Make no bones about it, debut author Chandra Blumberg is here to stay. I recently spoke with her about her first novel, Digging Up Love.
Tell me about your latest book.
Digging Up Love is my debut contemporary romance about a small-town baker and a big-city paleontologist who are put on a collision course when a dinosaur bone is found in the heroine’s backyard. Sparks fly, but Alisha Blake is focused on her dream of leaving town to open a bakery in Chicago, and her undeniable attraction to Quentin Harris seems like a big complication. This romance is all about following your heart and finding love where you least expect it.
What inspired you to write it?
My kids love dinosaurs, and I spend a lot of time reading to them about the topic, watching shows about dinosaurs, and visiting museums to see fossils. As an avid romance reader, I thought it would be really fun and unique to write a love story with a paleontologist love interest.
When did you fall in love with the written word?
Before I can remember. I learned to read at a very young age, and both writing and reading have always been an important part of my life. Growing up, I used to check out giant stacks of books from the library and write poetry and stories to give as gifts. I always dreamed of becoming an author, so to be embarking on this journey with my first novel is an incredible experience.
What’s the best part of being an author?
Finding out my book has resonated with someone. My greatest hope is for a story of mine to be a bright spot in someone’s day—making them laugh or cry good tears. I want to spread joy and create characters that touch people’s hearts and hearing that I’ve achieved this is a wonderful experience.
What’s the hardest part of being an author?
I’m very grateful for the flexibility of working from home but finding time to write as a mom of young children can be challenging.
What books have you read lately and loved?
I recently read The Dating Playbook by Farrah Rochon and adored the flirtatious competitiveness between the characters. Their chemistry was excellent, plus I can’t get enough of the fake dating trope. I also really enjoyed The Shaadi Set-Up by Lillie Vale.
What book(s) are you most excited to read next?
The Fastest Way To Fall by Denise Williams is one I can’t wait to read. I’m also excited for By the Book, a Beauty and the Beast retelling by Jasmine Guillory, and West Side Love Story by Priscilla Oliveras.
Who would you cast in a movie to play your main characters?
This is always such a tricky question for me because the way I picture a character’s looks and personality is tough to match up with a real actor. I think Lauren London would be a good fit for Alisha. Quentin’s smolder brings to mind Regé-Jean Page.
What’s next for you?
Stirring Up Love is the second novel in the series, an enemies-to-lovers romance releasing summer 2022.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
Thank you so much for having me on the blog, Chandra! I’m so grateful for the opportunity to connect with readers.
To learn more about author Chandra Blumberg, visit her website or connect with her on social media.
Website: www.chandrablumberg.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chandrablumberg/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/chandrablumberg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chandrablumberg.author
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Digging Up Love by Chandra Blumberg.