Interview with author Lisa Becker

1 – Have you always wanted to be a writer?

I’ve always had a host of imaginary friends who have conversations in my head. To some, hearing voices might be cause for concern. But when you write those conversations down and sell them, you’re an author. 

2 – When you start a series of books – do you know in advance who the couples who will appear in the following books will be? Do you know what the plot will be?

I typically know which of the secondary characters will be the focus of the next book in a series. I don’t always know right away what their story will be, but have enough of an idea to tee things up to generate reader interest.

3 – Did you write a book and decide not to publish it?

I confess to having several unfinished manuscripts. Sometimes I need to take a step back and reassess character or relationship development. Other times, I get a new idea and want to take advantage of the inspiration while I can. Bottom line: I always want to deliver a fun and entertaining love story perfect for anyone who’s ever been in love, been dumped, had a bad date, or is still searching for the one.

4 – Is there a topic you will never write about? If so, what is it?

I only write love stories where people find their happily ever after (HEA). The world is already filled with enough drama and negativity. I hope to bring levity, humor and hopefulness. If I can make someone smile, laugh or believe that love is possible, than I’ve done my job.

5 – By what do you choose a cover for a book?

I try to pick an image that conveys the theme and tone of a book, whether it’s the connection between the main characters or the setting where their love story takes place. For example, my contemporary romance Links is about a former ugly duckling who has a chance encounter with her unrequited high school crush, now a professional golfer. The cover image shows a couple holding hands on a golf course. Starfish is a forbidden office romance between a rock star and the PR professional working with the band. The cover illustrates their dynamic and the secretive nature of their relationship.

6 – Where did you get the inspiration for the stories?

Inspiration can come from strange places. My novel Clutch is about a handbag designer who compares her romantic relationships to different styles of purses (ie. the “Hobo” or starving artist; the “Diaper Bag” or single dad; the “Briefcase” or intense businessman, etc.) while searching for the “Clutch” or the one she wants to hold onto. It was inspired by an episode of NCIS where a character was described as a “handbag husband” or something useless you hang on your arm. It started me thinking about how men are like handbags and the story developed from there.

7 – Who is your favorite couple you wrote about?

That’s like asking me to choose my favorite child! I love them all so much. However, I’m particularly fond of the relationship in Links, which is coming to audio this summer, because I can identify with nerdy Charlotte who harbored a high school crush on the athletic heartthrob Garrett. I think readers will connect with her and root for her to find happiness.

 8 – How long does it take you to write one book?

Each book is different, but the process ranges from 6-14 months.

 9 – What is your favorite genre to read?

I’m a big fan of contemporary romance. After all, what is more universal, more dramatic, more compelling, more necessary than love? And if we get to talk about – and look at book covers with – shirtless men, who am I to complain?

 10 – Who are your favorite writers?

There are so many romance writers I admire for creating immersive worlds, compelling characters, and swoon worthy moments. Some of my favorites include Christina Lauren, Helena Hunting, Jasmine Guillory, Amy Daws, Adrianna Hererra, and Meghan Quinn. Any of these ladies could write a grocery list and I would one-click it. 

 11 – If you could turn one of your books into a movie – which book would you choose?

I would love to see my romantic comedy Clutch hit the big or small screen. The concept started out as a screenplay that had been optioned by a studio, but never progressed past the initial stage of development.  It’s a unique concept filled with tons of a humor and a friends-to-lovers romance that readers (or viewers) will cheer for.