What
were you in your life before you became a writer? Did this influence your
writing?
I was a television and video producer and
editor for over twenty years. But even though I was successful at it, it was
never my passion. When I was a young girl, I loved making up stories in my
head, but I never pictured being an author as a viable career choice. My
decision to follow my passion was sudden, a confluence of life events that came
together, allowing me to make this life-changing decision. In the space of a
month, I shut down my business and packed up my city life. A month later I
arrived in a small seaside village to begin my new life…as an author.
My experience working with TV scripts has
impacted on my writing. I plan my books in great detail, as if I was planning a
film shoot, right down to listing all the different locations, sets, and
wardrobe. And I love working through the different editing phases. When I was a
film-editor, I learned not to hang on to any particular sequence or shot just
because it took a long time to film or cost half the budget! If it didn’t add
to the film, it had to be cut. This works exactly the same for book editing. If
a scene doesn’t drive the plot forward—even if it took you all night and ten
cups of coffee to write—cut it out!
Are you genre specific or
general? Why? I don't mean genres like romance, mystery, fantasy etc. There are
many subgenres of the above.
After a year of trying to find the
perfect genre description for my books, I’ve arrived at Steamy Romantic Suspense. Initially, my publisher categorized me as
Erotic Romance but I argued that sex is not an inherent part of my stories or
character development. In fact, I could easily censor the love scenes from my
books and the plots would not be negatively effected because they are focused
on relationship issues, betrayals and suspense. But who wants to read a happily
ever after romance without the sexy bedroom bits? Not me!
Did your reading choices have anything to do with your
choice of a genre or genres?
Absolutely. I like all sorts of fiction ranging from commercial crime
stories and thrillers like those written by Harlan Coben and Michael Connelly,
to more literary authors like Wally Lamb and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. But when
it comes to romance, I have particular preferences—there needs to be strong
alpha male heroes, intelligent sassy heroines and heartbreaking love stories that brings you to
tears. And, of course, the sex has to be scorching hot. I also don’t mind a bit
of paranormal, I mean who doesn’t love an alfa shifter hunting down his mate?
And I especially love Second Chance love stories with a sprinkle of suspense.
The romance authors I have on automatic purchase when they release a new book
are Kristen Ashley, Nalini Singh, Thea Harrison and Lora Leigh (loved her early
Breed Series and original Nauti Boys.)
What's your latest release?
I am excited to share that Gray’s Promise (King Security Book 2)
is releasing on December 8. It’s
set in New York and Denton, Texas and is all about Grayson “Gray” Walker,
Luke’s marine sniper buddy and best friend (from Luke’s Redemption, Book 1). Gray’s a wicked charmer but beneath his
handsome persona, he carries a deep emotional hurt. His one-and-only is the brilliant
but damaged Doctor Zoey Morgan. Gray and Zoey still carry emotional scars from
a terrible tragedy that tore them apart fourteen years before. Their story is
filled with pain and a heart-wrenching beauty as it follows their fraught
reconciliation. And, of course, their sexual chemistry is so scorching it
always gets me in a hot sweat when I think about it.
Read more about Gray and Zoey in my book
spotlight tomorrow and don’t miss the Gray’s
Promise Pre-Release Giveaway where you can win a free copy of this brand
new release.
If you haven’t read Luke’s
Redemption (King Security Book 1) now’s your opportunity. Starting today –
December 1 –
Luke’s Redemption is on a 99c Sale. Limited time only so be quick!
What are you working on now?
I’m delighted to share
that I’m working on Eva’s Peace, the third book in my King Security Series. It’s
already been contracted by my publisher, The Wild Rose Press, and is due for
release in the fall next year.
Where can we find you?
You
can read all about me on my website, and join Anni’s Posse to get
regular updates and Bonus Treats—www.annifife.com
Or
follow Anni on Twitter—https://twitter.com/AnniFifeAuthor
Amazon— https://www.amazon.com/author/annifife
Goodreads— https://www.goodreads.com/AnniFife
6 comments:
Hello Janet. Thank you for hosting me on your lovely blog, and for helping me share the news about my 99c Sale for Luke's Redemption, and my new release, Gray's Promise. Happy weekend...and happy reading. Anni xx
Interesting interview. Good luck with the book!
Sounds like a great read, Anni. I really like the title. All the best.
Thanks Jennifer and CB, your support is awesome! Annni xx
I admire writers who can execute steamy scenes. I am a total flop at that! Easier to write 9 innings of a baseball game! Best wishes for continued success.
Anni, Thanks for being my guest. Good luck with the sale.
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