Melissa Ferguson has a knack for crafting love stories that feel real, relatable, and enchanting. In her latest novel, she takes readers on a journey into the heart of the publishing world, blending romance with the complexities of ghostwriting and storytelling.
We had the privilege of talking with the bestselling romance author to dive into her creative process, explore how she brings her characters’ chemistry to life, and uncover the personal touches she weaves into her books. From her favorite tropes to her unique approach to balancing plotlines, this exclusive interview offers an intimate look at the magic behind Melissa Ferguson’s romance novels.
I love the storyline in the novel! The way that you pulled back the cover on publishing and the world of ghostwriting was fascinating. What made you want to tackle that specific aspect of the publishing industry?
I’ve wanted to write about this aspect of publishing ever since I stepped one wobbly foot in front of the other at my first writer’s conference pitch session. I was such a ball of nerves (like every other author going into that first 15-minute pitch appointment as well) that I came away thinking about how humorous it would be to write about this moment. Fast forward ten years later and here I am with a first scene jumping right into that moment!
How do you go about balancing the romantic storyline in your books with the other elements of the plot?
I try to make sure I have progression and inclusion of both humor and romance (and usually the main character’s internal motivation for something) in every chapter. Keeping a log going, even mentally, of how each part is included helps me make sure it doesn’t get too serious or forgets the romance aspect, etc.
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How do you create realistic chemistry between your love interests? Bryony and Jack have an incredible friends-to-lovers arc in the novel.
I appreciate that! Also, I’m not entirely sure I have an answer to that. I loved Two Weeks Notice and the fun, heartfelt banter between the two characters and tried to make sure Bryony and Jack had the same vibes.
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Subscribe to our weekly newsletterDo you regularly incorporate personal experiences into your novels? How do you go about doing so?
Yes, I do. I don’t mean to. It’s not on purpose, but the fact is that it’s easiest to write about what I know.
Also what I know a lot about in life tends to be because I want to know about it, and if I want to know about it, I’m passionate about it, and if I write about what I’m passionate about that’s what comes up on the page.
So, when I discover a new favorite way to cook something, that recipe tends to come up in my books. When I’m raising a Bernese Mountain Dog (like in How to Plot a Payback) and chickens, those animals drop into my books. When I’m living this wild and fun life as a writer, that tends to come out in a book.
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What are your favourite tropes to write, and are they different from your favourite tropes to read?
I love a good enemies-to-lovers book simply because they have so far to go to get to the point of love. But The Perfect Rom-Com had a little dance this time with the friends-to-lovers trope, and that I believe was my first time. I loved it.
I loved how the characters had somehow become each other’s person without realizing just how deeply in love they were. And yes, I very much enjoy reading these types of books as well. I don’t pick books by tropes, though. I pick books typically if I love the author. And if I love the author, I’ll read anything they give me because it’s more about the author’s general disposition in books, and takeaway moments, and wit that I love the most.
Melissa Ferguson’s passion for storytelling and her ability to create authentic, heartfelt romances shine through in every book she writes. Whether it’s crafting unforgettable character chemistry or pulling back the curtain on the publishing world, her stories captivate readers with their depth and charm. We can’t wait to see what she brings to life next – and we know her fans will feel the same.
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We would like to thank Melissa again for taking the time to talk to us about her latest novel and her writing. The Perfect Rom-Com is now available anywhere you buy your books. Make sure to get your copy!
