Author Interview: Tanith Davenport

Today we welcome the talented and multi-published author Tanith Davenport to the blog. Tanith writes in the erotic romance genre and has several books published by Totally Bound Publishing.

What genre do you write in? Any specific reason why you chose the genre?

I write erotic romance. It was a genre I fell into - my debut novel dealt with the nature of sexuality and so involved multiple erotic scenes, and I discovered through this that I apparently write sex very well!

Where do you get the ideas for your books? How do you go from idea to outline?

I draw ideas from all sorts of places - I'm always having to email or text myself because an idea has come to me at an inconvenient time. These get written down and left until I'm ready to pick them up, which will probably be when I have several small ideas that will work well together so that I can form an outline from them.

Are you a plotter or a pantser? Why?

I'm mostly a plotter, although I'm always open to new ideas as I write.

If you are a plotter, how thoroughly do you outline the plot?

I like to know where I'm going, but I don't outline too tightly - I find the story will often develop as it goes so there always needs to be room for manoeuvre. The characters have a tendency to tell their own stories, I find, and often things which were briefly mentioned early on will turn out to have vital importance later.

If you have to choose only one element (setting/ character development/ structure/ conflict/ etc.) that is absolutely essential to every novel you’ve written, what would it be? Why?

I'm probably in the minority on this, but for me it would be setting. I like to set my novels in distinctive places every time, so they're memorable for the reader and more fun for me to write.

How much time do you spend on getting to know your characters before you start the first draft? Why?

I don't go into too much detail straight away - what is important to me is a strong sense of who a character is as a person, and that can often be sketched quite broadly. The little details often come out of the story. That said, when I wrote about fraternal twin sisters, I did spend more time on them so that I could establish their similarities and differences.

What is the single most important thing a writer must do before he/she starts writing the first draft? Why?

For me, it's having a plot - even if it's only general, or if it changes (as mine frequently do). If I don't have some idea of where I'm going, I'll wander around all over the landscape.

Do you only self-edit or hire a professional editor? Why?

I self-edit. In part this is because I know there will be more editing to come after acceptance, but also because I used to be an editor on a regional magazine myself so I have a certain degree of confidence in my editing skills. I leave the draft alone for a few days so I can view it objectively.

How many drafts do you write before submitting to publishers?

Generally two, although longer pieces have been known to have three drafts. I do a lot of fiddling as I write, so it's usually enough to write a first draft and then go over it one more time.

Do you submit to multiple publishers at the same time or stick to one?

Unless I'm submitting for a particular submissions call, everything I write goes to Totally Bound first. They were the first to accept me and so far have proven to be a great publisher, so they definitely have my loyalty.

If you have to give one sentence advice to a novice writer, what would it be?

Finish the book.

Could you please give us a list of your published books and a short blurb about each one? Please state the publisher and year published as well.

The Hand He Dealt - Totally Bound June 2011

Astra Scott likes to live life to the full. A sorority girl and Gaming Management student, she spends her days studying and practising guitar, and her nights partying or working at the Fountain Casino, where she has an internship as part of her final semester. The only blot on her landscape is Ash Drake, her best friend Sasha's boyfriend. Arrogant, physical and blond, Ash has never forgiven Astra for her rejection months earlier and enjoys annoying her at every turn.

But when Astra's boyfriend Harry reveals a shocking secret, Astra responds in the only way she can think of: by finding a way to take on a more attractive, masculine role in the relationship. Her experimentation with sex toys finds a surprising outlet in Sasha, but when Ash discovers their secret and wants to get involved, Astra finds herself torn between dislike and desire…and as their undercover relationship grows, Astra finds herself falling in love, a path she feels can only end in heartbreak. For Ash may be the only man whose own fantasies are a match for hers, but can she knowingly steal his affections from her best friend?

I Heard Your Voice - Totally Bound December 2012

Tamar Steele’s life was never supposed to be like this. A sensitive working with a team of paranormal investigators, she is trapped in a loveless relationship with the team’s medium, Reed James, who believes that having sex on haunted ground enhances paranormal activity. Tamar maintains their partnership for the sake of the crew, forcing herself to ignore the burgeoning sexual tension between her and fellow investigator Jason Bray.

Until one night when, alone and bored, Tamar sings to herself and is knocked to the ground by an invisible force. Somehow she is able to invoke spirits with the power of her voice. And one particular sexy, matchmaking spirit is determined to turn her life upside down.

Sleepwalker - Totally Bound November 2013

Tally Haslam has too much to deal with. A herbalist and aromatherapist, her latest creation - an aphrodisiac potion - remains in unsaleable condition as she has nobody to test it with. And, much to her annoyance, she sleepwalks.

Hoping to get away from it all for a weekend, Tally travels to nearby Madigan Hall for their yearly Paranormal Evening—but on the first night she wakes up outside the bedroom of another guest: Kyle Hunter, who has chosen to pleasure himself with the door open. Tally escapes without being seen, but is unable to get Kyle out of her head—especially when she finds herself at the same table at him the following evening.

However, Tally's world is turned upside down when, at the paranormal dinner, she encounters the ghost of the Blue Lady, who seems determined not to leave her alone—and shows a disturbing penchant, when Tally sleepwalks again, for leading her astray…

Ready for Him - Totally Bound September 2013

In the bar at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, Jade Bleecker celebrates with her three best friends, all of whom are there to get married. Jade is their bridesmaid, and beginning to believe that three times a bridesmaid really does mean never a bride. Tattooed, pierced and a martial artist, Jade is used to inspiring fear rather than desire in men, and even if she did find one who could handle her—well, no man is worth trusting with her body.

But as she is leaving the bar, she comes upon a mugging in progress and, with a few swift moves, makes short work of the mugger. Invited up to the victim's room for a nightcap, she is stunned to discover he is Will Vandenmeer—billionaire poster child of the Vandenmeer hotel and casino chain, and owner of The Sanctuary, one of the best-known BDSM clubs in New York City.

Jade finds herself hopelessly attracted to the sensual, dominant Will, and when he offers to induct her into the world of BDSM, she accepts…but can she truly give herself to him, and is Will ready for what Jade has to offer?

The Tenant of Wildfell Hall - Totally Bound September 2013

Into the quiet village of Lindenhope comes Helen Graham, an attractive young widow and mother. Living alone with her son at Wildfell Hall, her seclusion attracts curiosity from the local people, in particular Gilbert Markham, whose interest in her is soon edged with desire-and Helen, despite herself, begins to reciprocate his love for her.

But when scandalous rumours begin to circulate about Helen's behaviour, Gilbert is filled with anger and jealousy. Helen attempts to clear her name by offering Gilbert her diary, which reveals the dark, passionate story of her former marriage to debauched rake Arthur Huntingdon, whose sexual and sensual desires fill her with excitement and pleasure but precipitate a gradual descent into hell.

Gilbert believes he could forgive her anything, but the lies continue to spread, threatening Helen's peace of mind and, above all, her physical safety. Will the secrets of Helen's past get in the way of their future?

Photograph - Totally Bound May 2014

Tara Thornton hasn't spoken to her sister in two years, ever since Azure married the man of Tara's dreams. Tired of the rift, Azure invites her to take a Mediterranean cruise on a friend's yacht and, bowing to family pressure, Tara accepts.

Forced to be in close proximity with the man she still desires, Tara is thrown into confusion. The presence of celebrity theme park owner Liam Wilder and the reality of his marriage to Azure send Tara into a tailspin and, in an attempt to regain control, she responds to the advances of hot fellow guest Ryan Hyde, while determined to feel no affection for him.

But Ryan has a way of getting under her skin, and Tara's plan to get closer to Liam is rapidly losing its importance as Ryan begins to break down her defences. Can she let go of Liam, let Ryan into her heart...and tell Azure the real reason for her silence?

Tamar Rising - Totally Bound December 2014

Tamar Steele’s star is on the rise. Her relationship with boyfriend Jason Bray is blossoming, as is her bond with her spirit guide, the ghost of Jason’s brother Matt, who has been training her in mediumship. And, newly installed as the medium for her crew of paranormal investigators, she is already receiving press attention, which brings her to the notice of Scare Seekers – a paranormal entertainment show keen to film an episode with Tamar’s team.

But when teammate Hana is violently possessed, filming is thrown into disarray. The dark spirit seems to disappear at first, but when a frenzied Hana attacks Tamar on the drive home, Tamar realises that her mediumistic abilities may not be strong enough to fight the demon.

Until one day Tamar discovers her powers are increased by having sex on haunted ground, and finds that maybe she and Jason can save Hana, their team’s reputation, and themselves…

About Tanith Davenport

Tanith Davenport began writing erotica at the age of 27 by way of the Romantic Novelists' Association New Writers' Scheme. Her debut novel "The Hand He Dealt" was released by Total-e-Bound in June 2011 and was shortlisted for the Joan Hessayon Award for 2012.

Tanith has had short stories published by Naughty Nights Press and House of Erotica. She loves to travel and dreams of one day taking a driving tour of the United States, preferably in a classic 1950s pink Cadillac Eldorado. Her latest novella "Tamar Rising" is out on pre-order from Totally Bound on 23rd November 2014.

Tanith's idea of heaven is an Indian head massage with a Mojito at her side.

Where can you find Tanith Davenport

Website - tanithdavenport.com

Facebook - www.facebook.com/TanithDavenport

Twitter - www.twitter.com/TanithDavenport

Thank you for being with us today, Tanith. I look forward to getting my hands on a copy of Tamar Rising soon. 

Author Interview: Kathy Bosman

Today I have the honor of welcoming multi-published and talented author, Kathy Bosman to the blog to answer some of our interview questions. Her answers provide plenty of writing tips useful to the novice and experienced writers alike.

What genre do you write in? Any specific reason why you chose the genre?

I write contemporary romance – mostly sweet. I enjoy contemporary as it’s fast-moving, fun, and easy to write. I started off with Inspirational Romance, but that genre didn’t work for me although one of my older Inspy Romances has been cleaned up and contracted with Decadent Publishing. Should come out next year some time.

Where do you get the ideas for your books?

Usually inspired by a movie, song or just a thought.

How do you go from idea to outline?

My best time for brainstorming is when I go for my weekly walk. Somehow, being out in the open air all alone inspires my muse. I plot the outline while I walk.

Are you a plotter or a pantser? Why?

Mostly a pantser, but I do plot my initial outline quite thoroughly. Plus I tend to plot in the middle of my book too. But oftentimes, the characters take me somewhere different to my plans. Sometimes, I just have to sit down and write and let the story take me down its exciting path.

If you are a plotter, how thoroughly do you outline the plot?

I don’t write plots down. Somehow that makes me feel trapped. I store it all in my head which can cause a problem if I don’t have time to write and I forget some of my ideas.

Do you use any specific software to outline/plot your novel? If yes, could you give us a couple of advantages and disadvantages of the software or method you use?

Nope, the simpler the software, the better for me – I only use Word. I don’t want the technical stuff to distract me.

If you have to choose only one element (setting/ character development/ structure/ conflict/ etc.) that is absolutely essential to every novel you’ve written, what would it be? Why?

Believable and likeable characters. They have to evoke sympathy from the readers, act in part with their character and not do crazy things (I have had that many times in my books before editors picked them up) and also have a character arc where they change and find their true vision in life.

How much time do you spend on getting to know your characters before you start the first draft? Why?

Now, I know it sounds really lazy, but this part of my book I’m  fully pantser. I let the character reveal themselves to me as I write. I’ve tried to fill in those character questionnaires, but I absolutely hate them and then the character always changes anyway. They’re very rebellious, my characters – like individualistic hippies going their own way – a bit like me.

What is the single most important thing a writer must do before he/she starts writing the first draft? Why?

I think you need to plan what the conflict is that’s going to keep the hero and heroine apart – that’s vital to the story. I also believe that planning a setting and researching it is vital – also finding the specific spot in the world for your character – like what they do and what the romance brings to them. I can’t just write without those things firmly in place.

What is your writing process like? Do you finish the first draft and then start editing or do you edit while you write? Is there any specific reason why you do it like that?

My first draft is usually a sprint. Sometimes I take it slow and deliberate, but usually, I write the first draft really fast as I like to entrench myself in the story. But every book is different – some flow easier than others. Once I’ve completed the first draft, I leave it aside for a while or send it to beta readers. When I go back to it, I can see problems a lot easier than right after I’ve written it. I edit it and then send it off. I do edit as I write but it’s never enough.

Do you only self-edit or hire a professional editor? Why?

I can self-edit to a degree as I’m actually in training to be a line editor – something I really enjoy doing besides writing. I’m okay at picking up missing words, typos or grammatical problems, but when it comes to plot holes, crazy wording, character inconsistencies, etc, I’m not too good as I’m inside my own books. I would never put a book out there without someone else’s eyes. I’ve just sent in a short story to be self-published by a group of writers without going through a professional edit. I think I fine-tooth-combed that story over and  over - got a bit OCD about it. I much prefer knowing it’s been through a professional edit. Although, I have to admit, the beta readers I had for that story did a really great job. So my worries are probably foundless.

If you hire a professional editor, can you recommend anyone and state the reason/s why this person is recommendable?

I’ve never had the money to hire anyone, but I would say Zee Monodee would be an excellent person to hire. I loved working with Johanna Rich – one of the Decadent Publishing editors – she’s great.

How many drafts do you write before submitting to publishers?

Only one. I have sometimes deleted chunks or rewritten scenes, and I have many discarded partial books on my PC.

Do you submit to multiple publishers at the same time or stick to one?

Sometimes I do. Depends.

What is your greatest consideration when selecting a publisher?

How they treat their authors, their professionalism, and their success.

If you have to give one sentence advice to a novice writer, what would it be?

Don’t give up and learn as much as you can from other seasoned writers.

Could you please give us a list of your published books and a short blurb about each one? Please state the publisher and year published as well. (Self-published books are also welcome.)

Wedding Gown Girl published in 2012 with Astraea Press

Blake starts to pursue Kienna, but she holds back, believing he’s on the rebound, yet all the time fighting her attraction to him. Kienna isn’t ready for love either because of memories from her bitter divorce.

Will they find healing in each other’s arms or more hurt for their wounded hearts?

Because when her relationship and everything she clung to starts to crumble, Ryan is right beside her to inspire her to greater things.

But her obsession for having her own child pushes Ryan away when she falls in love with an orphaned HIV-positive baby.

What can Ryan do to make Tessa realize that being with him is what her heart has longed for all along?

Kienna loves dressing up her clients in beautiful gowns at the bridal shop where she works. When Blake comes in with his fiancée to help her choose a gown, Kienna discovers that he is about to make a terrible mistake in marrying her. She has to warn him, but Blake ignores her, until he is jilted at the altar.

Reminding Me of You published in 2013 with Astraea Press

Mia wasn’t planning to fall in love with a mysterious stranger called Luke the day before she left for a new life in London. She also didn’t expect every tall, dark stranger to remind her of him, including his look-a-like, Bryn, who comes into her work one day. Unable to make contact with Luke, she instead has a fling with Bryn who understands how it feels to have a love you can’t reach. Once she finds Luke, will Mia’s memories bring them together or force them apart?

Dragonfly Moments published by Decadent Publishing in 2013

A young woman’s first love walks back into her life at the worst time possible—she is about to start a family with another man. But when her dreams begin to crumble, which one will be there to help her pick up the pieces?

Seven years earlier, at university, Tessa Calitz wrote a letter to Ryan le Roux promising her undying love. As time passed, she forgot about that letter...but not Ryan, who clung to the hope that she would wait for him. Such is not the case when he walks back into her life. Tessa is in a serious relationship, and is busy setting up her art gallery in Johannesburg. She has plans to start a family, and the arrival of Ryan into her life throws her for a spin.

He is the worst thing that could happen to her dream of stability and starting a family...or is he?

Cosmetic Heart published by Astraea Press 2013

Lisa works for a top South African magazine as the make-up artist, but writes articles on the quiet. When the chief editor, Daniel, asks for her help in posing as his ex-fiancée to save face with his family, Lisa agrees, hoping to obtain a promotion in return. She doesn’t expect to fall for the handsome editor nor to fit in with his family who love her unconditionally. But Lisa has more secrets, and she doesn’t believe in love and family. After Daniel finds out her secrets, will his forgiveness and determination be enough to cut through all the layers Lisa has put over her heart?

Three Tiers for Win published by Astraea Press 2013

Three Tiers for Win is a story of adventure, romance, and family passion that unfolds with the backdrop of the 2012 London Olympics. Elaine said she would never date an athlete as they’re too driven. That’s until she meets kind, yet intensely focused and ambitious South African Olympic swimmer, Winston Harper. He stands for everything she’d chosen not to go for. Win also has a bad family history which keeps him from opening his heart to her. When intense attraction and affection breaks through some of their barriers, family secrets and conflicts pull them apart again. Only Elaine’s support and Win’s brokenness can draw them back together, but will that be strong enough to wipe away the past?

His Halloween Kisses published by Astraea Press in 2014

Ali’s never been so scared. She’s housesitting for a colleague on Halloween night, but the lights have gone out, and terrible noises and crashes send her imagination into overdrive. When her brother’s friend comes to her rescue, he kisses her in the dark three times. Once back in the light, Ali is embarrassed at allowing him to kiss her. Byron tries to ignore his strong attraction for Ali, especially seeing he’s not ready for a relationship. When Ali finds out why, she runs away, but life has other plans. What can bring them together? Fate, faith, or the memory of his Halloween kisses?

I also have a short story in an anthology:

Love And Diamonds is a collection of romantic love stories for Valentine's Day by fifteen of some of the best Astraea Press Authors. So sit back, relax and fall in love all over again. 

Here is a listing of the contributing authors in alphabetical order: Kathy Bosman, Liz Botts, Kristine Cheney, Sherry Gloag, Jennifer Gravely, Heather Gray, Patricia Kiyono, Zanna Mackenzie, Kelly Martin, Brenda Maxfield, Amy Mullen, Vivian Roycraft, J. L. Salter, E. A. West and Nicole Zoltack.

A blurb of my story in the book: Rosalee finds an engagement ring in a pocket at the dry cleaner where she works. The ring looks just like the one she returned after accepting her boyfriend’s proposal a year earlier. She still regrets giving it back to Sam especially after he broke her heart and left. Unable to resist, she tries on the ring but can’t get it off. She has to find the owner and explain herself. What will she say?

About Kathy Bosman

Here's a little bit about me for those who may be curious. I've been writing for about ten years now. I started off writing children's books. Then my husband suggested that I try an adult novel. I enjoyed writing it so much, and it turned out to be a romance. That made me realise that I could bring my love of romance into my writing. My writing has evolved over the years from partial romance, to inspirational romance, historicals (which didn't work at all!) to sweet, contemporary romance.

I've also learnt that writing isn't just about writing - that so much thought goes into it, there's also the editing process which is actually even more work than the writing process, and lastly, once the book is out, there's promoting of your book. But I love it!
Besides writing, I keep myself busy by homeschooling my three children (okay one is a teenager), tackling piles of laundry and dishes, making all sorts of food from scratch, and helping out with raising funds for the local Cubs and Scouts. Reading and watching romantic movies help me unwind.
The best inspiration for my writing has been the ROSA (Romance Writers of South Africa) Group. What a fantastic group of writers they are who have helped me get to where I am now.

Where can we find you on social media?

Website and blog: http://www.kathybosman.com/

Facebook author page: http://www.facebook.com/KathleenBosman

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KathleenLBosman

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5257900.Kathy_Bosman

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/gracewalk17

Google+: https://plus.google.com/+KathleenBosman

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Kathy-Bosman/e/B007GCQBNK/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxifimh0X62uZLvKkon8tDQ

Newsletter Subscription: http://eepurl.com/NokET

Thank you Kathy for taking the time to answer these questions. New writers (and some established ones) can always learn from experienced people—even if it is just to get some ideas and methods to try out.

Author Interview: Romy Sommer

Today I have the privilege of welcoming the talented author Romy Sommer to my blog. Romy has graciously agreed to provide some insight into her writing processes and help aspiring authors any way she can. Romy is the founder of ROSA (Romance Writers Organization of South Africa) and I'm pleased to say, also the organizer of the first ROSA conference in Johannesburg in October 2014.

What genre do you write in? Any specific reason why you chose the genre?

I write contemporary romance. My books started as straightforward romances and gradually have grown a little more humorous and a little more like fairy tales over the years. I love to write light-hearted, modern stories that are upbeat.

Where do you get the ideas for your books? How do you go from idea to outline?

Ideas are everywhere. I’ve had stories spring from a song, a dream, a headline at the side of the road, a blog post that got me thinking about something… and the ideas keep coming as I’m writing and researching. Usually when I get a new idea, I jot it down in a notebook then let it sit for a while so it can grow, rising like yeasty bread. Once the idea has substance I start to add other ideas to it. Again, songs, other books I read, movies I watch all help me to flesh out the characters and the plot, right up until I type The End.

Are you a plotter or a pantser? Why?

A bit of both. I love Blake Snyder’s beatsheet, and I tend to plot my story around the turning points at 25, 50% and 75% of the story, but the rest is subject to change without notice as I’m writing.

If you are a plotter, how thoroughly do you outline the plot?

In my earlier days of writing I used to plan meticulously, even down to how many chapters and what would happen in each. These days I let my instincts guide me and I plot a lot less. But I absolutely have to know my characters inside and out before I start the first draft.

Do you use any specific software to outline/plot your novel? If yes, could you give us a couple of advantages and disadvantages of the software or method you use?

Until now I’ve only worked in Word, but I couldn’t do it without the incredibly amazing Document Map feature. I recently viewed a Webinar on Scrivener and I might give that program a shot for my next book.

If you have to choose only one element (setting/ character development/ structure/ conflict/ etc.) that is absolutely essential to every novel you’ve written, what would it be? Why?

Without a doubt, character. These are the people through whom the readers experience the story, and whether they’re likable and relatable is the difference between a reader turning the pages or throwing the book against the wall. Also, the characters’ journeys are what determine the conflicts and the plot, so for me character is always the starting place.

How much time do you spend on getting to know your characters before you start the first draft? Why?

I spend quite a bit of time up front doing biographies of my characters, and finding pictures of celebrities who might match the images in my head. I also research where they live, their jobs, any major experiences they might have had in their lives. Then I decorate the pinboard next to my desk with pictures, maps, inspiration for the characters and their surroundings, any pertinent props etc. (check out my Pinterest boards to see the kind of pictures I assemble). This can take a good few weeks before I start writing their story.

What is the single most important thing a writer must do before he/she starts writing the first draft? Why?

As I’ve said above, I think the writer should know their characters, their world view and their GMC (goals, motivation and conflicts) before starting the first draft.

What is your writing process like? Do you finish the first draft and then start editing or do you edit while you write? Is there any specific reason why you do it like that?

In the past I have written fast, but very, very rough first drafts and gone back to edit them later. These days I follow a very slow, linear process, editing as I write. I start at page 1, chapter 1, and move slowly forward, occasionally going back to add in a line or two that supports what I’m writing now. By the end I tend to have a very clean first draft. I then get one of my CPs or a beta reader to do a quick once over, then I do another complete pass (all in one go if I can so I can view the book as a whole) and then I send it off to my editor.

Do you only self-edit or hire a professional editor? Why?

I am a pretty ruthless self-editor, but there is no way I would publish anything without professional eyes first taking a look. It is way too easy for the writer to miss stuff because they’re too close to the story. Also, professional editors not only see the story objectively, but bring a wealth of knowledge and market understanding to the table.

If you hire a professional editor, can you recommend anyone and state the reason/s why this person is recommendable?

I’ve worked with two freelance editors and loved the experience of working with both of them. Cindy Davis, the Fiction Doctor, is a wonderful editor who has worked with a few of my CPs as well, and Nan Swanson (who was my editor at The Wild Rose Press) has also been tremendously helpful and encouraging.

How many drafts do you write before submitting to publishers?

These days my first draft is pretty close to the final draft, but I try to do at least one or two more passes over it before submitting. For a newbie submitting to the slush pile though, I’d recommend at least 2 rounds of editing, with long breaks in between so you can gain distance and objectivity.

Do you submit to multiple publishers at the same time or stick to one?

When I first started submitting I only submitted to one at a time, since those were the accepted rules. Also, there were fewer romance publishers in the game back then.

These days I think publishers have become less rigid, so uncontracted authors can get away with submitting to a couple of publishers at the same time. I wouldn’t recommend blanket submitting, though. Choose the one or two publishers you really want to work with and target them first.

I now write under contract for my publisher, Harper Impulse, so at least I’m saved the worry of wondering where to submit and whether they’ll want me. The wait times are still a killer, though!

What is your greatest consideration when selecting a publisher? 

Writers are spoilt for choice these days, but I’d say the most important thing any writer should look for is a good reputation. Check out the Absolute Write website, contact authors already published by that publisher – are they legit, do they treat their authors with respect, do they pay on time?

After that, the next most important thing is the relationship between you and your editor. If the editor understands you and your books, and believes in you, that’ already half the battle won right there.

Lastly, what can the publisher do for you that you can’t do for yourself? If it’s editorial support, or marketing, or getting your name into a new market, then pick a publisher that is strong in that area and will offer you what you need.

These days you don’t need to be locked into one publisher for life, so it is also important to re-look your relationship with your publisher every few years. Is it time to move on to a new publisher with a different skill set, are you ready now to venture into self publishing, or are you still happy with your current publisher?

If you have to give one sentence advice to a novice writer, what would it be?

Don’t give up.

Could you please give us a list of your published books and a short blurb about each one? Please state the publisher and year published as well.

I have two contemporary romances published by Harper Impulse, an imprint of HarperCollins, with a third out soon.

Waking up in Vegas was published in May 2013The Trouble with Mojitos in October 2013To Catch a Star releases on 25 September 2014.

What happens in Vegas…

Waking up to the bright lights of Vegas in an unfamiliar penthouse suite, cocktail waitress Phoenix Montgomery finds she’s covered from head to foot in gold glitter and not alone – aside from the empty bottle of champagne, there’s a mystery man in the shower and a huge sparkly ring on her finger!

Stays in Vegas?

There’s no denying Max Waldburg’s demi-god sex appeal but commitment-phobic Phoenix doesn’t do relationships. Only it seems her new husband (agh!) has other ideas…he’s trying to keep that ring on her finger and his wife firmly back in his bed. The only question on her lips is – why? Or maybe, why not?

Waking up in Vegas is published by Harper Impulse, a division of Harper Collins, and is available from the following online retailers:

Amazon , Amazon UK , Barnes & Noble , Kobo , iTunes , All Romance eBooks

Turquoise blue waters. Sandy white beaches. Mojitos... Film location scout Kenzie Cole has found herself in paradise. Working in the Caribbean for a week is just what she needs to escape the long line of exes in her closet. Though the last thing she expects is to be picked up at the resort bar by a disgraced former Prince!

Luckily for Kenzie, exile is suiting the man formerly known as Prince Fredrik very well. And it’s not long before his rugged, pirate charm is proving hard to resist.

But Rik’s been spending his time in paradise exorcising demons of his own and he has danger written all over him. If Kenzie was sensible she’d run a mile instead of lose herself to lust - although, they do say sometimes you have to get lost before you can be found....

The Trouble with Mojitos is published by Harper Impulse, a division of Harper Collins, and is available from the following online retailers:

Amazon , Amazon UK , Barnes & Noble , Kobo , iTunes , All Romance eBooks

‘A fairy-tale romance to warm even the coldest of hearts.’ Chloe’s Chick Lit Reviews

Teresa Adler is the ultimate Ice Princess, with a heart as frozen as the winter landscape of her beloved home, Westerwald. All her life, she’s belonged to the ‘inner circle’ of wealth, privilege and position.

Christian Taylor: Heartthrob. Movie Star. Bad boy. The mischievous actor sets temperatures soaring in the picturesque baroque principality – and with a wicked glint in his eye and a chip on his shoulder he sets his sights on the one thing he’s told he can’t have. Teresa.

While Tessa holds the ultimate clue to the secret of Christian’s parentage, it is the heat of his touch that will make this Ice Princess feel more alive than she ever has before…

To Catch a Star is published by Harper Impulse, a division of Harper Collins, and is available from the following online retailers:

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About Romy Sommer

I’ve always written stories for myself, but didn’t even think of being an author until I realised that being over thirty and living in a fantasy world was a little odd. Writing those same stories for other people makes it a lot more acceptable!

By day I dress in cargo pants and boots for my not-so-glamorous job of making movies but at night I come home to my two little Princesses, in Johannesburg, South Africa, where I live, and I get to write Happy Ever Afters. Since I believe every girl is a princess, and every princess deserves a happy ending, what could be more perfect?

You can follow Romy on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Goodreads or on her website/blog.