Contemporary romance author C. R. Riley is celebrated for creating worlds and characters that don’t always follow the rules, including those she futilely tries to set herself. But the best characters always find a way around them, often surprising her with their willingness to make each and every journey unique, if not emotionally satisfying.
Her Kohl Family series has been called the perfect epitome of contemporary romance with a twist of the unexpected. The characters tackle tough topics while making you fall in love with them, and despising those baddies who deserve it. Each story is a unique standalone. That carries over in her Modern-Day Royals series, which features characters who are unlike any royal put to the page before. And of course, combining her love of football and baseball she adds a steamy sports romance, Love of the Game which follows a family of athletes on their separate journeys to find true love.
When and how did you know you wanted to be a writer?
I never knew I wanted to be one. I was an avid romance reader for a few years and these stories started popping in my head. So I decided to sit down and see if I could write one, and then another, and it spiraled from there. Once I woke the voices in my head they took over. I was 41 when I started.
Did you have any influencing writers growing up?
No. I hated reading as a kid. It wasn’t easy for me and the books my mother let me read didn’t really hold my interest.
Are any of your characters based on people in real life?
All my characters hold personality traits of people I know, some a mixture of a few. No one is solely based on one person.
Where do you draw your book inspirations from?
Life. I use my life experiences or those of my family and friends. I have a degree in social sciences and have worked with families going through tough times. Not every situation turned out the way I wish it had, probably why I like writing the HEA endings. I think every person deserves one.
Do you use have a basic outline when starting a new story or do you let the characters lead the way?
I let the characters lead me down the path of the unknown. It can get really crazy sometimes. There are times I wish I could plot it all out, but when I try they never cooperate. I think you are either a plotter or pantser. I am full on panster.
When you are picturing the characters in your book, do you have a cheater photo for inspiration?
Most of the time no. I have a hard time later finding someone who looks like how I picture them. Most of the time I can only find someone close but not exactly how I see them in my head. I want my readers to use their imagination, that is what is so fun about books, you can make them look how you want in your head.
Many people read as a form of escape and relaxation. What is your favorite way to sit back and relax?
I love to sit on my couch with my EarPods in and let the world fall away around me. If I lived on a beach, I’d be outside, but sadly I don’t.
Who are your favorite current authors to read?
That is such a hard one to answer. I’m a mood reader. I read all types of romance tropes, different steam levels even. So I can’t pick one. Plus, I love reading new authors, discovering them gets me very excited.
What are your favorite books by others?
Hush by Mica Rae (I’m Yours Series)
This Man series by Jodi Ellen Malpas
Quantum Series by Marie Force
Nichole French any of her books
The Walsh series by Kate Canterbary
I could keep going. I have so many go to authors I gravitate to when I need a certain kind of book.
Do the locations in the stories have any meaning to you?
Sometimes. I’ve been to Washington DC, New York, Chicago, & Denver. But most of the time I pick the places where I think the stories best fit. I also create fake towns so I can make them how I want them to be.
Do you write in single or multiple POV?
I write in several different formats. My first few books are third person. Then I switched over to first dual POV. I like first better, it keeps me focused on what is happening between the two main characters and keeps me from getting lost with a few side ones.
What do you find to be your best research tool?
People. Talking to those who work the jobs or have experienced what you are trying to write about will give you the best information out there. The internet can often mislead you, although it is a great tool as well.
Do you write under a pen name? Also, do you write under more than one name?
Not really. I use my initials and my last name. I show my face. There is no hiding who I am, not in today’s world.
What genre do you write and why is this your preference?
Romance. I write about some tough subjects but use romance to help me tell my stories. We all want to escape from reality and a good story to get lost in. Imperfect lives are part of reality and getting lost in a book that makes you feel is the best. I hate emotions in real life but I love reading a book that makes me face them.
Tell me something about yourself outside
of writing. Jobs, accomplishments, family, quirky traits...what led to you
being you?
I am a mom of two kids, nine years apart. Married my high school sweetheart after dragging him along for five years—sucker. We’ve been married 26 years and he’s my best friend, one of the few people I can stand to be around for extended periods of time. I like my space and only socialize when forced to do so. I think I could live in a secluded area and be very happy. Don’t get me wrong I like people, but I’m better in small groups. Crowds make me nervous, especially if I’m expected to interact with them. I hate public speaking. And even though I’m loud and obnoxious with those closest to me, I’m the opposite with those who don’t know me. I often come off as a snob, when in reality I’m just reserved and getting comfortable with my surroundings.
What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?
Don’t let anyone tell you can’t do something. Don’t let one person’s opinion discourage you. Be you. Write the story you want to write and find those who get you to help you make it even better. There is an audience for every author, you just have to find yours.
How do you deal with and process negative book reviews?
I do my best to ignore them. There will always be those who don’t like your books. Focus on the people who do, those are the ones you are writing for.
What is the most difficult part of your writing process?
Writing the climax of the story. You have to get it perfect and most times it’s hard for us pansters to do that. Lots of writing and deleting while you are working it all out in your head.
What do you need in your writer’s space to keep you focused?
Music.
Have
pets ever gotten in the way of your writing?
No, but my kids have. Part of being a mom and wife. I wouldn’t change it though. My dog just sleeps and chills, she’s fourteen, life is all about sleeping at her age.
How do you celebrate after typing THE END?
I don’t type those words. I never want it to be that final. But I celebrate finishing a WIP with a smile and the knowledge I’ve done something so many others haven’t. I’ve written a book, a full length one in my case. My books are often close to or over 100k, my characters have a lot to say and share. And then I grab a book to read and get lost in it, knowing the long process of edits is coming and that can be draining.
Check out my review of the following books by CR Riley!
SNEAKY QUARTERBACK (Love of the Game - Book One)
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CONNECT W/CR:
Email: c.r.rileyauthor@gmail.com
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