Unoma Nwankwor is tackling a lighter romance filled with the same African spice in her latest release, Pretend Bae.
Tell me about your latest book.
My new book is titled Pretend Bae. It’s a closed door billionaire romance. In 2020 during the crux of the pandemic, I decided to write lighter books and try my hand on some fun, flirty, cozy romances. It was all I could get out of me with the pandemic raging. So, The Billionaire Pact novellas were born. Pretend Bae is the last book of the series. My signature African flare is still present—food, places, language and music—but features a Black American/African couple. Brice Richardson and Imani Sharif are the stars of this friends-to-lovers billionaire romance.
What inspired you to write it?
I really was just experimenting in new waters. Currently, I’m plotting my next Christian romance that will deal with heavier topics. This lighthearted billionaire series has been a good stress relief for me.
When did you fall in love with the written word?
I fell in love with the written word at a very early age. I remember reading certain lines in books and taking a pause because the way they were woven together was magical and packed a punch. Something I still do till this day. In my teens, my mom would ask me to look over something she had written and rewrite it. I love words.
What’s the best part of being an author?
In the creation processes, the best part for me is rewriting. Pouring out the words in a first draft is a painful experience for me. However, in the grand scheme of things, the best part of what I do is the ability to share the stories and messages I’m passionate about with others.
What’s the hardest part of being an author?
The hardest part is the marketing and promo of my work. I wish I could just produce the book and an angel swoops in and does everything else. LOL.
What books have you read lately and loved?
Gosh, I’ve read so many it’s hard to pick one.
What book(s) are you most excited to read next?
Oooh, I’m excited about A Lowcountry Bride by Preslaysa Williams and A Good Name by Yejide Kilanko
Who would you cast in a movie to play your main characters?
Funny you ask that, as part of my process, I have to have a visual. Nothing comes together without a visual representation. So for Brice Richardson, I’ll pick Lance Gross, and Imani Sharif will be played by Keisha Knight Pulliam.
What’s next for you?
In 2019, I introduced a new family, the Dubois-Arazis. They are four wealthy siblings who inherited and run a luxurious resort in Morocco. They first appeared in my book A Promise Fulfilled. Next, I revisit them with Mustafa DuBois-Arazi’s (the oldest sibling) story. Expecting to release it sometime in late fall.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I just wanna tell the folks out there that these are trying times. Hold on to the confession of your faith, and extend yourself grace.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Pretend Bae.
To learn more about Unoma Nwankwor (Author|Speaker|Podcaster| Co-Owner KevStel Production & Publications), visit her website or connect with her on social media.
Website http://www.unomanwankwor.com/
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTaYllFF1y_nKsw16Ermk_A