NK Chats To… Abbey Hicks 

Hi Abbey, thank you so much for joining me and for inviting Novel Kicks onto your blog tour. Can you tell me a little about your latest book, Candlelight Dreams in Cosy Cove and what inspired it?

Candlelight Dreams in Cosy Cove is a heartwarming novella, book 1 in the Cosy Cove series, set in the enchanting seaside town of Cosy Cove and its charming residents. The story centres around Beth Williams, a lively and kind-hearted local who runs an artisan candle shop, ‘Harbour Lights,’ and Jacob Lawson, a charismatic and adventurous travel journalist visiting the town to write a feature for a popular travel magazine.

The inspiration for Cosy Cove came from the beautiful coastal towns and beaches near where I live on the south coast of England. I wanted to create a ‘perfect’ seaside retreat—somewhere I’d love to visit (or even live!)—so I took little details from my favourite places and wove them together to create this idyllic, fictional town. The result? A picturesque setting filled with golden sands, a cosy café, quaint shops, and a welcoming community that I hope readers will fall in love with as much as I have.

From first draft to final, how long does the process of writing a novel take you. Also, how do you approach the research and editing processes and how do you know when you’ve done enough?

Every book I write is different. Some stories flow effortlessly, and I can plan, outline and write a 25k novella in two to three weeks, while others take many, many months to complete. It really depends on the story, the characters, and how cooperative they decide to be!

When it comes to research, my stories are completely fictitious. However, I do love adding authentic details to bring the world to life—whether that’s researching traditional seaside festivals, learning about different crafts like candle making or floristry, or even checking what flowers bloom in which season, which is surprisingly easy to get wrong! Or maybe that should be unsurprisingly since I am absolutely hopeless at gardening!

Editing is where the real magic happens, but I’ll be honest—I NEVER truly feel like I’m done! I could tweak and adjust forever, but at some point, I have to step back and trust the story.

What’s your typical writing day like? Do you have any writing rituals?

Since I work part-time, I don’t generally write on those days, but when I do have a writing day, I start early—really early! I’m usually up by 5 a.m., when the house is quiet and the world is still waking up. Those first two hours of writing are my most productive, and I love getting lost in my story while everything is peaceful.

After that, it’s time to walk my mischievous but lovable labradoodle, Brody, which is the perfect way to clear my head and let ideas simmer in the background. Then it’s breakfast, and back to writing for another stretch. Afternoons are usually a lot less structured, with more writing, research, marketing, or, more often than not, scrolling on social media!

As for rituals, I don’t have anything fancy—but I absolutely cannot write without quiet and gallons of tea! A constant supply of tea is essential for keeping the words flowing!

Candlelight Dreams in Cosy Cove is told from the point of view of Beth and Jacob. What are the challenges when writing from dual point of views?

One of the biggest challenges of writing dual POV is ensuring that each character has a distinct voice and perspective, so they don’t blur into one. I also have to be mindful of pacing and balance, making sure both characters get enough page time and that their stories intertwine seamlessly without repeating the same scenes. But when done right, dual POV adds so much depth and emotion to a romance—it’s definitely worth the challenge!

If you were creating a playlist for this book, which songs would you pick?

Now this a difficult question for me because I don’t really listen to that much music, but I’ll have a go! Since Candlelight Dreams is feel-good romance with warmth and charm, I tried to pick songs that reflect love, hope, and new beginnings.

Here are a few that fit the book’s vibe:

Taylor Swift – “Enchanted” (for those magical, romantic moments)
Bruno Mars – “Just the Way You Are” (for the sweet, heartfelt connection)
Ed Sheeran – “Perfect” (because every romance needs an Ed Sheeran song!)

What’s your favourite word and why? What’s a word you dislike and why?

I don’t have a single favourite word, but I love discovering new ones—especially those that perfectly capture a feeling or moment. There’s something magical about finding the right word at the right time! As for a word I dislike… moist. I know it’s a common one, but something about it just gives me the ick!

Which fictional world would you like to visit and why? Is there a fictional character you’d want to have with you?

I’d love to visit the world of Outlander—there’s something so magical about the sweeping Scottish landscapes, the sense of adventure, and the deep, passionate love story at its heart. Of course, I’d want Jamie Fraser by my side—who wouldn’t? He’s strong, loyal, and has that irresistible Scottish charm! Plus, I wouldn’t mind hearing him call me ‘Sassenach’ just once!

NK – I’m with you there. 

Do you carry a writer’s notebook with you? How important do you feel they are?

I absolutely love pretty stationery, including notebooks, but I don’t actually use one for jotting down story ideas. Instead, I prefer to use my phone, which syncs with my laptop—this way, I can pull up my notes instantly when working on a story. Sometimes, inspiration strikes when I’m out and about, and I’ll even write entire scenes straight into my manuscript on my phone. It’s a lifesaver for capturing ideas before I forget them!

Which authors do you admire?

I’ve admired Heidi Swain from the very beginning of her career, and I was lucky enough to meet her at the Romantic Novelists’ Association Conference last year—she was absolutely lovely and super friendly! I also have huge admiration for my good friend, Sarah Hope, who is truly inspirational. She successfully runs her own indie author business while also being traditionally published with Boldwood. Sarah is an absolute superwoman!

In your opinion, what are the most common mistakes new writers make?

New writers often fall into a few common traps—over-editing the first chapter instead of finishing the book, using too many adverbs (we’ve all been guilty of a ‘whispered softly’ or two!), or waiting for the elusive ‘perfect time’ to write instead of just getting words on the page. Imposter syndrome is another big one—doubting yourself and hesitating to call yourself a writer.

I’d love to say I’ve avoided these mistakes, but… I’ve made all of them at some point! The important thing is to learn, grow, and keep writing and learning.

Would you rather (just for fun)  –

Have the ability to see into the future or be able to visit the past?

Visit the past—imagine all the inspiration for books.

Have the ability to move things with your mind or read minds?

Move things with my mind—less effort, more convenience!

Sing or dance to your favourite song for the rest of your life?

Dance—I can’t sing, and nobody deserves to hear me try!

Have money or power?

Neither. The most important things in life are health, happiness, and being surrounded by loved ones.

Have an endless summer or winter?

Summer—but not too hot, thanks to my personal built-in heating system (hot flushes!).

Drink tea or coffee?

Tea, 100%. No contest.

See the movie or read the book first?

Movie—controversial, I know!

Read a Paperback or eBook?

Either. As long as there’s a good story, I’m happy.

Would you rather have magical powers here on earth or live in a magical place without powers?

Magical powers here on Earth—because I’d totally use them to tidy the house!

About Abbey Hicks –

Abbey Hicks writes sweet, feel-good romance filled with dashing heroes, quirky heroines, and those heart-melting happily ever afters. Whether it’s contemporary romance or paranormal love stories, she brings her signature charm and a sprinkle of magic to every page.

Writing as Abbey MacMunn, her debut paranormal romance was shortlisted for the prestigious Joan Hessayon Award for new writers. Since then, Abbey has written many more books, including the bestselling steamy paranormal romcom series, Love Bites: A Dating Agency for Paranormals.

When she’s not dreaming up her next romantic hero, you’ll find her on walks with her mischievous but lovable labradoodle, Brody, or binge-watching anything from romcoms to fantasy/sci-fi. If it has romance, adventure, and a dash of humour, she’s there!

Say hello to Abbey via her website, Facebook, Payhip, Instagram and Twitter (X). Click here to sign up to her newsletter.

 *****

About Candlelight Dreams in Cosy Cove – 

Welcome to Cosy Cove, where love burns brighter than any candle!

Beth Williams thought her dreams had melted away after a devastating breakup, but she finds a flicker of hope at Harbour Lights, her artisan candle shop nestled in the heart of Cosy Cove. But just when Beth thinks she’s content with her quiet life, a ruggedly handsome stranger threatens to reignite her carefully guarded heart.

Enter Jacob Lawson, a charming journalist whose assignment in the quaint seaside town quickly becomes more than just another story. As Beth introduces him to the town’s hidden gems—from the bustling summer fair to sunset walks on the beach—Jacob finds himself captivated by more than the scenery.

But as their attraction simmers, both Beth and Jacob must confront their deepest fears. Can Beth trust her heart to love again? And will Jacob choose the comfort of Cosy Cove over the call of his career?

Join Beth and Jacob on a journey of second chances, sweet moments, and the kind of love that makes every day feel like a summer holiday. Will they find the courage to embrace a future together, or will their fears extinguish the flame before it truly ignites?

Get ready to fall head over heels for Cosy Cove, where every page promises a warm hug for your heart. Perfect for fans of seaside romances, charming small towns, and love stories that sparkle brighter than the sea at sunset!

Candlelight Dreams in Cosy Cove was released by Ginger Dog Books on 28th February 2025. Click here to buy on Amazon. 

by

Laura

I’m Laura. I started Novel Kicks in 2009. I wanted a place to post my writing as well as give other writers like me the opportunity to do the same. There is also a monthly book club, a writing room which features writing prompts, book reviews, competitions, author interviews and guest posts.

I grew up by the sea (my favourite place in the world) and I currently live in Hampshire. I am married to Chris, have a cat named Buddy and I would love to be a writer. I’m trying to write the novel I’ve talked so much about writing if only I could stop pressing delete. I’ve loved writing since creative writing classes in primary school. I have always wanted to see my teacher Miss Sayers again and thank her for the encouragement. When not trying to write the novel or writing snippets of stories on anything I can get my hands on, I love reading, dancing like a loon and singing to myself very badly. My current obsession is Once Upon a Time and I would be happy to live with magic in the enchanted forest surrounded by all those wonderful stories provided that world also included Harry Potter. I love reading chick lit. contemporary fiction and novels with mystery.