Janet Evanovich

Janet EvanovichJanet Evanovich is the author of many romantic adventure novels, including the Stephanie Plum series.

What is your method for overcoming writer’s block?

Sit your ass in the chair and don't get up until you have something on the computer screen. Get over making chapter one perfect. And outline well enough so that you don't paint yourself into a plot corner 3/4 through the manuscript.

What are your favorite or most helpful writing prompts?

I don't have prompts. I just show up for work every day.

What is the most valuable advice you received as a young writer?

One of my early editors told me to never hold anything back. Put all your good ideas into the book you're writing and hope to God you have more good ideas for your next book. Also, set aside a portion of time each day to write. Turn off your phone, don't put in another load of wash and don't cheat by answering e-mail. It doesn't have to be a long period of time, but it has to be used exclusively for writing.