Page 41 - Reader's House Magazine Issue 52

What inspired the grumpy-sunshine dynamic between Brynne and Gage in Delicious Surrender?
It has recently occurred to me that I created characters that mirror my own life! Yes, I love reading about this kind of dynamic in romance stories, but this question had me examining my own relationship. Coincidentally, I have a grumpy alpha husband who can be ornery and opinionated, and I am the sunshine character who sees the bright side in everything. He has a multitude of wonderful qualities like Gage. Along with a brilliant mind, and steadfast integrity, he is deliciously handsome, and he often hides his soft and caring side beneath a bit of bluster. They say, write what you know, and I guess I did!
Which scene was the most challenging for you to write, and why?
The most difficult scene to write was the climax of act three. I wanted to create an in- tense exchange that would grab the reader by the throat and not let go. Crafting that highly suspenseful altercation was challenging and exciting once I found the right mix of distress, terror and shock for my hero and heroine. I cannot say much more than that, as the ele- ment of surprise is the best part.
What real-life experience or research contributed the most to your portrayal of
Luce Sutherland masterfully blends passion, depth, and irresistible chemistry, creating compelling stories that enthral readers with unforgettable characters and sizzling, emotional storytelling.
the BDSM lifestyle in the novel?
If I revealed my google search history, you would see the depth of my online research. I have also read all the classics – The Story of O, Anne Rice’s Exit to Eden and the Sleeping Beauty series, Fifty Shades, Bared to You and at least twenty Black Lace novels. I’m not admitting to seeking out hands-on experience like my character Brynne.
If Delicious Surrender were adapted for television or film, who would you ideally cast as Brynne and Gage?
Great question! I see Theo James as Gage MacLeod. He is English, has the right look, and is super sexy. For Brynne, there are several natural redheads who could fit the role: Emma Roberts, Jane Levy, or Holland Roden.
You mention self-care as important to your creative process—can you share one self-care ritual you practise during intense writing sessions?
Massage Therapy. Spending hours at the
keyboard can wreak havoc on my shoulders, neck and lower back. During a ninety-minute massage, I let my brain wander. Before I close my eyes, I focus on the next scene in the story. When I come out, I usually start typing the ideas into my phone immediately. I reach a higher state of creativity when I can quiet the noise of everyday life.
The book playlist includes a variety of songs—how did music influence your storytelling process?
When I was originally drafting the book,
I put a different song at the start of every chapter. I chose some of my favorite artists and songs that conveyed the right energy for the upcoming scenes. Some of the songs are meant for Brynne – such as Alanis Morrissette, Sia and Ellie Goulding. The darker, more rock inspired songs are meant to convey Gage’s heavier persona: Imagine Dragons, Niall Horan, and Joe Cocker. When my word count grew out of control, those were the first things to be slashed. Once I completed the book, I added my top favorites back and created a Spotify playlist for the book.
Is there a character or storyline from Delicious Surrender that you’d like to explore further in a future book?
Yes, definitely! After I complete the trilogy, which focuses first on Gage, followed by his two best friends, Cole and Aaron, there is a fourth book I’ve been thinking about. Mistress Patricia Valentine is getting her own story and I’m calling it The Hellcat Club. I’m excited because it will take us back to Scotland.
What advice would you give to fellow authors who want to write compelling erotic romance that balances spice, depth, and believable relationships?
Some recipes must be created in a certain order. I’m reminded of a cake recipe that requires prepping the dry ingredients first in their own bowl and blending the liquids sepa- rately. Then you fold them carefully together – little by little. My book roadmap is similar.
My advice is to start by creating compel- ling characters. Decide what will bring them together. If they start out as enemies, how will they overcome that initial dislike for each other? I spend several days creating character bibles for all the key players, then I set that aside.
Next, I plan an intricate plot that has plenty of twists and turns. I may not know every disaster that will befall my heroine, but I know there will be plenty of detours along the way. Finally, the most important ingredient is the spice!
For me, friction and chemistry are critical elements in a spicy story. As a reader, I don’t want to wait too long to feel that attraction
Delicious Surrender by Luce Sutherland is a steamy grumpy- sunshine romance featuring Brynne, an independent writer, and Gage, a domineering billionaire club owner. Their fiery attraction leads to conflict, betrayal, and high-stakes tension. With suspense, passion, and a hard-fought HEA, this captivating novel delivers spice, angst, and an irresistible power struggle.
and see it building. An erotic romance needs temptation, seduction, sizzle, and emotions that start out simmering and end up boiling to the surface. The plot should carry the story. The characters must be compelling and lay- ered, and the spice should singe the pages. Just like the cake, too much spice (or sugar) can ruin the recipe. Too many intensely passion- ate scenes can take away from the story. So, sprinkle it within the first three chapters and continue onward with careful moderation.
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