Can you, for those who don't know you already, tell something about yourself and how you became an author?
Rayvn is actually my alter ego, my nom de plume if you will. In real life (LOL!) I’m a full-time literary editor. Over a decade ago, I started a book blog, LITERAL ADDICTION, because of my absolute love of books. I was working full-time in Information Technology and when my company got bought out, and I got laid off, I decided to get certified in editing and give editing a try full-time (I was already doing a bit of it pro bono). Things went really well. Eight years later, I’m working for St. Martin’s Press and have worked with over ninety amazing authors. One of those asked me to write for a boxed set she was sponsoring, and the rest, as they say, is history. I wrote YOUR MOVE, had three horror shorts published in Sirens Call eZine, and have contracts signed for a contemporary sports romance coming out with Lady Boss Press on September 14, 2020 and a full-length paranormal romance thriller that will be released next year with them, as well. I also hope to give my fans more Willow Falls, because everybody wants to know what’s up with Drake and Teagan, the hero and heroine of book #2 (spoiler!)
What is something unique/quirky about you?
Hmmm, I’m always unique and quirky, but I was in several bands back in the day, vocals and bass. A metal band called Insidious Affliction, a blues band called The Black River Band, and an alternative group called Merge.
Tell us something really interesting that's happened to you!
One of the most interesting things that has ever happened to me took place when I still lived in Minnesota. I was at a Twins baseball game with some friends, watching the White Sox (my favorite team) and an usher came down to the third row right next to first base where my season tickets were and handed me a note. It was on Twins letterhead and signed by Marty Cordova, the left fielder at the time. I thought it was a joke and waited over a week to call the number on the note. As it turns out, it actually was from Marty. He had seen me sitting there from the field and asked me out. We dated for about six months.
What are some of your pet peeves?
I have a weird thing with things that shouldn’t smell like they do. Like why in the world would you make toilet bowl cleaner smell like mint? LOL
Where were you born/grew up at?
I was born in raised in central Wisconsin. I’m a Cheesehead through and through, and bleed green and gold. I moved to Florida in 2000 but my heart will always be with the changing leaves and autumn in the Midwest. Wisconsin and its beauty play a huge role in YOUR MOVE and the entire Willow Falls world.
If you knew you'd die tomorrow, how would you spend your last day?
Dang, as a cancer survivor and someone who struggles with autoimmune issues, this one hits close to home. I think I’d want to be somewhere beautiful in nature with a good book surrounded by people I love for my last day.
Who is your hero and why?
I have many. Right now, my hero is Rachel Caine. She’s one of my absolute all-time favorite authors. She is going through a massive health battle at present and is doing it with a grace and strength that I find mind-boggling. She’s open and honest with her fans and I while I admired the heck out of her before, now, she’s my absolute hero. And if you have not read her, I STRONGLY suggest you devour everything she has ever written. There has never been a Rachel Caine book I have not adored.
Thank you so much for hosting me today! I hope everybody loves Mel and Vaughn. And, as always, happy reading!
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