The Next Big Thing Hop - Edge of the Past

I was tagged for The Next Big Thing blog hop by Christina Jean Michaels, so I'm going to share with you some scoop about my upcoming novel EDGE OF THE PAST. Tentative release date is November 27!

1. What is the working title of your book?

Edge of the Past

2.  Where did the idea come from for the book?

The book picks up the story of Emily and Sergei one year after Life on the Edge ended. I loved the characters so much and wanted to explore more of their stories, especially how Sergei's past could impact his and Emily's future.

3.  What genre does your book fall under?

New Adult contemporary romance

4.  Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?

My choice for Emily is Kimberly Matula who plays Hope on The Bold and the Beautiful. She looks so wholesome, and the character she plays on the soap opera holds a lot of the same principles as Emily. She also has the perfect shade of dark blonde hair and beautiful blue eyes!

For Sergei, I couldn't find anyone more perfect than Josh Dallas, who plays Prince Charming on Once Upon a Time. When I saw him on TV, I couldn't believe how well he fit the physical description - golden brown hair, mesmerizing blue eyes, and lean build with just the right amount of muscle. He also has the required deep, sexy voice. Who wouldn't swoon over this man?!

 

5.  What is the one sentence synopsis of your book?

When the past explodes into the present, what does it mean for the future?

6.  Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency?

The book will be published by Astraea Press, which also published Life on the Edge. They're so great to work with, and I'm so thankful for the opportunities they've given me!

7.  How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?

I wrote the first chapter in February 2012 but got stuck on the second chapter and didn't pick up the manuscript again until April. I did an April writing boot camp online, and it was so motivating to be on a team with other writers. I wrote every single day of the month and made good progress. Then I hit another block. I had a few ideas for how I wanted the rest of the story to play out, but none of them excited me. I struggled with this for over a month, beating my head against the wall, until I reached out to a friend and she helped me work out all my plotting issues. I felt like I finally saw the light! From there I was able to move forward, and I finished the draft in August.

8.  What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?

I would compare this story to Point of Retreat by Colleen Hoover. Point of Retreat is also a continuation of a love story (started in Slammed), and it explores the challenges of a relationship after the "falling in love" period is over. The characters still love each other very much, but as big changes happen in their lives, their relationship is tested in ways they never anticipated.

9.  Who or what inspired you to write this book?

All the readers who loved Life on the Edge and said they wanted to read more about the characters. Thank you to everyone who read my first book and gave me feedback. It's been such an amazing journey!

10. What else about your book might pique the reader's interest?

This story delves into a lot of different emotions... jealousy, fear, love, doubt, regret... and it takes you on Emily's journey as she tries to make sense of the chaos surrounding her. I hope it will touch your heart!

I have to tag five other writers to participate in the hop, so here goes!

Lauren Stewart
Victoria Smith
Jaycee DeLorenzo
Liz Botts
J. Andersen