A great novel is an escape into another world. On April 11, local authors will be hosting Romancing San Diego 2.0, a panel and book signing featuring ten of San Diego’s esteemed romance novelists as well as actress, producer, director and writer Deborah Pratt – best known for her involvement in the award-winning series Quantum Leap, Airwolf, and Magnum, P.I.
“All the books feature a love story but not necessarily romance,” Sarka-Jonae Miller said, author of the “Between Boyfriends” trilogy and co-organizer of the event.
In other words, there will be a little something for everyone this Saturday at the Grossmont Center Barnes & Noble at 4 p.m.
The “Between Boyfriends” trilogy follows protagonist Jan Weston, a fictional San Diego State student struggling to find her place in the world. Though Miller attended Syracuse University after growing up in San Diego, she felt SDSU was most similar to her alma mater upon her return to Southern California. Therefore she felt it was the perfect setting for her series.
Miller credits her undergraduate experience to be a huge part of the inspiration for her novels. She encourages students to get a full, well-rounded experience while at college – meaning yes, study hard but don’t forget to have social interactions outside of the library. Interpersonal relationships provide life skills and lessons that can’t be taught in the classroom, and those experiences are an equally important aspect of college.
As for students interested in the publishing and writing field, this is the best time in history to get involved.
“Write the book, let people see it, get criticism, and send it out to publishers,” Miller said. “If large companies turn you down, send your work to small publishers rather than getting discouraged.”
As someone who got her start through the thriving market of independent publishers, Miller is an advocate of believing in one’s work and pursing one’s goals – despite potential setbacks.
The “Between Boyfriends” novels are available in local bookstores across the country and all of Miller’s books are available in e-book format, including her newest “All for You” spin-off series that follows Jan Weston after college.
