Interview with Joni Hahn

I was intrigued by the premise of Agent I1 when I first read about it, and after getting into the first chapter I wasn’t disappointed. It was fun to learn more about the book during my interview with the author, Joni Hahn.

Hi, Joni, and welcome to Coffee Time Romance! Why don’t you tell us a little about yourself? 

I’m married to my own, personal superhero and I’m the mother of two young adults who turned out pretty good, if I do say so myself.  I also adopted a son-in-law this past year, whom I love like my own.  I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, going to concerts and watching movies.   

Sounds like you’ve got a wonderful family. Tell me about Agent I1? 

Agent I1: Tristan is Book 1 in The D.I.R.E. Agency Series trilogy.  It’s a sci fi romance series about a private mercenary agency that gives its agents super powers through scientific enhancements.  The first three books in the series are not stand alones, though each book contains its own romance.   Tristan is given the ability to turn invisible and teleport.

I love series, and since you said this is part of a three book series please let me know what’s next.

Book 2, Agent E2: Aidan, and Book 3, Agent T3: d’Artagnan, were both released with Book 1 and are available now.   Aidan is my electrical conductor.  D’Artagnan is given the ability to time travel.

That’s great! So when readers fall in love with this first one, they won’t have to wait for the next. Now, we met Rachel when she’s about to marry a man in order to help her family. What was your inspiration for her character?

I have several friends and relatives whose full time jobs are helping people.  One day, they may be taking someone to the doctor, the next, they’re cooking meals for someone who’s sick, or they’re mowing the grass because someone’s out of town, etc.  I think people like this are a dying breed but should be admired – and multiplied. J  We need more kindness in the world.

That’s so true, and many times those kind people don’t get recognized. I was really drawn into your story from the start. It was very unique. What was your inspiration behind creating an agent like Tristan? 

I love all of the Marvel and DC superhero movies.  Larger than life superheroes riding in on their shields, hammers, motorcycles, etc. are what romantic entertainment is all about.  What romance reader doesn’t like to be swept away by a hot superhero that can’t be defeated?  I’m also a long-time fan of Suzanne Brockmann’s Navy SEAL books.  Put the two together and… tada!

I am a big fan of superhero movies, too. No wonder I liked Tristan! Tristan and Rachel hit it off after their whirlwind trip around the world. What did you want to convey in the development of their relationship? 

They are exactly what the other needs.  Her goodness gives him motivation and hope, a reason for what he does.  She needs a white knight to protect her from those that want to take advantage of her goodness. 

They really balance each other out, and their chemistry is apparent their first meeting. Do you have a favorite scene from your book? Which one and why? 

When Tristan and Aidan are in the X-Ray room and Tristan makes the conscious decision to risk his life to save her.  He and Aidan both know that if he powers up his system, it could kill him.  Aidan thought he’d slept with Rachel just for fun, but Tristan proves its true love that motivates him.  Sigh…

Sigh and swoon! How could you not fall for a guy like that? With all three books in the series out, do you have any other projects coming soon? 

Book 4 of The D.I.R.E. Agency Series is planned for late March or early April.  It will be a stand-alone novel.  Book 5 is planned for summer.  This fall, I plan to release Book 1 in my romantic comedy series, The Royal Texans.

You’re keeping busy, and I’m sure you fans will love it. For someone who hasn’t read your work before, why should they give Agent I1 a try? 

As you said before, it’s unique.  I haven’t read a series like it.  Most superhero/Navy SEAL/mercenary novels are

rather dark.  This series, though full of action and romance, is a light, easy read.

Outside of romance, do you enjoy reading other genres?  

To be honest, I don’t read a lot outside of romance.  However, when I do, it’s usually suspense like Lee Childs, Vince Flynn, John Clancy, etc.

Don’t feel bad, I don’t read a lot outside of romance either J. Do you have any advice for aspiring writers? 

Learn your craft.  There are so many books out there now and you only get one shot at a first impression.  Write the best book you can and dare to be different!   Join RWA for the educational and networking benefits.

Great advice! The contacts I made through RWA have been invaluable to me. Last fun question, if money were no object what hobby would you pick up?

I would buy a farm and turn it into an animal shelter.  I’d make it the most popular adoption center in the country.  I would hire staff and vets to care for the animals and just… love them.  J  The need for euthanizing would be history!

Wow! Sounds like an amazing plan! Thanks so much for the fun interview, Joni!