What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Protected By The Grumpy Ogre?
Protected by the Grumpy Ogre started with a very specific “what if?”: What if a woman’s life was wrecked by something she didn’t do—something invasive, and terrifying like a deepfake—and the only place she could breathe again was in the most old-school romantic setup imaginable: a remote cabin with a growly protector who swears he won’t touch her?
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Protected By The Grumpy Ogre, what would they be?
For Rona, it’s: “Bad Reputation” — Joan Jett & the Blackhearts.
For Darhg it’s: “I Won’t Back Down” — Tom Petty
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
These days, I read a lot of rom-coms and cozy fantasies.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Lucy Score, everything about Lucy Score these days! Right now I’m reading Story of My Life.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
It’s definitely the scene where Rona pushes Darhg just a little too far right after the first night they spend in the cabin together.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I am a mood writer, so I light up a little candle, put on some ambient music, and get my favorite drink before sitting down to write. There’s also always multiple dogs sleeping in my office, plus the occasional judgmental cat. The cat usually steals the dog’s bed.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
I guess it would be to do what makes you happiest!
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
That romance stories are at the heart of human civilization. We’re wired to read them, spread them, and live them!
Mary Auclair is the author of the new book Protected By The Grumpy Ogre
Connect with Mary Auclair
Author Site
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