The NetGalley community is loving the romantasy subgenre right now—romance novels set in captivating fantasy worlds—and many reviewers have been hooked by Terina Adams’ The Unbroken Queen. In this series starter, an illegitimate princess is learning more the powers she possesses while attempting to decide who she can trust on her path to becoming queen. Here, Adams shares her writing routine, the impact and importance of social media, and romantasy.
Romantasy is a very popular genre right now! Did you always think that would be the direction you would take your writing?
I’m a very eclectic reader and have already written in four different genres under various pen names, so I’ll likely find my muse leading me to new genres in the future. I write for my enjoyment as well as for my readers, and I find it difficult to confine myself to just one genre. Currently, I’m thoroughly enjoying the romantasy genre and plan to stay here for a while—I already have another series planned and ready to begin.
Talk us through what a typical day of writing looks like for you.
I’m envious of all those morning people because that’s just not me. I love the idea of starting my day super early and finishing earlier, but my brain doesn’t function optimally first thing in the morning. My workday typically starts around 9:00 AM, after I’ve made my daily pilgrimage to the local coffee van and walked the dog. I usually warm up by re-reading the previous chapter. I used to write in one-hour blocks, taking at least a 10-minute break in between to move and stretch. However, I’ve recently purchased an under-the-desk treadmill, which has been fantastic. I can now work continuously until lunch. In the afternoon, I write for a few more hours and handle emails and the business side of writing. Depending on how my day goes, I usually wrap up around 4:00 PM and either go for a jog or walk the dog again.
How has social media impacted / influenced you as both a writer and a marketer?
Social media is definitely a weak point for me—it’s never been something I particularly enjoy, and so I have had to work at it. However, it can be an author’s best friend and a fantastic way to connect with readers. Gone are the days when authors were hidden behind a wall and readers had to send letters to publishers in the hope they may receive a reply from their favorite author. Social media allows authors to be real, personable, and foster direct relationships with their audience. It also has revolutionized book sales. Platforms like Bookstagram and BookTok have become essential hubs for avid readers to share recommendations and discover new books. These sites are invaluable for authors to stay in touch with trending tropes and understand what readers are looking for. Marketing on social media has taught me how to distill the core essence of my book into concise phrases, catchy memes, and enticing hooks. It’s a great way for authors to peel back the layers and get to the heart of describing their books.
What is your general rewriting process like from the time you start sharing your book with reviewers to when it’s in publication?
My rewriting process isn’t particularly lengthy because I do a lot of editing as I write. I also work with a developmental editor who helps address major structural, plot, and character issues. After that, I share the manuscript with trusted beta readers in my genre, who help fine-tune it. By the time the book reaches reviewers, I’ve already gone over it multiple times. If I notice recurring critiques from reviewers, I’ll make minor tweaks, but I usually leave the book as it is. However, I may take those critiques into consideration for my next series, especially if I believe they can help me craft a more compelling story. It’s important to remember you can’t write a book that pleases everyone.
What do you think makes your book stand out to readers?
Honestly, I’m not entirely sure, but it certainly helps that romantasy is a popular genre right now, with many readers actively seeking books in this category. However, the most crucial aspect of any book’s success is how well you market it to your target audience. First impressions matter, so your cover should be clear and genre-specific. It should stand out while still aligning with the visual expectations of the genre. Once you’ve caught the attention of your ideal reader with the cover, the blurb must then convince them the story inside is exactly what they’re looking for. It’s also beneficial to understand your genre conventions, and you’ll earn extra points if you’re familiar with beloved tropes within the genre. Knowing these elements can help you better meet readers’ expectations and enhance your book’s appeal.
Terina Adams’ life has been a tapestry of thrilling adventures and diverse experiences. From riding camels through the Rajasthani desert and white-water rafting on the Zambezi to bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls bridge and hiking the peaks in Pakistan, her thirst for adventure knows no bounds. She has piloted a twin-prop plane into remote First Nation communities in northern Western Australia and spent countless hours peering into the mysteries of the microscopic world in a laboratory. However, it was motherhood that brought a different kind of adventure into her life. Seeking an outlet for her creativity and restless spirit, Terina embarked on a master’s degree in writing. This decision marked the beginning of her journey as an author. Terina writes fantasy and paranormal romance. Her vivid imagination and diverse experiences breathe life into her stories, captivating readers with worlds of magic, mystery, and romance.
