Although her name has changed, debut author Zoey Marie Jackson is no stranger to the literary game. She’s visiting today to talk about The Adoption Surprise.
Tell me about your latest book.
Mia and Morgan who were separated at birth and adopted by two different families. Then the twins meet each other at summer camp in the small town of Swallow’s Creek, Delaware. Fast best friends, they are determined to be a family and to remain together. Mia’s dad, Zach, and Morgan’s aunt, Kelsey, agree to do all they can to keep the girls connected, resulting in their forming a friendship. But it could lead to more if the matchmaking twins have a say!
What inspired you to write it?
My inspiration began with a Twitter call! Dina Davis, the editor for Harlequin Love Inspired, talked about Sister Sister on the bird app saying how much she loved the show and that she would love to see a story like that, Being a major fan of Sister Sister back in the day, I was inspired. I began working on the storyline and submitted it for consideration. I was overjoyed when I was offered the book deal.
When did you fall in love with the written word?
I fell in love with the written word when I was about twelve years old. I have fond memories of visiting the library to borrow a stack of books and returning the next day for more. Books were my escape and guilty pleasure. I read for hours and one of my favorite spots was the bathroom. I would be in there reading, reading, reading.
What’s the best part of being an author?
The best part of being an author is seeing something you labored over be enjoyed by others. I love hearing from readers who tell me they stayed up for hours because they had to finish my story. There is nothing like seeing your words in print. Holding your book baby in your hands and then hearing others say they love your baby too.
What’s the hardest part of being an author?
For me, the hardest part is when I am at the halfway mark. I then battle feelings of uncertainty–wondering if my story makes sense, wondering if others will get it. But I am learning that I have to keep going. I can’t let this fear cripple me. That’s what editing is for: refining.
What books have you read lately and loved?
I am blessed to read advanced reader copies. I loved Vanessa Riley’s Murder in Westminister; Piper Huguley’s By Her Own Design; Vanessa Miller’s Something Good. Books that are already released: The Personal Librarian by Victoria Christopher Murray and Marie Benedict; Blindsided by Trice Hickman; Yellow Wife by Sadeqa Johnson. I have so many—check out my blog at michellelindorice.blogspot.com to see what else I have read.
What book(s) are you most excited to read next?
I am going to be reading Toni Shiloh’s In Search of a Prince. What a gorgeous cover!
Who would you cast in a movie to play your main characters?
Oh boy, I think I would be dating myself by suggesting names, so after a Google search, maybe Gugu Mbatha-Raw for Kelsey and Kendrick Sampson for Zachary. For the twins, I think YouTube would yield some good possibilities.
What’s next for you?
I have a release with Harlequin Special Edition, Rivals At Love Creek, coming out June 28 under Michelle Lindo-Rice and another in August. I also have another release for Love Inspired that should come out in November. Right now, I am working on books for 2023.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
Yes. I have to make it known that I didn’t get here overnight. Where I am now in my journey is the result of hard work and is coming to fruition after years—about 20, in fact. Getting here wasn’t easy, and I have a long way to go. So, don’t get discouraged if things aren’t happening for you right away. Keep working on improving yourself in the meantime. Don’t give up. It will happen. Also, never compare yourself to others. Begin to celebrate with those around you.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Zoey Marie Jackson’s The Adoption Surprise.
To learn more about Zoey Marie Jackson, visit her website and other links.
Website: www.zoeymariejackson.com
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/michellelindorice