Today I have the pleasure of speaking with author
Sophie Greyson. Thanks for taking time to talk with me today
Sophie.
To start, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I've been a romantic from an early age. Cinderella was my absolute favorite book as a child - I read it over and over. My mother once gave me money to buy a big, cardboard version of the book at the school book fair - I carried it with me everywhere. I've always loved music, particularly romantic ballads, and I began reading romances in high school when a librarian showed me the light. :) I think there is nothing more exhilarating than falling in love. So, it's a major high to create the emotion for readers and my characters.
Could you tell readers a little bit about your new release
Heaven Scent?
Sure! Here is a brief blurb: On her deathbed, Lady Jane Worthington makes her eight-year-old daughter, Tarin, promise her three things: live life as she pleases, do not allow her father to arrange her marriage and, most of all, marry for love.
After witnessing her mother's suffering and subsequent death, Tarin is determined to save others from the same fate. And nothing, not her noble status, nor society's belief that women cannot be doctors, will keep her from making Gregory's first female medical college a reality.
Rafe Sutherland, long-lost Brahmin rogue turned Texas Ranger, returns home after his father's mysterious death, bearing secrets. Rafe's wildly virile and arrogant persona, as well as his animosity with a college-supporting suitor, threatens Tarin's plans. And her father's continual matchmaking with the national hero makes Rafe completely out of the question.
What Tarin doesn't realize is that Rafe comes with a little help from above, and what mother wants, mother gets.
What is your favorite line from the novel and why?
You're going to make me choose just one line??! Wow, that is so hard. OK, here is one: His ability to maneuver innocent young girls in and out of dark gardens without notice undoubtedly aided his nocturnal war strategy, Tarin mused. This line made me laugh because Tarin was so mad at herself for finding Rafe attractive. She didn't have time for love. One of the gossips had just told her every other woman in Boston found him attractive, too. Tarin thought she was above such notions. She had just met Rafe and was already smitten, whether she wanted to accept it or not. IMHO, part of falling in love is being humbled. Tarin was well on her way.
Heaven Sent is a historical romance story. Can readers expect more from you in this genre? Are there other genres you would like to explore?
Yes, I do plan a spin-off of Heaven Scent. If you read the book, you will know who the main characters will be. :) My next release will be a contemporary romantic comedy set in Texas. Caution: smokin hot cowboys ahead!
Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Yes, finding the time to write. I work full time so sneaking in writing time is hard. I also have a hard time saying "Ok, this book is finished." I think I could revise indefinitely. I have to tell myself enough already. :)
What is the most interesting thing you've done in the name of research?
Probably researching bad pick up lines. In my upcoming romantic comedy, bad pick up lines are key. I was amazed at just how awful some of them are. I did a lot of internet research and put the question to a lot of males I know. Hilarious research, to say the least.
If you could pick any celebrity to be on the cover of your book, who would it be and why?
You're going to make me pick just one, again??! You guys are tough. :) Right now, I'm on a Chris Hemsworth kick (Thor, and the Huntsman in the upcoming movie, "Snow White and the Huntsman"). I would love to see him on a cover. Then again, I'd just love to see him. :) He portrays an alpha male beautifully. I'm really into alphas.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I try to fool myself into thinking I'm a plotter, but when I create a plot outline I usually never stick to it. My characters tend to take over scenes and change things. So, when that happens, I go back to my plotting outline and change it to reflect my character's changes. Even if I have already written the scene. Weird, I know. But, when I am done, it helps me to look at the overall character arc and W plot.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
When I released this book!
If you had a warning label, what would it say?
Caution: Perfectionist ahead. Should mumbled cursing and head banging occur, immediately vacate the area.
What is one habit you have that you know you'll never change?
I cannot quit using the word "awesome" to save my life. It is so outdated but I can't make myself quit saying it.
Which room in your home would you say is your favorite?
The kitchen. I write at the kitchen table, and when my family is together, we always congregate in the kitchen. Good times.
What's a household chore that you really hate doing?
Again, with the one answer! :) I hate it all. But, if I had to choose, I guess it would be mopping.
What can your fans look forward to in the next twelve months from you?
I plan to promote Heaven Scent over the next few months. My hope is to release my romantic comedy by the end of the year.
Is there anything else you would like to share today or any websites where readers can find you?
Yes! Connect with me online at my website, On Facebook, and on Twitter. Thank you!
Thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to answer some questions for us today
Sophie!
Readers,
Sophie is giving away a free e-book by random drawing to one lucky winner who emails her during the month of July. All you need to do is email
Sophie - sophieATsophiegreysonDOTcom and tell her you read her interview at FAR.
Interviewed by: Tammy