Welcome to our New Faces column, where we are pleased to introduce some of the debut authors you'll find on your romance bookshelves. THis time we're visiting with Laura Wright, whose first release is Cinderella and the Playboy, from Silhouette Desire.

Laura, welcome to TRR! Tell us about yourself.

I'm originally from Minnesota. Born and bred, baby! But I live in Los Angeles now with my hubby and 3 very spoiled dogs.

Are you coming to romance writing from another job?

Actually, I'd never written a word until 4 years ago. I was an actress and singer and a competitive ballroom and Latin dancer. I taught ballroom and Latin dancing for ten years - "Tango, anyone?"

So what led you to write romance? Are you a longtime romance reader?

Biiiigggg time reader. And I was/am a crazy romantic. I just don't like reality…sad, but true…lol. So, when I started writing romantic fiction, I was hooked…

Tell us about your road to publication.

Honestly, I wrote every day, all day for 3 years. I had lots of rejections on my first book - it's what I expected so I didn't freak or anything. I kept at it and kept at it until I sold. And then after I sold. But I have to say, my teacher and mentor, IM author, Barbara Ankrum helped me tremendously as well as the members of my critique group. They weren't afraid to tell me when something sucked….and hey, I needed to hear the truth.

What kind of research was involved for your first book?

My first book was an ode to all the historical romances I loved - lol - so not much.

Who are your influences as a writer?

Stephen King - he's a master and never gives up. Debbie Macomber is the same way…brilliant. I love Jude Deveraux and Judith McNaught, always have, always will. I really admire the writing styles of Susan Elizabeth Phillips, Linda Howard and Desire author, Barbara McCauley.

What does your family think of having a romance author in their midst?

They are incredibly proud, especially my husband: when I got my first cover he showed it all over the office.

Tell us about plans for future books.

I have 2 more Silhouette Desires coming out this year, HEARTS ARE WILD in October 2002, and the first in my Fiery Tales Series, BABY AND THE BEAST in December 2002. But up next year, there will be 2 more Fiery Tales: CHARMING THE PRINCE and SLEEPING WITH BEAUTY. Hope you'll check them out! Lemme know what you think.

How can readers get in touch with you?

Please come on by my website: http://www.laurawright.com and/or email me at laurawright@laurawright.com. Cheers, my friends!

Laura, thanks for joining us, and best of luck!

August 11, 2002