Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a romantic at heart with a love for classic films and fine chocolate – white is my favorite. I love writing romantic suspense. My writing career started with writing short stories. I sold my first short story, The Wedding, to Today’s BlackWoman magazine. I’ll never forget when the editor called and told me they picked up the story for the September 2001 issue. I was floored. I headed to Chapters bookstore and bought all the magazines in the store.
I’ve written five books to date: two short story collections (The Wedding and Other Short Romantic Stories and The Invitation and Other Short Stories) and three romantic suspense novels (Hide ‘N Seek, Cat ‘N Mouse and Hit ‘N Run).
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Hit ‘N Run. It’s the third book in my romantic suspense series. Sydney’s best friend is involved in a hit and run. She set out to find the truth with Carlos, but they get more than they bargain for.
In the first book of the series, Hide ‘N Seek, Sydney and Carlos were secondary characters. I’d hinted at a romance between the two, but wasn’t sure if I’d wanted to pursue it. I got a few emails from readers wanting Sydney to find a love of her own and I thought, why not Carlos. Hit ‘N Run was born.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I can’t start a book or a short story without a title. Nine times out of ten, the title I initially choose I stick with. I may have the story idea but my fingers don’t hit the keyboard until I have a title. Is that an unusual writing habit?
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I like Cindy Gerard’s writing style, and enjoyed her Bodyguard series. I also like A Memoir of the Craft On Writing by Stephen King. The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck is another gem I keep on my bookshelf.
What are you working on now?
The book I’m working on now is called On The Wild Side. Sparks fly when a city girl falls for a caretaker at a cabin in the country. It’s a contemporary romance, which will be released on February 14, 2014.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Social media is a big part of it. I use Facebook quite a bit, my website and other sponsorship platforms. My family is really great. My mom sells a lot of my books. She has sold my books to the ladies at the post office, the card shop and even at the bank. I can’t ask for a better marketing person.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write and read. You have to keep writing to hone your skills. I read somewhere you should read everything. I don’t agree with that. Read what you enjoy. If you don’t enjoy what you’re reading you won’t learn from it. When I’m not writing, I read. I love romantic suspense. When I’m not reading romantic suspense, I enjoy biographies. I’m fascinated by people’s life story. I also love legal suspense. Another piece of advice I would give to other writers…Go for it! Don’t get discouraged. I think you have to write because you love it.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve read is by John W. Campbell, a science fiction writer, who said, “The reason 99% of all stories written are not bought by editors is very simple. Editors never buy manuscripts that are left on the closet shelf at home.”
What are you reading now?
Born to Win by Muriel James and Dorothy Jongeward.
What’s next for you as a writer?
A new romantic suspense five-book series. I’m in the early stage of developing the character sketch and storyline for each book.
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?
It’s hard to choose. The Bible, The Color of Love by Sandra Kitt, Reap the Wind by Iris Johansen and To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. Born to Win will be packed as I may want to read it again.
Author Websites and Profiles
Yvonne Harriott Website
Yvonne Harriott Amazon Profile
Yvonne Harriott’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Hi Yvonne, That first call is the best, isn’t it? Bless your mom. She’s the best person to have in your corner. I like the books you’d bring with you to an island, so I guess I’d like your books. I have to put them on my TBR for Jan. December is a lost cause for reading. Keep on writing!