Q&A with J.J. Sorel
Today we have a Q&A with JJ Sorel, author of the Thornhill Trilogy.
From the author: After completing a certificate in Writing Romance with the Australian College of Journalism I embarked on writing three books. All of which are still sitting on my computer.
Then Aidan Thornhill entered my imagination and came alive on paper. From that moment, like all emotional love stories, nothing else mattered. I fell in love. And was compelled to write, almost in a frenzy, every day without fail.
I am presently working on my second instalment of the Thornhill Trilogy, Enlighten, which I plan to publish by February 2018.
Q & A
I am so glad you could join us here at Romance Junkies. To start, will you please tell us a little bit about your current projects?
I am just finishing “Enlighten” which is the second book from the Thornhill Trilogy. I plan to have it out there by Feb 2018.
When was the moment that you knew you had to be a writer?
It is hard to say. I always felt the urge from a very young age, but I got distracted by becoming a professional dancer. Mind you, that involved writing lots of grant applications, which, if anything, put me off writing. I started my first book back in 2007. Other than my latest book Entrance, I have only ever published one under a different name.
Who gave you the one piece of writing advice that sticks with you to this day?
I’ve picked up lots of advice along the way. But one that prevails, at least in my memory, was from George Orwell: Never use a long word if a short one will do. And avoid writing purple prose. The latter was difficult for me as I had an unnatural tendency to use an excess of adjectives.
Describe the “perfect” hero. What about the “perfect” hero for you?
In many ways, Aidan Thornhill is the perfect hero for me. I know that is subjective, considering I invented him. Although he had a difficult start in life, Aidan went out and developed not only mentally and physically, but also culturally through art. He is loyal to a fault. And will sacrifice everything for the woman he loves. For him, Clarissa represents everything that is perfect in a woman, not just her physical beauty, but her sensitivity, creativity and intellectual prowess, which he is in awe of. I suppose it also helps that he seriously hot, and as steamy as they come.
What are some of your favorite pastimes? Do you have any hobbies or collections?
I read a lot. I’m still dancing a little to stay fit and I love swimming at the beach.
What has been your biggest adventure to date?
Self-publishing
If your fairy godmother waved her wand and whisked you away to the location of your choice, which place would you choose, and why?
South of Spain. I am a flamenco dancer and I love the music, the spirit and the vibe of the place.
When it comes to food, are you the adventurous type who will try anything once, or do you prefer to stick to tried and true foods and recipes?
Being from an Italian background, I grew up with colorful dishes and amazing food. Now days, I keep it plain and simple. Maybe not as exciting for the palette, but it’s healthier that way.
What is the one modern convenience that you cannot do without?
Computer
What is your idea of the ideal romantic evening?
Dinner at the beach
How do you describe yourself? How would your family and friends describe you?
Impulsive, mentally overactive, and strange at times.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Chips
What is your favorite season? What do you love about it?
Summer. I love swimming in the sea.
What is the one modern convenience that you cannot do without?
Computer
What project are you working on next?
After Thornhill, I have got two ideas floating around in my head for the next book. Both contemporary sexy romances, of course.
Lightning Round
- Tea or coffee: both
- Vanilla or chocolate: chocolate
- Early bird or night owl: early bird
- Boxers or briefs (readers want to know!): briefs. But they all wear boxers, don’t they? I suppose it’s healthier that way. But a good body in a pair of briefs. Phew. (Wipe brow)
- Favorite holiday: Europe
- Favorite season: Summer
- Cat or dog: Dog
- Favorite color: green
When Clarissa starts working for super-hot, billionaire Aidan Thornhill, her life changes forever. Her beauty robs the mysterious tycoon of his senses, while Thornhill, with his movie-star looks, love of art, and unwavering support for the down-trodden wins Clarissa’s heart and innocence. Carrying a dark past, Aidan breaks every rule in his book to have her, despite enemies out for revenge, threatening to drive a wedge between the lovers.
Entrance (Thornhill Trilogy Book 1)
About JJ.
Born in Melbourne, Australia, I come from a professional dance background. I began writing my first book in 2009, a time-travel romance set in the Regency period.
50 Shades of Grey, was the first contemporary romance book I’d ever read. Up to that point, I’d spent my entire reading life buried in 19th century books, like Jane Austen, the Brontes, George Eliot just to name a few. Georgette Heyer and Daphne du Maurier were as modern as I got.
But then, one day, I picked up 50 Shades of Grey and couldn’t put it down. Impressed by their heart-felt, down to earth portrayal of love and sex, I quickly developed a voracious appetite for contemporary romance books. I was so inspired by the genre, that I decided to explore that world as a writer.
After completing a certificate in Writing Romance with the Australian College of Journalism I embarked on writing three books. All of which are still sitting on my computer.
Then Aidan Thornhill entered my imagination and came alive on paper. From that moment, like all emotional love stories, nothing else mattered. I fell in love. And was compelled to write, almost in a frenzy, every day without fail.
I am presently working on my second instalment of the Thornhill Trilogy, Enlighten, which I plan to publish by February 2018.
