Monday, April 17, 2023

INTERVIEW with GIORGIA BLAKE


I want to thank Giorgia Blake for taking the time for this interview!


BIO:

I'm a contemporary romance author with more than a dozen books published under the pen name Louise Lennox.

But as Giorgia, I am dedicated to the dangerously delicious world of Mafia Romance. Every story dares you to believe in the power of love, even when there doesn't seem to be one sane reason to do so!

 

My stories feature sexy alphas and smart heroines finding love in the most breath stealing of circumstances. If someone can't die at any moment-it's not a Giorgia Blake romance!

Every plot is full of heat, raw passion, and CONSENSUAL sex that would make the Karma Sutra Blush.

So come join me on this wild ride...you won't regret it!



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

I remember falling in love with writing my eighth year in Ms. Buchanan’s English Class. She utilized Writer’s Workshop in her instruction, and I was hooked. This form of expression is addictive.


Did you have any influencing writers growing up?

So many! But as far as romance and/or women’s fiction goes, my mainstay was Terry McMillan. 

Her heroines were unapologetically beautiful and comfortable in their skin. I also loved any and everything by Jodi Pocoult.


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

In one way, yes. My characters on based on real emotions and human motivations. They are very real to me. 

On the other hand, no because my mafia romances are pure fantasy.


Where do you draw your book inspirations from?

I am addicted to mafia documentaries and real-life love stories. Between the two, I have books for days.


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

I’ve never met an outline I didn’t love.


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

Yes!


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

A great Kindle Unlimited Romance!


Who are your favorite current authors to read?

Serena Akeroyd, Stephanie Nicole Norris, and Jill Ramsower.


What are your favorite books by others?

Right now, Serena’s Filthy Series is top of mind.


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

Yes! Italy’s Amalfi Coast is one of my favorite vacation destinations! 

I just celebrated my 40th birthday in Ravello last year. Italy’s southern coast is breathtaking! 

I also spent seven years in Chicago for graduate school and policy work. The Southside will always be dear to my heart.


Do you write in single or multiple POV?

Single


What do you find to be your best research tool?

Google and documentaries


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

Yes my mafia romances are under the name Giorgia Blake.

But I also have twelve steamy and delightful #HappyBlackRomances under the pen name Louise Lennox. My most popular series is my Ashanti royal Romance: Sexy Sovereign.


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

Romance, because all we really need is love!


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

I am a Spelman College graduate. Attending a single sex college with 500 other affirming beautiful Black women, made me that believe I could do anything. So, I did!


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

My husband is my content editor, and it’s the perfect working relationship!


What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?

Write every day and the book will come!


How do you deal with and process negative book reviews?

I don’t spend a lot of time reading them. I focus on the positive reviews and take constructive feedback from those invested in my success. That feedback isn’t always good, I always have room to grow. However, that feedback can be trusted!


What is the most difficult part of your writing process?

Sticking the beginning. The hook matters the most!


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

Lattes, Lattes, and more Lattes.


What is your naughty indulgence as you are writing?

Hot Tamales


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

Toni Morrison. She’s gone to glory, but she’s the GOAT.

I also think the mafia romance author Zoe Blake would be LOADS of fun. Her books send me!


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

I write from 9:00pm to 11:00 pm daily.


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

No.


Have pets ever gotten in the way of your writing?

No, my cat Figueroa keeps my feet warm!


What is your kryptonite as a writer? What totally puts you off your game?

Online shopping!


Have you ever killed off a character that your readers loved?

No!


How do you celebrate after typing THE END?

By starting revisions. It’s my favorite part of the publishing process!

 

I hope you enjoyed this interview!

Check out all my interviews/reviews for Giorgia Blake!


Make sure to give Giorgia Blake a shout out and FOLLOW her on social media!


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