What is the name of your hometown and what do you think is the best thing about the place?
I'm from a place called Goldsboro, NC. That helps pinpoint me, haha. I love its location. It's super close to the beach (my happy place) and you can also easily get a multitude of other places.
What is the most adventurous thing you have ever done? What do you like doing in your spare time apart from annoying your cat?
Adventurous isn't really in my blood. But if I had to say something, I'd probably mention the slingshot ride I let my husband talk me into doing at Cedar Point. And besides annoying my cat (which is great fun), I enjoy reading, crafting, and spending time with friends and family.
Why did you choose the romance genre? What is the most challenging thing about writing romance books?
I don't know that I chose romance more than it chose me. I've dabbled in different genres over the years and found that I enjoyed romance the most out of all the other ones I attempted. The most challenging thing about the genre is making sure everything makes sense and that you aren't too...trite I guess. It's expected, but I like to try and step outside that box if I can.
How do you keep your stories interesting and from becoming repetitive?
I try to think of different situations that could work for stories. And I try very hard to not emulate other stories. There will be overlap to some extent, but I don't want each book to read like they're the same, so I try to hit different marketing trends.
How did you begin writing the Southern Sands series? When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I got the idea for Southern Sands when I was visiting my parents last summer. I went to a benefit concert that had a southern rock cover band playing. It just kinda steamrolled from there.
What is the most surprising thing you discovered about dating agencies while writing your book, "Graceful Matchmaking?"
Dating agencies have a pretty strenuous vetting process actually. There used to be a TV show called Millionaire Matchmaker I think and that kinda helped me at least get started.
What is the significance of the title, "Short Stop to Love?" What was the highlight of writing this book?
There's really no significance in the title Short Stop to Love. I was trying to figure out something that would be a pun (because I love plays on words) and that would also encapsulate the main themes.
Who inspired the character of Jenny in "Love on a Holiday?" What do you love the most about her character?
This one is easy. I used one of my very best friends as the basis for her character and then built from there.
What is the most challenging part about being an author?
Making myself write each day even when I don't feel like it. I love writing and crafting stories, but like any job, it can get tiring.
What was your hardest scene to write in "Veronica?" How would you describe the relationship between Veronica and Levi?
The hardest scene was the one where she left toward the end. It wasn't easy and I knew it would make readers angry, but I thought it a necessary part of her arc.
If your book, "Jax" was to be made into a movie, who are the celebrities that would star in it?
Oh, yikes. I don't know if I can answer this. Haha. I can say that Charlie Hunnam helped craft the main character with looks, but that's about the only one I've got.
Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?
I think each person's journey with writing is different, so what I say might not apply. Remember that self-care is important. You need to still take time off and time for yourself otherwise you'll burn out.
How many plot ideas are just waiting to be written? Can you tell us about one?
Too many to count honestly. I have a document that I update with different ideas I get. One I've toyed with, but am a while from writing, is one that military based simply because I have experience with the military since I'm a spouse.
What are your top five writing and marketing tips?
Have a plan. Have good covers. Don't be scared to ask for help. Try to do whatever you can yourself. Write everyday.
What are some tools you use for book promotions? How did you come to know about AllAuthor and what are your thoughts on this website?
I'm still trying to figure out the promotion side of things really. I mainly just use social media and am working on figuring out advertisements. I heard about AllAuthor because of other indie authors mentioning it and how awesome it was. So I thought it was worth it to explore. So far, I have no regrets. Very helpful customer service, great incentives to be a paying member, and so many other things.
