Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I started writing just over a year ago, and I’m pleased…and a little proud, to have written and published five full-length novels. For me it’s an accomplishment because I’m also managing the demands of a corporate career and the task of raising two young daughters.
I live in Ontario, Canada where I’m the CEO of a government firm by day. I put my vivid imagination to work during my ‘free time’ to create characters that both men and women enjoy reading about.
Another manuscript is in the works.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
‘Loans Lust and Lies’ is a departure from my contemporary erotica writing. With this novel, I wanted to weave in suspense, plot twists, and a surprise ending that NO ONE sees coming. Don’t worry, there is still plenty of steamy content to enjoy.
This erotica mystery was inspired by a text conversation with a friend and fan. He knew I’d just finished writing ‘Every Second Weekend’ and he wondered what I planned to tackle next. I had just typed THE END and really hadn’t thought ahead to my next novel. We chatted back and forth for a moment and before I knew it, I’d thrown out the idea for a suspense novel involving embezzlement, deception, forensic accounting, computer hacking, and a love triangle involving the investigator and two key suspects. As a joke, I quickly added a comment suggesting a surprise ending that no one would suspect. As I re-read my own message I realized how much fun I would have telling the story in a way to support the ending, without giving it away. Within a ten minute text conversation, I had the entire outline of my novel. I began writing it immediately and finished it twenty-one days later.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m busy. I don’t have time to sit for hours at a laptop and write the thoughts that are in my head. Sometimes a phrase or scene comes into my mind in the middle of the day when I’m in a meeting and I have to capture it immediately. On many occasions, I’ve typed out a conversation or narrative on my iPhone, just to capture the essence of my thought before it’s gone.
With a busy schedule and on-site meetings around the province, I spend far too much time in the car. I’ve made use of this idle time to dictate entire chapters using the ‘talk-to-text’ function on my phone.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve always been a fan of Tom Clancy’s writing. I know it’s in a completely different genre, but I find his books filled with so much detail that supports the story. Writing ‘Loans Lust and Lies’ as a mystery was my stepping stone to writing more detailed yet enthralling novels like Clancy’s.
I also love Dr. Seuss. I can’t explain that one.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
No question, it’s Twitter. I have found that fans really enjoy the opportunity to engage with me as they’re reading. I’m happy to answer questions about what inspired dialogue and events or to answer questions about characters and plot ideas. It’s a rush to know that fans are actively reading and curious to know more about what made that book come together.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
So many people ask me how to make the leap from writer to author. I am constantly amazed at how many writers have completed manuscripts that they edit and edit and rewrite and edit again. If you want your work published, you’re going to have to take the leap and submit it to some publishers. While you wait for a response…start writing a new book.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I’ll let you know when I hear it.
What are you reading now?
I’m reading a few different novels by a number of indie authors. I’m pleased with the quality of writing by most.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Another manuscript is always in the works. I’m challenging myself to write three full-length novels a year.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
If it’s okay with you, I’d rather be left with my imagination, a pad of paper, and a pen.
Author Websites and Profiles
Cara Addison Website
Cara Addison Amazon Profile
Cara Addison Author Profile on Smashwords
Cara Addison’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account