Kaya Quinsey Holt is one in a million...plus a book giveaway

We're pleased to have Kaya Quinsey Holt back at CLC today. She's here to celebrate the publication of her latest novel, The Marseille Millionaire. Since it's our 10-year anniversary, we asked her to write a letter to herself from 10 years ago. We enjoyed what she had to say. Kaya also has FIVE e-books to give away!



Kaya Quinsey Holt is the author of four romantic comedies. She holds her undergraduate and master’s degree in psychology. Her first novel, Paris Mends Broken Hearts, was released in April 2018. Since then, her books have sold in seven countries. They have been translated into multiple languages and been formatted into audiobooks. Kaya’s passion for culture, travel, and psychology intertwine for books that are romantic and full of surprises. When she’s not typing away, Kaya loves chatting with friends over a glass of wine, playing with her fluffy Pomeranian Shih Tzu puppy, spending time with her family, and indulging in one too many cups of coffee. Always planning her next trip and adventure, Kaya’s favorite places are usually near a beach. She lives in Toronto with her husband.

Visit Kaya online:
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Synopsis:
While selling a million dollar home in Marseille, will Elise Laird cash in at her chance at love?

From Ashfield, USA, to Marseille in the South of France – this is a romance not to be forgotten! The first in a new series following ambitious Elise Laird in her struggle to achieve more than she ever imagined for herself… all in the heart of the South of France!

Elise Laird has just sold the most expensive home in the history of Ashfield, USA, at $4.2 million dollars. The French multimillionaire whose home she sold is thrilled – so much so that he recommends her to a fellow French friend. And when Luc Dubonier steps off of his private jet with the intention of investing in some of Ashfield’s best properties, Elise is shocked to find that the successful tycoon is single.

At least, until she gets to know him. In a series of blunders, Elise learns that Luc may be tough in business, but couldn’t imagine anyone’s personal life being more of a mess. After she impresses him with her sales pitches, Luc asks her to do one more sale for him – his $88 million home in Marseille, France.

When Elise arrives in France, she learns that there is more to the house, and Luc, than meets the eye. If she sells the house, the commission check will be more than her lifetime salaries combined. But after learning why he is selling it, Elise finds herself conflicted, wanting to convince Luc to keep it. Will Elise choose between her bank account or her heart? And while selling million dollar homes, will Elise cash in her chance at love?

In honor of Chick Lit Central’s 10-year anniversary, I have written a letter to myself... myself 10 years ago.

Seventeen-year-old Kaya,

You’re not going to believe it. Ten years from now (to the day), your fourth romance book will be released. It’s called The Marseille Millionaire. Your romantic, Francophile heart should be dancing.

Yes, that’s right. Fourth.

Romance writer? Writing books? I know. It was a big surprise for me too.

Life is going to throw you some unexpected and wonderful twists. The trip you took to Paris last summer is going to come in handy. I’m glad you enjoyed all those croissants while you could. Your gluten-sensitivity will kick in later. That French heritage of yours is going to spark your imagination, offering the inspiration for your first book, Paris Mends Broken Hearts. Don’t worry. The writing process gets easier. I promise.

Another cup of coffee can do wonders. Fresh air really does clear the mind—especially if it is by the water. Sometimes, the right music is what stands in the way between writing another full page and staring at a blank one. You’ll become quite the The Beach Boys aficionado.

Your honeymoon will begin in Marseille—a port-city in the South of France. You’re going to love it. That city will leave an indelible mark on your heart. There are a lot of hills. Bring your walking shoes. I cannot stress this enough. Yes, the seafood is as good as you imagine. Yes, the Mediterranean looks like that in real life. Yes, it will pull at your heartstrings to leave. Don’t worry, you’ll be onto your next adventure soon enough.

In homage to the 10-year anniversary of Chick Lit Central, here are 10 pieces of advice to make the writing process a little smoother (bonus: these apply to all writers—pre-published and published):

1. Write as much as you can, as often as you can.

2. The world needs your voice. Not just your voice, but every voice.

3. Read like it’s going out of style.

4. There’s lots of rejection out there, but better things are waiting for you.

5. Patience is everything.

6. Re-writing is writing.

7. Even if it trembles, find your voice.

8. If you love it, someone else will too.

9. Pursuing your dreams isn’t always a linear process. Like waves, the ebbs and flows are natural.

10. Don’t be scared to dream as big as you can.

In closing, life is going to look very different in ten years. With a grateful heart, a determined mind, and an ignited spirit, you have nothing to fear.

Finally, a huge merci to all the readers, writers, and dreamers.

Love,
Twenty-seven-year-old Kaya

Thanks to Kaya for her insightful post and for sharing her book with our readers.

How to win: Use Rafflecopter to enter the giveaway. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. If you have trouble using Rafflecopter on our blog, enter the giveaway here. 

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Giveaway ends January 29th at midnight EST.