1 what inspired the idea of your story? 

I initially wrote The Sapphire Project as a sweet college romance, similar to one of my other stories, back in late 2017. However, I hit a roadblock and parked it for two years, in hope that it could be resurrected.

2 what was something you struggled constructing with your story?

I felt that the sweet romance wasn't the right angle for the story back in 2017, and I wasn't ready to write an erotic romance. However, after a gentle nudge from a few fellow writers, I decided to bite the bullet and rewrite it two years later. I reinvented the characters and gave them more depth, which was a long process that required some thought. I also amended many scenarios in the story, but kept the same ending. The whole experience was initially tough, but once the story started to flow, it was smooth sailing.

 3 what has been the overall response of your story from your readers? 

The Sapphire Project has been my most successful story so far. It's featured in two official Wattpad profiles – Romance and Wattpad After Dark. I've generally received positive comments and private messages, mainly from readers who were probably happily surprised there was a decent plot and a romance that felt "real." However, I do warn readers that it is an erotic romance, has mature rating, and explores themes related to female x female, BDSM, and ménage à trois. Unfortunately, a few have been disappointed for that very reason.

4 what did you enjoy writing most about your story? 

I enjoyed the journey with readers as I released each chapter. Their reactions and encouragement motivated me to continue the story until it was complete. I also enjoyed feeling the main characters' relationship deepen and grow into a powerful love. 

5 is your story a stand alone novel or part of a series? 

It's a stand alone novel, but I am writing a spin-off where the main characters re-appear in supporting roles in this new novel.

6 what would you like your readers to take away from your story? 

I would love for readers to feel that they've read a decent romance novel. I hope they feel happy for Sapphire when she switches to a dominant role in the bedroom; women ought to have this power and this doesn't make a man less masculine or less appealing. I also try to break some of the stereotypes, including the "good girl" prejudice that the main character faces. Who are we to judge if someone is good or bad by face value?

7 what advice would you provide to other writers, when it comes to focusing on their story? 

The advice I give is for writers to not delete or trash their story if they're having a rough time with it. Put it on hold, and let it sit for a while. They may have an "aha" moment where the real story emerges and the characters start to come to life. For me, this process took two years. If they feel their story isn't salvageable after a while, then they should follow their gut instinct on what to do with it.

8 does the main character share any similarities with yourself? 

Yes. Like Sapphire, I've been judged as "the good girl" and the "quiet church mouse". Truthfully, like Sapphire, I speak my mind, I take calculated risks (not to hurt myself or others) where I see benefits as an end result, and I'm not afraid to stand in the firing line to protect those I love.

9 what is something of your story, you believe would draw in new readers?

Some readers are drawn by the steamy scenes but may be happily surprised that there is a love story and a plot. Others might like it because it breaks away from traditional erotic romances and promotes diversity, e.g. gender is not a determining factor for Sapphire's attraction to others.

 10 do you have any other future projects?

I'm currently working on a spinoff from The Sapphire Project (the working title is Wicked Seduction), and another book, a coming-of-age drama (not a romance). I want to diversify my writing and maybe write short horror stories later down the track.