On the ‘Net With Author Altonya Washington
By APOOO • May 30th, 2011 • Category: Author of the Week •
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In 140 words or less, tell us a little about yourself.
I’ve been a romantic fiction writer for about 8 years. My first title was released with the BET Books Arabesque imprint “Remember Love”. Lately I’ve ventured into the realm of self publishing starting with the release of the 4th title in my Ramsey series- “A Lover’s Regret”. I reside in NC and I’m currently in Graduate School for my Masters in Library Science. I work as a Academic Library Serials Assistant.
In 140 words or less, tell us why your book would make a great addition to our personal library.
A Lover’s Shame is the 11th book in the Ramsey Series but it’s the first book in the Ramsey/Tesano series which marks the second portion of this saga. What I love about this title is that while it’s the 11th title in the series, the characters and storyline are so powerful the book can be read as a stand-alone. Also, this marks the first time I’ve written a heroine who has concerns about her weight. It’s been very refreshing crafting the relationship between Sabella and Isak-who adores her just as she is and makes no secret in telling her that.
Why did you decide to write A Lover’s Shame–how did you come up with the theme/subject matter?
Well since it’s part of the Ramsey series, it was the natural progression of things as far as the plot goes. But as far as the hero & heroine- there was subject matter that dealt with rage- on the part of the hero over the loss of the woman he loved. I found it intriguing to write about how that actually changed him from mild-mannered to quick tempered and anger-filled. On the part of the heroine, she discovers a horrifying secret that makes her ashamed of who she is. For a woman who spent the better part of her life battling issues regarding her weight, this was a blow that hit her very hard.
What message do you want readers to take from A Lover’s Shame?
That there are many twists and turns in relationships- and that the negative aspects don’t always involve the couple, but those on the fringes (family, work, etc). Many times the love still remains between the couple, but much pain and sacrifice may be required before they are back on track.
What do you think makes A Lover’s Shame different from other books on the same topic in the marketplace?
Well for one thing, I didn’t really follow any format for writing a series when I started this. I had never actually read a connecting storyline before beginning my own, so I sort of crafted the Ramseys in my own style and many readers have thanked me for that. There really isn’t a formula, I pretty much craft these stories the way the characters lead me-and they have led me into some outrageous places!
So many independent bookstores have gone out-of-business and now we hear that Borders is experiencing financial difficulties. What impact do you believe this will have on your books?
I believe that readers are very tenacious and I LOVE that about them. If they want your book they will find it whatever the issue. Besides that; although I am a print book person, many of my readers are deep into the e-book realm and so that is growing into a very strong market.
Name three things that an author must do in order to stay competitive.
1. Keep producing. 2. Be open to writing across genres (ex. Contemporary romance, erotica, historical, suspense, etc.) and 3. Continuously hone your craft.
Share with us your next project.
There are several projects in the works for me right now. About to release is my next e-book title: “Dancing With Destiny”. I’m completing the proofing for my August Kimani release Private Melody. I’m typing up the final draft for my Jan. ’12 Kimani release “Pleasure After Hours” and I’m working on my next T. Onyx erotica “Pleasure’s Powerhouse”. After that I’ll begin my next Ramsey title: “A Lover’s Hate”.
If readers would like to learn more about you and your books, how can they reach you?
Visit my website:www.lovealtonya.com I am also on Goodreads, Shelfari, Facebook and Twitter (ramseysgirl) they can also join my Yahoo webgroup: LoveAlTonya.
Thank You Yasmin and everyone who reads and supports African American literature.
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APOOO is a book club and an online author and reader community dedicated to advancing African American literature. Our mission is to expose readers of all ages to a good book in any genre; to support African American authors, books, literary events and bookclubs; to provide marketing resources, tools and tips to authors; and, to promote literacy within the African American community.
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Wonderful interview – you ask some great questions. I agree with Yasmin’s stance on the future of bookstores – fans will always find a way to read the books of their favourite authors!