The Literary Vixen presents…
Joining us today is Lizzy Gayle! Her newest release, The Bleeding Heart (The Djinn Book 2) released January 25th 2022.
What inspired you to start writing?
Thank you so much for having me today! I’ve known since I was a child that writing would always be part of my life, but until about ten years ago, it was always on the backburner. My entire life, I’ve gravitated toward creative work, but that was when I decided to dedicate my time and learn the business side of things. I’ve never looked back!
What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?
Haha. I know I’m not the only quirky writer out there, but it’s probably my “pantsing” style. Yeah, that’s common, but when I write it’s almost like going into a trance and writing down the movie I’m watching in my head. The difference is, I’m also in my character’s head and that’s how I see things. So try as I might to plot, I’m always thwarted by my characters when they don’t do what I expect them to.
How do you deal with emotional impact of a book (on yourself) as you are writing the story?
I feel like if I have a strong reaction as I write (or reread) that means I’m doing a decent job. My goal is to make the reader feel, whether it’s joy, worry, sadness, etc. So if I feel it, I’m on the right track. That said, I find it cathartic, but that’s also part of why I read in general. It allows me an outlet for my emotions.
How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?
Oh my goodness. I’ve lost count. I used to write YA under a different name, so if you mean published? Probably around 10. But written? Holy moly, I don’t know. I’m loving writing adult romance. It’s very freeing, and the spice is nice. It’s so hard to pick a favorite, it’s like choosing a favorite child. It could be just because it’s what I’m currently into, but I love book 2 of The Fantasy Resorts series. The working title is A Matter of Time. It’s about a time traveling resort that goes back to the Old West and…things happen. LOL
How much ‘world building’ takes place before you start writing?
Like I said, I TRY to plan, but it doesn’t always take. I see a number of things before I start as I figure out the story and characters, but a lot of it I discover as I write. I don’t know if it’s my subconscious or what, but somehow things pop up that seem insignificant that always tie in later.
Do you hear from your readers much? What do they say?
My favorite thing about writing is hearing from readers. It literally makes my day if someone enjoyed my work. I try to encourage that and always try to respond. One example that stands out is when a reader sent me a fan cover they made for a book of mine. That was an amazing feeling. Not only does it mean they invested their time, but also their thoughts and feelings on my characters.
What book is currently on your bedside table?
A stack of them! LOL Also the ones on my Kindle on my phone that charges there. Ha! The last physical one I added was Payback’s a Witch by Lana Harper.
Describe yourself in three words.
Loving, unstoppable, weird. I embrace the weirdness btw, so I consider that a good thing.
What advice would you give to other authors?
Two things. 1. PERSEVERANCE. Don’t give up. If writing is something you NEED (and you’ll know if you know) then don’t let rejection stop you. If you put in the work, the time, and the heart, you CAN accomplish your goals. 2. As my hero, Libba Bray, once told me, write what scares you. It’s been something of a mantra to me, and I’ve really grown as a writer since that moment.
What is the one thing you want people to know about you and your books?
That they exist! LOL There are so many wonderful books out there, and I find that an AMAZING thing, but if you love fun yet dark, fast-paced, paranormal or sci-fi romance, give them a try. And by all means, please let me know what you think! It matters to me. I try to put in things to change up the usual. For example, this trilogy is about Djinn (genies) which aren’t your typical go-to for paranormal romance, but if you like vampires or demons, you’ll enjoy them as well.
Thank you Lizzy Gayle for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her newest release, The Bleeding Heart today!
~Synopsis~
Taj knows his revolving door of lovers won’t erase the past, but it helps pass the time. That is until his sister Leela’s boyfriend shows up in a panic. With Leela missing and a Djinn killer on the loose, Taj dives into trying to find both his vanished sister…and the murderer.
His quest introduces him to another Djinni named Brolach, new to his human form. Attraction blooms and Taj wonders if it might be worth the risk to try dating his own kind. His last relationship with a Djinni didn’t end well, but it has been almost two hundred years since he lost Cal.
When danger traps him and his loved ones, and everyone looks to him for guidance, Taj finds he’s thrust into a position he doesn’t want. Can he overcome the demons of his past to save the future and find his happily ever after?
Lizzy Gayle loves paranormal so much, she lives it. She is both an author and a psychic. Between mothering her three kids, attempting to understand her rocket scientist husband, and consistently attempting to declutter her home (that she is convinced is a secret portal to a clutter-creating dimension), she does her best to use her creative gifts and share them with you.
The Literary Vixen 