Can you give us a brief overview of your latest book? Is it part of a series? I am excited to share my latest book, Later, with you and your followers. This book is so different from anything I've done before. It's a historical set in 1859 and current in 2022. It's YA as one of the pivotal characters is a 12-year-old enslaved genius, Junie. It's an interracial romance as enslaved Sarah, and ex-Special Forces officer Zachary Trumble create a unique connection across time. It's science fiction and suspenseful because our protagonists are chased across two periods. Ooh, wee...am I sharing too much? Get your copy now and snuggle up in your easy chair for what I consider a great read (IMHO).
Do you have a favorite character?
How do you choose your favorite child? I travailed and birthed each one. I have unconditional love for even the ones who are bad to the bone. How could a good mother not love them all in spite of themselves?
Have you ever had a minor character evolve into a major one? Did that change the direction of the novel at all?
Did the character become the hero/heroine of their own book?
Later was a book about two adults in a forbidden love affair. Then comes the little heroine's younger brother, Junie. He's wily, strategic, humorous, and flawed. He grew on me, and his role expanded in the book. He brings justice to an unjust system. I want to know Junie in reality.
Did you try the traditional route to publishing, i.e. querying agents/publishers?
Yes. I have traditional books and an agent and Later is on audio through a traditional publisher. However, Later is also my first indie published book in paper and e-book format. I'm taking an opportunity to do this myself and step out on faith.
How long before you got your offer of representation/your first contract? Was it for your first novel?
Yes, my first novel was picked up a month after my agent shopped it. The stars aligned.
What factors influenced your decision to go with a particular agent or publisher?
My first agent was introduced to me by someone I trusted in the industry. She's a New York Times best selling author and has several books to film. It was a wonderful opportunity. I'm grateful. My new agent is someone I met in the industry who works with hybrid authors who want to do something different in choosing what is under contract and what is an author's indie effort. I find it the best of both worlds.
Briefly describe your journey in writing your first or latest book. Have you joined any FB author groups to inspire and help you along the way?
I fell and broke my ankle in three places. Bed bound, Later evolved from an idea to my newest novel. I'm in numerous Facebook author groups, and I love supporting their work and hearing the latest publishing news through their connections. They are also instrumental in providing tidbits of literary knowledge that enhance my skills. I've learned so much.
What factors influenced your decision to self-publish your book(s)?
Like most people, you weigh the pros and cons and then take an educated step toward your pros. I did the work to the best of my ability and didn't skimp on editors, book covers, or interior design. I'm praying I can put Later in enough hands for my indie debut to be profitable.
If you used a graphic designer/publisher’s designer, how involved were you during the creative process for your cover?
I was very involved. My first cover and designer didn't work. I lost money, but I wanted my cover art to draw an audience. My current book cover is the result of a lot of research to find the right designer. After outstanding communication and her expertise in fulfilling the vision, I was more than pleased. She's amazing!
What is your writing process? Do you listen to music or do you like silence?
Silence is golden. However, when I write something that has me dancing around, a little celebratory jig is in order!
Do you outline your story or just go where your muse takes you?
I start with a seat of my pants flow. Once I get the gist of where I'm headed, I outline. Then I promptly dismantle the outline as I continue to write because, at heart, I'm a pantser.
Did you hire an editor to review your manuscript before publishing?
My manuscript went through three levels of editing. It's costly, but my readers deserve it. My editors are professionals with contracts with multiple publishers. One of them was my editor at the publishing agency where I had my former contract, and she's someone I trust.
What have you’ve learned during your self-publishing journey?
I learned I didn't know half of what I thought I did. Thank goodness for the right people being open to guiding this journey.
Is your book available in audio format? Briefly describe how your narrator was chosen?
Yes, it's in audio. This was a contract I have with an audio publisher; they picked the narrator. I'm looking forward to the reaction from my listeners.
Do you find it difficult to juggle your time between marketing your current book and writing your next book? Do you try to write everyday or carve out certain times during the week?
I write Monday through Friday, even if it's editing what I've just written. I also write in creative spurts, at 2 am, on weekends, on my phone . . .
What advice would you give a new author just entering the self-publishing arena?
Don't skimp on quality. You'll have to spend money for skilled, experienced assistance. It's so worth it. Research your choices and trust their guidance. Attend workshops, read well-reviewed writer's how to books.
Besides writing, do you have any other passions?
Reading! It's fundamental. I'd rather be reading than most extracurricular activities.
Some fun facts about you, which do you prefer – dogs or cats? Chocolate or vanilla? Coffee or Tea? Talk or Text? Day or Night
I love this list. Let's go! Dog. Vanilla (does that make me boring?). Tea. Talk. Day and night.
What’s next for you?
I'm going to finish my book, A Life Kissing Frogs. It's a grown-up romantic comedy fairy tale. Yessss!!!
BOOK BLURB:
In 1859, Junie Benson was a twelve-year-old genius and enslaved. His older sister, Sari, had her own difficulties, including being auctioned to the highest bidder. She was also beautiful, flighty, and had a repetitive dream about a hazel-eyed white stranger.
Everybody with the good sense God had given them knew even her dream was forbidden.
In 2022, three things troubled ex-Special Forces Lt. Colonel Zachary Trumble . . . his new job as director of security for Burstein Labs, his loveless marriage, and the green-eyed siren who won’t let him sleep in peace.
Then time’s fickle hand brewed a recipe for a miracle . . . Stir in three runaway slaves, an avalanche, one mad scientist, and an unhappy, in-love hero to create a dish for revenge best served . . . Later.
Book Information
Release Date: September 1, 2022
Publisher: Intentional Entertainment LLC
Soft Cover: 204 pages; (Price TBA); eBook $4.99
About the Author
Colette R. Harrell made her debut as an author with the book; The Devil Made Me Do It. As a published author, she has enjoyed meeting her readers; for her, it’s all surreal. She holds a master’s degree and worked as a director of social services, which allowed her a front-row seat to the conflict and struggles of everyday people.
Her day is filled as an Author, Playwright, Story Editor, Wife, Mother, Grandmother, and child of God. She wears many titles allowing twenty-four hours a day to meet the challenge.
Her goal in writing is to engage readers and provide them with golden nuggets of wisdom that feed and titillate. Her biggest lesson is that it takes a village to raise a dream. She loves and appreciates her village.
She prays everything God has for you manifests in your life. And that you stretch and reach for it!
Colette’s latest book is the historical/interracial/supernatural/paranormal Later.
You can visit her website at Coletteharrell.com or connect with her on Twitter, Facebook, Goodreads or Instagram.
