Today I’m interviewing Diva Jefferson. Her book, To Love An Irishman is a historical romance with paranormal elements and was released on March 17th, 2012.
Over ten years ago, I read my first romance novel. I believe it was A Rose In Winter by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss. I loved her writing style, the way her characters talked, and the details laden within the story. I loved mysterious heroes, and beautiful heroines who need their love in return. Five years later, an idea generated a story in my head and I wrote a novel.
Life gives us so much throughout the years. We have an opportunity to learn, grow, and adapt to changes. Stories give us an opportunity to read someone else’s life. To see what they see, and experience what they experience. Sometimes they empower us.
My road to publication hit rock bottom after I wrote my first novel. Rejection after rejection kept pouring in, but I never gave up. So I tried self-publishing. Yes, it took more work, but my story was told to those who’d read it. I just wanted people to read it.
Last year, my new year’s resolution was to find a publisher or an agent. Of course, I took a pitch course and queried different editors. Soon all I needed to do was to wait. A few months later, I received a manuscript request, and then offered a contract in May. I continued an agent search, but realized I could do it alone. Now I am able to reach so many more readers and like before, I have another opportunity to share my story with everyone. This is why I’ve become a published author. I love sharing my stories!
Isn’t it wonderful when dreams comes true? Having achieved your goal to be a published author, what is the most rewarding thing?
The most rewarding thing about being a published author is not only reaching more readers, but I am able to provide my experience to help others reach their goals. Before, I could only guess what happens from query letter to contract and contract to publishing. Now I have so much more information to give!I call that Paying It Forward. Helping another writer is something I try to accomplish as well. I found the most help within my local Romance Writers of America chapter. Are you a member of any writing organizations and, if so, have they helped?
I am a member of Romance Writers of America, Celtic Hearts Romance Writers, and the South Carolina Writer’s Workshop. SCWW is my local critique group, and without their ongoing guidance my rejection letters would’ve drained my confidence. With RWA and CHRW, I am able to connect with those who write in my genre, and I know if questions arise, there is always someone willing to help. It’s always good to have writers on your side. If you could join a group, you won’t regret it!Now let’s talk about the gritty part of publishing a book. What sort of promo do you do? Do you have help?
I use Facebook and Twitter for most of my promo. I create book trailers, mention my books in new blogs, and constantly update all social networks with current book news.Sounds time consuming and some writers find they have little time to write their next book. What’s next for you?
I am currently writing two novels. One is a sequel to my first self-published work, and the second is a Scottish romance taking place during the Jacobite Rising of 1745. Glad to hear you have kept busy and, as my readers know, I have a soft-spot for all things Scottish! Cannot wait!
BOOK BLURB
She is left with an offer she cannot refuse...
Upon his death in 1823, English nobleman, Lord Peyton leaves his daughter Lady Aveline with two choices—stay single and inherit only a small farm in Ireland, where she might just be able to eke out a living, or get married and live in luxury, inheriting all his wealth and property. Fiercely independent, Aveline heads for Ireland only to run afoul of her father’s farm manager, the devastatingly handsome Ciaran O’'Devlin. Alone in a strange country, Aveline yearns for love and friendship, but Ciaran offers only criticism and disdain. Confused and angered by strange visions and her growing attraction to Ciaran, Aveline is determined to make the farm prosper—despite the insufferable Irishman.
He has a secret he cannot reveal...
Ciaran mistrusts Aveline’s intentions and refuses to admit that a willful, English woman now owns the farm that should have been his. Although he insists Aveline should go back to England, he cannot deny their budding passion. Yet, he knows—even if she doesn’t—that nothing will come of it. Not only can’t a poor Irishman marry an English noblewoman, but when Aveline learns of his past, she’ll want nothing more to do with him. Ciaran has always known that each decision carries a consequence, but it’s only when he stands to lose Aveline that he realizes what a heavy price his past decisions may have.
AUTHOR BIO
Diva Jefferson was born in sunny Orlando, FL. Later, she moved to South Carolina where she currently resides. She lives with her amazing cat named Muffin and her fiancé, Connor.
She has a colorful relationship with the romance genre. She’s been writing for over ten years and wouldn't trade it for the world. She is a member of the National Romance Writers of America, Celtic Hearts Romance Writers, and the South Carolina Writer's Workshop. She truly believes that life is a journey worth making.
HOW CAN MY READERS BUY YOUR BOOK?
Readers can go to
You can find more information about Diva Jefferson and my
book, To Love An Irishman by visiting
my website, http://divajefferson.com
or my blog at http://diva-jefferson.blogspot.com.
book, To Love An Irishman by visiting
my website, http://divajefferson.com
or my blog at http://diva-jefferson.blogspot.com.
Twitter: www.twitter.com/diva_jefferson
Facebook: www.facebook.com/divajeffersonThanks so much to joining me today, Diva!
Nancy
