Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
To date I have written five full length novels and three novellas. All but one are historical fiction. I went down the rabbit hole of contemporary romance when I wrote On the Trail of Love, about a girl who inherits a mechanical bull business. My first two early historicals, A Secret Hope, set in ancient Ireland, and The Fury of Dragons, set in Roman Britain, were both inspired by St. Patrick’s early writings.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Test of Gold is Book 1 in the Hearts of Gold trilogy. It is set during the Gilded Age in New York City. Think Downton Abbey, but in turn-of-the-century New York. The true story of Consuelo Vanderbilt inspired my story. She was the original “Dollar Princess,” one of many young heiresses with multi-million dollar dowries who married cash-poor British aristocrats. Money exchanged for a royal title!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I like to listen to period appropriate music while writing. I also daydream about which actors and actresses could play the part of my characters.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Anya Seton, James Clavell, Diane Gabaldon, Francine Rivers, and Larry McMurtry, to name a few.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on the second book in the Hearts of Gold trilogy, called Threads of Gold. I have an unusual main male character in this story, with an unusual birthmark. That’s all I’ll say!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I stay active on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also try to drive traffic to my website.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t give up! And take the long view. I started writing in 2004, and this is my first traditionally published novel. And most important, learn the craft and constantly try to improve.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Jodi Picoult’s quote: “You can always edit a bad page. You can’t edit a blank page.”
What are you reading now?
The Earl’s Lady Geologist by Alissa Baxter.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I have ideas for a Western trails series and a sequel to my first two early historicals, A Secret Hope and The Fury of Dragons.
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?
I’m not sure I could survive with only four books! But I would take Shogun, Katharine, Memoirs of a Geisha, and Lonesome Dove, for sure.
Author Websites and Profiles
Renee Yancy Website
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