BooksChatter: ℚ♫ Key Change: Assignment: Romance [3]

Today we have the pleasure of meeting up with author Barbara Valentin to talk about Key Change (2 December 2015, Gemma Halliday Publishing, 236 pages), a Romantic Comedy, book three of the Assignment: Romance series.

"A lighthearted and endearing blend of comedy, drama, and romance. Quick-moving and thoroughly delightful." —Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

"Barbara Valentin delivers love, laughter, and a happily ever after—what more could you ask for?" —Gemma Halliday, New York Times bestselling author

Author Q&A | Synopsis | Teaser | The Series | About the Author | Tour Stops

Hello Barbara, welcome and thank you for joining us on BooksChatter!

We love music, so Barbara has shared with us her music playlist for Key Change - enjoy!

What was the inspiration for Key Change?

"I actually got the idea for this book while sitting in choir rehearsal at my church week after week, thinking about how the director couldn’t be more different from a dear friend of mine, but at the same time, realizing how perfect they would be for each another."

How much of yourself is reflected in this book, and how?

"I think I gave Sara some of my worst traits – being impatient, brash and snarky – all of which she uses to hide her scars from the rest of the world. Curiously enough, she also has my exact same taste in music. And wine. Oh, and clothes."

The first thing that draws me to a book is its cover. Can you tell us about your cover for Key Change - why you chose that concept and who the artist is.

"The amazing Estrella Cover Designs does all of my covers. She starts by having me fill out a questionnaire, asking about the book, the characters, and any elements in particular that I’d like her to highlight. She always nails it."

Why should we read Key Change and what sets it apart from the rest?

"A few things set my series apart from most others. The feedback I get most from my readers is that, once they start reading one of my books, they can’t put them down.

They’re “clean” (no erotica), the characters have depth and are relatable and authentic.

The plot lines are unpredictable and my writing style has been described as “intelligent and witty.”

If that’s not enough to compel you to read them, the second most consistent bit of feedback I receive is that they’re fun. And who couldn’t use a little fun in their lives?"

Can you tell us something quirky about Key Change, its story and characters?

"Only that, unlike many other series, readers will spot several characters from my earlier books playing key roles in this release."

Who would you recommend Key Change to and what should readers be aware of (any warnings or disclaimers)?

"I recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet romance between two completely different, but surprisingly compatible people. I highly recommend this book to any woman who thinks, for whatever reason, she doesn’t deserves to be loved by someone amazing."

If you could / wished to turn Key Change and the Assignment: Romance series into a movie, who would be your dream team?

"Ha – That’s a great question! I’ve already cast the movie version. In fact, I had actors in mind when I was still in outline mode, just so I could get their features and characteristics down. For Sara, I would cast the lovely Carey Mulligan; for Andrew, I would cast the smouldering Desmond Harrington."

Nice choices. Desmond Harrington - Yes, please! ... I could not choose just one picture... btw, he is also a very good actor, not just eye-candy ;-)

What do you like to write and read about? Do you stick to a particular genre or do you like to explore different ones?

"I really enjoy romantic comedy, as long as it doesn’t get too formulaic, schmaltzy, or predictable."

What is your writing process?

"Once I have the basic concept in mind, I create a chapter outline that details, at a high level, what has to happen when so the conflict builds at the right pace and the resolution is not rushed.

After that, it’s all about filling in the blanks. That’s not to say that the story doesn’t take some detours here and there. Sometimes, those end up being the best parts!"

What is in store next?

"The next book in the series is Flight Risk, due out early next summer. I won’t say too much about it except that it centers on a certain phobic travel writer at the Gazette."

And as a final quirky thing, to get to know you a little bit better... do you have a pet or something that is special to you that you could share with us?