Confessions
Confessions
I have a confession to make…I’m not very romantic. Shocking isn’t it? My debut novel, Three Hundred and Sixty Degrees was just released by Red Rose Publishing and will be released in printed form this summer under the category of Romance.
Me… Romance? I’m the person who runs out on February 13th at midnight looking for a 24 hour Wal-Mart in order to find the perfect, seemingly well thought- out, Valentine’s Day gift for my husband. And that’s if I’m thinking ahead. If not, I sneak it into the house on Valentine’s Day. In busier times, I have even forgotten my husband’s birthday—it’s the same day as mine.
Now, whether my novel, meets the true definition of romance or whether it’s just a love story– I’m way too new to this business to answer that question. I’ll leave that to the professionals. But I have noticed that everything I write or plan to write (I have other books in the works), has a definite relationship that takes center stage in the story and has a happily ever after.
Hmmm….
So, alright, another confession. Maybe I’m not romantic in the everyday sense of the word, but I do believe there is something sacred about the bond between a man and a woman. And, something so inherently beautiful about a man in love. He’ll do anything to please the object of his affection. Heroic in his efforts and sacrificial in his dedication. It truly is a wonderful thing to witness. Love is a part of who we are. Even I, who, wouldn’t put rose petals on the bed for fear they would stain the sheets, would curl up in that same bed with a book; my pulse quickening when the hero and heroine meet for the first time, rapidly turning the pages to see what would happen between them and letting the answering machine pick up the phone. Completely engulfed by the magic that is love.
Will every story I write be considered a true romance novel? I’m not sure. But I believe love is one of the most profound experiences we can have as human beings. It is one of our deepest, most basic desires. So I am sure you will find in each story I write, a man who loves a woman, sometimes even when she doesn’t love herself- and who is driven, destined, to have her. And, I’m sure, on some level that makes me romantic. Thank you very much. I appreciate the compliment.
Tonya Lampley
Life…one chapter at a time
What happens when things seem too good to be true?
Three Hundred and Sixty Degrees– available at Red Rose Publishing.
- “…a beautifully crafted jewel of the Mainstream/Contemporary genre.”~ Raakhee Suryaprakash, Between the Lines
- “This is an awesome story!” ~ Detra Fitch, Huntress’ Book Reviews
He was a good sport about me forgetting his b-day. He is awesome. He truly makes life more fun!
I am glad people are responding well to the title of the book. The printed version of the book will be released this summer, but the title will be different. Not sure what it will be as of yet.
Thanks for your comments and feedback!
I can’t tell you how glad I am that there’s someone else out there who has (gasp) forgotten her husband’s birthday. I’m generally pretty awful about that sort of thing, but I’m getting better. Actually, after forgetting his b-day one year, I haven’t forgotten it since. 😉
~Lindy
I like the sound of 360 degrees very much. Truly profound.
Great meeting you as well. Thanks for your comment! It’s good to know I’m not alone.
Nice meeting you Tonya!! After 25 + years, there’s still a beautiful romance for us but the cards stop but that’s ok! I really believe that anytime can be that valentine’s day and you can show it in so many ways. Cuz I’m horrible in getting cards now, LOL. Great to met you!
I think romantic is not anything that can be defined with a great deal of certainty. I think it is individual. Great post and I love the idea of the 360 degree turn around.
Thanks for your comments everyone. I really appreciate it!
The title, Three Hundred and Sixty Degrees, came from the idea that the main character comes full circle in the story. Through tragedy and triumph she finds herself and the life she was meant to live all along.
This was fun! I will continue to blog at https://tonyalampley.spaces.live.com. Feel free to stop by and say hello.
I agree that I think you are a romantic at heart too. It’s just that it’s different for everyone and no two couples are the same (like snowflakes lol). What a clever title!
Tonya,
What a great post! I think you are definitely a romantic at heart. You may not have rose petals draped everwhere, but I am sure your nightstand has a few awesome romance novels setting on it that you have to force yourself to put down.
I am looking forward to reading Three Hundred and Sixty Degrees!
All the Best,
Pam S
Great post! I love the cover of Three Hundred and Sixty Degrees