Welcome, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Alyssa Brooks, author of Arrested, which is published by Liquid Silver Books for taking the time to answer these questions for us at Coffee Time Romance.

Where did you come up for the idea and title for Arrested?

I had decided to write my first romantic erotica, and was trying to think of a good idea for a sexy story. It was while watching my two favorite shows, Cops and America’s Most Wanted, that I came up with Arrested.  Actually, the title was the first thing I thought of. The story brewed from there.  Even as a teen, I’ve always had the utmost esteem for those in uniform.  Whether it be a cop or firefighter, marine or navy seal, they put themselves on the line for us. I always tell my kids to remember to respect those in uniform. So many forget that they protect, and serve us. They devote their lives to the public. They help us when we are in need, even save our lives. What’s sexier than that? It wasn’t until I wrote the query for Arrested that it occurred to me to do the series. I’ve had great feedback, and decided to keep doing them. Fighting Fire as just released, and the next in line is going to be about an astronaut.

How long did it take to write Arrested?

I started in August and finished in January. It actually took me a little longer then it should have because I was in the middle of a move. When we finally got settled, I was pregnant, and the first month was very difficult for me. On average, a book the size of Arrested would take me two month or less.

Did you have the characters already plotted out or did they come to you as you write the book?

I had a very basic story idea, and went from there. It all pretty much developed as it happened, which is generally how I write. I’m too impatient to waste time plotting. The most I do in that area is scene by scene. I’ll cuddle in bed late at night or in the early morning and imagine what will happen next.

Did you have any difficulties writing this story?

Not with the story itself. As I mentioned, life did get in the way quite a bit. The last two chapters took me longer to write then the whole book.  But as for the story, it was really easy for me. I really felt it. The characters were strong in me, and the ideas just flowed. It was more a matter of having the time to put the story down.

Was the finished result of Arrested what you imagined it would be?

Well, when I started I had no idea how it would end. I went scene by scene, developing the story as I wrote it. Some of the twists and turns were little surprises for me. All in all though, the story is just what I thought it would be.

Do your children know not to interrupt you when you are working?

I wish! Even as I write this, I am holding a baby. My teenage son just came down and begged me to type his report. My other son keeps turning his radio as loud as it will go. My biggest baby, my husband, is on the couch talking to me even though I’m only half listening. They really have no concept. But hey, they’re kids…at least three of them.

How much time do you get to spend with your family when you do not have a deadline?

I try not to take on too many deadlines, not unless I know I will have more than enough time. Maybe when the kids are grown, but for now I do what I can when I can. Daily life is always interrupting.  I do my best to work as much as I can, but I always remember two very important things.  They will not be kids forever. Soon the boys will be adults themselves, and my precious baby girl will be a teenager worried over music and boys. And an unattended marriage is usually a nonexistent one. A relationship needs constant nurturing. Family is very important to me, though writing is too. I try to keep a healthy balance of the two.

Do you have certain hours that you write or are they when you can manage to snatch them?

I used to keep hours, working from 9:30 to 2 five days a week, but since the baby was born, I work whenever she decides to give me a break. She’s a little angel though, not fussy or colicy at all. I still get a lot done, though not near as much as I used to.

Have you ever had Writers’ Block?

I’m a stubborn woman, and I simply refuse to even believe in Writer’s Block. I believe there are good days and bad, and you just have to work through it. It’s when you start using excuses to stop working that you find yourself in a rut.  Whether I’m on a roll or not, I write. It can always be buffed up later, but at least I’m getting it out.

Do you have any upcoming projects?

I just finished a shortie. It’s about a husband and wife who have recently had a baby. It’s taken a toll on their relationship. The husband decides to win his wife back, and sets about romancing her. I’m currently working on a title and a publisher.  Right now, I am writing a historical western called The Price Of A Pearl.  Pearl and Cain are young lovers, torn apart by her father’s ill deeds.  Pearl is forced into an unhappy marriage. Cain has been left to the life of an outlaw. Years later, the two are reunited in a bank holdup. Cain takes Pearl hostage, and holds her for ransom. Little does he know, Pearl is not going back.  I look for The Price Of A Pearl to be finished this winter.

What encouraging words would you give to aspiring authors, if you could?

They should walk into any library or bookstore and take a good look at all the books. All those people made it. This business is not impossible, though it may seem like it at times. They should stick with it and stay positive. Hard work will pay off. If you really want it, you will get it.  Also, joining a critique group is very smart. It helps you to develop the backbone you need to be in this business.

I would like to thank Alyssa Brooks, on behalf of Coffee Time Romance for chatting with us and we wish you luck on all your upcoming projects.

Sheryl
Interviewer
Coffee Time Romance