Author Spotlight: Dakota Davies
February 11, 2025 • News
CJC: How did you get started as an author and what made you want to pursue that field?
DD: I started writing stories for my parents’ dinner party guests when I was about 8 years old. I loved to read and would often bring my paperbacks with me to family gatherings and other events, so I think I was primed to be a writer from a very early age. I thought I was going to be a scientist, which is its own kind of storytelling, but I couldn’t stay away from fiction and especially romance.
CJC: What do you find to be the most rewarding and challenging part of being an author and what hurdles have you overcome while striving towards your goals?
DD: I love being a creator and an involved parent to my two teenagers, but balancing sometimes is a delicate balance! The most rewarding part of being a romance author is when readers rave about a particular book, character, or scene. It’s like author crack and keeps me going.
The most important way I’ve overcome hurdles is by cultivating a “I can do this” mindset. It’s very easy to get discouraged in this business. Like when readers don’t love every book the way you hope they will… and marketing means you’re putting yourself out there with big authors and their readers. It can feel like swimming with sharks. Keeping positive with an abundance mindset has helped me more than anything else.
CJC: Which novel has been your favorite to write and why?
DD: You CANNOT ask me this. Just no. It’s like picking a favorite child. Within me, I have a whole new heart for every book I write. Each one is different, hits different, with its own journey through my soul. I can’t possibly choose one of those journeys over the others. I’ve learned and grown with each one.
However…I will say that Falling For My Fling was the first time I felt big magic while writing. That story struck a harmonious chord within my heart.
CJC: For first time readers of your work, which book would you recommend?
DD: I’m releasing a new series right now called Love Me Dangerous. It’s set in a small town called Finn River and has suspense, found family, and western vibes as well as the complex characters and emotional tension I’m known for. Book 1 is called Love Me Dangerous and features Zach & Sofie.
CJC: If one of your books were made into a movie, which would you select and who would you like to star in it?
DD: The Entwined Hearts trilogy! It’s the most cinematic and visually gorgeous book I’ve written. It was kind of before it’s time because it features two professional climbers, something you don’t see very often in romance. I would probably pick Sasha DiGiulian (she’s a professional rock climber, not a celeb) for Anya, and Glen Powell for Colby.
CJC: For those looking to become an author, what advice would you give them?
DD: Start.
No really, so many people wait to start writing. They think they need to learn more, take classes, redesign their life to fit in writing, etc. Everything you need to get going is already inside you. Let ‘er rip!
CJC: If you could co-write a book with any author, who would it be and why?
DD: I would never torture another writer with my process. I’m a solo beast and it’s better for all involved if it stays that way.
CJC: Favorite motto?
DD: Lead with the heart.
CJC: What do you do to overcome writer’s block?
DD: Go for a long mountain bike ride.
CJC: In one word, how would you describe your writing style?
DD: Focused.
CJC: Which do you find harder to do… writing the blurb for your story or selecting the cover?
DD: Blurbs OMG.
CJC: Do you have authors who inspire you? And if so, who and why?
DD: Yes, I take a lot of inspo from other authors. Not just in what they write, but how they interact with readers and the world. Authors like Catherine Cowles, Devney Perry, Claire Kingsley, Melanie Harlow. They are professionals in every way, and also extremely talented while also keeping true to their unique storytelling. They’re also very giving and supportive.
CJC: What is your writing process like?
DD: I start with a core idea of who the characters are and why they can’t be together. Then I design the first few chapters in detail, so I can picture them. Then I just write. My goal is 10,000 words per week which works for me because a daily word count is too stressful, and my life is busy with kids and other passions. This allows me some flexibility.
CJC: What new projects are you currently working on and what are your goals for the remainder of the year?
DD: I’m writing more books in the Love Me Dangerous series! Book 4 is coming March 27th, and Book 5 & 6 are rolling out in summer and early fall. After that, I might publish a surprise book by the end of the year, not sure yet. I will also be planning my next series, which will be a lot like my current one: small mountain town, suspense, and found family.
CJC: Any final thoughts you would like to share with the CJC Photography readers?
DD: I’m thrilled that Peter & Lauren landed on the cover of Love Me Fearless! It was so fun being a part of the shoot. It made me feel like a movie director 😊 I’m so grateful for the love the book community has shown me. It’s the best corner of the internet!
CJC: “Love Me Fearless” is now available!
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