What happens when Mafia romance meats Hockey Romance?

Thank you so much to Kylie Kent for the interview. I love your Mafia romance and the addition of hockey is awesome.

Interview

What was your inspiration for Break Out?

The buzz about hockey romance inspired me to branch out into this trope; however, I had to put my twist on it by adding the mafia factor. 

What drew you to writing romance?

Fairy tales. We’re never too old to believe in a happily ever after.

How did you choose which character to focus the story? 

The story focuses on two MCs and is written in dual POV so you get the inside thoughts, feelings, and everything between—from both the female and male perspectives. Aliyah, the FMC, was heavily inspired by a reader who’s been following along my author journey. I was fortunate enough to meet her at a recent signing event. 

What was your process for writing Break Out?

Before I started writing for the day, I watch hockey highlights from games, with a strong focus on the fights. Because, well, it’s hockey and the players of the Vancouver Knights are about as rough and ruthless as they come. 

Was your process different from writing your mafia romances?

It’s different in that I didn’t get to research and learn about the sport until now. I’m from Australia, where the only ice you see is the cubes in your drink, so it was fun to watch and learn about ice hockey. I can’t wait to be able to visit Canada and go to a real-life NHL game.

What is your approach to world and character building?

I’m very much a pantser when it comes to writing. I write in chronological order from start to finish without going back until I write the end. The world building for Break Out and the Vancouver Knights just happened. I didn’t really need to think about it too much to be honest. I mean, it’s a hockey team owned and managed by a mafia family. What could possibly go wrong, right?

How would you describe Break Out in five words?

Ice in, ice out. Period.

Did you have a favourite moment to write?

I love the moment when Aliyah’s brother, Greyson, finds out about her new budding relationship with Liam. Greyson isn’t just Aliyah’s brother though; he’s also the Vancouver Knights’ enforcer and, well, let’s just say he’s not so keen to protect the player who’s banging his little sister. 

What was your favourite book growing up?

Beauty and the Beast. Honestly, it probably still is. It’s the ultimate dark romance with all the tropes. Forced captivity, grumpy-sunshine, billionaire, a hero who will die for her, etc. What’s not to love about it?

Do you have a favourite genre to read?

I love anything romance, but my fav tropes would have to be billionaire, mafia, and college. Give me a good plot and hot characters and I’ll be stuck in that world until the very last page—even after, I’ll be thinking about those characters and what they could possibly be up to for weeks, months, years to come.