Willa Drew Blog

Cozy Weather, Cozy Reads

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 04:56:09 GMT

This November arrived with real drama: Toronto turned into a full snow globe overnight, while San Francisco is drowning in puddles big enough for Pablo to launch himself into… and for Sven to stand there, soaked, questioning all his life choices.

Two coasts, two moods, both perfect for staying inside with a book.

Are you a “snow falling outside the window” reader, a “rain tapping the glass” reader… or simply an “if the weather keeps me inside, I’m reading” reader?

What makes your reading setup irresistible?

The drink? The candle? The pet who insists on supervising? The playlist? The TBR mountain that somehow grows on its own?

Meet the Women Behind Willa Drew

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 04:49:44 GMT

If you’re new from the Secret Santa giveaway — welcome.
If you’ve been with us since the early days — we’re so glad you’re still here.
If you joined us anywhere in between — we’re so lucky to have you.

Pull up a blanket (or a cup of something warm). Here’s a relaxed look into the two writers behind Willa Drew: DL Croisette (aka Willa on the left) and Gala Russ (aka Drew on the right): what makes us tick, how we write, and what makes our books feel the way they feel.

What we’re currently obsessed with in romance

DL:
“From a writing perspective it's second chances. I've always loved the concept of getting a chance to right the mistakes of the past and to me there is a beauty in the honesty of forgiveness.”
Gala:
“Slow, slow, slow burn. The kind of tension where you’re practically begging the characters to finally act on what’s been simmering for chapters.”

What’s sparking our creativity right now

DL:
“Beautiful images. Before I even start writing a scene I ‘see’ my characters in the setting and creating that world is a passion. It comes through in my love of creating our covers, or social media, and now, with my new Cricut, more fun projects. (And there is beauty everywhere, from a droplet of water to a cold winter's day sunset)”
Gala:
“K-dramas. I’ve been fascinated by how they portray attraction: micro-emotions, tension, slow zooms. I’m experimenting with how to translate that emotional fire onto the page to make romance even more unputdownable.”

How we each started writing romance

DL:
“On a dare. A friend of mine had recently finished a romance book and was bored with reading alpha males and weak women. She turned to me and dared me to write a story with a feisty, strong woman. I went home that night and wrote the first 3 chapter so Ruby Red, my debut novel.”
Gala:
“I started in women’s fiction. An editor asked whether my book was romance or women’s fiction, and I realized romance requires a happily ever after! That’s what I wanted for my characters.

But the deeper beginning was translating my mom’s writing after she passed away. That opened the door.”

What we love most about writing together

DL:
“There are so many things and honestly they change depending on the project. For example, I adore that I have a partner to spark ideas with or pull me out of a well when think that idea well is dry, Then on other days, I love that I can be creative on my own and Gala will enthusiastically listen/read the drama I put our characters through and vice versa.”
Gala:
“The moments where we spark ideas back and forth. It feels like improv with a lot of ‘yes, and…’ as the story unfolds between us. Some days it’s pure momentum: one of us throws out a wild idea, the other builds on it, and suddenly we’re off in a direction neither of us would’ve found alone. Other days, it’s simply knowing the other person will catch whatever emotional or creative thread I’m holding.”

Our individual writing quirks

DL:
“I never know how to answer this. I can tell you I'm bound to name a character then spell their name two different ways in the same document. Does that count as a quirk?”
Gala:
“So many! I need to know the character at a soul-level first, so I dig deep to get to know them. I write linearly, without skipping chapters to see how the story develops. My chapters usually start as pure dialogue. Then I build the world around it.”

One thing about us that shows up in our writing

DL:
“Well, I recently came to understand that I have a bartender addiction. Seriously, I think my readers are going to have to make a drinking game out of when in a book a bartender will show up. Readers should also know drama is like sugar to me, so expect a strong dusting of it in my storylines. Lastly, I guess they should be aware the men in my romance books are cinnamon rolls.”
Gala:
“Family trauma, sibling dynamics, complicated parents, and emotional messiness. I read Crime and Punishment by Dostoyevsky and Les Mis at twelve, so I gravitate toward the harder parts of being human: grief, sorrow, struggles that break characters open. At the same time I watch all the soap operas, so my writing became a fusion of big feelings, messy families, and the kind of drama that keeps you turning pages long after you meant to stop.”

What makes a Willa Drew book feel like a Willa Drew book

DL:
“One part international character, one part family drama, two parts found family, all shaken up with angsty, BIG feels and topped with a dollop of drama.”
Gala:
“A core of sweetness, optimism about people, and the belief they can grow, change, and choose good.”

Which characters we relate to the most

DL:
“If forced to choose, I'd say Sarah from Kisses, Lies, & Us. She is our Canadian character (at least until Callum gets his own book) so I get to share some of my world with our readers through her. She's movie obsessed, like me and she was inspired by a wonderful woman in my life.”
Gala:
“I’m a mix of Will from WE Blend and Alek from Not a Fake Chance. The immigrant experience, family wounds, ambition, and wanting to build something positive in the world. Those themes bleed from my personal life onto the page.”

Where you’ll find us when we’re not writing

DL:
“Dreaming of my next trip, planning my next trip or on my next trip.”
Gala:
“Most likely with a cat, a coffee, a spreadsheet, and a backdrop of a K-drama or an audiobook.”

What we love most about indie publishing

DL:
“Well, as an admitted control freak I have to say that the ability to write the stories I want to write without bending to a corporations sales goals make me a very happy indie author.”
Gala:
“The freedom to make mistakes. To iterate. To try, adjust, grow without waiting for permission. I work best in motion.”

Audio Excerpt from Taming the Grumpy Bodyguard by Willa Drew and A. Miracle (Narrated by Jack Graves)

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 21:09:01 GMT

Introducing narrator Jack Graves reading the parts of Sven and Pablo in Taming the Grumpy Bodyguard by Willa Drew and A. Miracle! Take a listen to him reading of a crucial moment from the story.

Own Sven and Pablo's meet cute HERE

About the story:

He’s a grumpy ex-Marine running a private security firm.
I’m just a stray dog looking for my forever human.

Neither of us expected to change each other’s lives.

Sven Anders likes three things: order, solitude, and control. Chaos isn’t on the agenda, especially not the four-legged kind. But when a scrappy terrier sneaks into his office, Sven finds himself saddled with the world’s most determined (and oddly charming) intruder.

This dog isn’t just any stray. He understands German commands, has a talent for sniffing out trouble, and refuses to leave Sven’s side. Naming him feels like the first step toward something Sven swore he’d never have again: family.

Taming the Grumpy Bodyguard is a heartwarming, laugh-out-loud standalone novella about a man, a dog, and the unexpected people who teach him that love is worth every risk. Perfect for fans of grumpy/sunshine romance, found family, and four-legged matchmakers.

It all starts with a line...

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 21:13:29 GMT

Every Willa Drew romance starts with a line that hints at longing, tension, or the quiet ache of what’s to come.

We’re big believers in emotional slow burns, soft-hearted heroes, and heroines who are braver than they feel. If you're looking for your next read (or your next re-read) here’s a quick guide to every book we’ve written so far.

Because it always begins with a line... and then the feelings follow.

And Us Series
Sweeping love stories with emotional depth, slow burns, and characters who find each other through the messiest parts of growing up and growing closer.

Kisses, Lies, & Us
Tr o pes: Friends to lovers, he falls first, slow burn

First line:
“The truth is—I tell lies all the time. What’s one more.”
—Nick Stavros

Passions, Hopes, & Us
Tropes: Fish out of water, family drama, slow burn

First line:
“I cling to the last shreds of my willpower and run my hand over the steamy mirror in the bathroom.”
—Sara Connor

Distance, Love, & Us
Tropes: Long-distance, guaranteed HEA, slow burn

First line:
“It’s official. Sarah and I are a couple.”
—Nick Stavros

What's snow got to do with it??

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 17:34:14 GMT

Snow on and off the page

DL here. This past weekend I lived through a real-life “snowed-in” trope. We had the same amount of snow fall in two days as we did all last winter. There was lots of snow removal required.

This reminded me of when Gala and I were writing this scene with Sarah from Distance, Love, & Us , the last book in our “And Us” series:

“I pull my sleep mask off my eyes. Even from my bed I can see mountains of snow outside. Off in the distance, a tractor blows snow off the driveway. Quite the storm last night. In Toronto. My new reality digs its claws into my shattered heart. Lying in bed without Nick is worse than venturing into the frigid room.”

Note the word tractor there. Originally, I wrote snow blower , but that confused Gala.

Gala had never heard of a snow blower before!

Ah, the joys (or not) of living in an area that doesn’t get much snow. At first, Gala thought this was another one of my Canadianisms (toque, shoulder check, parkade, serviette, washroom, etc.), but I think it's broader in this case. It's a living-in-the-snowism.

Have you ever used a snowblower or are you more of a shovel person? Neither?

Where Our Lore Started

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 18:46:49 GMT

The Shows and Movies That Imacted Who We Are

A common piece of advice authors hear when they worry about having nothing new to add to the vast storytelling landscape is this: Every writer is unique.

The experiences that shape us—our lives, the pop culture we consume, the stories that resonate with us—all influence how we see the world, and that perspective inevitably finds its way into our work. If you gave the same book outline to ten different authors, you’d get ten distinct stories.

But how does this work for co-authors?

At first glance, we might seem pretty different, but we actually have a lot in common. And we recently discovered just how much more we share than we thought, thanks to the social media trend Where My Lore Started.

The idea is simple: You post stills from movies and TV shows that were formative for you—as a person and as a writer. We thought it would be fun, so we hopped on a call, reminisced, and realized that even though we grew up in different countries and belong to different generations, we loved many of the same stories.

Most surprising:

We both obsessed over Santa Barbara, an old 90's soap opera. (We'll ignore we might have been to young to watch the show.) This proves that even after writing together for over four years we can still discover new things about each other.

Most unsurprising:

The actual opera, La Bohème. Opera was one of the first things we realized we had in common. It was obvious to each of us we were meant to be friends when we geeked out over our favs.

In fact, we found so much common ground that we agreed on 20 screen and theater works for our Instagram post.

Then, something even more interesting emerged. Looking at our list, we noticed a pattern—our favorite films and shows aligned perfectly with the themes and tropes that define Willa Drew books. International settings, emotional depth, dramatic twists, angsty conversations, found family, self-discovery, and the slow burn of romance—all the elements we love to write were right there in our personal lore.

Of course, many of these stories fit into more than one category, but here’s how we broke it down:

International
Pride and Prejudice
Leap Year
The Big Blue

Emotional
Heartstopper
Les Misérables

Drama
Gossip Girl
90210
Santa Barbara
Lost

Angst
La Bohème
Normal People

Found Family
Gilmore Girls
Lord of the Rings
Younger

Slow Burn
When Harry Met Sally
10 Things I Hate About You

Self-Discovery
Pretty Woman
Sex Education
The Hunger Games

Because We Have a Crush on Jamie Dornan
Once Upon a Time

For all 20 photos, head over to our Instagram account .

Are any of these on your lore list? What are the movies and TV shows that shaped your current tastes? Email us your top three (or top ten) so we can geek out together.

The Scoop by KW Thomas

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 00:29:25 GMT

August’s Book: The Scoop

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Author: KW Thomas

Character: Cleo Carrigan

Willa Drew: What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?

Cleo: Cleo’s fine, thanks!

WD: Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today.

C: You’re welcome and thanks for having me. Makes a change for me to be on this side of the interview!

WD: Right, fellow reporter here. I’ll have to be on my toes. Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?

C: I’ll never say no to a glass of wine! Or a decent cup of tea, but as a lass from north east England, I’ve got to be honest and say that I’m slightly suspicious of any American who says they can make one.

WD: Better order us two wines then. While we wait, tell me a little about yourself?

C: Well, my name’s Cleo, and I work in radio. I’m 5 foot 3, I have brown curly hair and an insatiable appetite for junk food. Wow, it’s really quite different being the interviewee, isn’t it?

WD: Shoe on the other foot so to speak. Where do you live?

C: I live in London now, but I’m originally from Northumberland, which is the bit of England just below Scotland.

WD: Ah, the county with the most castles in England. See I did my homework.

C: You certainly did. I don’t think even I knew that.

WD: Do you have any jobs or hobbies?

C: I’m an entertainment reporter for a radio station. As for hobbies… does ordering sushi from UberEats count?

WD: Does in my books. I’m proficient in it. On Monday morning, are you excited to go to work, or are you sad?

C: So excited. I still can’t believe this is my life. I love my job – I get to interview amazing musicians and actors, talk to them about their work, find out a bit about them. It’s a bit difficult when the person you’re interviewing really doesn’t want to be there, but I kind of like the challenge of trying to get something out of those people. I’m interviewing Devon Grant soon, though, and I’ve heard he’s a tough nut to crack…

WD: Devon Grant! Now that’s a scoop. I’d love to interview him. Maybe someday… Anyhow this is about you. What are some of your likes and dislikes?

C: I like good food, and crap food, hanging out with my best friend, Michael, and talking to people – that’s why I love my job. I dislike people who don’t do right by their families. I mean how hard is it, to be nice to the people you’re supposed to love?

WD: I agree. Speaking of, tell us about someone important to you?

C: My best friend and his mam mean the world to me. They’re the only family I’ve got, really. My own parents moved to France and I mainly keep up with them via their house renovation Instagram account. Michael and Liz are my everything, and there isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for them.

WD: Sometimes found family is the best. Do you like to cook?

C: God, no. I like to eat, but I’m a terrible cook. Who needs to know how to cook in London anyway?

WD: Benefits of moving to the big city. Okay, you know this is coming, Are you in love?

C: No. I was in love once, but it faded eventually. Doesn’t it always?

WD: I suppose that’s a matter of perspective. Do you have a secret?

C: Everyone’s got secrets, right? No one can know everything about another person. You’re good at these questions, though. What else have you got for me.

WD: Well, since you asked…what is your greatest fear?

C: Losing my best friend and his mother, who practically raised me. They’re the only people who’ve ever really mattered to me.

WD: If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

C: I love my life. I’m not sure I’d change anything. Well, there’s maybe one thing, but it’s kind of complicated. And it’s more someone else’s life, really… *sigh* I wish my best friend wasn’t a paparazzi photographer, for sure. And I wish the reasons he became one didn’t exist, which are the same reasons that… OK, next question!

WD: One professional to another, I’ll give you a pass. Are you happy we know your story?

C: Hmm. I’ve always been the one to tell other people’s stories. I’m not sure how I feel about being the story. But I guess the truth will always come out in the end.

WD: Is there anything you want to say to your fans?

C: I have fans? Oh wow. Erm, hi, I guess? Thanks for being awesome, because I’m sure you’re totally awesome.

WD: Can we look forward to reading more of your story?

C: A little! Although I’ll be quite happy to fade into the background next time, as my best friend hopefully pulls his head out of his backside and sorts his life out.

WD: Let’s hope that happens soon. Cleo, it has been a pleasure interviewing you, but our time is up. You can go back to being the interviewer now. I’ll be tuning into your radio show for your next interview.

If you’d like to read Cleo’s story and find out more about how that interview with Devon Grant goes, connect with KW Thomas on Instagram and Facebook .

About the Book

Secrets make great stories. Unless they’re yours…

Devon Grant might look like a dream on the big screen, but he’s every journalist’s nightmare – his hatred of the press is as legendary as his abs.

Cleo Carrigan is one of the few reporters who’s ever managed to get him to unclench his undeniably attractive jaw long enough to utter more than two consecutive sentences. And apparently that counted as a successful interview, because now he’s chosen her to break the story he tried so desperately to keep hidden.

But there’s no way they could ever be friends, right? Let alone anything more. They must both be imagining this spark between them. Because how could the most fiercely private celebrity on the planet ever trust a journalist …?

Beauty of Corruption by Suki Williams

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 20:58:14 GMT

July’s Book: Beauty of Corruption, Lies and Loves Book 1

Genre: Mafia Romance, Poly

Author: Suki Williams

Character: Blake

Book: Beauty of Corruption, Lies and Loves Book 1

Willa Drew: What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?

Blake: I go by Blake. No need for anything formal like last names or anything. First name is complicated enough for some people.

WD: Blake it is. Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today.

B: Don’t thank me yet, we just started talking. Let’s see how the talks go and then you can let me know if you’re happy about it or not at the end.

WD: I think you’ll find I’m pretty open minded. Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?

B: I’ll take a coffee. Black. Biggest cup you have. All the way to the brim.

WD: Coffee addiction I see. On its way. While we wait, tell me a little about yourself.

B: Now there’s a loaded question. Here’s the long and short of it. I’m the child of one of the most notorious unalivers for the German Family out in Boston. We had a falling out after I came out and I went off on my own. Ended up in Seattle and somehow fell in with the Irish Family there.

Once you’re in the life you can’t ever escape it.

WD: Unalivers. There’s a term I don’t hear everyday. Aside from that family business, do you have any jobs or hobbies?

B: I love cars. Work as a mechanic for a garage in the city. My other hobbies aren’t really for polite company… but let’s just say my father trained me to take his place. And I do it very, very well.

WD: Point taken. What are some of your likes and dislikes?

B: I love coffee, vintage cars, and my privacy. I dislike people who don’t even try to figure out my pronouns and people who try to hurt the ones that I consider mine.

WD: What is your greatest fear?

B: That something will happen to the people that I care about.

WD: Speaking of… are you in love?

B: Yes. I’m lucky to love four incredible people.

WD: Lucky indeed.

B: But don’t tell them that. They don’t need the ego boost.

WD: Do you have siblings?

B: One brother. Even if I don’t see him often he’s one of my best friends. One call and he’d drop everything to come help me.

WD: People you can rely on are important. Do you have any special talents?

B: Pickpocketing. Specifically my boyfriend’s pockets for his car keys. As if I could pass up driving a vintage Jaguar?! He should be better at keeping ahold of his things.

WD: True. I would not be able to resist either. Do you have a secret?

B: Don’t we all? I love secrets. They are always fun to know and pull out when it’s the most beneficial. For myself specifically.

WD: Ah, a fellow collector like me. Do you like to cook?

B: I like being cooked for and eating. But honestly, I don’t mind cooking. Everybody’s got to eat.

WD: If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

B: Oh the age old question… I wouldn’t change anything honestly. Even the horrible parts got me to where I am now. If I change even one single thing, I wouldn’t be the same person. That sounds so damn cliche but I’ll stick to it.

WD: I like it. I like your confidence. Are you happy we know your story?

B: I’m indifferent. You know the parts I want you to know. I keep my cards pretty close to my chest.

WD: More of those secrets. Is there anything you want to say to your fans?

B: There’s more coming. There always will be. It’s always fun checking in with old friends.

WD: Can we look forward to reading more of your story?

B: My duet is done, but my story isn’t. I’ll always be hanging out, even if it’s only in the background helping things unfold.

WD: Oh, seems our time is up. When we started this interview, you were maybe a little skeptical about the process. I truly enjoyed talking to you and I hope you’ll come back sometime for an update. And maybe I can get a ride in that Jag?

If you’d like to read Blake’s story and find out more about the secrets she keeps, connect with Suki Williams on Instagram .

About the Book

The old saying is true: you can never outrun your past, not forever.

A life of crime isn't always black and white. The mafia has a lot of room for gray, except for when it comes to being anything outside of the box. The mafia prefers their women to be Barbies, not non-binary.

When it became clear that I’d never live up to the family’s expectations without losing my identity, the only thing left for me to do was run. Now I have a new name, in a new city, with only one man on my side who knows the truth. I was ready to start over, but life had other ideas.

Unwittingly brought back into the mafia lifestyle by three deadly men with a passion for blood, bondage, and… each other, my past collides with my present, and I don’t know who to trust. Once again, I find myself in a world of gray. Though this time it’s filled with a lot more splashes of crimson than I expected.

I’ve always known the only way out is death. If I’m lucky. Though my men are making me wish that there was another way.

When the game of love is filled with death, lies, and corruption, is it possible for its beauty to survive?

Worth a Shot by Gail Haris

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 02:55:03 GMT

June’s Book: Worth A Shot

Genre: Rom Com with Suspense

Author: Gail Haris

Character: Tristan Goodman

Willa Drew: Hi there. What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?

Tristan: Mr. Goodman, but Tristan is also fine. I don’t do nicknames. Well, except for Tori.

WD: Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today. Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?

T : Coffee, black. But don’t tell Tori. She claims that proves I’m soulless.

WD: And Tori is???

T: My wife. I finally convinced Tori Angel to marry me.

WD: Congratulations. What else should we know about what makes Mr. Goodman tick?

T: I’m co-owner of The K.O. It’s a full restaurant upstairs and the downstairs, uh… let’s call it a sports bar.

WD: I’ll let our listeners read between the lines on that one. Where do you live?

T: Little Rock, Arkansas

WD: Do you have any jobs or hobbies?

T : Cage Fighting

WD: I bet that requires keeping fit?

T: I exercise every day. In my gym, in the cage, and in the bedroom.

WD: Exercise is important. What are some of your likes and dislikes?

T : Likes, my black challenger and Tori. Dislikes, being questioned.

WD: Let’s keep it light then. Do you have siblings??

T: Vincent. My baby brother. The good one out of this bunch. He runs the club with me and my best friend Mark.

WD: Do you have a pet?

T : Yes, my co-owner Mark. He is quite the beast but we keep him –

*Mark yells from the background – I hope Tori brings a date to your funeral! *

I was kidding, jerk. Anyways, um, we have Tori’s white German Shepherd. Guardian. He kept her last name when we got married. Guardian Angel. * groan.*

WD: Do you have any special talents?

T : Ask Tori about those.

WD: Making a note here to interview Tori next. What is your greatest fear?

T: Next question.

WD: If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

T : I don’t believe in regrets and I’ve made everything I wanted to happen, happen. I guess…if I had to name one thing, maybe not agreeing to be interviewed… * chuckles * Nah, Tori talked me into it and if it makes her happy, I’ll gladly do it. Maybe not gladly.

WD: Are you happy we know your story?

T : Sure

WD: Is there anything you want to say to your fans?

T : Life’s too short for anything to be just okay – especially sex. Kidding. Not really. In all seriousness, take risks because it’s worth a shot.

WD: Can we look forward to reading more of your story?

T : Maybe. There’s always more to tell.

WD: That is good news! And even better news, for you not me, we’ve run out of time. Thank you for chatting with me today.

T : IYou’re very welcome. Please let Tori know I behaved.

WD: I will!

If you’d like to read Tristan and Tori’s story and find out what goes on in the downstairs of the K.O., connect with Gail Haris on Instagram .

About the Book

From USA Today Bestselling Author Gail Haris, comes a twist of romantic comedy and suspense. This laugh-out-loud, quirky opposites attract romance is about a crime lord and the woman, who in a strange turn of events, he rescues.

How do I go from getting coffee to waking up in the hospital?

Imagine how alarmed I was to discover the handsome stranger, who I spilled my coffee on, was the reason I was alive...

And also the reason I had found myself in danger.

Apparently, I crossed paths with the so-hot-it-should-be-illegal notorious Tristan Goodman.

To me, it feels as though fate brought us together. But the police—and my fiancé—don’t agree. Still,

I go against all rational thought and visit K.O ., The Knock Out, which is owned by my mysterious hero.

It might be dangerous, but it also might just be worth a shot.

Spellbound by Crystal J. Johnson and Felicity Vaughn

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 16:28:42 GMT

April’s Book: Spellbound

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Author: Crystal J Johnson and Felicity Vaughan

Character: Gemma, Soren, and Archer

Willa Drew: Hi there. Whoa, it's a whole crew here. What should I call you?

Gemma: You can call me Gemma!

Soren: Soren.

Archer: At your service. *Soren smacks him on the arm.* That was a pathetic hit. I guess my boring twin brother would like you to call me by my name… Archer.

WD: Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today. Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?

G : It’s a little early in the day for alcohol. *laughs* I’m always up for some Diet Coke, though!

S: We are fine. Thank you.

A: See, he is boring.

WD: Hmmm, you two look alike, but I’m sensing you're quite different. Tell me a little about yourself?

G : Well, I just inherited my great-aunt’s hotel, the Reynard. I’m so excited to own it. I grew up going there during the summers. I feel a little over my head with everything that’s required to run it. And it doesn’t help that my parents don’t think I can handle it. That might be because I’ve never finished anything I’ve started. But to be fair I have ADHD, and things just get away from me. Sorry, I’m rambling. I just want to continue my family legacy and make my aunt proud.

Archer: Don’t forget us. I mean, we have been spellbound to the hotel for over a hundred years. My brother and I are the reason people want to stay. They hope for an encounter with the paranormal, and we always deliver.

S: Let’s just hope Gemma can deliver as well.

G : Why do you have to be such a jerk?

A: Don’t listen to him, Gem. You got this. Hazel wouldn’t have left the Reynard to you if she didn’t believe in you.

S: We’ll see about that.

WD: Okay, there’s a lot to unpack there. Soren and Archer are spellbound? As in bound by magic?

A: You’re quick. We are all stuck in the hotel.

G : That’s not true. I’m not. I love the town that The Reynard is in, Spelling, Connecticut. It’s a tourist trap for those who want a paranormal experience. Let me tell you, we have the best donuts you will ever eat.

WD: And two ghosts?

A: *groans* We’re not ghosts , we’re—

S: *interrupts* All right, that’s enough. I don’t think we have enough time to get into all that right now.

WD: Got it. And do spirits have any jobs or hobbies?

S: If you count knocking on walls and creeping into hotel rooms to move people’s personal items as a job, then yes.

A: I enjoy helping our new hotel owner.

S: I don’t think making out with Gemma in the hallway is a hobby.

G : Says who? I mean, I don’t have time to do much with taking care of the hotel, so if making out with Soren’s brother can be counted as a hobby, I’m going with that.

WD: Well, a girl has to have some fun. What are some of your likes and dislikes?

A: I like cooking.

G : You’re good at that. I like eating said food.

S: I like playing the piano. And I dislike workplace fraternization and procrastinators.

G : I dislike people who don’t mind their own business.

A: I’m with Gemma, but I’d like to add stick-in-the-mud twin brothers.

WD: I’m sensing some, ahem, underlying tension here. Let’s dive a little deeper. What is your greatest fear?

G : That the Reynard will be taken from me and given to my snotty cousin.

A: I fear being stuck in the hotel forever.

S: *mumbles* Falling in love.

WD: If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

A: That I only get to leave the Reynard for one night a year. Oh, and the years with Betty. God, I hated Betty.

S: I’d face Betty again if it meant others I loved were not hurt by her.

G : How is it possible that you say the sweetest things and turn right around and make me want to scream?

S: Trust me. The feeling is reciprocated. Just stay focused on the reason you are at the hotel and we will be fine.

G : You know what I’d change about my life? I’d want certain people to understand that having ADHD doesn’t mean that I can’t accomplish things. I might take a longer route to finish a task, but it will get done. Especially when it is important.

WD: Good point. We all have our own paths to follow. Tell me, who’s your favourite person in the world?

All Three at Once: Hazel Fox.

G : Eccentric, fun, kind, and loving–there was no one on earth like my great-aunt Hazel.

WD: She sounds like a lovely person. Let’s flip it around. Do you have an archnemesis?

G : My cousin Raven. She thinks the Reynard should have gone to her. She isn’t afraid to do the most despicable things to try and take it away from me.

S: Agreed. She might be the spawn of Satan.

A: She isn’t that bad.

S: Please don’t tell me you forgot about the time she did the thing with the—

Archer: Nope! I remember. You’re right. Evil to the core.

WD: Okay, Raven is on the naughty list. Any secrets you’d like to share?

S: Not only do we have a secret but so do the past owners of the hotel. The question is: can Gemma unveil those secrets?

G : It would be so much easier if you just told me.

S: You have to read the tome, Gemma.

G : Who calls it a tome? You’re such a grandpa.

WD: Hey, you two. Settle down. Back to the interview, If you could cure one disease, which would it be?

All Three at Once: Cancer

G : Especially breast cancer. It is what took Hazel’s life.

WD: Nasty disease. Time for the big question. Are you in love?

G : I might have found my forever during this book. If I chose a brother, I’m not telling you which one. You will have to read to find out.

WD: Well, call me interested. On that note, are you happy we know your story?

G : I am, because it isn’t just my story. It’s Soren and Archer’s and every Fox woman who has owned the Reynard before me. It is my family history. Although there was pain, abuse, and heartbreak, there was also unconditional love, healing, and unbreakable bonds.

S: And magic.

G : There was definitely magic.

WD: Who doesn’t want a little magic in their life? Is there anything you want to say to your fans?

G : I have something I want to say. For everyone, especially women, that saw themselves in my struggles with ADHD, I believe in you. It’s alright to take your time and do things differently. It is alright to feel overwhelmed by your emotions. It’s alright to make mistakes. It was important to me that I be my most authentic self and not hide how my brain processes information. I hope that by sharing who I am that you saw a little of yourself in my story.

WD: Brava! Well said. Can we look forward to reading more of your story?

G : I think my story has found its happily-ever-after, but maybe Soren or Archer will have a little more to share in the future.

A: An entire book about me. How amazing would that be?

S: As amazing as a dumpster fire.

Archer: Better than a snooze fest.

WD: Oh, I think that might be some guests looking to check in, so I guess our time is up. Thanks for sitting down with me today. Good luck reading that tome… I mean book, Gemma.

G : We hope you will visit us at the Reynard Hotel and experience the magic for yourself.

WD: Got any free rooms tonight?

If you’d like to read Gemma, Soren and Archer’s story and find out who it is Gemma falls in love with, connect with Crystal and Felicity on Instagram and TikTok

About the Book

When Gemma Fox inherits the storied Reynard Hotel from her great-aunt, she’s totally unprepared for the responsibility. It’s not the bills or the renovations or the repairs piling up. Or her family’s complete lack of confidence in her ability to manage the hotel. It’s that she’s not alone.

Bound to the hotel are two spirits, Archer and Soren Hyde. Brooding, handsome, immortal–they’ve been haunting the Reynard for generations. And Gemma is now their custodian.

As Gemma fights to keep the hotel from going under, she also finds herself fighting a growing attraction to the brothers. Each offers something different: Archer is impish, fun, sexy and just the distractions she needs. Soren’s arrogant, passionate, sinfully attractive, and driving her crazy. In turn, they each want something from her–one wants freedom, the other wants her heart.

It turns out that Archer and Soren are holding back a secret that might finally see them no longer spellbound. And when the truth comes out about who—and what–they are, their imperfect triangle shatters. With her life and her happiness on the line, and the pressure mounting on all sides, Gemma is forced to make a decision that could change everything–for eternity.

Sushi and Sea Lions by Rachel Corsini

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 03:07:31 GMT

March’s Book: Sushi and Sea Lions

Genre: Women’s Fiction (heavy romance)

Author: Rachel Corsini

Character: Daniela Verdi

Pronouns: she/her

Willa Drew: What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?

Daniela Verdi: Hi. I’m Daniela but everyone calls me Dany. So that’s fine.

WD: Hi Dany. Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today. Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?

D: It’s five o’clock somewhere right? A pinot grigio would be amazing right now.

WD: I like your thinking. One Pinot on the way. While we wait, tell me a little about yourself.

D: This is always a hard question for whatever reason. Anyway, I’m a ballerina…well I was. Whatever, I won’t get into that. I love books. All the classics and of course love stories. Who doesn’t love a good love story? A hot cup of coffee in the morning is the best! I love nothing more than to spend a day at the zoo, looking at the animals and enjoying the scenery. I’m also a little obsessed with my cat Regi. She’s a tuxedo and she has pink toe beans and she is the cutest thing ever. Is this what you wanted to know? I get told I talk a lot sometimes, but I get excited about a lot of things.

WD: You’re doing great. We love all the tea here. Where do you live?

D: I used to live on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, but now I’m stuck here in Queens, where I grew up. I guess it’s not so bad, I just never thought I’d be back here.

WD: Stuck? What brought you back to Queens?

D: I used to be a famous ballerina, but…something happened. I had to give up my place in the city and now, I’m here. It’s not so bad. I’m in grad school and serving pizza to ravenous middle schoolers. Though, I could always ask Ms. Nettie if I could teach at the dance studio. I’m not sure I’m ready for that yet.

WD: Teaching sounds fun. On Monday morning, are you excited to go to work, or are you sad?

D: I started excited to go to school, but now I’m struggling. The work is tough. Being in an education program is no joke! Especially with an English concentration. I have so much work to do all the time, but I guess the end goal is more important?

Don’t get me started on being a pizza waitress. Plus side, I get pizza. Down side? I smell like garlic all the time and now I hate pizza!

WD: Oh, unfortunate side effect of the job. What are some of your other likes and dislikes?

D: I love the sea lions at the zoo! I could watch them for hours. I’ve been known to bark back at them on occasion. There is nothing better than a burger and fries from the local dive bar. I love to dance! I don’t think that’s a surprise, but when music comes on I can’t help but move to the beat. It makes me so happy. I’ve been told I’m a hopeless romantic, but I just think life is beautiful, even when you’re in the middle of the broken parts. It's how you put them back together that counts, right?

WD: That’s a great philosophy. If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

D: I’d be a ballerina again…it was always my dream and I got it and then…it was gone.

WD: Is not being a ballerina your greatest fear?

D: It used to be. But I’ve lived through that already and it didn’t kill me…so I think it would be never being loved. Loving someone is easy but being loved back? That’s hard.

WD: Speaking of love? Is there someone special in your life?

D: Well, there is this guy…he’s my brother’s best friend, Vincent. I never thought that he’d ever be interested in me, but now I’m not so sure. He gives me this look sometimes and I think, maybe? He has a great butt too.

WD: Ooh I like the sound of Vincent. Brother’s best friend you say. That can be tricky.

D: My brother and I have recently gotten closer since I moved back from the city. My brother invited me to his birthday party and Vin was there. We danced together and I dunno…maybe something? He has the dreamiest blue eyes and did I mention the dimples? Okay, I need to stop.

WD: Besides your brother, tell us about someone important to you?

D: Does Regi count? She’s my cat. I’ve had her since I moved into my first apartment. She is the best kitty in the whole world and very particular about who she lets pet her or cuddle her. Hmm, she really likes Vin…

WD: Oh, that’s a good sign. Cats are very smart. And picky. Regi sounds like a cutie. Are you happy we know your story?

D: Yeah! I really never thought I’d be here explaining my life like this, but I hope that you learn something from my story, mostly about finding what you need and learning to love who you are.

WD: Is there anything you want to say to your fans?

D: I have fans? I mean…I know I do. I have ballet fans, but regular me fans? I guess I’d say, thanks for all of your support.

WD: Can we look forward to reading more of your story?

D: There will be a little more of me coming up, but really my best friend Tricia is the star of that book. Maybe you could talk to her sometime?

WD: Ooh, we’ll have to set something up. I think that might be a ravenous mob of youngsters after pizza so I think our time is up. Thanks for chatting with me. Good luck with Grad school. And let us know if you start teaching at the dance school. I might be inspired to take a class.

D: You have to! Dancing is so much fun.

If you’d like to read Dany’s story and find out more about what happen with Vincent, connect with Rachel on Instagram and on her newsletter.

About the Book

When a career-ending injury and a messy breakup send prima ballerina Daniela Verdi back to Queens, New York, she fills her days with countless distractions: meaningless sex, pinot grigio, and video games.

It takes a chance meeting with her brother's best friend, Vincent LaBate, for her to remember who she was before the stage lights and distractions of the Upper West Side. She's convinced that Vincent could never love a girl like her: broken, insecure, and stumbling her way through life. What Daniela didn’t count on is that Vincent is as scarred as she is after divorcing his cheating wife and going through an equally messy child custody fight. Soon enough, old vulnerabilities rear their ugly heads, opening a crack in Daniela’s perfectly imperfect romance.

As Daniela and Vincent's relationship develops, will Daniela learn to accept that a dream life isn't all it's cracked up to be?

The Games that Break Us (Upper Echelon #1) by Dee Garcia

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 05:24:13 GMT

February's Book: The Games that Break Us (Upper Echelon #1)

Genre: mafia, romantic suspense, prison romance (First in Series)
Author: Dee Garcia
Character: Birdy
Pronouns: She/Her

Willa Drew: What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?

Birdy:  My birth name is Benita Adriana Villanueva. Mostly everyone calls me Benni, but on the streets I was La Jefa. Here in prison I go by Birdy. I’ll let you choose.

WD:  Think I’ll go with Birdy. Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today.

B: No biggie. Not gonna lie, though… I’m surprised the Warden allowed an interview, given I just got out of Ad-Seg a few days ago.

WD:  Ad-Seg? Not familiar. Can you explain?

B: Administrative Segregation, otherwise known as “The Hole”. Remember when you were a kid and your mom would put you in timeout for acting like a brat or getting into trouble? Yeah, well, this is the inmate version of timeout. Picture it… tiny cell, all concrete, no windows. A stiff bed, a toilet. That’s all she wrote. And you’re in there until… well, until the guards or the Warden see fit. It’s pure and utter hell.

WD:  Shall I ask the Warden to get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?

B: Ha ha we’re in prison, hun. Ain’t no wine, whiskey, or alcohol for miles. The coffee tastes like dirt, too, so I’d say just stick to water.

WD:  Tell me a little about yourself?

B: Well, I was born and raised in Cuba. Came to the states when I was 13, not so legally or without trauma I should add. There aren’t many opportunities for illegal aliens, though, so my family struggled as much as we did in Cuba. Eventually, my older brother stepped up to provide… I knew what he was doing wasn’t exactly the best choice, but I looked up to him, wanted to be like him. Didn’t take long for me to follow in his footsteps and start running the streets. Only I ended up taking it a few steps further, on a grander scheme, if you will. As you can see, those choices didn’t come without consequences.

WD:  Prison. Right. Where did you live before the state put you up here?

B: The vibrant cultural melting pot better known as Miami, Florida.

WD:  Do you have any jobs or hobbies in here?

B: My current job assignment is laundry. Pays crap, but all the jobs here do. It’s one of the better positions, though. At least I’m not stuck on maintenance or kitchen duty. As for hobbies, I’d say making money, but I’m not exactly securing the bag these days, so we’ll go with playing dominos and catching a few rays during yard time. Amongst other things I probably shouldn’t discuss with you…

WD:  Yes, let keep things…above board as they say. What are some of your likes and dislikes?

B: Likes… hmmm? I’d have to say money. And I mean, who doesn’t? Living paycheck to paycheck isn’t exactly ideal, and let’s face it… it sucks. As for dislikes? Snitches, hands down. Snitches get stitches, friends. Remember that. Also, though… seedy, juiced up prison guards. There’s no shortage of those nasty bastards around here—except for one…

WD:  Sounds like maybe you’ve made a friend? (she says cautiously)

B: Um, yeah… We’ll call him a friend, I guess…

WD:  What’s a day in your life like?

B: Oh, honey, you don’t want me to bore you with that type of monotony, but to give you a basic run down of what my day looks like…. I wake up, get dressed, make my bunk, head to Chow Hall for breakfast, and then depending on the day, I either go straight to work assignment or come to the Block and chill for a bit before going to work. And then after that… it’s like any other day. You have lunch, wrap up the work day, come back, sometimes we get yard time, take a shower, and keep yourself busy until “lights out” which is at 11. And then… we go to sleep… and do it all over again the next day.

WD:   What is your greatest fear?

B: Something happening to my family while I’m stuck in here. Already went through it once. Not looking to do it again.

WD:  Tell me about your family.

B: I have two siblings. My older brother, Tommy, may he rest in peace, and my younger sister, Noely. She’s currently holding down the fort at home and looking after our mom.

WD:   If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

B: I mean, look around you… I’m in prison. I’d definitely not get involved with Ángel and the Upper Echelon. Would’ve spared myself this hell, that’s for sure.

WD:  Are you happy we know your story?

B: I don’t know if happy is the correct word choice here, but I suppose you can call me a cautionary tale.

WD:  Fair enough. Let’s try something different. Are you in love?

B: I plead the fifth.

WD:  Okay. Message received. Do you have an event or people in your past who affect you today?

B: Yes to both. The day we came from Cuba and what transpired during the trip still lives rent free in my mind. And as for people who affect me… Well, I’m sure you can guess who I’m referring to without me having to say as much…

WD:  Is there anything you want to say to your fans?

B: Just that… not everything is what it seems… That’s all.

WD:  Can we look forward to reading more of your story?

B: Yes, you can. Dee is hard at work penning the finale of my story. It definitely won’t be easy to read for some, but I think it’ll prove everything happens for a reason and true love always prevails.

WD:  Oh, I think the Warden is circling. Our time must be up. Thanks for chatting with me today.

B: Thank you for having me. I’m not usually a fan of being grilled considering I get enough of that on the daily, but this was a nice break from my grueling reality. If you have any other questions for me, you can always slide into Dee’s Discord and drop by the D Block channel.

WD:  I’ll do that. Good luck staying out of Ad-Seg.

If you’d like to read Birdy’s story and find out more about what happens in jail, connect with Dee on Instagram and TikTok .

About the Book

Rule #1: Don’t f*ck with la Jefa.

Rule #2: Don’t get caught.

Rule #3, and most importantly: DON’T fall in love with your boss—especially when he’s the faceless, elusive mastermind behind the international and highly covert organization known as the Upper Echelon.

Arcángel might have chosen to forego some of that anonymity when it came to me, but the man still had secrets he refused to share. Secrets that came back to haunt us when he suddenly wanted to whisk me away and rescind the terms of our “no strings attached” relationship for something more.

I considered it, warring between rationality and my heart’s desires.

Until the Feds stepped in and I found myself trapped in tight, shiny cuffs.

Now, I’m paying the price, rotting away at the hands of the judicial system and facing possible deportation after serving his time. After all these years, Ángel should be nothing more than a ghost from my past, and yet he’s ever-present, popping up at the most random and inopportune times.

My heart can’t take much more of this maddening game, but fate seems to have other plans…

Enter Andrés Bala, the new CO who can’t keep his eyes off me. I shouldn’t encourage him, knowing damn well anything between us is considered forbidden, illegal, but there’s this inexplicable pull between us neither one of us can ignore—and being bad always did taste so much sweeter.

The question now is: despite Andrés vowing to wait for me, can he handle la Jefa and all of her baggage outside the confines of her cage, or are we doomed to crumble before I even step foot into freedom?

Nick Stavros from Kisses, Lies, & Us by Willa Drew

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 03:03:59 GMT

December's Book: Kisses, Lies, & Us

Genre: Hidden Identity, Holiday Romance Novella (First in Series)
Author: Willa Drew
Character: Nick Stavros
Pronouns: He/him

A wannabe film student walks into a bar with a fake ID and orders a drink…yes, sometimes my life does feel like a joke.

Take tonight. Abandoned by my dad at a swanky resort on Christmas Eve, I search for a little holiday cheer of my own. Trying an Old Fashioned at the hotel bar might be what I need to reset my lonely night in LA.

Cue Sarah, a beautiful bartender who tells it like it is. She’s a struggling screenwriter, and I’m about to typecast myself as the hero in her story.

Only this once I decide to actually be myself—except for that whole fake ID part. She must like me for me because next thing I know, she invites me to a party.

We laugh. We talk. We kiss.

Sarah might be the only person who sees the real me… but that doesn’t mean she knows the whole truth about who she’s falling for.

If you like secret identity, movies, soulmates, friends-to-lovers, and a right person wrong time new adult romance, Kisses, Lies, & Us, Book One in the Falling for the Liar Series is for you. Each of the five stories in the series revolves around a major holiday throughout one year in the lives of Sarah and Nick and offers a rollercoaster of emotions and adventures inside and outside the US.

Willa Drew: What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?

Nick: People in Chicago like to call me Nicky, but I prefer Nick. When I more to LA, I’ll only allow my mom to call me Nicky.

WD: Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today.

N: Perfect practice. I plan to give out many of these. I have a few minutes before my flight.

WD: Can I get you something to drink? We have a fully stocked bar here and I’m buying.

N: Is this a trick question? Are you going to ask me for my ID next? No need. I’m nineteen. I’ll stick with a Coke.

WD: Tell me a little about yourself?

N: I’m in my last year of high school, played left defense in the Chicago’s Young Americans team, good with a camera, and plan to study film in UCLA next year. Think of me as a future director of your favorite film.

WD: Where do you live?

N: LA born, but after my parents split up when I was nine, Mom moved us to Chicago to live with her family. Not looking forward to putting my parka back on when I get back there. LA Christmases might not have snow but at least they’re warm.

WD: Do you have any jobs or hobbies?

N: Does music count? (points to his headphones.) Never go anywhere without these.

But for the most part, my job is my hobby. Movies, cameras, thinking about a way to present something on the screen, that’s how I spend all my days. For now, my ex-girlfriend’s dad’s camera shop lets me do all that and get paid but I’ll have to figure out a place to work when I move to LA for school.

WD: What are some of your likes and dislikes?

N: Likes? Easy. Movies: watching them, learning about the directors, the screenwriting, the sets. I recently met a screenwriter and we brainstormed some scenes for her manuscript while eating tacos. LA tacos are definitely on my like list now. Dislikes. Spicy food. My mouth burns even thinking about spices. Mom raise us on lots of traditional Greek food, and I haven’t ventured much beyond.

WD: What is your greatest fear?

N: Not seeing this girl, Sarah, I met on Christmas Eve in LA again.

WD: Sounds like there’s a story there...

N: Sarah is… amazing. I’ve never met anyone like her. She’s an aspiring screenwriter. She’s the one I was working on a script with. She took me to see the view from Griffith Park.

WD: If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

N: Tell the whole truth. Less hiding. Not give Sarah a fake name when I met her.

WD: A fake name? Care to explain?

N: See, my friends gave me this fake ID for my birthday. As a joke of course. I wasn’t going to use it, but with my dad leaving me alone while he was schmoozing some business associates on Christmas Eve at this swanky bar, I had to entertain myself. A nineteen-year-old can’t have much at a bar, so I used my birthday gift. Sarah happened to be my bartender. When she invited me to her party, it was a perfect way to spend the evening in LA, but at that point she knew me as Shawn Rosstav.

WD: You didn’t correct her?

N: We talked all night, and I wanted to tell her, but then Dad interrupted us, and I ran out of time.

WD: Are you happy we know your story?

N: That’s the thing. No one really knows my story. But they will because Sarah has to know who I am. I’ll tell her first chance I get.

WD: Is there anything you want to say to your fans?

N: You mean the choir I filmed last semester? I guess thanks for the gig. I used the documentary as my entry into the Starlight Foundations Future Filmmakers Competition. If I get into the competition I can move back to LA early and win money for my tuition.

WD: Can we look forward to reading more of your story?

N: I have so much more to tell. I’m heading back to LA in February.

WD: Oh, looks like we have run out of time thanks for chatting with me today. And good luck explaining to Sarah your little…mishap.

N: I’ll find her and explain that even though I lied, I’m not a liar. She’ll have to see I didn’t mean to deceive her. She has to believe me.

Click here to read Nick’s story, Kisses, Lies, & Us , the first book in the Falling for The Liar series .

If you’d like to get behind the scene’s goodies, find Willa Drew on all the socials including Facebook and Instagram , or subscribe to our newsletter on our homepage.

Audio Excerpt from Kisses, Lies, and Us by Willa Drew (Narrated by Teri Schnaubelt)

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 19:43:15 GMT

Award wining narrator Teri Schnaubelt reads a snippet of Kisses, Lies and Us! Take a listen to her reading of a crucial moment from the story.

Own Sarah and Nick's meet cute HERE

About the story:

A wannabe film student walks into a bar with a fake ID and orders a drink…yes, sometimes my life does feel like a joke.

Take tonight. Abandoned by my dad at a swanky resort on Christmas Eve, I search for a little holiday cheer of my own. Trying an Old Fashioned at the hotel bar might be what I need to reset my lonely night in LA.

Cue Sarah, a beautiful bartender who tells it like it is. She’s a struggling screenwriter, and I’m about to typecast myself as the hero in her story.

Only this once I decide to actually be myself—except for that whole fake ID part. She must like me for me because next thing I know, she invites me to a party.

We laugh. We talk. We kiss.

Sarah might be the only person who sees the real me… but that doesn’t mean she knows the whole truth about who she’s falling for.

If you like secret identity, movies, soulmates, friends-to-lovers, and a right person wrong time new adult romance, Kisses, Lies, & Us, Book One in the Falling for the Liar Series is for you.

Each of the five stories in the series revolves around a major holiday throughout one year in the lives of Sarah and Nick and offers a rollercoaster of emotions and adventures inside and outside the US.

Wil Peters from WE Blend by Willa Drew

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 00:07:29 GMT

October's Book: WE Blend

Genre: A Rock Star Romance
Author: Willa Drew
Character: Wil Peters
Pronouns: He/him

WD: Hi there. What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?
Wil: My passport says Wilhelm Peters but everyone calls me Wil.

WD: Wil it is. Welcome, and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today.
Wil: Hey. Always up for a chat.

WD: Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?
Wil: Got a beer back there? I’d prefer a Pilsner but I’ll take anything.

WD: One Pilsner on the way. While we wait, tell me a little about yourself.
Wil: Me? Regular bloke. Nineteen. Just finished my first year of uni, am on the rowing team, and like to DJ at clubs: gets me some extra cash—to spend on the… you know.

WD: We don’t. Care to elaborate?
Wil: I don’t kiss and tell. Use your imagination.

WD: Maybe later. How about an easier question? Where d’you live?
Wil: LA. But I’m from Bremen, in northwest Germany. (holds up his hands) Surprise.

WD: What brings you to LA?
Wil: Luck. I’m hanging on the UCLA campus thanks to the Starlight Foundation. I landed a spot in their Future Filmmakers annual competition. D’you know it?

WD: Is that the one where amateurs from around the world compete in teams to make a short film and get a chance to go on to work in the movie business?
Wil: That’s the one. I’m the sound engineer on the Blue Team. (Wil leans in and winks) And we’re gonna win.

WD: Good to know. Do you have any hobbies?
Wil: Sure. I love music. Both on and off stage; I’ve even tried my hand at writing a few songs here and there, but DJing is more my speed. There’s something about mixing sound together, blending beats. Sound editing is stable as a career and the money is good. Plus, I know I’m brilliant at it.

WD: I have no doubt. What are some of your likes and dislikes?
Wil: Keeping things simple. Can’t say no to a good party, a couple beers with my friends—normal stuff. If I fancy you, I make it easy: we hang out, no strings, go our separate ways in the morning. No fuss, no muss.

I don’t like… complications.

WD: Complications? Is that your greatest fear?
Wil: Greatest? I wish. Truth? Losing my mum. She’s been getting sicker, and I worry about her. If I only had more money, so she didn’t have to think about that at least. Bloody money rules the world, doesn’t it? Plays with people’s lives. So many could be saved if money wasn’t a scarce resource, because of the rich jerks hogging it for their jets and million-dollar mansions in Malibu.

WD: Malibu? Sounds pretty specific. What if you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
Wil: Is this an interview or a therapy session? I’ll have to come up with something like not growing up without a father. Mine bailed before I was born, and my mum refuses to talk about the loser.

WD: Do you have siblings?
Wil: Nope. Only child. Mum says after me there was no need to have any more kids. Guess that makes me perfect.

WD: Liking the self confidence there. Let’s switch gears. Do you have a girlfriend?
Wil: I don’t the girlfriend thing.

WD: Do you have a secret?
Wil: Who doesn’t? And before you ask, not telling you. If it ever comes out, you will know. The whole bloody world will know.

WD: Is there anything you want to say to your fans?
Wil: Let’s go grab a beer? Follow me on insta @DJStoneHelm? Come see El and me perform at the Devil’s Martini every Saturday at 8pm. We have a great set list.

WD: It’s in my calendar. Speaking of, our time is up. Thanks, Wil, for chatting with me today. Hope you’ll come back soon and let us know how that competition goes.
Wil: You got it. Sure you don’t want to go for a beer?

If you’d like to read Wil’s story or get behind the scene’s goodies, find Willa Drew on all the socials including Facebook and Instagram .

About the Book:

Stage name. Secret plans. Real love.

Escaping the shadow of my famous rock-star step-father… and the paparazzi, is how I find myself microphone-in-hand at a bar off campus wearing a disguise and my heart on my sleeve.

I just want to sing. I need melodies like I need air to breathe. Music isn’t just some hobby: it’s my everything. And from the moment Wil steps on that stage next to me, I know my life won’t ever be the same.

Our connection is instant. We want each other almost as much as we want the money. He’s in the States on scholarship, and I’m trying to make my way in the industry. We forge an alliance, not knowing the secrets we both keep.

Even tangled in a duet of lies, we make sense . . . we blend. Together, we could have it all. Or lose our hearts.

WE Blend is the first full-length romance in the WE Series about El and Wil . If you enjoy reading about music and forced partnerships, all mixed with a bit of international flair, this friends-to-lovers slow burn romance is for you.

Roselyn Bellmond from A Forest of Stolen Memories by Callie Thomas

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 01:55:59 GMT

Willa Drew: What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?
Roselyn Bellmond: The prince calls me Roselyn and Cedrick calls me Red, but I’d prefer Rose.

WD: Rose it is. Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today. Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?
R: Oh, no thank you. I can’t stay long.

WD: Okay, let’s get this interview started then. Tell me a little about yourself.
R: I wish I could…it seems the Sorcerer has stolen my memories. That’s why I’m in such a rush–I’m trying to get them back.

WD: Well, that is different. Can you remember anything at all?
R: Hmm, the first memory I had was in the Kingdom of Cadell. I came to during my wedding to—you won’t believe it—but a prince. Me? A princess? It doesn’t feel right. How is it possible when I feel more at home in Mistbrooke Forest than do in a castle?

WD: : At your wedding? Did you marry the prince?
R: No, thank goodness. It was a close call, but I escaped the prince in time.

WD: If you left the prince, then are you alone? Or is someone helping you?
R: The only person I know right now is Cedrick. He frustrates me until I want to scream, but really, he’s all I have. He saved me when he didn’t have to…I won’t forget that.

WD: Okay, I’m liking Cedrick. What have you discovered so far? Like do you have any special talents?
R: When I sing…it’s like I can communicate with the creatures in the forest. Is that normal?

WD: Not where I come from, but I think Mistbrooke might be a bit different from my part of town. How do you know you can talk to animals?
R: There is a little yellow bird that follows me around. He likes to sing with me.

WD: That’s nice. Any other things you’ve figured out?
R: Yes! I discovered I can sew. Did you see? I sewed Cedrick’s old tunic so it could fit me. I could get used to not wearing a corset.

WD: Corsets can be a pain. Anything else you dislike?
R: I dislike it when I ask someone a question and they answer in riddles. Why can’t people say what they mean?

WD: Don’t like riddles much myself. What is your greatest fear?
R: The Sorcerer finding me. I don’t know what I’ve done to anger him, but he’s the one that cursed me.

WD: That’s fair. I’m a bit afraid of him myself. If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
R: To break this curse so that I could have my memories back…sigh.

WD: Yes. Absolutely. Break the curse. Wonder what the secret to breaking it is?
R: Wish I knew. But something tells me Cedrick has a big secret, and he’s not sharing.

WD: So he rescues you but is hiding something. There is definitely a story there
R: You know my story?? Tell me, please! It’s so frustrating to not even know my favorite color.

WD: Sorry, right. This must be very confusing for you. Is there anything you want to say to your fans?
R: Fans? Like I use with a ballgown? Hahaha! That’s funny. Me talking to my fan.

WD: We have gotten a bit off track. Can we look forward to reading more of your story?
R: Oh, you mean you will help me find my memories? Thank you so much!

Cedrick: Red! Where have you been? …and who is this?
R: Cedrick! I was on my way to catch up with you when I ran into–

C: *whispers* You can’t just talk to strangers. We don’t know them.
R: *whispers back* They have been very nice to me. They even offered me a refreshment and told me a joke about a fan. Why are you giving me a face? Remember, I didn’t know you when we met yesterday.
C: *whispers* Yes, that’s the point. You can’t go around trusting random people. We are in enough trouble as it is. You’re going to get us both killed. Now, let’s go.

R: Ugh, that man. He means well in his own way, but comes across harshly sometimes. Yesterday, he rescued me and has been looking out for me ever since.
C: Red!
R: I have to go. Thank you for your kindness and generosity. Maybe I will see you again soon?

WD: I certainly hope so. Drop by anytime and give us an update. And she’s gone. That Cedrick is an interesting fellow. Maybe I can snag him for an interview next. Get some straight answers for Rose.

If you’d like to read Rose’s story and find out if she gets her memories back, connect with Callie on Instagram or Facebook

Melodie “El” Rockerby from WE Blend By Willa Drew

Sat, 03 Sep 2022 16:43:59 GMT

Willa Drew: Hi there. What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?
Melodie "El" Rockerby: Well, my parents named me Melodie. But I prefer the world knows me as El.

WD: Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today.
E: (Smiles) Thank you for not involving my parents. Doing an interview without them is a wish come true.

WD: Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?
E: Can I get a sparkling water with watermelon juice?

WD: Don't have that here, but I’ll ask the kitchen. In the meantime, tell me a little about yourself.
E: Haven't you read my previous interviews?

WD: I've done my prep work, yes.
E: What do they say about me?

WD: Your mother is the world famous opera singer Sophia Vella, your father—
E: Papa, I called him Papa, it's a Maltese thing.

WD: Okay, your papa was an opera singer as well.
E: The best in the world.

WD: Definitely. The world of opera grieved his death alongside you and your mother.
E: No comment.

WD: Right. I understand. And of course, we all know your stepdad and famous rock star Bill Rockerby, or Rocker to the world.
E: You see, you know it all already. Nothing to add.

WD: But that was about your parents, not you.
E: What else would you like to know?

WD: You live in Malibu. Are you a native Californian?

E: Born here, but I grew up travelling with my Mama and Papa touring around the world. But our home base has always been in LA.

WD: Now that you're eighteen, what are your dreams? Are you going to college? Or do you have the singing bug too?
E: What you’re really asking is can I sing? With famous parents who possess such talent, did the apple fall far from the tree? Yes, I sing. I also play the piano, guitar, and can bang out a rhythm on the drums.

WD: What are some of your likes?
E: I like running, cappuccinos, butter tarts, and the truth. Honesty. When you grow up in a world like mine, it's hard to tell if people are your...friend because they like you or because they want something from you.

WD: Hmm. That would suck. How about dislikes?
E: I don’t like people who make assumptions about me. I’ve lived my whole life in the spotlight but that doesn’t mean you know me.

WD: I’d like to get to know the real you. What’s a day in your life like?
E: Well, I recently started working at Rocker Inc with my dad. No, I’m not cutting an album. I’m in the back office learning the ropes. After work I usually go for a long run or see…friends.

WD: Let's dig deeper. What is your greatest fear?
E: (Reaches her hand up and curls a strand of hair around her finger.) I guess disappointing the ones I love.

WD: Tell us about someone important to you?
E: My parents, you know them. My cousins Zoe and Bailey. My bodyguard Sven. Is that weird? Scratch that last one. People will think I’m lonely or something.

WD: If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
E: (Laughs nervously) I’d like to go to a keg party like a normal teen. Being famous by proxy has the paparazzi following me, but it’s like I’m paying the price for my parents’ lifestyle and can’t do what I want. Granted I'm also rich by proxy, but is that really worth it?

WD: I can't imagine what it's like to constantly be in the spotlight. I guess your distinct ...hairstyle makes you pretty identifiable.
E: (Plays with the white strand in her hair again.) Yup. I stand out.

WD: If you could have done one thing differently, what would it be?
E: Not hurt my hand in England. (Holds up a hand wrapped in a splint.) Does that count? You have no idea what a pain in the butt it is. The guitarist I had to hire, Wil, is so full of himself, but he has talent. And we sound great together. Silver lining, and all that. You still coming to Devil's Martini on Saturday to hear us?

WD: 8 pm. On my calendar. Wouldn't miss it. Are you happy we know your story?
E: What makes you think you know my story? You know a story. One that’s been carefully crafted by my parents and their publicists. Perhaps one day you’ll know the real me.

WD: I'd love that. Is there anything you want to say to your fans?
E: (Looks directly into the camera) Thank you. You inspire me to keep going, keep trying, to follow my passion.

WD: Looks like our time is up. How was it to have your first solo interview?

E: Something I can get used to.

If you’d like to read El’s story and find out more about who's playing guitar for her while her hand heals, check out cool pics etc. on Instagram or join our Facebook group .

Interview with Phantom from Phantom By Greer Rivers

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:34:43 GMT

Willa Drew: What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?

Sol Bordeaux, Phantom of the French Quarter, Demon of Music: My name is Sol Bordeaux, but the people in my city call me the Phantom of the French Quarter. My pretty little muse calls me her Demon of Music. But with you? Phantom will do.

WD: Phantom it is. I thank you for agreeing to talk to us today.

P: Let’s get this over with. I have a Chatelain man to “question” in my dungeon.

WD: Oh. Okay. Before we start, can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?

P: A Sazerac in a rocks glass. If you don’t have Peychaud’s bitters, forget it.

WD: A man who knows what he likes. While we wait, tell me a little about yourself?

P: The only thing you need to know about me is that my justice is fair. Don’t cross me or mine and never touch ma jolie belle muse, or you’ll be on the receiving end of my wrath. Other than that, I suppose it’s important to know that I’ll never trust anyone who follows the rival family, the Chatelains. Oh, and you’ll never see me without my skull mask.

WD: You’re the first masked character I’ve interviewed and I’ve traveled all over the world. By the way, where do you live?
P: My twin brother and I rule New Orleans, Louisiana, the greatest city in the world and America’s first opera city. I reside underneath the New French Opera House on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter, within my great-grandfather’s Prohibition tunnels and my underground apartment.

WD: A twin brother. Tell me more.
P: Ben and I rule this town. His family is a dream I’ve always craved, but have never been able to accomplish since my fate was decided for me at fifteen by a rival family.

WD: Ah, are those the Chatelains?
P: Yes. The Chatelain family has been a thorn in the Bordeaux family’s side for nearly a century.

WD: They sound… unpleasant. When not ruling New Orleans from below, do you have any jobs or hobbies?
P: My muse and my music are my passion. Protecting this city and my family is my calling.

WD: What are some of your likes and dislikes?
P: Likes? Music, beignets, travel, family. Dislikes? Anything the Chatelains have their dirty hands in.

WD: Any dreams or goals you could share with us?
P: I dream of traveling, but I could never emerge from the darkness without my skull mask. People can never find out what the Chatelains did to me all those years ago. The Chatelains can never believe they’ve won.

WD: Is that your greatest fear?
P: Hardly. To lose my muse, Scarlett Day, to the darkness in her mind or to Rand Chatelain is more pressing.

WD: Is this the jolie belle muse you mentioned?
P: Yes. My muse, Scarlett, is a senior opera student at my family’s music conservatory college. She is pure innocence and sweetness on the outside, just like the beignets she craves. But inside, her dark madness sings to mine.

WD: Sounds like you’re someone who might be the one to understand her.
P: I understand her more than I understand myself. I’m the only one who has seen her at her darkest, but she can’t know that yet.

WD: If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
P: The fact that even one Chatelain exists in my city.

WD: If you could go back in time for one day, where would you go?
P: I would never have left my home in the middle of the night at fifteen. If I hadn’t been so reckless, my father would still be alive.

WD: Are you happy we know your story?
P: My story is of no consequence. I only wish for my Scarlett to thrive in the spotlight she deserves.

WD: Is there anything you want to say to your fans?
P: The Phantom of the French Quarter has no fans, only shadows, the Bordeaux followers who obey my command. To them, I say the words inscribed on my inimitable father’s above-ground tomb: La vie est une grande mascarade, alors laissez les bons temps rouler.

Life is one big masquerade, so let the good times roll. But in French, of course.

WD: Can we look forward to reading more of your story?
P: If you wish. I’ll be stalking my pretty little muse either way.

WD: Oh, is that the alarm? Time has flown by with you Phantom. I appreciate you talking with us today and hope we get another chance in the future.
P: It was your pleasure, I’m sure. Now I must go teach a traitor a lesson. Don’t worry, he’ll have a choice: confess, swim, or fight.

WD: Not sure what I’m rooting for there.

If you’d like to read Phantom’s story and find out more about what happens with Scarlett, connect with Greer by signing up for her newsletter or joining

Ali Stinson from Ruby Red – A Romance By D. L. Croisette

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:33:38 GMT

Willa Drew: I can’t believe I’m talking to the Alexandria. Such a pleasure to meet you in person.
Ali Stinson: Actually, I prefer Ali. Never been a fan of that name.

WD: Okay, let me try this again. Nice to meet you, Ali. Thanks for taking the time to talk to us.
A: It's a pleasure to be here.

WD: Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?
A: A lemon vodka martini, please.

WD: Tell me a little about yourself.
A: Well, not sure what I can tell you that hasn’t already been printed on Page Six. My name is Ali Stinson. I'm 24 years old, recently divorced and currently loving the single life.

WD: Where do you live?
A: I live in sunny California in the U.S. Well, it's sunny most of the time. I have a house in the hills. I also like to hang out at my friend Brenda's resort. Her and her husband own The Diamond Club and they know how to respect a person's privacy.

WD: Must be nice having a friend who owns a fancy resort.
A: It has its perks.

WD: Do you have any jobs or hobbies?
A: No actual job. I do help out with the Liberty for All Foundation. Are you familiar with the charity? They aim to help the homeless get back on their feet by providing temporary shelter, job training and counselling.

WD: Sounds like a good cause. What are some of your likes and dislikes?
A: I dislike cruelty - to people or animals. People who abuse their power annoy me, especially if it's at the cost of someone else. But let’s talk about the good stuff. I like fashion, in fact I just discovered this up-and-coming designer - Jonathon Sparks - you are going to want to watch him. I also have a particular fondness for bartenders - well, one bartender in particular.

WD: Are you in love?
A: With Sam’s martini making skills? You bet. But he’s more than that. He’s kind and cute and smart and sexy. A great listener. A great guy. But love? I don’t do love. I tried that with my marriage and failed.

WD: Sam sounds like he might be worth the risk. Aside from falling in love, what is your greatest fear?
A: Wow, this got personal really quick. You journalists do like to dig for gossip. I guess I fear not doing enough in this world. Not being able to make a difference in my time on this earth.

WD: If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
A: I would love to have a big family. Being an only child and not very close to my parents, it can be a bit lonely. I lost a lot of my married friends when I divorced Jack Blackhorne - yes, that Blackhorne - but it's their loss. So, I'm on my own a lot these days.

WD: Do you have an archnemesis?
A: Don't we all. My ex-frenemy Kate is mine. We used to run in the same circle, had the same set of friends. But somehow we were always pitted against each other. Personally, I think it was more about her husband. He seemed to be in some kind of competition with my ex-husband, Jack. All seems so petty to me.

WD: I agree. The world has bigger problems than measuring…well we don’t need to go there. Do you have a secret?
A: Nice try. Not spilling my secrets for you to print.

WD: What if we talk off the record. Just us girls.
A: Ok – But I better not read about this tomorrow. I just found out the firm that has been handling the money I got from my divorce has "misplaced" all my funds. I have this big charity event coming up and I don't even have the cash to fill up my car with gas.

WD: That's not good. How are you going to make ends meet?
A: That's such a funny phrase. I'll figure something out.

WD: I have confidence you will. A few more questions. If you could go back in time for one day, where would you go?
A: I'd go back to my wedding day and tell myself not to marry Jack Blackhorne. My life would be so much better for it. In a way. Maybe sometimes you have to go through these things to truly appreciate something special or someone special when they show up in your life.

WD: I think you might be right. With that in mind, are you happy we know your story?
A: Yes. If my tale can help one person understand that not everything that glitters is gold and that asking for help can only make you stronger, then it was a story worth telling.

WD: I agree. For those fans that are reading your book, is there anything you want to say to them?
A: You have all been so amazing. A little while ago, I didn't think anyone really cared. But you proved me wrong, and I really appreciate you and your support.

WD: Can we look forward to reading more of your story?
A: You bet. I have a lot more to tell you. I know Sam has something to tell me, some secret of his own, and I’m confident he will. As soon as he trusts me.

WD: Yikes, look at the time. I've overstayed my welcome. Thanks Ali for talking to us today.
A: That's it? Well, this was a lot more fun than the usual paparazzi grilling.

WD: Glad to hear that. Maybe you’ll come back again and give us an update on the Sam situation.
A: Maybe.

If you’d like to read Ali’s story and find out if Sam spills his secret, connect with D.L. Croisette on Instagram or in her Facebook Croisette Crew Group .

Elizabeth Martin from Elizabeth By Estelle Pettersen

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:32:24 GMT

Willa Drew: Hi there. What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?
Elizabeth Martin: You can call me Elizabeth, or Beth. I’m not a fan of Lizzy, Lizzie, or Liz.

WD: Nice to meet you Elizabeth. Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today.
E: Thank you for inviting me.

WD: Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?
E: A cuppa tea will do, thanks.

WD: Tell me a little about yourself?
E: Ah, it’s a little strange to be interviewed when I usually do the interviewing. I’m a reporter for the Maranoa Herald, a rural Australian newspaper in Bandara, out in western Queensland, Australia.

WD: Oh, I best be on my toes then.
E: Naw, you’re right, mate. It's just us girls chatting here, right?

I’m originally from Brisbane, so I was a city girl for a long time until I moved to Bandara for work. I have to admit, the country wasn’t my cuppa tea and I felt like a fish out of water at the start, but I managed to settle and make new friends. My colleagues at work, except for Flo Payne who’s a bloody pain in the arse, are a fun bunch - Savannah Bishop is a ripper of a boss and a good friend.

I’m straightforward and if I don’t like someone, I don’t hide it. Most people are pretty good, though. I was engaged to my university sweetheart Paul Ricci, but things changed and we don’t have much in common these days.

WD: Where on earth is Bandara?
E: It’s out in the sticks past Roma and Mitchell and on the way to Cunnamulla along the Warrego Highway in western Queensland, Australia. It’s cattle country, very different to the coastal city.

WD: So a city girl who’s found a home in the country?
E: You got it.

WD: Do you have any jobs or hobbies?
E: I’m a senior journalist - I fought my way in an industry that is male-dominated and still sexist. I won’t go into details, but I’ve got plenty of stories to yarn about, maybe another time. I enjoy photography and hope to do more of it one day, as I don’t plan on being a journalist forever. My goal for now is to become editor of the Maranoa Herald.

WD: Editor. That sounds fantastic. What are some of your likes and dislikes?
E: I’ll start with dislikes first. I’m no fan of snakes or big, furry spiders. I’ll be honest, there’s a bunch of small-minded idiots I’ve come across in my career - people who make life difficult for others, but I tend to ignore them. If they bother me, I’ll bite back.
As for what I like, a handsome fellow by the name of Keith Starling took me to his farm, Starling Homestead. It was an oasis or a piece of paradise in the middle of nowhere. The birds, trees, stables, and rose bushes at the front of his home. Now, I love roses and the ones he has are stunning. I spend time with Winnie, his Australian Kelpie, and I’ll admit, I’m a dog lover. I’m not so fond of cats - I don’t get much interaction from them.

WD: Ah, we won’t get into the cat vs dog debate. Tell me, what is your greatest fear?
E: I was afraid of falling in love with Keith Starling. What if he didn’t feel the same way about me? I could see spending the rest of my life with him when we met, but he was hard to read. Even then, he was a friendly guy who cared for his community, so I worried he saw me as nothing more than a friend. I didn’t want to make a fool of myself, but luckily, I reminded myself that life’s short, so I showed him some love…maybe sealed my feelings with a kiss.

WD: Ah, so you are in love…
E: Yes, I’m madly and deeply in love with Keith Starling. And was pretty soon after I met him. I just needed to show him.

WD: Was Keith the reason you broke off the engagement with Paul?
E: No. Paul and I had issues before I met Keith, and Keith helped me see my relationship with my ex-fiance for what it was.

WD: Let’s leave the men behind. Do you have siblings?
E: Not that I know of, but I might. I never met my father.

WD: Oh my, that must be difficult. Have you ever tried to find him? Sorry, if that is too personal, you don’t have to answer it.
E: It’s all good. Mum fell preggers when she was at uni. My biological father chooked off long before I was born.

WD: That’s your father’s loss, in opinion. Do you have an archnemesis?
E: There was a police officer in town, his name is Darren Dodson. I couldn’t stand him - he used his power to harass people. The worst thing the town could ever have. He was a sex offender.

I hope karma bit him back.

WD: I hope so too. If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
E: I would have come out to Bandara sooner if I’d known there were hot studs like Keith Starling. The first time I saw him coach his football team, the Bandara Bulldogs, and he wore shorts that showed off his bum. Oops, that’s an honest confession. Alright, am I turning red yet?

WD: Just a little pink. And it works for you. Are you happy we know your story?
E: I’m happy to share my story, and I hope it will encourage readers to dare to be different, dare to be bold, and face their fears. In my story, I tell readers about my experience of being sexually assaulted and intimidated by Darren who used his power to hurt rather than help people. I stood up and did something about it. I told my friends, my boss, my partner - until something was done to make sure his police badge was stripped.

WD: Bravo. I can’t imagine how hard that was for you. I think you were very brave. Is there anything you want to say to your fans?
E: I want readers to keep using their voices, and to trust the decisions they make.

WD: Great advice. Can we look forward to reading more of your story?
E: Spoiler alert - let’s hit the fast-forward button: the author who spent time with Keith and me for our novella always writes stories with happy endings. At least, that’s what she told us. She’s now writing about our daughters, Rose, Jasmine, and Daisy - the Starling Sisters series.

Rose’s story with Liam is a slow-burn one. She’s a lot more like her father than me. Keith was a protective father and perhaps sheltered Rose a bit. I’m there in my daughter’s story, especially as she struggles with Liam. Now, I’ve known Liam since he was a little boy. He could be a bloody sh*t both as a child and an adult. He mucked up with Rose, but he’s relentless. He won’t give her up so easily and will wait for her to forgive him for what he did, even if it takes years.

As for Jasmine, my middle child’s story is about the plight of single mothers. I was raised by a single mother and my daughter is a single mum. I would give anything to help remove the prejudices that single mothers today still face. Keith has always supported Jasmine, and she’s a tough cookie like her parents.

Daisy is the quieter one. I’d like to see her come out of her shell more, but she will in due time. She can be spontaneous and her taste in men is interesting. She loves rodeo riders, and we have a national circuit of rodeo events in Australia.

WD: Your daughters sound like amazing women. I hope I get the chance to meet them someday. Unfortunately, our time is up. Thank you for sharing your story with us. I for one am glad I got the chance to know you. :
E: Thank you, again for the interview. We could chat forever, so let’s meet up again another time. You are more than welcome to visit me at Starling Homestead. I’ll make sure you’ll enjoy our scones and cakes, and we’ll have a cuppa tea, or coffee.

WD: My own Outback experience. Count me in. Wait, does it come with a single stunner like Keith?

If you’d like to read Elizabeth’s story and find out more about her romance with Keith, check out cool pics on Estelle's Socials or join the discussion in on her Facebook page .

Lynn Kolmyn from Loving Between The Lines By Brenda Margriet

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:32:18 GMT

Willa Drew: Hi there. What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?
Lynn Kolmyn: Please call me Lynn. I beg you! My full name is actually Crystal-Lynn, but I dropped the Crystal as soon as I could. Now only my parents call me that. It suits their 1970’s musicians vibe, but not me.

WD: Lynn it is then! Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today. Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?
L: I’d love a glass of wine, but will stick with water if that’s okay. I’m doing this interview while my son Oscar is napping, and I’ll need all my wits about me when he wakes up. I save wine for later in the evening when he’s down for the night.

WD: Ooh, I’ll try to keep it down then. Wouldn’t want to wake the little one. So, tell me a little about yourself? Where do you live?
L: I live in the same town as my author friend, Brenda Margriet. It’s called Prince George, British Columbia (it’s not named after the young son of William and Kate, BTW). When I was a kid, my parents dragged me and my twin sister from town to town, music festival to music festival, while they performed with their band all across North America. My sister and I made a pledge to stay in whatever town we were in when we turned 18…and that ended up being Prince George. I went to university here and it has been my home for more than 20 years now.

WD: I love Canada. Haven’t been to British Columbia yet though. Besides not singing, do you have any jobs or hobbies?
L: I may have misled you a little - sorry! I’m not a singer, and in fact have no musical talent. That’s only one of the reasons my father is disappointed in me. He was really hoping for the whole Partridge Family thing, I think.

I do use my experience with concerts and festivals in my current job, though. I work as an event manager at the local arena. Normally I would spend my days helping promoters and concert managers and conference organizers with their shows. Our biggest client, though, is a junior hockey team called the Prince George Canyon Cats. After I returned from maternity leave (in Canada I was allowed to take a full year off) I ended up doing a lot of work for the team because their promotions coordinator quit. That’s where I ran into Benjamin…again.

As for hobbies, I don’t have a lot. Being a mom takes up most of my time outside of work. But I do belong to the Silverberry Book Club. Calling it a book club is a little misleading, mind you. We got tired of reading so-called “good” books a couple years ago and now we do things like hiking, skydiving, apple picking and photography workshops.

WD: Hold up - Benjamin again? Sounds like there’s a story there…
L: This is kind of embarrassing. I first met Benjamin a couple of years ago. I was moping around after my fiance dumped me and had just made the decision to get pregnant without a man. I’d stopped into a local jazz bar for a solitary drink and Benjamin was there. Well, one thing led to another and…you get the drift. Now he’s coaching the Canyon Cats and I keep bumping into him…sometimes literally, LOL!

WD: I’m imaging broad shoulder and…wait we were talking about you. Let’s get serious for a moment. What are some of your likes and dislikes?
L: I love to check off things on my To Do list. I colour coordinate my calendars and thrive on routine. Or I did until Oscar came along. Nothing like a baby to force a person to be more flexible! Not that I’d give up a moment with him. After all, I chose in vitro because I wanted to be a mother so badly.

WD: In vitro. So cool. And brave. I ask everyone who their favourite person in the world is but I have a suspicion I can guess yours.
L: Hands down, my son Oscar. I had a plan for my life. Go to university for a business degree, get a good job, get married, have kids, live contentedly every after. Things were going great until my fiancé of seven years ran off to become a country music star. Suddenly I was 38 years old and my plan was in danger. That’s when I decided to use in vitro to become a mom. I’m not going to lie…it’s tough sometimes. But I wouldn’t change a single moment, not when it means I have Oscar in my life.

WD: Such an inspiring story. So its you, Oscar and…any pets in the household?
L: No, though I’ve been thinking about it. Every boy needs a dog, right? As a kid, we pretty much lived out of our van. I never even went to real school…my mom home-schooled my sister and I. A pet did not fit into my father’s career plans. I’d like Oscar to have that experience.

WD: Gosh. That’s an interesting childhood. Gotta ask – Do you ever travel?
L: No, thank you. I’ve worked hard to build a home, and my idea of a great vacation is to enjoy that home. Maybe if I had someone to travel with…other than a toddler. I suppose I could be convinced into a week at a tropical resort. But having a life that involves a lot of travel…like a hockey coach, for instance…that’s not for me. Benjamin seems to take it in stride, but it’s not what I want for myself and my son.

WD: On Monday morning, are you excited to go to work, or are you sad?
L: Can I say both? I love my job. It’s different every day. I get to work with all kinds of people, from promoters of star performers to directors of charitable organizations. But since having Oscar, going to work means leaving him at daycare. And as much as he seems to be enjoying it, it kills me to leave him behind. I begrudge missing any moment of his day.

WD: Too bad the arena doesn’t have a bring your son to work everyday policy. Anyone at work you might consider an archnemesis?
L: might be a strong term, but I do have someone I need to keep my eyes on. Peterson Brewster is the owner of the junior hockey club that is the anchor client for our arena. He wants to move the team, but it’s locked into his contract that he can’t unless attendance falls below a certain level. It’s up to me to make sure there are enough butts in the seats each game, but it’s tough with him blocking me at ever turn. It also pisses me off that he’s screwing with any potential success Benjamin might have as a coach.

WD: What is your greatest fear?
L: Other than something happening to Oscar? Change, especially the idea of having to pack up and move. I did that so often as a child I vowed that, once I was an adult in charge of my own destiny, I would put down roots…and keep them.

WD: Speaking of change…if you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
L: At this moment, I’m not sure there is much I’d like to change. I love my job, adore being a mommy, have great friends. Since Benjamin re-entered my life I do wonder if I’m missing out on something by not having a partner. He’s so good with Oscar, even though he has no kids of his own. It makes my heart melt.

WD: Are you happy we know your story?
L: I’m a little bit embarrassed about it, really. I’m not that special. But if reading about my life can give someone a bit of enjoyment, take them away from their troubles for a little while, I guess it’s okay.

WD: Everyone has a story. For those fans that are reading your book, is there anything you want to say to them?
L: I have fans?? If I thought that was true, I guess I’d say “Hi, and thanks for coming along on my journey.”

WD: Can we look forward to reading more of your story?
L: I love meeting new people…it was a necessary skill given my random childhood. So if you want to stay in touch you can pick up the stories about the other members of the Silverberry Book Club. I pop into each of those, at least for a little while. I think Brenda has them listed on her website. I’m sure the link will be shared.

WD: Oh, I think I can hear little Oscar looking for his mom. He has perfect timing because we are out of time unfortunately . Thanks for chatting with me today.
L: Thanks for letting me come visit!

WD: I might just return the favour one day when I finally make it to British Columbia.
L: You bet! The door is always open.

If you’d like to read Lynn's story and find out more about that emerald eyed doctor, check out cool pics on Brenda's Instagram or join the discussion on Facebook .

Jessica Taylor from Finding You Completes Me By Stacey Komosinski

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:30:56 GMT

Willa Drew: Hi there. What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?
Jessica Taylor: Hi there. Jess is fine.

WD: Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today.
J: I appreciate your time. I enjoy meeting new folks and chatting.

WD: Me too! Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?
J: No sweet tea? Just kidding. Coffee would be great.

WD: Coffee it is. Tell me a little about yourself.
J: I grew up in Oklahoma, in a small town without a lot. I moved to the city of Galorston, Texas for college and stayed there for four years, until I took a job in San Diego. Never acclimated to the west coast though. And as soon as I became the guardian to my niece I hightailed it back to Texas - where I could be near my best friends.

WD: Ah, a country girl. Where in Texas did you land?
J: I live in the small town of Harmony - where most folks are your family or your friends.

WD: Now that sounds like a great place to live. Do you have any jobs or hobbies?

J: I work in IT as a software designer and project manager. I love my job and I love spending time with my friends. Anything from walks and jogs to staying in and having dinner together.

WD: Fresh air and food. I’m in. What are some of your likes and dislikes?
J: I like sweet tea, sangria and chocolate. I dislike mean and fake people.

WD: I think we could be friends. What is your greatest fear?
J: Something happening to my friends or my family.

WD: Tell us about someone important to you?
J: I am super close to my daddy. He is the hardest working man I’ve ever met… a true role model.

WD: Who’s your favorite person in the world?
J: Can the question be “who are your two favorite people in the world”?

WD: Absolutely! Go for it.
J: My best friends, Chloe and Gaby. They are my sisters in every way except by blood.

WD: I don’t have sisters myself but my BFF’s sure make up for it. Do you have siblings?

J: I am the proud big sister to two brothers in the marines and one sister who made me a single mom. But honestly, no regrets. Taking in my niece, (Ruthie) was one of the best things to ever happen to me.

WD: Wow, that’s quite the responsibility, raising a child all on your own. Bet that doesn’t leave much time for..you know…dating. Are you in love?
J: I’ve never been in love before I met Dr. Logan Meyers. I wasn’t expecting to fall as hard as I did… but come on have you ever looked into his eyes? Those emerald eyes suck you in.

WD: I am a sucker for those green irises. So yummy…wait what were we talking about? Right. Interview. Serious stuff. If you could have done one thing differently, what would it be?
J: I never would have left Texas for a job and a boyfriend. There is no place like home.

WD: I’ve heard that somewhere before… If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
J: It would be great to have more time. Time for fun!

WD: Well, there never is enough time for that! Are you happy we know your story?
J: I love sharing the story of how I became a single mother to my niece, managed a career, maintained best friendships and found the love of my life.

WD: Life sounds pretty good. Is there anything you want to say to your fans?
J: Family and friends are everything. I will always have their back.

WD: Could not agree more. Can we look forward to reading more of your story?
J: Definitely, I am part of the Finding Happiness in Harmony series where my story is the third one published, but you can meet me in book 1 (Finding It All) and I make appearances in all of the others. I love small towns where everyone knows everyone!

WD: Jess, I love this attitude. Unfortunately, we’re out of time but maybe you can come back some day and give us an update on all things Harmony. And we can drink sweet tea in your backyard.
J: I appreciate your time. Nothing more I love than meeting new friends!

If you’d like to read Jess's story and find out more about that emerald eyed doctor, check out cool pics on Stacey's Instagram or join the discussion on Facebook .

Sarah Connor from Misses, Hearts, & Us By Willa Drew

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:27:25 GMT

Willa Drew: Hi there. What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?

Sarah Connor: Just Sarah, thanks.

WD: And your last name is…
S: Connor. I know. But nothing to do with the Terminator. Mom named me after her mother Sarah Cote. Owner of the Cote Fraise bakery chain.

WD: I’ll check it out next time I’m in Canada. Do you bake?
S: Unfortunately, I didn’t inherit her baking skills.

WD: I’m sure you have other talents we’ll get to discover today. Thanks for agreeing to talk to us.
S: No worries. My roomie, Siobhan, told me you were looking for Canadians living in the US.

WD: Yes, the Great White North.
S: I keep hearing that. But I was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. That’s further south than Portland and Minneapolis.

WD: I’m going to have to look at the map before my next interview. As a thank you, can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?
S: Usually I’m the one asking that question. I bartend at The Diamond Club. I’m going there after the interview, so a ginger ale would be great.

WD: Coming up. We know where you are from, but what brought you to the US?
S: I came to LA last year to become a screenwriter.

WD: Didn’t you say you bartend? Or is that a hobby?
S: My current job is bartender at the Diamond Club, but I’m working my way through a new screenplay. (leans in) I submitted a sample of my writing to the Starlight Foundation. I’m hoping to win a spot in their Future Film Maker’s competition this summer.

WD: That’s ambitious. Moved to a new country, trying for a prestigious competition…Do you like to take risks?
S: I wouldn’t say like…Meme, the one I was named after, she’s the real risk taker in our family. I try to follow in her footsteps.

WD: Sounds fun. What's your greatest fear?
S: I don’t want to give into my fears and then regret not trying for my dreams when I’m older.

WD: Tell us about someone important to you?
S: Well, there’s this guy. He made me believe I could be a screenwriter again.

WD: Ooh, this sounds good.
S: (Laughs nervously) Yeah, we met on Christmas Eve. Have you ever talked to someone and known that’s your person? And you could spend the entire night talking to them? They got you?

WD: I think I know what you’re hinting at. Are you in love?
S: Love? That’s too big of a word. But I can imagine that happening with him. Wow, I’ve never thought I’d ever say that.

WD: Love sure makes us do silly things.
S: (Rolls her eyes) I can’t believe I’m telling you this, but if I knew where he lived, I can see myself surprising him. Just showing up on his doorstep. So unlike me.

WD: I say, go for it and then come back and tell us the story.
S: Or write it in a screenplay.

WD: If you could have done one thing differently, what would it be?
S: Go home for Christmas. My…grandmother was battling cancer, and I didn’t know it would be her last Christmas. I thought there would be more time.

WD: We always think that. Do you have a secret?
S: I’m an open book. I tell the truth, and I expect the same form the people around me. I don’t have space for liars in my life.

WD: Are you happy we know your story?
S: I hope it inspires others to go for their dreams. This is just the beginning for me.

WD: Can we look forward to reading more of your story?
S: You bet. But next time, why don’t you come over to the Diamond Club, and I’ll make us both an Old Fashioned.

WD: I’d like that. Looks like our time is up and you need to get to work. Keep us updated on all your stories, including that love story.

If you’d like to read Sarah’s story and find out more about the boy she’s hoping to see again, check out cool pics on Instagram or join the discussion in our Facebook group .

About the Book:

My life isn’t a screenplay, but if it were, my story pitch might read something like this:

Aspiring screenwriter/bartender decides to take a risk when her plane gets stranded in the Windy City, the hometown of her holiday crush.

…on Valentine’s Day.

Cupid’s idea of a cruel joke? Or maybe fate hid Shawn Rosstav’s driver’s license in my pocket for a reason.

If I wrote our reunion scene, showing up on his doorstep unannounced would be the perfect grand gesture. We’d pick up right where we left off: in each other’s arms.

I wish just this once I could be like the bold heroines I write.

What if true love isn’t just for the silver screen?

Will my mystery man want to see me again… or does he kiss and forget?

Misses, Hearts, & Us is a missed him by that much novella continuing the story from Kisses, Lies, & Us , a Christmas novella. Sarah and Nick’s love story spans a year of their lives and is told with the backdrop of major holidays across five books.

Valencia Calderon from Never Forget By Christina Vourcos

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:26:14 GMT

Willa Drew: What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?
Valencia Calderon: Valencia is fine.

WD: Great. Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today.
V: Gracias. I’m honored to be here.

WD: Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?
V: Sweet iced tea, please and thank you.

WD: Excellent choice. Tell me a little about yourself.
V: I’m just an average Latina trying to complete college for my parents.

WD: Oh, I’m sure there’s more. Where do you live?
V: My hometown of Corpus Christi, Texas… you might know it for being the hometown of a famous
Broadway and TV star. As well as the home of the Queen of Tejano. It’s a nice city, but big enough to have things to do, but small enough to know someone who knows someone.

WD: Sounds like a nice place to live. Do you have any jobs or hobbies?
V: If you count being part of a psychology study, a job, then yes. If not, then I’m just a college student who reads sometimes and enjoys watching TV shows.

WD: Psychology study??? Can you tell us more?
V: It focuses on memories. Besides that I can’t tell you more. Hopefully someday I can. There’s things that even Xavier can’t tell me. As much as he wants to.

WD: So interesting. What are some of your likes and dislikes?
V: I’ve enjoyed recently visiting Rising Comics and More. It’s such a fantastic local shop. We love supporting local in Corpus Christi. I dislike not being able to know what’s going on. I usually want to keep finding out what I don’t know.

WD: You and me both! What is your greatest fear?
V: I’ve already lost my parents. While I miss them, I’m still afraid of death.

WD: Fair enough. If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
V: I would have a time machine to go back and save my parents.

WD: Let’s try something juicier. Are you in love?
V: Don’t tell, Xavier. He doesn’t need an ego boost.

WD: My lips are sealed. Do you have an archnemesis?
V: I hope not. Although there have been some strange things happening lately.

WD: Okay, some rapid fire questions. Do you have a secret?
V: I’m an open book, but I probably shouldn’t be.

WD: Sounds like there’s a story there. Do you like to cook?
V: Sometimes. I mostly enjoy cooking for someone.

WD: Do you like Girl Scout cookies?
V: I used to sell Girl Scout cookies! I enjoy buying them when I can to support fellow Girl Scouts, plus the lemon cookies are good with tea. I only found out because Xavier loves tea. He also found that comic book shop too.

WD: Are you happy we know your story?
V: I’m thankful for the voice to tell my story. Not everyone has that chance.

WD: Very true. Is there anything you want to say to your fans?
V: You mean Xavier. I’m sure he’s my only fan. He’s probably excited now that I’ve mentioned him. He’s such a nerd, but it’s my type.

WD: I like the sound of Xavier. Can we look forward to reading more of your story?
V: Yes, there’s still more left to be revealed. It’s like a three season TV show.

WD: I love this idea. Oh, look at the time. I’ve kept you too long. Thank you Valencia for talking to us today.
V: I’m truly thankful to be interviewed. I’ve heard you all enjoy music. So do I. I’m looking forward to the Battle of the Bands contest on campus soon. I’m sure there will be some good performances. Besides that, I want to make sure Xavier and I have a good time in college while we get through this study. I’m sure there’s more than what we know about.

WD: I do love music! And a good Battle of the Bands. Maybe I'll tag along and meet Xavier. Let’s go.

If you’d like to read Valencia's story and find out more about her journey check out cool pics etc. on Christina Vourcos’ Instagram and Goodreads page.

Ellis “Fox” Argall, MD, PhD, JD By Collings MaCrae

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:24:59 GMT

WD: Hi there. What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?
Fox: Call me anything you want. I won’t notice, to be honest.

Cap: Call him “Dr. Argall” if you want his attention. He ignores “Fox.” That’s what most of us call him.

I’m “Cap,” Fox’s direct supervisor— a misnomer if I’ve heard one. I am Captain of the Violent Crimes Division of the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Department. Now in his fifth career incarnation, Dr. Argall is a Lieutenant detective under me.

WD: Got it. Welcome gentlemen and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today. Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?

Fox: Cap, think they’ll have real bourbon? We prefer Blanton’s. We will take Basil Hayden, if we must. Neat. Never adulterate the bourbon.

WD: Couldn’t agree more. Bourbon it is. Tell me about yourself.

Cap: His favorite subject, if he has one. Which he doesn’t.

Fox: I’m a Welsh immigrant. I’m a tidge over-educated for my position as a police lieutenant— a detective. Over-qualified. I like school; it likes me. I have a PhD in Molecular Genetics. I went to medical school when I was quite young. I met my wonderful wife — Gracie — freshman year at Ohio State.

Got a little freaked out when she got pregnant five minutes after we got married. I live with Asperger’s, and my focus was…interrupted. So I went to law school. That didn’t suit, got into a tussle with a sociopathic Senator, so I got a PhD in Criminology. Rest is history.

WD: History indeed. Where do you live?

Jupiter, in south Florida.

WD: Ah, the Sunshine State. Do you have any jobs or hobbies?

Fox: My hobby as a detective is more than full-time. I do work at our Medical Clinic when I can. Friends of mine and I set it up. I keep my medical certificates and licenses up to date. Oh, my law certs, too. Gotta stay updated.

WD: You sound like a very busy man. What are some of your likes and dislikes?

Fox: Interruptions. I’m not fond of most of the furniture Gracie buys, but that’s probably not what you mean. I hate pizza. And cake. Messy. Chaos. I detest chaos.

Cap: He’s the cause of most chaos. Who hates pizza?

WD: I was wondering that myself. Cheese, bread, what’s not to love? But each to their own. What is your greatest fear?

Losing my Gracie. It’s my only fear.

WD: Fair, fair. If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

Fox: (hesitating) Nothing. I live in the moment.

Cap: Who wouldn’t want to be Fox Argall?

WD: Now that’s a good question. Tell me, do you have any special talents?

Cap: Please. Don’t encourage him.

Fox: Well, I’m pretty smart.

Cap: Stop there.

Fox: If I couldn’t sing, I’d never have won Gracie.

Cap: Here we go. Stop, Fox. No one cares.

WD: Gotta say I love this friendship here. Let’s try something fun. Do you have a secret?

Fox: No.

Cap: He has nothing but secrets.

WD: Okay then. Are you happy we know your story?

Fox: It was inevitable.

Cap: See?

WD: I’m getting the picture. Do you have an archnemesis?

Cap: Natalie Forester. Sociopath.

Fox: She would describe herself as “An Interested Party,” and I would describe her as a Crazy Stalker that looks like she walked out of Roger Rabbit. Always slinky. Like a noir night club singer.

WD: Well, she sounds like a peach. Do you have siblings?

Six older sisters, all still in the UK. Isla was the closest — six years older. She kept the boys from beating me up in school. I was “too pretty” and “too weird.” Bad combination.

WD: Bravo Isla. Are you in love?

“Love” barely captures my obsession with my Gracie. Thirty years, now!

WD: Congratulations. Is there anything you want to say to your fans?

Cap: Oh, good grief, Leona. ‘Fans.’ (sighs)

Fox: (smiles)

WD: Can we look forward to reading more of your story?

Fox: I can’t imagine why not. What else would you be doing? Aren’t you caught up, now? I’m on my fifth book!

WD: Well I guess I better let you get back to your investigations then. Thank you Dr. Argall and Cap for taking the time to chat with us today.

Fox: Cap, you were very well-behaved.

If you’d like to read Dr. Argall’s story and find out more those investigations check out cool pics etc. on Collings MacCrae Instagram Account or read the story on Amazon. .

Elenka from As Above By Liza Penn

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:23:48 GMT

Willa Drew: Hi there. What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?
Elenka, Empress of the Sky Empire: Please, don’t call me “Empress!” The formalities of my title make me uncomfortable. Just Elenka is fine.

WD: A pleasure to meet you Elenka. Thanks for agreeing to talk to us today.
E: Thank you for having me! Any chance to speak to others and share ideas is important.

WD: I agree. Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?
E: Wine would be lovely, or tea...particularly if you have any cakes to go with it.

WD: Tea and cakes. We will be friends. Tell me a little about yourself?
E: I grew up knowing that a prophecy was upon me--from the time I was a baby, it was foretold that my marriage alliance would unite all the kingdoms and bring forth peace. As such, I travelled extensively to all the lands, meeting princes and prime ministers, queens and generals. But none of us expected for a literal god to descend and claim me as his bride. I hope that my marriage with Brendle, the Emperor God of the Sky, will bring forth peace to the mortal lands I once called home. Although adapting as a human to this court of gods and nymphs has been more challenging than I previously thought.

WD: Well, talk about unexpected. Where do you live?
E: Currently I’m in the royal suites of the Crystal Palace. It’s far more luxurious than anything I knew back in the mortal realms! I’m not sure it feels quite like home yet, despite having my husband with me. But at least I have a good friend in my maid and my dog, Blossom, gets to be in the room with me. He’s a huge black dog that Brendle calls a beast, but he’s the sweetest pup you’ll ever see.

WD: Takes time to adjust to new surroundings. Do you have any jobs or hobbies?
E: I am solely focused on helping the people of the mortal realms prosper. I take my role as Empress very seriously--it’s not just about parties and reveling in wealth. I want to use my wealth to help others. I just have to convince the rest of the court that they should care about mortals...

WD: What are some of your likes and dislikes?
E: I love my dog so much! He’s so sweet--and sometimes a bit of a mystery. He disappeared for a whole day once, and came back with a note from an anonymous letter writer. Writing to my secret pen pal has become a special time for me. I know better than to let me guard down fully, but whoever’s been penning me letters has given me some wonderful advice and confidence.

I don’t really like the way the nymphs and gods of court view humans. I’m the exception, as the Empress, but they treat most humans as disposable amusements.

WD: Oh, those gods can be fickle. What is your greatest fear?
E: Failure. There is a great responsibility not just in my prophecy but also in my role. I must--must--serve my people!

WD: Very brave of you. So, if you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
E: I...I should not confess this, but I do wish my husband would aid me more in caring for mortals. I know as Emperor he must rule all, but mortals are so often ignored. And...I feel like sometimes I am ignored as well, or, at least, my concerns are. He doesn’t want to keep me merely as a plaything though, surely?

WD: Let’s hope not! Are you in love?
E: I am! I am. I married the Sky Emperor, there could be no greater joy. Right? And...it’s perfectly reasonable that he’s so busy. He’s the Emperor. Of course I should not jeopardize all his time. I am in love. That’s definitely what this is. I...couldn’t possibly know any greater joy than to be the Sky Emperor’s wife. I just...he will hear me. He will. He’ll help me to help others. I know it. Surely.

WD: As a mortal myself, I hope so too. Do you have any special talents?
E: I do have the magic of illusions. All mortals who live in the Sky Empire have a gift of some sort of magic, but it’s enhanced greatly by the presence of the gods and nymphs who patronize us.

WD: That sounds fun. Do you like to cook?
E: I wish I could! But I’m not allowed in the kitchens. Ever. I’ve often wondered why...

WD: I’m curious as well. Do you have an archnemesis?
E: None at all. (Although, if you read the first chapter of my story, you may realize that’s not true…)

WD: Let’s try a fun question. If you could go back in time for one day, where would you go?
E: I met a gardener the day of my eighteenth birthday. He was so kind. I’ve often wondered if perhaps he knew that my entire life would change by that night--Brendle came to claim me, and I was whisked away to the Sky Empire. I’ve thought of that gardener often, of those hours before everything changed.

WD: A gardener you say. Perhaps you’ll meet again someday. Are you happy we know your story?
E: So happy--I want to share my quest with others and let others see ways they can help. And if my love can inspire more love, that is wonderful!

And...well, I am glad that there are witnesses to the world I am uncovering. Much of what the mortals knew of the gods was wrong. For example, did you know that there is a pit in the court room? It’s always cold and dark, and the rumor is that it leads to the Underworld. I cannot find more information about it, and that worries me. I shall have to investigate further...

WD: A pit to the underworld. You do live an exciting life. Is there anything you want to say to your fans?
E: Please believe in me--I am trying my best to help! And always look for new routes. This is advice I fear I may have to take myself, soon enough...

WD: Can we look forward to reading more of your story?
E: Absolutely--my story updates every Sunday, with a new enticing chapter.

WD: Unfortunately Elenka, that is all the time we have today. I wish you luck with your marriage and advocating for us mortals.
E: Thank you for having me! And if you know anything about the Underworld, please do let me know. My dog always seems cold after he returns with a letter from my secret pen pal. Do you think I should ask about the Underworld?

WD: I have to say I’m curious as well. Maybe ask your secret pen pal for advice?

If you’d like to read Elenka’s story and find out more that pit check out cool pics etc. on Lisa Penn’s facebook page .

Franky from The Assassin’s Homecoming By Jack Brightside

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:21:43 GMT

Willa Drew: Hi there. What should I call you? Do you prefer a nickname?

Franky Lacy: You can call me Franky, all my friends do. My name is Francois Lacy, but don’t tell anybody that. I’m supposed to be undercover for this job. Don’t tell anyone about this interview, okay?

WD: My lips are sealed. (Wink, Wink) Welcome and thanks for agreeing to talk to us today.
FL: Yeah, no problem. I’m supposed to be watching the money, but I told the guys I had to step out for a smoke. I can give you maybe ten minutes of my time, then I’ve got to get back. I figure the guys can handle themselves for ten minutes.

WD: Got it. Can I get you something to drink? Water? Soda? Coffee? Wine? Whiskey?
FL: Wine, if you have it. I’ve been drinking nothing but vodka on this job. Smitty, he’s the one who organized the job, spent the liquor budget on ammo and good horses. Who does that? Wine needs to be a priority on the jobs I work. He knows this about me.

WD: Glad I’m not Smitty. Let’s start at the beginning. Tell me a little about yourself.
FL: I’d love to talk about myself. I was born in France, where I was tragically incarcerated for a crime I didn’t commit. Happens to everybody, right? They pulled prisoners to serve on the front lines in 1734, and that’s how I got out. I learned how to accurately shoot so I could be taken out of the infantry meatgrinder and serve instead as a sharpshooter. Way harder to get shot at when you’re a sharpshooter. Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating. I get shot at all the time. I deserted my company and became a mercenary. You’d never know it unless you saw the prisoner brand on my hip. You’re not gonna tell anybody about this, right?

WD: I love a good secret. Where do you live?
FL: Alright, gorgeous. I’m going to level with you. I don’t have a permanent address right now. I’m on sabbatical. I’m crashing with friends.

WD: Good to have friends. Do you have any jobs or hobbies?
FL: I work as a contract assassin. I’m a sharpshooter. Why, are you trying to hire me? Is there a job? Is there somebody you need taken care of?

WD: Oh, no. I’m good in the assassin department, nobody to kill today. What are some of your likes and dislikes?
FL: Currently, I’m stuck on a job with my miserable ex-boyfriend, Kenny. He’s at the top of the “dislike” list. I appreciate fine dining and sugary treats. I’m a sucker for baked goods.

WD: Have you ever served in the military?
FL: Yes! Infantry, then light infantry as a sharpshooter. Then as a mercenary on a contract. That’s how I learned my negotiation skills!

WD: What is your greatest fear?
FL: I can go anywhere in Europe, except back to France. Let’s just say I’ve got unfinished business.

WD: I see. If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
FL: What are you, my therapist? I’m just kidding. It gets lonely sometimes. I wish I had someone waiting for me when I get back from jobs.

WD: Are you in love?
FL: Hopelessly, miserably in love. Don’t get me started on it!

WD: Oh but I so want to. Let’s go the other way. Do you have an archnemesis?
FL: Definitely Kenny, the dragoon on our team of assassins. We have a score to settle from the war.

WD: Poor, poor Kenny. If you could go back in time for one day, where would you go?
FL: I’d go back to the day that Kenny decapitated my ex-boyfriend. You read that right! I said we’ve got unfinished business, and I meant it!

WD: If you could have done one thing differently, what would it be?
FL: Okay, don’t tell anyone I said this. You promise? I wish I’d been nicer when I broke up with Kenny. Maybe we would’ve been friends. I dunno.

WD: Yup, you and Kenny sure do have unfinished business. Are you happy we know your story?
FL: Yeah! You’re not gonna tell anyone, right?

WD: Oh, we’re friends now. You can trust me. Is there anything you want to say to your fans?
FL: Please don’t listen to anything Kenny says in his ‘point of view’ chapters. He is a compulsive liar.

WD: Noted. Can we look forward to reading more of your story?
FL: Well, yeah! You’ve got to get my side of the story!

WD: Franky, I think our time is up and your break is over. Thanks for chatting with us today and may the weather be fair for the rest of your journey.

FL: So, what are you doing after this interview? More importantly, can I still crash on your couch this weekend?

WD: I knew the friend line was too far.

If you’d like to read Franky’s story or find out more about him check out cool pics etc. on Jack Brightside's facebook page and all their books on their amazon page .