The Next Best Thing
**You still have until December 21st to be eligible for the giveaway in the SEOULFUL KISS contest. Scroll to the post before this one and just leave a comment. You’ll automatically be added to the drawing!**
My buddy KAREN ERICKSON tagged me to participate in The Next Big Thing blog hop so I’m going to answer a few questions about the book I’m currently working on. Shall we begin?
What is the working title of your book?
SEOUL SECRET PROJECT (I don’t want to jinx myself by giving away the title since I love it so much)
Where did the idea come from for the book?
I’ve always had a desire to write darker, edgier stories and have jotted notes here and there for the past few years. There really wasn’t a particular source that I got this story idea from unless you count my characters speaking (and nagging) at me for years to write it. However, I will say it was this past year of watching really good Korean dramas that helped me flesh out the storyline so I won’t take total credit!
What genre does your book fall under?
Sensual contemporary romance.
Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?
Since this is an international setting, the actors/actresses I’d want would be fairly unknown to Americans—all except for yummy Daniel Henney. I think it’s better to show you, rather than tell you. These are some choices I’ve envisioned for my hero. However, for the heroine I don’t have a clear image of who I’d like just yet.
What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?
An all consuming and volatile relationship of a couple tormented by their social class differences—yet strengthened by a passionate, unbreakable love.
Will your book be self-published or published by an agency?
This series will be going through my agent and I’ll be excited about whichever publisher gets their hands on it first.
How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?
I’ve been scribbling notes for a couple of years now but I just started writing it officially in October, in between projects. The first draft should be done by March 2013. At least that’s what I have marked on my calendar, anyway.
What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?
I’m really not sure.
I’ve never thought about it being compared to another story in my genre because it’s something I’m writing for myself—and I feel like my voice is my own—so there isn’t an adequate answer to the question.
Who or what inspired you to write this book?
ME.
I wanted to write a dark romance to entertain myself and to prove that I can strip all my insecurities to create something I think will be emotionally gripping and beautiful. Something that will make me laugh, ache, cry and feel relieved when the characters can finally be together.
What else about your book might pique the reader’s interest?
It’s going to be more of a melodrama with a twisted modern-day fairytale take. Seoul, Korea is gorgeous and although it’s so interesting, there’s something about that city that has the right mood for the storytelling. On the outside it’s so trendy and luxurious, but I want to delve beneath the polished facade and pull out the darker side of the city—focus on the damaged hero/heroines with deep emotional scars who only desire to love and be loved.
I’m supposed to tag five other authors to blog next week (12/26/12) so here we go!
Eden Bradley — One of my best friend’s and an amazing erotic author who writes lush characters in the world of BDSM and beyond. She’s one of my first critique partners and I’m so excited that her career has taken off. She’s also been a great inspiration to me!
Olivia Mayfield — Most people know her as her as young adult author Rhonda Helms, but she’s pulling off her Clark Kent glasses to become a contemporary author. She also wears many hats including one as an editor for Carina Press…but what I love most about her is her fun and sassy side that keeps me entertained. Her official website launches next week in time for the blog hop but you can visit her alter ego.
Pamela Labud — She’s a chaptermate and friend who is a versatile author that’s also prolific. “What genre hasn’t she written?” That’s what we often joke about but she is as talented as she is as supportive and kind. Her stuff sizzles.
Vivienne Westlake — Another one of my closest friends who is a new voice in historical romance. She writes sexy, hot reads about Captains, Marquesses, and Wicked Earls. What’s not to love?
Chudney Thomas — I know I’m breaking the rules for adding a soon-to-be-pubbed writer but she’s one of my weekend writing buddies, and dear friend, who writes contemporary and paranormal romances. Although she doesn’t have a release out yet, she’s inching closer and closer to publishing. Her blog posts are entertaining as well as insightful and I’m keeping an eye on her because one of these days I will hear the news we both want to hear!