Author Interview
With
Lilly James
Plus
Guests
Hi Lilly, can you tell us a little about yourself and your work?
Hi Louise! I sure can. I am a British author who likes to write about very naughty, sexy alpha men. It’s almost like an obsession. Who am I kidding, it IS an obsession. I live in Wales with my beautiful daughter. I don’t have any fur babies, but I do dream about having a puppy one day. My hobbies include writing, reading and eating chocolate. Lots of chocolate. I first began writing after I had read Fifty Shades and Grey. Like a lot of authors, there was something about E.L.James’s stories that inspired me to pick up a pen and get some of my own ideas onto paper. My first books that I allowed into the open is a three part erotic romance, about two damaged souls who cannot live without each other. The very alpha, stubborn and extremely hot Mr. Parks, meets his match in feisty Evelyn Banks and they hit it off pretty much right away. Well, not right away because Evelyn denied him time and time again, until she gave in. I mean, who wouldn’t give in to Wade Parks? You’d have to be pretty stupid. My most recent novel that came out January 17th is a college romance. The two leading men from each of my books couldn’t be more different, but what they have in common, is that they treat their women like queens.
Why did you choose to write in your particular field or genre? If you write more than one, how do you balance them?
I wrote new adult/college romance this time because believe it or not it is my favourite genre. I think you can be humorous, and silly and have more fun with a college romance because the characters are still young and can come out with the funniest, wildest remarks. The Parks Series is erotic, so it is more deep, intimate and more detailed. Balancing the two came naturally.
What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
How much I care about the characters. Those who don’t write can’t possibly begin to imagine how it feels to have these people in your head that are talking to you, telling you their story. How real they feel, and how much you want to make them proud in telling their story. (Do I sound mad?)
What is the first book that made you cry?
I think it was a book I had read in primary school. I was about 11. It was called, A Child Called it by Dave Pelzer. It was horrific, yet so inspiring.
What has your experience been like as an indie author? Bruises, highlights, lessons.
My experience has been up and down, as many would agree. Great days and crap days come and go. But I have to remined myself why I am writing in the first place. Highlights will always be those emails or messages and reviews from readers telling me how much they enjoyed my books. It doesn’t get any better than that.
Does a big ego help or hurt writers?
Hmm, maybe a bit of both. Confidence is always good to have, brilliant in fact. But a big ego… it depends how they come across. No one likes a show off.
What is your writing Kryptonite?
Trying to make everything perfect, when nothing is ever perfect. Beating myself up over a paragraph that just isn’t reading right.
Did you ever consider writing under a pseudonym?
I do. Maybe I will one day.
If you could tell your younger writing self anything,
what would it be?
Well, I have only been writing a year, so maybe I could answer this question in a couple more years. Haha.
If you could spend the day with a character from one of your books who would it be and what would you?
Oh, this is so hard! Okay, I am going to rule out the men straight away, because I cannot possibly choose between them. I am going to go with Fallon, from Bad News. Louisa’s roommate. She is crazy and I know we would hit a few pubs and have a night that we would want to forget in the morning.
What was the best money you ever
spent as a writer?
Umm, probably on a blog tour I once did for my third book in The Parks Series because it really helped get the word out.
How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?
I have 7 unpublished/unfished books
right now.
What’s the best way to market your books?
I think Facebook ads are great. Twitter. Asking blogs to help spread the word. The biggest way for anyone to find out about your book, I feel, is from word of mouth.
What’s the most difficult thing about writing characters
from the opposite sex?
I actually find it pretty easy to write in a male perspective. But I do find myself thinking, what do men really think? I have a lot of guy friends I can ask, too, if I am stuck.
What period of your life do you find you write about most often? (child, teenager, young adult)
Mainly new adult.
How do you select the names of your characters?
Sometimes the name just pops into my head. Other times I will look through male and female names on the internet until something jumps out at me.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
I read every one. I feel like if that person has taken the time to write a review, good or bad, then I should have the decency to read it. I used to deal with bad reviews horribly. It would really affect me, now, I sometimes laugh, or as soon as I have read it I don’t give it a second thought. Good reviews have me jumping for joy and smiling like a crazy cat.
Do you hide any secrets in your books that only a few
people will find?
I don’t.
What was your hardest scene to write?
*SPOILER ALERT* It was the scene in Lost in Mr. Parks where Evelyn loses her baby. That was extremely difficult to write. A lot of tears were lost that day.
Do you Google yourself?
Never. Nothing would come up anyway.
Ha ha.
What is your favorite childhood book?
It has to be Elmer the Elephant. Then when I was a little bit older, Carries War by Nina Bawden.
Does your family support your career
as a writer?
100%
If you had to do something differently as a child or teenager to become a better writer as an adult, what would you do?
I think I would have stayed on in college to get my degree in English, but it is never too late.
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
Around four/five months. That is if the characters
are being cooperative.
Do you believe in writer’s block?
Oh yes. I am currently experiencing
it now.
********************
DO NOT READ ANY FURTHER UNLESS YOU HAVE READ BAD NEWS. HUNTER AND LOUISA'S CHARACTER INTERVIEW CONTAINS LOADS OF SPOILERS.
*************************
Hunter & Louisa Interview
Thank you both for joining me today,
how are you both?
H: Could be better.
(Louisa nudges Hunter)
L: We’re both good, thank you for having us.
Hunter you are known for being a player but only those close to you know the truth. Why don’t you set the record straight and put a stop to the rumours?
H: I don’t see the point. Let them talk. I don’t care what they think about me. If those I care about know the real me, then I’m happy.
Louisa you and your sister don't seem as close as sisters should be. Is there a reason are you and Bree are not close?
L: It’s such a shame, isn’t it? I think it is down to her feeling left out. She feels like my dad favours me, which is not true.
H: I would favour you.
L: Hunter, stop. Anyway. I also think it is because she feels like I have betrayed her by sticking by my dad and his decision to move on so quickly with another woman after my mom died. I mean, I didn’t like the idea, but who I am to get in the way of his happiness?
Both what were you thinking when your eyes first
met across the cafeteria?
H: That blondie wanted to get down and dirty with the double H right there in the cafeteria.
L: Oh my God, Hunter. I was not thinking that.
H: (Hunter scoffs) You so was. But seriously, I thought she
was the most beautiful girl I had ever seen in my life.
Ignore the cheese.
L: Real smooth. (Louisa laughs.)
Hunter, how did it feel knowing the girl you wanted didn't sucome to your charms like the rest of the girls?
H: Pissed off. (Louisa glares.) At first. (Hunter corrects.) Then her refusal just made me want her more. and it made me realise that this one was special.
Louisa, if Hunter hadn't stole your affections do you think you would of gone out with Axel?
(Hunter turns his whole body to face Louisa and crosses his arms on a grin.)
L: No. Not all. We’re just friends. Axel doesn’t like me that way.
H: He did, until he hit the sack with Fallon. Didn’t even know he had it in him.
L: Hit the what with Fallon?
H: Never mind, babe. (Hunter winks)
Hunter if Louisa hadn't agreed to go on a date with you, what would you have done next to convince her to give you a chance?
H: (Hunter grins) Honestly? I knew she would say yes. (Louisa nudges Hunter.) I’m kidding. I would’ve probably started to beg like a little bitch.
Louisa, which one of the rouge did you fancy besides
Hunter and why?
(Louisa blushes)
H: You’re blushing? Which one of those motherfuck-
L: Hunter, this is my question. I don’t fancy any of them, but they are all beautiful in their own way.
Hunter what would you have done if Louisa had decided to date one of the other members of Rouge?
H: She wouldn’t. No further comment.
L: (Louisa laughs) Very mature, Hunter.
Louisa was there any jealousy when you would see other girls throw themselves at Hunter including your own sister ?
L: None. I mean, I don’t like it. But I am not a jealous person. Besides, I trust Hunter one hundred percent.
Hunter would you of hooked up with Bree if you hadn't
set your sites on Louisa?
H: Hell, no. That chick is crazy.
L: Hunter, she is still my sister.
H: I still wouldn’t bang her.
Louisa how does hunter make you feel?
L: Alive. Beautiful. He makes me feel cherished, loved and special. What more could I ask for.
Hunter how about you, how does Louisa make you feel?
H: Like a different person. She makes me look at the world differently. She shows me that simple things are what matters in life. I love her more and more each day.
"Excuse me a moment"(Louisa steps out to take a phone call).
Hunter while I have you on your own can you tell us when the time comes do you know how you will ask Louisa to marry you?
H: I…uh…I think about that every day. Because I will marry her. In my mind she is already my wife. But I need it to be special, because she deserves the best. Although, Lou doesn’t like anything fancy, so maybe hill top, under the stars, get down on one knee. Ya know, something like that.
(Louisa steps back in the room a few minutes later)
Hunter you took Louisa to a special spot when you were dealing with some personal stuff and asked her to move in with you. What was running through your mind while waiting for her response?
H: Please say yes. Please, please say yes.
Louisa you seen Hunter go through some dark stuff and because of you he came through the other side. What were you thinking when you seen him going through this?
L: I was thinking about how much I wanted to support him. Be there for him. It is extremely hard to forgive sometimes, but in some circumstances, it is the best way to put your heart at peace. I wanted Hunter to know that. He needed to be at peace instead of holding all his anger inside for the wrong reasons. (Louisa looks at Hunter) He’s come a long way.
Both what are each others most annoying worst and funny habits?
L: His cursing all the time.
H: (Hunter laughs, wrapping his arms around Louisa’s shoulders) Her worse habit is always being right. Like, always.
L: That annoys you?
H: Nah.
Both how are things now with Brody?
(Louisa stays silent for Hunter to answer)
H: He’s slowly coming out of his shell. I think he likes it that Lou, Lou, is living with us now because he needs that family vibe around him. He is still grieving for our dad, but we’re taking it each day at a time.
L: He’s a great kid. He’s our priority right now.
H: (Hunter kisses Louisa’s temple) This is why I love this girl.
So selfless.
Louisa how romantic is hunter and what's the most
romantic thing he’s done for you?
L: He has his moments. The most romantic thing apart from taking me up to the hill top where we had a picnic under the stars, he made a fire on a beach one night and we roasted marshmallows against the sound of the waves.
H: I’m a badass boyfriend. What can I say?
What is next for you both?
H: We’re going to get married, have ten kids, a couple of dogs.
L: Hunter, stop. (Louisa chuckles.) Right now, we’re focusing on getting through college and making sure Brody is okay. The future is bright.
H: Hell yeah it is.
Thank you both for coming along today.
Plus
Guests
Hi Lilly, can you tell us a little about yourself and your work?
Hi Louise! I sure can. I am a British author who likes to write about very naughty, sexy alpha men. It’s almost like an obsession. Who am I kidding, it IS an obsession. I live in Wales with my beautiful daughter. I don’t have any fur babies, but I do dream about having a puppy one day. My hobbies include writing, reading and eating chocolate. Lots of chocolate. I first began writing after I had read Fifty Shades and Grey. Like a lot of authors, there was something about E.L.James’s stories that inspired me to pick up a pen and get some of my own ideas onto paper. My first books that I allowed into the open is a three part erotic romance, about two damaged souls who cannot live without each other. The very alpha, stubborn and extremely hot Mr. Parks, meets his match in feisty Evelyn Banks and they hit it off pretty much right away. Well, not right away because Evelyn denied him time and time again, until she gave in. I mean, who wouldn’t give in to Wade Parks? You’d have to be pretty stupid. My most recent novel that came out January 17th is a college romance. The two leading men from each of my books couldn’t be more different, but what they have in common, is that they treat their women like queens.
Why did you choose to write in your particular field or genre? If you write more than one, how do you balance them?
I wrote new adult/college romance this time because believe it or not it is my favourite genre. I think you can be humorous, and silly and have more fun with a college romance because the characters are still young and can come out with the funniest, wildest remarks. The Parks Series is erotic, so it is more deep, intimate and more detailed. Balancing the two came naturally.
What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
How much I care about the characters. Those who don’t write can’t possibly begin to imagine how it feels to have these people in your head that are talking to you, telling you their story. How real they feel, and how much you want to make them proud in telling their story. (Do I sound mad?)
What is the first book that made you cry?
I think it was a book I had read in primary school. I was about 11. It was called, A Child Called it by Dave Pelzer. It was horrific, yet so inspiring.
What has your experience been like as an indie author? Bruises, highlights, lessons.
My experience has been up and down, as many would agree. Great days and crap days come and go. But I have to remined myself why I am writing in the first place. Highlights will always be those emails or messages and reviews from readers telling me how much they enjoyed my books. It doesn’t get any better than that.
Does a big ego help or hurt writers?
Hmm, maybe a bit of both. Confidence is always good to have, brilliant in fact. But a big ego… it depends how they come across. No one likes a show off.
What is your writing Kryptonite?
Trying to make everything perfect, when nothing is ever perfect. Beating myself up over a paragraph that just isn’t reading right.
Did you ever consider writing under a pseudonym?
I do. Maybe I will one day.
If you could tell your younger writing self anything,
what would it be?
Well, I have only been writing a year, so maybe I could answer this question in a couple more years. Haha.
If you could spend the day with a character from one of your books who would it be and what would you?
Oh, this is so hard! Okay, I am going to rule out the men straight away, because I cannot possibly choose between them. I am going to go with Fallon, from Bad News. Louisa’s roommate. She is crazy and I know we would hit a few pubs and have a night that we would want to forget in the morning.
What was the best money you ever
spent as a writer?
Umm, probably on a blog tour I once did for my third book in The Parks Series because it really helped get the word out.
How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?
I have 7 unpublished/unfished books
right now.
What’s the best way to market your books?
I think Facebook ads are great. Twitter. Asking blogs to help spread the word. The biggest way for anyone to find out about your book, I feel, is from word of mouth.
What’s the most difficult thing about writing characters
from the opposite sex?
I actually find it pretty easy to write in a male perspective. But I do find myself thinking, what do men really think? I have a lot of guy friends I can ask, too, if I am stuck.
What period of your life do you find you write about most often? (child, teenager, young adult)
Mainly new adult.
How do you select the names of your characters?
Sometimes the name just pops into my head. Other times I will look through male and female names on the internet until something jumps out at me.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
I read every one. I feel like if that person has taken the time to write a review, good or bad, then I should have the decency to read it. I used to deal with bad reviews horribly. It would really affect me, now, I sometimes laugh, or as soon as I have read it I don’t give it a second thought. Good reviews have me jumping for joy and smiling like a crazy cat.
Do you hide any secrets in your books that only a few
people will find?
I don’t.
What was your hardest scene to write?
*SPOILER ALERT* It was the scene in Lost in Mr. Parks where Evelyn loses her baby. That was extremely difficult to write. A lot of tears were lost that day.
Do you Google yourself?
Never. Nothing would come up anyway.
Ha ha.
What is your favorite childhood book?
It has to be Elmer the Elephant. Then when I was a little bit older, Carries War by Nina Bawden.
Does your family support your career
as a writer?
100%
If you had to do something differently as a child or teenager to become a better writer as an adult, what would you do?
I think I would have stayed on in college to get my degree in English, but it is never too late.
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
Around four/five months. That is if the characters
are being cooperative.
Do you believe in writer’s block?
Oh yes. I am currently experiencing
it now.
********************
DO NOT READ ANY FURTHER UNLESS YOU HAVE READ BAD NEWS. HUNTER AND LOUISA'S CHARACTER INTERVIEW CONTAINS LOADS OF SPOILERS.
*************************
Hunter & Louisa Interview
Thank you both for joining me today,
how are you both?
H: Could be better.
(Louisa nudges Hunter)
L: We’re both good, thank you for having us.
Hunter you are known for being a player but only those close to you know the truth. Why don’t you set the record straight and put a stop to the rumours?
H: I don’t see the point. Let them talk. I don’t care what they think about me. If those I care about know the real me, then I’m happy.
Louisa you and your sister don't seem as close as sisters should be. Is there a reason are you and Bree are not close?
L: It’s such a shame, isn’t it? I think it is down to her feeling left out. She feels like my dad favours me, which is not true.
H: I would favour you.
L: Hunter, stop. Anyway. I also think it is because she feels like I have betrayed her by sticking by my dad and his decision to move on so quickly with another woman after my mom died. I mean, I didn’t like the idea, but who I am to get in the way of his happiness?
Both what were you thinking when your eyes first
met across the cafeteria?
H: That blondie wanted to get down and dirty with the double H right there in the cafeteria.
L: Oh my God, Hunter. I was not thinking that.
H: (Hunter scoffs) You so was. But seriously, I thought she
was the most beautiful girl I had ever seen in my life.
Ignore the cheese.
L: Real smooth. (Louisa laughs.)
Hunter, how did it feel knowing the girl you wanted didn't sucome to your charms like the rest of the girls?
H: Pissed off. (Louisa glares.) At first. (Hunter corrects.) Then her refusal just made me want her more. and it made me realise that this one was special.
Louisa, if Hunter hadn't stole your affections do you think you would of gone out with Axel?
(Hunter turns his whole body to face Louisa and crosses his arms on a grin.)
L: No. Not all. We’re just friends. Axel doesn’t like me that way.
H: He did, until he hit the sack with Fallon. Didn’t even know he had it in him.
L: Hit the what with Fallon?
H: Never mind, babe. (Hunter winks)
Hunter if Louisa hadn't agreed to go on a date with you, what would you have done next to convince her to give you a chance?
H: (Hunter grins) Honestly? I knew she would say yes. (Louisa nudges Hunter.) I’m kidding. I would’ve probably started to beg like a little bitch.
Louisa, which one of the rouge did you fancy besides
Hunter and why?
(Louisa blushes)
H: You’re blushing? Which one of those motherfuck-
L: Hunter, this is my question. I don’t fancy any of them, but they are all beautiful in their own way.
Hunter what would you have done if Louisa had decided to date one of the other members of Rouge?
H: She wouldn’t. No further comment.
L: (Louisa laughs) Very mature, Hunter.
Louisa was there any jealousy when you would see other girls throw themselves at Hunter including your own sister ?
L: None. I mean, I don’t like it. But I am not a jealous person. Besides, I trust Hunter one hundred percent.
Hunter would you of hooked up with Bree if you hadn't
set your sites on Louisa?
H: Hell, no. That chick is crazy.
L: Hunter, she is still my sister.
H: I still wouldn’t bang her.
Louisa how does hunter make you feel?
L: Alive. Beautiful. He makes me feel cherished, loved and special. What more could I ask for.
Hunter how about you, how does Louisa make you feel?
H: Like a different person. She makes me look at the world differently. She shows me that simple things are what matters in life. I love her more and more each day.
"Excuse me a moment"(Louisa steps out to take a phone call).
Hunter while I have you on your own can you tell us when the time comes do you know how you will ask Louisa to marry you?
H: I…uh…I think about that every day. Because I will marry her. In my mind she is already my wife. But I need it to be special, because she deserves the best. Although, Lou doesn’t like anything fancy, so maybe hill top, under the stars, get down on one knee. Ya know, something like that.
(Louisa steps back in the room a few minutes later)
Hunter you took Louisa to a special spot when you were dealing with some personal stuff and asked her to move in with you. What was running through your mind while waiting for her response?
H: Please say yes. Please, please say yes.
Louisa you seen Hunter go through some dark stuff and because of you he came through the other side. What were you thinking when you seen him going through this?
L: I was thinking about how much I wanted to support him. Be there for him. It is extremely hard to forgive sometimes, but in some circumstances, it is the best way to put your heart at peace. I wanted Hunter to know that. He needed to be at peace instead of holding all his anger inside for the wrong reasons. (Louisa looks at Hunter) He’s come a long way.
Both what are each others most annoying worst and funny habits?
L: His cursing all the time.
H: (Hunter laughs, wrapping his arms around Louisa’s shoulders) Her worse habit is always being right. Like, always.
L: That annoys you?
H: Nah.
Both how are things now with Brody?
(Louisa stays silent for Hunter to answer)
H: He’s slowly coming out of his shell. I think he likes it that Lou, Lou, is living with us now because he needs that family vibe around him. He is still grieving for our dad, but we’re taking it each day at a time.
L: He’s a great kid. He’s our priority right now.
H: (Hunter kisses Louisa’s temple) This is why I love this girl.
So selfless.
Louisa how romantic is hunter and what's the most
romantic thing he’s done for you?
L: He has his moments. The most romantic thing apart from taking me up to the hill top where we had a picnic under the stars, he made a fire on a beach one night and we roasted marshmallows against the sound of the waves.
H: I’m a badass boyfriend. What can I say?
What is next for you both?
H: We’re going to get married, have ten kids, a couple of dogs.
L: Hunter, stop. (Louisa chuckles.) Right now, we’re focusing on getting through college and making sure Brody is okay. The future is bright.
H: Hell yeah it is.
Thank you both for coming along today.
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