Celebrate the month of love with some spicy reading

AS we celebrate the month of love in February, what better way to get in the mood for romance than reading a romance novel with a little spice? Durban author Pravina Maharaj has written some romance novels and shares about her experience as a romance writer.

Maharaj was born and raised in Newcastle, in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Her passion for writing began as a kid when she devoured Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys mysteries. She wrote her first story at 10 years old, and so began her lifelong love affair with writing.

Before tackling the formidable novel, she published numerous short stories in South African magazines. Her debut novel, Angel of Ice, a romantic suspense, was shortlisted for the 2017 Minara Aziz Hassim Literary Awards.

Pravina has an Honours Degree in English, is a senior radio producer at SABC and is an EFT Tapping practitioner. She credits EFT Tapping for boosting her creativity and beating writer’s block.

1. What inspired you to become a romance writer? Was it something that happened in your own life?

I’ve always been a romantic at heart and was always curious to know about how people met and fell in love. I read tons of romance novels in my teens and was hooked on the genre. It was a natural progression from being a reader of romance to attempting to write a romance novel. The process of writing always fascinated me, and I’ve always felt compelled to write through various stages of my life. I completed a novel writing course through SA Writers College, which set me on my writing journey.

2. How many romance novels have you written? How many have been published?

I’ve written two romantic short stories (novellas) which were published in romance anthologies: Giovanni’s Christmas Bride and Hungry Eyes. These have since been published as standalone novellas.

I published my debut full-length romantic suspense, Angel of Ice, in 2017. Another novella, Marry Me By Christmas, was published in 2018.

I’ve completed the draft of a romance novel, Arnav’s Bride, and hope to publish that soon. And I’ve begun work on a brand-new novel, The Love Charm.

3. Is it hard to write the romance genre?

It is a challenge. Capturing the emotions of falling in love and creating the tension and conflict in the plot isn’t always easy. Other challenging aspects are writing authentic dialogue, character development and motivation and, of course, chemistry that sizzles on the pages.

4. What is your favourite thing about writing romance?

It’s always incredible when two soul mates meet. That kind of passion and love is amazing. I love that no matter how many challenges a couple may face, true love always triumphs in the end. It’s always momentous when two people realise they’re in love and can’t live without each other. It’s the happily-ever-after that I find most satisfying when writing romance.

5. Which is your favourite book that you’ve written? Tell us a bit about it and what inspired it.

My debut novel, Angel of Ice, a fast-paced romantic suspense. Sexy PI Nick Holt arrives in a small town to investigate the shocking murder of a local businesswoman. Nick soon clashes with local florist Laura Fenwick, who insists on meddling in his investigation. Together, while on the trail of a cunning killer, passion explodes between them. I got the idea to write it while binge-watching episodes of Murder, She Wrote. I noticed there was a specific formula as to how the mysteries were constructed. So, I began writing a mystery short story, but that evolved into a full-length novel. I’m proud that Angel of Ice was shortlisted for the Minara Aziz Hassim Literary Award.

6. What is your goal/dream for the future concerning your writing?

To grow as a writer, learn as much as I can about the craft of writing and to keep on publishing. Though I write contemporary romance, I read more historical romances. I would love to attempt a historical romance soon. Apart from the many romance novels that I want to write, I also have an idea for a cosy mystery series with elements of romance.

7. Where can you or your books be found?

My books are available on Amazon Kindle at: https://rb.gy/7kvc27

Follow me on my social media pages for book updates and writers tips for aspiring authors: Facebook @PravinaMaharajAuthor, Instagram @pravinamaharajauthor and TikTok Pravina_Maharaj

For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.