Briana Cole has coined the term ‘spiceual’ to describe her style of writing; a mix of spicy and sensual romance that stimulates the reader mentally, physically, and emotionally. Tired of reading the same type of books in the urban industry, she prides herself on bringing unique plots and a distinct voice to the bookshelves. Briana is an Atlanta native and proud mother of two. She graduated from Georgia Southern University in 2009. Her motto and ultimate drive towards success is a famous quote from Mae West: “You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.”

For more information, please visit Briana’s site at www.brianacole.com.

She also maintains an active presence on various social media platforms:

Facebook: facebook.com/bcoleauthor  

Instagram and Twitter: @bcoleauthor

1) When did you know that writing is what you were called to do? What is it about being a writer that you love the most?

I have always been a creative person and I have been writing since I was about six. From that point, I knew my purpose was to tell stories. Being a writer allows me to have so much fun. I can really exercise my creativity, spin crazy plots, and make memorable characters. There is no limit and I love that freedom.

2) Can you tell us a little about your book(s) and where our readers can find out more about them and you?

The Marriage Pass is about a couple who celebrates their one-year anniversary by giving each other a free pass to indulge in their deepest desires. For Dr. Dorian Graham, the free pass is a chance to spend the night with his wife’s sister, but decision leads to a domino effect of dire consequences. This is the first in a new series to be released February 23rd.

My Unconditional series is about a woman who has been invited into a poly relationship with a man and his two wives. This is a three-book series on sale now.

You can find out more about me and all of my work on my website at brianacole.com as well as across social media: FB- Briana Cole, IG/Twitter-@bcoleauthor

3) What projects are you currently working on?

I am making a movie! In addition to writing books, I am also a screenwriter and I wrote my very first solo feature film a few months ago. We are now currently in production with this movie and I am executive producing and starring in it as well. In addition to this, I am starring in a reality TV series called Entrepreneurs of Atlanta and I just finished the sequel for The Marriage Pass. I can’t reveal the name just yet, but the book is slated for release around December of this year.

4) What has been your most significant achievement as a writer thus far? Where do you see yourself within your career in the next five years?

Since being published, my most significant achievement was having a two-page spread in the May 2019 issue of Sophisticate’s Black Hair Magazine. In the next five years, I will be attending red carpet premieres of my book-to-film adaptations and traveling to conduct speaking engagements about my author journey. I will also act in a few Tyler Perry and Jordan Peele film projects.

5) How have you dealt with rejection within your writing career?

I have come to accept that is part of the industry and sometimes a ‘no’ may just mean ‘not right now’ or ‘not with you.’ I’m a firm believer that things happen for a reason so rejection just motivates me to grind harder.

6) Do you have a schedule for when you write?  Do you outline your novels?  How long does it generally take you to finish a novel?

I love to write late at night. Those are my prime creative hours. I try my best to write every day when I’m on deadline. But when I don’t have a book to write (for example, now I just finished one), I give myself a much-needed break and won’t write for weeks.

I do a very basic outline just so I can put to paper the scenes that need to happen for my story to work. Very, very skeletal. Then once I dive in the story, my characters start talking to me and they’ll begin to write their own narratives.

How long it takes me to write honestly depends on what all I have going on during that time. One time I was really busy and did a little more procrastinating than I’m proud of and it took me a whole year to finish my book. This last book I finished a few days ago took me about 2 ½ months.

7) Do you believe that there is ever a point in life where it’s too late for an aspiring writer to become successful in this industry?  Do you feel a late start would hinder their chances?

No and no. As long as you’re living and breathing, it’s not too late to become successful in this industry. I feel a late start can be used to a writer’s advantage since you have more knowledge and experiences to gleam for your stories.

8) What’s the first book you ever read that really touched you emotionally and moved you?  Who is your favorite author? What book are you currently reading?

The first book I ever read that moved me was probably Omar Tyree’s Flyy Girl. It was so relatable and so authentic that I connected with the main character and she became like my best friend. As far as my favorite author, I have a few. Kimberla Lawson Roby, my phenomenal Soror Victoria Christopher Murray, Nora Roberts, Terry McMillian… you know what, I better stop with those. I have a bunch of favorites! As far as my current read, I am finishing up Soror Murray’s new book, Wrath. Loving it!

9) So many writers say that they hate reading their own work? Do you ever just sit down and curl up with your own book?

Actually I don’t read my book after it has been published. I have lived and breathed my own characters for months, sometimes years. So, by the time the book hits the shelves, I’m pretty sick of them. I am an avid reader, so I enjoy devouring other people’s books, exploring new topics, meeting new characters, and delving into fresh stories. It’s like a breath of fresh air.

10) What are your thoughts about how the publishing industry is drastically changing? 

Even in the midst of change, there is always space for books (paperback, ebooks, or audio). People are in need some kind of outlet to take them away from the stresses of the world. I’m at the point where I just want to share my gift and as long as I’m following my passion, there is room for me in the industry. My word of advice? Just stay flexible and stay true to yourself.

11) I feel like writing is a remarkable tool to help people not only express themselves, but also to cope emotionally and mentally.  I know for me I write to be and feel more authentic. What unique quality is there about you, about your art, that you feel represents your authenticity?  How does writing help you to be more empowered in your purpose?

Writing allows me to get more in-touch with myself. Having dealt with mental health issues before, I use writing as a tool to challenge and explore my mind (and heart) on new and deeper levels. I insert little bits of myself in most of my characters and the writing process becomes a coping mechanism for me. I also feel my writing and my journey inspires others who may be dealing with those same tribulations.