Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a novelist, screenwriter, freelance blogger, and writer. I started creating stories as a kid and never stopped. I wrote two romcom novels, Making A Difference (M.A.D.) and A Change Would Do You Good. I also penned two romance writing guides, How to Write an Amazing Romance and Writing the Ultimate Non-Tragic Romance. The first takes the romance writer from the beginning to end – from platform to finding an idea, from creating engaging conflicts to deciding on your publishing journey. The second one focuses on happy romances, and how/why a writer might want to write one.
I’m absolutely a summer person, though I do love visiting Norway any time of the year. I’ve traveled a lot, and I love visiting new places and attempting to speak the language. I speak Turkish and English. I also know a bit of Italian and Norwegian. I’m a total rock music fan – especially 80s and 90s glam metal is my jam. (Hey, writers are supposed to be weird!) I love movies and TV series, and I definitely watch more Netflix than I should.
Despite being tone-deaf, I might fake being a good dancer (until busted by actual dancers) and I love karaoke.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
A Change Would Do You Good. When I was 15, I spent a month in Santa Barbara, California. I absolutely fell in love with everything about the town, met a lot of interesting people, and witnessed some great parties. (I didn’t drink, don’t worry!:)) My mind is always on the lookout for great stories and characters. The first characters that came to me were the protagonists, fashion designer Janie and pro surfer Kevin. Then one by one, their colorful and sometimes wild neighbors found me. It was a blast to write. (No character has been inspired by real people, though.)
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My writing space tends to get really messy when I’m working at home, so I frequently run to my favorite coffee shops. I’m like a turtle, always carrying my laptop and related stuff with me. My favorite days are when I write like crazy, meet friends and go out to dance on the same day. (Yes, this is a writing day before the pandemic, and I’m hoping to get back to it as soon as it is over.)
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve watched a lot of movies and read a ton of books. I don’t know if or how much they influenced me, but I love reading John Grisham, Sophie Kinsella, Lee Child, Katie Fforde and Jenny Colgan.
What are you working on now?
Currently? Getting the word out there about my romcom novel A Change Would Do You Good. But I have four romantic comedy or drama ideas to choose from for my next novel.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ll let you know when I figure it out.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Anxiety, self-doubt, and rejection are going to bother you, but you can make it despite them.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Just keep putting your work out there.
What are you reading now?
The River of No Return by Bee Ridgway.
What’s next for you as a writer?
My next novel, I think. But I also work as a freelance non-fiction writer. I’ve been featured on publications like CNN and The Washington Post, and I need to get pitching. 🙂
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?
John Grisham, The Partner.
Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice.
Sophie Kinsella, Can You Keep a Secret?
Highland Fling, Katie Fforde.
Author Websites and Profiles
Pinar Tarhan Website
Pinar Tarhan Amazon Profile
Pinar Tarhan’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account
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