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Interview with Ann Colbert, Author of The Mantra of Lucy Watts

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Mantra of Lucy Watts?

I started reading Taber’s Medical Dictionary a few years ago for fun, not for work, and began to write commentaries about the words I found, especially as related to the incongruities and absurdities of medicine. One day, it occurred to me that I could write a novel about a female doctor, like me, who read Taber’s. That first book started the series “Doctors Who Read Tabers”. I wanted to write this second book, “The Mantra of Lucy Watts,” to show the life of a wanderer, another female doctor who reads Taber's. And while it is not as autobiographical as the first, this book reflects debates I have had with myself over selfishness and selflessness. I also tried to explore the many facets of wanderlust and the perpetual travelers who have always intrigued me.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Mantra of Lucy Watts, what would they be?

The theme song for Lucy Watts would be "Nowhere Man" by the Beatles. For the other major character, Sophie, I would pick "Come Sail Away" by Styx.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

My favorite genre is literary fiction, but depending on my mood and concentration, I like to read sci-fi by women authors. I like to write non-fiction editorials and commentaries, but when I write fiction, yes, literary fiction or women's fiction is my favorite.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

1) Scissors, Paper, Rock by Fenton Johnson 2) The Trial by Kafka 3) Too Close to the Flame by James Ingle 4) My Friends by Fredrik Backman 5) Creation Lake by Rachel Kushner.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Two scenes stand out as pleasurable. They both involve water. The first was describing the feeling of swimming in the university's Olympic-sized pool. While I wrote the scene, I could feel the buoyancy of the water and the freedom of my body. The second scenes were the moments when Lucy is sitting on her porch in Belize watching the sea. Imagining those times, I could hear the sound of waves crashing on the rocks and the unique ocean birds and rainforest animals. They are sounds I don’t hear living in a forest.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

This isn't so quirky, but when I start an idea, I print my words on a composition notebook with wide rule lines using a Pilot Extra Fine Point pen and skip every other line. As if I intend to make corrections between the lines.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

I believe I learn something from everything I do and everyone I meet.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

To think about the question "Doing good or looking good?". This is a theme that the main character struggles with, especially related to her volunteer work, and I believe many readers may think of it.

Ann Colbert is the author of the new book The Mantra of Lucy Watts

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Interview with Elle Valor, Author of Fake Wife for the Billionaire Rancher

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Fake Wife for the Billionaire Rancher?

I was born in a city and gravitated toward ranch life. I am happiest on a horse, and the ranch appeals to me greatly on a personal level. I have had horses most of my life, and they are terribly expensive to care for and house, so yeah, I conjured up a billionaire of my own. I also have a sweet tooth, so the MFC being a baker just ‘sweetened the deal’. High stakes, power-brokers, finding real love in a lie…why not?

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Fake Wife for the Billionaire Rancher, what would they be?

For GRAY: "Tennessee Whiskey" by Chris Stapleton: Smooth, rugged, unexpectedly soulful—just like Gray when he finally lets Wren past his defenses. It’s got that slow-burning, emotionally layered vibe that fits a man who’d marry for duty... then fall for real. For WREN: the sharp-tongued, off-limits best friend’s sister who’s suddenly his fake wife: "Before He Cheats" by Carrie Underwood — with a wink. Wren is fierce, independent, and not here to play second fiddle to anyone. While she’s not out to destroy his truck (yet), this song screams sass, strength, and a don’t-mess-with-me attitude. For their relationship (the fake marriage, real tension, and wild chemistry): "Shameless"* by Garth Brooks, because pretending not to fall in love was never really an option—and now neither one of them is backing down.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Not necessarily. I devour books like snacks—romance, fantasy, sci-fi, children’s stories, graphic novels, historical romance, paranormal, mystery, and anything with dragons, wolves, witches, or a plot twist that makes me yell “No way!” at 2 a.m. My TBR is a wild mix, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love writing steamy contemporary romance (bossy alpha males, billionaires, and damaged men—yes please), but I’ve got plans to dip my toes into a few other genres too. Why limit yourself when the bookshelf is this big?

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Oh, just a casual mountain of mayhem, magic, and muscle-bound heroes. I’m talking Nalini Singh (because duh), Donna Grant, Kelley Armstrong, Christine Feehan, Patricia Briggs, and Susan Stoker—my ride-or-dies for danger and desire. Then there’s Diana Gabaldon for my time-travel fix, Lynsay Sands for fanged fun, J.A. Huss when I want things dark and dirty, and Faith Hunter for gritty urban fantasy. Add Riley Edwards, Tara Stone, and Ruby Dixon (yes, I do like my aliens spicy), plus classics like Anne Rice, Christopher Paolini, and Jilly Cooper for that nostalgic (and hilarious) punch. Basically, if there’s a badass heroine, an alpha with emotional baggage, or a world I can disappear into? It’s on my pile.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Call me a romantic, but I ‘loved’ writing the wedding scene in Chapter 16. It’s the moment everything shifts—from “strictly business” to “oh no, feelings”. There's tension crackling under the surface, secrets circling like vultures, and a villain trying to stir the pot just as the couple starts to realize the fake part of their marriage is hanging on by a thread. And let’s not forget that unexpectedly heated “you may now kiss the bride” moment. Whew. Sparks flew, the crowd pretended not to notice (they totally did), and even the characters didn’t know what hit them.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I wouldn’t call myself quirky (okay, maybe just a *little*), but my German Shepherd might disagree. He’s my unofficial writing assistant positioned faithfully at (or on) my feet for the first few hours of the day, listening patiently to my muttering and plot ramblings. Then, without fail, he demands a “creative break” by nosing my arm until I take him outside to play. According to him, no chapter is complete without a fetch session. Honestly? He’s not wrong. Lucky mugs? Nope. Cats on keyboards? Not in this house. But one bossy dog and a strong cup of tea? That’s my secret sauce.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

As a cancer survivor, I’ve learned to live each day like it could be my last—LOVE big, LAUGH loud, and find magic in the everyday. Whether it’s marveling at a butterfly, dragonfly, or the world’s most determined stick insect... feeding native birds, wandering the farm, kissing a soft horse nose, or getting lost in the world of a new book—if it brings me joy, I lean all the way in. Writing is part of that joy. It’s how I celebrate life, every single day.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

I want readers to remember the shift, the tension—that heart-thudding moment when something real sneaks in where it was never supposed to exist. Love has a way of surprising us, blindsiding us, and blooming in the most unexpected places... like a staged “you may now kiss the bride” turning into something neither of them can shake.

Elle Valor is the author of the new book Fake Wife for the Billionaire Rancher

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Interview with Sarah Towns, Author of Our Own Little Bubble

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Our Own Little Bubble?

This book was born from wanting to capture the magic of a Midwest summer—those long, sticky days by the lake that feel endless and alive. I grew up with that. Then I added my favorite thing: a slow-burn, tension-filled romance hotter than the muggy air. It’s also a fish-out-of-water story—Max is a big-city guy dropped into rustic camp life. I’ve made that move myself, and I wanted to explore how a place can soften you, shift you, and maybe even show you what you didn’t know you needed.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Our Own Little Bubble, what would they be?

“Small Doses” by Bebe Rexha. I listened to it on repeat while writing certain scenes. The lyrics capture that irresistible push and pull—the addictive tension, the moments they can’t stay away even when they try.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Contemporary romance is my go-to for both reading and writing—I’m a sucker for the build-up, the tension, and that first kiss. But I also love thrillers and suspense. Some of my books mix in those darker threads, and I’m currently working on one that leans more into the romance-thriller side.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I’m currently reading Obsession Falls by Claire Kingsley—anxiously awaiting that first kiss and completely charmed by Audrey’s dog, who’s basically the perfect sidekick. Next up are Flawless by Elsie Silver and My Silver Lining by Laura Pavlov. Clearly on a slow-burn, small-town romance streak.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The paint fight—hands-down my favorite scene to write! Sadie’s furious, and what starts as an accident explodes into something messy, emotional, and completely unfiltered. A lot of buried tension surfaces… followed by an even messier (and far more satisfying) scene I won’t spoil. The inspiration came from Monkey Business (1952) with Cary Grant and Ginger Rogers. They’re acting like kids during a paint fight, and I loved that chaotic, playful release. I just wanted a grown-up version—with a lot more heat—and Max and Sadie definitely deliver.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I wish I had something quirky and charming—like a lucky mug or a cat curled on my lap—but honestly, it’s usually me stealing time between work and my kids, typing half a scene while reheating the same cup of coffee for the third time. Does emotional whiplash count as a writing habit?

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

“I think I can.” It’s from The Little Engine That Could, and I love it because if you don’t think you can… You really won’t. Belief is everything.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

The burn—that magnetic pull between two people, where every glance, every brush of skin, carries too much meaning. Where it feels fated. Inevitable. Beautiful. That’s the feeling I chase when I write, and I hope it stays with readers long after the final page.

Sarah Towns is the author of the new book Our Own Little Bubble

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Interview with Melissa F. Miller, Author of Clear Path (A Bodhi King Novel)

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Clear Path: A Bodhi King Novel?

My Bodhi King character not only solves mysteries as he travels, he also has a knack for building community and seeing people who are often overlooked. The theme of seeing (and being seen) clearly fits perfectly with Bodhi's journey.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Clear Path: A Bodhi King Novel, what would they be?

"I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" (by the Proclaimers), for Bodhi, "I Can See Clearly Now" (by Johnny Nash) for Julie, "Wildflowers" (by Maddie Poppe) for Diana, and "You Don't Have to Try So Hard" (by Cobie Caillat) for Rory.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I read widely across genres, which is probably why I write in multiple genres!

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I'm finishing up Great Big Beautiful Life on audio, The Summer Guests in ebook, and Long Bright River in print right now.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Oh, that's tough. Probably the scene where we first meet Rory while she's documenting the demolition.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

So many! Here are a few: I have a different playlist and a different scented candle for each series character, as well as two mugs depending on how motivated I am—one says "feeling a little brilliant right now" and the other says "this book isn't going to write itself."

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

“In a time of destruction, create something: a poem, a parade, a community, a school, a vow, a moral principle; one peaceful moment.” — Maxine Hong Kingston

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

Bodhi, as always, sees things as they truly are, and by seeing what is clearly, we can recognize what's good and the beautiful in each other and in our flawed and scarred world.

Melissa F. Miller is the author of the new book Clear Path: A Bodhi King Novel

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Interview with K.M. Scott, Author of The Cult

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Cult?

I’ve always been interested in cults, and I’d been reading up on Jim Jones and Charles Manson. In one of the books, the NXIVM group was mentioned, so I began researching that. It was from what I learned about that cult that I got the idea for The Cult.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Although I write fiction, I read a lot of nonfiction in my spare time. That probably comes from my years teaching history.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I've been learning to speak Italian, so all the books on my TBR pile at the moment relate to my getting better at reading the language.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

There's a scene in The Cult that includes the male main character, Nash, and lets the reader know how he came to be part of The Golden Light. It explains a great deal about him and shows Nash's humanity.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I guess the only quirky writing habit I have is that I have to write in my office. I never take my laptop to a cafe or even on vacation because I can't write unless I'm at my desk in my office.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

I try to live with gratitude every day. It's not always easy, but I find it helps me keep things in perspective.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

I'd like readers to remember how selfless Nash turned out to be.

K.M. Scott is the author of the new book The Cult

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Interview with Amy Rose Novoa, Author of The Shadows Between Us

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Shadows Between Us?

It started as a joke with my daughter, imagining a real-life relationship drama playing out like a Lifetime movie. But that playful moment sparked a deeper idea: what happens when someone realizes their entire relationship is built on lies? Kirbey’s journey grew from that spark. She’s not based on one person, but she’s rooted in real emotions—fear, resilience, and the fight to reclaim control.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Shadows Between Us, what would they be?

Look What You Made Me Do by Taylor Swift for Kirbey representing her feelings of broken trust and betrayal. Demons by Imagine Dragons for Ryan - this captures his guilt and inner struggles.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I’ve always been drawn to psychological thrillers and domestic suspense. There’s something about peeling back the layers of a seemingly normal life to reveal the darkness underneath that completely captivates me. I love stories where nothing is as it seems—where a single secret can unravel everything. That’s also what I love to write. With The Shadows Between Us, I wanted to create a story that felt intimate and personal, yet carried the weight of suspense and emotional twists.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I recently finished The Housemaid Is Watching by Freida McFadden, and I couldn’t put it down. Her pacing and twists are just so sharp. Next up is The Last Mrs. Parrish by Liv Constantine and Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris—both have been sitting on my list far too long, and I’m ready for those jaw-dropping turns and emotional mind games. But truthfully? The book I’m spending the most time with right now is the sequel to The Shadows Between Us. I’m deep in the writing process, chasing down twists and building on the emotional aftermath of book one. If all goes well, it’ll be out by mid-summer—and I can’t wait to share what’s waiting in the shadows next.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Describing the areas in San Francisco and Alameda in several scenes where my favorite. I grew up in Alameda and later lived in San Francisco, and those settings have always felt like more than just backdrops. They’re layered with memories for me—of foggy mornings, long walks near the water, and the bittersweet pull of both safety and change. We may outgrow the places we come from, but they never really leave us.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

Oh, definitely. For starters, I talk through scenes out loud—sometimes while pacing, sometimes while cooking, and often while cornering my partner Rex with, “Okay, just listen to this and tell me if it sounds crazy…” He’s a good sport about being my unofficial sounding board. I always have either strong coffee or a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc nearby (depending on the mood and time of day), and my four dogs have a habit of curling up near my desk like they’re guarding the story as it comes out. I write best when I can look out and get lost in the blue sky and flowers, or go for a walk on the beach—it’s where everything seems to untangle. My process isn’t always tidy, but it’s mine. A little chaotic, a little coastal, and very much fueled by love, caffeine, and conversation.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Yes—“When you can’t see the path, take the next brave step anyway.” It’s something I’ve had to remind myself through different seasons of life—parenthood, heartbreak, reinvention, and now writing. You don’t always need to know exactly where you’re going. You just have to keep moving forward, especially when it’s hard. That’s a thread that runs through my characters, too. They don’t have all the answers, but they find the strength to keep going, to trust that the truth will come, and to fight for the life they deserve. That’s the kind of resilience I believe in—messy, imperfect, and real.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

Writing The Shadows Between Us wasn’t just about crafting twists or suspense—it was about exploring what it feels like to wake up inside a life that no longer feels like yours. I’ve lived through seasons where I second-guessed everything, where survival looked like smiling on the outside and falling apart inside. What I want readers to remember is that trusting your gut, asking hard questions, and walking away from what doesn’t serve you isn’t weakness—it’s courage.

Amy Novoa is the author of the new book The Shadows Between Us

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