Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have traveled the world as a buyer for one of the world’s top coffee companies. After taking an early retirement, I decided to return to my first love, and began writing short erotic fiction. I currently live in London (above a notorious sex shop!) I’ve now dedicated myself to writing novels with passion, adventure, and sex so kinky it could make even the Queen of England blush. I have written seven books so far. They are all part of a series called Savage Shifters. The first book in the series, Sex Beast, was just released in December. And the second title, Sex Twins, will be released in early 2018.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Sex Beast was inspired by my love of sex and adventure! I’m a fan of the TV series Survivor. And I thought, “What if I took that to the next level? What if survival for my heroine included sexual submission?” I’m also a fan of Paranormal Romance. So I wanted to add my spin on the Shapeshifter sub-genre.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I drink lots of coffee to keep me going. I also listen to instrumental jazz music when I write. I love a good saxophone solo. I type my final manuscript on my laptop, but my early drafts are always handwritten. I love the feel of paper. I’m very tactile. Using pen and paper helps me tap into my sensual side. And I always celebrate the completion of a book with a shot of Grand Marnier!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love the books of Jackie Collins. She creates such fun characters. D.H. Lawrence is also a big influence. I must read Lady Chatterley’s Lover at least once a year. I’m also inspired by the careers of prolific writers such as Nora Roberts and Danielle Steel. They must have an incredible work ethic. And I love any author who can make me laugh.
What are you working on now?
Now that I’ve finished my Savage Shifters series, I’m working on a new series called The Books of Rapture. It’s about a Catholic nun who defies the church and helps heretics escape torture during the Medieval Inquisition. It takes place in France during the time of Joan of Arc. It is filled with sex, submission, and a testosterone-fueled band of shapeshifting Illuminati!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m a visual person. I like sharing my book covers. I say you CAN judge a book by its cover. So I like my covers to pop. I also think reviews are important, from both professional reviewers and everyday readers. In fact, positive feedback from your readers is probably the best promotion. The thoughts and feelings of my readers mean the most to me. Amazon and Goodreads seem to be the most popular place for reader reviews right now.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice is to focus on your main character. Don’t go off on long tangents that take away from your main story. Stay in the heart and mind of your hero or heroine. And create challenging conflicts and a nasty villain. Books are boring without a big villain!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t wait for inspiration. Make writing a habit. When you start to write, inspiration will arrive.
What are you reading now?
About ten different books at once! I make a point to read a variety of genres. I’m a big fan of Thrillers and Mysteries. But I make a point of reading the classics. I’m reading Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood right now (for the fourth time.) And just finished Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol (I make a point to read it every year during the holidays.) I’m also reading Goodbye, Janette by Harold Robbins again. It’s the book that first got me into the BDSM genre. It’s probably mild by today’s standards. But Harold Robbins really knew how to weave in some kinky sex into his stories.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’d like to try some other paranormal elements in my future books. I love shapeshifters (they’re so inherently sexy.) But there’s other creatures out there I could use. Maybe a demon? And I want to turn the tables on my use of BDSM with the men getting tied up for a change!
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?
Anna Karenina
Exit To Eden
Gone With The Wind
Wide Sargasso Sea
Author Websites and Profiles
Janelle Oberlin Amazon Profile
Janelle Oberlin’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile