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

Venice and human behaviour are the main inspirations for my book. People from one country might find the behaviour of another amusing, irritating or attractive. The Venetians were certainly endearing with their philosophies and their musical language devoid of the letter 'l'. When asking for a gondola, the echo would be 'gondoa' which tourists would find both puzzling and amusing. As I could not express the musicality, I found a different kind of sonority, music itself: Vivaldi relives and is joined by the haunting notes of jazz, mingling past sounds with present ones. When walking through Venice one feels its history pulsating with the flow of the canal, it seems to speak to you with each step you take through its intricate alleyways... its splendid piazzas and the breathtaking palazzi. As I wrote the Venetian Mystery, the characters seemed to beckon me and come to life awaiting to tell their stories themselves, involving me with the diversity of their tales. There were the rich, and the not so rich, fighting to be heard. I portrayed them as they presented themselves and gave them all a voice.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Venetian Mystery, what would they be?

For Hamlet I would pick the "Misa Criolla (Creole Mass)" with Andean instruments, composed by Ariel Ramirez and sung by Jose Carreras. For Lu I'd pick "Queen of the Night" by Mozart, interpreted by Meryl Streep, in which she portrays a singer who couldn't sing in the film Florence Foster Jenkins. As said above, Vivaldi and Jazz permeates throughout the narrative while Viola fantasizes about singing the Blues for Vivaldi, observing his reactions at the novelty.

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

Elena Ferrante's The Neapolitan Quartet, comprising 'My Brilliant Friend,', and serialized on SBS in Italian; also 'Dear Life', a compendium of short stories by the Noble Prize winner Alice Munro.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

The above. I am an avid reader of French and English classics, modern fiction, thrillers and anything to do with new information such as theoretical science.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The finale in which all protagonists gather for a concert where Hamlet conducts a Teutonic piece. I enjoyed describing the hustle and bustle of an important gathering, feelings, gossip, gowns, above all music.

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

Observing behaviour and mannerism of common people, taking notes, jotting down ideas in the dark - when they come.

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

Do no harm.

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

That life is amusing - most of the time.

 

Wilma Pressich is the author of the new book The Venetian Mystery

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Queen of the Underworld (The Occult Book 2)?

When I was recovering from surgery 10 years ago, I started working on the first book in a young adult fantasy series, called The Reign of the Occult. I wrote it on and off for six years, until Covid, when I finally finished it. The sequel, The Queen of the Underworld, I've written much quicker.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Queen of the Underworld (The Occult Book 2), what would they be?

"Wake Me Up" by Avicii.

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

I read a bit of everything (aside from horror). Fantasy is definitely among my favorites.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

'Book of Night' by Holly Black.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The climax! Nobody so far has guessed the ending.

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

I tend to write out of order. I write the scenes I like first and then fill in the rest. It's probably not the most efficient way of doing things, but it does help form the book.

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

You can do it!

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

I want them to be invested in the story and its characters, like I am for my favorites. When readers start creating their own content based off my books I'll know I've made it.

 

Lauren Louise Hazel is the author of the new book The Queen of the Underworld (The Occult Book 2)

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write If You Want Me (The Toronto Terror Series)?

I’ve been writing hockey romance for more than a decade and I wanted to create a team set in my home province, so The Toronto Terror series was born. If You Want Me, the second standalone in the series is a dad’s best friend (so deliciously angsty), age gap, friends to lovers romance. Peggy Aurora Hammerstein, the goalie’s daughter has grown up in the hockey world. She’s only ever had one hard and fast rule: Never date a hockey player. Especially not her dad’s teammate and best friend, Hollis Hendrix, who she’s had a secret crush on for years.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of If You Want Me (The Toronto Terror Series), what would they be?

"Holy Smokes" by Bohnes would be the theme song for Hollis and Aurora’s story.

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

I love reading everything from contemporary romance, to new adult to fantasy and paranormal. It really depends on my mood!

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

'Onyx Storm' by Rebecca Yarros (but I have some months to look forward to that, and graphic audio to relisten to in the meantime), 'Quicksilver' by Callie Hart, and I’m excited to start an ARC of 'The Boyfriend Goal' by Lauren Blakely.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

So many! But those opening chapters when Hollis finds something that definitely belongs to Aurora and should NOT be in his penthouse, let alone on his nightstand was so much fun. So was the first kiss when they finally break and give in to the longing.

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

My cat routinely makes himself comfortable on my laptop, and I can’t work without music in the background. I often have a playlist for each book and listen to it on repeat (which ruin albums and artists for my husband).

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

There’s always an up after a down.

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

The Badass Babe Brigade; Aurora’s girl squad. I loved writing those friendships. We all need people in our lives who have our backs no matter what.

 

Helena Hunting is the author of the new book If You Want Me (The Toronto Terror Series)

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Merged Series (Boxset Volume One)?

The story behind my Merged Series began with a haunting dream - a vision of a mysterious machine in a dimly lit building, designed to test the very essence of humanity. A man, convinced of his own humanity, stepped forward, only to have the alarms blare to life on the other side. This eerie scene sparked a cascade of questions in my mind: What if our sense of self was just an illusion? How could someone be so disconnected from their own humanity? And what kind of world would need such a machine to distinguish between human and... something else? In this world, the human realm and the realm of myth have merged, forcing ordinary individuals to become extraordinary heroes if they hope to save it. Joshua, a human leader, and others like him must navigate this treacherous new landscape, confronting their own biases and prejudices to prevent an inter-species war that could destroy everything. With the theft of the Book of Secrets, the stakes are higher than ever, and the fate of the merged world hangs in the balance. This series explores the gray areas between human and non-human, the power of trust and redemption, and the ultimate quest for survival in a world where the lines between enemy and ally are constantly blurred.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Merged Series (Boxset Volume One), what would they be?

For Joshua, I would choose "Fighter" by Christina Aguilera. This song resonates with Joshua's journey as he faces his own demons, learns to trust others, and fights to protect the world he loves. The lyrics "I'm a fighter, I'm a warrior" reflect his growth from a troubled past to a strong and determined leader.

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

Ah, my favorite genre to read is definitely romance! I adore getting swept away by a beautiful love story, and I'm a sucker for a happy ending. However, as a writer, my passion lies in crafting fantasy and sci-fi worlds, with romance as a subtle yet essential thread woven throughout the narrative. While my stories may not be traditional romances, I believe that the emotional connections and relationships between characters are what make the world-building and plot come alive. So, while my favorite genre to read is romance, my favorite genre to write is fantasy and sci-fi with a romantic twist!

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Haha, my TBR pile is a never-ending mountain of wonder! With hundreds of books waiting to be devoured, my reading choices are entirely mood-based. Right now, I'm in the mood for some lighthearted fantasy romance, so Stella Rainbow's 'Healing Holiday' is calling my name. I'm also excited to dive into Jaime Samms' 'Father Crow's Best', as I adored the previous books in the series with their sentient houses and fur babies that helped the couples find love. And, of course, a few more sci-fi adventures and romance novels are always lurking in the wings, waiting to sweep me off my feet!

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scene to write in Book of Secrets, the first book in the Merged Series, was a heart-wrenching confrontation between two characters that completely upended my expectations. The tension was palpable, and the emotions raw and real. I loved crafting the dialogue, the body language, and the reveal of a long-hidden truth, which added a layer of complexity to the story. The scene's themes of trust, loyalty, and power struggles resonated deeply with me, and I'm thrilled with how it turned out. Writing this scene was like being in the room with the characters, feeling their emotions and sensing the danger lurking beneath the surface.

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

Yes, I have a quirky writing habit that helps me navigate tricky plot decisions.  When I'm stuck at a plot crossroads, I turn to my trusty dice for a nudge in one direction or the other. The roll helps me break through the indecision and keep writing, even if it's just a temporary solution. I don't worry too much about making the 'right' choice, because I know that during editing, I can always reassess and adjust the path to better suit the story. The dice simply provide a fun and unpredictable way to get me unstuck and keep the creative juices flowing!

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

I have two family mottos that inspire me in both writing and life: 'It is what it is' and 'It could always be worse.' The first reminds me to accept things as they are, without resistance or frustration. The second encourages me to find the silver lining, even in challenging situations.

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

If I could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading Merged, it would be the power of trust and redemption. I hope readers take away the idea that even in a world filled with darkness and uncertainty, the ability to trust others and ourselves can lead to extraordinary transformations.

 

Claudia Blood is the author of the new book The Merged Series (Boxset Volume One)

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Sunday Morning Shrapnel (Scriven of Soho Book 2)?

I read a popular fantasy novel a few years back in which everything revolved around money; every success, every plot point was seen through the lens of money. I was so offended by this concept that I wanted to write something which used similar motifs but to a better aim. And thus the Scriven of Soho was born; an individual who says all he wants to do is get his payday, but whose actions (hopefully) speak to a man who is honorable, honest and humorous with it. That, by the time he does get his payday, it is so disconnected from the primary goal as to be an afterthought. Hopefully.

As for Lily's plot in Sunday Morning Shrapnel, I have to point to the failed Frankenstein pilot from a couple of years back (2004). It has a terrible Rotten Tomatoes score, but I love this version of Shelley's seminal work.

The title comes from a contemporary Irish saying - on the morning after the night before of heavy drinking, your wallet is empty of notes but your pocket is full of coins - nickels and dimes - the shrapnel from buy all those rounds. I felt it was appropriate for a character who primarily deals in coppers

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Sunday Morning Shrapnel (Scriven of Soho Book 2), what would they be?

A song you've likely (and unfortunately) never heard of called "Swallow" by a now defunct Irish band called Skindive would be the theme of Scriven of Soho. Scoring the rest of the book, I would have Kenny Roger's "the Gambler", and Kansas' "Carry On My Wayward Son".

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

Ahh, welcome to the pompous ass ranted answer - To read; genre doesn't matter to me; the story does. Especially SF - and to a slightly lesser extent, fantasy - they require another genre to be complete. SF/Fantasy tend toward settings, while the other genres tend toward plot. I would like to write in SF setting, but at the moment, almost all of my open projects are set in fantastical worlds.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

A lot of TTRP books - Vaesen, DIE, the DUNE RPG, Wretched Epoch - good RP books are made to inspire. For novels, Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells and a few of the Ciaphas Cain audiobooks when dare to grant myself a writing break.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite types of scenes to write are the revelation scenes; the "this is what's been happening all along" moments. It's in those moments when you get to give the reader a peek behind the curtain. Hopefully, you've done a good enough job in layering the facts and innuendo, that some of the reader's questions are answered and more are created. If you've done a good enough job, the mystery is maintained, the pressure valve is opened just a bit, and the reader's own interpretation of the narrative grows.

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

None that I know of...

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

I tend to read lists of "writing rules" and then break as many as possible. While there will be one or two, here and there, which tend towards the universal, the vast, vast, VAST majority of them are specific to that writer's style and can be ignored.

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

That there's a hell of a lot of self-publishing authors out there producing fantastic work. Keep supporting us and we'll keep producing.

 

A.R. McNevin is the author of the new book Sunday Morning Shrapnel (Scriven of Soho Book 2)

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Bird in the Cage?

Since I started my IP investigations and protection blog in 2016, I have come to learn more and more about the Chinese government’s wide-reaching program to steal trade secrets from the United States and other Western democracies. I also discovered that one method they use is to coerce ethnic Chinese individuals living in the West into stealing on their behalf. A few years ago, I listened to an interview with Senator Mark Warner, where he explained that visiting Chinese students are often pressured by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to commit acts of espionage. If they refuse, their families back home could be at risk. This realization deeply impacted me and inspired me to write 'Bird in the Cage,' a novel that explores the high-stakes world of IP theft, espionage, and the moral complexities faced by those coerced into such actions. Through my story, I aim to shed light on these critical issues and bring awareness to the pervasive threats posed by international espionage.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Bird in the Cage, what would they be?

"Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor.

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

I have enjoyed reading a wide variety of genres over the past 30 years, from the literary depths of 'Crime and Punishment' by Dostoevsky to the gripping narratives of 'Lush Life' by Richard Price. I've also immersed myself in the works of John Irving and the thrilling spy novels by David Silva. While I find both literary and commercial fiction captivating, crime, mystery, and spy novels hold a special place in my heart. The complexity of the characters, the intricacy of the plots, and the high-stakes tension in these genres keep me engaged as a reader and inspired as a writer. Writing in the crime and spy genres allows me to blend my passion for intricate storytelling with the thrilling elements that make these books so compelling. My latest novel, 'Bird in the Cage,' is a testament to this, weaving a narrative that combines elements of espionage, murder, and cutting-edge technology. So, yes, my favorite genres to read are indeed the same as my favorite genres to write.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

'The Coming Wave' by Mustafa Suleyman. 'New Cold Wars' by David Sanger. 'The Wager' by David Grann. 'The Books of Jacob' by Olgo Tokarczuk. 'The Power Broker' by Robert Caro. 'The Code Breaker' by Walter Issacson. 'The Paladin' by David Ignatius.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scene to write was the Tai Chi scene. In this moment, a Chinese-American investigator on the IP Crime Strike Force demonstrates Tai Chi for her colleagues. This scene is a beautiful blend of cultural heritage and physical discipline, highlighting the character's unique background and the intricate skills she brings to the team. It's a moment of calm and focus amidst the high-stakes tension of the story, providing a deeper insight into her character and a touch of elegance to the narrative.

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

I stand as I write. My wife bought me a desk that converts from sitting to standing, and I prefer to stand. I can easily write for three to four hours standing before I need to sit down for a few minutes and then stand again. Standing allows me to step away and pace as I listen for what to write next. It’s my understanding that Hemingway did a lot of his writing standing as well.

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

“Let me tell you a story.”

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

If I could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading "Bird in the Cage," it would be the importance of vigilance and resilience in the face of covert threats. The novel underscores how critical it is to protect our intellectual property and maintain our integrity, especially when facing sophisticated adversaries like the Chinese intelligence services. I hope readers come away with a heightened awareness of the real-world implications of espionage and the courage of those who work tirelessly to safeguard our nation's secrets.

 

Ronald Jay Alvarez is the author of the new book Bird in the Cage

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Aour Legacy - Mind over Caste (Aour Legacy Series Book 1)?

After starting my company in 2020, I saw the incredible potential in every person I met. Everyone just needed to find their own personal magic. This idea of limitless potential became my passion. That's how the Aour Legacy series began. I’ve always loved reading and watching fantasy stories, so combining these passions into a book series felt natural. The world of Aour is like ours, mostly ordinary, but a few magi discover the magic within themselves by believing in their own power.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Aour Legacy - Mind over Caste (Aour Legacy Series Book 1), what would they be?

For Clara, I’d pick “La Vie en Rose” by Édith Piaf. This classic French song captures her happy nature and love for the little joys in life, like traveling and eating an éclair au chocolat. Despite her reserved demeanor and the tragedy she faces, the song's optimistic tone reflects her journey to self-love, growth, and the impact she wants to leave.

For Gabriel, “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor fits perfectly. This song embodies his ambition, drive for excellence, and the determination to achieve greatness. Its powerful and motivating energy mirrors his calculated approach to life and his ability to inspire and lead others toward shared success.

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

My favorite genre to read has always been fantasy. I’m fascinated by different myths and legends, and I love the thrill of mystery and suspense. This passion naturally extends to my writing. Crafting fantasy worlds filled with intrigue and excitement is incredibly fulfilling. While I enjoy a touch of romance, I decided to keep it out of my first book in the series. Who knows, maybe it will find its way into the story later on (no spoilers.)

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Right now, my TBR pile includes a few books from some incredible indie authors I’ve had the pleasure of meeting in real life. I'm also excited to read "Ninth House" by Leigh Bardugo for its gripping mystery. And I can't wait to dive into Brandon Sanderson's fantasy world, starting with "Mistborn."

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I enjoyed writing most scenes in my book, and I still get excited whenever I read them back. My favorite scene to write was the incident halfway through the book. I can’t say much without giving away spoilers, but capturing the scene from both characters’ perspectives was an incredibly thrilling writing experience. I also loved crafting the descriptive scenes of Legatum Academy, especially during the international Veiled Tourney at the end of the year. Those moments really brought the world to life for me.

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

I do have a quirky writing habit: I can only write comfortably if I have a beautiful view. Most of the book was written on the rooftop of my coworking space in Paris. It overlooks the city’s most iconic places and fuels my energy. Even when I’m traveling, I always try to find a spot with a view. If there’s a stunning vista nearby, that’s where you’ll find me, typing away!

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

Absolutely! The motto that guides both my company and the story in my book is: "Living to reach our full potential." I believe we have unlimited potential, and the only limits are the ones we set in our minds. The beauty of life lies in pushing through each day, believing in ourselves, and striving to reach that potential.

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

If there's one thing I'd love readers to remember after reading my book, it's the essence of the story: that they have magic within them waiting to be unlocked. This magic isn't given; it's earned through belief and perseverance. May they always find the courage to believe in themselves and their magic.

 

J. B. Spring (my pen name) is the author of the new book Aour Legacy - Mind over Caste (Aour Legacy Series Book 1)

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Violet Blooming?

This book is part of a spin-off series from my first series, about musicians falling in love. This particular book revolves around Violet Newman, an opera singer and classical recording artist who’s about to star in the lead role in the opera La Traviata, as well as release a new album. When her ex-boyfriend unexpectedly comes back into her life, she goes on fake dates with Owen Matthews, the conductor of the orchestra for the opera show. Those dates were only meant to keep her ex away, but the passion between her and Owen ends up going far beyond dating. I wrote this book partly as a big “f you” to racist stereotypes (Violet is part Hispanic), like I wrote its predecessor, Dawn Rising, to fight ableist stereotypes, but much of the inspiration comes from my own experiences as a musician. The vast majority of the feedback I’ve received from other musicians on my flute-playing ability has been supportive, but one particular musician in a military band in my country was very rude to me. He ranted on about how he had a university degree in music while I didn’t, and made wrong assumptions about me not being able to handle a busy performing schedule. When I tried to correct him, he talked over me. I modelled Violet’s ex on this particular musician, and Owen on a band conductor I strongly admire.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Violet Blooming, what would they be?

They would obviously be the songs from La Traviata, for both Violet and Owen. After all, their story is like an opera – they fall in love, with a few dramas along the way, but have a much happier ending than most operas. Also, the song “Cinema Paradiso”, which she records for her latest album. It’s a song I really love.

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

Of course it’s contemporary romance, especially if it contains a high level of spice! That’s the type of romance I write. I also love romantic suspense and some erotic stories.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

It’s a huge backlog at the moment! Most of my TBR list is erotic romances by E. A. DeBoest, whom I discovered on social media. I’ve read her books 'His Escort' and 'Her Dirty Desires' and I’m keen to try more! I also want to read Vianne Max’s 'Pariah'. It’s the sequel to her first book, 'Anahera', which I enjoyed very much.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Spoiler alert! It’s definitely the showdown between Violet’s ex and Owen towards the end of the book. I don’t want to give away too much, so I’m only going to say, it gets nasty!

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

Sometimes I have a cat on my lap when I’m writing, but listening to music, whether it be rock, pop or jazz (especially Michael Bublé) while I write, is a tradition of mine.

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

Believe in yourself, no matter what others say. I’ve struggled with imposter syndrome my entire life due to naysayers making cruel assumptions about me and disapproving of every decision I made for myself, so believing in myself is harder for me than it would be for other people. Also, the classic Walt Disney quote: “If you can dream it, you can do it.”

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

If I can’t choose the hot passion between Violet and Owen, it would be the social justice themes, especially what Violet’s ex did to make her break up with him in the first place. I have these themes in my previous books too, because I believe victims of bullying, discrimination, etc. have the right to be heard and taken seriously. It seems too often that victims get blamed and gaslit, even when there’s plenty of hard evidence against the perpetrator. I hope anyone who has been through this will feel heard when they read my books.

 

Mari Jack is the author of the new book Violet Blooming

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Impossible Love (Yosemite Ranch Book 1)?

Gracie Owens (two bestselling author friends) have always dreamed of cowriting the kind of books we love to read. So, we did! Meet the MacLaine brothers of Yosemite Ranch… Small-town contemporary romances with characters we absolutely love—hot, Alpha, ex-Navy SEAL heroes and the beautiful and intriguing women who show them what love’s all about.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Impossible Love (Yosemite Ranch Book 1), what would they be?

Cal MacLaine—"911" by Teddy Swims.

Victoria Backlund—"Short Skirt/Long Jacket" by Cake.

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

We really do read everything. Mystery, suspense, fantasy, historical fiction, non-fiction. But at the end of the day, it’s contemporary romance all the way!

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

We can’t tell you that, because we’re currently buried under floor- to-ceiling TBR books and can’t see any titles. Send help.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Well….probably Cal and Victoria’s flamethrower of a first love scene, which takes place in the penthouse suite of San Francisco’s Fairmont Hotel. Let’s just say that lots of rooms equals lots of options.

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

Gracie No. 1 surrounds herself in lucky organizational binders and inspirational “to-do” bulletin boards and stays energized by the gorgeous view from her office.

Gracie No. 2 proudly displays her collection of mugs, notepads, and sticky notes featuring her favorite four-letter word(s). She sometimes writes while wearing her lucky Santa Fe cowboy hat.

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

Every woman deserves an alpha hero.

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

There’s a whole lot more where that came from!

 

Gracie Owens is the author of the new book Impossible Love (Yosemite Ranch Book 1)

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What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Bound by Desire (Born in Blood Book 1)?

I knew I wanted to write a longer book for this one so I worked hard to do that. I was inspired by Beauty and the Beast with this one. A young woman and a dangerous man. I wanted the book to be seductive and dark.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Bound by Desire (Born in Blood Book 1), what would they be?

For the main characters, Sofiya, the song "Blue Bannisters", by Lana Del Rey, really fits. Sofiya is close to her sisters and seeks comfort with them during this trying time in her life. Even though this book is a romance between Sofiya and Mikhail, it’s also a familial love story between three sisters. As for Mikhail, the song "Salvatore" by Lana Del Rey really fits. Even though Mikhail is Russian and not Italian, the song still fits him. This story of a woman in a foreign land, trying to survive, fits well with this book.

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

I truly love all genres but I have a penchant for thrillers. Something edge of the seat is always fun. But I do love a good Mafia romance, which is what lead me to writing them.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I have so many! The current book I just started is 'A Fate Inked in Blood' by Danielle L. Jensen.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

My favorite scene was the first time Sofiya and Mikhail speak to each other. It’s dark and sexy and I loved it!

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

For me, to write, I have to exercise first. If I don’t start my day off with exercise, I feel completely wrong and it can impact my writing.

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

My motto is to keep going. ‘Just keep swimming,’ if you will. I’ve dealt with anxiety my entire life so sometimes I have take things day by day.

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

One thing I would want people to remember after reading my book it’s that love can come in unexpected places. Also, for women, never lose your agency. Trust your feelings and do what feels right for you, even if it’s unconventional.

 

Ivy Davis is the author of the new book Bound by Desire (Born in Blood Book 1)

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