Author Interview

What was the hardest part about writing The Green Light ?

I had wanted to write a sequel to The Green Card since I was halfway through writing it! Unfortunately, the three years since publishing that first book, have truly been a whirlwind. I went through a very difficult break up, followed by a new relationship that is wonderful but had a rough start. I went back to school and changed careers! I moved three times, had five surgeries, and relapsed with my eating disorder. I wanted to write, but did not have the time or mental energy, and the longer I went without writing, the harder it was to get back to it. Life is still far from calm, but I at least have lunch breaks once again, and have been able to use these to write! 

When did you know you wanted to be an author?

I’ve wanted to be a writer since I learned that was a thing! My earliest memories are of creating elaborate stories in my head. I realized I wanted to write romance novels during a tough time in my life, when romance novels became a wonderful, desperately-needed escape for me – I wanted to provide that for others. 

What is your writing process like?

I start with an idea for a book, and then as I let it percolate, I look for visuals. I am a very visual person, so I will look for images that help me bring the stories from my head into the world. For The Green Light I looked up New York apartments (the sort I could never dream of affording, but that’s why it’s a fantasy!), and had images of my favorite spots of Central Park saved on my desktop – I imagined accompanying Mandy on her runs or cooking alongside her, and that’s how the book took shape. I am currently working on a book that takes place in Maine, so I have been having fun looking for the perfect coastal backdrop!  

Do you like to listen to music while you write? If so, what kind?

I’m such a dork, but I love classical music!! Mozart is great for when writing is flowing well, Chopin is excellent for a more dramatic scene, Tchaikovsky brings out more of my “little” side! 

What do you love most about books?

Books have always provided me with an escape from the world. As an adult (technically) I have my home filled with books, to create the illusion of a fortress of books sheltering me from the rest of the world. 

Do you like to outline or just dive right in when writing?

Both! I always have a plan written out, but when I get in a good writing flow, things just happen and I let them. Mandy is very real to me, and we all know she is not going to do anything she does not want to do! So if Mandy says the book is going in a certain direction, it’s best to just let that happen.  

Would you rather do the spanking or be spanked?

I am a sub through and through! 

What do you like to collect?

Books, Playbills, and elephants (stuffed animals, ceramics, art, and even salt and pepper shakers! Sadly, I have yet to add a real one to my collection). 

Tell us about your most adventurous experience. 

I traveled around Europe by myself. My travel buddy backed out last minute, so I just went solo! It was scary but it was an incredible opportunity for growth and self discovery. I highly recommend solo travel for everyone, at least once in your life! 

What’s next? 

I am working on a new book, separate from The Green Card series (I expect that will be a trilogy, but the ultimate book is on the back burner for now!). I am very excited about this one! I hope to publish it sometime this decade!