Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a first generation American. My parents are both Panamanian. I was born on Fort Bragg Army Base, but have lived in Houston since I was six months old. I’m a mom, a Texans fan, and lover of all things literary and happy hour related; in that order. Men & Women Can’t Be Friends is my debut novel and I’m currently hard at work on my second.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Men & Women Can’t Be Friends came from just that, men and women trying to be friends. Between my own experiences and those of my friends, the exchange between men and women trying to navigate their libidos and and their need to make a connection was just too funny not to poke fun at.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I can write almost anywhere. My focus is almost scary. I can, literally, tune everything out. I also like to listen to music while I write. I try to match the music I’m listening to with the tone of the chapter I’m writing.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I like to read novels in the genre that I’m trying to write. To Kill A Mockingbird is one of my favorites; so is A Tale of Two Cities. I like to read indie books more than anything else. Low by Mary Elizabeth was really good. The Bachelorette Party by Karen McCullah Lutz was really good too.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on a three book, Snow White retelling series. I’m about a month from being done with the first book.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Goodreads is really good to gain followers and get people interested in my books.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
If you can spend the money on hiring an editor before submitting your manuscripts, do so. Editing is what gets a book from good to great.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Baby steps, baby girl. Baby steps.” My mom still says that to me to this day.
What are you reading now?
Cinder by Marissa Meyers. Every blog I’ve seen says this series is the top fairy tale retelling. It’s always interesting to see how other authors will take such a familiar story and turn it on its head. It’s what I’m aiming at with my new book.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m hoping to have the first book in my new series out by early December with the second going on pre-order the same time.
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?
Dan Brown’s Angels and Demons and The DaVinci code and/or all the Harry Potter books. They were so entertaining. I feel like I’ll need some entertainment on a deserted island.
Author Websites and Profiles
Elle Kelly Website
Elle Kelly Amazon Profile
Elle Kelly’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
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