We chat with author Rochelle B. Weinstein about What You Do To Me, which is a moving novel of two unfinished love stories and the music and lyrics that bring them together.
Hi, Rochelle! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?
Hey there! Thanks for having me! I’m a Miami-based author with seven books under my belt. The most recent, What You Do To Me, releases 10/17/23. I’m a bit of a nerd myself, an extroverted-introvert. Adventure takes me out of my comfort zone; I’m happiest with my family, my dogs, a good book, and nature. Boring. I know. At least my characters have more exciting lives than mine!
When did you first discover your love for writing and stories?
Oh gosh. I was YOUNG. Had to be in grade school. I’d steal my mom’s Danielle Steel books and read by flashlight late into the night. Then, of course, Judy Blume and Sidney Sheldon came along. I imagined writing stories like theirs, though I never had the confidence. Instead, I wrote in a journal with a reader of one: my brother Rob!
Quick lightning round! Tell us the first book you ever remember reading!
Forever By Judy Blume
Your latest novel, What You Do To Me, is out October 17th! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?
Music. Romance. Soulful. Evocative. Page-turner.
What can readers expect?
A fast-paced tale of music and lyrics, forbidden love, forgiveness, and a touch of mystery.
Where did the inspiration for What You Do To Me come from?
Hey There Delilah by the Plain White T’s. Curious about the story behind the song, I researched Tom and Delilah, and what a disappointment! I decided to reimagine the story, the players, the ending—all of it.
Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?
I miss these characters already! Cecilia was a dream to write because of her passion for music. I used to work in the music business so channeling that experience into her character was so much fun. I also loved writing the scenes between Sara and Eddie—the forbidden love aspect, all that build-up and romantic tension. I was like: KISS ALREADY!
This is your seventh published novel! What are some of the key lessons you have learned when it comes to writing and the publishing world?
This business is a roller coaster and not everything you read online represents what we go through on a daily business. I know of few other professions that are as soul-crushing or challenging. Ultimately, I tell aspiring writers this: have thick skin, manage expectations, READ READ READ, and trust the process. Most of the time, patience and cautious optimism provide a positive outcome and success.
What’s next for you?
I’m finishing up my eighth novel, working title, The Inn. It’s been described as Nine Perfect Strangers meets The Big Chill. I hope it lives up to those monumental expectations.
Lastly, do you have any book recommendations for our readers?
I just finished The Reading List by Sara Nisha Evans, and it is fantastic! The Stockwell Letters by Jackie Friedland. Lastly, add this one to your TBR: Guy’s Girl by Emma Noyes. This one releases 10/24.
