Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
An Amazon best-selling author and a National Readers’ Choice Award winner, I’m the author of more than two dozen novels, novellas and short stories. My first full-length book, The Officer’s Girl, was released by Harlequin American Romance in 2010. I went on to write seven more books for Harlequin, including the highly acclaimed Glades County Cowboys series, before I started writing the more complex, heart-warming and emotional stories that have resonated with my readers. I lives on Central Florida’s East Coast where I write women’s fiction and contemporary romance with a dash of Southern sass. To learn more about me, visit mywebsite at www.leighduncan.com.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Butterfly Kisses is the first book in The Orange Blossom series.
My niece, Genna, was the inspiration for Butterfly Kisses, and the book is dedicated to her. Genna has battled kidney disease since her teens. She’s one of the bravest young women I know. About a year ago, a woman walked through my dream one night. I didn’t know much about her–just that she was tall and blonde…and incredibly sad. It took a little while to figure out her story, but the result is an emotional, heart-warming story of a woman who’ll do anything to save her daughter’s life.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
A few years ago, when I was facing a serious deadline and things at home weren’t exactly quiet, I started writing at the library with another writer. We made rules–no internet, no cell phone and no lunch until we’d each written 1,000 words. It worked! Now, there are 4 of us who get together several times a week for Writers’ Camp.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve always loved reading! When I was in grade school, I’d go to the school library in the morning, check out a book which I’d hide inside my text books during the day, then check that book back in and get another one to read that night. I love Stephen King’s storytelling, Debbie Macomber’s characters, Kristen Painter’s world building, and Roxanne St. Claire’s strong emotions.
What are you working on now?
My current project is Broken Road, the third book in The Orange Blossom series. Penny Kirk comes home to Orange Blossom to take over her father’s bookstore…and finally deal with the event that changed her life ten years ago.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I probably don’t do nearly enough promotion, but I do work really hard to make every book the absolute best it can be.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Learn the craft. Don’t be afraid to edit. Most good writing is in the re-writing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Early on in my writing career, friends suggested that I join Romance Writers of America. Through this organization, I’ve learned more about the craft and business of writing than I thought possible, and received the encouragement and assistance I needed.
What are you reading now?
Right now, I’m writing, so I’m not reading much.
What’s next for you as a writer?
More stories in The Orange Blossom 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?
My Bible, first of all. Then, two or three of the thickest, most emotional women’s fiction novels I can lay my hands on.
Author Websites and Profiles
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