Although Amanda Clay writes “genre fiction,” she agreed that most writing falls into one or more genres; so, the term is probably somewhat redundant.
Asked about what she likes about writing romance suspense novels, Amanda cited putting her protagonists into difficult situations, creating villains, and human interaction.
Amanda explained that a successful romantic subplot – particularly in books that are not primarily in a romance genre – is one that feels natural, where the tension/chemistry has been developed from the start, and involves people who it makes sense would connect.
Amanda is a fan of a deep point of view (POV), i.e., getting into a character’s head, which she likes to show through visceral experience, e.g., what they’re hearing, smelling, physically feeling, etc.
Asked to name a favorite villain, Amanda chose Cersei Lannister from Game of Thrones, citing the character’s complexity. She added that she enjoys villains who operate in moral gray area.
Regarding the publishing industry, Amanda believes digital has changed the publishing world for better, opening up opportunities. Embracing indie publishing allowed her to find creative ways to reach new readers.
Amanda handles digital publication through own company, and she uses an agent for foreign and print publishing, taking advantage of the benefits of a hybrid approach.
Amanda is finishing the final full-length book in her long-running thriller series, Redemption; she is launching a historical romance series; and, she has a standalone mystery out later this year, too.

Podcast editing and episode notes by author and podcast producer and host Matthew Félix (matthewfelix.com).