Author Briana Cole, known as the “lit drama queen” loves the storytelling of unusual relationships. She has been writing since the age of six and is now the author of the Heartbreaker book series, as well as her newest book Wives We Play. Take a look below to get to know this wonderful creative a little bit more.Â
Q: What’s your SwagHer? What makes Briana, Briana?
A: My SwagHer is definitely my ambition. I’m the kind of woman that was recognized as ‘Most Likely to Succeed’ because I am known for dreaming big and living even bigger. For example, I started my first business, a greeting card company, when I was 16. When I was 18, I started my university’s first step team which is still thriving today. When I set my mind to do something, I am not satisfied until it is accomplished.
I once read a quote by Mae West that continues to inspire me to this day. It said, “You only live once and if you do it right, once is enough.†This is why I push myself towards my goals, setting out to make a way when there is no way, and living my best life by going after everything my heart desires. Not just for me, but for my kids who are following my example, for the young brown-skinned girls who are needing role models, and the women who are getting discouraged because they have to work twice as hard to get to where they want. There is no plan B because failing is not an option for me.
Q: Why do you love the storytelling of unusual relationships and unique plots?
A: I love taboo. Not many people are bold enough to explore certain topics, perhaps for fear of judgment or audience reception. Me, I dive in it headfirst because I pride myself on bringing something different to my stories. Not only is it a way for me to grow and exercise my creativity, but it also allows readers to be entertained and even a little educated through my work.
Q: When did your Heartbreaker Book Series come out? Can you tell us a little bit about it?
A: Heartbreaker was my first published book released in March 2015. It is about a woman who is paid to bait men; In other words, tempt them to see if they will cheat with her. Her business is very successful because she has managed to play on women’s curiosity. Her tagline is “You can hook any man, you just need the right bait.†And the fact that she is the right bait puts her in a lot of danger.Â
Q: Tell us a little about the Unconditional Book Series? How many parts will the series have following The Wives We Play?
A: The Unconditional Book Series centers around the scandal and deception that takes place in a polyamorous relationship. The series begins with The Wives We Play when a woman is first invited into the relationship. She has to deal with the complexities of being with a man and his other women while hiding that lifestyle from her family since it is so unconventional. Soon, she learns there is actually a “purpose†for her in this arrangement and it is far more devious than she could have imagined.
Following The Wives We Play, there are two additional books in the series. The second book, The Vows We Break, will be released in July 2019.
Q: With the launch party for the Unconditional Book Series on January 26th, what can event goers look forward to on that day?
A: I am excited about the Unconditional Book Series Launch Party because we have so much in store for attendees! I wanted this event to be an experience so we will have vendors, music, food including alcohol-infused desserts, wine, raffles/giveaways, PLUS live entertainment. I have booked a comedian, singers and musicians, and a spoken word artist. In addition to this, I will be revealing some exclusive announcements and upcoming projects about the series, answering questions, signing books, and taking pictures on the red carpet. I wanted this event to be, not just about my books, but an opportunity to showcase other creatives and entrepreneurs in the area, network, and celebrate together.
Q: Can you tell us a little about any of your upcoming events like the Superbowl Classic Author Meet and Greet or the All-Star Winning Weekend Author Meet and Greet with Books and Brunch?
A: My goal for these events is for me to mix and mingle with the community. I will have books on-hand to sign, but this also allows me to increase my exposure, network, and chat with readers. I want people to know I am accessible and to associate a face with the brand. My Author Meet and Greets are about more than selling books. I want to foster relationships so people connect and support Briana Cole; not just the author, but Briana Cole the public speaker, the actress, the brand, the person.
Q: Where do you see yourself and your brand in 5 years?
A: I call myself “The Literary Drama Queen†and with good reason. I love writing as well as acting. In 5 years, I see myself merging my passion for both across multiple media platforms. I will have my books, but I also want to write for film and theater. Dominating shelves, screens, and stages are my end goals. I also see myself pursuing more public speaking opportunities, traveling as a keynote speaker, and hopefully inspiring others by sharing my journey.
Q: What’s your greatest accomplishment to date?
A: To date, my greatest literary accomplishment is seeing my books on the shelves at Walmart and Barnes and Noble. The feeling is indescribable because I remember when I used to dream of this very thing. And now, seeing it has come to fruition, that accomplishment is priceless.
For more info on Briana Cole, check out https://www.brianacole.com.Â








