Interview with Cat Lavoie & Giveaway!

If you missed my review of Cat Lavoie's debut novel yesterday, I'll summarize: I loved it! It was unexpected and quirky yet it managed to be comforting and familiar at the same time. Today Cat Lavoie has graciously stopped by to answer a few of my questions and one lucky winner will win an eBook copy of Breaking the Rules! First, join me as I ask Cat a few questions:

The Book Chick: This is your debut novel- what advice can you share with aspiring authors about releasing your first book?

Cat Lavoie: The best advice I can share is: believe in your work, learn all you can about the publishing industry by following writer/agent blogs, connect with other aspiring authors and—most importantly—keep writing.

TBC: What made you decide to go with a small publishing house versus a larger one?

CL: I queried Breaking the Rules to agents and publishers for close to two years. Even though there was a bit of interest, most agents who liked my book ultimately passed because they thought a chick lit novel would be hard to sell to publishers. I decided to self-publish it and—in the process—met Samantha March who told me about Marching Ink, the indie press she'd started the year before. When she offered to publish my novel through her company, I didn't hesitate. I knew I wanted to work with her because of her enthusiasm for my novel and her overall awesomeness. I feel very lucky that our paths crossed.

TBC: What did you do on your publication day?


CL: I slept in. I had trouble sleeping for a few days before my publication day so it felt great to wake up somewhat rested on the Big Day. (Although I was still a ball of nerves.) The rest of the day was spent with family and friends. My best friend made pink book cupcakes to celebrate and I spent a lot of time staring at the Amazon listing for my book.

TBC: In your book our main character Roxy Rule is a personal assistant but loves cooking more than anything. Do you have a favourite cooking show?

CL: My TV is almost always tuned to the Food Network and I'll watch practically anything they air—but I particularly love Jamie Oliver, Nigella Lawson and Montreal chef Chuck Hughes. I'd gladly watch any of them boil water—I'm sure they could make it entertaining!

TBC: What books have you been recommending to everyone lately?

CL: On the Island by Tracey Garvis-Graves, In Need of Therapy by Tracie Banister and Finding Lucas by Samantha Stroh Bailey are some of the great books I've read—and recommended—this summer.

TBC: Finally (and most importantly!) you're craving a yummy snack. What do you reach for? 

CL: Sadly, it's not carrot sticks or anything remotely healthy. One of my many weaknesses is Lays Salt & Vinegar potato chips. Oh, and anything smothered in cheese.

Thank-you so much to Cat for stopping by! Now, for the giveaway: one lucky winner will win an eCopy of Breaking the Rules. The winner will be able to choose if they prefer an ePub or a mobi file! This contest is open to anyone, anywhere who would like to win an eCopy. Please enter below and good luck!



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