Interview with Erica Ridley, Author of The Duke Heist

by grant

in Author Interviews, News, Romance

09 Feb 2021

What can you tell us about your new release, The Duke Heist?

The Duke Heist launches the new Wild Wynchesters series, about the adventures and hijinks of a close-knit, caper-committing family. Years ago, Chloe Wynchester and five other uniquely talented orphans were adopted by a wealthy baron with a secret mission: The motley Wynchester family fights for justice from the margins of high society. This time, it’s personal. A treasured heirloom has been stolen and the family will stop at nothing to retrieve it. Chloe certainly won’t let a meddlesome detail like the sexy, powerful Duke of Faircliffe get in her way…

What books are currently on your nightstand?

Alyssa Cole’s To Catch a Queen, Maria Rutkoski’s The Midnight Lie, and Akwaeke Emezi’s Pet. Books I can’t wait for include Rose Lerner’s The Wife in the Attic and Courtney Milan’s The Devil Comes Courting.

What advice would you give your teenage self?

Don’t give up! I wanted to be a writer ever since I was small, but I did give up the dream for about a decade. When I finally went after what I wanted, I found happiness. Whatever it is that you love—do it!

If you had an extra hour each day, how would you spend it?

Reading! I have more books on my TBR pile than I’ll ever be able to read, and I still can’t stop myself from one-clicking. An extra hour a day to indulge would be lovely. Bonus points if the extra hour comes with dark chocolate or other comfort food to enjoy along with the book…

What makes your world go round? Why does it bring you joy?

In any other year, I would say traveling! The world is big and I want to see it all. I especially love taking my nephews and other family members with me on trips. I’m lucky to live in the rainforests of Costa Rica, where adventure is always around the corner, no matter what is happening in the outside world. I love to eat breakfast outside with my husband and listen to the howler monkeys and watch the toucans and parrots pass by.

What scene in The Duke Heist was your favorite to write?

Ooh, this one is tough! There were so many fun scenes–particularly anything with the Wynchester family or one of their animals. But one of the most fun moments is when Chloe executes a simple art heist… and ends up accidentally kidnapping her mortal enemy, the Duke of Faircliffe. It’s hard to say who is the most surprised!