Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I consider myself a rolling stone as I have lived in Canada, the United States and the Caribbean and have also spent time in Europe and Latin America. Because of this, my books have been set in quite diverse locales.
I am the author of 50+ books, most of them romance novels, although I have also written literary fiction and non-fiction works. My first love, though, is the romance genre.
In my free time (when I can find it) I love to read (of course!) and escape from the cold of Canada to the warm climes where I can sit on the beach andwatch the tide roll in. If only I could do that more often!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest romance novel is ‘In Bed with the Enemy’ which is a celebration of the independent woman. Unlike most popular romances,many of which are ‘billionaire romances’, the billionaire featured in this story is a woman. I was inspired to write this story as a ‘counter balance’ to the overwhelming focus on the man as the ‘person of power’ in the relationship. As far as I’m concerned, now it’s time for us women to show what we’ve got – Woman Power.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I am often up at 4 or 5 a.m. so I can get a few hours of writing under my belt before my son (and the sun, too) is up.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve been inspired by prolific writers including Melody Anne and Ruth Cardello, who also write in the romance genre.
What are you working on now?
I’m presently working on the outline/ plot plan for another in my ‘Billionaire Bachelorettes’ series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Websites that have been effective for me are:
eReader News Today
Bookbub
Freebooksy
However, it is important to bear in mind that things change very fast in today’s world so it is important to watch the trends as each website evolves.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
1. Try to write in a series so that readers can follow characters and families. This seems to appeal to avid readers. It also allows you to use the first book in the series as a promotional tool (give the first book away for free, and encourage readers to try the following books in the series). Critical, though – make book one really great, and hook the readers into the characters and their world.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best marketing tool is a really good book. Make your story the best you can make it.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently re-reading a book on writers’ craft, one that stimulates my creativity – ‘Writing the Breakout Novel’ by Donald Maas
What’s next for you as a writer?
I hope to explore the genre of ‘Historical Romance’. It’s a genre I enjoy reading, but one which I haven’t tried. Now may be the right 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?
– a survival guide
– a blank book with lots of leaves so I could write (about my experiences on the island, explore story ideas, etc)
– an inspirational or movitvational book, to keep me focused on making the most of my situation (e.g. books my Brian Tracy, Tony Robbins, Les Brown, etc.)
Author Websites and Profiles
Judy Angelo Website