Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I grew up wanting to write! From an early age, my mother would find me tucked away somewhere telling stories to myself. A Solitary Romance is my debut romance novel and the first in my Only Love Series. A Lone Star Romance will be released soon and my third book, A Calculated Romance, is almost complete. I write clean romances that will still make a reader’s pulse race.
I’m married with two young children and a dog. I enjoy the arts, vintage costume jewelry, and travel.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
A Solitary Romance is my first book and the start of the Only Love Series. Out of college, I began a career in the fast-paced business world of Los Angeles. I draw on my professional experiences as well as my time spent working at a major auction house when penning my novels. I love the arts, jewelry, and travel, all of which influence my writing.
My early career and love of jewelry inspired A Solitary Romance. Some of the events in the book are true, while I’ve taken creative license with others. I based the relationship between Katrina and Kiki on the real-life friendship between myself and a close friend that’s lasted almost 30 years. The dressing room scene with the red dress actually took place!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I would write 24 hours a day, if possible. A small event will spark my imagination and I’m off, penning the story line by the seat of my pants. At some point, I do outline the remainder of the novel, just to make sure I stay on track. I like to print out a hard copy of my book to review for rewrites.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love the Brontës, Jane Austin, and Dickens. I enjoy the contemporary author, Carlos Ruiz Zafón.
What are you working on now?
I am currently penning book three in the Only Love Series, the story of Katrina’s brother James and Ireland Lincoln. Also, I am making my editor’s changes to A Lone Star Romance which will be released soon.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I still haven’t found that unicorn! I usually employ various websites and social media platforms when promoting my books.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t rush to publish and be sure you have several sets of eyes reviewing your work. After rewrites, I employ two computer programs to check for spelling and grammar mistakes before I send my work off to a real, live editor.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
It’s hard to pick just one piece of advice. “Everything looks better in the morning,” and “Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7),” come to mind.
What are you reading now?
Currently, I am reading The Austrian by Ellie Midwood, Horse Soldiers (non-fiction) by Doug Stanton, and The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I have another romance bouncing around in my head, the story of Peg who is introduced in A Lone Star Romance.
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?
The Bible (for spiritual insights and inspiration), Coming Out of the Ice: An Unexpected Life by Victor Herman (an incredible true story of the survival of an American in the Stalin-era Soviet prison system and one of my favorite non-fiction books), Wuthering Heights (for its wonderful characters and dark drama), and The Pickwick Papers by Dickens(for its humor).
Author Websites and Profiles
Violet Sparks Website
Violet Sparks Amazon Profile
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