What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?
I wanted to write romance, but not fantasy. I wanted to write about the messy part. I wanted something deeper than that. I wanted to write about human nature: secrets, lies, betrayals, consequences of wrong choices, and trusting the wrong people. The Morning After series—I liked the idea of what happens after a one-night stand. What could possibly bring two people back together when the night before was supposed to last for a moment, not a lifetime? That’s where The Morning After Las Vegas was born.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of your book, what would they be?
How about Sheryl Crow’s “My Favorite Mistake”? I know I’m dating myself here, but Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff” and “Love to Love You Baby” can work too.
What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I love suspense—it can be romantic, it can be a psychological thriller, it can have steamy sex scenes or not. I love twists, turns, and betrayal.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Right now, everything by Freida McFadden. (Dear Debbie and The Housemaid—I didn’t see that ending coming.)
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
Undoubtedly, my favorite scene had to be John and Nadine’s date at the Rise Festival (it’s based on a date I had—I don’t care if the world knows it either).
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I have a secret message in every newsletter to T.S. (I can’t tell you who he is—but you can guess.)
Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?
I was having a really bad day, and I read this, and it helped me to remember everything I had overcome. I am not what they left behind. I am what I chose to rise from. They didn’t break me—they built the fire I write with now. I write for the women who’ve been abandoned, underestimated, used, abused—and got back up anyway. I am not afraid to stand alone. I am not afraid to take the lead.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
One choice can change everything. We all make decisions in moments of loneliness, anger, fear, or desperation without knowing where they’ll lead us. Sometimes we trust the person we shouldn’t, and sometimes the person we never expect to come through becomes the one who changes everything—in the best possible way. The morning after isn’t always about regret—it’s about what we choose to do next.
