Meet the Author

Author Interview: Q and A with Beth Moran

A photo of the author Beth Moran and some of her book covers

Warning – possible spoilers! (Tiny ones, though, and I’ll try to avoid even those; I swear I’ll give my best not to ruin it for you… :-))

Another end of the week, another author Q and A.

I’ve recently read Let it Snow, which should be out by the end of the month. Honestly, I enjoyed it so much. It was so refreshing to grab a Christmas romance and take a break from the long list of very summery books I’ve been reading lately.

As soon as I finished it, I may have bought a couple more books by the author, Beth Moran 😳😅. When you know, you know. And I for sure know I want to read more of her books, especially when her titles already have quite a few raving reviews to recommend them.

Until that always appreciated empty space in my TBR (overbooked as always, thank you for asking, but at least I couldn’t be happier with the list), here’s what Moran had to say about favorite books, guilty pleasures, most meaningful moments she experienced as an author, as well as her upcoming releases (which, btw, sound amazing to me).

Author Q&A with Beth Moran

Let It Snow is just about to come out. Who would you say is this book’s ideal reader?

Someone looking for a cosy festive read to curl up with, who will enjoy a story about family, finding your own path in life with lots of fun and a sprinkle of romance.

What part of the book was most fun to write?

I love writing the less likeable characters! Baxter Bigwood and his ridiculous job interview was a lot of fun.

Has writing and publishing books changed the way you see yourself?

Let it Snow is my 10th book and I still keep having those moments where I say, ‘I’m definitely a real author now, aren’t I?’ But I’ve had some varied careers over the years and I’ve enjoyed most of them. Being a writer is a brilliant way to make a living but it isn’t the most important thing about me.

What helps you stay focused while you are writing?

This is a tough one! I’d do a lot better if I had the discipline to turn the internet off! I set myself a word target for each day, depending upon how much time I have, and I find it really helpful to start off each writing session with a quick edit of what I wrote the day before, to get back into the story.

I am also a big planner, so I have a separate document open that contains all my notes, which I can refer back to if I start drifting. I also find that if I begin to get stuck then getting up and making a cup of tea will usually kick-start my flow again.

What is the most impactful moment you experienced as an author?

I’ve had some lovely emails from people over the years who tell me how much my books have helped and inspired them. One woman had a very significant phone call with her estranged mother after reading one book, which really blew me away. Those kind of messages make all the ups and downs of author life worthwhile.

Also, being offered a multi-book deal when my current publisher signed me a few years ago was a dream come true.

Which book have you reread most times?

I often reread my favourite books. Does the Bible count? If not, then probably one of Cathy Lamb’s books.

What is your guilty pleasure?

I don’t feel guilty about the things that give me pleasure, but if I’m honest then I do feel slightly embarrassed about how much I enjoy watching certain romantic reality TV shows (Love is Blind is one of them). I pretend it’s great research for writing romance but I don’t think my husband buys that excuse.

What would be the soundtrack of your life?

I love country music. I think it’s because so many of the songs tell a story, and while they can be sad they are rarely dark. Brad Paisley has a song called ‘She’s Everything’ that I never grow tired of listening to. But Amazing Grace would also be up there.

What fulfills you the most?

I’m a foster carer for teenage girls. It’s challenging, and many of the situations we come across are heartbreaking, but it is also the most significant and rewarding thing I’ve ever done (apart from raising my own children, who are all adults now).

On a less serious note, a glass of wine and a good book in the garden on a sunny evening is something I savour, and I wouldn’t be without my morning walk in Sherwood Forest with my cocker spaniel, Murphy.

What can we expect next?

My first book is going to be released in the next few months (probably January) with a new title and cover, which I’m really looking forward to as it has a very special place in my heart.

The book I’m writing at the moment will be published in the spring. It’s about, amongst other things, a woman who moves in with her twin brother and his two hopeless housemates, who then offer to pay her rent if she helps them with their non-existent love-lives. Like all my books, it features family, friendship and learning to love yourself alongside some romance.

#MyFavoriteBookish Tag with Beth Moran

Favorite trope: Second chance at love

Favorite character: Claire in the Outlander books

Favorite movie adaptation: I grew up a huge Tolkien geek so the Lord of the Rings.

Favorite book cover: I am completely in love with the cover for Let it Snow!

Favorite book ending: Eleanor & Park

Favorite time of the day to read/write: I read 1st thing every morning, and write best in the afternoons.

Favorite place to read/write: I’ve converted my conservatory into a lovely office space

Favorite snacks while reading/writing: I don’t snack while I write, that’s a treat for when I’m finished!

Favorite bookish drink: Earl grey made with real tea leaves.

Hardcovers or paperbacks? Paperbacks.

Buying or borrowing books? I love using the library to discover new authors

Bookmarks or dog-ears? Dog-ears (unless it’s a library book!)

Audiobooks – yay or nay? I prefer to read at my own speed so nay

TBR or mood reading? Mood reading

I’m currently reading: The Party Crasher

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