# Please introduce yourself and your book(s)!
I’m Gina Buonaguro, and I write historical fiction. Thank you for your interest! My newest novel, set in 1509 Italy, is The Virgins of Venice. I started my writing career with a coauthor, and we wrote six books together. Three are historical fiction: The Sidewalk Artist (a dual timeline about the artist Raphael), Ciao Bella (WWII), and The Wolves of St. Peter’s (mystery set during the time Michelangelo was painting the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel). We also together wrote three genre romances under the pen name Meadow Taylor: Falling For Rain (set in rural Ontario), The Billionaire’s Secrets (set in Newfoundland), and Midnight in Venice.
# What is/are the real-life story(ies) behind your book(s)?
In my fiction, I aim to bring the forgotten stories of women to life. In The Virgins of Venice and based on the historical record, I tell the stories of two noble teenage sisters whose paths in life are set out to them by their father: one will marry while the other will become a nun.
# What inspires/inspired your creativity?
I am inspired by historical facts and trying to imagine the very real emotions experienced by the people of those times. I’m also very much inspired by Italy.
# How do you deal with creative block?
I make myself research, read, write, market, or just do something book related. I also regularly apply to grants, because there is nothing like a deadline to force a little creativity!
# What are the biggest mistakes you can make in a book?
Not having enough plot. Things need to happen in your book; otherwise you will lose most readers. You also need feedback at the right times but ideally more than just one person. When you have a few, you can see the commonalities that crop up and work on those.
# Do you have tips on choosing titles and covers?
In my case, the covers have been designed by my publishers, so I don’t have a ton of say although I do have veto power or sometimes a choice. As for titles, I find choosing them really hard. I usually make lists of possible titles and, for my latest book, I then did a poll of my friends and readers.
# How do bad reviews and negative feedback affect you and how do you deal with them?
It can be tough to take in bad reviews. If it’s just a few, I kind of dismiss them because of course people have personal tastes and preferences. Not everyone will necessarily like my books. When there are a lot with the same comments, that is something to consider, which is why you try to have advance readers to prevent that from happening.
# What are your plans for future books?
I am currently plotting a followup to The Virgins of Venice. I also want to write an Italian immigrant story set in New York City in the early 20th century.
You can learn about me and my books by visiting ginabu.com. Thank you!