Elina Emerald

Tell us a little bit about yourself, your hobbies and interests.

I live in Australia. I write romantic suspense in different subgenres. I play guitar. Museums, castles, and old buildings interest me. I love a good story, and you can find some gems in the history of an old building.

When and why did you start writing books?

I wrote my first book during the 2020 pandemic lockdowns. It was a way to pass the time and keep calm amid great personal upheaval. I guess I caught the writing bug after that.

What made you decide to tackle writing as a career?

After I released my second book, I just had an inkling that if I gave this writing thing a red hot go, with 100% focus, I might see some rewards. It worked, and I was able to turn an unlikely hobby into a career.

Which one of your books or characters is your favourite?

'Orla the Orphan' from 'Handfasted to the Bear' is my favorite character. She is a feisty, witty woman of color living in medieval times with a rich backstory. She also introduced me to the historical world of medieval Warrior Queens. 'Arrowsmith' is my favorite book. I guess I'm a fan of second chance love stories.

Which one of your books was the hardest to write and stretched you the most as a writer?

I struggled with 'Lachlan.' It was my first book where I knew the beginning before the end. I usually write my books backward. I start at the end and work my way to the start. When I can see how something ends, it's so much easier to figure out how the characters got there. Lachlan just threw me because I saw the opening scene first, and I had to work my way through to the end. I felt unhinged the whole time because it was not how I usually write.

Who is your favourite author and book?

I have so many fave authors, but I would have to say Kristen Ashley is right up there on the list. I think she's a genius for creating memorable characters in different subgenres. As for books, one of my classic faves is 'Jane Ayre' by Charlotte Bronte. It's the historical version of a great dark (billionaire) romance.

What book are you reading right now?

Nothing at the moment. I am back in full writing mode for an upcoming book, and I find I just cannot read anything while I'm in production mode. It is too distracting.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

Inspiration is all around me. I might be watching a movie or having a conversation with a friend in a cafe, even hanging the clothes, and something might trigger a thought or an idea. The next thing I know, I'm picturing a scene, and I'm hearing a character's voice talking to me.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I love doing touristy things. Road trips to small country towns. A day cruise on Sydney harbor. Checking out some new bar that just opened—doing a tour of wineries.

Do you have any new books in the works?

Yes, I have a new sci-fi romance series coming out called 'Friven Empire.' I've been working on the first two books for that series, namely 'The Eleventh House' and 'The Vedora Key.' I also have a stand-alone medieval romance novel 'Highland Warrior: Keeper of Secrets' due next year.