Q&A with Author Charissa Gracyk
I don’t usually tear up when I read these Q&As, but Charissa has a habit of making me do that and I should have known better.
I can never pick a favorite author (it’s kinda like picking a favorite child), but just like my elderspawn gets the credit for making me a mom, Charissa kinda gets the credit for making me an editor. And yeah, that is something I am forever grateful for and earns her a seriously special place in my heart.
Let me explain: I was just getting back into the editing game when Charissa and I connected online through her Project Phoenix series. I was struggling with the rona creating havoc in my day job and my night job. I had thrown myself into reading, building my space as a fangirl/hypegirl/blogger, and devouring romantic suspense novels left, right, and center. And I fell hard for Oz (Project Phoenix, book 1) when I read that book. I friended Charissa (as one does on FB when they intend to become a superfan), not-so-lowkey squealed and did a happy dance in my living room when she accepted, and we started communicating about her book. I asked if I could offer some feedback (based on my experience in education and editing), she accepted, and the rest is history.
Well, and I guess technically, the rest is also the present. Because I am currently in the process of editing my nineteenth (holy crap!) manuscript for Charissa.
Whether you’re just starting your CG romantic suspense binge, or have already fallen down that rabbit hole, here are some fun facts and info about Charissa:
How did you get started writing?
I’ve always loved to write in general and I’ve been reading romance since I was ten. It only made sense to put the two things together. When I started my first book, there was no such thing as self-publishing, and finding a publisher proved very difficult, so my attention turned to screenplays. But when the pandemic hit and the Industry shut down, I came full circle and started writing romance again. I had missed it a lot and began researching how to self-publish. The rest is history.
Where do you recommend a new reader start in your backlist?
I’d recommend starting with the Project Phoenix series. It’s seven books long then spins off into Slater Security.
Do you have a favorite/most memorable scene/ part in novel you've written?
I’d say one of my absolute favorite scenes to write was in Reactivated: Cassian and had to do with a certain plane crash and a favorite character sacrificing himself for his friend and going down with the plane. Because, of course, there was only one parachute. Dun, dun, dun. Don’t worry, it all ended well. *I still haven’t completely forgiven Charissa for the heartstoppage this scene called for. And yes, I did literally slam my laptop shut and message her immediately before continuing to edit the rest of the book.*
Is there a part of your career as an author you thought was going to be difficult but has wound up being really wonderful?
The truth is I was nervous about finding an editor that I clicked with because there were a couple of bumps along the way to finding my editor extraordinaire, Michelle. I’m so lucky we stumbled across each other and every book we work on together is an absolute joy. I’ve learned so much from her and she is so good at getting the story where it needs to be. I’d be lost without her guidance and support. *And this is why I’m crying, y’all. Talk about your amazing journeys and things that are meant to be!*
Are there specific themes, tropes, or subgenres you’re more drawn to as an author, reader, or listener?
I love steamy romantic suspense and I’m a sucker for characters running through the jungle from the bad guys. Throw in some enemies to lovers and former military protectors, and I will smash that “Buy Now” button.
What is your favorite part about being an author?
My absolute favorite part is the friendships I’ve made with other authors and readers. The love and support I’ve found in Romancelandia has been amazing and I’m so grateful for it.
What do you like to read/listen to? Any favorite authors you want to send a shout-out to?
I love steamy romantic suspense, so that’s what I write. Anna Hackett is my favorite and was a big inspiration to take the leap and try this whole self-publishing adventure. She gave me some very kind advice that I will always appreciate.
Is there someone(s) who’s been influential in your life as it relates to your career?
Anna Hackett is a big-time influence. She writes fun, action-packed stories with swoony heroes and that’s something I strive to do with my books. My mom was my original inspiration to become a writer because she used to do some writing, too. And, I can’t forget Joan Wilder haha!
How have your life experiences influenced your career as an author?
I wrote screenplays for over twenty years and that definitely helped mold my writing. I learned to write fast, concise and action-oriented plots. The big rule was if the camera can’t see it, then don’t write it which plays perfectly into the age-old rule “show, don’t tell.”
This or That: 7 random questions that may or may not be book related:
Kindle or Paperback- Kindle
Beach or Mountain Vacation- Beach
Dogs or Cats- Dogs
Ice Cream or Cake- Ice Cream
Action Flick or Rom-Com- Action Flick
Tea or Coffee- Coffee
Road Trip or Air Travel- Road Trip
Connect with Charissa:
You can find more information about Charissa, her books, and how to connect with her on social media here:
https://www.charissagracyk.com
