Tag: romantic comedy

My return to Amalfi…the launch of 24 Hours in Italy…Fan Expo…and more!

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It would be oh-so-easy to drown my keyboard in the pumpkin-spice-flavoured tears that gather in my upper face-holes when I think about how summer is truly over, but instead I’ll look back on the summer that was, the summer that included: a dreamy escape to Amalfi, the launch of 24 Hours in Italy (my follow up to 24 Hours in Paris—both of which are in bookstores now)—and so much more!

La dolce vita

What better way to celebrate the launch of my second traditionally-published book, than on the Amalfi Coast where it takes place? she said, via Whatsapp, to her Paris besties back in Feb, hoping their schedules would allow it.

The scheduling all worked out (with some glorious time in Paris too), and how did it feel to be back in Amalfi after almost six years? I mean, my god! I got to trace the steps of Mira and Jake’s adventures—inspired by coastal memories imprinted in my mind, eat that amazing lemon pesto pasta again (free recipe included in the book!)…it was a dream that exceeded every expectation, even faster than the pizza and pasta that would’ve exceeded the boundaries of my vacation wardrobe, had the wardrobe items not been billowy and/or elasticized.

Here are some snaps that illustrate just how grateful I felt about it all (though my occasional resting-bitch-face may suggest otherwise).

24 Hours in Italy made its way into bookstores!

When it comes to achieving dreams and creative milestones, I am the worst at sitting in it, enjoying it, and appreciating it. I am that type-A Aries monster who always wants to do more and achieve more and evaluate more and judge more and course-correct more.

Somewhere within that mania of this latest book launch, I was proud of what I’d achieved, things like the back-to-back starred reviews I mentioned in my last post, things like finally getting on a list this time, things like getting readers to actually try the lemon pesto recipe for themselves…what a journey. I was also proud that I’d written the series that I myself would want to read, with the armchair travel energy so representative of my passion, and the tropes that never felt like selling out, because they represented scenes and dialogue that always felt authentic to me.

Seeing a second book in bookstores and signing copies and having it on featured walls and end caps would’ve seemed unimaginable to the old me, from those times when I was rejected by over a hundred literary agents, and later when I embarked on that wild and aggressive self-publishing journey, and later still, when I lived through extended periods of being unsure of my goals.

Now that these milestone moments are here (for a fortunate second time), I often struggle to fully step inside this unlikely magical turn of events™. It’s here, and yet it’s out of my grasp in a way, and sometimes (often), I don’t know how to truly feel it. Just thought I’d be honest about that. I hope later, in quieter moments, I’ll be able to feel it more.

Fan Expo and being in my extroverted wheelhouse

At the end of August, I had the chance to do a panel and a book signing at Fan Expo Canada. I love doing panels. Truly, put me on every panel and let me talk my face off (if you know me in real life, you know I relish any chance to talk my face off).

Our romance panel was packed, and over ONE HUNDRED people had to be turned away—a stunning stat I won’t soon forget. I also won’t forget how it felt to be there, because unlike what I mentioned above, about my struggle to feel the author-y things, I don’t ever struggle to be in the moment at panels and book signings. Maybe that’s the good part about being a type-A Aries (and probably a 7 on the extrovert scale).

I mean…these photos say it all. Me, in my wheelhouse, wanting to chat with all of you about my books.

The best book club meetup ever!

Right before my book launched (while I was still in Amalfi and existing on a bloodstream made of limoncello spritz), The Book Wardrobe, a charming indie bookshop in Streetsville, reached out to me to ask if I’d be able to attend their next book club meetup—as 24 Hours in Italy was their book club pick for August.

I jumped at the chance to have an in-person book club meetup at an independent bookstore, but I never imagined how magical it would be. From how quickly it sold out, to the cannoli and espresso drinks made-to-order, it was the perfect way to spend a Saturday morning.

When the actual book club meeting began, and the enthusiastic readers shared their fascinating and thought-provoking feelings about the book, it went from a perfect morning to a deeply meaningful one—and I definitely got emotional when Carmela—who runs the shop—gave a passionate speech about why she chose my book, and why my words matter.

More of my thoughts are in this IG caption, but in short: a magical day I was able to feel to the fullest. Thank you

(Also, check out The Book Wardrobe in-person or shop from their website—we need indie bookstores to thrive!)

Coming very soon: Meet me at the Toronto International Festival of Authors!

Yes, it’s September, which means that #TIFA is coming soon. And what is that, you ask? Only a huge author festival I’d long wished to be a part of! And now, it’s almost here.

On September 23rd, I’ll be taking part in TWO free events that I hope you’ll check out—and 24 Hours in Italy will be for sale on site at the Indigo pop-up shop, how convenient!

You can find more event details on my Festival of Authors author page—hope to see you there!

So much is next, and it’s fairly uncertain and risky!

How did we go from magical and exciting to uncertain and risky?

Well here’s the thing: I am outlining my next book, and I have no idea what the hell is going to happen with it.

My future would’ve been a lot more clear if I’d written a third in the 24 Hours series, a.k.a. if I’d…you know, branded myself in the way that authors are encouraged to do.

Instead, I made a decision to say goodbye to Mira and Jake, and embark on something totally new. That decision made me sad in some ways, because I love Mira and Jake. I’ve also been missing them a lot, and will definitely have to re-read my book when I have time—and will of course keep manifesting to see them on screen some day, partially for me, and partially because more than a few readers have let me know they are waiting (im)patiently for that. I feel you on that. Me too!

Without Mira and Jake or any concrete plans for my next move, I started from square one and developed a brand new idea, and…I am so fucking excited about it.

I’ll come back here later to share more about my journey with this whole new story, but first, I have to tackle the metric ton of work that is ahead…(the outline, the draft, the editing, the full-time copywriting job that takes up most of the hours when I’d like to do be doing those things, oh my!)

Whatever happens, I know I won’t look back and say “you should’ve just done that third 24 Hours book, dummy, it would’ve been easier,” because…if I’m going to be a career author (which is my goal), I want to keep progressing and evolving as an artist, otherwise what’s the point of any of this?

So yeah, stay tuned for my chronicles of choosing chaos by making life more difficult for myself—which, I have to say, is very on-brand for an Aries who needs to calm down.

Toodles!

24 Hours in Italy will be out soon (!) + other thoughts

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Despite being notoriously bad at keeping up with my blog in recent years (to the tune of one post per year, eeek), this time it’s only been three months between posts, which is sure to delight *checks notes* all seven of my readers! Yes, this is all for you.

While this update won’t be as long as my other recaps, I simply had to pop in on this rainy Sunday in June, a gloomy day that seemed so fit for blogging—and for looking ahead as well, with my second book release less than six weeks away!

Another book, another freakin’ starred review!

Is this author thing all a dream? It seems like it, and it seemed like it even more when the second book in my 24 Hours series received a Publishers Weekly starred review, just like the first book:

Last year, when 24 Hours in Paris received a starred review from a trade publication it was extra special, after having begun my career as a self-published author who wouldn’t have been eligible for opportunities like that. It also meant a lot as an author with a South Asian background, since the industry still has some ways to go when it comes to representation.

But that was last year.

This year? Those feelings only deepened, when 24 Hours in Italy received a starred review as well. My editor and I always believed this book was special, we just knew it in our bones, but it didn’t seem likely that a follow-up book would get a starred review like the first. So we put it out of our minds. And then it happened, a moment that validated the difficult journey of writing another adventure for Mira and Jake, one that could live up to the first—and one that would be the ending they deserve, because there won’t be a third book in this series, at least not with my name on it, no sir. Why? Because I want to go out on a high note, so this series doesn’t become like one of those shows that doesn’t know when to end.

Speaking of the difficult journey, in my last post I touched on the challenge of writing 24 Hours in Italy, and I’ll sum it up now by saying that the only way I was able to create the intensity needed in 24 Hours in Italy was by opening up the Pandora’s box of my own nostalgia, and pouring some of those emotions into the fictional events of this book. I guess that’s what writers mean when they describe the act of opening a vein and bleeding the words into life. It’s quite the metaphorical sacrifice, and frankly I would rather sacrifice a goat than open up the wounds of old pain.

On the other hand, if opening up old wounds can make me some money, cut me open and let’s cash those checks!

You’ll have to judge for yourself how serious I was in making either of the preceding two statements, but what I can confirm is that no goats were harmed in the making of this book. I can also confirm that this special book is incredibly near and dear to my heart, and I can’t wait to hear what readers think.

Speaking of readers…

Some avid book bloggers and bookstagrammers have already read advance copies of 24 Hours in Italy, and hearing some of those first reactions has been uplifting, to say the least. Here’s one of my favourite reactions so far, and I can’t wait to hear what other readers think when the book comes out on July 18th. Seriously, you’re the reason I get to do this, and for that, I’m truly grateful.

And then The Word on the Street Festival happened!

Once the final proofs of 24 Hours in Italy left my hands and I had a chance to revel in the starred review, I found myself drowning in the combination of personal life demands and ad copywriting day job demands. I finally emerged on May 27th for a grand and auspicious day: getting to speak on a panel and do a book signing at Toronto’s The Word on the Street Festival!

I probably sound like a broken record by now, but this was another of those things that I’d always dreamed of doing, but it had never been possible when I was a self-published author (maybe it’s possible these days for self-published authors—I hope so!). It was truly amazing to get so many positive reactions at the romance panel, to meet so many readers and book bloggers, and to sell so many copies of 24 Hours in Paris! What a great day.

What’s next

I told you I’d be keeping this short (also, I love how my version of short is still like 700+ words), but I’ll probably be back in another few months (or maybe sooner!), to tell you all about the experience of launching 24 Hours in Italy (July 18th)! Until then, here are a few handy points, whether you know a little, a lot, or nothing about my journey and this book series:

–24 Hours in Paris is available in e-book and paperback format online or in bookstores, so if you haven’t read about Mira and Jake—the very opposite co-workers who fall for each other during a whirlwind 24 hours in Paris—now’s your chance (I’ll share a catch-all link below). This book is also like a virtual tour of Paris with real locations, so it kind of doubles as a travel guide if you’ve ever thought about taking a trip.

–24 Hours in Italy will be out on July 18th! This second-chance romance on the Amalfi Coast brings back Mira and Jake, but if you haven’t read the first book and are eager to escape to Amalfi, fear not, as the book begins with a quick recap to catch you up! Until July 18th, you can preorder the book from pretty much any bookstore, and preorders are immensely helpful to authors, as they indicate demand to retailers which encourages them to order more books.

-Whether you’re interested in the first book right now or preordering the second, all of the handy “buy” links are here, along with links to reviews, Spotify soundtracks for each book, and more.

Okay, ciao for now (already getting in Italy mode), and if you want more day-to-day updates, follow me on Instagram (username: romimoondi)!

Bookending 2021 with: A Book Deal, and a Freakin’ Finished Manuscript!

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It was mid-January 2021.

I was doing really well with my New Year’s resolutions, primarily because I hadn’t made any (don’t we have enough to deal with already, without trying to be even better? I’ll just keep being true to myself, thank you very much).

And then, I got the email. Less than a week later, it led to the official video call:

A book deal!

In my post back in August, I described the whole glorious and daunting thing, so I’ll pick up where I left things, and tell you what’s been going on since then.

The book cover

What I love about working with Wattpad (among many things), is how much they’re willing to involve me in the process. They gave me the opportunity to fill out a book cover brief in advance, detailing all the elements I was hoping to see, and flagging all the elements that usually make me vomit when I see romantic comedy book covers (the couple making out, the woman being so dolled up it’s completely unrelatable, etc.). That didn’t mean I’d get everything I wanted—since the final decision is not mine to make—it simply meant that my input would be considered, which was nice.

I suspect most publishers offer that initial input, but what followed is what really made me feel like they value my thoughts. The book cover went through a couple of iterations that were vastly different from one another, and remarkably, I was able to give detailed feedback on each one. In the end, when I compared the final cover to my original brief, it was so heartening to see how well it lined up with what I wanted—along with some cool direction from the sales team, on what they feel will be appealing on physical bookshelves and online.

Anyway, ta-da!

As a woman of colour (please read that in Mindy Kaling’s voice), it’s so wonderful to see “POC-ness” reflected on a romcom book cover, because a quick scroll online will tell you that it doesn’t happen often enough. It especially doesn’t happen often enough in a way that doesn’t feel like tokenism.

On that note, I am so thankful to Wattpad Books for at no point pushing me into making the character seem Indian in a stereotypical way on the book cover. That, in turn, has allowed the cover to more accurately reflect what’s inside the book. My main character—like myself—has a South Asian (specifically Indian) background, but she—as well as I—don’t spend weekdays guzzling chutney or weeknights sashaying around in fancy embroidered saris. Don’t get me wrong, I’m proud of my culture, but it’s a part of me, not all of me. That’s the same level of realness I aim to bring to the stories I write these days, whereas in the past, my self-published books were admittedly more entrenched in Indian culture. I suppose that happened because the books of the past were a vivid reflection of my life back then—i.e. the plot of the first book was literally about avoiding an arranged marriage, hashtag awkwardly relatable.

It was great working through all that shit back then (what fun!), but now I’ve settled into the everyday reality of being a brown girl in a North American world; it’s the world that reflects being light-hearted yet dramatic, multi-faceted yet obsessive, westernized yet culturally diverse, and messy as fuck!

The main character in 24 Hours in Paris has a cutting sense of humour, is obsessed with the City of Light, deeply believes in wearing casual clothes and flat shoes for touristy endeavours, enjoys wine, and is horny for scenic picnics (aren’t we all?). She’s also reeling from the recent upheaval of her personal life, and when the book comes out, you’ll be able to read all about it. In short, the cover reflects the reality of the character, and I couldn’t be happier about it. Oh yeah, there’s a guy on the book cover too, and while I certainly endorse him as a worthy male lead, we all know who the real star is (just sayin’).

The two of them are Mira and Jake, or Mira then Jake, or me before you, or whatever encompasses the woman being dominant and way more important (haha kidding, equality, yay!). Yes, these are your two romantic leads in 24 Hours in Paris. And yes, you’ll be able to read entire chapters from each of their perspectives.

And…*drumroll*…you’ll get to follow them around for a twenty-four-hour romantic Parisian adventure on May 10th!

The book release date

24 Hours in Paris will be online and in bookstores on May 10th! I know, I just said that, but it bears repeating, as it’s a pretty exciting fucking thing. You can preorder the book at Indigo and Amazon in Canada, at Barnes and Noble and Amazon in the US, and at Amazon in the UK. You can also preorder it directly from Wattpad if you’re in the US. It will also be available at independent bookstores and libraries in North America on May 10th, and if becomes available anywhere else, I’ll let you know on social media.

Physical advance reader copies

As you’ll recall from my last post, signing this book deal meant an overhaul; a total re-outline and a page-one rewrite to transform these characters from college students in the original story, to seasoned adults who have been through some shit in the reboot. I don’t even know how I re-did the outline and finished that draft by the end of July (after only beginning the process in April), but somehow I got there, and somehow, after one structural edit, a line edit, and then a final line edit (which my obsessive ass relished every minute of), we have a cleaned up version that is going into final copy edits as we speak—and, more importantly, that is now available on NetGalley for reviewers to request!

That last edit was completed, oh, five days ago (I’m still sweating), and we needed to hit those deadlines so we could make physical, juicy, advance-reader copies, because yes, I have been told that due to the exciting sales potential of this book, the marketing and sales team want physical advance reader copies; yay!

And so, if you’re a book reviewer on Instagram, TikTok, a blog, YouTube (or some other platform my withered old self hasn’t heard of), and you’re looking for a different kind of rom com, you can request a free review copy on NetGalley now.

Where I’m at now

Like I said, it’s been a mere five days since completing the 2021 book-deal-rollercoaster that kicked off in January. I’m definitely still sweating and my brain’s a little fried, but I’m here. Upon reflection, perhaps things would’ve been easier if I hadn’t embarked on extra obsessive things that weren’t part of the contract. Things like doing an 8-page marketing plan complete with a table of contents, so the publisher would know exactly where my head was at, to maximize collaboration. Or things like launching a weekly #24QuotesFrom24HoursInParis on both Twitter and TikTok. If not for those things, I likely would’ve had a little more energy on this Monday evening of December 20th, 2021.

But I am who I am, super extra all the time.

Despite my deep-rooted character traits, I’ve managed to stay involved in the usual human things.

Bringing back the bold lip and feeling fancy

The 2020 version of the holidays was horrid, and even though these holidays, while briefly wild and free, are retreating into that limited-gathering landscape, I’m impressed that I was able to freshen up my sweaty self long enough to slather on a bold dark lip, and even have some fancy-bar fun (on multiple nights, no less; just wild!).

The love of baking lives on

No one would have blamed me for skipping out on the baking this year, and yet, this past Saturday, I found myself spending nine freakin’ hours in the kitchen, baking all the things. I suppose it’s okay for one to feel occasionally exhausted by one’s endeavours, if said endeavours align with the things one loves. I believe this applies to baking just as much as writing.

And so, here we are, at the end of another up-and-down year.

While I’d love for you to now preorder my book—as the pre-launch demand helps authors very much‚ please only do so if you have some extra budget after helping out your favourite charities. Because, after all, it’s the season of giving. If you need some ideas on where to direct your donations, my post from last December can help you get started.

And with that, I bid farewell to 2021. It was a challenging year for society as a whole, but I’ll allow myself to say it was a special one personally, in terms of this lifelong book dream coming true.

I’m leaving the year feeling grateful, and even though I don’t really blog very often, I have a feeling I’ll have more to say before the launch of 24 Hours in Paris on May 10th.

Be well, and stay tuned,

Moved to Paris to Write a Book, and…IT’S HERE!

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Never.forever.web (3)Is there anything else I really need to add to this post beyond that title? If you saw me right now, you would observe me inhaling deeply and smiling with satisfaction, on this exciting release day of book three in the “Year of the Chick” series.

I DID IT!!!

This book (“Never or Forever”) is the reason why I didn’t blog for the last few months, and the reason why I spent many Parisian days and nights in my pyjamas writing away (I’m very excited to wear normal clothes and enjoy the city again, as I’ve got one month left in Paris to soak it all up!).

If you’ve been following along with the book series, you know where the character left off last, and if not, it’s important to note that books 1 AND 2 are FREE on Amazon for a limited time, only until September 28th as a matter of fact! Book 1 will continue to be free after that, but this is the first time book 2 has ever been free…it’s sheer craziness! So if you like romantic comedies with some edge and a not-so-fairytale vibe, go ahead and try them out! (book 1: “Year of the Chick”; book 2: “Last-Minute Love”)

Here’s the new book’s description to give you a little preview; so if you’re interested in Paris, in men (both creepy and alluring), and in the idea of asserting one’s independence and taking a new direction in life, well enjoy!

“Never or Forever” book description: 

For many people, Paris is the city of love.

Most of those people are tourists.

This turns out to be one of Romi Narindra’s first realizations, when she ditches her corporate job and moves to Paris for a year to write a book. It’s a year that will shatter illusions, assert independence, and maybe even leave some room for a love affair or two.

All the while, the past comes swirling back like a ghost with unfinished business, which raises important questions about hope and second chances.

Some things last forever, some things will never be, but one thing’s for sure: love in the modern world is not a fairy tale.

Oh well, fairy tales were never all that interesting anyway…

***

And to end today’s post, here’s a picture from a few days ago, when a friend and I had lunch on the riverbank after a jog; and no, I’m not sick of this glorious city yet…not even close. Viva la France!

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