Emma Leigh Reed has lived in New Hampshire all her life. She has fond memories of the Maine coastline and incorporates the ocean into all her books. She lives in a small town with her husband and three children. Her life has been touched and changed by her son’s autism – she views life through a very different lens than before he was born. Growing up as an avid reader, it was only natural for Emma Leigh to turn to creating the stories for others to enjoy.
Where did you get your inspiration for Crashing Hearts? My inspiration for this story came from my son who is autistic. Originally I wanted to write his story, but it was still too painful so I choose to weave his story into a contemporary romance.
Who are the characters in Crashing Hearts? Kira Nichols, mom to autistic son, Jared. Grant Rutledge, contractor.
What is your writing process? I’m a panster. I tried to have a loose plot with Crashing Hearts, but Kira and Grant decided the story was going to go in a different direction.
How long was your Journey to publication? I started writing and finished the first draft in seven months. Lots of revisions and learning the craft before three years later it was bought by Whiskey Creek Press.
Do you have any advice for authors and aspiring authors? Keep writing even when you feel you can’t. Write something. Keep the creative juices flowing.
Did you ever enter any contests? What are your thoughts on writing contests? The first contest I entered, The Lone Star, I placed third with Crashing Hearts. I have entered a couple others, but never placed. I think contests are great, as long as you take little stock in the feedback. I have had scores ranging from terrible to great on the same story. Feedback to tell me it was great, to saying they just didn’t get it. Stay true to your voice and don’t let judge feedback influence major changes.
Now that Crashing Hearts released, what is next for you? What projects are you working on now? I have a romantic suspense, Mirrored Deception, just about ready for submission – goal to have it submitted is February 1st. I also have another untitled story (another romantic suspense) about a quarter of the way finished.
Thank you for being with us today!
Buy at Amazon (ebook) or print and ebook through Whiskey Creek Press
