Interview with Rae Rivers

Today I have the lovely Rae Rivers talking about The Keepers.

Hi Rae

Thank you for agreeing to be interviewed by cometbabesbooks.

Thank you for having me, Jo!

Can you tell us more about ‘The Keepers – Declan’?

This is the second book of the trilogy and although it’s a continuation of the story and the characters we met in Archer, this is Declan’s story.  They’re still fighting the war that threatens to shift the balance of nature but this book has some new twists,characters and a sexy heroine, Kate, whom readers met briefly at the end of Archer.  

Can you tell us more about Kate, Declan’s match?

Kate is a loner, an outcast in the human and magical world. When her mother is murdered, Kate seeks revenge on the warlock responsible.  This leads her to new discoveries and adventures.  She’s feisty, sassy, and kick ass.  Declan is complex and speaks his mind and she matches him at every step.  They make a gorgeous couple and share a beautiful love story!

Can you tell us a little bit more about The Keepers Series of Books?

The series centres around a powerful witch, Sienna, who is fiercely protected by three Keepers – three warrior brothers who are her allies in maintaining the balance of nature.  It’s a magical Paranormal Romance with lots of adventure, mayhem and hot romance.

Can you tell us why you decided to write these books as a series?

When I started Archer, all three brothers became such strong characters within the first few chapters of the book and I quickly realised that each brother had his own story - and so the idea of a series developed from there.

What inspired you to write a paranormal/romance novel?

Before this series, I’d only ever written romantic suspense and then one day, out of the blue, Sienna came to mind.  The more I thought about her, the more excited I became so I sat down and started plotting her story.  I’m so thrilled I did as I’ve had such fun with this series.

I love these books because there is not just 1 hot man but 3.  Is there a reason you chose to have 3 hot men as main characters as well as Sienna and now Kate?

It’s a huge cast of main characters but I think it’s worked really well.  With Sienna’s responsibilities comes great dangers, hence her need for protection – her three Keepers.  Each brother is so hot and strong in his own way and they each bring a different dimension to the series.  They each have their own book and their own heroine so as the series has developed, I’ve introduced more heroines.  For Declan, it’s Kate.  Ethan has his heroine too but I can’t give any details on that yet!

Which has been your favourite book to write so far Sienna, Archer or Declan?

I’ve loved them all for different reasons and writing each book was a different experience for me.  I wrote Archer for myself so there was a lot of creative freedom and less worrying.  After signing with HarperCollins for the entire series, I wrote Sienna which was the first novella I’d ever written.  That was a lot of fun and so much easier than my full length novels!  As for writing Declan, I’ve learnt so much since publishing the last two books and it was great to bring that into my writing but it’s been a little more challenging as I have awesome readers eagerly awaiting his story.  With that comes a pressure of its own as I don’t want to disappoint them!  Hopefully they’ll love Declan’s story as much as Archer’s.

Can you tell us more about your writing process?  I.e. do you make notes, speak to your husband/friends etc

I’m constantly plotting and planning, making notes and gathering ideas.  I’m also a huge fan of Pinterest!   I frequently bounce ideas off my editor as well as my best friend who is an avid paranormal reader.  They’re both so enthusiastic about this series and I’m so fortunate to have them.  

Do you have a favourite place you like to write and why?

I have a home office where I spend most of my serious writing time but as I have small children, I tend to write around them too – it can be anything from writing on the couch, in the garden, at a coffee shop or on my bed!

What inspired you to take up writing?

My love of storytelling.  I’ve been writing since I was 12 years old and just adore it.  Now that readers are reading my books, enjoying my stories and asking for more, I’m more inspired than ever to continue!

Are any of your characters based on people you know?

None at all.  I keep my real life and my fantasy life completely separate.

What items are on your desk/where you write?

My laptop, coffee, water, my radio, stationery, my notepads, pin board, and photographs of my characters.

Any tips for writers who are just starting out?

Reach out to other authors – we’re a helpful bunch! I’ve made the most amazing friends online.  I’ve learnt so much from them and their encouragement and support is invaluable.  Also, read a lot and keep writing!

What do you like to do when you're not writing?

Family time, reading, watching TV, being outdoors, socialising with friends, and travelling – I love travelling!

Do you like it quiet when you're writing or do you need background noise? (music or TV)

It depends on the complexity of the scene I’m writing. When it’s a tricky, thoughtful scene, I prefer silence but there are times I also enjoying listening to music.  If my kids are around and I’m struggling to concentrate (I can tune out the music but not my kiddies!) then I’ll put my earphones on.  Nickelback has been my inspiration for this series so whenever I need an extra push for creativity, I listen to them.  Works every time.

If these books were made into a film/TV series, who would you like as the leading lady/man?

How exciting!  I’ve always envisioned Sienna as a younger Nicole Kidman with red hair and Archer as Channing Tatum.  

Thanks Rae and I hope my questions weren’t too tough!

Jo xx

The Keepers - Declan is out now!