Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Bear’s Edge is the second book I have written and the second book in the Stranger Creatures series. Each story features a different couple searching for their own version of happily-ever-after, so each book can stand alone.
I never planned on being a writer and viewed the poetry and short stories I wrote as a kid as nothing more than a fun hobby. For years I worked in sales, then in case management for persons with disabilities, and finally as a personal trainer. When I started writing a story at night just for fun, just to get the words out of my head onto paper, I decided it was time to follow a long suppressed dream and share the stories I wrote.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I recently published Bear’s Edge. My inspiration was that people often survive unspeakable tragedies and experience life altering events and I wanted to show characters learning to love and thrive again after experiencing pain and loss. The heroine, Shayla, in this story is a strong, smart business owner who doesn’t need a man in her life to complete her or tell her how to run her business. She can stand on her own which makes her all the more attractive to the hero, Grant. The problem? Shayla is Grant’s boss. I had fun creating all the obstacles standing in Shayla and Grant’s way.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
A lot of my ideas come to me when I’m doing something other than sitting at the keyboard. Sometimes I write scenes in my head while going for a run or taking a shower. Things in everyday life inspire me. I am a total people watcher. I still use composition notebooks and cheap pens to write most of my first drafts. I have never liked being still for long and sitting at the computer doing revisions is my least favorite part of writing.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have loved reading ever since I was a kid. I remember reading Judy Blume and S.E. Hinton in middle school and thinking about the stories long after I had finished the books because the characters were so vivid. In high school, I loved Mercedes Lackey and Tom Deitz because of the interesting worlds they created. Later on, it was Ray Bradbury and George Orwell that captured my interest because of the ideas and questions the stories posed. Elle Kennedy, Rebecca Zanetti, Shannon McKenna, and Nalini Singh are some of my favorite romance authors because of the vivid worlds they create while also showing complex, imperfect characters that deserve a happily ever after.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on finishing the first book in the Blackstone Beach series which will be romantic suspense and also working on book number 3 in the Stranger Creatures series. Wish me luck. I’ve got a bit of writer’s block at the moment.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve had some luck with having promotional companies doing a release day book blitz for me. Facebook is effective at getting the word out about a new release and also for promoting giveaways. Book blogs are a great way to get the word out about a book since book blogs will often agree to post about a book or review it upon request. Also, sites like Awesomegang.com and Pretty-hot.com are helpful at getting a book in front of readers who are interested in learning about new books.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Marketing is crucial. On author-friendly websites and at writer’s groups you can often find info. on marketing opportunities and companies that have worked well for other authors. Patience is important too. Things don’t always start out fast with thousands of sales and writing a story, whether it’s your first or not, doesn’t always happen on a quick and convenient timetable. Just don’t give up. One day it will be worth all the effort.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Life is short. Enjoy it.
What are you reading now?
Murder in the Latin Quarter by Cara Black and Midnight Action by Elle Kennedy.
What’s next for you as a writer?
My goal is to finish the two books I’m working on by June when my two girls get out of school for the year.
What is your favorite book of all time?
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
Author Websites and Profiles
Christina Lynn Lambert Website
Christina Lynn Lambert Amazon Profile
Christina Lynn Lambert’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account