Joining me today in The Loft is author Jill Piscitello. Jill writes sweet romance and cozy mysteries. A teacher by day, she often divides her reading hours among several books at a time. A lighthearted story offering an escape from the real world can always be found on her nightstand. When not planning lessons or reading and writing, she can be found spending time with her family, traveling, and going on light hikes. Jill also loves trying out new restaurants, but will order a Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap whenever possible. A native of New England, Jill lives with her family and three well-loved cats.
S: Good morning, Jill, and welcome to The Loft!
Is there any famous book you wish you had written?
J: Anything by Jane Austen or Agatha Christie. I couldn’t begin to choose one specific book. Both women set the bar for writing in their chosen genres.
S: I would have loved to have had a day to interview Christie and delve into how she mapped out her mysteries.
Do you write in genres other than romance?
J: Yes. I am in the final stages of editing a cozy mystery to be released in 2023.
S: Congratulations! It's always exciting to switch gears a bit.
What do people get wrong about publishing a book?
J: I think most people assume unknown or new authors exclusively self-publish. Finding a traditional publisher isn’t easy, but is well worth the effort of the querying process. The guidance of a talented editor is invaluable.
S: I have worked with the same editor for all of my books. I wouldn't work with anyone else.
What attracted you to your current partner?
J: Family values. Early into our relationship, I could see how important family was to my husband. I’d also been given the sage advice to pay attention to the way a man treats his mother. When you see that love and respect, you know you have a keeper.
S: What’s the best advice you have ever been given?
J: If you want to do something, take steps to make it happen. I believe there is something to be said for the power of positive thinking. But action is key--even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone.
S: What inspired "Tinsel and Tea Cakes?"
J: Victorian era romances are known for their swooning courtships, elegant fashion, and society or social norms. As a fan of historical fiction, I wanted to include elements from the time period while infusing the ups and downs of modern relationships. Without adding a true time travel storyline, I was able to create a Victorian story world set during the holidays.
S: Is there anything special you would like people to know about "Tinsel and Tea Cakes?"
J: If a busy schedule forces you to forego reading until the holidays are over, "Tinsel and Tea Cakes" is an entertaining, holiday novella perfect for the snippets of time that arise amidst shopping, gatherings, and life in general. This heartwarming story offers romance, humor, and a touch of mystery.
Here's the blurb--
Hair stylist Scarlett Kerrigan lost her job and her apartment. To alleviate a touch of self-pity, she succumbs to her stepmom’s pressure to attend a wedding in the New Hampshire White Mountains. Unfortunately, she runs into the vacation fling who promised the moon but disappeared without an explanation. Months have passed, but she is not ready to forgive and forget.
After a chaotic year, executive Wes Harley settles into his family's event venue, The Timeless Manor. His carefully structured world is shaken to its core when Scarlett arrives for the Victorian Christmas wedding weekend. The feelings he never quite erased flood to the surface.
When secrets are revealed, will a magical chateau and a sprinkle of tinsel be enough to charm Scarlett?
S: That sounds so romantic! Where can readers purchase your book?
J: It's available at--
S: Jill, thank you so much for joining me in The Loft. If you'd like to learn more about Jill and her books, please visit--
Thank you so much for hosting me today.
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