Romance author Lyr Gray just released Real Perfect this week, a fun and witty contemporary romance. Congrats, Lyr!

Tell us a little about yourself. Where do you live? What do you do when you’re not writing?

I moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma back in 2020 during the pandemic, and I’ve really fallen in love with the creative community here. When I’m not writing, I am also an actress in local stage productions. I also have three silly dogs, 11 axolotls and a pet lizard who bring a lot of joy to my life. I enjoy being active and getting out to walk around beautiful areas in Tulsa and Broken Arrow.

What inspired you to start writing fiction? How did you choose your specific genre(s)?

I have always had a passion for storytelling and reading since I was really young. When I was seven, my grandma bought me a clip-on light for my bed because I would always read before going to sleep. I used to type up stories on her manual typewriter and illustrate them myself. I write in both urban fantasy/paranormal romance and contemporary romance/romantic comedy. I’ve always loved spooky stories, ghosts, vampires, strong heroines and the paranormal genre, but I found myself being drawn toward writing romance because it is such a fun genre to play with characters and story. I also like to write humor into my stories, and the genre lends itself well to my voice.

Tell us about your most recently published book. What’s it about? Is it part of a series?

My debut novel is a Contemporary Romance with humor called Real Perfect. It is about a disgraced matchmaker who believes in forever-after competing on a reality TV dating show against her arch-nemesis—a cocky pick-up artist coach who literally wrote the book on one-night stands.

 

What has been the most challenging part of being an indie author? How have you tackled that challenge?

I think just making the decision to become an indie author rather than go a traditional route was the most challenging part for me and kept me frozen for several years. Now I’m navigating strategy, marketing, and finding partners like Two Birds for services. There are a lot of resources available to help, and community is important.

What has been the most fulfilling part of being an author?

The community and friends I’ve met and made along the way.

Tell us a bit about your process. What’s your routine?

I like to write every weekday first thing in the morning before I turn on any devices or face any distractions. I have a dedicated writing corner and desk that is separate from my day job workspace. I need that physical distinction for my creative process and flow. On the weekend though, you will find me in a coffee shop or a cozy spot in the library for a few hours.

What tips do you have—things you’ve learned—that you like to share with fellow authors?

Find organizations and groups that resonate with you. Write what is engaging and fun for you. Find joy in your process!

What was it like working with Two Birds?

Working with Two Birds has been fantastic. The communication has been smooth, the process streamlined and the feedback invaluable. I feel confident in the book I’m about to publish.

What is the most helpful tip you can offer to authors who, like you, want to find the right editor for their books?

I asked for referrals from local writers in different writing groups, and Two Birds was consistently recommended. I evaluated the website, reviews, and really liked the sample edit I got back. My most helpful tip is, find a service like Two Birds where you can have a team dividing your line edits and proofread. In my opinion you’ll find consistency, strong communication and have the right eyes at the right time on your manuscript.

Where can authors and readers connect with you, and find your books?

Real Perfect is on Amazon as of February 10th! You can also find me on Instagram and my soon-to-be-launched website, www.lyrgray.com.

Any final words of wisdom you’d like to share?

Two Birds offers consulting, and Michele is a certified book coach. I actually got started writing novels by working with a book coach and can’t recommend it enough for someone trying to find a path or needing to build a system for themselves to write a book. I also love many craft books, and Story Genius by Lisa Cron and Romancing the Beat by Gwen Hayes remain as two of my guiding stars for story development.