Interview With Author JoAnna Illingworth
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hi, I’m JoAnna Illingworth, indie author from Nashville! I write funny, swoony love stories, heavy on the happy ending. I have three books currently available – an adult rom-com and a YA time travel romance duology.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Don’t You Want Me is a Music City rom-com about two competing artists who end up on tour together. I have worked in the Nashville music industry for over twenty years and drew from own experience to develop the story.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
All of my books started from the first line. At the start of a book, I think in sentences more than plot structure. Those first lines don’t always make it into the final book, but are a great place to start!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I write voicey, funny characters and am always blown away by the voicey, funny characters from Casey McQuiston and Rainbow Rowell. I also admire the amazing storytelling from Jeff Zentner.
What are you working on now?
I’m deep in edits on my fourth book, coming this spring. It’s a southern comedy about small town pageant girls and it’s very fun!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Social media is the best place to connect with readers. It’s always shifting, but right now TikTok and Instagram are the hot spots.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t give up! There are so many outside (and inside) voices giving you every reason in the world to give up. Believe in yourself and your book. If you don’t believe in your story, no one else will either.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Write the first draft just for you. Let it be terrible. You can fix it later.
What are you reading now?
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
What’s next for you as a writer?
Releasing my YA southern comedy this spring and then writing Book 2 in my Music City rom-com series.
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?
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
In The Wild Light by Jeff Zentner
Carry on by Rainbow Rowell
Author Websites and Profiles
JoAnna Illingworth Amazon Profile
JoAnna Illingworth’s Social Media Links
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