Author Interview
Welcome to Jersey Girl Book Reviews, Carol!
Before we get to the interview, can you tell our readers a little bit about yourself.
Sure! My name is Carol Maloney Scott and I am a frazzled new bride and wiener dog fanatic. I have a 6 year old wiener girl, an almost 21 year old son, and I recently got married in June, which makes me the stepmother to a lovely 16 year old girl. I am a lover of donuts, and a hater of mornings. I live in Richmond, VA and I am originally from New York.
How long have you been a writer?
If you count all of my early scribblings, and all the writing I have done in my head – my whole life. If you mean how long have I been a serious author, I began writing my first novel a little over 2 years ago, unearthing a long buried childhood passion.
Do you have a day job, or is being an author your career?
I do have a day job. I work in talent acquisition/human resources for a large aerospace/defense contractor. While I enjoy my career, it is my dream to be a full time author. I am working on it!
What inspired you to become a writer? Describe your journey as a writer.
As soon as I learned what words were, I formed a very close relationship with them. I loved books from the time I was a tiny child, and once I learned to form letters on a piece of paper, I wrote stories. As a child I carried around a notebook and stared into space a lot. I am happy to report that I have finally returned to that behavior. It took me well over 30 years to get there, but I am happy that I found the courage and determination to make my dream come true.
Please give a brief description/storyline about Afraid of Her Shadow.
Afraid of Her Shadow is the story of Rebecca, a forty-something single woman who has always been loyal only to her cats and her career. She finds herself deep into a relationship with a widower, and her fears surrounding this situation cause her to go from calm and rational to zany and out of control, as she tries to manage the late wife’s memory, her fear of commitment, a surly teenager, crazy relatives, a very fluffy dog, and the return of a smoking hot ex - who only serves to complicate things even more.
What was the inspiration for this story?
I began dating a widower 3.5 years ago, and today he is my husband. My journey in dealing with his late wife’s memory was my inspiration to write this story.
How did it feel to have your first book published?
It felt like Christmas and going to Disneyworld and begin crowned princess and winning the lottery. Then, of course, came even more hard work, but with each book I am still elated. I just published my 3rd book in the Rom-Com on the Edge series, and it is still an amazing feeling.
Do you write books for a specific genre?
This series is chick lit/rom com, and for the time being I intend to stay within this genre – this series has so much more material. Every story creates another sub-world of supporting characters and they all want their stories told. I mean that as a figure of speech. They don’t really talk to me. Really.
What genres are your favorite(s)? What are some of your favorite books that you have read and why?
I do enjoy chick lit/rom com. Bridget Jones’ Diary by Helen Fielding is one of my all-time favorite books because I love to laugh. I do also enjoy serious fiction. Tell The Wolves I’m Home was a deeply moving debut novel, and I hope to see more from Carol Rifka Brunt.
Do you have a special spot/area where you like to do your writing?
Yes, I write in my home office. I work from home for my day job, and it is the only place in the house where I can block out the crazies and close my door.
How do you come up with the ideas that become the storyline for your books?
My storylines are partially borne of my life experiences, but greatly fictionalized and embellished. And often the zany situations my characters find themselves in are just a product of my insanely over active brain.
When you write, do you adhere to a strict work schedule, or do you work whenever the inspiration strikes?
I write when I have the time and I feel motivated. Often that is in big spirts. I am not good at a disciplined work schedule, and I always have a million things going on. I do, however, write fast, so once I get going my fingers can’t keep up with the words in my head.
What aspects of storytelling do you like the best, and what aspects do you struggle with the most?
I love writing the scenes where everything goes wrong, and the characters have to figure out how to cope. I struggle a bit in the middle of stories, but for the most part I love all of the aspects of the storytelling process.
What are your favorite things to do when you are not writing?
I enjoy bike riding, hiking, singing karaoke, dancing, playing with my little wiener dog, spending time with my husband and kids, and shopping.
What is/was the best piece of writing advice that you have received?
You can’t revise a blank piece of paper (screen). Just keep writing.
What is the most gratifying thing you feel or get as a writer?
I absolutely love when someone tells me that my books made them laugh. I grew up in a household with a lot of humor. Being funny was a very valued trait in my family. It makes me happy to spread that feeling to people I have never met.
How do you usually communicate with your readers/fans?
I am very visible and accessible. Most of my communications are through Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads. But I also receive the occasional e-mail as well. I started a newsletter not too long ago, and hope to expand its reach as a communications avenue.
Is there anything in your book based on real life experiences or are they purely all from your imagination?
There are things in all of my books based on real life experiences. I shared here that I am married to a former widower, which is the foundation of Afraid of Her Shadow’s plot. My first book, There Are No Men, is very loosely based on some of my experiences as a newly divorced woman more than 10 years ago.
What authors have been your inspiration or influenced you to become a writer?
There are too many to name. I have been an avid reader my whole life, and everyone who tells a story that I love has inspired me.
What is your definition of success as a writer?
To me, success is defined as having a loyal readership that eagerly awaits the next book.
Are you currently writing a new book? If yes, would you care to share a bit of it with us?
I actually just published a new book. The Juggling Act continues the story of Claire, from There Are No Men, as the POV character. However, this time the story is told in multiple character POV, so we get to hear from the men as well. Claire struggles with love, loyalty and lies as she embarks on a business trip with a much too young former love interest, while her husband is holding down the fort at home, and fighting off his own inappropriately amorous attention. The Juggling Act is Book 3 in the Rom-Com on the Edge series.
I am 22K words into Book 4, which will be titled Accidental Makeovers, and features Bianca as the main POV character. Bianca was first introduced in There Are No Men, and is struggling with career and relationship changes.
Thank you for visiting Jersey Girl Book Reviews Carol, and for sharing with us a bit about yourself and your writing career!
About The Author
Join her on "The Edge" for giveaways, cover reveals, excerpts, contest and members-only content at carolmaloneyscott.com/
Author Website
Goodreads
Book Review
Afraid of Her Shadow by Carol Maloney Scott
Book 2: Rom-Com On The Edge Series
Publisher: Independent Self Publishing
Publication Date: July 19, 2015
Format: Paperback - 344 pages
Kindle - 1506 KB
ISBN: 978-1515205890
ASIN: B0123ZVMUGGenre: Chick Lit / Romantic Comedy
Buy The Book:
Buy The Series: Rom-Com On The Edge Series
Book 1: There Are No Men
Book 2: Afraid of Her Shadow
Book 3: The Juggling Act
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
Book Description:
Forty something, self-proclaimed cougar, Rebecca is committed only to her cats and her career. Her veteran single girl lifestyle has been peaceful and happy – that is until she started dating age-appropriate Steve, an entomology professor with a sweet smile and demeanor to match. Who knew an insect scientist could be so appealing?
The problem? Steve is a widower with baggage to spare. Memories of his late wife fill his home. Smiling photos and jars of bugs serve as constant reminders of Steve’s continued attachment to his dearly departed wife, Noreen, who shared his passion for creepy crawlies!
Now that Rebecca is facing her commitment phobia by moving in with Steve, she is becoming more unhinged. Behaving more like her zany friends than her level-headed self, she burns her butt at the tanning salon, crashes on energy drinks, and even loses a hamster. Throw into the mix a few delusional relatives, a sarcastic teenager, and a fluffy dog who sheds a new dog every day, and Rebecca doesn’t recognize her old self.
And if that isn’t enough to push her over the edge, her smokin’ hot ex returns, reminding her of a simpler time with a man who carries no more baggage than a wallet.
Book 2 is a STANDALONE novel, as well as a continuation of the wacky and relatable saga of the ladies of Rom-Com on the Edge.
Book Excerpt:
I spot him right away. If he just leaned against the doorframe like that on a night when anyone was actually out, he would have women hanging off his limbs like ants on a hamburger at a picnic. That makes me wonder if Steve has an ant colony in his house.
How could Luke possibly have gotten better looking? I sigh all the way up from my toes. The perfect black hair, and SO much of it. His collar is open, revealing his perfectly toned chest with just a little bit of hair peeking out. His shoulders are huge! Were they always that big? I’m staring like an idiot, but he doesn’t see me yet. He’s looking at his phone. The stubble on his face. For the love of God, couldn’t he at least shave? He does get five o’clock shadow by noon. Now he spots me, and stands up to his full height. All six foot, three inches of dark, hot Portuguese blooded…
He puts his arms out and a slow smile creeps over his face. “Rebecca. You look beautiful. Even more than I remember.” He closes the distance between us and wraps me in a firm, but soft embrace.
I melt, but I haven’t turned into a noodle, since I’m still standing. “Hi, Luke. You look great, too. I can’t believe you’re back.”
He looks into my eyes and says, “I know. I can’t believe it, either.” He pulls me close again and now his hands are on my sides. I do not want him feeling my fat. There is no way he doesn’t see how much weight I’ve gained, but I don’t want him to have physical confirmation.
I break contact and gesture to the bar. “Let’s go inside. I can’t stay long. I have an early day tomorrow, but I want to hear all about the news.”
He holds the door for me, and as I duck under his arm to enter the dimly lit establishment, he says in my ear, “Yes, I want to share my plans.”
We walk to the bar and my eyes scan the room for anyone I know. It’s almost empty. Whew. New places never attract a huge crowd on a weeknight. They need karaoke or some other entertainment. Assessing the bar’s marketing strategy, I turn back to Luke. “Your plans?” I blink hard and swallow harder.
“Yep, plans. What would you like to drink? Still a wine drinker?” He flashes his perfect TV guy smile and I forget the English language. I do, however remember him saying “Eu te amo” while kissing the inner…
A swift head shake and I’m back. I hold onto the bar and respond, “Yes, sounds good.” This isn’t a “wine” type bar, but the bartender goes off to fetch some kind of alcohol. I don’t even know what Luke ordered. I am getting pissed at my lack of self-control. I’m acting like Claire. He’s just a man and I’ve been with many. Well, not that many, but I am forty-six. That’s thirty years of men!
Steve loves me. I begin to repeat those words in my head, like a mantra. Eu te amo. Why does “I love you” sound sexier in foreign languages?
The bartender brings our wine and Luke raises his glass. “A toast. To reunions.” I clink his glass and take a sip of wine. Luke adds, “And new beginnings.” Good thing I just took a sip and swallowed it quick.
“Are you okay? Was it something I said?” He is eyeing me mischievously as I cough into a napkin. Now I remember the downside of his charm. Those black hooded eyes and the cleft chin make it hard to concentrate on the bad parts. None of which are visible.
“I’m fine.” I take another small sip of wine to prove it. “So, why did you come back here? You had a great thing going on Entertainment Nightly.”
“I did, but it was all fluff. I need to do something of substance with my life.” He leans in and says, “You understand, minha querida.” My dear. I may have forgotten what a pain in the ass he can be, but I also forgot how easy it is to fall under the spell of this language.
He goes on to explain how he left the show and wanted to return to Richmond. “It was always a place of great creativity and passion for me.” He smiles seductively and my insides melt. Never mind what’s happening to my outsides.
I finger the bar napkin and steady my glass with the other hand. “Are you really writing a screenplay? I don’t remember you being a writer.” I narrow my eyes quizzically, then gasp as I realize that I just admitted to doing further research on him. “My neighbor noticed you on the news, and mentioned it.”
“My little party girl. You probably don’t even own a TV.” I glare at him in a playful way and he continues. “Okay, you probably do own one, but no cable, right?”
I nod. “So, how long have you been back?”
“It’s been about a month.”
I look down at my right hand diamond, purchased right after we broke up. “Violet and I did some Google searches. We also found some other...less flattering information.”
He puts down his wine glass, leans his elbows on the bar, and forms a steeple with his long, strong fingers. His beautiful, stubbly chin rests in the cradle. “Ah, yes. The rumors. You know me, Rebecca.”
How could Luke possibly have gotten better looking? I sigh all the way up from my toes. The perfect black hair, and SO much of it. His collar is open, revealing his perfectly toned chest with just a little bit of hair peeking out. His shoulders are huge! Were they always that big? I’m staring like an idiot, but he doesn’t see me yet. He’s looking at his phone. The stubble on his face. For the love of God, couldn’t he at least shave? He does get five o’clock shadow by noon. Now he spots me, and stands up to his full height. All six foot, three inches of dark, hot Portuguese blooded…
He puts his arms out and a slow smile creeps over his face. “Rebecca. You look beautiful. Even more than I remember.” He closes the distance between us and wraps me in a firm, but soft embrace.
I melt, but I haven’t turned into a noodle, since I’m still standing. “Hi, Luke. You look great, too. I can’t believe you’re back.”
He looks into my eyes and says, “I know. I can’t believe it, either.” He pulls me close again and now his hands are on my sides. I do not want him feeling my fat. There is no way he doesn’t see how much weight I’ve gained, but I don’t want him to have physical confirmation.
I break contact and gesture to the bar. “Let’s go inside. I can’t stay long. I have an early day tomorrow, but I want to hear all about the news.”
He holds the door for me, and as I duck under his arm to enter the dimly lit establishment, he says in my ear, “Yes, I want to share my plans.”
We walk to the bar and my eyes scan the room for anyone I know. It’s almost empty. Whew. New places never attract a huge crowd on a weeknight. They need karaoke or some other entertainment. Assessing the bar’s marketing strategy, I turn back to Luke. “Your plans?” I blink hard and swallow harder.
“Yep, plans. What would you like to drink? Still a wine drinker?” He flashes his perfect TV guy smile and I forget the English language. I do, however remember him saying “Eu te amo” while kissing the inner…
A swift head shake and I’m back. I hold onto the bar and respond, “Yes, sounds good.” This isn’t a “wine” type bar, but the bartender goes off to fetch some kind of alcohol. I don’t even know what Luke ordered. I am getting pissed at my lack of self-control. I’m acting like Claire. He’s just a man and I’ve been with many. Well, not that many, but I am forty-six. That’s thirty years of men!
Steve loves me. I begin to repeat those words in my head, like a mantra. Eu te amo. Why does “I love you” sound sexier in foreign languages?
The bartender brings our wine and Luke raises his glass. “A toast. To reunions.” I clink his glass and take a sip of wine. Luke adds, “And new beginnings.” Good thing I just took a sip and swallowed it quick.
“Are you okay? Was it something I said?” He is eyeing me mischievously as I cough into a napkin. Now I remember the downside of his charm. Those black hooded eyes and the cleft chin make it hard to concentrate on the bad parts. None of which are visible.
“I’m fine.” I take another small sip of wine to prove it. “So, why did you come back here? You had a great thing going on Entertainment Nightly.”
“I did, but it was all fluff. I need to do something of substance with my life.” He leans in and says, “You understand, minha querida.” My dear. I may have forgotten what a pain in the ass he can be, but I also forgot how easy it is to fall under the spell of this language.
He goes on to explain how he left the show and wanted to return to Richmond. “It was always a place of great creativity and passion for me.” He smiles seductively and my insides melt. Never mind what’s happening to my outsides.
I finger the bar napkin and steady my glass with the other hand. “Are you really writing a screenplay? I don’t remember you being a writer.” I narrow my eyes quizzically, then gasp as I realize that I just admitted to doing further research on him. “My neighbor noticed you on the news, and mentioned it.”
“My little party girl. You probably don’t even own a TV.” I glare at him in a playful way and he continues. “Okay, you probably do own one, but no cable, right?”
I nod. “So, how long have you been back?”
“It’s been about a month.”
I look down at my right hand diamond, purchased right after we broke up. “Violet and I did some Google searches. We also found some other...less flattering information.”
He puts down his wine glass, leans his elbows on the bar, and forms a steeple with his long, strong fingers. His beautiful, stubbly chin rests in the cradle. “Ah, yes. The rumors. You know me, Rebecca.”
My Book Review:
If you are looking to read an entertaining Rom-Com tale that will keep you in stitches, then Afraid of Her Shadow is the book for you!
In Afraid of Her Shadow, book two of Rom-Com On The Edge Series, the reader follows forty-six year old Rebecca, a human resource manager for Bella Donna Publishing Company in Richmond, VA, as she deals with crazy co-workers and Meetup friends; her lovable widower boyfriend Steve, who lives in a shrine of a house to his dead wife Noreen; and the reappearance of her hunky television newscaster ex-boyfriend Luke, and the resurfacing of her cougar memories of their steamy relationship.
Author Carol Maloney Scott weaves a fast-paced tale that follows Rebecca's trials and tribulations as she deals with crazy human resource work issues; her relationship commitment and phobia issues when it comes to Steve's "house of horrors," a shrine to his dead wife Noreen; and add in the reappearance of her sexy younger ex-boyfriend Luke to mix, and you get a sassy but confused lady who has gotten herself into one heck of a pickle!
Written in the first person narrative, the reader will find it easy to follow sassy forty-something Rebecca on her madcap adventures as she bobs and weaves through one hilarious mishap after another, while trying to figure out what to do with her fears, insecurities, and commitment phobia relationship issues.
Afraid of Her Shadow is a lighthearted tale that has quirky characters, witty banter, and a crazy good storyline that has enough romance, drama, and humor that is true chick lit rom-com at its finest!
RATING: 5 STARS
Virtual Book Tour
Tour Schedule:
November 24 – Varietats – Review
November 25 – Book Lover in Florida– Review & Excerpt
November 27 – ILove My Authors – Excerpt
November 27 – A Novel Haul – Review
December 1 – BookBabble – Review
December 2 – Chick LitPlus – Excerpt
December 3- LivingLife With Joy – Q&A & Excerpt
December 4 – Aroundthe World in Books – Excerpt
December 4 – GrannyLoves to Read – Review
December 7 – Jersey Girl Book Reviews – Review, Q&A & Excerpt
December 7 – Melanie Surani – Excerpt
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