Interview with Gemma James, author of Swallow Me Whole

by grant

in Author Interviews, News, Romance

29 May 2018

What can you tell us about your new release, Swallow Me Whole?

Swallow Me Whole is different from the type of book I usually write, which is mostly dark romance. It’s a friends-to-lovers romance—and a standalone—about two friends who discover their feelings for each other under the guise of sexual experimentation. Sadie is a virgin who’s insecure and unconfident in relationships, and Ashton is her best friend’s manwhore brother. There’s a bit of family drama thrown in, and something from Ashton’s playboy past comes back to bite him in the butt.

What or who inspired you to become an author?

I discovered my love of reading when I was thirteen. Shortly after, it occurred to me that I could play God and write my own stories. I’ve always turned to reading and writing for an escape when life gets tough.

What’s on your top 5 list for the best books you’ve ever read?

Breath of Scandal by Sandra Brown.

On the Island by Tracey Garvis-Graves

Comfort Food by Kitty Thomas

Torn by Carian Cole (actually, I’m going to cheat and put everything she’s ever written on this list).

Easy by Tammara Webber

Say you’re the host of a literary talk show. Who would be your first guest? What would you want to ask?

Sandra Brown. I’d ask what her secret is to being such a prolific author.

What’s your favorite thing about writing?

When I’m in the zone. Most of the time, it’s a hard place to reach for me, but when I get there, magic happens. The characters take over, and all I can do is follow along and see where they go.

What is a typical day like for you?

I wouldn’t recognize a typical day if it beat me over the head with a two-by-four. I need more structure in my life.

What scene in Swallow Me Whole was your favorite to write?

The scene where Ashton takes Sadie to see the Geminid meteor shower.

Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?

Not really. I just take each day as it comes.