A word to describe my writing space is fun. Such a simple word, but appropriate. Lots of colors, happy quotes, unicorn tears, and rainbows. And highlighters. Lots and lots of highlights. I call it Happy Town, and I am the mayor. Population: one. Sometimes I have special guests like Stevie Wonder and Diana Ross who have been serenading me as I’ve penned my latest novel, It’s Been You.
I typically write in the evenings during the weekday because I have a full-time job. After my 9-to-5 job, I have to have a transition, or a switch, that allows me to change my mindset from corporate America to being creative. I do this by either exercising or napping for at least an hour. This is not the best habit, but I either make a mug of coffee or tea, light one of my scented candles and turn on music. As I’m plotting a book or getting to know my characters, I create a soundtrack for my book on Spotify. 1,000 to 1,500 words later, I treat myself by reading a book, hanging out on social media or binge watching a TV show.
I don’t write every day, but at least four times a week. As I’m writing chapters, I send two chapters a week to my critique partners, and they also send me their pages. We come together to discuss our edits and often breakdown scenes, eliminate awkward sentence structures or word choices. My critique partners are worth their weight in gold, and it is equally beneficial to me, to critique their manuscripts. I have become a stronger writer. And, meeting with my witty writer friends is one of my favorite parts of my week! Two months later, I have a draft, and then I start the magical process of editing. I wash, rinse and repeat for three rounds. After my editing, I send to my editor, do another round of edits and then, Voilà! A novel is born!
Marketing manager Tiana Holliday just landed her dream job at an award-winning agency in New York City. There's just one problem: cocky playboy Nathaniel Lawson, her old grad school nemesis, is her new officemate.
As the firm's rising star, Nathan never had to compete for prime clients until all-work and no-play Tiana strutted into his workspace. When an opportunity arises to manage a lucrative sports car account and nab a big promotion, he challenges her to a wager: Loser does the winner's bidding for one month. But their friendly little competition suddenly threatens to erupt into an all-out battle of desire.
As they straddle the line between love and war, they just might discover that challenging each other outside the boardroom is even more satisfying than advertised.
Rina Gray has been writing and singing for as long as she can remember. She never had a talent for singing outside the shower, but her writing flourished. When she’s not writing, she can be found with her head stuck in a book, kickboxing, or dominating game night with friends and family. Rina resides in Atlanta with her husband.
