Author Michelle M. Pillow stopped by the blog to share information about her latest release, Merely Mortal.

Writing Merely Mortal

Michelle M. Pillow

Hello My Lovely Readers!

I’m romance fiction author Michelle M. Pillow, and I am excited to share with you my latest urban fantasy book, Merely Mortal. It is the start of a brand new, first person POV series. As a fellow book lover of all things fantasy and romance, I know how fun it is to lose yourself in a story where the supernatural blends seamlessly with our reality. When writing Merely Mortal, I wanted to create a story that entertains but also connects with readers. This book is an urban fantasy with strong romantic elements including the tropes of forbidden love, protective lovers, forced proximity, and a strong female protagonist.

Peek into Tamara’s World

Tamara, the 28-year-old protagonist, is a character I believe many readers can connect with. She’s a mortal woman born into a powerful supernatural family. From the day she is born, she’s reined she has an expiration date and that she isn’t special like the rest of them. Her journey is one of self-discovery, courage, and finding where she truly belongs. I send Tamara on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, as she contends with her human vulnerabilities while dealing with the intricate dynamics of her supernatural heritage.

Themes That Speak to Us

Merely Mortal explores themes that are universally relatable. Who among us hasn’t felt like they don’t quite fit in or struggle to find their place in the world? Tamara’s story is about embracing those fears and finding inner strength. The supernatural chaos she faces serves as a backdrop to explore the complexities of human emotions—love, loyalty, fear, and hope. It’s these layers that make urban fantasy and paranormal romance so fun to read, don’t you think?

The Writing Process: From Concept to Page

Writing the new Merely Mortal series has taken countless late-night brainstorming sessions, gallons of coffee, and a lot of fighting. Let’s just say Tamara hasn’t always been a fan of what I do to her. I spent a lot of time planning this new series, wanting it to be perfect for my readers. Creating a world where the supernatural feels real requires meticulous planning when it comes to world-building and character development. I want readers to step into Tamara’s shoes, feel her losses, and celebrate her wins. Every plot twist and emotional moment was crafted with the intention of keeping you on the edge of your seat.

The Appeal of Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance

The renewed interest in urban romantasy and paranormal romance is something I’m thrilled to witness. These genres offer an escape from reality while also reflecting our deepest desires and fears. For me, stories have always been about exploring the unknown and finding magic in the mundane, and I’m so grateful to share this passion with you all.

Get in on the Adventure!

Thank you for joining me. I hope Merely Mortal tickles your imagination as much as it did mine. I’m also excited to announce that book two, Mostly Shattered is set to release October 2024.

A gripping new first-person POV urban fantasy romance series by NY Times and USA Today bestselling author, Michelle M. Pillow.

All I want is a simple, normal life.

Unfortunately, normalcy is a luxury I can't afford as a lowly human born into a powerful supernatural family embroiled in magic. They've always been quick to remind me that I have an expiration date. Imagine everyone's surprise when it’s me standing above their graves, not the other way around.

The fire that took their lives wasn't my fault, yet everyone is blaming me, especially the vampires. Now I have a target on my back and a bounty on my head. Without the protection of my family, I’m caught up in a tangled web of supernatural dynasties and arcane power struggles.

So when a handsome stranger and his young daughter take pity on me and offer me a ride, I don’t say no. It’s a mistake. One I hope doesn’t cost us all our lives.

Sometimes, being merely mortal really sucks.

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Prepare for an exhilarating journey of magic, power struggles, and forbidden love like never before! Inspired by the author’s short novella, Merely Mortal. (Inspired by, but completely different!) This book ends on a cliffhanger, but don’t fret, look for book Mostly Shattered. Perfect for fans of Carrie Vaughn, Faith Hunter, Jennifer Estep, Lindsay Buroker, Ilona Andrews, and K.F. Breene.