Tracey Livesay is the 2021 Emma Award winner for Best Interracial Romance for Like Lovers Do, which was also named one of the 100 Best Fiction Books of 2020 by Kirkus Reviews. Her upcoming novel, American Royalty, a dangerously sexy rom-com that evokes the real-life romance between Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan Markle, is one of the most anticipated books of 2022. In addition to being named to USA Today’s list of “100 Black Novelists You Should Read,” she’s been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Chicago Tribune, Entertainment Weekly, and on CBS This Morning. A former criminal defense attorney, Tracey lives in Virginia with her husband–who she met on the very first day of law school–and their three children.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
Books and reading have been a part of my life since I was little. Even when I was a kid, I wrote short stories, poems, and plays for my church. Through high school, college, and law school I continued to write, but just for me and my friends. It would be another 10 years before I’d decide to try to pursue writing professionally.
Which genre are you most passionate about?
Romance, no question. I read my first romance novel when I was 12 years old, and I was hooked. Even now, there’s nothing I love more than curling up with a great romance, ready to experience all the highs and lows, safe in the knowledge that it’ll end in a happily ever after.
What is one of the most surprising things you learned while publishing your work?
I’m traditionally published, and I was stunned to learn how little control authors can have over anything outside of their actual stories. From the cover to keyword selections to when your book goes on sale, these decisions are made by your publisher. I would look at a cover and if the picture deviated from the description inside, I’d blame the author. Now I know better. We do have a say, so the more informed input you can give, the more likely they’ll be to consider your suggestions.
How has being a former criminal defense attorney influenced your work as a writer?
It hasn’t influenced my work as much as my approach to getting published and my writing process. I’m no stranger to research and analytical thinking and I think both of those helped me figure out how to proceed to get the attention of agents and editors.
What advice would you offer new writers?
There’s no one right way to do this. There’s only the way that works for you. Don’t let anyone tell you that their way is the correct way. Figure out the process that works for you. It has taken me years because I learn new things with each project. (I meant this in regard to writing/craft but it also applies to your career and what track you want to pursue.)