From Inspiration to Bestseller
Wendy Vella discusses her passion for historical romance, her creative process, and the inspiration behind her beloved series, offering readers a glimpse into her world of love, humor, and intrigue.
Wendy Vella is a literary gem whose stories have captured the hearts of readers worldwide. With her signature blend of humor, sensuality, and intrigue, she has carved a niche in the world of historical romance, crafting tales that are as enchanting as they are unforgettable. From the beloved Sinclair & Raven series to the captivating Langley Sisters and Deville Brothers, Wendy’s works are a testament to her talent for creating richly layered characters and immersive worlds. Her ability to weave unconventional heroines, dashing heroes, and compelling narratives has earned her a devoted following and a well-deserved place among the best in the genre.
In this exclusive interview for Reader’s House Magazine, Wendy opens up about her journey as an author, her creative process, and the inspiration behind her timeless stories. She also shares insights into her writing rituals, her love for the Regency era, and the themes that make her novels resonate so deeply with readers. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her work, this conversation offers a delightful glimpse into the mind of a storyteller who continues to redefine the art of romance.
What inspired you to start writing historical romance novels, and how did you begin your journey as an author?
My love for historical romance began with my mother, who introduced me to These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer. The moment I opened that book, I was hooked. From then on, I devoured every historical romance I could find.
I didn’t start writing until I was twenty. My first novel, written while I was working in London, was terrible, and will forever stay tucked away in a shoebox under my bed. While the writing wasn’t great, it was the beginning of my journey.
It wasn’t until ten years later, when I joined Romance Writers of New Zealand, that I really started to take writing seriously. That decision paid off when I won a writing competition, and I went on to publish my first book in 2013. Since then, I’ve been consistently publishing and living my dream of writing stories that readers enjoy.
Your books often feature unconventional heroines and dashing heroes. How do you go about developing these characters, and do you have a favourite character among your works?
I’m an incurable romantic who believes in happily-ever-afters, so I write the kinds of characters I’d want to read about. My goal is always to make them relatable, even the villains. I like to give them flaws that feel authentic, so they come across as real people.
When I create a character, I always begin with their name, then work out what they’ll look like and what kind of personality they’ll have. I’m drawn to heroes who believe they’re unworthy of love because of their past—a good redemption arc is one of my favorite things to write. As for heroines, I like strong women who don’t need a man to complete them but end up finding love, anyway.
How do you choose the settings for your historical romances, and what kind of research do you conduct to ensure historical accuracy?
I mostly write in the Regency era, and after spending so much time immersed in it, I’ve gained a good knowledge of the period. If I come across something I’m unsure about while writing. I’ll jot down what I need to research in big letters and keep writing, and then go back to it later. Once I’ve finished for the day, I dive into the research. My collection of books and, of course, the internet are invaluable resources in helping me get the details just right.
Can you describe your writing process? Do you have any specific routines or rituals that help you stay productive and creative?
I’m not a plotter, though I’ve tried to be. Every time I attempt it, it just blocks me, so I’ve found my own way. I usually write about 30,000 words to get a feel for where the story is headed, then I go back and tighten it up. Once I’ve got the foundation solid, I can move forward and finish the book.
I can write just about anywhere as long as I have my AirPods in. I’ve been listening to the same playlist since I started writing, and as soon as I hear those familiar tunes, I’m in the zone.
I don’t have any specific rituals, but I do write two drafts before listening to the book read aloud. Hearing it spoken often helps me catch things that reading it on the page doesn’t. It’s a great way to fine-tune the details.
Here are four questions you could ask Wendy Vella about her book “Lady In Disguise” from the Langley Sisters series:
“Lady In Disguise” is part of the Langley Sisters series. What inspired the creation of this series, and how does this book fit into the overall narrative?
I created the Langley Sisters series inspired by my family’s deep connection to England and my love for the Regency era. Storytelling has always been a passion of mine, so it felt natural to bring these elements together in Lady in Disguise. This first book establishes the dynamic between the sisters, introduces their backstories, and paints a vivid picture of the society they navigate. It’s a foundation for the series, setting the stage for the adventures and challenges they will face.
The theme of disguise and hidden identities plays a significant role in this book. What drew you to explore this theme, and how do you think it enhances the romance and intrigue in the story?
In Lady in Disguise, the heroine is fiercely determined to protect her family’s reputation and shield the truth of their financial struggles. With few options available to her as a gently bred lady, she takes the drastic step of becoming a highwayman to secure their future. This decision adds a rich layer of complexity to her character, as she must navigate the perils of her double life while keeping her secret from the hero. The tension between them deepens as their paths inevitably cross, complicating their relationship and raising the stakes for both.
Can you share some insights into the main characters of “Lady In Disguise”? What makes their relationship unique and compelling for readers?
At the start of the story, both main characters are privileged members of society, but unforeseen circumstances alter the course of their lives. Separated by time and hardship, they reunite years later, each transformed into someone entirely different. For the hero, it’s a journey of redemption, while for the heroine, it’s one of resilience and courage as she confronts the challenges of her new reality. Their reunion forces them to navigate not only their past but the starkly different people they’ve become.
How do you balance historical accuracy with creative storytelling in “Lady In Disguise,” and what challenges did you face in bringing this story to life?
I take great care to ensure that events and characters from the time period are accurate, but I also recognize that writing about an era no one alive today has experienced allows for a certain degree of creative license. For me, the priority is always telling the story in a way that resonates, while also staying true to the historical details. I focus first on getting the heart of the story right, then work to ensure the historical accuracy supports and enhances that narrative.
