Author Toni Shiloh is leaving it all on the ice in her latest release. I recently spoke with her about Hearts on the Fly by Toni Shiloh.
Tell me about your latest book.
Hearts on the Fly features an unlikely pair. Jabari is a pro hockey player who suffers from an offer hit, concussion, and deteriorating eyesight. His teammates decide to cheer him up by setting him up on a blind date a month later . . . to his ex’s sister. Val has always played peacemaker (she’s the middle sister) and so when she sees how much Jabari is dealing with, she offers to be his friend. Of course she keeps this a secret from her sister, but eventually their relationship begins to morph into something more and that’s when all the fun begins.
How long did it take you to write it?
About three months for the first draft but longer when you count the many rounds of edits.
Which character could you relate to the most and why?
Val, most definitely. I really relate to trying to maintain the peace and having a false sense of what that actually means and entails.
How are you celebrating the book’s release?
I would love to celebrate and go to a Washington Capitals game. Taking a picture of my book in the arena would be amazing. I’m still trying to determine when I can go.
Who is your author best friend (either in your head or in real life)?
My author best friend is Sarah Monzon. We’ve been critique partners for years, but we’re also really similar in personality, which means our friendship all the more better.
What is the most valuable piece of writing advice you’ve received?
Write in the little pockets of time you have. Writing for ten minutes is better than if you didn’t write at all.
What books have you read lately and loved?
I really enjoyed Rhonda McKnight’s Bitter and Sweet and Pat Simmons’ Shopping for Christmas.
What books are you excited to read?
I really want to read Vanessa Riley’s Fire Sword and Sea. I’m waiting on my library to get it.
What’s next for you?
I recently turned in a basketball romance to my publisher that will release in 2027. I also have a Christmas novella, Matchmaking Christmas, that will release September 1 this year.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
Thank you so much for having me! I appreciate it.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Hearts on the Fly by Toni Shiloh.
To learn more about author Toni Shiloh, visit her website, tonishiloh.com.