Michele Arris brings steamy contemporary romance to life. The RWA Golden Heart winner loves to combine strong willed heroines with complex heroes who have to work for love. A reader at heart, Michele has an eclectic life that includes indulging in old films, enjoying working out, and laughing with family and friends.
Your latest book, Devil’s Deal (Tarnished Billionaires Book 1)
I’ve always been an avid reader. When I was about twelve years old, I visited a used book store and there was a shelf of romance books. I became hooked on the HEA. I love getting into my characters’ heads. One thing that inspired me to write was I would hate when a good book or series came to an end, so I’d sit and write more on the hero and heroine to enjoy their world a little longer.
What is your favorite one-liner from your book, and why?
“…when the past calls, let it go to voice mail because it’s got nothing new to say.”
I still chuckle whenever I read that line. It’s one of my favorites because the character said it angrily, yet I found it humorous.
Which five people would you invite to a dinner party and why?
Hmm…interesting question. Well, since I enjoy being around people who makes me laugh, I would first invite a comedian. Bill Burr and Chris Rock would be my choices. Then, I’d consider someone who likes to discuss ways to better one’s life, like perhaps Tony Robbins or Oprah. I’d also, want an author at the dinner table. My pick would be the late, Bertrice Small. She was my inspiration for dipping my toe into the steamy romance genre. I really loved how she’d structure an intimate scene. I’m pretty sure I’ve read every book she’s ever written. Pick up her book, “Lara (The World of Hetar Book 1)
What were you like at school?
I was a very quiet individual in school and preferred to stand in the back of a crowd. When I started writing and had to put myself out on social media, it caused a small state of panic. I had to stepped out into the spotlight, so to speak. I wasn’t on Facebook or Twitter and had to learn how to use it. What a challenge that was. 🙂 I’m still not fully skilled in it.
What piece of advice would you give to anyone aspiring to be a writer?
My first advice for an aspiring writer would be to read. Read everything you can to really understand the craft and learn the genre well that you intend to write. As a new writer, I found it best to pick a specific genre instead of doing what I call, “genre hopping”. This way, you start to build an author brand right out of the gate. That doesn’t mean you can’t switch from writing contemporary to historical ever throughout your writing career. If you start out writing contemporary, for example, but have a historical burning a hole in your brain, write it. In my limited experience, editors/publishers like to see a history of your writing style/voice before they are willing to commit. If you build an author brand, it makes it easier for them to say yes because they can see their investment a bit more vividly.
Not everyone will burst out of the gate with a NYT Best Seller. In other words, be realistic about your career goals. Most of all, write because you love to write, not for money or fame. It can be a long, long road to publication for some, but don’t give up.
About: Devil’s Deal
Sparks fly in this spicy romance debut when an ambitious career woman meets a golden boy billionaire determined to capture her heart.
CEO Billionaire Lucas Marx isn’t used to hearing the word “no.” So when he hits on gorgeous moonlighting waitress Bailey Walters and she coldly turns him down, he becomes focused on finding a way into the captivating woman’s heart.
Bailey knows men are more trouble than they’re worth, and golden boy Lucas is especially dangerous. Turns out he’s not just any guy, but the ex of her boss, who is determined to get him back. Bailey is focused on building her career in interior design, and if her boss finds out she’s stolen her man, she’ll lose everything…
Buy it here:
Amazon: Devil’s Deal (Tarnished Billionaires Book 1)
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