Radclyffe is an author and editor of lesbian novels and fiction. She has written more than 35 lesbian romance novels and dozens of short stories. She is the editor of Best Lesbian Romance series for Cleis Press. She’s won the Lambda Literary Award, Prism Award and Independent Publisher’s Award. She is also the founder of Bold Stroke Books.
What’s your favorite type of story to read?
Regardless of genre, I am looking for a story in which the characters jump off the page and the plot is gripping. I, like every reader, want to lose myself in another world, where what happens to the characters on their journey is so compelling I can’t put the story down until the end.
What’s your favorite type of story to write?
I like to write intense moments where every word, whether it’s dialogue or narrative, is critical to creating a story that pulls the reader in and doesn’t let go. Most often, these are moments of physical and emotional connection. As a result, I like writing stories/novels which include sex, which always involves both.
What do you look for when choosing a story for an anthology such as Best Lesbian Romance 2012?
I’m looking for an old story told in a new way. Most people who talk about plot make the remark that there are no new stories, only new versions of classic stories. The “romance” has been around for centuries, and the focus was generally a quest, which historically was that of a young man leaving home to make his mark in the world but has evolved into being a personal journey of growth catalyzed by an intimate interaction with another person. In other words, I’m looking for a story that shows intense interpersonal interactions that leave the reader believing these two women will continue on in life together.
Do you think romance is different for lesbians than straight women or gay men?
I don’t. I think the elements of a romance are the same for anyone–intimacy, desire, passion, commitment, and what we call, but can never define completely, love.
You’ve written so many books, what keeps you going?
Other than the fact that this is my job and I enjoy doing it? Not a week passes when I don’t get an e-mail from someone who was just discovered queer fiction. The sense of joy, validation and affirmation these readers experience convinces me week after week that what we do is important and valuable. I enjoy the process of creating, and being able to create a product that makes a difference in some small way in the lives of others is tremendously gratifying.
Anything else you want to tell us about what you’re up to or upcoming books?
I am currently accepting submissions for two more anthologies–Best Lesbian Romance 2013 and a lesbian couples anthology looking at love and passion after the honeymoon. I’ll be editing these for Cleis Press. Personally, I have three new releases with Bold Strokes Books this year–the third in my paranormal romance series, Night Hunt written as L.L. Rand, Oath of Honor in July, and Crossroads, in November. The last two are Radclyffe romances.
Thanks very much for the opportunity to do this interview.
Radclyffe
