Interview with Vanessa Fewings, author of Perfume Girl

What can you tell us about your new release, Perfume Girl?

Thank you so much for inviting me over to New in Books! I’m thrilled to be here.

Perfume Girl is my new contemporary romance based in the world of perfumery.

The story centers around Raquel Wren, a thirty-year-old, newly divorced woman who owns a store called Perfume Girl in Dunedin, a small town on the west coast of Florida. Creating fragrances has been Raquel’s passion since she was a little girl growing up in England. Her life is currently in turmoil. When her latest, most precious formula is stolen from her shop, this could very well be the final straw that will leave her in ruins. Burning with emotion, she sets out to discover the identity of the thief so she can retrieve her creation.

Clues to the mystery lead her to the notorious South Beach, Miami where she encounters Astor Beauregard, the handsome, enigmatic owner of House of Beauregard, the renowned cologne empire. Astor is sexy, powerful, and potentially very dangerous.

Perfume Girl is a stand-alone novel, and I had a lot of fun writing it. Sparks fly between characters in ways that surprised even me.

What or who inspired you to become an author?

I’ve always loved stories. I wrote my first novel called DOGS when I was nine-years-old. When it comes to the inspiration behind dedicating my life to writing, Anne Rice played a big part. However, inspiration can come from anywhere. The universe can whisper to you at the most unexpected moments.

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

I must admit such lists constantly fluctuate over time, but if I had to pick five top books, it would be these:

• The Bourbon Kings – J.R. Ward
• Search – Judith and Garfield Reeves-Stevens
• The Idea of You – Robinne Lee
• Interview with the Vampire – Anne Rice
• Bridget Jones’s Diary – Helen Fielding

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

There are so many authors I’d love to chat with. In fact, this year I kicked off my very own podcast, The Romance Show. It’s be a true delight. Already I’ve had the pleasure of chatting with some of my favorite authors such as J.R. Ward. The podcast is available on iTunes. There are plenty of amazing guests coming up!

What’s your favorite thing about writing?

Having the words flow through me and seeing how the story evolves naturally, as though it has a life of its own. I love it when I disappear, and the characters come alive.

What is a typical day like for you?

My mornings usually involve a session of writing. During the day, I’m answering emails, chatting on social media with my readers, and doing things pertaining to publishing.

I have a Foxhound called Sherlock. He ensures we get plenty of exercise with long walks along the water and visits to the park.

What scene inPerfume Girl was your favorite to write?

The first scene. It felt very personal to me. So that was a touching way to start the story.

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

Trust the process.

It’s a wonderful phrase that reminds me let the book breathe and let it find its way.

Vanessa Fewings is the author of the new book Perfume Girl

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