Author Michelle Lindo-Rice is back with the latest installment in her Seven Brides for Seven Brothers series. I recently spoke with her about Cinderella’s last stand.
Tell me about your latest book.
Cinderella’s Last Stand is the second book in the Seven Brides for Seven Brothers series. It is about a spoiled celebrity (Axel) whose capable, feisty, shoe-loving assistant (Maddie) has had enough of his self-centered behavior and gives him her two weeks’ notice. Cinderella’s Last Stand is loosely based on Two Weeks’ Notice and of course, has that whole Cinderella vibe.
What inspired you to write it?
I love fairytales and was grateful for the opportunity to give homage to Cinderella. Who doesn’t like to see the regular girl-next-door get the hot guy?
When did you fall in love with the written word?
From a young teen, I fell in love with reading, and it was the most rewarding, consistent relationship I have had for many years. I love books, and there is nothing like a good story that gives you all the feels, that sucks you in, that makes you laugh and cry. It all started with Jane Eyre.
What’s the best part of being an author?
The best part for me is the readers. They motivate you and keep you going. Readers who leave reviews are the best, and I know some who faithfully do it and who support by purchasing my work. It is great interacting with them and talking about the characters like they are “real” people. It is especially meaningful when a reader says this story helped them.
What’s the hardest part of being an author?
The hardest part is how lonely it can be. You are sitting there wondering if the words on the page make sense. But that’s why the revision phase is necessary. It is hard having someone critique your work, but you know after the process, you’ll have a better product. It is also encouraging to be in a supportive author group. It helps.
What books have you read lately and loved?
I am currently reading Overkill by Sandra Brown, and it is so good already. The Hookup Plan by Farrah Rochon was also really good.
What book(s) are you most excited to read next?
I can’t wait to get my hands on The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson. She did that thing with Yellow Wife. Also, Rhonda McKnight has The Thing About Home coming, and I must read LaQuette’s Cinderella Masquerade.
Who would you cast in a movie to play your main characters?
Oh goodness…. I have no idea. Maybe Amandla Stenberg. Whoever plays Maddie needs to have her shoe-game on point. And Keith Powers for Axel. As usual, I have to Google hot young actors to get a clue.
What’s next for you?
I am currently editing The Valentine’s Do-Over, a standalone for Special Edition and writing Four Little Words for Mira, which is scheduled for a 2023 release. I am also eager to help other underrepresented authors achieve their publishing goals, so I am venturing into literary agenting. Starting September 1, I am a literary associate with Olswanger Literary as Michelle Jackson.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I want to thank all the readers and bloggers such as Black Fiction Addiction who continuously support black authors. It means a lot.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Cinderella’s Last Stand.
To learn more about Michelle Lindo-Rice, visit her website or connect with her on Twitter.
Website: www.michellelindorice.com
Twitter: twitter.com/mlindorice