Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I'm a paranormal romance author born in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania and living in Sacramento, California. I recently signed a publishing contract with Kingston Publishing Company, and I’m very excited to be working with Michelle and CK. We just released my first book Shattered with a sexy new cover and new series logo. Book 2, Avenged is with the publisher and is planned to be released September 13. The books are part of my Circle of the Red Scorpion erotic paranormal romance series.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Shattered. I’ve been an avid reader since age 9. I love romance and all things paranormal, especially vampires. I watched the Dark Shadows soap opera every day with my grandma. Dark Shadow was the first book series I read. Over the years, I’ve read countless gothic, paranormal and contemporary romance books and book series. I had a lot of ideas for stories rolling around in my head and started writing them down. I’m a big fan of book series and wanted to try my hand at writing my own.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My writing habits are not unusual, but I try to be very organized. I like to do a preliminary outline of the books I'm writing. It is particularly important with a book series. I’ve done some traveling and plan to do more. I'm also a big researcher. Since some scenes happen in different time periods or countries, I rely on research as a valuable writing aid. Travel, research, and life experiences are all important resources and I want the plot, the scenes and the details to be believable, accurate and consistent.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
My top three favorite authors are J.R. Ward, Christine Feehan, and Sherrilyn Kenyon. These talented authors weave stories that draw me into their worlds. I love the characters and look forward to them appearing throughout the book series. I always hate to leave their worlds when the books end and look forward to finding out where the series go next. All three have been a big influence on me and motivated me to write my own book series.
What are you working on now?
I'm working on Returned, Book 3 in my series.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I try to cover as many bases as I can. I'm active on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads, and MeWe. I have a Facebook fan page, Facebook group, and my own website and recently started a newsletter. I try to post photos, promos, mini-excerpts and book trailers often. I belong to many Facebook groups and try to post book links and promos weekly. I'm just starting a do author takeovers and I've been a signing author at some events this year and have two more scheduled in the fall. I have three events booked for next year so far. But signing with an awesome publishing company has elevated my book promotion to a new level.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t let fear hold you back from achieving your dream of being a published author. I did that for many years. It’s daunting and scary, but perseverance and commitment is the key. Keep your eye on the goal. Get involved in some of the Facebook Groups. The groups offer a wealth of knowledge and good advice. Being around like-minded people will inspire and motivate you. Lastly, believe in yourself.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
To never give up and get yourself out there and be present. It hasn't always been an easy thing for me. I've always liked being in the background but you can't do that as an author.
What are you reading now?
I just started reading The Thief by one of my faves – J.R. Ward.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I want to continue working on my Circle of the Red Scorpion book series. I have a spin-off series in mind based on one of my series characters. I'm also working on a contemporary romance thriller with I hope to complete this year.
What is your favorite book of all time?
There are a lot of books that I consider as being a part of my favorites in the paranormal romance genre, but two immediately came to mind. I can’t read one without reading the other -Acheron and Styxx by Sherrilyn Kenyon. Both books are gripping, heartbreaking and a rollercoaster of emotions. I’ve read them several times and will read them again.
Author Websites and Profiles
Charlene Johnson Website
Charlene Johnson Amazon Profile
Charlene Johnson’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
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