I make a playlist for each book I write and post them on my website. Each song means something to me and whenever I hear it, it always takes me back to where I was when I was working on the book. https://www.robinbenway.com/playlists/
Robin Benway by Lovato Images
When I write, I listen to music on big noise-cancelling headphones and my dog Hudson gets very jealous. I end up having to put his dog bed on the dining room table next to my computer, and he snoozes while I work. It's not the most professional-looking environment, but it gets the job done.
I wish I were one of those writers who sits down and writes 1,000 words a day, but I'm not. I'll go weeks (and sometimes months) without writing a word, and then write 100 pages in three days. I think I need that creative adrenaline rush to make the characters "talk" to me.
The idea for FAR FROM THE TREE came to me while I was sitting in a grocery store parking lot. The song "Cosmic Love" by Florence + the Machine came on the radio and it immediately made me think about siblings, adoption, and the unique love families have for one another. No one was more surprised than me by this turn of events!
I was born just outside of Los Angeles, California on the night of a full moon. Make of that what you will.
If I wasn't a writer, I would love to be a cellist. Keep in mind that I've never even touched a cello, much less played one, but I still think it would be a cool job.
At the end of every first draft of a book, I always type "THE END," followed by the day, time, and my location. For me, finishing the first draft is the most difficult part of writing a book, so I like to have a little memory of the moment when I complete it.
When I'm not writing, I love to refinish vintage furniture. The biggest piece I ever worked on was a 9-drawer dresser that I painted dark blue. I'm so happy with how it turned out, and I'm also so happy that that project is over!
I don't have a sweet tooth, I have a salty one. I could eat french fries for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert.
My most prized possession is my grandmother's antique thimble collection. It hangs on the wall of my dining room and always reminds me of her.
