Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve written 35 books to date: sports romance, romantic comedy, romantic suspense, and blends of all three, set in New Zealand, Australia, various spots in the western US, and New York City. Basically, everyplace I’ve lived and/or know anything about. I’m probably best known for my New Zealand series, though, especially the rugby romance. I love writing romance and how much real life you can include in there, how big a tent the romance genre covers.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My new release (September 1) is JUST ONE LOOK, Escape to New Zealand Book 14. Yes, it’s a standalone! I’ve written retired athletes, coaches, and, of course, athletes who are playing, but I’d never written the gut-wrenching feeling of a top professional sportsman whose time in the game is running out. So there was that, and also that I thought a brain surgeon and a rugby player would be a funny combination. Which, it turns out, they are.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
The most unusual thing about my writing is that unlike every other author I know, I don’t have ideas. I’ve had 35 book ideas, and I’ve written all 35. I finish one book, then wait for the new book to start its tentative arrival. On the other hand, I’ve also finished every book I’ve ever started.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I always think that romance can be either of the Charlotte Bronte, Heathcliff running despairingly over the moors variety, or Jane Austen, with Elizabeth being witty in the drawing room. I’m a Jane Austen gal all the way. I like humor and realism and wit and emotion that feels genuine. I also love Georgette Heyer and, among contemporary romance writers, Susan Elizabeth Phillips. I was probably most inspired as a writer, though, by reading Beverly Cleary’s autobiographies (which are awesome). That’s the kind of writer I try to be, too: funny, but real. Dear Mr. Henshaw—what a good book.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on a new story in the New Zealand Ever After series—I think. The idea is just starting to percolate.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I actually haven’t ever promoted much, other than putting a Book 1 up for free for a few days every month. I was lucky enough not to need to do much for a long time, but the market is definitely more competitive now. I’ve recently started working with Aurora Publicity, though. I guess my method is, “Find somebody else to do it for you.”
Do you have any advice for new authors?
To go ahead and write. What’s the worst that could happen if you give it a shot? And to try not to compare. We all have our unique gifts, and as Theodore Roosevelt said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.”
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Something my son wrote in half an hour in fifth grade for a competition. It’s called, “I Can Succeed in Sixth Grade.” Part of it goes like this: “Most people succeed because they try. If you don’t try, you will never get anywhere in life. It’s not only trying, it’s seeing if you are capable of the things you must do. You must believe in yourself and have courage. Most people succeed not because they are destined to, it’s because they are determined to. They are devoted to their work.” I still have that on my office wall
What are you reading now?
I read a lot of nonfiction and some thrillers. I just finished reading a book about newborn photography! Research for the new book. It was fascinating.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I honestly don’t know. I write all kinds of settings and all kinds of tones and moods, from real-deal romantic suspense to romantic comedy to more of a romance/popular fiction mashup. I have to go with the idea that shows up, whatever series that’s in! I lead a very unplanned writing life.
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?
Nancy Mitford, The Pursuit of Love and Love in a Cold Climate. Jane Austen, Persuasion or Pride and Prejudice, can’t decide. Eva Ibbotson, A Countess Below Stairs.
Author Websites and Profiles
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