Q&A with Author Maryann Jordan

I learn something new every single time I read one of these amazing Q&As. Quite often I learn several new things about these wonderful authors I’ve gotten to know over the past several years. Maryann Jordan is no different. I already know she is one of the kindest, most supportive humans in the authorsphere. I know she writes amazing military and romantic suspense novels with swoony heroes and incredible HEAs. I had no idea she started as a blogger. I love that she enjoys ice cream cake, because indulgence is important. I did not expect her to be a mafia or MC romance fan, and now I have more things to pick her brain about when it comes to finding new books or series to read (once I devour her backlist). And I definitely got teary-eyed when she wrote about her mother and her husband and their support of her career and author journey.

I’ve been very fortunate to be in the room with Maryann on multiple occasions. Her unwavering support of Charm City Romanticon, and her willingness and joy in interacting with readers and other authors, is inspiring and encouraging. Anytime I’ve dropped into her messages, she’s been quick to reply with an answer to my question, and is always one of the first to reach out with an offer of support for a fundraiser, raffle, etc. I count myself very very lucky to be part of her circle, and I cannot wait to see her again at CCR2025.

How did you get started writing?

Like so many authors, my career in writing began with a love of reading, beginning from when I could hold a book. When the first Kindle hit readers’ hands, I devoured every romance I could, loving that at my fingertips were all the worlds I wanted to fall into. I blogged for over a year before putting fingers to keyboard and writing my first full-length romance novel. That was over ten years and 100 books ago.

Where do you recommend a new reader start in your backlist? 

For my readers who enjoy former military security heroes, I suggest Gabe (Alvarez Security) or Mace (Lighthouse Security Investigation). For my readers who lean toward small-town romance with a twist of suspense, I suggest Coming Home (Baytown Boys). 

Do you have a favorite/most memorable scene/ part in a novel you've written?

In Bennett (Lighthouse Security Investigations), my heroine is visually impaired. There are a few scenes where the hero describes their surroundings in a way that makes them come alive to her. Even my narrator said that he was more moved by those scenes than by any other book he’d read.

In the Heroes at Heart series, there are many scenes with the indomitable Miss Ethel, who raised eight rag-tag boys to become the heroes they are as adults. In the final scenes of that series, my readers have said they were moved to tears.

Is there a part of your career as an author you thought was going to be difficult but has wound up being really wonderful?

I had no idea that writing would become a daily necessity for me. I am either writing, plotting, planning, or researching every day. And I find the researching to be so wonderfully enriching (not only for the story, but for myself). 

Are there specific themes, tropes, or subgenres you’re more drawn to as an author, reader, or listener?

As an author, I discovered that a touch (or more) of suspense helps me drive the love story. My books are always Romance first… the relationship is the most important piece of the story. But, suspense gives me the opportunity to place my characters in unusual places or situations. It gives me the chance to add in rich characters, both good and not-so-good. 

As a reader, I love MC, mafia, second chance, small town. 

What is your favorite part about being an author?

The combination of working from home and being able to meet so many people in person at signings or virtually through my reader and authors groups. I love the idea that my imagination sparks something inside others that make them come back over and over to trust that I will deliver a story that speaks to their hearts.

Is there someone(s) who’s been influential in your life as it relates to your career?

There are many authors who fit this category, and I hate to mention anyone in particular because there are too many, so I don’t want to leave anyone out. But I will say that to all the authors, readers, bloggers, and friends who have championed, worked on, and promoted my books, then I offer you my heartfelt gratitude. 

I have to mention my mother, who would take me to the enormous downtown library when I was a child and told me I could check out as many books as I could carry! When I started writing, she was already beginning the Alzheimer’s decline, but she was so proud. And even a week before she died, she looked at me and asked, “Are you still writing?” When I said yes, she smiled and added, “Good. Keep writing.”

But mostly, my shoutout goes to my husband. He accepted what I wanted to do with his constant support. When I became financially successful, he smiled and said, “I knew you’d be a success at anything you wanted to do.” He’s my signing assistant, quiet cheerleader, and sounding board, offering marketing and financial advice. He’s my rock.

How have your life experiences influenced your career as an author?

I was an adolescent and family counselor for twenty-five years. I understand human emotions in all types of situations. I create characters rich in experiences, give them backstories so that my readers can understand their decisions, make their dialog and actions real, and make a happily ever after despite many obstacles a reality. 

Art imitates life.

This or That: 7 random questions that may or may not be book related: 

Kindle or Paperback? Kindle - yes, paperbacks are lovely to hold, but I have thousands of books on my kindle.

Beach or Mountain Vacation? I grew up in the mountains. I now live at the beach. I love them both, and appreciate their uniqueness. 

Dogs or Cats? I have both, but cats will always hold a special place in my heart.

Ice Cream or Cake? How about ice cream cake? I love indulgence!

Action Flick or Rom-Com? In my twenties, I would watch an action flick with my husband. In my thirties and forties, I would watch rom-com. In my fifties, my husband and I started watching old British mysteries in the evenings. In our sixties, we watch movies from the past that we enjoyed in our younger days.

Tea or Coffee? Coffee in the mornings. Tea during the day.

Road Trip or Air Travel? I hate the hustle and bustle and crowds of air-travel, but there is something very dynamic about being in an airport. Road trips now have to be short for us, but I love looking at the landscapes.

Connect with Maryann Jordan:

You can find more information about Maryann and her books, and how to connect with her on social media here:
https://maryannjordanauthor.com/