Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello,
I’m JL and I’ve always wanted to be a writer. I live in Maryland with my family and my pretty, but bad and so sweet, cat named Trinity. I live for great love stories especially when they make my heart tremble. I’ll remember the characters for years and when I love a book I will read it over and over.
I write about characters who live in the gray areas of life. These are people who get pushed around and to survive and take care of those they love, they’re willing to do the unthinkable. I currently have published two full novels and a short story.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book, Steel is the third on The Trinity Series. The Trinity are three best friends who rise as the queen pins of New York’s top Cartel. But it’s not about people doing bad things. The series is about how far you would go to protect those you love. It’s about standing up for yourself when life tries to knock you down. The whole series centers family in the non traditional sense.
Steel, is the story of Amelia Solis and Leandro Masseur. Despite being on of the most powerful women in New York, Amelia has been marked for death by a killer set on revenge. Leandro has always been in control until he met her. Now their past threatens to destroy them and he needs to find a way to save her.
The inspiration for the book is tricky to explain. These two characters appeared on page in Boss (my first novel) and would not let go. They’re passionate, obsessive, loyal, and they want each other. Badly. LOL.
Amelia is an ode to the strength of the women I know. The women in my family confront life with the attitude of “what do you have for me today.” They roll with the punches and find strength to get up and fight.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
It’s funny you should ask that. I have a pair of writing earrings, fuzzy boots, a robe, and I drink tea from a pretty teacup while writing. It gets the creativity going.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have so many. But I love the way Sandra Brown writes men. They’re rugged and sexy but there’s so much emotion to them.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on a short novel called The Summer I loved You. It’s the entry book into a new series. It’s really different than the Trinity Series and I am excited to share it with the world once it’s ready.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My website http://www.jllora.com/ has all the information and where my books can be found. There’s also my author Facebook page.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Being a writer is tough but if this is what you love, you should pursue it with all your heart. These things have helped me greatly:
1-Surround yourself with a tribe. Find other writers. Your family and friends can be supportive and love you but they probably won’t get it when you’re complaining about your characters not cooperating. My tribe are the writers around me, especially my critique partners. They keep me honest with my goals, tell me what works and doesn’t in my stories, cheer me on, and push me when I need it.
2-Keep your head down and work at your own pace. Yes, you have to adapt to market but only you know what you have on your plate at work or with your other job.
3-Write from your heart.
4-Take courses and continue learning about writing.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
A good friend of mine always tells me, one book in front of the other. You can only write one at a time.
What are you reading now?
Unruly by Bethany Kris
What’s next for you as a writer?
I have two more books and a novela this year after my next release.
What is your favorite book of all time?
I have way too many that I can think of. Here are a few: Jude Deveraux’s Sweet Liar and Twin of Fire, Nora Roberts’ Carolina Moon, Amanda Quick’s Mistress, Sandra Brown’s Mirror Images.
Author Websites and Profiles
J. L. Lora Website
J. L. Lora Amazon Profile
J. L. Lora’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account