In this exclusive interview, we’re speaking with New York Times best seller Deborah Bladon. If you’re looking for your next romance read, Deborah has you covered with over 90 books to choose from. Whether enemies to lovers is your thing, or if you’re looking for a different type of drama in your love story, there’s something for everyone. Get an inside look at what started her romance writing journey, and get a peek at what she has in store for readers in the future.
Deborah Bladon
Deborah Bladon is a Canadian author who spends a lot of time in her second home, New York. Her love of romance sprouted when she was old enough to board a bus and check out numerous Harlequin paperbacks, and she continues to express her love of romance through her riveting novels.
The Questions
What drew you towards writing steamy romance novels? What do you enjoy most about them?
I’ve always loved reading romance. That began years ago when I’d go to the library and pick out a bunch of romance novels. I’d race through them and go back within days to grab new ones. I decided to try my hand at writing one, and it sparked something inside of me. I felt I’d found what I was supposed to do.
What I enjoy most about them is watching the connection between the main characters unfold. Whether it’s a one-night stand that develops into a lifelong bond or the characters are sworn enemies who finally let their guards down, there’s something magical about witnessing them letting go to let love in.
A lot of your novels take place in fast paced New York, what about New York sparks your creativity?
New York is such a vibrant place. Inspiration is everywhere. I’ve always taken notice of the people around me. Each has a love story that is unique to them. It could be an epic romance that has lasted for decades. Maybe they’re nursing a broken heart, or they round every corner hoping to find the person meant for them. Imagining what that might be sparks creativity within me.
A stroll down a sidewalk in New York City can lead to a new character idea. Something as simple as seeing a couple talking to each other while waiting to cross the street can spark an idea that becomes an entire novel.
What advice would you give to novelists just starting out in the romance world?
The advice I always share is to write. There are obviously many key components to finding success writing romance, but the foundation is the books.
Once you complete a book, start on the next. Keep the words flowing, and jot down any ideas that come to you. Those can be fleeting, so make a note of them because they could be the inspiration for your most successful book one day.
Which romantic hero is your favorite from your books? What about a romantic heroine?
I love all my heroes, but there’s something undeniably special about Graham Locke from Bull. Graham falls in love in such a gentle way that it even surprises him. His past is complicated, and when he marries his assistant to fulfill the wish of a man he views as a father figure, he finally lets his guard slip, and it’s this beautiful process.
My favorite heroine is Arietta Voss from XOXO. Arietta travels through life on her own path. She doesn’t conform to what the world might expect of her. She has a heart that is so pure and kind. My favorite quote about her comes from her love, Dominick, near the end of the book. He says to her, “You are what happens when good flourishes in a person.” I love that he sees that in her, and I hope readers do as well.
When writing your novels, what kind of scenes trigger your excitement? Which ones are more difficult to get through?
I’m always excited when the couple meets for the first time or reconnects after being apart. I believe that spark, or non-spark if they aren’t on the same page yet, is this unique moment that is ripe with possibilities. Every love story, whether fictional or not, takes a journey of its own, so I’m filled with anticipation to see what direction it will head in.
Most of my novels have at least a scene or two that deals with a struggle, whether current or in the past, that one or both characters have to face. In my novel, Bloom, the hero comes to a life-changing realization about his identity and makes a bold move. It’s a turning point for him and comes as a huge surprise to readers. I cried while writing those scenes and have had many messages from readers expressing how emotional they were while reading the book.
Are there any romance books or movies you turn to when you’re in a slump with your writing? Which ones do you recommend?
I love romance so much that it would be difficult to pick out specific books. My go-to reads are contemporary and erotic romance. I love richly layered stories that have intense characters.
I can’t deny that I love watching Hallmark movies. There is something so charming about them. After a long day of writing, it’s comforting to sit in my favorite chair with a warm blanket and watch two people fall in love.
After writing so many sexy and stimulating stories do you see yourself venturing into a genre that isn’t romance?
I do see myself venturing into another genre. I’ve been plotting a psychological thriller for the past couple of years, and I have a deep fondness for cozy mysteries. I’m not sure when I’ll make the leap, but I do see it happening in the future. Deborah’s novels are staples when it comes to sensual romance, and if you love New York City, her romances are for you! We hope our readers enjoyed this interview, and we give a big thanks to Deborah for participating.
Learn more about Deborah Bladon and her wonderful romantic reads here.
For other author interviews, click here to gain the Best Insights from Author Kate Doyle.
For more romance reads, check out this bookshop list on Bookshop.org.
