Author Aries Skye used real-life events as inspiration for her latest release. I recently spoke with her about Love on the Ninth Floor.
Tell me about your latest book.
Love on the Ninth Floor is a story about zany and vivacious Nissi Richards who always had her sights set on one goal—her career. As the youngest doctor at Optimal Dentistry, Nissi is the epitome of Black Girl Magic and a #GoalCrusher. Dating, however, was a different topic, or rather more of a non-existent headline. Despite her best friend’s botched matchmaking attempts and her meddlesome sisters who insist she hook a man, love and marriage were never on Nissi’s to-do list—at least not that she’d admit.
Kannon Jordan was a man of simplicity. Unimpressed with the whims of every short skirt that flitted by, or the sexy social media prospects, the ravishing fireman was content with the bachelor’s life. A cosmic shift in his beliefs takes a nosedive once he crosses paths with a dazzling doctor in distress.
When Kannon rescued Nissi from a malfunctioned elevator, she never thought she’d see the handsome fireman again. Suddenly, when a TikTok video goes viral, the two strangers are miraculously reconnected. Will Nissi and Kannon surrender to their feelings, or will they deny their chemistry and the possibility of love at first sight?
The narrative is a complex web of misunderstandings that result in missed opportunities. However, it’s the comical and heartwarming romance that truly stands out, making it a must-read for all romance novel enthusiasts.
What inspired you to write it?
I was inspired to write the book based on a real-life viral news story of a dentist trapped in an elevator. The headline sparked this beautiful, comical, and spicy love-at-first-sight story that is now Love on the Ninth Floor.
When did you fall in love with the written word?
I’ve been in love with the written word ever since I learned to read, for sure. Before I was a writer, I was (and still am) an avid reader. The ability of an author to transport my mind into a different era or space always intrigued me. It began my love affair with words.
What’s the best part of being an author?
The best part of being an author is having the creative freedom to develop your story in your way.
What’s the hardest part of being an author?
I’m not sure if this is necessarily the hardest part of being an author, but it is difficult to always find the time to write. There’s nothing more frustrating than when the well is flowing but you can’t break away to submerge into your pen. When a creative is unable to create, it is troublesome to our souls.
What books have you read lately and loved?
Recently, I read Kennedy Ryan’s The Kingmaker and The Rebel King, which is a two-book series and Queen Move, which is a standalone based on a secondary character from the series. These books are a chef’s kiss to unconventional romance. That series turned me into a super fan of Kennedy Ryan. Highly recommend!
What book(s) are you most excited to read next?
I’m most excited to read Kennedy Ryan’s upcoming release, This Could Be Us, Ashley Antoinette’s Butterfly 5, and my fellow author mate’s upcoming release, Candace Johnson’s Every Black Girl Dances.
Who would you cast in a movie to play your main characters?
Funny you should ask. This book is being optioned for film, so cast consideration has been at the top of my list. At this point, I have my complete wish list for the full cast, but I’ll stick to the two primary characters. For Nissi, I’d love for either Ryan Destiny (Star) or Ajiona Alexus Brown (BMF) to play her role. For Kannon, I’d love for Mike Merrill (Black Hamptons/BMF) to play his role.
What’s next for you?
I’m currently wrapping up book 2, which is entitled Love on the Rebound for release in fall 2024. For those who don’t like series or don’t like to wait long to read the series, don’t worry. This isn’t a series. These are standalone books, and Love on the Rebound will focus on Angela and Kinston, who you meet in Love on the Ninth Floor. I’m also gearing up for interviews with SwagHer magazine, Get Caught Up Author Podcast, and Black Authors Matter TV as well as preparing for literary events in 2024.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I would like to thank the supporters and readers who have given me a chance. I don’t want to leave anybody out so I won’t call individual names, but all of my BETA readers, ARC reviewers, bookstagrammers, booktokers, and bloggers who pushed and promoted, thank you! Thank you to Black Odyssey Media for believing in my vision. Thank you, Black Fiction Addiction, for allowing me space on your dynamic platform. My heart is overjoyed by the enormous support.
My book is available on paperback, eBook, and audiobook at Amazon, Walmart, Barnes & Noble, Target (online) and also via my website for the book or the SkyeStories Book Box.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Love on the Ninth Floor by Aries Skye.
To learn more about Aries Skye, author and entrepreneur, visit her website or connect with her on social media.
Website: https://authorariesskye.carrd.co (mailing list)
My Webstore: https://tr.ee/uEn_dyHiQX
Amazon: https://tr.ee/uEn_dyHiQX
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorariesskye
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ariesskye_
TikTok: www.TikTok.com/authorariesskye