Romance, Coffee, and Creativity – The World of Rachel Ann Smith
Photo: “USA Today Bestselling Author Rachel Ann Smith brings heart-melting romance and joy to readers worldwide with her unforgettable stories.”
From Pages to Hearts – Writing Romance With Meaning
USA Today Bestselling Author Rachel Ann Smith discusses her writing journey, balancing historical and contemporary romance, inspirations, steamy scenes, her process, and the joy of connecting with her readers.
R achel Ann Smith, USA Today Bestselling Author, is a shining star in the literary world of romance. Renowned for her vibrant characters and compelling storylines, Rachel has captured the hearts of readers worldwide with her delightful tales of love and laughter. From swoon-worthy historical romances to contemporary romantic escapades, her stories are irresistible invitations to lose yourself in worlds filled with banter, passion and happily-ever-afters. As the creator of the enchanting “Agents of the Home Office” series and other captivating works, Rachel Ann Smith has cemented herself as an author to watch and cherish. Her dedication to writing, her connection with readers, and her passion for romance make this interview a must-read for any book lover!
Rachel Ann Smith creates escapist worlds filled with witty characters, heartfelt romance, and laughter – a true gem in romance writing.
What inspired you to start writing romance novels?
I’m an avid reader and before the popularity of eBooks there were long periods between book releases by the larger trade publishers. It was during one of those waiting periods that a very kind and wonderful author suggested I attempt to write a story of my own while I awaited her next release. I’m grateful for her, as I’d never before dared to attempt to write a story but always had characters and stories floating in my mind. To my surprise, I enjoyed the process and challenge of transcribing scenes from my imagination on to the written page.
How do you balance writing in multiple romance sub-genres like contemporary and historical?
Unfortunately, the answer is extremely difficult. Since my characters all live in either my regency or contemporary fictional worlds, I must choose which setting I invest my time in. In recent years, my regency world has expanded, and I’ve found that I’ve not had time to pen more contemporary stories, although they are still lingering merely waiting to be told.
“My goal is to portray steamy scenes that show the all-too-intangible, delicate bond love creates.” – Rachel Ann Smith
What do you hope readers take away from your books?
Regardless, if it’s a contemporary or a historical, my hope is that readers are able to escape the stresses of the real world whether it be for an hour or four and to simply indulge in some light-hearted banter and romance that tugs at your heart.
Reading for me is an escape and self-care. I believe we all need a good book that will make our hearts flutter and the occasional chuckle, since they say laughter extends life expectancy.
What’s your process for writing steamy scenes while keeping them meaningful to the story?
I don’t have a process. However, I believe intimacy is an important aspect of every couple’s relationship. It fosters trust, allowing vulnerabilities to be shown and not judged. My goal is to portray steamy scenes that show the all too delicate and intangible bond that is formed.
“Laughter extends life expectancy – and who doesn’t need a flutter of romance too?” – Rachel Ann Smith
Who are some of your favourite authors or books that have influenced your work?
I can’t say with any certainty that what I love to read has much of an influence on my stories, since I’m what other authors refer to as a pantser who writes in the dark. That is, I basically stare at a blank page until a character or characters reveals themselves.
However, a few authors that I love to read and re-read are Lynsay Sands’ and Lisa Kleypas’ historicals, and Punk 57 by Penelope Douglas is my all-time favourite New Adult standalone.
How do you overcome writer’s block when working on a new story?
As I mentioned I’m a pantser, so my stories are character driven. I’m totally at the mercy of my imagination so I’ll often make myself a good strong cup of coffee if in the morning, tea if in the afternoon. If that doesn’t work, I go for a long walk and hope that when I return to my laptop, my characters are ready to join me again.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors who want to write romance novels?
Being an author is a challenge, much like every other career, it has its highs and lows. Keep writing until you reach The End. Once you achieve that there are various ways to have your story shared with readers, depending on your goal. Just know there are readers who will enjoy your words, but no one knows how many.
What has been your most memorable moment as a bestselling author?
Meeting a fan of my stories, on the side-lines of my son’s soccer game. Her smile as she shared with me her favorite titles and scenes, had my heart bursting with happiness. Writing can often be isolating for me. I enter my world, exiting only to parent or eat and then I return to the events on the page. It’s a thrill to hear that others enjoy escaping into my stories as much as I do.
