Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have been writing for many years but just published my first novel June 2017. I have a novella series I am working on finishing that I am planning to release next as well as a spin off of my first novel, “A World Without You.” I lose myself in writing and love creating characters that are both romantic and still seem real.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“A World Without You” was inspired by my fatigue seeing, and reading similar plots about rich, good looking men who turn out to be romantic heroes. Many times I thought to myself, “if I met this person in real life I probably wouldn’t even like him.” However, he is hailed a hero simply because he is rich, despite all his other flaws. So I decided to write a story involving a twisted love triangle in which the two men competing for the heroine are opposites. One is a rich, handsome actor, and the other is a “regular” guy that had an amazing heart. The book is told in two perspectives. Ella is the young girl trying to reconcile her painful past, and Logan is the young man who wants to win her heart. The third character, Dylan comes between them. It’s a battle of good and evil so to speak.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
When I write I get into a zone. Once I sat down and wrote for four hours straight without noticing how much time had passed. Sometimes I wake up in the morning and, lying in bed I imagine conversations between my characters (usually dramatic ones). I love reading stories where I can feel the characters and I want my readers to feel their pain, frustration, or love.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Jamie McGuire, a successful indie author. Colleen Hoover who just keeps changing it up and keeping things interesting. Tarryn Fisher who writes daring things that are different. Christina Lauren write amazingly witty lovable romance. Karen Robards writes amazing romantic suspense. K.A. Tucker writes the kind of love stories I like with interesting characters I want to meet in real life (IRL). Kristan Higgins writes the kind of romantic comedy that I can’t live without. There are so many. I’m a bookaholic.
What are you working on now?
A novella series featuring a couple going through three stages of new adulthood. It follows the couple from 18-25 and the challenges their relationship faces at each stage. Graduating high school, college, and then as young adults navigating budding careers and tragic life events.
I’ve named it the “Breaking series.”
It’s an opposites attract romance. Laurel is an introverted but intelligent girl who loves reading and playing both piano and guitar. Chris is a charismatic, outgoing, athlete. Their differences create obstacles in their relationship along the way.
Breaking Rules, Breaking Promises, and Breaking Hearts
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
For now, I rely on social media. I am just entering the world of promotions so I am trying out many outlets to see what I can do on a small budget. As an indie, and a new author I am learning about how to get my book out there to as many interested readers as possible.
Working on a website and newsletter as well. Planning on posting the first book in my novella series on Instafreebie when it’s ready.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Make sure you have a well edited book before you release. Try to find someone to help you navigate the process the first time around. Try not to be afraid, although this is a challenge. I’m lucky to have gotten support from friends, far and wide, and family during this process. It’s a scary, challenging adventure but I don’t regret one minute of the journey.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I just posted this quote on my author page:
“Writing isn’t about making money, getting famous, getting laid, or making friends. In the end, it’s about enriching the lives of those who will read your work, and enriching your own life as well. It’s about getting up, getting well, and getting over. Getting happy, okay? Getting happy.”
– Stephen King
What are you reading now?
“Atheists Who Kneel and Pray” by Tarryn Fisher. It’s a heartbreaking but amazing romance.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Keep working. Keep writing. Since I released my book I’ve received great feedback and it’s validated my feeling that this is my calling. I need to write. I will continue to write no matter what happens with my career. It’s my creative outlet and my happy place.
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?
“Shiver” Karen Robards
“My One and Only” Kristan Higgins
“What Alice Forgot” Liane Moriarty
“The First Husband” Laura Dave
But I would like to take my ipad or Kindle. I wouldn’t want to live with just four.
Author Websites and Profiles
Christina Augustine Amazon Profile
Christina Augustine’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile