Reading by Deb: INTERVIEW with ZOE BLAKE

I want to thank Zoe Blake for taking the time for this interview! BIO: USA Today Bestselling author, Zoe Blake, delights in writing Dark Romance books filled with overly-possessive Billionaires, Taboo scenes and Unexpected twists. She usually spends her ill-gotten gains on martinis, travel and red lipstick. Since she can barely boil water, she’s lucky enough to be married to a sexy Chef.

When and how did you know you wanted to be a writer?

Like most most romance readers, I think I’ve always fantasied about writing my own stories.

Did you have any influencing writers growing up?

Pretty much all the fabulous OG Bodice rippers.

Are any of your characters based on people in real life?

If they were, I’m pretty sure they’d be in jail or probably in a lair deep in a mountain somewhere.

Where do you draw your book inspirations from?

My own twisted little mind.

I typically think of classic romantic themes and then wonder how I can ramp it up and make them darker, edgier with more dramatic twists.

Do you have a basic outline when starting a new story or do you let the characters lead the way?

I have an extremely detailed outline.

I do an extensive amount of research before I start each book and that includes doing a very long plot outline.

When you are picturing the characters in your book, do you have a cheater photo for inspiration?

Occasionally, but not often. Once in a blue moon I’ll come across a photo and think, that would make a great character, but I don’t seek them out.

Many people read as a form of escape and relaxation. What is your favorite way to sit back and relax?

I like to read. I also love historical documentaries.

Who are your favorite current authors to read?

Alta Hensley, Natasha Knight, Charmaine Pauls, A. Zavarelli and Anna Zaires.

What are your favorite books by others?

See above. I basically adore their dark and twisted minds. I think I have all their books in paperback.

Do the locations in the stories have any meaning to you?

Yes. Many of my books are based in London, a city I absolutely adore.

Do you write in single or multiple POV?

Multiple POV.

What do you find to be your best research tool?

I’m a book person. So, I don’t rely on the internet as much as you may think.

Before starting a series, I tend to go a bit overboard in ordering a ton of research books on the food, culture, language, geography, literature, etc. of a place.

Do you write under a pen name? Also, do you write under more than one name?

Yes. I write under Zoe Blake and then my earlier super erotic books are under my Sasha Byrne pen name.

What genre do you write and why is this your preference?

Dark Romance. I prefer really OTT possessive, morally grey anti-heroes.

Tell me something about yourself outside of writing. Jobs, accomplishments, family, quirky trait...what led to you being you?

Before writing, I was an event planner for large corporate events and weddings and before that I was a very popular bartender at a swanky Mafia club in Philly.

If you are a duo writing team, how do you share the writing process?

I mostly write on my own, but I do occasionally pair up with my best friend, Alta Hensley. We usually switch chapter by chapter.

What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Do your research into the market. And take advice from other well-meaning authors.

Too often I see new authors brush off advice from more established authors and it is sad because we are just trying to help.

How do you deal and process negative book reviews?

I don’t. One person’s trash is another’s treasure.

What is the most difficult part of your writing process?

Distractions. Writing is a business and some days it is difficult balancing the admin needs of the business with your need to write.

What do you need in your writer’s space to keep you focused?

Hot chocolate and classic music.

What is your naughty indulgence as you are writing?

Hot chocolate. hahahaha

If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose? And why?

Alta Hensley.

She is my ride or die bestie. We share the same brain and I never give up a chance to hang out with her. (We live on opposite sides of the country.)

What is your schedule like when you are writing? Do you have a favorite writing snack or drink?

Again, hot chocolate. Like I really love the stuff. Chef Hubby has to drop everything and head to the store if we run out in the middle of a writing day. I don’t snack or eat at my desk.

Do you listen to music when you write – what kind of music is your favorite?