Author Spotlight: Suzanne Brandyn

Today we have Australian author Suzanne Brandyn here to tell us all about her books, and answer the Minxes questions - take it away Suzanne!

Where were you in your writing career 5 years ago?

Five years ago I had a dream, a dream to be published. I learned everything I could about writing romance. I wanted to see my name in the Romance Writers of Australia’s Hearts Talk magazine. I studied and studied ‘how to’ of romance writing. Last year I had my first romance novel published. My name not only appears as a published author in the magazine, but I’m now also a member of their editorial team.

Where did you get the idea from for this particular book?
It is based around the town I was born. I love the area; love the mountains and the wide river. So I took my heroine back home, where she faces her past and obstacles arise making her think twice about her life.

Where do you hope to be in 5 years time?
I think a lot of authors would say a famous author. But to be sensible, I’d love to have at least another ten novels published with a bigger publishing house.

Which was the last book you read that you wish you'd written?
I had to laugh at this question. Lol. Still grinning. The Twilight Series, who wouldn’t?

Was there any particular author or book that made you want to be a writer?
Nora Roberts’s stories and style inspired me to want to write my own novels.

Do you find writing love scenes giggle-worthy or cringe-worthy?
I have no trouble in writing them at all. They are worthy to a story if that story requires one. Love is universal. I don’t feel it different to writing a passionate kiss scene.

What's the most romantic moment of your life so far?
I think getting married in Hawaii two years ago was very romantic. It was a perfect, romantic time. The weather, delivered on a blue platter, the music romantic. It was my dream come true.

What do you wish you'd known about being an author before you were pubbed?
I wished I knew more about the promotional side of publishing. It takes a lot of writing hours away. I enjoy it though and I’m having book signings and library talks within the next few months.

What's the best writing advice you've ever been given?
Trust your gut feeling. Write what you like reading. If you believe in your manuscript, so will an editor.

Tell us about your latest release.
Have you ever misplaced something? Has it taken you ages to find where it is? ‘Usually what you’re searching for is right before your eyes.’
Thinking she has it all, the perfect life, the perfect career, and the perfect fiancé. Sarah Munro questions all when she returns to her hometown, and to the man she left behind so many years ago.
Both characters have a secret, and it’s up to them to come to terms with the past or grab onto it and yank it into the future. They try to settle their differences but a raging attraction ignites. That attraction has been smoldering for years.

What’s next for you?
I hope that my next manuscript will be published. It is set on a property in the New England Region of NSW, Australia, a property where I lived. It is a suspense novel with romantic elements, about a woman escaping domestic violence and returning to a property she inherited by her recently departed mother. She faces many obstacles. It will be a great read. I’m also about to start another. So I’ll be busy. Lol.

You can find out where to purchase Heat in the Outback at Suzanne's website, http://www.suzannebrandyn.com/  and Suzanne is giving a free print copy to one lucky commenter.

Heat in the Outback is available now from Eternal Press, and Passion in Paradise is available from The Wild Rose Press.

Thank you so much for joining us here at the Minxes of Romance today, Suzanne!