Interviewer : Amā Shavi

Meet DQ, DramaticQu33n author of  'Romancing my Boss' and 'Queen of Steel : Throne of Lies'. In 'Romancing My Boss,' Charlotte Bennett navigates comedic mishaps and unexpected sparks with her intimidating boss, Maximilian Pemberton.'Queen of Steel' follows Tahlia Steelman's transformation from a privileged heiress to facing dark family secrets and unexpected desires. DQ's storytelling blends drama with witty banter and electric chemistry, delivering captivating tales of love, redemption, and personal discovery.

Before we start, can you share a bit about yourself and how your journey as a writer began? 

I'm a reader turned writer, enchanted by stories since childhood. My passion for romance, though, comes from the telenovelas I adored growing up. One that truly defined my youth was 'Yo soy Betty, la fea' (Ugly Betty). As a self-proclaimed smart ugly duckling, Betty's journey resonated deeply with me, blending romance and comedy in a way that still inspires my writing today.  

1. Imagine your book is being made into a movie. Who would you cast as the lead roles, and why? 

Oh, casting my characters is like a delicious daydream! For Charlotte, I'd love Mila Kunis - her sassy humor is perfect for Charlotte's colorful personality. Ana de Armas is my backup; they'd both nail the physical description and attitude.

Now, for Max... *fans self dramatically Henry Cavill, hands down. As Charlotte would say, 'Every red-blooded woman surely imagined being turned over his knee for a...stern talking to.'
Her words, not mine! *winks

For Jean Pierre, Lucas Bravo from 'Emily in Paris' would be délicieux. That accent! That roguish charm! Gaspard Ulliel would be a close second - both embody that irresistible French Adonis vibe.

2. Share a book you loved as a child that still influences your writing today. 

Isabel Allende's and her 'Involuntary trilogy' for 'La casa de los espíritus' captivated me with their intricate family sagas and unconventional romances. But the book that truly stole my heart was 'Blanca Olmedo' by Lucila Gamero de Medina. It was my first romantic tragedy, and oh my, did it leave a mark! It's the reason I fell head over heels for the genre. Gamero de Medina, a brilliant Honduran author and compatriot, became my first literary hero.  

3. Describe a scene from your book that was particularly fun or satisfying to write. What made it enjoyable? 

Oh my gosh, where do I even start? Charlotte's crazy pursuit ideas had me in stitches while writing! Picture this: puppies, doves, cherubs, impromptu concerts, and an office redecorated with post-its all written by children. The pièce de résistance? A sash with a slogan proclaiming
'💘Maxi Poo + Charlotte💝'. I was cackling like a madwoman, imagining Max's face as Charlotte went to ridiculous lengths to make him regret his 'pursue me' challenge. It was pure, unadulterated fun to write!  

4. What's the most interesting piece of trivia you've discovered while researching for one of your books. 

While researching the fashion industry for another project (Queen of Steel), I stumbled upon some jaw-dropping facts. Did you know a single haute couture gown can cost as much as a small house? I nearly fainted when I realized some exclusive handbags cost more than my car! It's a whole different world out there, darling, where a pair of shoes could pay my rent for half a year!

5. If you could rewrite the ending of any book (including your own), which one would it be and how would you change it? 

Without a doubt, I'd rewrite the ending of 'Blanca Olmedo'. Just thinking about it makes my heart ache! I'd give Blanca and Gustavo the happy ending they deserve. Imagine them overcoming all odds, outsmarting his conniving family and that dastardly priest, and finally getting to live their love story. Every time I read it, I end up a blubbering mess. They deserve better, darn it!

6. What's the most surprising thing a reader has ever said to you about your books? 

A reader once told me something that left me speechless. They said my book had been their lifeline during a hellish day at college. In their darkest moment, my story gave them a much-needed escape, making them laugh so hard they momentarily forgot their troubles. Knowing my words had such an impact... well, it reminded me why I pour my heart into every page I write.

7. If you could magically gain one of your character's abilities or skills, which one would it be and how would you use it? 

Oh, to have Max's culinary wizardry! My cooking skills are... let's just say I can burn water and turn simple recipes into complex chemical experiments. Having Max's talent would mean I could create mouthwatering dishes instead of potential biohazards. My kitchen would finally be a place of delicious magic rather than culinary chaos!

8.  How do you typically approach character development, and do any of your characters reflect aspects of your own personality? 

My characters start as whispers in my dreams or crazy ideas that won't leave me alone. They set up camp in my head, rent-free I might add, and evolve as I write. Often, they'll steal traits from people I know - including yours truly. Charlotte's sharp wit? Guilty as charged. Max's romantic gestures? Well, a girl can dream, right? It's like they come alive, demanding I tell their stories just so.  

9. What can readers expect from you next? Are there any upcoming projects or ideas you're excited to share? 

Ooh, I'm bursting to tell you! I'm concocting the third installment of the Romancing Series. The ideas have been simmering, and I've finally pinned down a central scene that gets me toppled over with laughter. I've got the first few drafts of an outline, and let me tell you, it's going to be a wild ride! I can't wait for you all to see what's in store!  

10. Any tips for aspiring writers? 

Brace yourselves, because this might sound a tad bonkers: let your characters run amok in your head! Mine have full-blown conversations with each other (and me) at the most random times. Music and reading get my creative juices flowing, so I always keep a notebook handy - you never know when inspiration will strike! Don't be afraid of making mistakes; they're not just part of the process, they're stepping stones to greatness. And for the love of all that's holy, write what sets your soul on fire. For me, it's witty, quirky romance. When you're passionate about your writing, readers can't help but fall in love too!

11. Is there anything you'd like to say to your fans/readers?

Oh, my beloved readers! You wonderful, amazing souls! Your support and enthusiasm mean the world to me. I absolutely adore connecting with everyone specially in the comments - it's like a virtual coffee date with friends! The love you wonderful people show for my stories fuels my inspiration. Sometimes, your feedback spark ideas that end up in my books - so in a way, we're co-creating this journey together! I can't wait to share more adventures with you all. Please know that to me you're not just readers; you're the heartbeat of my writing world!

And an exclusive Chibi drawing to add to it wink-wink.

Thank you DramaticQu33n, for sharing insights into your captivating novels 'Romancing my Boss' and 'Queen of Steel : Throne of Lies'. Your ability to blend drama with wit and create compelling romances shines through in your storytelling and thank you for this awesome Chibi drawing!

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Till next time then!