Today, I’m hosting Rachel Tamayo. She’s on a blog tour to promote her latest book, a 92 page novella, Once Upon a Kiss. It was just released by Foster Embry Publishing. Rachel has written romance, paranormal, and thrillers. When she’s not writing, you can usually find her with her family. She’s Mom to two small kids and has been married 14 years. Her full time profession as a 911/police dispatcher in the Houston area gives her an interesting perspective into people that others might not have. Rachael was born and raised in Southeast Texas, where she lives with her family.
As part of the tour, I was given a pre-release copy of Once Upon a Kiss. I loved it! See my review at the end of the interview.
About the book:
Why did you decide to write this book?
Writing thrillers is hard, so sometimes between thrillers I like to write a romance to clean my brain, so to speak. Like cleansing the pallet so you can really get into the darkness of the next thriller.
What genre is your book?
Contemporary Romance
Do you consider your book character-driven or plot-driven?
I think it’s really both. I write in deep POV, and this gives my characters layers and flaws and makes them easy for the readers to connect to. But what good is a great character with no place to take them? I like fast paced, so that’s what I write. You won’t find useless filler in my books, they are all page turners!
What makes your book unique?
I like to call this one a reverse fairy tale. What that means, is the damsel is in distress—but this time she saves herself, and him too! She’s a strong woman, she was born in Israel, and she’s not taking any crap, but she’s still very likable.
Do you plot ahead of time, or let the plot emerge as you write?
Although I have tried, I can’t outline my books. I’m what’s called a “pantser.” It comes to me as I write. Very often what I end up with is totally different than what I intended when I sit down to start a book. I let the story write itself.
How do you develop the names for your characters?
Easy, I Google baby name sites and scroll until I find one I like.
How do you decide on the setting?
My books are all set in Texas, that is where I am, it’s what I know.
Do you have a writing mentor?
Nope.
What’s your writing schedule? Do you have a favorite place to write?
I can write anywhere, anytime the mood hits. I use OneDrive, just so I can write anywhere. I’ve written on my phone waiting in a doctor’s office before. As a “pantser” it’s the only way. I can’t force wordcount, or a writing schedule. My books don’t come out well when I try to do that. I have to wait for the story to talk to me.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I’ve had so many tell me “just write” or that it doesn’t matter, just put words on paper. I have to say that isn’t right for everyone. I can’t write without purpose. I’ll start over again and again until it’s right. I actually ended up writing Release (my September short erotic book that just released) in one draft. So, if you are a budding writer, there is no right or wrong way. YOU DO YOU, as they say. Learn from everything, every mistake, every book, and make the next one better. Listen to editors and don’t keep making the same mistakes. This is how you grow.
Where can readers find you?
Website: Rachel Tamayo Writes
Twitter: @rtamayo2004
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamayorachael/
Nancy’s review: 5 stars
What a fun book! It truly is a reverse fairy tale. Instead of being saved, the princess is the one doing the saving. The main character, Talia, has grit and determination. Once she’s left high and dry at the altar, she manages, with the help of her bridesmaids and a healthy does of tequila, to keep her dignity intact. Running into Jessie, an old boyfriend, one she never really got over, helps.
But the relationship with her ex doesn’t end at the altar. When she discovers he’s been scamming her for months, she comes up with a way to turn the tables. But things get complicated….!
I really enjoyed how the author moved the story along. I love the eye-catching cover. The book is fast-paced, and an easy, engaging read. The erotic sections are very well done. Definitely recommend.
Nancy Wood 