Allbooks Reviews INTERVIEW:
Please state your name and location. (city and State or Province, Country)
Carolyn LeComte, Peru, Massachusetts
Tell us the title and publisher of your book:
Dark Paradise, published by Write Words, Inc.
Tell us about yourself:
I’ve been an artist all my life, and a writer for as long as I can remember. I majored in art, and minored in American Literature in college, and have made my living in these fields. During my career in the Technical Publications Department of a major defense contractor, I had the opportunity to hone my editing skills, though creative writing was seldom, if ever, used in the performance of my duties. I continued to write for my own enjoyment, and began developing novels about five years ago. A while later, I decided to pursue publication. I have continued to take workshops and courses to ever improve the quality of my writing. I enjoy oil painting, photography, word games – and best of all, my family.
When was the book released?
Dark Paradise was released on February 1, 2009
Give us an overview of your book.
Successful artist Sara Chandler, tries to get as far away as possible from the man to whom she once was married. She arrives on the big island of Hawaii with renewed spirit and refreshed outlook. However, she and her plans soon run headlong into a formidable obstacle in the person of Lucas Henshaw, whose promise to his deceased wife drives him to possess the land that Sara has purchased.
Over the next few months, menace and peril plague Sara, yet she cannot divest herself of her attraction to Lucas, the man who very well may be responsible for her newest troubles.
As they dance around their feelings—and their fears—the past comes exploding back into their lives with deadly consequences. Sara and Lucas’ only chance of survival depends on their unacknowledged love, in their last fight with a devil.
What inspired you to write this book?
Visiting the big island of Hawaii, I was intrigued by the sultry atmosphere and lushness of the island. I was inspired to write a novel set there – the setting was my first inspiration. As I enjoy romantic suspense, I incorporated passion and danger into the tropical heat.
How is your book different from other books in this genre?
As with most genres, there are specifics to be held to when writing a romance. Among these are a hero and heroine the reader can like (or love), empathize with, and/or identify with; conflict between them; the “black moment;” and a happy ending. Dark Paradise has all these. But it also explores, from two different directions, how the past can influence a person’s future, how running from it or clinging to it can cripple a person emotionally. The romance is a bit rocky, the suspense provides a couple of twists; and through it all, a sweet child helps the healing. And it’s written in my voice.
Where can people buy your book?
Dark Paradise can be purchased at writewordsinc.com, Amazon.com (Kindle version), and Mobipocket.com. It is currently available only in ebook format.
Are you working on another book? If so when do you expect it to be published?
Trinity James, my next book (a historical romance/western), is currently under contract with Black Velvet Seductions Publishing, and should be out in paperback and ebook later this year. I am also readying a third historical romance/western to begin the publication journey.
If you self published, what advice can you give to fellow writers?
If published traditionally, tell us how you benefited:
Dark Paradise is currently published by a small, independent publishing company, in ebook format. I have learned a lot in my journey toward publication; every step of the way has brought its lessons, heartache, and triumph. I’ve learned you do gain much from the times you fail, and every step, no matter how small, sends you farther down the road to your goals. I have a better idea of what works, and how much work is involved with bringing your writing to the public. Even the non-writing things I have learned during this process have contributed to making me a better writer.
Can you share one of your marketing successes with us?
As Dark Paradise has been on the market just over a month, I’m not sure I can tell at this point what aspects of marketing have been the most successful. I do know having a website is a must for any writer and making contacts through the different online venues is also essential. Direct mailings help, and I did contact one of the businesses I mention in my book to let them know of this free publicity. Hopefully, that contact will generate sales.
How did you find Allbooks Reviews and what are you hoping for in your relationship with us?
I found Allbooks Reviews through Google. I am hoping for a resource through which I can successfully market my book.
Was the low cost a surprise? What other things would you like Allbooks Reviews to offer writers?
The cost was affordable, and given the thoroughness and quality of the review, it was well worth it. I think Allbooks Reviews has a fine selection of services to offer authors; my only comment is a technical one – I’d like to see a bigger size font on the website – especially in the Q & A section and in the reviews.
Thank you for this interview and best of luck with your book.