Tell us about your book(s)!
I fell in love with romance novels when I was a teenager, and I’ve been addicted ever since. As the years went on, I also became interested in writing my own stories. Shortly after Amazon announced their KDP program, I decided to take the plunge and self-published my first historical romance novel, Until You. I was surprised, and continue to be, at the love/hate reactions this book receives. While most people seem to truly enjoy the book, a handful of reviewers have left some very scathing reviews, primarily due to the main character, Nicholas, and his “cruel” treatment of the heroine, Ashleigh. Personally, I love Nicholas. I don’t see him as cruel at all, just a man trying to protect himself in the only way he knows how, a man who has been deeply hurt and just needs the right woman to fight for him and break down his emotional barriers. Regardless, it was an amazing feeling to be able to put my story out there for people to read, and hopefully enjoy.
Since then, I have self-published three more historical novels and one contemporary novella. While historicals are by far my favorite, I am currently working on my first full-length contemporary novel which I hope to have finished by the end of January.
Any tips on how to get through the dreaded writer’s block?
Unfortunately, no. I’m still trying to figure that out myself.
What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?
I love reading positive reviews. When my self-confidence is faltering, as it often does, they are just what I need to give me the motivation to keep on writing. Unfortunately, negative reviews can often do just the opposite. Regardless, I do read every review, good or bad, and though it’s sometimes difficult, I always try to learn from them, especially the bad. However, I have to say that some reviews can be downright mean, and those do hurt.
I love to read. I used to read about 4-5 books a week when I was younger, but since having kids I’m lucky if I can read 1 or 2 a month. But when I do manage to get some free time, reading is my favorite thing to do to unwind.
What is your favorite motivational phrase?
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Wayne Gretzky
What is your favorite book?
The Twilight Series (Yes, I admit it.)
Who is your favorite author?
Judith McNaught
What is your favorite movie?
An Officer and a Gentleman
Which famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?
This may sound silly, but I would love to meet Robert Pattinson in person. He’s just so darn handsome. His is the face I picture whenever I think of the heroes in my books.
What is the most interesting trip you have ever taken?
I recently went to Hawaii (the big island) with my family. Living in the Midwest, it was very different from what I’m used to and a wonderful new experience. Next stop – Paris.
What was your most embarrassing moment?
When I was 20, my friend and I wanted to go to a sold-out Garth Brooks concert. We entered a radio contest to try and win tickets and back stage passes. We dressed up as pigs and stood in a large barrel filled to the top with pork and beans and oinked to the lyrics of Shameless in front of a huge crowd of people. Unfortunately we didn’t win the backstage passes, but we did get tickets to the concert. And yes, it was worth it.
Lighting Round:
White wine or red? Neither. I just don’t like the taste.
Coffee or tea? Neither. I’m addicted to Vanilla Coke.
Cook dinner or order take-out/delivery? Take out/delivery. I’m a terrible cook. (But I do make good lasagna.)
Vanilla or chocolate ice-cream? Vanilla ice-cream with chocolate syrup on top, then I mix it all together. Yummy!
Pancakes or eggs? It’s a tie. I love them both.
Sleep in or get up early? I love to sleep in. I need at least nine hours a night to function.
Laptop or desktop for writing? I prefer using a desktop. I just can’t get find a laptop keyboard I like.
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Happy New Year!!!!