Interview: Danielle Pearl and Her New Novel IN RUINS

Author, Danielle Pearl went from self-publishing adult fiction from her bedroom, to getting signed by a major book publisher, Hachette. And now, she's now gearing up to bring her books to the masses.

Danielle Pearl turned her love of writing into a career. She's already the Amazon and iBooks bestselling author of the "Something More" series. She writes mature Young Adult and New Adult contemporary romance novels. Danielle released three self-published novels as e-books and will release her 4th novel titled "In Ruins" with the help of Hachette on October 4th. "In Ruins" will be available at major book retailers nationwide.

Broadwayword.com had the opportunity to interview Danielle about her fascinating career as a writer.

When did you first realize your penchant for writing?

I discovered my passion for writing around the time I learned how to hold a pencil. My mother used to buy me those blank diaries that came with those tiny keys, and my poor twin brother would break into them only to find they were filled cover to cover with complete fiction.

Who are some authors that have influenced your desire to be a writer?

I think as a child my greatest influence was Antoine De Saint-Exupéry, and specifically, "The Little Prince." I think that narrator lives somewhere in my mind, his lament about his lost career as an artist echoing as a warning never to see a hat where a boa constrictor sits digesting an elephant. As an adult, Colleen Hoover is a huge influence. Her novel "Hopeless" definitely helped inspire my debut novel, "Normal," and she's one of the few writers who's writing and storytelling are equally beautiful, every single time. Beyond her talent, she's also one of the true pioneers of self-publishing, and her career has helped pave the way for an entire generation of authors, not least of all myself. She also happens to be sweet, incredibly humble, and freaking hilarious. I want to be her when I grow up, no question. Penelope Douglas, too. She is my spirit animal.

Tell us about your absolute favorite novel, the one you might read again and again.

You can't ask a bibliophile that question. The answer changes on a daily--sometimes hourly--basis, depending on my mood. I guess I'll stick with "The Little Prince. Although "Les Miserables" is also an all-time favorite. Oh, and "Forever" by Peter Hamill and "The Dovekeepers" by Alice Hoffman. And I absolutely loved "The Goldfinch" by Donna Tartt, and I'm also kind of obsessed with "You and Hidden Bodies" by Caroline Kepnes. And pretty much everything Steven King has ever written. Okay, I take it back, my favorite novel changes with every breath, apparently!

What would you like our readers to know about your personal writing style?

My writing style is all about emotion. I love telling stories, but even more than that, I love the idea of making readers feel the story--experience it the same way my characters do. My books tend to be gritty, angsty, hopeful, and all about the feels.

As a writer, what is your outlook on the publishing industry?

I'm incredibly excited about what's going on in publishing right now! There are more are more avenues available to get books into the hands of readers, both for traditionally published authors and indies, as well as hybrids like myself. Digital publishing is ever-evolving, and new e-book features like moving pictures are just the tip of the iceberg.

What are some of your plans for the future?

I do have a few of those! Currently I'm finishing up my second of three manuscripts for my deal with Grand Central Publishing, the first of which, In Ruins, releases October 4th! I can't wait to invite readers into Tucker and Carleigh's world, to experience their heart-wrenching journey. Aside from my Something More series, I plan to put out a new series starting in winter of 2017. I do have several book signing events coming up this year, the schedule for which can be found on my website, www.daniellepearl.com.

You can also follow Danielle Pearl on social media, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Editor's Note: We have a short except from Danielle Pearl's "In Ruins" being released on 10/4 for our Broadwayworld.com readers.

She wanted to start again. To be someone---anyone---different . . .

Freedom. When Carleigh Stanger thought of college that was the word that came to mind. Freedom from her unhappy home life. Freedom from high school mistakes. Freedom from the memory of that terrible morning. Only instead of bringing a sweet escape, Carleigh's first campus party traps her in the scornful gaze of the last person she wants to see, Tucker Green.

It wasn't long ago that being close to Carleigh was everything Tucker wanted. But that was before he realized she was just another scheming girl who'd do whatever it took to get her way. Even lie to the guy she claimed to love.

She wanted to start again. To be someone---anyone---different . . .

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Danielle Pearl

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