Illuminating Worlds Through Fiction

An Exclusive Interview with the Bestselling Author

PHOTO: Renowned author Aleatha Romig shares insights into
her diverse literary universe and the secrets behind crafting gripping narratives.

Aleatha Romig on Inspiration, Writing, and Future Narratives

Aleatha Romig, renowned for dark romance,
discusses influences, favorite reads, genre shifts,
and overcoming challenges. Her diverse narratives
promise immersive storytelling and a thrilling literary future.

In the pulsating world of bestselling author Aleatha Romig, storytelling transcends mere words—it's an immersive experience, an odyssey through gripping plots and multidimensional characters that linger in the mind long after the final page. Nestled in the heart of Indiana, Aleatha Romig, a luminary in the realm of fiction, has woven intricate tales that traverse dark romances, heart-stopping thrillers, and soul-stirring sagas.

A luminary in the world of fiction, Aleatha Romig illuminates the literary landscape with her bestselling series, from the riveting saga of Anthony and Claire Rawlings in the mesmerizing "Consequences" to the captivating labyrinth of "Infidelity," transcending the bounds of genres and enthralling millions of readers worldwide.

But behind the authorial brilliance lies a woman whose journey echoes resilience and passion. From her days sculpting smiles as a dental hygienist to the nights devoted to crafting intricate narratives, Romig's trajectory embodies dedication and unwavering commitment to her craft. Her roots in Mishawaka, coupled with her tenure at Indiana University, have seeded the fertile grounds from which her narratives blossom.

Today, as she resides south of Indianapolis, Romig's literary prowess continues to flourish, earning her accolades from the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestseller lists. Beyond her writing, she cherishes moments with cherished kin and indulges in the joys of life, relishing the company of her beloved grandchildren.

In an exclusive tête-à-tête with The Reader's House magazine, Aleatha Romig unveils the enigmatic layers of her literary world. From childhood favorites to the books that shaped her journey, Romig shares insights into her reading habits, her beloved characters, and the diverse realms she orchestrates with finesse.

Join us as we unravel the tapestry of Aleatha Romig's imagination, delve into the secrets of her inspiration, and explore the expansive horizons of her upcoming narratives.

Aleatha Romig is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author who lives in Indiana, USA. She grew up in Mishawaka, graduated from Indiana University, and is currently living south of Indianapolis, USA. Before she became a full-time author, she worked days as a dental hygienist and spent her nights writing. Now, when she's not imagining mind-blowing twists and turns, she likes to spend her time with her friends and family, including her beloved grandchildren.

Aleatha released her first novel, CONSEQUENCES, in August of 2011. CONSEQUENCES became a bestselling series with five novels and two companions released from 2011 through 2015. The compelling and epic story of Anthony and Claire Rawlings has graced more than a million e-readers. Her next series, INFIDELITY (not about cheating) hit New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today best-seller lists. Aleatha has since released over fifty novels in multiple genres: dark romance, romantic suspense, thriller, and romantic comedy.

Aleatha is a "Published Author's Network" member of the Romance Writers of America, NINC, and PEN America. 

What’s your favorite book no one else has heard of?

- This is a book from my childhood. The title is WHY HAVE THE BIRDS STOPPED SINGING. My cousin was diagnosed with epilepsy when we were young. My mother found this book and it had an impact on me. It also involved time travel and the public's opinion of epilepsy. Perhaps it added to my love of OUTLANDER. In full disclosure, I haven't read it in nearly fifty years, but at the time, it meant a lot.

What books and authors have impacted your writing career?

Before I began writing, I was a fan of JR Ward and her Black Dagger Brotherhood. Her book THE BLACK DAGGER BROTHERHOOD AN INSIDER'S GUIDE was monumental in my decision to write. In that book, she talks about how she wrote romance and had the idea for the Black dagger brotherhood. She mentions her struggles. She discussed how she made her proposal wrong, breaking the rules. As an inspiring author, I had heard all the rules and learning that she didn't apply them to  herself to restrain her creativity was an eye-opening experience. 

What do you read when you’re working on a book? And what kind of reading do you avoid while writing?

My go to reads are thrillers. I'm a big fan of Greg Isles, Alex Michaelides, and more recently, Frieda McFadden. I don't have a problem reading while writing. My words come from within me. I let my characters come to life and I give them voice. I can read one story and write another. That said, I do avoid reading romance as the same verbiage is used in all books. I wouldn't want to even subconsciously repeat someone else's love scene. 

Who is your favorite fictional hero or heroine? 

While my answer is every single one I've created, I must say that if I could live in one of my worlds, I would want to live in my Sparrow Webs. This is a series of four trilogies all set within the underground of Chicago. The characters have an interesting living situation and I would love to live among them, the sexy, alpha men and the strong, so diverse, and supportive women. In that scenario, I would need to say Sterling Sparrow and Araneae McCree. 

What books are you embarrassed not to have read yet?

I'm going to throw myself under the bus. I have only read one Colleen Hoover book - Verity. And I LOVED it. As I said, I'm a fan of thrillers. I also know Colleen personally and adore her. She is a generous, giving, and fun person. I don't care for YA or NA. There was a time that her library consisted of mostly that age group. And as life has gotten busier, I haven't checked out new titles. I know I need to. Millions of readers can't be wrong. 

What is the last book you couldn't put down?

IRON FLAME was my last unputdownable read. In general, I'm not a fantasy reader, but I know Rebecca Yarros, and when I saw the success she was having with FOURTH WING, I had to give it a try. It didn't take long until I was hooked. I'm so impressed when writers can create an entire world, bring that world to life, and at the same time give us characters (Violet and Xaden) that we truly love. 

You were primarily known for your dark romance, with the success of the Consequences series. Why have you chosen to write in other romance genres?

Before I was an author, I was a reader. I love my dark thrillers, but I also enjoyed a palate cleanser, something light. As an author, I feel the same need to branch out. I still enjoy writing darker (what today is considered 'gray') especially with my mafia. That said, for six summers, I've released a 'lighter one'. These are low angst, steamy standalones. It's a fun break for me that I hope appeals to a different set of readers.

Aren't you afraid that writing different genres will make you un-brandable?

I want my brand to be 'Aleatha Romig'. That means that when you see my name on the cover, you know you're in for a satisfying read. Whether it's one of my series with corporate intrigue and strong sexy characters, a mafia series, or a lighter one, you will escape into the fictional world and emerge with a smile on your face and satisfaction in your soul. 

Have you ever had writer's block?

I don't know. I think I've had it recently. This summer was a busy and difficult period for personal reasons. My family is all blessed, but real life gets in the way. When I began writing, I was also working as a dental hygienist full-time. I wrote one book a year. Lately, it has been six or seven books a year. This year, the last writing I did was in June. It's now December. I've written one novella and have one more to go to fulfill obligations. I think after thirteen years, my mind needed this break. I'm more excited than ever to get back to the voices in my head.

What do you plan on writing next?

I have a few different storylines in my head. The last novella I wrote is still mulling around. I have difficulty leaving a story at 10K words. I just know there's more story to be told. I also want to write the story of a tertiary character from one of my series. I wish I could write an epic fantasy, but that just isn't my thing. I'll leave that to the masters who write and entertain us all and hope that there are still readers who want a twisty, turny, steamy romantic thriller.

Testimonials:

“Once again, Aleatha Romig has delivered a series that is worth the read. If you're into characters that have depth and dialogues that are engaging, I highly recommend this series.”
~ Myla Review

“With equal amounts of intrigue, steam, and twists, this is easily one of Aleatha Romig’s best duets. She has such a way with words; it’s very easy to imagine yourself in the moment with the characters. She gives you a front row seat to the drama and the heat. You will get sucked into Damien and Ella's story and find yourself glued to the pages. The mark of an amazing storyteller is one who leaves you wanting more, and that is exactly what Aleatha does.”
~ Jennifer Review

“Even with Aleatha Romig’s lighter stories, there is plenty of drama and heat and some angst. Devan and Justin’s story has it all. You won’t regret picking up this read!”
~ Molly review

“Aleatha Romig is very gifted at writing complex and thrilling books, full of mystery, suspense, and intrigue, which is overwhelmingly evident in this story. It’s always a good thing when I find myself suddenly gasping aloud while reading a book and that happened several times.”
~ Susan Goodreads Review

“Relevant Reign was the perfect conclusion to the Royal Reflections series by Aleatha Romig. Aleatha is the QUEEN when it comes to writing romantic suspense, and she doesn't disappoint, not only in the series, but with this last book. No one else can weave a tale such as she can. It was an amazing end to the series, and I think this last was the best of the series.”
~ A Wanton Book Lover Blog  Goodreads Review

EXCERPT: Remembering Passion by Aleatha Romig

Placing my room key in my clutch, I left my room, and headed toward the ballrooms. The elevator door opened and immediately the small hairs on the back of my neck stood to attention. The boisterous group of men within appeared to be in their twenties and based on their volume, in the middle of a celebration.

As I came into view, a few whistled.

“Hey, sweetheart,” one called, reaching out to keep the door from closing. “Come on in. We’ll make room.”

I feigned a polite smile. “That’s okay. I’ll catch the next one.”

“Oh, don’t be shy,” another said.

“I’m good.” I took a step back as the uncomfortable feeling that every woman has felt surged through me.

The men shuffled around, creating a space. “Look. Plenty of room.”

As my hands began to tremble, I took another step back, bumping into a wall.

There wasn’t a wall.

A strong hand came to my hip as the men in the elevator looked to one another and fell victim to a sudden curiosity in studying their shoes. 

“I’m glad you waited,” Damien said, tugging me to his side. He looked toward the elevator at the now-wide-eyed men. “Go on. Like the lady said, the grown-ups will catch the next one.”

I stood in Damien’s grasp as the elevator door closed. “Thank you.”

He reached for my hands. “You’re shaking.”

“It’s the air conditioning.” Taking a step away, I scanned him up and down. No longer wearing rolled-up sleeves, Damien was dashingly handsome in a custom-tailored dark blue suit, similar to the shade of my dress. Grinning, I said, “I see you read the memo.”

His gaze was like melting lava as he scanned from my head to my toes. “No wonder those boys wanted you in the elevator. You’re stunning, Ella.”

“I don’t know why I let them bother me.”

“Because they’re drunk assholes. If I had to bet, I’d say bachelor party.”

“That’s no excuse,” I said.

“You’re right.”

“I can take care of myself.”

“No doubt.”

The elevator door opened to an empty car. “Much better,” he said, holding the door open while I stepped inside.

My skin warmed as I realized we were alone.

In the bar, plane, and airport, other people had been around.

The inside of the elevator was shiny, reflecting our image in all directions. “I guess,” I said, “my luck hasn’t completely run out.” I curled my lips into a smile. “I appreciate your chivalry.”

“Purely selfish.”

I turned his way. “How was helping me selfish?”

Damien’s smile quirked. “If you happen to decide to be ravished tonight, I want it to be by me.”

“If I decide?” I asked with a smirk. “I don’t think they were asking.”

“I am.”

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