Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Born and raised in South Carolina, I hold a master’s degree in personnel services from Clemson University and am a member of Romance Writers of America and Alpha Delta Kappa, an international honorary society for women educators. I’ve been married for forty-five years to my college sweetheart. We have two sons who’ve given us three wonderful grandchildren. We also have a sweet calico kitty, and a devoted little black and white dog.
I’ve been writing since 2001 when my son asked me to proofread a book he’d written. I figured if he could write a book, so could I. My first published novel, A New Leaf, was the winner of the 2003 Timeless Love contest. If I wasn’t sold on writing before, that did it. I’ve been writing ever since and don’t have any plans to stop. Frankly, I don’t think I could even if I wanted to. Writing is a strange compulsion that drives me to spend long hours in front of a keyboard when I could be doing important things like napping or eating chocolate. My house isn’t dusted as often, I rarely cook, and who cares if the laundry gets done or not. Yeah, no doubt about it, I’m addicted. At present I’ve had 20 books accepted for publication.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is titled Turnaround Farm. It was inspired by my love of horses, determined, ambitious heroines, and hot heroes.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Maybe. I keep a bendy straw by my computer. If I get stuck playing with it helps me think the problem through.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
There are too many to count. My mother was a reader, and she taught both my sister and myself to love books. I’ve been reading since I learned how to read.
What are you working on now?
I just finished a book tentatively called Suds-N-Duds. I think I have revision to do, though. My heroine isn’t behaving as she should.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve tried many different methods, but I suppose word of mouth is the best advertising of all.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t give up. Believe in yourself and enjoy the writing experience.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write what you love and write for the love of writing.
What are you reading now?
Wedding Cake Crumble by Jenn McKinlay
What’s next for you as a writer?
Revision of the book I just finished. This is going to take a while.
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?
That’s like asking which of my children I’d like to bring. Sorry, but I just can’t pick.
Author Websites and Profiles
Elaine Cantrell Website
Elaine Cantrell Amazon Profile
Elaine Cantrell’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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