Tamara Whitlow Interview Published on: 12, May 2020
Where were you born? Which is your fondest childhood memory?
I was born in Columbus, Ohio. Exploring is what I remember most about my childhood. I love being outdoors and I was a tomboy so I would always be in a tree or something dangerous.
Have you always wanted to be a writer? When did you first realize you wanted to be an author?I’m not sure that I’ve always wanted to become a writer, but I loved to put my thoughts on paper. In high school, I started writing poetry and that’s where I felt that THIS is what I wanted to do. I love telling stories and writing gave me that avenue.
Why do you think it took you 42 years to finally do what you love?Like so many people, I put others before myself. I am a mother first and foremost. When my children were at an age that I felt that they could handle me becoming just a little distant, I started back to writing. My oldest was graduating high school and my youngest was going in to middle school.
What finally motivated you to start writing?Reading really motivated me to write. I know the types of stories that I like and who better to tell a story than me?
What draws you to the genre of romance?I love happy endings. I love a good story that has strong leads. Love is always the answer.
How did you begin writing Worth The Wait series? How much ‘world building’ takes place before you start writing a series?Worth the Wait was actually started from a dream. The main character was supposed to be Emily and it was very “Hallmark.” I wanted her to find love after losing a husband and it took off from there. There was really no “word building” to go on. The characters literally write their own stories.
What inspired the plot of " Finding N"? Do you find it more challenging to write the first book in a series or to write the subsequent novels?Finding N was fun to write. Jacob needed to grow up and this was the perfect way to “ground” him. He needed a “Natalie” to help him grow up. It was so much easier to write the second book because I “knew” Jacob in my head.
What made you decide to write your book, Reformed: Book 3.5 Sequel of Finding N?REFORMED was written because we needed some type of closure for Layla. There have been lots of readers who reached out to ask, “what happened to Layla?”
Who inspired the character of Jamie in “Finally Home”?Jamie was inspired by the type of friend that I always wanted to be. Quirky, funny and loves everyone. She is the friend that I needed my readers to relate to and love. She carries a lot of us through each book.
If there was anything you could say to your younger self, what would you say?Don’t let anyone stop you from doing what you love.
What are your plans for the future? Where do you see yourself as an author in 10 years’ time?My future plans are to have multiple books done. I want the world to be filled with love and hope and if I can provide that, I will keep writing.
What is the most challenging part of writing a romance book?The most challenging part to me is being as non-offensive as possible. There is an array of people in different age groups that read my books. I try to keep the love scenes as clean as possible but have them be believable.
What are you currently working on?I am currently working on Matt’s book! This will be the final book of the series!
What are the things you're doing to keep yourself mentally and emotionally healthy during this pandemic?I have taken a little time away from work to spend with my youngest son. Since he is learning from home, I need to be as close to him as possible. I’m still writing in my spare time but I have given myself permission to take a mental break.
How did you first come across the AllAuthor website? What do you like or dislike about the site?I absolutely love the AllAuthor site. I have met so many new authors and the banners are amazing. I can’t say that I dislike anything about the site at this time. Everyone has been so helpful. I was told about joining by another author Gina Manis that runs a romance Facebook page.
