Author Amberlei Jae is back with a new release. I recently spoke with her about Wishing On a Star.
Tell me about your latest book.
Well, my latest book is my fourth and second release in a new series based in a small city called Autumn Hills. Wishing On a Star focuses on the love story of Star and Cyrus. Star is a salon owner who lost her mom a few years ago and is also recently divorced. She has grown tired of her life as it is now and wants a bit more. However, she didn’t know that “more” would come in the form of 28-year-old Cyrus who is an upcoming restaurant manager at one of Autumn Hills’ most exclusive restaurants, AHUA. She meets him one night after work while she’s on a solo dinner date. They indulged in small talk, and the attraction was undeniable and from that point on, they began dating. Star becomes completely vulnerable with him but that all takes a turn for the worst when he hits her with news that sends their budding relationship completely left.
What inspired you to write it?
My inspiration always stems from black love and everything that it entails. I try to stay away from toxic love, but I will throw a few character traits in there that will leave one to deem my girls a “mess,” meaning they want love, but they are working on themselves in the process too. I also draw inspiration from what I see around me, on television, and how I can spin things on my own and give everyone the HEA [happily ever after] they deserve.
When did you fall in love with the written word?
I fell in love before I even knew what falling in love meant. My granny taught me to read and write at three and four years old, and it’s been a wrap ever since. I always kept books and journals by my side. I didn’t get the courage to start writing to be published until 2020 after seeing one of my favorite authors with a table set up a few tables down from where I had my online boutique set up. I was at a brunch that included vendors. After reading her books, I sent her a DM about it, and that was it. Months later, I responded to an IG story post she made about helping you become an author, and she said, “What are you waiting on?” basically, and it went from there. She became my writing coach, and within 90 days, I had drafted and released my first book, All Love. I fell in love with the process, and here I am now working on my fifth book to date.
What’s the best part of being an author?
The best part of being an author is seeing how creative my mind can get when crafting the characters and their story. The entire process of writing is unique and beautiful to me.
What’s the hardest part of being an author?
The hardest part is knowing that everyone won’t like what you write. You have to write for yourself, and they will come. Also, trying to write while taking care of two kids can be challenging, but I get it done. I write every day, no matter what.
What books have you read lately and loved?
Whew, it’s SO many good ones out, I’ll just name three 🙂
- Whose Love Story is it Anyway? —Grey Huffington
- Keep it Player—Mercy B
- MAAME—Jessica George
What book(s) are you most excited to read next?
My TBR [to be read] is a million books long, but here are three I’m excited to read.
- Because You Don’t Know My Name—K.L. Hall
- Love Letters From Memphis—B. Love
- And Then Life Was Beautiful—Asia Monique
Who would you cast in a movie to play your main characters?
Chile, that’s something to think about.
- Yara Shahidi for All Love
- Sierra McClain for Love Like This Before
- H.E.R. for Wishing On a Star
What’s next for you?
I plan to keep writing more consistently and fully embrace that I am a full-time self-published author now.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I REALLY appreciate this opportunity and thank you again.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Wishing On a Star.
Amberlei Jae is a full-time mother, wife, and author. You can learn more about her by visiting her website or following her on social media.
Website: www.amberleijae.com
Instagram: Instagram.com/amberleijae
Facebook reader’s group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1526335504558471/