One Behind the Book

Meet DQ ( Romancing my Boss )

Interviewer : Amā Shavi

Meet DQ, DramaticQu33n author of  'Romancing my Boss' and 'Queen of Steel : Throne of Lies'. In 'Romancing My Boss,' Charlotte Bennett navigates comedic mishaps and unexpected sparks with her intimidating boss, Maximilian Pemberton.'Queen of Steel' follows Tahlia Steelman's transformation from a privileged heiress to facing dark family secrets and unexpected desires. DQ's storytelling blends drama with witty banter and electric chemistry, delivering captivating tales of love, redemption, and personal discovery.

Before we start, can you share a bit about yourself and how your journey as a writer began? 

I'm a reader turned writer, enchanted by stories since childhood. My passion for romance, though, comes from the telenovelas I adored growing up. One that truly defined my youth was 'Yo soy Betty, la fea' (Ugly Betty). As a self-proclaimed smart ugly duckling, Betty's journey resonated deeply with me, blending romance and comedy in a way that still inspires my writing today.  

1. Imagine your book is being made into a movie. Who would you cast as the lead roles, and why? 

Oh, casting my characters is like a delicious daydream! For Charlotte, I'd love Mila Kunis - her sassy humor is perfect for Charlotte's colorful personality. Ana de Armas is my backup; they'd both nail the physical description and attitude.

Now, for Max... *fans self dramatically Henry Cavill, hands down. As Charlotte would say, 'Every red-blooded woman surely imagined being turned over his knee for a...stern talking to.'
Her words, not mine! *winks

For Jean Pierre, Lucas Bravo from 'Emily in Paris' would be délicieux. That accent! That roguish charm! Gaspard Ulliel would be a close second - both embody that irresistible French Adonis vibe.

2. Share a book you loved as a child that still influences your writing today. 

Isabel Allende's and her 'Involuntary trilogy' for 'La casa de los espíritus' captivated me with their intricate family sagas and unconventional romances. But the book that truly stole my heart was 'Blanca Olmedo' by Lucila Gamero de Medina. It was my first romantic tragedy, and oh my, did it leave a mark! It's the reason I fell head over heels for the genre. Gamero de Medina, a brilliant Honduran author and compatriot, became my first literary hero.  

3. Describe a scene from your book that was particularly fun or satisfying to write. What made it enjoyable? 

Oh my gosh, where do I even start? Charlotte's crazy pursuit ideas had me in stitches while writing! Picture this: puppies, doves, cherubs, impromptu concerts, and an office redecorated with post-its all written by children. The pièce de résistance? A sash with a slogan proclaiming
'💘Maxi Poo + Charlotte💝'. I was cackling like a madwoman, imagining Max's face as Charlotte went to ridiculous lengths to make him regret his 'pursue me' challenge. It was pure, unadulterated fun to write!  

4. What's the most interesting piece of trivia you've discovered while researching for one of your books. 

While researching the fashion industry for another project (Queen of Steel), I stumbled upon some jaw-dropping facts. Did you know a single haute couture gown can cost as much as a small house? I nearly fainted when I realized some exclusive handbags cost more than my car! It's a whole different world out there, darling, where a pair of shoes could pay my rent for half a year!