Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
You might say I know my way around a dictionary. But then again, you might not want to say that. I’ve been writing for more years than I care to admit. I started writing professional with a small, national mail order publishing company ghostwriting their natural health books and writing direct marketing advertising.
Finally, I took the leap to fulltime freelance writer and have been writing ebooks, articles and web content. I only recently started writing fiction for my clients, about a half-dozen romance novellas and novels, several cozy mysteries and a number of short stories.
I am a published author under another name with Simon and Schuster with a paranormal romantic comedy. I’ve also self-published a two-part novel The Billionaire’s Treasure and The Billionaire’s Secret.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
A Fierce Kind of Love is my latest. It’s a more light-hearted look at the shape-shifter paranormals. I’m a lover of comedy, so that’s where my mind naturally goes
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really. But, when I’m stuck for words, I turn to old-fashioned pen and paper. These days that’s probably unusual in itself.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
When I was in college, I read several Gore Vidal historical novels (Yup! I’m that old!) and was hooked on his unconventional interpretations of some historical figures. I also love Janet Evanovich and her Stephanie Plum series. My goal is to make characters as outrageous and indiviual as those in her books.
My favorite
What are you working on now?
Right now, I’m working on another lion shifter book. It’s a romance and it centers around the fracking controversy. It’s a different combination of events rolled all into one book and it even boggles my mind. It involves the brother of the main character of A Fierce Kind of Love. It’s going to be a bit longer than the first book. And they can be read separately.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
To be honest, I haven’t found a website that serves me well. But I have a friend who has used Bookbub and has had great success. I haven’t tried it yet – but it’s on my list to use.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Whether you sign with a traditional publisher or self-publish, learn everything you can about marketing. The more you can control your own marketing efforts the better you will be.
Authors, even aspiring writers, should join all the writing groups they can — from professional groups to local groups. You’ll find these people will be your most effective publicists.
If you have the time, volunteer to judge contests. Again, this is a marvelous way to connect with other writers.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t give up. Whether you’re pursuing a book contract or publicizing your book, never give up. Don’t let anyone stomp on your dream.
What are you reading now?
I’m reading every Jessica Bird novel I can get my hands on. My favorite is Heart of Gold, followed by An Irresistible Bachelor. You may know her as J.R. Ward who wrote the Black Dagger series.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m excited about finishing a second lion shifter book. It’s almost halfway completed. I;m also working on a cozy mystery that is partially completed. And after that I have my eyes set on an alternate history novel, in which we bring the United State to the brink of civil war in the 1960s when JFK didn’t get assassinated — and Oswald continues to follow him to ensure his murder.
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?
One of them would have to be a survival guide of some sort. Then, a blank journal (can I bring some pens too?), any book by
Gore Vidal and any book by Jessica Bird.
Author Websites and Profiles
Tia St. Terese Amazon Profile