Hi, there! My name is Melissa West and I am the author of RACING HEARTS, the first in the Hamilton Stables series, featuring horse racing and a second chance at love.
How did you get started writing?
I decided to write a book after I had my first daughter. I remember looking at her and thinking that I wanted to do something big to show her that she could do/be whatever she wanted. So I wrote a book. I ended up signing my first publishing contract seven months later.
What genre(s) do you write in and why?
I actually write across several. I write YA sci-fi, contemporary new adult, and then small town contemporary romance. What I like to say is that everything I write is set in the South, so regardless of the genre, I consider myself a Southern fiction writer…with kissing. Because every book needs a good kissing scene, right? 🙂
Tell us about your current series.
The Hamilton Stables series focuses on three brothers who together manage Hamilton Stables, a farm dedicated to breeding and training Thoroughbred racehorses.
What inspired your latest book?
I liked the idea of writing about a female succeeding in a male role, so my heroine is a jockey who hopes to be the first female to win the Kentucky Derby.
What is your favorite part of writing?
Readers! I’ve met so many amazing people, both at signings and online. The reading/writing community is utterly fantastic. I feel so blessed to be a part of it.
What is your least favorite part of writing?
Deadlines, lol!
What is your next project and when will it be released?
My next book is titled YOUR B&B OR MINE? and it actually releases on November 9th, 2015.
What is your typical day like?
Oh, I have two little girls, so my days are insane! I usually try to write first thing in the morning and then from 9PM-1AM.
Do you have critique partners?
I do, but depending upon my deadline, they aren’t always able to read the full manuscript. I also use beta readers.
What is your favorite dessert/food?
Tiramisu!
How likely are people you meet to end up in your next book?
It’s not likely that a person will end up in my book, but something he/she says or does might. I tend to pay attention to things around me and will zero in on behaviors I feel would make nice character traits.
Was your road to publication fraught with peril or a walk in the park?
I certainly received my share of rejection! My story was a little unusual. I ended up receiving numerous offers of representation from agents, but I turned them down and accepted a publishing contract instead. My father was just diagnosed with cancer, and he had always been my first reader. I wanted to make sure he would see that book become a reality.
Book Description:
In the lush heart of Kentucky, the Hamiltons are horse racing royalty, born to produce champions. To win takes heart and soul—and to love takes the wild spirit of the land itself…
The oldest of three headstrong brothers, Trip Hamilton is considered the best horse trainer in the world. But he learned long ago to keep his focus on the horses and away from the riders. He’s seen the way heartbreak can waylay a career, and he’s determined not to risk it—until a stubborn, sexy rider thunders into his life, breaks his resolve, along with several of his rules, and takes his heart right out of the gate…
Emery Carlisle has a point to prove. She’ll be the first woman to win the prestigious Kentucky Derby, if only Trip will hire her, and let her ride the spirited colt she fell for at first sight. He won’t—unless she agrees to train with the horse at Hamilton Stables, under his guidance. It’s supposed to be strictly business, but as the race approaches, and their undeniable chemistry builds, Trip and Emery may be headed for the greatest win of all—as long as the losses of the past don’t gain on them…
Author Bio:
Melissa West writes heartfelt Southern romance and YA sci-fi romance,
all with lots of kissing. Because who doesn’t like kissing? She lives outside of Atlanta, GA with her husband and two daughters and spends most of her time writing, reading, or fueling her coffee addiction.
Connect with Melissa at www.melissawestauthor.com or on Twitter @MB_West. And for sneak peeks at upcoming works, prizes, and more, join Mel’s Madhouse: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MelsMadhouse.
Website: www.melissawestauthor.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/MelissaWestAuthor
Twitter: @MB_West
Instagram: MelissaWestAuthor
Buy Links:
http://www.melissawestauthor.com/hamilton-stables.html
Giveaway- Racing Hearts Ebook