Great interview and a lovely blogsite.

    ~Hi Susan, thank you very much for dropping by. I agree, Rebecca’s interview was fun. 

    I don't think my 'defining moment' has happened yet. I'm still a work in progress. :)

    ~I look forward to your sharing your defining moment in the future. Wishing you every success!

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  14. Vanessa said: Great interview, and I think realizing that it was okay to want to be a writer and spend time doing it was my biggest breakthrough (so far). I didn't realize something I enjoyed naturally could be a true form of work, craft and accomplishment.

    ~Hi Vanessa, my sincere thanks for taking the time to stop by and say hi. Fabulous life moment. It’s when we give ourselves the gift of following our hearts that our true passion comes through. Wishing you every success!

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  15. srogers said: Nice interview, Diana.

    ~Hi Shirley, thank you, always fabulous to see you! *Hugs*

    Rebecca asked some interesting questions.

    ~:) She definitely made the interview fun!

    You are an inspiration to many writers. I'm honored to have you as my friend.

    ~I assure you, I’m blessed by your friendship. You’re an incredible writer as friend. *Hugs*
    Love you!

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  16. Elizabeth Essex said: Wonderful post Rebecca and Diana!

    ~:) Hey, always fabulous to see you! ^5

    Diana, I'm always intrigued by your incredible life in the Navy. Any chance you'll write more about that experience and we'll get a series with a naval meteorologist heroine at some future date? With her acute powers of observation I can just see her solving mysteries and murders on her ships! What do you think?

    ~*G* Believe it or not, my experience in the navy threads through my stories in the tension, challenges and so on my characters face. I always chuckle when I think of myself with an m-14 in the jungle of Guam on ops. LOL Take care and I wish you continued success! ^5

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  17. Caroline Clemmons said: I guess my defining moment as a writer was seeing one of my books in the grocery store. I know, not that big a deal, but it was to me.

    ~It is a HUGE deal, Caroline! *Hugs*

    My youngest daughter was with me and said, "Wow, you really are a writer." LOL

    ~Such a special life moment. Thank you so much for sharing! Caroline, you’re an amazing person as writer, and I wish you continued success! *Hugs*

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  18. Kimberly said: What a great interview! I love the "never too late theme" (and not just because it applies to me, teehee!) because it is so true.

    ~Hi Kimberly, I appreciate your stopping by. I agree, it’s up to us to define when we stop going after our dreams.

    And if that series about the Navy meteorologist that Elizabeth suggested comes down the pike...well, let's just say that'll go right on my "yes" list :)

    ~:) Kimberly, as I told Elizabeth, a lot of my military training as meteorology knowledge is filtered into my stories. I love writing visuals. I always joke I could write four pages of a leaf falling. You know, it’s true. LOL

    My defining moment as a writer came the first time anyone asked me what I do for a living and, without thinking about it, I replied, "I write romance novels". From there on in, it defined me and I, it.

    ~*Hugs* It so does. Keep writing as believing in yourself. I sincerely wish you every success! ^5

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  19. DonnaGalanti said: Hi Rebecca, a good interview! Thanks for sharing. Enjoy hearing how we can start writing late in life, its never too late, right?

    ~Hi Donna, thank you so much for taking the time to stop by. Indeed, it’s never to late to start defining as going after our dreams. ^5

    I was moved by the fact Diana donates 10% of her royalties to charity. That is an inspiration. I agree that (I hope) the turning point in my career as a writer has been this past couple of months becoming part of a writing community - and that will help me grow into the writer I want to be - just like Diana has done!

    ~Donna, that you’ve aligned yourself with a professional writing group is an excellent step in moving forward in your goals. You’re now connected with a venue where you can educate yourself about writing, the industry side of writing as well as networking and making some amazing friends. Take care and I wish you every success! *Hugs*

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  20. Loni Lynne said: Rebecca, Loved the post and interview. Diana-always great to hear you talk about dreams and goals at our 'perfect' age where experience and intelligence have merged to give us our goals.

    ~Hi Loni, thank you so much for taking the time to stop by. One profound bit of insight I read from one of my favorite inspirational speaker, Brian Tracy, is that all of the decisions and trials we’ve overcome through life have brought us to this point, has defined us to the person we are. It’s up to us to choose to live in the past or to take the knowledge gained and move forward in a positive, defined way where we achieve success.

    I'm enjoying your MacGruder series and look forward to seeing more of your talent in near future.

    ~Thank you so much for your kind as humbling words, Loni. You made my day! I love the MacGruder brothers, and I hope to soon post more exciting news about the last two books of the 6 book series.


    Hugs!

    ~*Hugs* Wishing you every success!^5

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  21. Great interview! Love your books and the way you support so many authors. You're an inspiration!

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  22. Wonderful interview, Diana. I love your books, blogs, and articles. Great tips and such a nice lady.

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  23. Robin Kaye said: Great interview!

    ~Hi Robin, thank you so much for stopping by. Rebecca made the interview fun. :)

    Love your books and the way you support so many authors. You're an inspiration!

    ~As I said, sincerely, I’ve truly been blessed by so many amazing people along the way. To me it’s humbling and I’m thankful if I can help others as they strive to achieve their dream. I’m so proud of all of your accomplishments, and I wish you continued success! ^5 *Hugs*

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  24. Anita Clenney said: Wonderful interview, Diana.

    ~Thank you so much, Anita, and I sincerely appreciate you stopping by The credit for the interview goes to Rebecca who made the interview fun! :)

    I love your books, blogs, and articles. Great tips and such a nice lady.

    ~*Hugs* Thank you so much for your kind words. I love writing and feel blessed that others enjoy them as well. Take care and enjoy your evening, and I wish you every success!

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  25. I enjoyed the interview, Diana and Rebecca! And Diana, thank you for providing a link to your article. What terrific advice you provide--it definitely resonated with me.

    I look forward to reading Seathan and Linet's story!

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  26. Hi Diana,
    I enjoyed the interview. You're an inspiration for making it in the writing world! Good luck to you!

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  27. Kathy Altman said: I enjoyed the interview, Diana and Rebecca! And Diana, thank you for providing a link to your article. What terrific advice you provide--it definitely resonated with me.

    ~*Hugs* Kathy, thank you so much for stopping by. If anything helped, that’s what it’s all about!

    I look forward to reading Seathan and Linet's story!

    ~I sincerely hope you enjoy His Conquest. I have a blast writing their journey. :) Take care, enjoy your evening, and I wish you every success!

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  28. Karilyn Bentley said:
    Hi Diana,
    I enjoyed the interview. You're an inspiration for making it in the writing world! Good luck to you!

    ~Hi Karilyn, thank you so much for taking the time to stop by. We define ourselves by our beliefs. I say, dare to dream then achieve your goals. We CAN do it! Take care, thank you for your kind words, and I wish you every success! ^5

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  29. Rebecca,
    My sincere thanks for the interview and having me on today's blog. It was a blast. If anyone posts after today, I will return and reply to them.
    My sincere thanks as well to everyone who stopped by. Take care, believe in yourself as your dreams, and I wish each of you every success! *Hugs*

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  30. Diana, thank you for being here! I'd love to have you back, sometime. You're a wonderful person.
    Thank you everyone for stopping in!

    Have a Sparkling Day!
    Rebecca Rose

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  31. I'm a day late, but great interview, Rebecca and Diana! I'm so pleased for your success, Diana, and proud to call you a friend!

    Light,
    Nancy Haddock
    www.nancyhaddock.com

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  32. Better late than never, I say! I enjoyed this interview. As an aspiring writer, I appreciate the candid responses, Diana. Some days, I wonder what I was thinking when I picked up the pen. Other days, I can't write fast enough. I feel better knowing that those blessed to have been published have similar days!

    Rebecca, love the look of your blog!

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  33. Nancy said: I'm a day late, but great interview, Rebecca and Diana!

    ~Hi Nancy, thank you so much for stopping by. *Hugs* Always fabulous to see you!

    I'm so pleased for your success, Diana, and proud to call you a friend!

    ~Nancy, you’re an amazing person whom I’m blessed to call friend. *Hugs* I’m ultra-proud of you and wish you continued success. Can't wait for your new release! ^5

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  34. Mia Stoll said: Better late than never, I say! I enjoyed this interview.

    ~Hi Mia, thank you so much for taking the time to stop by, and for your kind words.

    As an aspiring writer, I appreciate the candid responses, Diana. Some days, I wonder what I was thinking when I picked up the pen. Other days, I can't write fast enough. I feel better knowing that those blessed to have been published have similar days!

    ~Oh yeah, I have those challenge days often. :) But, the key is to believe in yourself and persevere! Take care and I wish you every success! ^5

    Diana Cosby, AGC(AW), USN Ret.
    www.dianacosby.com

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  35. Nancy and Mia, never worry, friends are always welcome--even when late. Heck, I'm ALWAYS late. Thank you for coming by. :)
    Rebecca Rose

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