Sparks follows two former friends with unfinished business who wind up working together and navigating the complicated path from friendship to heartbreak to second chances. What inspired the idea for Olivia and Trevor’s story?

Sparks grew from a short story to a full-length novel because I ended up writing a story for my close friends to enjoy. Key elements of the book—like the long separation between Olivia and Trevor despite their chemistry—were inspired by a relationship I saw blossoming and flourishing over years. I think there’s something beautiful about the right person at the wrong time growing to becoming a person who’s the best fit for you no matter what time of life you find yourself in.

Olivia’s determination to solve every problem herself becomes one of her greatest challenges, while Trevor balances confidence with vulnerability in a way that makes him especially appealing. Which of the two characters proved more difficult to write?

Trevor, without a doubt. Trying to write a character who is a strong romantic lead while also seeming like a real person with charms and faults is a balancing act that can easily topple. Once I hit my stride with him, though. I LOVED writing Trevor’s chapters.

The novel presents love as something that can coexist with independence and ambition. Why was that idea important to you?

Independence and ambition doesn’t need to be crushed when entering into a relationship. Compromises might need to be made, sure, but to me, a great partner is one who sees your talents, your weaknesses, and says, “Hey, I want our lives to be about helping each other reach our individual goals together.”A relationship is a team sport.” Something that Olivia finds out in the book!

What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?

The next book is a workplace romance that is not a workplace romance. I don’t want to give too much away, but our main characters find themselves in a bind as they are immediately attracted to each other. Unfortunately, they also work together, and when you’ve got a strong sense of ethics, you don’t date your co-workers! Especially when there’s a power imbalance. There’s going to be a lot of yearning. On both sides. The book will be available next year!

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