Celebrating Romance Awareness Month!

Since August is romance awareness month, I'd like to and my thoughts on romance writing. I just finished reading a book where the main character belittles another for writing romance saying there's nothing to writing romance. This is a theme that's often repeated in romance books and in Hallmark movies.

However, to write a romance that keeps your reader turning the pages rather than toss the book aside, takes skill and a lot of hard work.The key to writing a successful romance is bringing the reader into the emotional side of the story by adding conflicts that could pull them apart until the couple realizes their relationship is important and they're willing to overcome obstacles to be together.

Romance genres regularly outsell all other types of fiction. Last year’s statistics show romance books accounted for over 39 million books sold. There's definitely a demand for this type of writing. Reading romance is opening your heart to the thought that love indeed does conquer all.

Love is not just for romance novels, it's found in children's books as well. Here's a good example..."How do you spell love?’ asked Piglet. ‘You don’t spell it, you feel it,’ said Pooh.” —Winnie-the-Pooh, A.A. Milne

And here's a quote from one of the few books that I've read twice... “You should be kissed and often, and by someone who knows how.” —Gone With The Wind, Margaret Mitchell

Here's a read quote from an author that you wouldn't expect would talk about love... “You are my heart, my life, my one and only thought.” —The White Company, Arthur Conan Doyle

“We’re all a little weird. And when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall into mutually satisfying weirdness—and call it love — true love.”  Robert Fulghum, True Love Stories

“True love is rare, and it’s the only thing that gives life real meaning.” Nicholas Sparks, Message in a Bottle

Romance movies have the opportunity to show the emotional connections visually, but they also need great lines to grab your heart. Here's one of my favorite movie quotes from When Harry met Sally… “When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible."

As you celebrate the romantic side of life this month, pick up a sweet romance novel or two to read. Let the genre give you an escape from everyday life and make you smile and feel happy about happy ever after endings even when you know there will still be challenges along the way. Ready for a romance story? Pick up one or more of my new releases whose covers you see on this post, I'd greatly appreciate it!

Here's the link to my Amazon page to learn more about these books and others as well. https://www.amazon.com/stores/Christine-L.-Henderson/author/B09L2Y7XNP

Writing Connected Books: Author Interview with Lorana Hoopes

You’ve now published several books, but what inspired you to write that first one? What made you choose contemporary romance?

My first book was inspired by a weird event. My husband and I did a 5k once a week downtown and we always took our kids. My youngest was probably 6 months and as we parked there was a woman in front of Planned Parenthood waving a sign that said, "I love my reproductive rights." 

It broke my heart as I strapped my infant daughter in the stroller and that night, I just felt like God was calling me to write this story. I fought Him for days because I didn't think anyone would want to read it, but finally I gave in. I would write until I had no more words, go to sleep and wake up with more words. 

How long did it take you to write your first book that was published?

I finished the book in a month. It wasn't originally a romance, but more of a women's fiction, but eventually it went through some changes and became more of a romance. I owe that to Evangeline Kelly who helped me out as I didn't really read a lot of romances. 

What’s the best encouragement you’ve had in your writing?
Wow, the best encouragement actually just happened. I got word that my book - In the Light of Day - was chosen as the Reader's Favorite Silver Medal winner for romantic suspense. That was big for me.

Marketing is the biggest key to making sales. What is the best marketing source you've used that has produced more sales rather than just clicks?
Bookbub was huge for awhile, but my last one wasn't that great. Generally, I'd say Faithful Reads as they cater to Christian readers and tend to get good results, but honestly, I think the market is too saturated for even those to be great now.

What do you know now about writing you wished you had known sooner?
Writing connected series. When I first started writing billionaires, they didn't really go together other than they all featured a billionaire. One day I'll go back and fix that, but when I wrote the Texas Tornado series and The Men of Fire Beach series, I made sure one book led naturally to the next and I had much better read through.

What is the best writing advice you’ve received or could give?
Be a better plotter than I am lol. I'm a pantster and I always get stuck in the middle. I don't think there's a book I've written that I didn't start over three or four times.

Are there any other points about writing you would like to add?
It's not easy and to be successful, it takes a lot more than just writing. You have to know how to market and engage readers and more.

What is the next book coming out? Can you give me a short synopsis?
The next one coming out is Spring into Love, the third in my romantic comedy series. It follows Piper, the nerdy friend, who just got ghosted by her boyfriend. He was her first and she she got turned down for a job promotion at the same time, so she's dealing with some huge self-esteem issues. 

Unbeknownst to her, her coworker Patrick has had a crush on her, and when he finds out what's going on, he offers to help her break out of her shell. Along the way they fall in love, but there's some stumbles along the way.

That's all for today's interview. If you'd like to learn more about Lorana's books, check out her website: https://authorloranahoopes.com/

And here's a bonus for my readers, leave a comment on this post and we'll pick one reader who'll receive a copy of one of  Lorana's eBooks. She's offering a copy of In the Light of Day. It's the one that won an award.

So comment now. It can be as simple as I want to be in the giveaway. We'll chose a winner next Friday! 

Writing for Life and Keeping it Fresh: Author Interview with Lucy McConnell

Your bio says you’ve published over 90 novels. How do you keep the writing fresh and come up with new and unique plot lines?
I find inspiration for new books by living life and trying new things. I've done a lot as an adult that I never got to experience as a kid. Being open to new ideas, hobbies, and friends makes all the difference.

Have you ever considered writing in another genre?
I have written historical fiction and cookbooks. So, yes, I have enjoyed writing other genres. One day I may go back to historical fiction. I love looking into the past, into events and facts, and finding the human elements.

Do you work on more than one series at a time?
I do work on more than one series at a time. I find that it keeps writing fresh for me so I don't have to deal with writer's block or burnout.

Some of your series are done with other authors. How does that come together?
Each one happened in a completely different way. With the

McKnight Family Romances, coauthored with Anne-Marie Meyer, she approached me with the idea. I loved it right off the bat and we dove in. Anne-Marie was a breeze to write with and so on top of things. I loved working with her.

The Journals of Medical Romance Series
was a little different. Hannah Peterson is a PA. She had ideas for stories but not a lot of time. Instead of going back and forth, she would write the first draft. I would do an edit and then a follow-up edit after the book sat for a bit. The partnership was incredible. Hannah has all the medical knowledge and background and I was able to bring in the romance and writing. Together we were a crack team. She's recently added to her family and has taken a break from writing but I look forward to getting back into it with her.

The Mission: Harvest Ranch Wedding Series with Ellie Thornton was not on my radar. Ellie had written a book that included the Black Ops Tag angle. I prodded her to write more with the side characters--the BOTs guys. She agreed to do it--but only if we did it together. I LOVED the idea of these four military guys FINALLY falling in love. They're all a little older and a little crazy, which makes for some great books. We've just released "Joseph" and are working on "Pete" now.

Often when I see a book series that brings in a co-author, the main author is soon to bow out of writing  and let the new author take over? Is that the case with you?

Not at all. In each series, I'm a full participant and my co-authors are too. I only co-author with people who are as invested in the series as I am. It's been a delightful process.

I’m currently writing re-spun fairy tales for children, so I was intrigued by the Fairy Godmother Chronicles Podcast. Can you give me more details? 

The idea came from a fantasy book I wrote about a fairy godmother. It was done early on and is out of print. I identified with a fairy godmother because I take two characters, who are perfect for each other but don't know it, and throw them together in a book.

Your website has something about undercover engagement audio dramas. Can you give me some details on how this came about? Why did you choose that route? 

Audiodramas are not new, but they're an amazing medium for storytelling. It takes money to put together a production with actors, sound effects, and original music. I did crowdfunding because I believe readers will want to be a part of the process. I wasn't wrong and I think things have turned out quite well. You can listen to the finished product here: https://app.dramafy.com/#/shows/undercoverengagement

You are certainly adept at marketing. I love your Diamond Cove, FL series where you’re creating activities outside of the book. How did that come about? 

Diamond Cove is a unique experience for readers. We (the authors of the series) wanted to bring readers into the world and allow them to experience it on a whole new level. Each week we email a newsletter that tells you what's going on in The Cove--including recipes, crafts, and more. The newsletters are tied to what's happening in the books and the reader is a part of that world. There are Easter eggs to find and some hilarious happenings around The Cove. It's a really fun experience. Readers can get the first book in the series, The Secret Seven, and join our newsletter list here: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/u8jkudyjx8

What are your best marketing tips you’d suggest to other authors? 

For me, it's been sharing my love of stories and of reading, on social media and in my newsletter. I know authors who succeed with nothing more than a monthly newsletter and those who spend hours live on YouTube. I think the reason they succeed is that they pick something and do it well.

What’s the best encouragement you’ve had in your writing? 

A lot of the encouragement I get comes from readers; emails and PMs that tell me my story reached their hearts. A few years back, after losing 4 grandparents in under a year, I wrote a really sad story about a man who hired a woman to be his bride because he wanted to get married before he died--and he had cancer. It was soul-ripping and completely out of my normal happy ever after books. 

But for me, it was also healing. I decided to publish it on the hope that it would help others. I received hundreds of emails from readers who went through the pain of losing someone or who had fought cancer themself. They found strength in that story. That's encouraging to me. I get a lot of emails and letters from people who find hope in the happy stories too. That keeps me going, keeps me writing.

What is the best writing advice you’ve received or could give? 

There is an audience for every book. Write what is in your heart.

Can you give me some details on one of your current books? 

"Joseph" was recently released. Here's what the story is about. 

Bree has been dying to go undercover for the IRS and bring down someone big, but it doesn’t matter how long she stays at the office… the dates she avoids so she can work weekends … the dumpsters she climbs in… she’s overlooked for the field assignments. Every. Time.

Until Joseph Murphy came along with a shiny new campaign embezzlement investigation. He’s been called in because his buddy is the groom and Bree is asked to pose as his date for a week of wedding festivities. The problem? No one will believe these two are together.

Not when she talks about seeing him with his shirt off.
Not when she sneaks into his room in the middle of the night.
Not even when they’re caught making out in the back of the campaign managers car.

If she wasn’t so certain that she wasn’t his type, Bree might think Joseph was falling for her. After all, he’s introduced her to his son, talked about having kids, and kissed her like no man has ever kissed her before.

Could it be real? Or is this just a case of mistaken romance? 

Laugh along with these two as they uncover the dastardly deeds carefully hidden within America and Andy’s wedding. Will they solve the case and have enough time to fall in love? Or will the bad guy take more than a few million dollars?

Find out in this military romantic comedy featuring a neuro-diverse bridesmaid and a single father.

Wow! That's a lot to unpack. If you'd like to learn more about this book any of the vast number of other books, you can find the details on her Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Lucy-McConnell/e/B00GKS2ZC2/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_1

And don't forget about that FREE offer of the first book in the Diamond Cove series, The Secret Seven, by joining her newsletter. Here's the link again: 

 https://dl.bookfunnel.com/u8jkudyjx8

Read in the Genre You Write: Author Interview with Toni Shiloh

My interview today is with Toni Shiloh, who is a wife, mom, and multi-published Christian contemporary romance author. Her novel, Grace Restored, was a 2019 Holt Medallion finalist and Risking Love was a 2020 Selah Award finalist. Read on to learn more about how she writes.

What made you decide to write your first romance novel? 
I wanted to finish a story from start to finish. In creative writing classes I took in college, I never finished the stories. Just started them and I wanted to push myself. Writing romance was a no brainer for me because I love everything about love. 😉 

What is the hardest part of writing for you? 
I think the hardest part is revision process. The first draft usually comes easily to me (though I may struggle in the middle). But revising to make it better takes all of my brain power.

What does your editor remind you to do most often?
Oh, good question. I think it depends on the book, it's not something that is the same for each one.

What’s the best encouragement you’ve had in your writing?
Notes and reviews from readers who see the heart and the message I was trying to convey.

What has surprised  or frustrated you the most in writing/publishing? 
What has surprised me the most is how badly I wanted to stick with it despite early frustrations, rejections, setbacks, etc.

What do you know now about writing you wished you had known sooner?
That my craft would improve with each book. I think knowing that might have made me start writing sooner.

What is the best writing advice you’ve received or could give?
Don't give up if this is your passion! Keep reading, keep learning, and keep writing.

Are there any other points about writing you would like to add?
Read in the genre you want to write it and see what works and what doesn't then put your own spin on it.

What is the next book coming out? 
I have two collections I'm in this summer, Once Upon a Summer and Always a Wedding Planner.

If you'd like to learn more about Toni's books and writing journey, use one of these links!

Website: tonishiloh.com 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/authortonishiloh

A Writer's Journey: Author Interview with Jodi Thomas

Jodi Thomas is a bestselling author of over 50 novels and countless short story collections. Her stories travel through the past and present days of Texas and draw readers from around the world.

Her awards include five RITA’s, National Readers’ Choice Awards, Booksellers’ Best Awards, and she’s been inducted into the Romance Writers of America Hall of Fame. In addition, she has been named a Distinguished Alumni by Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, Thomas also served as Writer in Residence at West Texas A&M University in Canyon, Texas.

So, tell me how it all began.
When I began my journey as a writer, I was surprised by the fact that it’s not just sitting in front of a computer to try and think up stories. Much of it is walking or driving across the land. Or exploring. I’m like the Indiana Jones of research.

My boys tease me about my fascination with what happened at any place in the past. When they were little, they would yell from the back of the van, “Why does this car have to stop at every historical marker in the world?”

When I moved into women’s fiction I thought I’d do less research. But I’m still wandering around looking for the spark.

For me, it’s like I’m an archeologist digging for my story. Over and over the location makes my story come alive. Sometimes it’s the weather or the people or the time in history.

Once I opened a book with an oil drill bit being tossed through a window. When I mentioned it at lunch one of my friends said she didn’t think it was possible to toss it from the street.

Next morning there were several rusty old drill bits thrown from the street and not one made it to my porch. So, research. My whole family went outside and started tossing drill bits across the yard.

There have been times in my life I’ve wondered why my neighbors didn’t vote me out of the neighborhood.

I just love how stories and plots get written. You never know what you'll discover when doing research. Now let's get an update on your latest book, PICNIC IN SOMEDAY VALLEY

I'm very happy PICNIC IN SOMEDAY VALLEY is finally coming out. I wrote it while it seemed like I was locked in my house, alone for months in 2020 and the only company was my imaginary friends. 😀

I found, as the story unfolded, that I put more of a mystery and lots more action. There were times the characters wouldn't let me sleep and I wrote all night long until my people were in a safe place.

Now, the world is starting to open up a little and my friends from the book will be stepping out April 27. I may still have to wear a mask, but they'll be going wild, with bar fights, running for their lives, and of course falling in love.

If you'd like to learn more about this book or her many others, here are a couple of links.

Website: https://www.jodithomas.com/shop

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Jodi-Thomas/e/B001HCU40G/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_1

Learn Your Craft: Author Interview with Rachelle Paige Campbell

What made you decide to write that first novel and write romance stories?

I'd been a romance reader for about a decade when I finally got up the courage to write my first story. I love romance novels! The genre empowers women and inspires hope that even insurmountable odds can be overcome.

How long did it take you to write your first book?
The first book took two years to write and another three to edit and rewrite. But I was determined to see my story to completion. Once I finished that book, I had ideas for more and kept going (writing and editing is much faster now).

How did you go about finding an agent/publisher?
I won a publishing contract with Kindle Press through their Kindle Scout program for my first story. They had a very quick turnaround (about three months) but ended up closing the program.

I went on to self-publish three stories before signing a contract with The Wild Rose Press, my current publisher. I've published two novels with The Wild Rose Press and the process has taken nearly a year each time. I continue to query agents and editors if I have a project that lines up with their guidelines. I have a lot of novels I can't wait to release.

You’ve now written two series one in the north and another by the beach. Which of those would be your favorite destination to live?
I would love to live by the beach! I'm a Midwesterner and after nearly two weeks of dreary days, finally had a glimpse of sunshine today.

Did you originally plan to make these a series?
If I write a series, I typically have a plan for each book before I start the first (I'm a plotter!). Lately, I've been writing standalone novels, but I have a few stories with sequels in the works too.

What is the hardest part of writing for you?
The hardest part of writing is silencing my inner critic. The more I write and the more I learn about the craft, the harder I critique myself. I outline a story and get excited. Typically, I have a crisis of confidence halfway through the first draft and then several times through the edits.

What’s the best encouragement you’ve e had in your writing?
That comes from total strangers who tell me they really enjoy my work.

We have all experienced rejection. How have you learned to write past it?
Rejection can be really hard. In any creative field, it can seem impossible at times to separate yourself from your product. Sometimes the rejection rolls off my back. Other times, I give myself a day and then get back to work. My motto is: I can take a break, but I can't quit.

What has surprised you the most in writing/publishing?

I think it's really important to understand that one book won't make you or break you. I've seen friends go from one contract to another with no pause and others who are hustling for the next contract. The hurry-up/wait cycle doesn't end after you sign a contract and that can be frustrating.

What do you know now about writing you wished you had known sooner?

I wished I'd known how many people want to help lift up newbie writers. I didn't join any professional writing organizations until after my first contract and didn't connect with local writers until two years after that. If you are writing, find your community! Don't do it alone.

What is the best writing advice you’ve received or could give?
My best advice is to keep writing. I think of myself as a pantsing plotter. Once I started outlining my scenes, I've never had a day where "I don't know what to write." I have at least a general idea of where the story is supposed to go and can adapt as needed.

Your newest book takes place on a cruise. Why did you choose this as your storyline location?
I absolutely love cruising! Nothing beats a cruise vacation in my opinion. The ships are luxurious, the service is impeccable, and I feel so pampered on board. An Alaskan Cruise is my dream vacation and was a fun chance to research.

Can you give me a short synopsis?
Forced to share a stateroom with her ex-fiancé, Caitlyn fakes amnesia to stay on board her dream Alaskan cruise. Torn over deciding his future, Cruise Director Gregory tumbles into helping her. As they grow closer, unspoken secrets threaten to rip them apart, for good.

I definitely agree with Rachelle that cruising is a wonderful way to spend a vacation. If you can’t do an Alaskan cruise, read about one in her newest book. And enjoy the beach with her other novels. Here are some links to buy those books.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082S78G9V
https://books.apple.com/us/book/love-...
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love...

The Long Journey to Publishing: An Author Interview with Rebekah Millet

Most everyone thinks they can write a novel and Hallmark movies make it look like there’s nothing to it. What motivated you to write your first novel?

You’re so right about people making that assumption! What motivated me to write my first book, Under Southern Stars, were two characters that kept popping up in my head. When I was driving, washing dishes, snapping green beans, different scenes with them would play out. I decided to write them down and continued going until an entire story had unfolded. It took me about two years to get that first draft completely written (I also have a full-time job and family). Since I was a total novice, I spent the next few years learning all I could on the craft and how to self-edit. I also read a lot in my genre. With my newfound knowledge, I set off to fix the mistakes in my book with a major rewrite.

You’ve since written two more novels without that first one being published. What kept you motivated to keep writing? Who encouraged you along the way? 

I haven’t actually finished the next two novels in my series. My second book is close to completion, and my third novel is outlined and in the character development phase. For me, my motivation comes from my faith. Whenever I’ve had doubts about writing, God has spoken to me. Sometimes it’s been through scripture, a devotional, or an encouraging post by Melissa Tagg (a fellow Christian romance author). Most recently the Lord’s message has been for me to be patient and wait. And so I am. And while I wait, I write.

You’re a member of both RWA and ACFW. Are you active with both of their critique groups? Can you give me an example of something in particular that you’ve learned from each group that has helped you in your writing?

When I first became a member of ACFW, I participated in their Scribes email critique group. It was a wonderful experience for me as a new writer and the place where I met my critique partner and dear friend, Rachel Scott McDaniel.

Through RWA I joined Faith, Hope, and Love (their Christian sub-chapter). Faith, Hope, and Love is an extremely supportive community of writers and they also have a fabulous webinar each month. I’m really looking forward to their line-up for 2019!

Since 2016, you’ve either been a finalist or an award winner of eight writing contests. How many other contests have you entered? 

One of the first things I started doing when I began writing was entering contests. I entered any and every contest I could find. I was an amateur and in desperate need of unbiased, professional feedback. After a few years, I began making it to the finals on some contests and eventually received several wins.

How do you deal with writing rejection?

Prayer and chocolate. ;) Each rejection I’ve received has been easier to handle because I know at the end of the day that I’m writing for the Lord and He has me. I’m grateful for the doors He’s closed. And I’m also grateful for brownies.

Your website shows an agent from the Steve Laube firm is representing you. How did that come about?

I’d reached a point where I felt I was ready to switch from writing as a hobby to writing as a career. I researched traditional and independent publishing and decided traditional made the most sense for me. Since a literary agent is needed to publish traditionally, I began researching them. Extensively. Several writer-friends had attended conferences where they’d met my agent, Bob Hostetler. Everyone I spoke to about Bob had great things to say. I also followed him on social media and his weekly blog to ensure we’d be a good fit. His wittiness was very appealing. I queried him and the rest is history.

What is the best advice you’ve been given about writing or that you’ve learned that you would like to pass along?

Without a doubt, the best advice I’ve received is to write what you love. You’ll be spending a lot of time in your book worlds, so you’ll want to enjoy it.

That's all for today's interview. If you'd like to follow Rebekah's writing journey, here are some ways to do it. 

Website: www.rebekahmillet.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebekahMilletAuthor/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/rebekahmillet

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebekahmillet/

Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dMne7g