Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a CSU Dominguez Hills graduate with a BA in English Literature. Books are my life. When I’m not reading or writing, I watch movies or do crosswords. I’ve two books under my name. . . for now.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Belleza and the Brute. I know that there is an abundance of books out there that were inspired by Beauty and the Beast, but I’ve always been a big believer that if you haven’t seen the story you’re thinking of on a bookshelf, you better start writing it. It was my homage to my own childhood and how fairytales influenced my love of books, especially the romance genre.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t know if it’s unusual, but if I’m blocked, I go to any bookstore and just walk through the books. I feel like they give me the power to think about my next move. Okay, maybe it is strange.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Jane Austen (of course), Lori Brighton, Sabrina Jeffries, Julia Quinn, Sarah MacLean, and Lisa Kleypas.
What are you working on now?
I have two WIP’s. One is a historical romance set in the Regency Era. That one might take me a while to finish since I will be taken out of my comfort zone and want to be as historically accurate as possible. The other is a contemporary romance in the friends-turned-lovers trope. Still working it out, but I’ve always followed the “just write till you finish” rule.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Instagram which is then connected with Facebook and Twitter. I’m pretty awful at keeping up with social media, so I try to have everything in one spot.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just write. You’re doing it for you, for the enjoyment of writing. The amazing reviews, authors, and readers that you meet along the way are extra perks to becoming an author, but in the end if you’re not enjoying it, you’re doing something wrong.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Julia Quinn- “Finish the book. The world is full of first chapters.”
What are you reading now?
Currently paging through A Duke in Shining Armor by Loretta Chase. Loving it!
What’s next for you as a writer?
Hopefully I will be traveling to Dublin, Ireland for my first author signing. I’d like to finish my third book before then.
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?
Twas the Night After Christmas by Sabrina Jeffries – a Christmas book is always a must for a cheery mood.
To Seduce an Earl by Lori Brighton- this is the beginning of an amazing historical series. MUST READ!
Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake by Sarah MacLean- LOVED and I mean LOVED this book so much I have two copies.
Romancing Mr. Bridgerton by Julia Quinn- Ugh this series is the best. The absolute best. Every time I re-read it, I can’t help but envy how close this family is.
Author Websites and Profiles
Jane Matisse Website
Jane Matisse Amazon Profile
Jane Matisse’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account