What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write this book?
I really wanted to write this one because I think big brothers get a bad rap. They really do care for their sisters and all of their younger siblings, and they always feel the need to protect them. I see that in my family and in my husband’s family. He is the oldest, and his sisters made their choices despite his objections, but they still come to him to complain. My brothers didn’t care for my husband at first, but then they were happy to have a younger brother. In both cases, the guys all admit that they never felt any of the men their sisters dated were good enough, and they definitely would not have approved of any of their friends dating their sisters. I just always found that hard to understand. I thought writing this book would add clarity. I chose to make the hero an athlete because athletes and rock stars are often seen as the biggest threat when it comes to your sister.
They seem to have women competing for their attention, and that can make it difficult to trust their intentions. I just wanted to show that athletes are like most people—they want that one person to build a life with and grow old with. I think they just need time to grow into that stage of life. The lead female in this book, and in all of my stories, is a capable, accomplished professional who is not looking for someone to save her from being single. She is like most women in that she wants a partner to build a life with and grow alongside. Life is more fun when you have loved ones to share it with. The good news is that you can always love someone; just manage your expectations about what you get back in return. Don’t withhold love. We all need it.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of your book, what would they be?
Jaden: “Speechless” by Dan + Shay — when he realizes he’s in love.
Renee: “This Kiss” by Faith Hill — pure Renee energy: playful, happy, butterflies.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I do love reading and writing about sweet romance. I want my young people to understand that it’s not all about what you look like, wear, or where you live, etc. It’s how you treat others and how you let others treat you. Love yourself first, and others will love you too. If they can’t or won’t, move on to those who can and will. You’ll find so much joy in living that way.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
I am always waiting for the next story in Beverly Jenkins’s Blessings series, set in the town of Henry Adams, Kansas. This series was brought to my attention by my sister. I never really trusted her taste, but she was definitely right about this one.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
For each book I write, my favorite scene is how the couple first meets. It appears at the very beginning of the book and always involves some type of calamity.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I must have a bag of unsalted, shelled pistachios and a mug of herbal tea on my desk. Peeling the pistachios helps me think, and eating them, of course, requires a flavorful beverage.
Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?
That everybody’s right. It’s all about their perspective. Every person has their own perspective based on their biology, environment, experiences, and teachings. So the best way to get what you want is to understand what your adversaries want and why. Understanding this aids in your personal growth, your understanding of others, and your ability to communicate better.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
We’re all in this thing (life) together. Learning to get along will make it more enjoyable. So, don’t sweat the small stuff.
