Author Name: Tina Hogan Grant

Book Title: All of Us

Book Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release Date: January 31, 2022

Publisher: Tina Hogan Grant Books

Welcome back, Tina! What inspired the idea for All of Us?

When I began writing this book I believed it was going to be the final book in the series. The series has followed the journey of six best friends through their ups and downs and of course their romances. The power of friendship is the focus in each book, Slater, Book 1, Eve book 2, Claire book 3, and Jill, book 4. I wanted what I  thought would be the last book, to be where they all came together and prove once again the bond they have with each other no matter what challenges they face. (hence the title.) 

Now I do not plot any of my books. I have no idea what is going to happen or how they are going to end. I let my characters tell me their stories. When I was halfway through writing this book I knew there would be more books to follow. I can comfortably say, at least three more, so stay tuned. 

What about the writing/editing/publishing process has been the most surprising to you so far (or how has it changed for you over the course of your career)?

My debut novel, Reckless Beginnings was published in 2018 through a publisher, and in June of 2021, I gained the rights back. I had to make a major decision whether I should sign another 2-year contract with my publisher, seek another publisher or self-publish. For me, it was a no-brainer. I chose to self-publish the second edition. I had written 4 more books since my debut and I had self-published them all and it was a much better experience than going with a publisher. I love being in control of every part of my books from, cover design, release dates, sales promotions, and advertising. Royalties are much better and the only deadlines I have to meet are my own.  

What advice would you give to writers just starting out?

The best advice I was given and I still practice it, is to write and read every day. It doesn’t matter what you write, just write. Write what you did today, look at a picture in a magazine or on a wall, and try to describe it in detail. Look up writing prompts online which are great exercises to improve our writing.  Get into the habit of writing. 

When you read a book, read it like a writer/author. Pay attention to the opening of the book, did it grab you? Ask yourself how. Which part pulled you into the book. If you find your mind wandering why reading, stop and reread the paragraph where the author lost you. What was the story missing at that point? Pay attention to detail and learn from the best. What pulls you into a story and what lacks when you lose interest. 

Can you tell us about what you’re working on now?

I am currently working on book 6 of The Sabela Series. I do not have a title yet. That usually comes to me once the first draft has been written and I finally know what the story is about. I hope to have it published by June/July 2022. 

Where can readers find you (website, blog, social media, etc.)? Feel free to include any upcoming, live events, too!

If your readers click on this link it will take them to all the places they can follow me;

https://linktr.ee/tinahogangrant

My website is https://www.tinahogangrant.com

Thank you, Tina! All of Us is available for pre-order.

All of Us