Tag Archives: Books

Embracing the Tropes: How I Rescued My Writing Business and Found Joy in Trope-Driven Romance

In 2020, the world was in turmoil. The U.S. election was one of the most contentious in history, and the pandemic added a layer of uncertainty to almost every aspect of life. My writing business was no exception. As a full-time author, I faced the terrifying reality that my career, which I had spent years building, was on the brink of collapse. The usual strategies weren’t working, and I needed to adapt quickly or risk losing everything.

The Turning Point: Discovering the Power of Tropes

In the midst of this chaos, I embarked on an intense period of market research. I studied bestsellers, analyzed reader preferences, and identified trends that were consistently performing well. What I discovered was simple but powerful: tropes were not just popular—they were essential. Readers craved stories that hit familiar beats, with beloved themes and dynamics that they could dive into without hesitation.

Tropes are the building blocks of genre fiction. They are the recognizable themes, characters, and plot devices that create an immediate connection between the reader and the story. Think of them as the comfort food of literature—they’re satisfying, predictable in the best way, and leave readers craving more.

Why Tropes Are a Writer’s Best Friend

Tropes are incredibly useful when plotting a story. Like a well-constructed blurb, a trope gives you a clear roadmap to follow. It sets up expectations for the reader and provides a framework within which you can craft your narrative. Whether you’re a plotter or a pantser, having a trope in mind helps guide your story’s direction, ensuring it remains focused and engaging.

Using Tropes to Plot a Story

When I sat down to write my “Making It” series, I leaned heavily into popular tropes to create stories that were not only marketable but deeply resonated with readers. Take “Making It Forever,” for example. This novella is rich with the classic “rich guy/poor guy” trope, a favorite of mine.

Here’s the blurb:

“Being rich isn’t about the things we have, but about the love we share.”

In a world where wealth reigns supreme, Ezra Bennett, a former Olympian haunted by a career-ending injury, finds himself in the orbit of Gabriel Monroe—a billionaire influencer. While Gabriel basks in the glow of affluence and success, Ezra navigates the shadows, working as a janitor within Gabriel’s glittering empire.

Their lives couldn’t be further apart—Gabriel, a symbol of power and privilege, and Ezra, a man molded by adversity and the stark realities of poverty. Fate, however, orchestrates an unexpected convergence. As Ezra toils amidst Gabriel’s lavish world, an invisible thread weaves between them—a connection fueled by Ezra’s silent admiration, stark contrasts, and a shared understanding born from vastly different worlds colliding. Will Ezra and Gabriel defy the boundaries set by society’s hierarchy, or will the gaping divide between their lives extinguish the spark of their unlikely romance?

Making It Forever is a steamy story about two men, total opposites, who discover love is more important than anything else in the world. It’s the seventh book in the Making It series, and it may be read as a standalone story.

This story exemplifies how a strong trope can shape the entire narrative. The “rich guy/poor guy” dynamic is more than just a backdrop—it drives the characters’ interactions, their internal conflicts, and the story’s emotional stakes. Gabriel’s wealth and influence contrast sharply with Ezra’s struggles and resilience, creating a tension that keeps readers hooked.

My Favorite Tropes to Write About

  1. Second Chance Romance:
    • Why I Love It: There’s something inherently powerful about love that gets a second shot. The history and unresolved emotions between the characters make for deep, meaningful conflict and a satisfying resolution.
    • How I Use It: I start by crafting a rich backstory—why the characters broke up and what circumstances bring them back together. The tension comes from their shared past and the question of whether they can overcome it to find happiness again.
  2. Age Gap:
    • Why I Love It: The age difference introduces natural challenges and different life perspectives, making the relationship dynamic and often provocative.
    • How I Use It: I explore the characters’ internal and external conflicts, from societal judgments to personal insecurities. The contrast between youthful energy and mature wisdom can add layers of complexity to the romance.
  3. Boss/Employee:
    • Why I Love It: The inherent power imbalance and the forbidden nature of the relationship add instant drama and stakes.
    • How I Use It: This trope often involves navigating the thin line between professionalism and personal feelings. The tension comes from the characters’ need to maintain boundaries while their attraction grows.
  4. Rich Guy/Poor Guy:
    • Why I Love It: This trope plays with class differences and wealth disparity, often adding a ‘Cinderella’ element that readers find irresistible.
    • How I Use It: The story focuses on the challenges and misunderstandings that arise from differing lifestyles. The romance becomes a way to bridge these divides, showing that love can transcend societal barriers.

Conclusion: Tropes as Tools for Success

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my experience, it’s that tropes are a writer’s best friend. They provide structure, guide your storytelling, and connect deeply with readers. Whether you’re looking to rescue a struggling writing career, like I did, or simply want to create stories that resonate, embracing tropes can lead you to success. So, the next time you sit down to outline your story, start with a trope—it just might be the key to unlocking your next bestseller.

Exciting news! The entire Making It series is currently on sale for just .99 each! This is the perfect opportunity to dive into these trope-driven novellas and see firsthand how I weave classic romance themes into engaging, emotional stories. Whether you’re a reader who loves a good love story or a writer looking to do some market research, this sale is an excellent chance to explore how tropes can create compelling narratives. Don’t miss out—grab your copies today and enjoy the journey through the Making It series! The buttons below will take you to your favorite stores!

Making It Fit
Making It Spark
Making It Sizzle
Making It Legal
Making It Glitter
Making It Fierce
Making It Forever

Mastering the Art of Writing a Book Blurb: My Step-by-Step Process

Writing a book blurb is one of the most daunting tasks for many authors—myself included when I first started out in publishing back in 2016. The thought of condensing an entire story into just a few short paragraphs was intimidating, to say the least. But after writing dozens of blurbs, I’ve refined a formula that works every time. In fact, I now write the blurb before I even begin outlining the story. Why? Because the blurb is the heart of your book; it tells you and your readers what the story is truly about.

Here’s how I do it:

1. Start with a Line of Dialogue

I always begin with a line of dialogue that captures the essence of the story. This line should be something that resonates with the core of the narrative and hints at the emotions or conflict that drive the plot. It’s your hook—the first impression that draws readers in.

Once I have that line, I place it in bold letters at the very top of the blurb. It’s a way of giving potential readers a taste of the voice and tone of the book right from the start.

2. Introduce the First Main Character

The next step is to write a paragraph from the perspective of one of the main characters. This paragraph should give readers insight into who this character is, what they want, and the challenges they’re facing. Focus on the emotional stakes and what’s driving this character forward. Make sure it’s engaging and leaves readers wanting to know more about this person’s journey.

3. Introduce the Second Main Character

After establishing the first MC, do the same for the second one. This paragraph should highlight their personality, their struggles, and how their path crosses with the first character’s. This creates a dynamic tension and sets up the relationship that will be central to the story. Remember, in romance, the chemistry between your characters is everything—let it shine through here.

4. Wrap It Up with a Teaser

The final paragraph is where you bring it all together. Summarize the main conflict or dilemma that these characters face, and leave the reader with a sense of anticipation. This is your last chance to entice them to pick up the book, so make it count. Use this space to tease the drama, the romance, the stakes—whatever makes your story unique and irresistible.

5. Keep It Short and Sweet

One of the biggest challenges in writing a blurb is keeping it concise. It’s tempting to include every subplot and nuance, but less is more. Focus on the main plot and the primary emotional arc. The goal is to give readers just enough to intrigue them, not to overwhelm them with details.

6. Remember the Tone

Match the tone of your blurb to the tone of your book. If it’s a lighthearted romance, let that playfulness come through. If it’s more intense, make sure your blurb reflects that. This helps set reader expectations and attracts the right audience for your story.

By following these steps, I’ve found that writing blurbs has gone from being something I dreaded to something I look forward to. It’s become an essential part of my writing process, giving me clarity on the story before I even begin outlining. If you’re an author who struggles with blurbs, give this formula a try. It might just make the whole process a little less daunting—and a lot more fun.

Here’s an example from my novella, Making It Fierce.

“Please, don’t look at me.”

Elijah Stevens once epitomized strength and valor. He spent 14 years of his life in the Marines, but an accident left him disfigured and ashamed. Returning to his hometown, he finds solace in the loving embrace of his grandmother. Frightened of being pitied, he struggles to find meaningful work, until his granny points out he has the voice of an angel.
Now Elijah is a successful audiobook narrator and voice actor. He’s made peace with his life in the shadows, until one day while narrating a romance novel, he realizes he’s never been lonelier in his life.

Lucas Crane hosts a popular radio show, and his soothing voice and sense of humor have earned him a devoted fan base. Lucas never lacks for male attention, but he’s never met a man who held his interest beyond three dates. That changes when he meets an extremely shy voice actor, who insists on recording a commercial in the dark. Intrigued by this mystery man, Lucas pursues him, but soon despairs of ever breaking through the sad man’s walls. Until one day, the barriers to Elijah’s heart begin to crumble.

Making It Fierce is a love story between a stubborn man afraid of his reflection in the mirror, and the bright, funny man who coaxes him out of the shadows. The authors love tropes, and here you’ll find opposites attract, a military man, hurt/comfort, and more.

Happy writing!

Inspired by “Mr. and Mrs. Smith”: The Creation of “Suddenly Single”

If you’re a fan of classic romantic comedies, you might remember the delightful 1941 film “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Yes, you read that right—Hitchcock, the master of suspense, took a surprising detour into the world of screwball comedy with this gem starring Carole Lombard and Robert Montgomery. The story of a couple who discover their marriage isn’t legally valid struck a chord with me and inspired my novel, “Suddenly Single.”

In “Mr. and Mrs. Smith,” the comedic chaos that ensues after the couple learns their marriage certificate is a dud provides the perfect blend of humor and heart. The movie’s playful take on love, commitment, and the trials of marital life got me thinking about the concept of sudden singleness and its impact on relationships.

That’s where the idea for “Suddenly Single” came from. I wanted to explore what happens when life throws an unexpected curveball at a seemingly stable couple. The novel delves into the lives of Asher Bartholomew Yates and Carter Camden Yates, who must navigate the emotional rollercoaster of discovering they aren’t legally married and the personal growth that comes from such a revelation.

Asher comes from one of the first families of Virginia and has just made partner in the family law firm. He went to the right schools, belongs to the right clubs, and like his peers, is happily married—most of the time. The love of his life, Carter, is a handful on the best of days, but Carter’s unwavering devotion and unpredictable antics ensure he will always have Asher’s heart.

Carter is the most successful interior designer in Richmond and is married to an up-and-coming lawyer who looks perfect on his arm. His talents are as colorful as his personality, and he’s the star of any room he enters. He loves Asher more than life itself and hasn’t once regretted getting married.

Out of the blue, a legal mixup jeopardizes everything. After three years of ups and downs, the couple discovers they’re not legally wed. Will this bombshell tear them apart, or will true love win once and for all?

Adding to the chaos is their crazy family: an alcoholic mother, a deranged maid, and a stoner old lady, who all bring their own flavor of drama and humor to the mix. Carter’s theatrical reactions and Asher’s attempts to maintain sanity create a whirlwind of laughs and touching moments.

“Suddenly Single” is the third book in the Southern Discomfort series. It is a gay romantic comedy filled with sweet tea and sour words, served alongside men discovering their deepest desires. This novel has it all: a couple on the rocks, a second chance at happiness, and a love that refuses to die. So relax on your porch swing with a mint julep and a slice of pecan pie, and enjoy the journey to true love.

You can purchase Suddenly Single from Apple Books, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Google Play Books, and Kobo. Oh, and for the month of July, Suddenly Single is 50% off exclusively on Smashwords.

Beauty Within the Beast: A Timeless Tale of Transformation

Breathing New Life into Classic Tales: The Journey Behind “Making It Fierce”

When I sat down to write “Making It Fierce,” I knew I wanted to tap into the timeless magic of a story that has captivated hearts for generations: Beauty and the Beast. There’s something uniquely compelling about the transformative power of love, about two seemingly opposite individuals finding solace, strength, and passion in each other. This age-old tale served as the perfect inspiration for my novella, but with a fresh, modern twist that resonates with today’s readers.

Opposites Attract: Just like the Beast, Elijah Stevens is a character who hides from the world. Once a proud Marine, an accident left him physically and emotionally scarred. His journey is one of self-acceptance and finding the courage to step out of the shadows. Enter Lucas Crane, our modern-day Belle, whose bright spirit and unwavering curiosity set the stage for a romance that’s as healing as it is passionate.

Hurt/Comfort: A central theme in both stories is the delicate balance of hurt and comfort. Elijah’s tough exterior is a defense mechanism against a world he feels will only pity him. But Lucas, with his warmth and humor, slowly chips away at those defenses. Their love story is a testament to the healing power of genuine connection and understanding.

The Magic of Voice: Instead of enchanted roses and talking furniture, the magic in “Making It Fierce” lies in the characters’ voices. Elijah’s rich, soothing voice makes him a successful audiobook narrator, while Lucas’s engaging radio show personality draws people in. Their voices become a bridge, connecting them on a deep, emotional level long before they physically meet.

Breathing New Life into Classics: Reimagining a beloved classic like Beauty and the Beast into an LGBTQ romance was both exhilarating and challenging. The essence of the original—a love that sees beyond the surface—remains intact, but the journey and characters are crafted to reflect contemporary themes and diverse experiences. It’s a delicate dance of honoring the past while forging a path that feels fresh and relevant.

Writing “Making It Fierce” allowed me to explore the timeless themes of acceptance, transformation, and the power of love, but through a lens that speaks to today’s readers. It’s a reminder that even the oldest stories can find new life and meaning when viewed through a different perspective.

What’s Your Favorite Classic?

Now, I want to hear from you! Which classic stories do you think would make amazing LGBTQ romances? I’m always on the lookout for new inspiration and would love to hear your ideas. Email me at ianolewis@cruz-publishing.com and share your favorite tales. Let’s breathe new life into more beloved classics together!

Making It Fierce is currently on sale to celebrate pride month for only .99! You can purchase it on Amazon, Apple Books, Kobo, Google Play, Nook, and Smashwords. Or better yet, purchase it from the Cruz Publishing bookstore where I earn a higher royalty. To learn more about me, and my new releases, sign up for my weekly newsletter and you’ll get a complimentary naughty novelette, Justin’s Penance. It’s the tale of a priest struggling to keep his vows, and the manipulative college student who makes him break them.

Stroke of Genius- How I Create Electrifying Sex Scenes

I might have a thing for this model…

Let’s talk about sex…scenes. How do I turn up the heat on the page? Read on to find out.

Ever wondered what goes into writing those scenes that leave you hot under the collar? Today, I’m pulling back the curtain to give you a glimpse into my process for crafting steamy moments in my romance novels. 

When I first began writing fiction, I started out by writing short erotica stories under the name Enrique Cruz. At the time I was still working a dreadful day job as a dispatcher for a locksmith company. I wrote on the bus rides to and from work, on my lunch breaks, even in bars. You can only imagine what it was like writing sex scenes on a crowded bus full of people. But I was determined to make it as a writer, so I forced myself to get past the embarrassment and just did it. Save your money. The stories I wrote under the pen name Enrique Cruz were horrible. But they served the purpose of erotica: they were sexually stimulating with little regard to actual plotting and character development. 

Setting the Stage

For me, creating the perfect setting for a sex scene is essential. Whether it’s a moonlit beach, a cozy cabin, or a bustling cityscape, the location sets the mood and adds depth to the intimacy between my characters. And if they are well written, they further the romance in the most delicious ways possible.

For example, in my novella Making It Fierce, the main characters begin to have sex behind the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, under a magnolia tree. Yes, outdoor sex is fabulous, but normally most sex scenes begin and end in a bedroom. I had the MCs begin the sex outside as a means of showing how passionate they were feeling about each other, then they rushed home to the safety of Lucas’s apartment, and Elijah lost his virginity. 

Why is Elijah’s virginity so important? Read on to find out.

Character Chemistry

 But it’s not just about the setting—it’s about the chemistry between the characters. Before I even think about writing a sex scene, I spend time developing my characters’ relationships, ensuring that their connection is palpable and their desire for each other is undeniable. 

With Elijah I wanted to show you, the reader, how intense Elijah’s emotions for Lucas were. Elijah had spent years hiding away in his grandmother’s basement because of scars on his face and scalp. He truly never thought he’d meet anyone who could see who he was on the inside. When he finally did, he made himself the most vulnerable he’d ever been, showing you how much he craved Lucas’s love.

It’s a must when writing sex scenes for your characters to have sizzling chemistry. If not, what’s the point of the romance? Nobody wants to read a sex scene that is limp from the start. Trust me on this.

Building Anticipation

One of the most thrilling aspects of writing romance is building anticipation. From flirtatious banter to stolen glances, I love creating tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the moment when my characters finally give in to their desires.

In most of my novels, the main characters don’t do the nasty until they’ve developed feelings for each other. This usually means the sex takes place toward the end of a story, but that’s not always the case. In my upcoming novel Ignited, Finn and Alex are hitting the sheets on the high seas at the beginning of their love story. You’ll have to read the book to understand why I made that choice.

Emotional Connection

At the heart of every sex scene is emotion. Whether it’s longing, vulnerability, or pure passion, I strive to convey the depth of my characters’ feelings as they come together in intimate moments. I typically lean into vulnerability in sex scenes, where one or both of the MCs is making himself vulnerable to the other, and sharing part of himself he rarely does with anyone else.

Sensory Details

To bring my sex scenes to life, I rely on sensory details to immerse readers in the experience. The scent of a lover’s skin, the sound of their heartbeat, the taste of their kiss—each detail adds layers of richness to the scene.

Balancing Explicitness 

Finding the right balance between explicit detail and subtle suggestion is key. While I want my scenes to be steamy and sensual, I also want to leave room for readers’ imaginations to fill in the blanks. With that being said, if I don’t have to stop and take a, um, break, in the middle of writing a sex scene, then I know it’s not very good. You’ll have to guess what I usually do on that break…

Personal Touch

Of course, every writer has their own approach to crafting sex scenes, and mine is no exception. From my unique writing rituals to the inspirations that fuel my imagination, I bring my own personal touch to every scene I write.

Challenges and Rewards

 Writing sex scenes isn’t always easy, but the rewards are well worth the effort. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating a scene that resonates with readers on a deep, emotional level.

Conclusion

So there you have it—the secrets behind my steamy scenes. I hope this glimpse into my writing process has given you a newfound appreciation for the art of crafting romance. Until next time, happy reading!

If you haven’t signed up for my newsletter, do it now and get a free copy of my novella Making It Fit! My newsletter goes out weekly, and features all the news about my upcoming releases, sales, and fun articles like this one.

All About Alex

A couple of weeks ago I interviewed Finn from the upcoming novel, Ignited. This is how I get to know my characters better, and I typically use the style of Andy Warhol’s Interview magazine from back in the 1980s. Now, it’s Alex, the love of Finn’s life turn!

So Alex, If you had to pick a theme song for “Ignited,” what would it be, and why should readers hit play on their preorder to groove along with your story?

If I had to pick a theme song for “Ignited,” it would definitely be “Born This Way” by Lady Gaga. The song speaks to me on a personal level, as I’ve recently come out of the closet and embraced my true self. Just like the lyrics say, I was born to be brave and to embrace who I am, no matter what society says. My journey in “Ignited” mirrors the message of the song—finding the courage to be authentically me, despite the challenges and doubts along the way.

If you could take a road trip with any three characters from “Ignited,” who would  you choose as your co-pilots?

Well Ian, If I could take a road trip with anyone from “Ignited,” it would definitely be Finn, the love of my life. There’s something about hitting the open road with him by my side that just feels right. Plus, I could use the quality time together to deepen our connection and perhaps have a few naughty adventures!

And of course, I couldn’t imagine a road trip without my sister, Willow. She’s not only my sister but also my best friend. Having her along would guarantee endless laughs, heartfelt conversations, and probably a few sibling squabbles along the way. But hey, that’s all part of the fun, right?

Last but not least, I’d have to invite Daniel. Not only is he an incredible friend, but he’s also an amazing cook. I can already picture us pulling over at scenic spots and Daniel whipping up some delicious meals for us to enjoy together. Who wouldn’t want to hit the road with such an awesome crew?

 Imagine you’re stranded on a deserted island with only one character from “Ignited” for company. Who would you want by your side, and why should readers preorder to discover the unlikely alliances formed in your novel?

If I found myself stranded on a deserted island from “Ignited,” there’s only one person I’d want by my side: Finn. Being alone with him, surrounded by nothing but the sound of the waves and the warmth of the sun, sounds like a dream come true. We could explore the island together, build a shelter, and spend our days just enjoying being together.

Just the thought of being alone with Finn fills me with excitement! I can imagine us watching the sunset together, holding hands as we talk about our hopes, dreams, and fears. And as the stars light up the night sky, we’d cuddle close, and do what we love doing best. You’ll have to read the book to know what that is. (wink)

Thanks for agreeing to this interview Alex! I know you’re busy with your many business interests, so I really appreciate you answering a few questions.

If I were being smart I’d keep my mouth shut. But since you twisted my arm I’ll answer your questions.

My big, audacious dream? Well, on the surface, it might seem like I want to rule the world of business. And sure, that’s part of it. I’ve always been driven to succeed, to climb the corporate ladder and make a name for myself. But if I’m being honest, there’s something even bigger driving me—a dream that goes beyond corner offices and boardrooms.

What I really want, more than anything, is to feel comfortable in my own skin. For so long, I’ve hidden behind a mask, afraid to let anyone see the real me. But now, thanks to Finn, I’m starting to shed that mask and embrace who I truly am. He’s shown me that love isn’t about hiding your flaws; it’s about celebrating your strengths and accepting your vulnerabilities.

So, yes, part of my dream is to conquer the business world. But more importantly, it’s about conquering my own insecurities and fears. With Finn by my side, I know I can achieve anything—both in business and in life. He’s not just part of my dream; he’s the heart and soul of it.

This is our last question. What prompted you to go on a gay cruise in the first place?

Why did I choose to go on the bear cruise? Well, let’s just say I had recently experienced a significant shift in my world—a change that left me seeking something I couldn’t quite name. And what better way to embark on a journey of self-discovery than on a gay cruise?

The allure of being surrounded by hot guys, free from the constraints of societal expectations, was too tempting to resist. It felt like an opportunity to explore a part of myself that I had long kept hidden, to embrace a side of me that yearned to break free.

So, I boarded the ship, eager to unravel the mysteries of my own desires and to discover what awaited me on the open sea. And what I found was beyond anything I could have imagined—a voyage of self-discovery, passion, and unexpected connections that would change the course of my life forever.

If you’re intrigued by the allure of the unknown and crave a journey that will keep you guessing until the very end, preorder “Ignited” now and prepare to set sail on an adventure you won’t soon forget. Reserve your copy today from your favorite retailer by clicking here.

I Am Tessa Vidal

Embracing My Truth: Coming Out as Tessa Vidal

Dear readers,

Today, I’m sharing something deeply personal with you all, something that I’ve carried with me for quite some time but never found the courage to express openly. My name is Ian O. Lewis, and I am Tessa Vidal.

For years, I’ve been writing under the pen name Tessa Vidal, crafting stories of love, passion, and connection within the sapphic romance genre. But what many of you may not know is that I am not a woman—I am a gay man.

The decision to write under a female pseudonym was not one made lightly. In fact, it was born out of fear—fear that readers of lesbian fiction would reject my work if they knew the truth about my identity. As a member of the LGBTQ community myself, I felt a deep responsibility to contribute to the representation of queer love in literature. However, I also felt the weight of societal expectations and preconceptions about who should be telling these stories.

I want to make it unequivocally clear that I never intended to exploit readers of lesbian fiction. My decision to write under the name Tessa Vidal was driven by a desire to continue writing and producing fiction for the LGBTQ community, even if it meant doing so under a guise.

Initially, Tessa Vidal was a collaborative effort with other authors, but for the past two years, I’ve been the sole writer behind the name. It has been a journey of self-discovery and growth, and I am immensely proud of the work I’ve created as Tessa Vidal.

One of my favorite books that I’ve written under this pseudonym is “Jody, A Dark Lesbian Romance.” This novel holds a special place in my heart as it tells the tale of two women, both navigating the complexities of their lives as criminals, who find solace and love in each other’s arms.

Moving forward, I want to assure you all that I will continue to write books under both my own name, Ian O. Lewis, and Tessa Vidal. My commitment to telling stories that resonate with the LGBTQ community remains unwavering.

Thank you for your support and understanding as I embrace my truth and continue to share my words with the world. Tessa’s books are available exclusively on Amazon, and can be read for free with a Kindle Unlimited Subscription.

With love and gratitude, Ian O. Lewis (aka Tessa Vidal)

All About Finn McKenna

One of the ways I get to know my characters is to interview them, and for the first time I’m going to share it with you! Growing up in the 1980s, I was addicted to Andy Warhol’s Interview magazine. They always used celebrity interviewers, and while I’m not a celebrity, I will interview Finn McKenna in the same style as the magazine.

Oh, and one more thing. I’m reluctant to attach a picture to this interview, because I prefer readers being able to picture the character in their minds. But, for the sake of beefy manchest, I will attach a picture of what Finn might look like. Now for the interview.

Ian- Finn, thanks so much for agreeing to this interview. I hope you are well today.

Finn- Actually, you forced me into this. I had no choice but to answer your questions. Be that as it may, I’m doing great, except for a tiny headache. I brewed a new batch of beer last night called Moonlit Sonata Stout, and I might have taste tested it a little too much.

Ian- Oh, well you know I love a good beer.

Finn- This stout tastes amazing! Midnight Sonata Stout is a masterful composition of roasted malt, layered with hints of bittersweet cocoa and velvety espresso. Each sip is a crescendo of flavor, building in intensity and depth with every moment.

Ian- If you had to sum yourself up in a tweet-length bio, what would it say?

Finn- Hey there, folks! I’m Finn McKenna, owner of Fireside Forge Brewery in Scott’s Addition. Rugged brewmaster with a passion for crafting extraordinary beers and building community one pint at a time. 🍻 #BrewingWithHeart #CommunityOverEverything

Ian- What’s your big, audacious dream, and what’s fueling your journey towards it?

Finn- Ah, my big dream? Picture this: Fireside Forge Brewery becoming the go-to spot for beer lovers far and wide. I’m talking about creating a haven where folks gather not just for the brews, but for the sense of belonging and camaraderie. Every pint poured here is a step closer to turning that dream into a reality. It’s all about crafting an experience that leaves a lasting impression and brings people together over a shared love of finely brewed beer. That’s the fuel that keeps the fire burning, my friend.

Ian- In the novel Ignited, you go on a bear cruise. I’m assuming you have a thing for burly bear like guys?

Finn- (Laughs) Well, I wouldn’t say no to a burly bear of a guy, that’s for sure! The bear cruise was more about embracing new experiences and stepping out of my comfort zone. But hey, if a handsome, rugged fellow happens to catch my eye along the way, who am I to resist a little adventure? Life’s too short to limit yourself to just one type, don’t you think?

Ian- A hot bear did catch your eye, and his name is Alex.

Finn- I don’t kiss and tell. You’ll have to wait for the story to publish.

Ian- Oh come one, they say love is in the air… any juicy romance rumors you care to confirm or deny?

Finn- (Smiles mysteriously, raising an eyebrow) Well, you know what they say about rumors… Some things are best left to the imagination until the story unfolds. But let’s just say, there may be a few surprises in store when it comes to matters of the heart. You’ll just have to wait and see, won’t you?

Ian- Last question. When readers close the book, what’s the one thing you hope they take away from your journey?

Finn- Ah, when it comes down to it, I guess what I hope readers take away is that love truly does conquer all. Whether it’s love for brewing the perfect beer, love for building a community, or love for someone special, it’s that unwavering passion and connection that drives us forward, even in the face of challenges. So, here’s to raising a glass to love, in all its forms, and the incredible journey it takes us on. Cheers, my friends! 

Preorder your copy of Ignited, the first novel in the burning hearts series at your favorite bookstore by clicking here.