Interview with Ren Alexander
Published 2022-12-31.
What is your e-reading device of choice?
My iPad or Kindle, but I still love a real-life paperback any day.
Describe your desk.
I have a U-shaped desk with two huge monitors and a keyboard for my day job, and then my laptop off to the side for my real job. I have a new office, which is bigger and has a closet and its own bathroom.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I was born in Wheeling, West Virginia, but spent my formative years in Bethany, West Virginia. I had a challenging childhood, so I bring some of those emotions into my writing. It's therapeutic.
When did you first start writing?
I've always been writing since I was able to pick up a pencil. I loved my English classes but moved on to other things when writing wasn't paying the bills and I had lost all motivation. In college, I took a creative writing class when I majored in criminal justice, and I fell back in love with writing.
What's the story behind your latest book?
Greg Rodwell is on the path to becoming a lawyer but when he lost Simone, he makes it his mission to get her back. But her moving on without him is a major blow to his plans.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
I tried the traditional route: submitting query letters to an endless stream of agents. Unfortunately (which is a word common in each letter), I was rejected more times than I care to admit. Going Indie, I get to write what I want, when I want, and how I want.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
To share the voices in my head. Just kidding.
No I'm not.
I love when readers reach out to me. It's the best.
What are you working on next?
The third book in Greg Rodwell's Unraveled Renegade Series, Unleashed.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
Refereeing my two daughters or two cats, or a mix. Seriously.
I also love to read.
How do you discover the ebooks you read?
Word of mouth or just taking a chance by the synopsis I read. I've found some great stories on Wattpad!
What is your writing process?
I listen to music with big headphones. When I'm writing, I have to listen to the same song on repeat to catch the mood of the scene. I can't listen to random songs because it breaks my train of thought. I also like writing in the dark while listening to my music. Brownie Brittle is my go-to snack when writing.
Do you remember the first story you ever read that had an impact on you?
Jackie Collins' books. Those really opened my eyes.
How do you approach cover design?
I don't opt for the shirtless guys. They're nice to look at and I know readers seem to love them the most, but that's not what my stories are strictly about. There are so many layers to my stories, but also hot sex.
What do you read for pleasure?
Romance, but there has to be humor. I love a side of laughter.
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