Romance author Mia Heintzelman is kicking off a new series. I recently spoke with her about The Divorcétante.
Tell me about your latest book.
While I usually write rom-coms, Ebony and Linc’s book is what I like to call a dram-com. Lol. Think drama meets a sexy, scandalous, second-chance romantic escape. The Divorcétante isn’t just a foray into a beautiful, messy, highly-entertaining world. It’s an experience!
How long did it take you to write it?
This book felt so grand, even from the premise. It took a little over five months to really flesh out the characters and imagineer the world in full detail.
Which character could you relate to the most and why?
I definitely relate most to Ebony Grace Livingston. She’s flawed, figuring things out, and ready to reintroduce herself to the world on her own terms. She’s betting on herself and the life she wants, and that’s what my writing journey has been. A little over five years ago, I took a leap of faith and changing career. It was scary, but I never wanted to look back and think, I wish I would’ve.
How are you celebrating the book’s release?
In just a couple weeks, I’ll be in Atlanta at Black Romance Book Fest. What better way to kick off the release of The Divorcétante [than] with my readers? I’m bringing so much swag, and I’m working with my publisher for a fun preorder campaign including stickers, bookplates, and buttons. Plus, I’ll be out in bookstores on release day, too!
Who is your author best friend (either in your head or in real life)?
I love this question! In my head, I’m best friends with so many authors. Most of whom, may or may not know who I am. Lol. But in real life, my author best friends are Denise N. Wheatley and Dr. Margo Hendricks (aka Elysabeth Grace).
What is the most valuable piece of writing advice you’ve received?
Write your own way. That’s the one piece of advice I always come back to. There’s always a new writing software, template, craft book, fast-drafting process, or “surefire” hack out there. But whether you’re a plotter, pantser, outliner—or something in between—it doesn’t matter. Just get the story on the page in whatever way works best for you.
What books have you read lately and loved?
I just finished Curvy Girl Summer by Danielle Allen and already can’t wait to read the next two books in the series. I loved Kristina Forest’s Love Lyric, and I’m so sad the series is over. Right now, I’m reading Kennedy Ryan’s Can’t Get Enough, and I’m savoring every page.
What books are you excited to read?
This question feels a little too broad given the extensive state of my TBR [to be read list]. Lol So, I’ll just share what I’m reading next in each book format. Sunny Disposition by Deanna Grey (audiobook), Just Our Luck by Denise Williams (paperback), and Preyed Upon by Denise N. Wheatley (ebook).
What’s next for you?
If there’s one thing I love, it’s strong friendships and found family. So yes, we’re getting more Divatantes! I’m currently writing book two in the series, featuring Ebony’s friend, Whitney. She’s in for hilarious mishaps, sexy mayhem, and an unexpected romance with a billionaire.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
Thank you for spotlighting Black authors and Black romance. It means so much to see our stories celebrated and supported. Every feature like this helps amplify our voices, and I’m grateful to be part of the conversation.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of The Divorcétante by romance author Mia Heintzelman.
To learn more about romance author Mia Heintzelman, visit her website or connect with her on social media:
Website: https://www.miaheintzelman.com/
Social Media: @miaheintzelmanauthor on IG, FB, TT, Threads, Bluesky
Publisher: Honey Blossom Press – https://www.honeyblossompress.com/