Mistress Bella Interviews

Michael Pennington is here!

2009-11-17T12:54:00.000-08:00

1). Tell us your latest news? I’m nearly done with the sequel to Zhena, my first novel. It will be titled Dohch.

2). When and why did you begin writing? I’ve always had ideas for stories but as a Naval Submarine Officer, I never had time to put them on paper. With my current job, I travel a great deal so I spend a lot of time in airports and hotels. I decided to put the free time to good use.

3). What books have most influenced your life most? I have always been a fan of two genre’s, fantasy and espionage. In espionage, some of my favorites have been the Jack Ryan and Jason Bourne series.

4). What are your current projects? I have been working on Dohch for about four months and hope to have it completed by Christmas.

5). Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing? One of my main goals whenever I write is to always make the story somewhat believable. I never want the reader to stop and say, “Oh come on that would never happen.” For a spy novel, this can be difficult but I think I’ve achieved it both in Zhena and Dohch.

6). Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work? For espionage, I prefer Tom Clancy and Robert Ludlum. I particularly enjoy the way Clancy will always give a background on each character as they’re introduced. That way you truly get a feel for who they are and what their motivations are.

7). When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? I have always had an active imagination. I’m also someone who doesn’t like to idle. When I found myself sitting in hotel rooms without much to do, I decided to try it and see if I enjoyed it. I was surprised with how much pleasure it gave me. While I can’t say I found writing easy, it was definitely not as hard as I thought it could be.

8). How long does it take you to write a book? That mainly depends on my travel and work schedule. The more I travel and the more free time I have when I’m home, the faster I get things done. Zhena took about six months.

9). What is your work schedule like when you're writing? It varies wildly. When I’m on the road, I generally spend a few hours each evening working after dinner. When I’m home, I try to work for an hour or so after I put my son to bed.

10). Do you have any strange handwriting habits, like capitalizing all your “r”s or dotting your “I”s with heart (or anything like that)? Not really. As a technical person, I want to make sure my work is accurate and believable. My characters have been accused of being a little too logical and straightforward which is true of my own personality.
11). What do you want to know about the future? As the father of a three year old, I’d like to know what the future holds for the environment, the economy, and politics. Basically, I want to make sure he grows up in a world where he can achieve his own definition of success.
12). Are you a morning person or a night person? I’m definitely a night person. Being in the military, I’ve had to get up early for years but I’ve never enjoyed it.
13). Do you like thunderstorms? I would have to say no. I’ve spent more than one cold night driving a submarine on the surface through a cold driving rain.
14). What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email, myspace, twitter, etc? The best way to contact me is through my facebook page.
15). Anything you would like to add? If you want to enjoy an exciting spy thriller set in modern times with aspects of the cold war or if you simply like strong female lead characters, pick up a copy of Zhena. I’ve been told by many people who never read a spy novel before that they were very surprised by how much they enjoyed it. My main character is continuously trying to balance the incredible events or her spy life with the everyday events of her family. I’ve received numerous excellent reviews and hope to make the entire series a trilogy.

Today We Welcome Kelly Abell

2009-11-15T15:31:00.000-08:00

1). Tell us your latest news?

I have a book that was released by Hearts On Fire Books in August 2009. It is a paranormal romance for young adults. The title is Haunted Destiny and it is a chilling tale of trapped ghosts, evil spirits, and the only girl who can see them.

2). When and why did you begin writing?

I wrote short stories back in high school but I seriously began writing novels in the late ‘90s. I was having a conversation with one of my employees one day about wanting to write a book. We were discussing one book in particular that I wanted to buy on writing. The next day that employee brought me a Barnes and Noble gift card and told me to buy that book and start writing. I was speechless. So I wouldn’t let him down that is exactly what I did. The rest is history!

3). What are your current projects?

I am currently working on a romantic thriller under the working title Captured In Lies. It is the sequel to my first novel Sealed In Lies. It’s going to be a blast!

4). Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

I can usually come up with great beginnings and endings but it’s that flabby middle that snags me every time. I am not much of an outliner so I find myself getting a little stuck in the middle of the book and sometimes the characters want to “hijack the bus”, but I usually get around it by doing short chapter outlines until I make it to the end.

5). Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

I love Nora Roberts. I think her characters are so real and so deep. I have participated in discussions on various forums where readers talk about her characters like they are real people. They get mad at them and hate them. It’s really cool. I want my characters to be that real to my readers.

6). When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

This is a fun question. When I was in high school I would sit in my room for hours and write stories. I wrote a series of stories about some teens that went to West Side High School. Hmmm… maybe I should resurrect that series and wipe the dust off!

7). How long does it take you to write a book?

Usually about 6 months. If I’m really focused and can write every day for a few hours I could get it done sooner than that, but with my day job, the distraction of two teenagers and a husband it usually takes longer.

8). What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

I usually write for an hour or so every evening. With two teenagers involved in sports and drama it limits my time. I usually try to get some good solid time in on Sundays.

9). Are you a morning person or a night person?
I am definitely a morning person. I get a lot of ideas around 4 a.m. and wake up to the notebook I keep beside my bed. If I didn’t work a day job I would probably write from 5 or 6 in the morning straight through till noon.
10). Do you like thunderstorms?
I love thunderstorms. I’ve always liked them. They are so humbling aren’t they? We really are small creatures in the scheme of things. Having lived through two hurricanes you learn to really respect nature.
11). What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email, myspace, twitter, etc?
You can reach me on my website www.kellyabellbooks.com
You can purchase my books through my website or these fine locations:
www.heartsonfirebooks.com
www.amazon.com
www.barnesandnoble.com
www.fictionwise.com

12). Anything you would like to add?
Thank you so much for having me here today. I really like to interact with my readers so please stop by my website, read my Writing Tips for Writers Blog, and be sure to sign my guestbook while you’re there.

Please Welcome Darren Michaels

2009-11-10T07:29:00.000-08:00

Hi Darren,

1). Tell us your latest news?

I am excited to announce that my book will soon be available in adult book stores around the country! Major chains such as Fascinations, Castle Megastore and some of the Adam & Eve stores are already carrying my book, and more stores are ordering as we speak. I am so happy to have written a book with such cross over appeal that it fits books both mainstream book stores and also adult book stores as well.

2). When and why did you begin writing?

I actually wrote my first story almost on a dare. I was dating someone who called me one night after reading a new book she had just purchased. She wanted to read this hot, steamy scene to me and so I went to her house. I was really surprised at what she read to me; it was far more rough than I had pictured it being. I guess I had an image of a knight on a white horse rescuing a princess and making love to her in a field of daisies. Warped, I know. Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised. But I was also intrigued and thought that could Write something similar. She of course did not believe me, so we made a bet (I wont say what it was ;-) A week later I turned in my homework and thus the story begins…..

3). Tell us a little about Flipside Erotica, how did you come up with the idea to write your story in such a different way?

As a creative exercise I wanted to see if I could write a story from the other point of view, so I gave it a shot. When I was done, I was pretty happy with the results. I started showing it to some female friends of mine, and no one believed that I had written it. I figured that was a good sign.

4). We see many more Romance/Erotica writers that are women than men. How has your experience been as a man writing in this genre?

I think it is a huge marketing advantage to be a male writer in a female dominated genre. Assuming my work is good enough, I think it would help it stand out even more since I have a different outlook on this topic. Also, it lends an entirely different twist to author appearances and book signings. Being a reasonably attractive guy who writes deliciously erotic stories seems to be quite a turn on for some of my “fans” It also helps me do more “research” for more stories in future books J

5). Darren, you write half the book from the woman’s viewpoint, what was it like to look at things from our side?
I seem to be able to click into that part of my brain fairly easily. I am a total sappy romantic at heart, so I try to use that mindset when writing from the female perspective. When I started out, I wrote from the man’s point of view and then “translated it” to the other perspective. Now I can easily flip back and forth or even start on the female side and write the whole story and then translate it to the male side.

6). What was the biggest challenge in writing your stories?

Trying to make sure I am not too repetitive with my verbiage or scenes. Since half of the stories are true, I write them as they happened. At times I find that I do follow a certain routine in a sexual encounter, so I need to mix things up on the pages and in the bedroom.

7). When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Just now, doing this interview J Seriously though I have been writing these types of stories for a long time. I wrote an erotic poem for my high school english teacher…she was hot.

8). How long does it take you to write a book?

Once I decided to get serious about it I had already complied a fair amount of stories, so it only took about 8 months to compile, edit and finish out stories to have a book completed.

9). What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

At the moment I have the luxury of writing only when I feel like it. I have only self imposed deadlines since I am self published. I do want to have book 2 ready early next year, so I am trying to be in a writing mood more often these days.

10) What other projects are you currently working on?

At the moment my main writing focus is Volume 2 of Flipside Erotica

11). What do you want to know about the future?
If I will be killed by a love crazed stalker I my sleep. And if I will make enough money to retire and fly fish the world.
12). Are you a morning person or a night person?
Night person…definitely a night person The only good thing about morning is that it is over by lunchtime.
13). Do you like thunderstorms?
No…I love thunderstorms. Especially here in AZ where we have really cool Monsoon thunderstorms with phenomenal lighting storms. Very cool.
14). What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email, myspace, twitter,
etc?
Please sign up as a friend and fan on Facebook and follow me on twitter at twitter.com/flipsideerotica. I always love to hear from people via email at Darren@flipside-erotica.com or through my website contact page www.flipside-erotica.com

15). Anything you would like to add?
This interview was fun and I hope it shed a little light on the guy behind the book. I appreciate the opportunity you have provided me by adding me to your website and “exposing me” to your readers. ;-)

Today's Author is Pierre Roustan

2009-11-07T19:49:00.001-08:00

1) Could you please tell us a little about yourself?

Some say I’m a strange sort—such as the members of my family. They consider me a hoot. A pleasure. Entertainment. Personally, I’m just an old-fashioned guy who loves books, both reading and writing. I also like pizza. A lot.

I was born in the lovely city of Chicago where some of my favorite sounds are the car horns and that sweet saxophone out in the street playing to the drummer beat of those upside-down pails. I have a brother and sister, a mother and father, three aunts, three uncles, a grandmother, a great big batch of cousins, four daughters, one son and a partridge in a pear tree. We’re all one big happy family (only we’re spread out all over the

U.S.

I have a B.A. in Creative Writing and have fallen in love with the written word a million times over ever since I was ten.

2) Give us a sneak peak into your current release

Try and picture the frightening combination of Ellen Ripley from “Aliens”, Sarah Connor from “Terminator” and Selene from “Underworld”, and you’ll see the heroine of the novel THE CAIN LETTERS in full force: her name is Alexandra Glade, merciless vampire hunter, and the seeker of a strange, mysterious book that could reveal the truth about the origin of vampirism.

Problem is—she’s not the only one after the book. Another problem—once she finds it, everyone will be after her. The secrets she will discover will unlock the most terrifying choice she will have to make. Against all logic, surprisingly, to save mankind, she must protect her worst enemy: a vampire named Cain. The same Cain written in the Bible, vile brother of Abel. The original vampire in existence.

3) Tell us about your writing process. Do you outline or just start writing?

I’m a strange morphing creature when it comes to my writing process. I’ll give you the general ‘outline’ (ironic I mention that word) of how I write:

One) I grab as many snacks as possible and also be sure to include a 24-liter of pop or juice.

Two) I play some music—all kinds of music.

Three) I start doing research while eating and drinking and listening to my music.

Four) I plot. And plot. And plot.

Five) Once I finish plotting…I write.

Six) Taking breaks in between writing includes sending fun e-mails, browsing through Facebook, playing Pogo games or internet poker, watching funny YouTube videos or perusing writer/editor/agent blogs.

The fact is: I deviate a lot from my process. It’s an evolving, morphing creature, my writing process is. Strange, I am. Yoda, I am not. The Jedi, I love, yes.

4) What genre is your favorite to write? Read?

I’m only beginning to discover that it doesn’t matter what genre I write or read. The more I write and read, the more genres I write and read. They’re directly proportional.

5) Favorite authors?

I have several: Terry Goodkind, Terry Brooks, J.K. Rowling, J.R.R. Tolkien, Isaac Asimov. They’re not only my favorites—they’re my inspirations.

6) Is there a genre you haven't written, but would love to tackle in the future?

I remember picking up one of those pop-up books—you know, for kids, and they’re so cool. But what was really cool about it was that it was written by Stephen King. Stephen King! Beautiful short story along the lines of an R.L. Stine Goosebumps book. Who would’ve thought King could write a children’s book?

So, likewise, I’d love to tackle a children’s book. Maybe middle-grade.

7) What's planned next for your writing career?

The sky’s the limit, I’ve noticed. I’m currently working on book 3 of the REVENANTS OF ANARCHY series. THE CAIN LETTERS is book 1. Book 2, CHIMERA FALLS, will be released in May of next year. The final book of the series will be Book 4. Watch out for the series!

Other than that, let’s see—I have a werewolf thriller I’m planning, a psychological thriller, another urban fantasy with a touch of sci-fi, a paranormal drama, a psychological horror novel, and a historical horror novel.

My schedule’s packed.

8) Do you work well with deadlines? Or do they stall your writing process?

I was lucky enough to warm up to the concept of deadlines, working a couple years ago as a caption editor for a few TV networks. I had 30-minute shows that needed to be captioned in at least 5 hours before sending them in (and I had to be dead-on accurate, too, and given how some people don’t know how to speak English correctly, that was always a challenge).

So, no, not at all—deadlines don’t bother me.

9) When did you first start writing?

Somewhere around 8 years old. I think.

10) What influenced you to submit your work for publication?

Hope. Just plain hope. I had it in my heart already that simply writing a book was an accomplishment by itself. The moment I wrote the last words on that last page, I felt beautiful. Only the desire to have others read it, to share my work—that spurred me to keep trying with the submissions. Most importantly, though, it kept me writing.

11) What gets you in the writing mood? Music, reading, etc.

Usually the darkness does. I write at night (fitting given my genre and what I write about!). While sitting in the dark with the computer screen glaring at me, I also listen to some mood music—sometimes contemporary, other times classical. Hard rock hits the nose right on the button, too.

12) Do you belong to a critique group? If so, how has this helped your writing, would you recommend it to others? If not, would you consider joining, if not, why do you like to work alone?

13) What is the best way for readers to contact you?

I’d love to hear from readers all kinds of ways—616-608-0227 is my number, my e-mail address is roustan@hotmail.com, you can see me on Facebook, http://facebook.com/proustan. My main character Alexandra Glade has her own MySpace, http://myspace.com/Alexandra_Glade! I’m also on Twitter under the name “Starwise”. I do have a blog at the address http://writingandreading.today.com. My official author web site is http://pierreroustan.spaces.live.com.

14) Any advice you want to give aspiring writers?

Don’t write what’s popular or what’s in. Be out. Be an outsider, live on the edge, write something fresh. Write what you love. Never, ever, ever give up. Most authors write a ton of work before an agent or editor notices just ONE project. And all it takes is ONE project to be noticed. So even after two or three or four tries in getting your foot in the door, do NOT give up. Use common sense when you’re thinking about that—seriously, eventually that door’s going to open, because you got your foot stuck in it so many times! Just keep trying. Soon that door will have to open. You’ve pried it enough already.

Most important thing: believe in your writing. And yourself.

Today's Featured Author is Laura Hogg

2009-11-03T08:10:00.000-08:00

Welcome Laura!

1) First, could you start by telling us what you are currently working on for publication and/or about your current release?

I have several things out and coming out, but the immediate one is Emma the Outlaw, to be released with Eirelander Publishing in November. It’s a Western Romance. Here’s a little about it:

Emma is led to the hanging platform to be put to death. Her father was framed for a serious crime, and she does this to save him from execution.

She looks around and sees her husband on a horse, guns blazing. In a whirlwind rescue, she hops on the back of his horse, and they’re off. Racing for the hills, she realizes that they will spend the rest of their lives as outlaws, but doing good deeds.

They capture a wanted man and leave him at the doorstep of the sheriff’s office. The true villain approaches Emma but is killed before she can prove her innocence. The sheriff finds Emma and her husband and orders them at gunpoint to raise their hands. He says he’s going to take them in. Instead they offer him a deal: they will capture the bad guys behind the scenes and allow him to take all the credit. He agrees.

Emma and her husband walk away happily and plan their next adventure, how to capture the guy on the picture the sheriff handed them. Ahead for them lies a life of excitement and passionate love.

2) Could you please tell us a little about yourself?

Let’s see. I’ve been married for twenty years, and my daughter is in college, a writer herself. I'm a quiet person, but I’ve been in rock bands (I play two instruments). Currently, I work in a private little reading school, tutoring, and both my husband and I are into health and fitness. Colorado is a wonderful state to live in, and inspires many of my stories. Emma the Outlaw is set there. And cats. I'm a major cat person. Currently, Cookie and Chewy reside with us. Cookie has no tail, and she does such funny tricks, I'm thinking about filming her and putting her on You Tube. That would be a way to get a lot of hits, and I could put my book cover in the background. J (Well, I try to be funny, but it doesn’t always work.)

3) Favorite authors?

I have so many library cards and read a stack of books, usually five to ten at a time. Hmm, let me pick a book out of the tall pile, I'm reading a Jude Devereaux, and of course history books. Right now, it’s the 1920s I'm researching. I have short stories out set in that era, and friends have suggested I write a novel set then. A few of my author friends are really talented, and I have enjoyed their work immensely. For example, Sandy Marshall, Linda LaRoque, Dawn Chartier, J. A. Saare, Diana Rubino, and others.

4) Is there a genre you haven't written, but would love to tackle in the future?

Sci-fi. My novel Romeo vs. Juliet touches upon that. I’ve done some research and am currently trying to learn more.

5) What's planned next for your writing career?

I have several things under contract but not yet released, and a few works, mostly historical romance that I'm polishing, oh, and a modern-day, sci-fi embellished novel as well as a screenplay.

6) When did you first start writing?

When I was seven, I wrote a stack of poetry that I kept above our piano. In high school and beyond, it was rock songs. In college and beyond, novels. I didn’t have the guts to submit until I was in my thirties. I'm naturally quite shy but have learned to hide it. Writing also makes you tougher because not everyone believes as I do that we should treat others with kindness.

7) What influenced you to submit your work for publication?

It was finally time to dare to take the plunge. All those French novels I read in college as a French major got me to thinking more creatively, I guess, that and the guitar I carried around.

8) What is the best way for readers to contact you? Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/editpicture.php#/profile.php?id=626483435&ref=profile

Myspace: http://www.facebook.com/editpicture.php#/profile.php?id=626483435&ref=profile

My paranormal blog, Travel the Ages:

http://traveltheages.blogspot.com/

9) Any advice you want to give aspiring writers?

Don’t let others get you down. Keep writing and working hard at it, and think positive. It will happen.

10) Anything else you’d like us to know?

I answered a few things below. Thanks for the interview! If anyone who writes paranormals would like to be a guest at my blog, please let me know. -Laura

L_Hogg@comcast.net

Happy Birthday Lex Valentine and Happy Halloween Everyone

2009-10-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

Today our very special guest is author Lex Valentine because it's her birthday! Hope it's a great one!

1). Tell us your latest news?

October is a busy month for me. It’s my birthday on Halloween so I’ve got two contests going where readers can win an autographed copy of each of my print books! (Info on the news page at my website.) I’m also being interviewed a couple of places, and am guest blogging in a couple of places. I have three releases this month: Rousing Caine, a M/M ghost story in the Love Me Dead anthology from MLR Press, Ain’t Nuthin’ But a Hellhound, a dark tale in the Weirdly 3 anthology from Wild Child Publishing, and the print version of Fire Season!

The print book is especially exciting because Fire Season was recently nominated for a Rainbow Award and its hero, Holden Antaeus, won The Romance Studio’s Summer Hero contest.

2). When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve been writing since I was a child. However, this journey to being a published author began just over a year ago when this amazing author named Jennifer Leeland began commenting on my blog Sunlight Sucks. She thought I was good enough to be subbing my work to publishers. She said it so much I started to think maybe I could try this… so I did. I started subbing manuscripts in late August 2008 and got my first contract October 30, 2008.

3). What are your current projects?

I’m working on Book 4 of the Tales of the Darkworld series. Ride the Lightning is Emily and Vahid’s story. Anyone who read Fire Season knows there was something brewing between those two secondary characters during the retreat. Now, you get to find out exactly what happened between them. I also have a couple of sequels planned for last year’s free Christmas story Christmas Hookup. One is a M/M short story called Christmas Catch. The other short story is M/F, entitled Christmas in Hell. I’m also contemplating a short Antaeus Christmas story, a freebie, and I’m about to polish the first 1K words of Bad Choices, a WIP I entered in Loose Id’s Hook contest. I just made the Top Twenty so I need to be ready in case I make it to the Top Ten.

4). Tell us a little about all the other projects you have in the works. I understand you are also an artist.

I do book covers, website graphics, and book trailers on the side. Working in Photoshop is relaxing and lets my brain sort of drift from idea to idea as I work so I think a lot about my stories when I’m creating graphics. At the moment, I need to finish trailers for Renee Wildes’ Lycan Tides, Mina Carter’s Playing With Fyre, and put one together for Rousing Caine. I’m also working on a website for author Tess MacKall. Tess has a very southern, sultry way of writing so I had to make sure I captured that in her website graphics.

5). Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Finding the time to write! LOL I’m the sole IT person at work so I get called at night and on the weekends a lot and I don’t get to take much vacation time. I think I have more than 180 hours on the books. LOL And it’s hard to shift gears and get in the mood to write when you’re exhausted.

As far as the craft itself goes, I’m not perfect but I’m told I write very clean. I do know that I tell more than I show so I almost always have to run a self-edit over a manuscript before it can be sent to a publisher. I’m also the queen of dropped words. I leave out a lot of the smaller words. My brain goes faster than my fingers.

6). Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

It’s truly hard to choose just one author as my favorite. I like so many authors for so many different reasons. I can say that I am especially addicted to Julia Quinn’s work. The sexual tension, the humor, the emotion she weaves into each story never fails to capture me. I love a perfectly written Regency and she just does it for me. Hits all my hot buttons and then some.

7). When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I don’t think I ever came to that realization. I think it was just always in me to write. I don’t remember ever consciously sitting down and saying, “This is what I want to do.” It’s always just been something I did from the time I was very young. I started making up little stories and poems in probably 2^nd or 3^rd grade.

8). How long does it take you to write a book?

It depends on real life truthfully. It seems like each of my stories has taken a different length of time to complete for different reasons. For a novel length manuscript, I try to give myself 6 weeks to complete it. I’ve been known to do a 7-10K short in a day. A 20-30K novella is generally 2-4 weeks.

9). What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

I’m not disciplined in the sense that I write X number of words daily or weekly. My writing “schedule” is dictated by my deadlines and the job that pays my bills. I can be very single minded, focused and well, driven, when I’m on deadline. I’ve been known to stay chained to my desk for three days, only getting up for food, drink, or a potty break… while turning out 7-10K a day. Normally, though, I write on the weekends and sometimes a little after work or during lunch breaks. The bulk of my writing is done in Word Wars on the weekend with a group of Cobblestone authors. They let me in before I even got a contract from Cobb. LOL

10). I understand you work in an interesting place?
I work at the largest privately owned cemetery in my county, which is interesting to me but not to everyone. A lot of people are frightened by the cemetery and uneasy being around the dead. I love the history. Our main mausoleum was built in 1911 so it’s almost 100 years old and it’s a gorgeous structure inside and out made with granites and marbles from all over the world.
11). What do you want to know about the future?
I’d like to know that my daughter will be okay and have a good life. I’m not much to dwell on what’s far in the future and out of my control.
12). Are you a morning person or a night person?
By nature I’m nocturnal, but I’ve had to learn to function well in the morning because I work 7:30am-5 pm.
13). Do you like thunderstorms?
I like cooler weather. I’m from NoCal so I’m not a fan of the heat. Storms, rain, wind, lightning, etc don’t bother me at all and I love watching the elements when they are severe. Mother Nature can be breathtaking.
14). What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email, myspace, twitter,
etc?
Email works well. Also comments on my personal blog at sunlightsucks.com or the blog on my author website at lexvalentine.com. I don’t get on Twitter as much as I used to. Probably burned myself out by starting up an account for Lex that is separate from my personal Twitter account that I’ve had for a couple of years now. LOL
15). Anything you would like to add?
I hope everyone has a great Halloween! Have a drink for me. It IS my birthday after all! Thanks for having me here today! It’s been a lot of fun.

Please Help Us Welcome B.J. McCall

2009-10-30T09:16:00.001-07:00

1) First, could you start by telling us what you are currently working on for publication and/or about your current release?

In October I will have two paranormal ebooks released. Embrace Forever is a futuristic tale about Jastra, a condemned female who is sentenced to life as a sex slave on the vampire prison planet of Draco, and her vampire master, Dauthus.
Embrace Forever will be published by Ellora’s Cave. Heartfire is the futuristic love story between a vampire who saves a shape-shifter, female dragon from the auction block. Changeling Press is the publisher of Heartfire.

December brings a Christmas werewolf tale titled Canine Call. The ebook will be part of the multi-author, short paranormal series, Holiday Howlz published by Changeling Press.

2) Could you please tell us a little about yourself?

Born in West Virginia, I live on the beautiful Central Coast of California. I’m an avid reader of all genres and have recently taken up the hobby of stargazing. I love the Central Coast’s mild weather and enjoy taking long walks. Daily I walk to the shore, looking for dolphins, whales, otters and sea lions.

I am multi-published in paranormal, sci-fi and contemporary genres, both in ebook and print. I currently write for four publishers: Ellora’s Cave, Changeling Press, Red Sage and Cobblestone Press.

3) Give us a sneak peak into your current release

My most recent release was Dark Obsession, the third story in my sci-fi Cosmic Cops series. Cosmic Cops is the nickname for the Galactic Enforcement Agency and the officers of the GEA don’t like it, but they have to live with it. The three stories in the series are about different members of the GEA.

Book One, Dark Ecstasy is Captain Isabet Renard’s story and Book Two, Dark Pleasures is about Lt. Sada Prentiss.

In Dark Obsession my Cosmic Cop is Captain Riva Vix.

Paradise Resort on Solis 6 is neutral terrain for Cosmic Cop, Riva Vix and professional thief, Landis Eden. For Riva, Landis is a dark obsession and she has one hard and fast rule, Landis can’t operate in her territory, Ryel.

Landis loves Riva and he wants more than a few stolen hours in Paradise. When the Galactic Intelligence Agency offers Landis a full pardon if he will steal a formula, Landis jumps at the chance to end his life of crime. But freedom comes with a perilous price. The operation is covert and the target is in Ryel.

All three books are available from Changeling Press and Fictionwise.

4) Tell us about your writing process. Do you outline or just start writing?

Often, I write a synopsis, but sometimes I just start writing to get the scene or the first chapter down while the idea is fresh. I may not get back to the story for days or weeks, but the genesis for the story is there.

I try to write daily and at times I will have several works-in-progress. Deadlines do dictate my writing schedule.

5) What genre is your favorite to write? Read?

I really enjoy writing paranormal and sci-fi with heroes and heroines who are vampires, werewolves, angels and warriors. I’ve often mixed paranormal and sci-fi together, creating vampire planets, shape-shifter warriors and celestial warriors.

I also love cop stories and have written both contemporary and futuristic cop heroes/heroines.

6) Favorite authors?

I enjoy a variety of genres and authors. I read Anne Stuart, Linda Howard, Janet Evanovich, and Tami Hoag. Has anyone not read at least one Nora Roberts?

Recent authors on the national scene and two of my very favorites are Angela Knight and Kate Douglas. Both are wonderful writers.

I read Michael Creighton, James Patterson, Vince Flynn and Dan Brown.

A dear friend, Emily Brightwell writes Victorian murder mysteries. I love all her books.

7) Is there a genre you haven't written, but would love to tackle in the future?

I’ve dipped my toe into magic in Knight’s Emerald and into urban fantasy, Earthly Pleasures, Jewels of the Nile I. The genres are exciting and I plan to write more warrior stories. I love the classic clash between good and evil.

8) What influenced you to submit your work for publication?

I had always wanted to write, but receiving a phone call from a high school friend inspired me. I hadn’t spoken to my friend in some time and her call telling me she’d written a romance novel and was soon to be published challenged me to starting writing the first chapter. After finishing that unpublished book, I was hooked.
I was rejected many times and sold my first story, Undercover Love, to Secrets, published by Red Sage. Ever so often I have an editor reject a story, but I revise and resubmit. Writing demands perseverance.

9) What gets you in the writing mood? Music, reading, etc.

Reading a good book inspires me to pick up my laptop and get back to work.

I love to write when it’s quiet and there aren’t any distractions. I do my best work when I am alone and the TV, etc. is off. I think my desire for quiet evolved from habits began in my early days of writing. I had a day job and I got up at 4AM to write for two to three hours before going to work. Over the years I have learned to cope with noise, but I love having the house to myself.

10) Any advice you want to give aspiring writers?

Just do it! If you want to write you must get the ideas out of your head and onto the page. Write a complete story, length does not matter, but write the beginning, the middle and an ending. Don’t stop at two or three chapters. Finish the book and you will learn from the experience.

Take classes, get critique partners, and enter contests. You need people to tell you what doesn’t work in your manuscript.

I like having my books reviewed and I appreciate the criticism as well as the praise.

Today We Welcome Sydney Somers to Mistress Bella

2009-10-28T11:34:00.000-07:00

1). Tell us your latest news?

A few ago, the first book in my Pendragon Gargoyles series, Primal Hunger, released from Samhain Publishing. Since the blurb does the best job of summing up what it’s about, here it is:

When the sun goes down, passion is unleashed.

Kennedy Beaumont loves her bartending job, even if her spirited nature sometimes gets her in trouble. Like threatening to hose down one of Pendragon’s co-owners. When it comes to Tristan, she could use a good hosing down, herself—maybe it’ll help her stop casting him as the star in her wickedest dreams. Since he goes out of his way to avoid her, it ought to be easy to put him out of her head—until he reluctantly offers her a ride home.

Gargoyle shape-shifter Tristan Callaghan hasn’t had time for anything other than recovering the mystical dagger that was used to permanently lock his brother in a prison of stone. The cat inside him should have stopped craving Kennedy’s touch long ago, but now that she’s sitting next to him in his car, his very human need for her is sharper than ever.

The distraction is costly. In a split second, Kennedy finds herself thrust into a dangerous, millennia-old hunt for Excalibur. A hunt that marks her for death—and leaves Tristan with a painful choice—sacrifice his family, his quest…or the one woman meant to be his.

2). When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve long had a love of writing, but didn’t get really serious about it until my first son was born seven years ago. Until then I’d spent months on end rewriting the first five chapters of my first book. We won’t talk about just how months that was. J But it’s strange how it took having less “me” time after he was born to make me really grab a hold of my dream of being published with both hands.

3). What books have most influenced your life most?

To Kill a Mockingbird is definitely one that has stayed with me a long time. In the romance world, I’d have to say a lot of Judith McNaught’s books made an impression in my early days of romance reading. I knew I’d loved writing before that, but not too long after my mother gave me Perfect to read, I decided that it was writing romance that made me happiest. Not too long after that I powered through Karen Robards backlist and realized how much I love suspense woven into a story, which I usually find ways to incorporate into most of my books.

4). What are your current projects?

At the moment I’m working on the next books in my Pendragon Gargoyles and Shadow Destroyer series, and trying really hard not to give in yet to the covert operators series that has been brewing in the back of my head for months.

5). Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Um, all of it? Writing in general is hard. Really hard, and it doesn’t get ant easier. I remember reading about how you have to really love it when I first started out, absorbing any article on writing I could get my hands on. But I never remember anyone saying, it’s always going to be this hard. Thankfully there are lots of really awesome days where the words just flow effortlessly and I’m so grateful that I get to spend my days writing, that the hard stuff isn’t so bad.

6). Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Does anyone really have “a” favorite author? LOL One of mine would be Kresley Cole because she always tells a highly entertaining story. I know every time I pick up one of her books, I’m in for a good time. Another favorite is Tara Janzen. One of the things about her writing is how easily she takes you right into a character’s head. Susan Elizabeth Phillips is another one because her books always make me laugh.

7). When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I remember loving writing very early on and was particularly proud of the first suspense/mystery story I wrote in elementary school, Jenny and the Glowing Green Mittens. Guess I was a fan of the paranormal even earlier on than I realized. J In high school I started writing my first novel, a young adult book about a group of teens and a murderer in the south Pacific. Never quite got around to finishing that one as I started thinking about journalism as a career. But it didn’t take me long to realize that straight fact reporting didn’t give me the creative high I got from building my own worlds and putting my characters through the wringer. J

8). How long does it take you to write a book?

Novellas tend to take me one to two months when I’m on schedule (and having a baby can really throw that out of whack) and longer ones can take me 2-4 months or so.

9). What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

Having three kids and a husband who keeps me on my toes, I’ve learned to be really flexible when it comes to my writing time. I used to write only at nights, but once my boys started school (which means really early mornings) and the baby came along (which means up a lot at night) I can’t stay up as late working as I used to. I tend to work in an hour of writing in the morning and another after lunch. Then a couple more when the kids are in bed. It’s the most balanced schedule I’ve been able to work out, even though there are plenty of days when it doesn’t work out that way at all.
10). Do you have any strange handwriting habits, like capitalizing all your “r”s or
dotting your “I”s with heart (or anything like that)?
Not really, though when I’m writing by hand, you can always tell the days the words are coming fast and furious by how it gets increasingly harder to read when I’m typing it all up later.
11). What do you want to know about the future?
How far into the future are we talking? J I’d like to know that my kids are going to be healthy and happy. Thinking a lot further ahead, I’d love to know when the human race will start colonizing the universe and exploring space.
12). Are you a morning person or a night person?
Mostly a morning person. I don’t require four cups of coffee before I feel half awake anyway. Though a morning without peanut butter can seriously screw with my head. J
13). Do you like thunderstorms?
Definitely. Especially when I’m at our family’s summer camp on the river. Nothing like sitting out on the covered porch at night, watching the rain come down in drenching sheets with flashes of lightning streaking across the sky and booming thunder.
14). What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email, myspace, twitter, etc?
E-mail is usually the best to get in touch with me directly (sydney@sydneysomers.com) though I’m also on Myspace http://www.myspace.com/sydneysomers and Facebook http://www.facebook.com/sydneysomers . The best place to find out more information about my books would definitely be my website. http://www.sydneysomers.com
15). Anything you would like to add?
Thanks for taking the time to interview me, Sky. It’s been fun.

Thank you for sharing with us Sydney! I'm sure everyone enjoyed it, and I love your book cover, it's exceptionally cool!

And here's... April Dawn

2009-10-27T09:17:00.000-07:00

1). Tell us your latest news?

Crushing Desire, my first historical novel is being released through Breathless Press. Expected release date Dec/2009. Bound by Love should be released soon after that.

2). When and why did you begin writing?

Well, I’ve had stories in my head as long as I can remember, but I started writing romance when I was about fifteen. It was hard to get romance novels at that age because I had to sneak them from my sister, who snuck them from who knows where. When my supply ran low, I would make up my own stories on my computer. It was a sort of placation for my romance novel starved mind I guess.

3). What books have most influenced your life?

Well, I love Stephen King’s On Writing. He is very funny, and that was probably the only book on writing I have ever been eager and actually able to finish. I also love Little Women. That book inspired my love of historical romance as much as the novels I read as a girl.

4). What are your current projects?

I am currently working on a number of novels. I have a pirate novel which is complete, and I’m looking for an agent to represent it. Also, I have a pair of novels about two sisters whose lives split in very different directions which I am close to completing.

5). Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Editing… I have learned a lot about editing, and while I am grateful for any opportunity to learn and improve my writing, I have a terrible time with the length of the repetitive editing process. You edit it for yourself, then you alter it with your critique partners and personal readers, then you revise it for your editors. It is a lengthy, though extremely important, process.

6). Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

While I love many of the romance writers available today, I have to return to Stephen King. He has shown a great handle on flow, humor, and plot. Three things which are essential to a story.

7). When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Well, I’ve always written. I get rather morose if I go too long without writing. The stories and characters are a part of me. I have had two novels completed for nearly five years now, both of which had been read only by one or two friends that asked to read them. I decided to share my writing about five months ago. I polished my manuscripts, and sent them off to publishers. Now that my first two novels are being published, I hope that you will all enjoy sharing the characters’ lives as much as I enjoyed it.

8). How long does it take you to write a book?

I wrote Crushing Desire for National Novel Writing Month, but there are novels that I have had on the back burner for years now. It depends on how much I work on the particular story.

9). What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

I spend a lot of time working when I am inspired, and a lot of time on twitter when I am not inspired. I always have to make time for my son, who is one year old, and of course, my hubby gets some alone time after my son goes off to bed.

10). Do you have any strange handwriting habits, like capitalizing all your “r”s or dotting your “I”s with heart (or anything like that)?
I can write just as well with my left as I can with my right because I’m ambidextrous. Of course, I have terrible handwriting so that isn’t saying much.

11). What do you want to know about the future?
Which will finally win: Pepsi, or Coke? I’m telling you, it keeps me up at night.

12). Are you a morning person or a night person?
I’m a morning person. Most of my best work is done in the quiet before my husband and son are up for the day and asking for breakfast and a diaper change consecutively.
13) Do you like thunderstorms?
I like them as long as I’m not in them. The lightening, from a distance, can be truly beautiful as it shoots across the sky.

14). What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email, myspace, twitter, etc?
Well, there are a number of ways that readers can get me. I have an email address aprildawnbooks@ymail.com Join my website for exclusives, and email blasts. http://aprildawnbooks.com You can also join me on twitter, myspace, or facebook by searching for aprildawnbooks. I have a number of other profiles on sites like goodreads.com, an excellent site for readers and authors alike.
Here's a Link to April's trailer Here is the link for the trailer for Crushing Desire. Thanks - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHwRZPCUgP0

15). Anything you would like to add?
2459 + 3345 = 5804
Thanks, I’ve been dying to do that.

Today's Special Guest is Shiela Stewart

2009-10-24T15:41:00.000-07:00

1). Tell us your latest news?

After waiting months and several publishers later I am happy to announce the release of the seventh book in my Darkness Series, Consuming the Darkness. I’ve had a rough 10 months with the publisher I was with selling to another publisher who then cancelled the line. I then took my books to another publisher who turned out to be nothing of what they claimed and so once again I was on the search for a place for my books. I was lucky to find Breathless Press and they were kind enough to take on all of my books. J Consuming the Darkness was supposed to be released in early spring but with all the transfers and sell outs it sat in my folders patiently waiting for its debut.

2). When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve been writing all my life. As a child I would make up stories for friends and family and then as I grew, I began to write in note books, releasing all the tales that cluttered my brain. I often used writing as a release from stress, upset, and a means of escape.

3). What books have most influenced your life most?

There aren’t any particular books that have influenced me but more so authors. In my teens and early adulthood I read a lot of V.C. Andrews books. I would say that was the start to my love of romance. I also read Stephen King books and the inner suspense writer in me immerged. But it was the style of Nora Roberts writing that spurred me to look into becoming a published author.

4). What are your current projects?

I have two on the go right now. I’m working on a book that is the beginning of a series. The demon series was written several years ago but wasn't publish quality. I’ve been rewriting it and I’m hoping to submit it to publishers this winter. The series is a look into three generations of demons with the patriarch being related to Satan himself. Awaken the Demon is about a young woman, running from an abusive relationship and into the arms of a demon. Little does she know, she too is a demon and Satan wants her soul.

5). Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

I hate research. LOL If I didn’t have to ever research anything I would be a happy woman. But that’s not possible so I plug through it.

6). Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

As I stated above, Nora Roberts was the one that encouraged me to seek publication for my own work. I love everything she has ever written especially her pseudonym, J.D. Robb’s In Death Series. I love the way she describes the scenes she writes. It makes me feel as if I was actually there. She has a way with writing that draws the reader in, makes them feel a part of her books. Her characters are real, have real quirks, problems and it’s that that allows the reader to connect with them.

7). When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I’ve always told stories. It was second nature to me. But it wasn't until 2005 when my hubby encouraged me to look into publishing houses did I consider it. Well…actually, he pushed me into it. LOL He contacted a local publisher and asked how I would go about getting published. They sent me a booklet with information and publishing houses that focused on Romance. The instant I received that book, I knew I wanted my stories published and read.

8). How long does it take you to write a book?

I have been known to pump out a book in three weeks. When inspiration hits, I’m helpless to my muse. With my previous publisher I was releasing a novel every two months so I had to write fast. LOL

9). What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

I tend to write when inspiration strikes. If that’s during the day, I’ll sit in my office for hours working. Often though, the inspiration strikes at night when the house is quiet and the darkness calls me to create.

10). Do you have any strange handwriting habits, like capitalizing all your “r”s or dotting your “I”s with heart (or anything like that)?
Well, you really had me thinking about this one. LOL I used to, when I was a teen, replace the ‘o’s in my words with smiley faces. But now, as an adult, I spend most of my time on the computer and not writing as much freehand that I’m afraid my handwriting has become rather messy.
11). What do you want to know about the future?
Nothing. I like the element of surprise. Besides, I’m too paranoid to look into the future. If I saw anything bad, I would probably obsess about it and then what fun would my life be if I did that. I like to live for the now and hope my future is sunny. J
12). Are you a morning person or a night person?
I would say I’m both, if that’s possible. LOL I find I do my best writing at night, but I rarely can stay up late anymore. Aging is hell. LOL I’m good from 9 am to about midnight.
13). Do you like thunderstorms?
I hate them with a passion! I have always been afraid of them. As a child I lived on a farm. Once summer night we had a nasty storm with winds strong enough to shake the house. Could have been a tornado, I’m not sure, but I remember being so terrified our house would be picked up and blown into the sun and we would all burn to death. I was eight, what do you expect. Since then, I’ve had a strong fear of storms.
14). What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email, myspace, twitter, etc?
I’m practically everywhere. The easiest way for readers to contact me is by email at shielas@shaw.ca
They can also stop by my wesbite for information on me and my books at www.shielasbooks.ca
My twitter address is : http://twitter.com/ShielaSue
facebook : http://www.facebook.com/shiela.stewart?ref=profile
15). Anything you would like to add?
I would like to say thank you for this wonderful interview and the opportunity to meet new readers.

Angela Addams' New Book is Being Released Today!

2009-10-23T14:19:00.000-07:00

1) First, could you start by telling us what you are currently working on for publication and/or about your current release?

My current release is entitled The Temptress and it is due to release on October 23 at Cobblestone Press.

The Temptress is a short story about a young college student named Kyle Roberts who finds himself deeply in lust with his English Literature professor. He can’t control his raging fantasies and obsesses over her to the extreme. She is constantly in his head, tormenting him with her seductive body. But is he really the one in control? Strange things start to happen, fantasies seeming to turn into reality and Kyle begins to wonder if his prof has a few secrets of her own.

She seems to know what he is thinking, desiring, and after a night of intense erotic fulfillment, leaves him more confused than before. Are his fantasies coming true or does his professor have the ability to control his mind? Kyle suddenly finds himself on a journey into a realm that he thought was only make-believe, the realm of a vampire temptress.

2) Tell us about your writing process. Do you outline or just start writing?

My writing process is not as well organized as I think it should be. I have great intentions to plot things out in detail but I get bored of that pretty quickly and just move on to the writing part. Usually, I get an idea and play it out in my head for a few days. Once I have a basic plot figured out I whip out my laptop and write it all down. For the most part it starts with a scene and goes from there. Sometimes this scene is the beginning and sometimes it’s something that happens somewhere else in the piece. I don’t usually write in sequence. I like the freedom to write the scenes that are urgently demanding escape from my brain. It keeps my fingers typing anyway. I’ve never suffered from writer’s block. (Is there a piece of wood around? I feel like I should knock on wood right about now.)

For a short story like The Temptress, I write the first draft over a few nights, two or three hours a night and then set it aside for a few days before starting my second draft. With my novels (I’ve written three) I write a basic outline of plot, where I want to start, climax, some key plot points, and where I want to finish and then I start writing. As I’m writing, I add to my plot notes along the way. Things usually change as I’m going through. I figure out that something isn’t going to work, or I have a brilliant idea that I want to add, so my outline is never set in stone.

3) What genre is your favorite to write? Read?

I like to write and read Paranormal anything…but I prefer if there are some hot erotic scenes worked in. Actually, it’s kind of embarrassing, but I find novels a little boring these days if they don’t have some passionate erotic scenes worked in.

4) Favorite authors?

My favorite authors are Kelley Armstrong, D.B. Reynolds, Kresley Cole, and Gena Showalter. Their heroines are super strong and can always take care of themselves, which I think is a great thing in paranormal literature. I also love the hot and steamy sex scenes that these women are so skilled at writing. They are all very talented at what they do.

5) Is there a genre you haven't written, but would love to tackle in the future?

6) What's planned next for your writing career?

I have just recently signed with an agent and am currently working on edits for my first paranormal, urban fantasy. So we should be submitting to publishers soon. I have four or five ideas rolling around in my head at the moment for novels, some work directly off of the novels my agent has and some are totally new series ideas that I have planned.

7) Do you work well with deadlines? Or do they stall your writing process?

I work extremely well with deadlines. I am very type A ; ) Actually, I prefer it because I’m not a procrastinator and work well if I know that there is a deadline at a certain time that I have to work towards. That way there is no excuse for slacking off, which at times I am tempted to do. I set weekly quotas for myself, that way I have a goal to reach every week. When I am off on holiday, I write 10K a week and when I’m working full time, (yes, I do have a day job) I scale that back to 5k a week.

8) When did you first start writing?

I first starting writing as a child…no seriously, I wrote my first collection of short stories, with pictures, at the age of six. I still have it actually. I don’t know where my need to write came from really. I always liked reading but I can’t explain how that turned into a passion for writing. My teachers picked up on it right away and always encouraged me. I had a great high school teacher who inspired me to pursue writing seriously…and then I went to university and, well, my writing took a backseat to everything else. I got some really nasty feedback that crushed my confidence and I put down my pen for almost five years. But that nagging urge to write, thankfully, never really left me and I picked up the pen again after I graduated and started thinking about bigger projects. It took me four years to write my first novel. It’s not the greatest but I did get some recognition for it in a contest and received some very positive and encouraging reviews. So, I tried again and again and again and here I am.

9) What influenced you to submit your work for publication?

I have a deep desire to become an author and write for a living. That desire motivates me more than anything else ever could. I want it, so I work for it. It hasn’t been easy and I know that I have a battle ahead of me, but I’m making progress and I will not give up.

10) Do you belong to a critique group? If so, how has this helped your writing, would you recommend it to others? If not, would you consider joining, if not, why do you like to work alone?

11) What is the best way for readers to contact you?

Readers can visit my website at angelaaddams.com

I tweet as angelaaddams and I also have a blog at http://www.blog.angelaaddams.com/

They can also contact me at angelaaddams@live.ca with any questions or comments. I’d be extremely happy to hear from any reader.

12) Any advice you want to give aspiring writers?

Yes, I do have advice…do not give up. Things seemed to happen for me all at once. I got a contract with Cobblestone Press and an offer from an agent after a little over a year of trying. I could have given up many, many times what with the amount of rejections I received, but I didn’t; I kept submitting. If you give up, you make room for someone else to take your place; do you really want that other person getting your shot at doing what you love and getting paid for it? Probably not. So shove the rejections aside and keep submitting, keep writing, because you’re the only one who this matters the most to.

Thanks, Angela, that's very encouraging to all of us who are hoping to be writers one day!

Please help us welcome Renee Lyons, author and Publisher of Lyrical Press

2009-10-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

1). Tell us your latest news?

Well, a lot of interesting things have happened since I finished Tempting Darkness, the third Templar Vampire book. My husband, Frank and I decided to open Lyrical Press, a commercial fiction publishing house. It was a huge decision and requires an extreme amount of work, but it’s so worth it. The moment we launched I knew it was right move on our part. I heard my mother in my head telling me “you are exactly where you need to be, doing exactly what you need to be doing”.

I am also working on the final installment of the Templar Vampire series. It’s titled Blood Covenant. It’s Tristan’s story. Once people realize it’s the last book they ask about Raphael and why he isn’t getting his own story. All I can say about that is, you’ll have to read Blood Covenant to learn why!

2). When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve been writing since I was roughly ten years old. It’s a compulsion. Although I love (and I mean *love*) Lyrical, there is always that part of me who was, and still is, a writer. Just when I think my creative well is dry, a new scene “pops” into my mind and forces me to write.

3). What books have most influenced your life most?

Just one book always jumps out at me when I think of which one influenced me most. Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follet. What a book! It’s so vivid I swear while reading, you forget your not actually in the medieval age. You get lost in the pages of that book.

4). What are your current projects?

Other than Blood Covenant, I am also (very slowly) working on another book. It’s untitled as of yet. It plays on the angel/demon mythology is a way I feel is pretty original. But then. most of my writing centers around religion in one shape or form. I guess that’s my way of trying to make sense of things in my own mind.

5). Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

I guess now would be finding the time to write since the majority of my days are spent running Lyrical Press. That, and trying to put unique spins on tried and true genres because what I write (vampire and demons) have been done zillions of times over.

6). Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Sherrilyn Kenyon is right up there as one of my favorite authors. She creates these amazing worlds with such rich characters. She makes you want to visit her world again and again.

Hannah Howell is another author who takes hold of you and doesn’t let you go. I just love her to pieces. Three words about Mrs. Howell’s books…medieval Scotland and vampires. Really now. Does any book need more than that other than being in the hands of a writer who can do that sort of story justice? Luckily for readers, Mrs. Howell is an awesome writer. She also happens to be a fantastic person. I met her during my first book signing and was reduced to a babbling idiot. I think I actually screamed “ohmygod! You’re Hannah Howell!” directly in her face. She just smiled, nodded and asked me to sign my book for her. When it comes to my writing career, was the single best moment to date – other than actually getting contracted!

7). When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Probably around when I started writing at ten. Creating worlds and characters just always made me happy. It was also something that came pretty natural for me, so in that, I know I was very lucky.

8). How long does it take you to write a book?

It used to take me no more than three months. Now, with Lyrical Press demanding most of my attention, it takes me much, much longer. I will probably take me about a year to finish Blood Covenant.

9). What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

Well, it’s pretty much fit it writing when I can at this point. I’m sure by next year things should settle into a more regulated schedule of writing and working the publishing house.

10). Do you have any strange handwriting habits, like capitalizing all your “r”s or dotting your “I”s with heart (or anything like that)?
I used to make an insanely fancy capital “I” until my mother pointed out it was illegible. Now, I really don’t have any strange habits other than having the most horrendous handwriting in creation. I don’t know if it’s from growing accustomed to using a keyboard all the time or because I have a slight muscular issue with my right arm. Whatever the case, I now scrawl rather than write in anything remotely decent.
11). What do you want to know about the future?
Without hesitation, what my daughter will grow up to be and if she will be happy doing it. Next would be where we’ll be living in five years because my husband and I want to relocate out of New York.
12). Are you a morning person or a night person?
I used to be a night person until my daughter was born. Now, I’m forced to be a morning person. I wake up almost every day at 6am, and am already working by 6:15.
13). Do you like thunderstorms?
When I’m inside, yes. That’s perfect “snuggle” weather. Getting caught out in one? Not so much.
14). What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email, myspace, twitter, etc?
At my Lyrical email address : publisher@lyricalpress.com.
15). Anything you would like to add?
Only that I’m thrilled you’ve allowed me this opportunity to talk with you. It was a genuine pleasure. Thank you!

Today We Greet Author Olivia Starke

2009-10-20T09:42:00.000-07:00

1). Tell us your latest news?

I am thrilled that my first release Mind Games is out at Cobblestone Press! It’s a paranormal Tryst (short story.)

www.cobblestone-press.com/catalog/books/mindgames.htm

2). When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve been writing since I could lift a crayon. I was very artistic in my toddler stage. Lucky for me we had a white house and I drew murals and what letters of the alphabet I could pen along the side of the house one day. I also did so on whatever wall surface I could, my folks (try as they might) couldn’t inhibit my creative spirit!

About a year ago I decided to leave the world of real estate behind (I was a realtor) and pick up my laptop to give writing a shot. Originally it was to rewrite a children’s book I wrote in 7^th grade involving a love story between a unicorn and Pegasus. I ran across an online class given by Lori Wilde about how to write romance. I’ve been a closet romance reader for years and love happily ever after endings. The class was great and I got the bug J and I’ve come out of the reading closet as well.

3). What books have most influenced your life most?

I can’t think of a particular one. I absolutely love the classics such as War and Peace and my favorite book is The Jungle by Upton Sinclair. The characters are living and breathing on the pages and I wish to become even a quarter of the writers they were.

4). What are your current projects?

I’m working on a series of vampire short stories.

5). Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Trying to get friends and family to understand IT’S A CAREER. I don’t sit around all day watching television! I spend about three hours as soon as I get up working on promoting my story and myself as an author. I fit in my other obligations for the day such as walking my four dogs, taking my disabled mother on her errands, caring for my 4 horses, etc. In the evenings I write. I have friends and family with 9-5 jobs who think I can pick up errands for them they don’t have time for, which I simply can’t do. It’s frustrating at times trying to set boundaries.

6). Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

The Jungle by Upton Sinclair and Heather Grahams works J She has a great knack of mixing mystery and romance.

7). Do you have any strange handwriting habits, like capitalizing all your “r”s or dotting your “I”s with heart (or anything like that)?
8). What do you want to know about the future?
How successful I’ll be! But I guess you’re as successful as you decide to be.
9). Are you a morning person or a night person?
Night person all the way, it’s the only time my brain functions to write. My creativity simple won’t flow in the mornings.
10). Do you like thunderstorms?
Happy little thunderstorms, yes. Tornadoes NO! I live in southern Missouri which is part of tornado ally, and it puts a damper on the thrill of spring and early summer.
11). What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email, myspace, twitter, etc?
I’d love to hear from readers and other authors !
www.oliviastarke.webs.com www.twitter.com/romancingthepen romancingthepentoday.blogspot.com oliviastarke@ymail.com I’m on Facebook as well look for Olivia Starke !
12). Anything you would like to add?
Anyone who has ever wanted to give writing a shot I encourage them to do so! There are so many opportunities out there now with e-publishers for writer’s just starting out. Also, I believe the world needs more Happily-Ever-After and romance always offers that J

Today's Special Guest is Barbara Edwards

2009-10-19T07:26:00.000-07:00

1) First, could you start by telling us about your current release?

Ancient Awakening is a paranormal romance. In Ancient Awakening, Police Officer ‘Mel’ Petersen investigates a death only she believes is murder. By disobeying direct orders from the Rhodes End Chief, she risks her career to follow clues that twist in circles to her backyard and lead the killer to her.

Her neighbor Stephen Zoriak is a prime suspect. Steve worked for a major pharmaceutical company where he discovered a weapon so dangerous he destroys the research. He is exposed to the dangerous organism. He suspects he is the killer and agrees to help her find the truth.

In the course of their investigation Mel and Steve find the real killer and a love that defies death.

2) Could you please tell us a little about yourself? I’m a native New Englander with a love for history, antique roses and travel. This past summer we visited Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Canyon, a trip I’ve dreamed about for a long time. My husband, a retired police sergeant, and I are restoring a Gothic Victorian built in 1872. Please don’t picture a mansion: its two bedrooms with a wonderful wraparound porch decorated with gingerbread.

3) Give us a sneak peak into your current release.

Excerpt from Ancient Awakening:

“Don’t touch me, Mel, not unless you’re willing to do a lot more,” he warned as her hazel eyes flared golden.

“Don’t threaten me, Steve. You’re…”

He pulled her into his arms despite the alarm bells clanging in his head.

Danger! Danger! Danger!

Her widened eyes met his. Mel’s hands were trapped against his chest, but she didn’t push him away. Instead, her fingers curled into his shirt.

Her mistake. His mistake was to crush her mouth under his.

Mel’s soft lips parted. Need exploded. The taste of black coffee didn’t hide her sweet flavor. As her tongue tangled with his, her arms slid around his neck and her fingers burrowed through his hair.

Steve hungered to peel the starched shirt off her soft shoulders, lay her on the thick turf and ease his desire. He tasted her brows, her cheek, along her throat, seeking the source of her call. Her pulse whipped under his mouth, awakening another need.

His teeth gently closed on the vulnerable vein.

He wanted, wanted, wanted…

Cold alarm chilled his pounding blood.

Steve gasped for air. He’d forgotten his own ironclad rule. Mel’s eyelids flittered open to reveal the molten glow of desire but he forced himself free.

He had no right to touch any woman. Not until he knew he hadn’t become what he had set out to destroy.

4) Tell us about your writing process. Do you outline or just start writing?

Like many writers I write without an outline. I do know the beginning and the end before I start. It’s how my mind works. I dream about the story and when I wake, immediately record the details. I have a file with all my proposed projects and a second folder full of research material for each one. Since Ancient Awakening is the first book in Finding Rhosdes End series, I also keep a detail bible.

5) What genre is your favorite to write? Read? As you can tell by my website, I’ve written historical romance and romantic suspense before paranormal romance, but I think I’ve found my niche. I love creating all the haunting details and dark secrets. I read almost everything when I have time.

6) Favorite authors? I love Jayne Anne Krentz, JD Robb, Linda Howard, Anne Stuart, Elizabeth Lowell, I don’t hink this is long enough to list them all.

7) Is there a genre you haven't written, but would love to tackle in the future?

Not any more. I really like what I’m doing with this series. I might go back and write more historical romance if an idea really grabs me.

8) What's planned next for your writing career? I’m working on the second book in the Finding Rhodes End series, although that makes it sound too simple. I also have the third and fourth in the works. All are set in New England, all centered in Rhodes End.

9) Do you work well with deadlines? Or do they stall your writing process?

I love deadlines since I tend to fritter time away if I’m not under pressure. They keep me sharp and focused.

10) When did you first start writing? I don’t remember. I had a diary when I was young, wrote lots of stuff I later threw away as worthless, then tried poetry, essays, and finally books. I still have my poetry. Every once in awhile I think about posting it to my blog.

http://barbaraedwards.net/blog/blog.asp

11) What influenced you to submit your work for publication?

I always wanted to tell my stories to people. The only way to do that is to publish. When I joined RWA, I thought I’d get published within a few months. I realized I didn’t know enough and set out to learn. You need to be tenacious to finish a book that someone else will take a chance on.

12) What gets you in the writing mood? Music, reading, etc.

Nothing. I either am or not. Despite that, I write every day. It’s too easy to say I don’t have it today. Then time passes and nothing gets written. Some of my most productive days are when I didn’t ‘feel’ like writing.

13) Do you belong to a critique group? If so, how has this helped your writing, would you recommend it to others? If not, would you consider joining, if not, why do you like to work alone?

I had a critique group when I lived in Florida (Connie and Tina, I love you both) but haven’t found anyone to replace them since I moved back to New England. I think Its really important to find the right kind of critique group. Without them, I wouldn’t have finished that first book I published.

14) What is the best way for readers to contact you?

My website www.barbaraedwards.net or my blog http://barbaraedwards.net/blog/blog.asp

15) Any advice you want to give aspiring writers?

The only way to become published is to write. Find what works for you, write what you love and don’t give up.

I have a personal story about quitting. Several years ago, I went through a very dry spell: nothing worked, I didn’t sell, I had personal problems, all in all a discouraging time. I decided I couldn’t do this any more. That day I was puzzled when I received a rejection letter. I looked at the return address and couldn’t remember sending out a submission. To my surprise it was something I’d submitted TWO years before. I started to laugh and realized it didn’t make any difference who bought my work. I can’t quit. I am a writer, its who I am as well as what I do.

Saturday's Author is Dena Celeste

2009-10-16T22:30:00.000-07:00

1). Tell us your latest news?

My latest news is that my book Her Master’s Gift was just released by Noble Romance Publishing! I’m very excited because this is my very first published book, and it’s been a beautiful experience.

2). When and why did you begin writing?

Oh, I’ve been writing ever since I was a wee little thing. Mostly essays and poetry, though I did write quite a bit of fanfiction as a teenager. Then I decided to branch out into original fiction, and I’ve been doing that for the last 6 years, give or take.

3). What books have most influenced your life?

Hm. Well, Secret Submissive by Diane Hunter really got me connected with the BDSM Lifestyle and how it’s expressed first. It was my first book on that subject matter, and there was an instant connection.

Kushiel’s Dart by Jacqueline Carey is the first gift my boyfriend ever gave me, and a lot of the philosophy and even religious overtones (a mix between Judaism, Christianity and Paganism) is something that resonates with me.

Natural Law by Joey W. Hill is the first book I ever read with a female dominant and a male submissive that held my attention and my emotions. She writes so beautifully that I was determined to write in a way that was relatable emotionally.

Those books set me on the path I’m on now, in my writing and my life. It helps to have such awesome authors to look up to!

4). What are your current projects?

The one I’m working on right this minute is a holiday sweet for a submission call Noble Romance has out. Then I have another BDSM story that I’m revising for another publisher, and a paranormal erotic romance that I work on whenever I get the chance. It’s a very fascinating story, and I can’t wait to see where it goes!

5). Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

There’s the time factor, of course. I find that mostly I write at night, after I make sure everyone else is settled in. My mind is also more open at night.

But as far as challenges…I don’t get a lot of ideas, one right after the other. So when I do, I’m so glad, but then the process of fleshing out what I see in my head is also challenging.

I want to branch out in my writing, in the genres I write in as well as in genres I haven’t tried before! Every so often the words will flow right out of me, but mostly I have to pull it out with the proverbial wrench.

6). Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Oh no, I have to pick one? That’s hard! It depends on what mood I’m in and what genre I feel puckish for.

At the moment, I would have to say Jacqueline Carey. Her stories are so intricate and lovely, and yet each one is so unique…I would love to be able to write like that! As it is, she’s a pleasure to read and I get very involved with her characters. Especially in her Kushiel’s Legacy series, though I was pleasantly surprised by her new book Santa Olivia.

7). When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

From the moment I could write, I would write something, anything. Cards, stories, essays, poetry. I just love to write. It’s not always easy, but I find it much easier to express myself through the written word than any other way. I also like to explore my own thoughts and philosophies that way. My books are ways for me to explain how I see, feel, and experience certain things.

Writing has always helped me to understand myself and how I have grown and changed. It’s a mental and emotional journey with each story, whether it’s sweet and tender, or hot and heavy with bondage included. Exploring pain, pleasure and psychology are also interests of mine. The way people interact, why people do what they do…well. It’s fascinating!

8). How long does it take you to write a book?

Oh, that depends entirely! If my muse is cooperating, if I have a deadline, if it’s a short or long story, how complicated the plot and/or characters are. And if my mood will let me finish!

My first completed story I finished in about 3 months. My second, I had started 3 years previously, abandoned it for awhile and then finished in a couple of months. The story that was released from Noble Romance took me about a month to finish. But I’ve been working on some of my current projects for almost a year now!

9). What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

I am a caregiver, full-time, so my day is pretty full quite often. I have to take care of my responsibilities before I take time for myself. Usually I will write at night, like I mentioned before. Or I’ll write if I get a day that’s less stressful and hectic!

And when I’m in college (I’m working on a Bachelor’s degree in the Spring), I usually go full-time there as well. So I’ll write in between classes, or after I get any homework done. It’s a lot of work, but I would write no matter what else I did.

10). Do you have any strange handwriting habits, like capitalizing all your “r”s or dotting your “I”s with heart (or anything like that)?
I don’t think so. And I don’t write longhand unless I’m researching or outlining away from my computer. I have a very…odd style of outlining. It’s a mix of freewriting and making powerpoint cards by hand, LOL. I use bullet points, and try to organize what I can if my story is very complicated. But if it’s a simple story, I won’t go as crazy.
11). What do you want to know about the future?
I want to know that everything will be okay. I know that there are no guarantees in life though, and it’s what I make of it. I just want…to be happy.
12). Are you a morning person or a night person?
I’m a night owl! Apparently, I’ve been this way since before I was born (my mother still tells me how I kept her up all hours of the night), but the night time is…dark. That helps! The sun hurts my eyes, so I’m not very fond of the daytime. It’s also a very peaceful, quiet time for me, and the time when I can communicate best.
13). Do you like thunderstorms?
That depends! I’m afraid of loud, surprising noises, so the kind of thunder that sounds like a baseball bat hitting one out of the park…scares the crap out of me. But if it’s just the sound of rain and gentle thunder, I love it!
14). What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email, myspace, twitter, etc?
They can reach me by the contact form on my website, but also please feel free to connect with me on Facebook and Twitter ! I check my inbox and my FB and Twitter feeds every day, and I love hearing from people and making new friends!
http://www.denaceleste.com
http://www.twitter.com/denaceleste
http://www.facebook.com/denaceleste
http://www.myspace.com/denaceleste
15). Anything you would like to add?
Just that I hope people like my book, and keep on reading!

Today we are pleased to welcome J. Hali Steele

2009-10-14T18:07:00.001-07:00

Mistress Bella, I’d like to thank you for taking time to talk with me.

1) First, could you start by telling us what you are currently working on for publication and/or about your current release?

On October 16^th, A Panther’s Flight will be available from Eirelander Publishing and I can’t wait for readers to get to know Leron and Edy. Writing their story was a joy. I have a few things in the works that will be premiering soon. One story is about amateur ballroom dancing and I’m working on a series about erotic angels of which the first book released on October 9th. It will probably cause a bit of a stir. The cover art done by Les Byerly at Ellora’s Cave may get me booted from Facebook, MySpace, heck – everywhere but my own website where it holds center stage right now…*laughing* Oh, go ahead – take a peek: www.angelsinlove.net

2) Could you please tell us a little about yourself?

Well, I live in SE Pennsylvania which is far too cold for me. I want to move back to southern California where they have basically one season – HOT! Southwest Arizona might work also, as long as I’m warm all the time. I have a son and 4 cats and I’ve spoiled them all. My son’s 36 and would laugh at that. I used to do quarter mile drag racing and I still enjoy going to watch my son and his dad race on the weekends. I’m waiting for one of them to put my butt back in the driver’s seat.

As a child, I wanted to be a veterinarian. Readers should be able to tell from my stories that cats are like little angels to me and I think they make the best pets. I enjoy watching them grow and play. In my neighborhood, I’m the one who does the rescuing. I nearly always have what I call “porch kitties”, and they live well until I find them a loving home. All animals have always held a special place in my heart and I’m a supporter of my local SPCA. Spay and neuter!

3) Give us a sneak peak into your current release

Leron, the hero of A Panther’s Flight, is Sovereign Kind, which is the warrior class of the Kind species of big cats infected with vampyre blood. He’s a panther who’s afraid he may take too much blood and become a feared transgressor. Those are the cats that turn violent and deadly, draining their prey of blood, then gorging on the flesh. This happened to someone close to him. Now that he’s met his mate, Edy, who’s close to her first change to panther, he fears this addiction will overcome him. Stranded together in the desert, they have to battle nature and a really bad secret he’s kept from her that may destroy their budding relationship. Hey not sure you can use it but I’ve done a video for the book, it’s here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ux9jEeNlgIY

4) Tell us about your writing process. Do you outline or just start writing?

I start with an outline that I usually end up using as the synopsis. It hits all the points of the story and I start writing from there. I’m pretty much a panster, and once I began the story my characters have a way of taking over. Sometimes I can stop them, but they’re wily creatures and have backed me into a corner on many occasions. *grins*

5) What genre is your favorite to write? Read?

Definitely paranormal, and preferably erotic. I enjoy the twists and turns that take place when dealing with the paranormal genre. You can practically take it anywhere. I like to push the limits of the worlds I create. I also enjoy a good dose of humor laced in as well. And, of course, there’s the sex. Exploring that side of any relationship is a bonus for me because I like watching how my characters deal with each other emotionally once they’ve already been together physically.

6) Favorite authors?

That would be Kerrelyn Sparks and Lynsay Sands. Both have a way of making their characters come to life. I laugh from beginning to end with their books. There characters are sexy, charming, and funny; still, they can be deadly as hell. I like how they’ve both have changed the landscape for the ‘undead’. When I start one of their stories I know I’m not going to get a darn thing done until I reach the last word on the last page.

7) Is there a genre you haven't written, but would love to tackle in the future?

No. I write erotica in the three genres that are the most exciting to me and don’t see that changing. I’ve written paranormal, contemporary and I’ve done a ménage, which I’d like to do more of. I can’t foresee that I’d write in any of the other genres. I’m not a Sci-Fi fan and the same goes with Historical and BDSM. Even when they have paranormal elements, they just don’t excite the part of my brain that says “write me”. I do love a good suspense but I don’t have what it takes to tackle that genre.

8) What's planned next for your writing career?

I know most people are aiming for New York – I’m not. I’m perfectly happy writing for epubs and I’ve been very lucky to be with 3 good publishers. My editors have all been fantastic and each has taught me so much. Down the road, if I change my mind and decide to try for NY – my editors have prepared me.

9) Do you work well with deadlines? Or do they stall your writing process?

I had an editor ask me for a follow up story in June that they wanted to release in August and I got it done. I guess I don’t sweat deadlines. *laughing* None have had to send an email asking where are my edits or rewrites – at least not yet! No, deadlines don’t bother me.

10) What influenced you to submit your work for publication?

My awesome sisters! I tell everyone they are my heroines and each, in fact, appears in my works. Don’t tell them that LOL. No, they’re fine with it, even begged to have their names somewhere in a story. They’ve read everything I write and always told me to try for publication and finally – I listened. I have to thank them for pushing me and for supporting me 100%.

11) What gets you in the writing mood? Music, reading, etc.

Music can do it every time. I listen to Soundscapes – I know, weird – but I like the sounds of nature and instruments and prefer there be no words, which are very distracting to me. I am a big fan, however, of the ladies who sing blues when I’m relaxing. Nina Simone and Sarah Vaughan are my favs. Whenever I write sex scenes, I pull out the tango CDs. There’s just something about the rhythmic Latin sound that moves me.

12) What is the best way for readers to contact you?

I have a website: www.jhalisteele.com I blog every Friday at www.paranormalromantics.blogspot.com and I blog the 6^th of each month at www.trampyvamps.blogspot.com. I also have a Yahoo Group that I’d love readers to join and they’re welcome to participate in my writing madness- it’s http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jhalisteele and I do Facebook at www.facebook.com/purpleprose as well as Twitter with the name sovereignkind.

I’ve really had a good time and thanks again for having me.

Thanks for joining us today!

Welcome Liena Ferror

2009-10-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

First, could you start by telling us what you are currently working on for publication and/or about your current release?

Right now I am working on the third story in The Risen series. A story about a vampire warrior and his peace-loving demon healer/drakon or dragon mate. Their love will be tested as they struggle to find a balance between literally between life and death. Nico is also a bit of a hard ass and finds it a little unbelievable that he is even mated at all. Terra can believe she’s mated but not to a warrior, even an Alliance member, warriors sworn to protect vampire and lycan kind from renegades of the same species.

Could you please tell us a little about yourself?

I’m from South Central Pennsylvania. I live with my husband and daughter. I have a son who is currently serving in the U.S. Navy.

I grew up amongst a family of readers. My mother and father instilled a love of reading and all things written into my brother and me. In my adult years, I found myself working as a data analyst and once again discovered my love of reading. I began to frequent the library more than once a week. My husband went to so far as to hang a hammock in the spare bedroom so I could have a comfortable place to read.

When I’m not writing, I’m reading or on occasion, I’ll make jewelry. Otherwise, I’m hanging with my family.

Give us a sneak peak into your current release.

Queen of the Ghost Drakon is the first in The Risen Series. The Risen are females who are born as drakon, or dragon, and either lycan, vampire, fae, or demon hybrids.

Here is the blurb for Queen of the Ghost Drakon.

A vampire’s ultimate fatal attraction is the essence of a ghost…

Innocent to the paranormal world and innocent to the world of men, Keara McCabe finds herself caught in a century's old battle between renegade vampires and lycans after witnessing the murder of her friend at the fangs of an immortal bloodsucker. On the other hand, the vampire barely sips her blood and dies. From that moment forward, she becomes wanted dead or alive. The vampires want her destroyed for the danger she is, the lycans want her as a weapon against all vampires.

Lycan Gannon Langon vows to protect her from both her enemies. But its in her arms that he finds innocence and fire, tentativeness and passion. As their desire ignites, the enemy implements a deadly plan.

Will Keara and Gannon survive to explore their new love together or will that love be destroyed?

Tell us about your writing process. Do you outline or just start writing?

I do what I consider a soft outline. I have notebooks that I use for all my works. When an idea strikes me for an addition to a story or a story in general, I jot it down. I also do my character outlines in my notebooks as well. It is sometimes easier for me if I hit a block of sorts to jot ideas down. That usually helps me get beyond whatever is holding me up. I guess you could say I’m just a notebook person. I start with a general plan and try to stick to it but often I let the story take me where it wants.

What genre is your favorite to write? Read?

Romance is my favorite genre to both read and write. I love stories with happily ever afters and romance has them. My favorite sub-genre would be paranormal, without a doubt. I have always been fascinated by the “creatures of the night” as well as mythological creatures, anything existing beyond human reality. It was natural that paranormal would become my favorite genre. Contemporary and suspense, romance included, would be a close second.

Favorite authors?

I like Christine Feehan, Sherrilyn Kenyon, and JR Ward amongst the paranormal authors. Nora Roberts/JD Robb is my favorite contemporary romance author. I also like a good action adventure book and Clive Cussler is my favorite author in that genre. My bookshelves are crammed with books by too many authors to really list. All of which I would read another of their works.

When did you first start writing?

I seriously starting writing about two and a half years ago. My husband and biggest supporter, had told me I read so much that I could probably write a book. After many starts and stops I finished my first manuscript and though it wasn’t contracted by any publisher I submitted it too, it started me down the road of writing. Until his comment, I never imagined myself as a writer though I had the imagination for it. Or should I say overactive imagination? LOL. I find it amazing what a single comment can lead.

What influenced you to submit your work for publication?

Again, my husband. He never doubted my abilities as a writer and that gave me the courage to submit my work to publishers. I researched a multitude of publishers, jotting down notes about each. I submitted my first work which was rejected multiple times but I decided to write a paranormal erotic romance. When I was confident my story was the best I could make it, I submitted it to Eirelander Publishing. It’s due for release in November and the second in the series is due for release in April of 2010.

Do you belong to a critique group? If so, how has this helped your writing, would you recommend it to others? If not, would you consider joining, if not, why do you like to work alone?

I do not belong to a group but do have a critique partner. I prefer to work on a one on one basis. My partner is wonderful. She keeps me on the straight and narrow and isn’t afraid to tell me when I mess something up. That is what critiquing is about. I would certainly not be against joining a critique group though as long as those in the group were honest about my writing. Your partner or group should be your biggest support yet your biggest critic. Your story will be all the better.

What is the best way for readers to contact you?

I can be contacted a couple of different ways listed below:

www.lienaferror.webs.com

www.lienaferror.blogspot.com

www.facebook.com/liena.ferror

www.myspace.com/lienaferror

Any advice you want to give aspiring writers?

First is to love what you do. You have to feel like writing is a pleasure and not a chore. Learn to balance all the loves of your life such as family along with your writing and you’ll feel fulfilled.

Second, find a good critique partner or group. People who aren’t afraid to tell you when you went off the tracks and offer you advice on how to get back on them. Honesty creates the best stories.

Today's Author is our own Margie Church

2009-10-07T10:00:00.000-07:00

1). Care to share a short bio with us?

I’m a native Minnesotan and wouldn’t have it any other way! I’ve been married to the same nice guy for 27 years and we have two great sons.

I’ve been a professional writer for 30 years, working mostly in corporate marketing communications departments. For the past 13 years, I’ve written and edited magazines and books. I freelance feature articles. My first novel, Awakening Allaire, came out in August from Class Act Books and the sequel comes out November 1. I have a children’s book coming out this spring from Guardian Angel Publishing.

In my spare time, I volunteer at church and for the local gun club…hum something strange about that combo, I think. I love to garden and raise roses. I enjoy nighttime winter walks with my pooch, Jewel, to see the Christmas lights. I love to swim and ride my bike with the boys. I have a great sense of humor and love to laugh.

2). Can you tell us about your latest release and/or past releases?

Awakening Allaire is the first in a series. It’s a sexy, romantic thriller about Allaire West and the very thud-worthy, Devon Mercer. The two meet while arguing with the Stanfield City Council about a new commercial development property. Allie takes an immediate dislike to the handsome Brit with the impeccable manners. Since this is a romance, the two, of course fall in love. Allie’s marriage is ruined because of it and eventually she agrees to live with Devon for the sake of the twins she conceived during their night of forbidden passion.

However just when things are coming together for our couple, Allaire is kidnapped. Two drug-crazed, ex-cons hide her away while they drain the Mercer coffers of $2 million dollars. Despair and drug addiction take over Allaire’s life while she’s in captivity. When her kidnappers leave her for dead, things become very dire. Devon is frantic to find her and is taking care of their twins and trying to hold their life together. Every lead comes up empty but he won’t give up.

3). Tell us about the heroine and hero of the above books.

Allaire is a cop’s daughter. Her mom died when she was quite young and she has no siblings. Her Grandmother Helene is important to her, as is her father. She’s independent and feisty. Despite her relationship with one of the wealthiest guys in Stanfield (Devon), she’s a working mother. Getting back to her children fuels her desire to live when there’s no hope left. She’s beautiful, funny, and loves Devon with every breath - at least once she stopped being so darn stubborn.

Devon is from London. He’s an Oxford-degreed barrister who comes to

America

to work in his father’s firm as part of his legal counsel. He’s tall - 6-feet 4-inches, has dark, wavy hair, very athletic build, and hazel eyes. His heart is so fragile in Allaire’s hands and she rakes it through the coals but he won’t give up on their love. He, too, has a great sense of humor and is a wonderful father despite being at the top of Stanfield’s “Most Eligible Bachelor” list. There are some really funny exchanges between Devon and his children in Awakening Allaire and Avenging Allaire.

4). What inspired this story?

It started with a one-sentence challenge and a maximum word target of 30,000 in a blind fiction contest. Most of my work has been under 10 pages and I was terrified of writing it poorly, especially since the piece would be published on the Internet. Regardless, I dove in and took second place in the contest. When I finished the piece, I realized I only told half the story and that it was really good. I finished it and that became “Awakening Allaire.”

5). What can we expect from you regarding your future writing?

The sequel, Avenging Allaire, is filled with what I like best in books: SASS: Suspense, Angst, Seductive Sizzle. There were a number of unanswered questions and issues in “Awakening Allaire.” “Avenging Allaire” divulges who was behind Allaire’s kidnapping, where the ransom went, and who is behind all those murders. And by the way, all their problems haven’t cooled the romance between Devon and Allaire one bit. They are still very much in love. The subplots are very interesting. It’s a fast-paced book I think will appeal to men and women.

My children’s book entitled, “First Spring,” will be released this spring from Guardian Angels Publishing. I wrote this rhyming story for one of my children after I watched him experience his first spring after a long, cold, Minnesota winter. I can’t wait to see it illustrated and it’ll be a delightful bedtime story for babies and toddlers.

I’m deep into writing a romantic paranormal. The working title is “Love Bites.” It is the story of a rakishly handsome vampire named Wade Kairos, and an independent businesswoman named Jui Fabrice. There is instant chemistry between these two, but Wade resists being with Jui with everything he’s got. His angst over wanting her but needing to stay away from her is tremendous. A life as a vampire is not something he wants to offer the vibrant American, who by the way, has no idea what he is. Wade takes his frustrations out in some very unique and vivid ways. Jui’s suspicions mount as they keep bumping into each other in the most peculiar places. After spending a sizzling night in each other’s arms Wade leaves her, saying distance means nothing to the soul. However Jui is determined to find out what Wade Kairos’ secret really is.

After I’m finished with Love Bites, I am starting a children’s series.

5). Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

I want my readers to keep turning the pages, so making the plot clever and engaging to the very last word is important to me. I want the reader to feel present in the story like a witness.

6). Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

On the romance side, I’ve always loved Kathleen Woodwiess. I used to devour her books and so many others like hers. They were so vivid and tugged at my heart. She knew how to write longing! I wish Kathleen was still among us.

These days, if I have time to read published work, it’s likely to be John Sanford. Lucas Davenport is a tenacious detective, gruff and smart. I love Davenport’s tender heart he buries so deeply, but every now and then he puts himself out there. Sanford is so good at providing just enough information so you feel like you’re solving the murder right along with Davenport. I also like that Sanford is from the Twin Cities and I know where many of these places are in the books.

7). When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I was first published by McCall’s Magazine in the 6^th grade. I used to be a disk jockey in high school, and the allure of media always called to me. So, I got into news writing and editing in college and from there worked through corporate ranks in marketing communications roles. Except for choosing my major, I’m not sure I consciously chose to be a writer. I learned quickly, however, that I loved it and have been a professional writer for about 30 years.

8). How long does it take you to write a book?

That depends on how much real life gets in the way! It seems to take me about six months from start to finish. I do set completion dates for my work.

9). What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

I also write features for magazines so I do this full time. I usually sign on around 6:30 a.m. and work until lunch. I take an hour break and then write until around 3:00 when the kids come home from school and need attention and homework help. It’s not uncommon to find me working 12-hour days.

10). Do you have any strange handwriting habits, like capitalizing all your “r”s or dotting your “I”s with heart (or anything like that)?
I changed the script M in my signature.
11). What do you want to know about the future?
When I draw my first breath in eternal life, I want to know if God will say, “Well done, my child.”
12). Are you a morning person or a night person?
Morning. Huge coffee cup in hand, but brain is firing on all cylinders.
13). Do you like thunderstorms?
No, I don’t like loud noises and we live in a “tornado alley” so thunderstorms frequently bring damage.
14). What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email, myspace, twitter, etc?
Website : www.site.romancewithsass.com
Blog : http://blog.romancewithsass.com
Facebook : www.facebook.com/margie.church
Twitter : MargaretRChurch
Email : margie_church@yahoo.com
15). Anything you would like to add?
Thank you so much, Bella, for providing this forum for authors. It is incredibly valuable to us. Promoting our books is very time consuming but necessary and to have such a friendly, open forum to do so is a real pleasure.

Please Welcome Dawne' Dominique

2009-10-05T20:19:00.001-07:00

1). Tell us your latest news?

Well, first, I’d like to thank you so much for inviting me here today. And as I love to share happy news, Purple Sword Publications has just released the long awaited first novel to my new vampire series called The First.

Eden’s Hell (I:The First) chronicles the origins of how and why vampires first came into existence. It is an erotic paranormal romance with biblical twists of fact and fiction, and a brooding, hunky vampire once known as Adam (yes, “the Adam”).

2). When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing to keep sane. I’m a very artistic person, and I’ve always needed an outlet to let that creativeness flow. When I was a teenager, I wrote to escape. Not that I had an unhappy childhood, but my life wasn’t what one would call exactly “normal”, either. My grade twelve English teacher promoted me to continue to explore my talent. I didn’t know I had any, but she nurtured and guided me in that one year. She was the epitome of that “certain teacher” who plays a very important role on a lost, young mind. I don’t know where I’d be today without her. I’ve never forgotten Mrs. Ramsden, and not a day goes by that I don’t wonder where she is or how she’s doing.

3). What books have most influenced your life most?

Hands down: J.R. Tolkien and Anne Rice. My husband introduced me to the majestic fantasy author of Lord of the Rings when I was about sixteen. I had started writing several fantasy novels, but never finished one. Anne Rice came several years later, after our daughter was born, and I had already established a career. Funny how some things are put to the wayside to make room for “real life”. When I had finished reading all of Ms. Rice’s vampire novels, I wondered whether I could write a paranormal just as eloquently. The challenge was there, and anyone who knows me will tell you that I do love a challenge. I have always loved the darkness where vampires and werewolves dwell, and they all encompass magic, so my transition to paranormal from fantasy was very natural.

4). What are your current projects?

For me, there’s always a couple of novels in works. French Odessa is a new erotic paranormal novel I’m currently working on. It’s set in Amsterdam.

I’m also working on Nightstalker, the final novel in The First series. Currently at about at 40k, in hindsight, I suspect this one will be a far larger novel than the other four in the series. It begins with Zane Black, and like all the other vampires

in this series, his bloodline is rather unique. Nightstalker will bring “all” my vampire characters from The First series to a climatic finale.

5). Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

For me, the most challenging aspect of writing is the “erotic” scenes. Don’t get me wrong…I can write them, but it’s just that I antagonize too much over placement of body parts, movement, sensations, emotions…and the list goes on. I will edit and revise those specific sections so many times that I can’t bear to read them anymore.

6). Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

That would be Anne Rice. When I first read her, I was awed by her poetic style of writing and the way her vampires were creatures of beauty instead of horror. I embraced them all and wanted more.

An important fact that you should know about me is that I have read only one of Ms. Kenyon’s vampire novels, and all of Anne Rice’s witches and vamps, but since I began writing paranormal, I don’t read other “vampire” authors for the simple reason that I do not want to be influenced by them. I’ve never read Twilight, yet I own the movie. There are two lines in there that I thought I had brilliantly created myself. Apparently not. : ) My vampires are creatures of the night with bloody traits, but they are also unique, powerful individuals. Vamps and werewolves were the only scary movies I could watch without needing valium. *snickers*

7). When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Third grade, when my picture storybook was displayed in the front of the class by the teacher, who was so impressed by my drawings and writing skills. Praise was not something I received a lot of, so it left an indelible mark on me.

8). How long does it take you to write a book?

It depends entirely on the amount of research I must conduct. Readers aren’t stupid, and for me to write about places, events, different cultures, etc., I have to know what I’m writing about. In the end, I love it, because I’m guaranteed to learn something new, but it’s very time consuming.

With Eden’s Hell, the research was long and convoluted. Finding biblical information about Lillith, Adam’s first wife, and what happened to her after she was cast out of Eden, was a daunting task. Some religions recognize her, while others don’t even acknowledge her existence, let alone her being Adam’s first wife, but rather, the first woman God created. Then to condense all the

information and twist it into my own version that was plausible, and then write about it, took almost six to seven months to complete. The second novel, Dark Diary (II: The First) was completed in less than two months. Every book I write varies.

9). What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

My work schedule consists of editing, cover art, and writing. *grins* Three years ago, I quit a lucrative paralegal career to concentrate full time on my writing. I had joined a writing forum about five years prior, so when the physical and mental stress of my job got to a point where it was detrimental to my health, I knew it was time for a change. With my husband’s encouragement, I honed my writing skills by learning all I could. I also managed to finish my first epic fantasy novel in that time, which turned out to be about 140k. The biggest challenge was learning American grammar. I’m Canadian, and our rules differ. Grammar was always a strong aspect in my writing because of the drafting of legal documents and whatnot I had to prepare in the course of my job, but if I was to reach a broader audience with my writing, I had to go American.

For me, a typical day starts out at around 8:00 a.m. I wake with hubby and after he leaves for work, with my coffee in hand, I venture downstairs to my dungeon to check and reply to emails. This is time consuming because I’m also a managing editor for two publishers, and a cover artist for three more. The majority of my day work consists of these two aspects; however, the night is my time to write—after hubby goes to bed.

10). Do you have any strange handwriting habits, like capitalizing all your “r”s or dotting your “I”s with heart (or anything like that)?
Oh, it’s confession time, is it? : ) My idiosyncrasy is that I tend to miss words when I write; simple ones like “the” or “a”. My fingers don’t catch up with my brain, and I don’t understand it because I can type anywhere from 80 to 90 words a minute. But I guess that after reading my own work more than twenty times, my brain just sees the word there. Strange, this doesn’t happen when I edit other people. So when I’m editing my own work, I have to read aloud to ensure I’ve caught those little nasties. Thus, the reason I do this “after” hubby goes to bed.
11). What do you want to know about the future?
Seriously, I don’t want to know anything about the future. I’ve never had my tea leaves read, nor have I ever touched an Ouija board or have had my Tarot cards read. My twin sister is forty-five minutes older than I am, and I have a rather unique connection with her, like with some twins, yet she doesn’t with me. I can tell if she’s in pain, if she’s worried or sick. I can also sense other things, like which elevator will open first, or I know who’s on the phone without looking… little things like that. But there’s something very scary and dark in me that I don’t go

near. I know this sounds so melodramatic, but I never ignore my instincts. My premonitions aren’t usually good news, so I stay away from anything remotely connected with those kinds of things. Suffice it to say that I don’t tempt fate. and I prefer to keep every day a surprise.
12). Are you a morning person or a night person?
Ohhh, definitely a night person. Especially the week leading up to the full moon. I have been nicknamed a wereauthor. Gees, this is Confessional Corner! LOL!
13). Do you like thunderstorms?
I absolutely ADORE thunderstorms. Where I live on the flat prairie plains, there is nothing but wide open space behind our home, so when a storm blows in, it’s magnificent. There’s so much power in the air, and you can smell the coming rain, but the light show that follows is what I wait for. I’m rendered speechless by their vicious beauty. I also moon tan. : )
14). What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email, Myspace, Twitter, etc?
I love hearing from readers and other authors, so please drop me a line to say hello. I do have a webpage, a MySpace page, and blog (which I haven’t been too diligent in updating these days). *cringes* Just not enough hours in a day. *sigh* But if anyone would like know more about me or say hello, please feel free to visit me:

http://www.dawnedominique.com

http://myspace.com/dawnebooks

http://dawnedominique.blogspot.com

Or you can visit one of my publishers at :

www.purplesword.com

www.loveyoudivine.com

www.amirapress.com

15). Anything you would like to add?
Well, I don’t have to go confession for a while. *LOL* But, yes, I would just like to say thank to Mistress Bella’s Reviews for having me here today. It was such a pleasure.
Live, Love and Laugh!
Dawné Dominique

Today's Featured Author is Aasiyah Qamar

2009-10-01T22:56:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. Please allow me to say thanks for featuring my interview here today. It’s a great honor and a wonderful pleasure for me to be here.

1. First, could you start by telling us about your current release?

Of course! My novel Light My World will be released tomorrow October 2 as a debut release of Eirelander Publishing (I’m a ball of nerves and terribly excited!). The story is a contemporary multicultural romance that takes place on the island of Mauritius in the southern Indian Ocean, and features cultural aspects of Anglo-Indian and Indo-Mauritian origin. Let me give you the blurb then I’ll tell you more about the characters and the story.

Light My World

Life's good until it throws you the one curve you never wanted or expected

When vivacious Diya chose life in the fast track, giving in to her mother's antiquated morals was never a choice. Hearth, home and children weren't a part of her plan for the short-term, even if she’d love to find her Mr. Right.

Widower Trent Garrison has already been there and done that, and has no plan to go down that road again. He has to ride the straight and steady for the sake of his sons, and nothing will divert him.

Neither can afford a U-turn. But they can't dodge it either.

Diya is of Indo-Mauritian origin, a third generation Indian when you consider how Indians came to the island under British rule between 1838 and the late 1880s to work in cane fields as indentured labor after the abolition of slavery. To this day, the Indian descendants keep their traditions and ties to their roots alive, all while their identity has evolved to include the Mauritian identity too. Yet, in this era of the 21st century, identity often means something else for the youth – it means being part of the globalised culture where roots and tradition are shackles of the past. But for this same youth, how can you shed this identity that’s been your kind’s for more than a century, and become part of something that is only now in its hatching stage?
This is the dilemma Diya faces, and the story treats this in light of a universal ‘problem’ and issue for young women of today – finding love and Mr. Right.
This Mr. Right, Trent, when Diya meets him, is Mr. Absolutely Wrong, and for Trent too, Diya not at all Miss. Perfect – she is more like Miss. Pain-in-the-neck.
On this backdrop of the perception of the ‘perfect someone’ for each one of us, Light My World takes the reader on the chaotic ups and downs of the lives of this unlikely pair.

2. Could you please tell us a little about yourself?

Sure! I’m married and a stay-at-home mom, with an absolutely angelic little devil, and I’m stepmom to an older little devil too! Like my heroine Diya, I too am of Indian descent, born and raised on this little tropical island that looks like a slice of paradise on earth with its beautiful beaches and sea and rich cultural diversity. Still, cultural diversity means a hotbed of social rules and a huge melting pot of different ways of life, and amidst this chaos, it is difficult to find your own footing and your unique identity when one side of you looks back towards the ways of the past – epitomized by tradition, customs and at times archaic beliefs – and that of the future, where no barriers exist to prevent you from reaching your ultimate fulfillment in a world of technology and globalised culture.
Other than that, after a stint in the corporate world – that totally put me off this back-stabbing and biatchy universe – I started to pursue further studies in communications science and am still battling with those degree programs to this day (soon to come to fruition though, as graduation is just round the bend!). I started writing a few years ago and Light My World is my second release, after my first novel The Other Side was published by a local publisher on my island.

3. Tell us about your writing process. Do you outline or just start writing?

I am a compulsive plotter, so I usually have a full, detailed outline before I start to write. I found that this works for me because then it allows me to sit down and write whenever I can a free block of time and just get the words and story progression on paper. I’ve also got an overactive mind (that can be a bit tricky, like you start thinking and imagining storylines when, say, driving!) and I’m more of a visual writer, in the sense that I ‘see’ flashes of scenes inside my head and these are detailed and completely filled in, even sometimes to the point of hearing the dialogue from the very mouths of the characters. I know, that sounds totally insane (and no wonder maybe, because I hear the line ‘Mom, you’re nuts’ just about every other day!). I work a lot with visual cues though – specific portrait pictures of what I think the characters look like, specific location and interior design of the setting, even specific dialogue lines and expressions for every character. I’m big on backstory too, the character is most often someone I know as well as I know myself, so all this preparation work allows me to just ‘switch’ to writing mode and I place all those elements in the script of the plot, and watch them unfold while I write.
As much as I’d love time to let the muse come and grace me with her presence, I can hardly wait for her since I usually have a limited chunk of time to dedicate to writing between house and study duties (usually in the few hours my son is at school), so I need all the prep work to allow me to place myself in the relevant frame/world of the story to write it and still stick to my deadlines.

4. What genre is your favorite to write? Read?

In writing, I love to write contemporary with a comedy flair, like it’s not really comedy or comic or funny per se, but it’s got a light and fresh appeal that flows through the story. I find I ‘click’ better with this kind of writing, maybe because it is light and ‘happy’ in a way, that it takes you through with a certain spring in the heart and mind. Coming up with more intense, dramatized and ‘tortured’ lines is more of a labor for me, that I like, mind you, but the comedy aspect is something I enjoy in life itself (big big fan of romantic comedies) so I tend to write what I love too and I think (and hope! Lol) that this is obvious in my words.
As for reading, anything with a good plot and/or solid characterization features on my list. I particularly enjoy the works of Jill Mansell, Sophie Kinsella and Marian Keyes for funny works that take my mind off whatever may be happening in my life right then. I’m also into edgier stuff though, works of the likes of Martina Cole, who writes about the London and East End hard and realistic life and crime underworld. Philippa Gregory has reinforced my love of historicals, along with Barbara Erskine who often mixes elements of paranormal and an ‘unusual’ time period (she covered Iron Age England, circa 40-60 AD, in one of her books). Then there are the authors who sweep me into a book every time, like Sidney Sheldon and Judith McNaught. Most of the time, I’ll look for a romance plot or thread in a story, I read Harlequin and Avon (wonderful comfort food for the ragged mind) and chick-lit too is a way of breaking away from everyday life. Generally I’m looking for escape in a story, so if it gives me that and a strong romance between an unforgettable couple, I’m in happy land!

5. Is there a genre you haven't written, but would love to tackle in the future?

I would love to try my hand at YA in the future. I’m kind of on the fence with this one – it’s a dream, because it’s totally different than writing for adults. Teenagers and young people have their own ‘world’ and jargon and issues and I want to do that justice. I can recall my own teenage time, but I wonder if the youth of today face the same problems and issues I did. That’s one world that changes in the blink of an eye and it’s easy for an adult to feel some sort of generation gap with young adults and many a times, this can hamper the YA writing process, because you’re no longer able to empathize and ‘click’ with those youths and relay their plight and dynamic world and psyche with the real depth and respect that they deserve. Their universe is in constant evolution and you as a writer need to be able to feel this erratic pulse and keep it beating throughout a story that will appeal to a totally different kind of audience.

6. Do you work well with deadlines? Or do they stall your writing process?

As much as I hate to admit it, I actually thrive on the unhealthy adrenaline rush of completing a project just on a hair breadth of the deadline. As such, yes, I love deadlines and need them too. Not for this unhealthy rush, no, lol, but because deadlines allow me to plan my work and give me a framework in which I can focus my energy and drive, like I break the work into chunks and spread those chunks on a timeline and strive to meet the periodic goals set on this same timeline. I will usually assign myself a deadline on every project, and issue myself a challenge to finish it before that date. It helps to channel me, because if I didn’t have this ‘doom’ feeling of ‘deadline at such and such date’, I’d sure be one big procrastinator who’d end up getting nothing done. There have been times though when deadlines have been a pain and totally played me into a basket of nerves, and yes, I’ve missed some too, though thank goodness they were self-imposed ones. You also gotta realize that life happens too and that nothing, and no date, is generally set in stone. If it is (like exam dates!), you work with a big prep time to be able to meet said deadline.

7. What do you think makes a good story?

A strong, not hare-brained plot that has a start, middle, end with some solid conflicts thrown in; good, powerful characterization that give you ‘real’, ‘live’ people that jump off the page and leave an indelible mark onto your mind while making you feel you are in their shoes, in their minds, in their very heart when you’re reading about their life story; good voice that immerses you not just into the story but into this totally fictional world that somehow seems as real as the world outside your door when you’re reading about it; and the writer’s love of writing and love for the story that is there on every page of the book, in every word of the story. A good story to me is a fully- realized craft, a labor of love on behalf of the writer that she/he presents to the reader.

8. Do you see writing as a career?

Yes. What started as a dream and what was initiated by a love of words and a hobby of creating stories has become much more – it is now a part of me and I cannot conceive of my life without it. I also mentioned I had no plans to go back to the corporate world, so while writing is my occupation, I don’t see myself doing anything else so yes, I am pursuing it as a career. I am investing all of myself that I can invest into it, hoping it’ll bring me returns in the future. While I would definitely love for said returns to be financial in nature, that’s not my main aspiration – my biggest return on this investment I call writing would be the satisfaction of my readers and if I managed to place myself into their heart and minds as one of the authors they think of immediately when they think ‘good story’. I also don’t ever want any reader to think I am taking her/him for granted, and that’s one of my goals too. I will view the fulfillment of my career the day I have a solid, strong, and faithful readership behind me.

9. What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I need to know every possible detail on every story I write. The world should have no secrets for me; I should be able to place in every dust mote when I visualize the scene. I also need to know the story inside out, every incident, every happening. And the characters too have to be people I know deep down inside, from their most insignificant, fluffy thought to their deepest, most tortuous secret.
In this way, writing is a challenge. Every story prods me in different ways, because every story is different, and in the same light, every character is different, his/her own person, full of complexity and depth.
I know this is terribly obsessive of me, and sometimes I hate it that I need to be so thorough. But at the same time, this same obsession allows me for a broader scope and a bigger depth in every story, in every psyche, that I attempt to create.
I can talk for ages about every story I write, about every character I pen. But there’s just this much I can place in a book without it sounding like overload and overkill, and seeking out what is relevant or not and how to work it in is another part of the whole building process.

10. Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

Yes. That writers love, and in fact need, to hear from you. We write stories to satisfy a desire in our heart and also because writing and stories flow into our blood, but a big part of why we write is for your pleasure, for your enjoyment.
So whenever you read a story, please take a minute to let the writer know what you thought of the book. If it made a chord resonate inside you, tell the writer. If something intrigued you, ask about it. If you disliked something, tell us that as well. Give us as much of your feedback as possible, because we writers are often ‘lonely’ creatures who sit alone and write, hoping to please a reader’s mind, and believe me, when we find out we did please you or bring you satisfaction, it makes our day. It reinforces our strength and allows us to plod through, because someone somewhere liked what we wrote, so now we know we should try to make that person happy again, through another, better story.
Writers exist for and because of readers, so please do drop us a line whenever you read our work. Your feedback is much valued and sought after.

Finally, I wanted to say thanks to all the lovely people at Mistress Bella’s Interviews. It was delightful experience being here today and I hope to get to come back in the future.

Today's Guest is Author Isabel Roman

2009-09-25T11:23:00.000-07:00

Today we are proud to feature Isabel Roman here at Mistress Bella Interviews. Welcome, Isabel. Thanks for joining us. Can you tell us your latest news?

I have a new book out, Kiss of Scandal, from Ravenous romance. I love the story because of the unusual setting - Russia dulring the Crimean War. Most people have only heard of that war from the Charge of the Light Brigade, a disaster of a British military charge set in a poem and brought to life lby Errol flynn. Ok, this doesn't exactly take place on the front lines, but in the Winter Palace, with court intrigue galore.

When and why did you begin writing?

Hmm, seriously? About 4 years ago. When I discuvered that I had no idea how to write by the rules, that there were rules, and that in order to be taken seriously, I needed to figure out what they were and what to do about them.

What books have influenced your life most?

Influenced as in Best Book Ever? or Influence as in Oh, man, I so need to reference that? For Best Book Ever, I think it was Guide to Fiction Writing by Phyllis A. Whitney. Got it as a Christmas present one year, devoured it by night's end, and realized that I wasn't crazy, that the stories in my head were stories, and hey, maybe I should give this writing thing a try. Now it's chris Roerden's Don't Sabotage Your submission: Save your Manuscript from Turning Up D.O.A. I met her, and she's a smart funny lady with lots of experience who isn't afraid to share it with aspiring writers.

On the other hand, I read so much that' it's hard to really say what the Best Book Ever is. Lady Chatterly's Lover is an awesome one for its detail of post WWI England and its taboo plot.

Agatha Christie - there's something about the way she took a plot you think you know and twisted it. I love every one of her books, but when I started reading her she'd already died, so I stopped. I didn't want to not have any more of her writing. does that make sense?

Things you read in high school are way more appreciated as an adult than my teenage self could ever understand. Though I STILL don't like Charles Dickens. that man was just plain depressing.

What are your current projects?

I'm always working on something. I once made the nmistake of taking time off and couldn't couldn't get back into the groove. No discipline, no real interest, nothing. I had to force myself to buckle down and get to getting. It wasn't pretty. So now i try to always have at least 2 projects active. Just in case I run hard into a writer's block wall, I want to have the option of changing directions.

So, currently, I'm wokring on a series of (at the oment) 4 short stories for The Wild Rose Press for their Vintage Rose Line set in 1918-1920 about a detective agency. specifically it's about the couple, but it centers on the woman who wants to be a detective during the first free love movement in the 20th century. The 1960s had nothing on the 1920s!

Envision it as a sexy Thin Man series - smoking, alcohol, muder, and a pair of main characters with the hots for each other. I'm really excited about it. So far plotting it has been a lot of fun, I adore the characters and can't wait to start writing the first book.

I'm also working on another historical for Ravenous, a Regency-set treasure hunt. That has gone thorugh two major plots, and I'm still having issues with the actual treasure hunt of the plot.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Yes! Naming characters and titling books. :) Beyond that, sometimes I have a great plot (or I think it's a great plot) and I plan it out, I name the characters, I have it all set. And can't write it! I don't understand why or how, but it doesn't gel. Doesn't work. Can't get past page 3. It's depressing. Usually, I can work through it, but I often have to change gears.

A plot doesn't always work no matter how I might want it to. It may sound reall cool, may even work logistically, but if the characters don't like it, forget it. It's not going to happen.

Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

I'm not sure I have one. I love to read, I love a wide variety of genres, so iti's really difficult to say just one author. I mean I've read all the Scarlet Pimpernel books, and they're really cool. Well, the beginning ones are best.

I could be all academic and say Shakespeare, but eh. I only really love Macbeth. The rest I can leave.

I'm currently breezing thorugh John Mortimer's Rumpole series, which is hilarious, and just found several Elizabeth Hoyt that look delicious. I love historicals! Plus they're several e-books I'm saving for a free moment: Susan Macatee's Erin's Rebel, Lorhainne Eckhart's The Captain's Lady, Angela Cameron's Blood & Sex series and Roxanne Dent's The American Heiress.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I always wanted to be one. I know, I know, you hear it all the time. But it's ture. It just took me a while to realize it, get my act together, and start something not completely crap.

How long does it take you to write a book?

You have to realize, I write mostly on weekends. Nights are reserved for editing and research, but the actual writing is done mostly on weekends. When it flows, when it all clicks, maybe 10 days, so 5 weekends of 10-12 hours each for a 50-60k book. a longer one probably more time, but the last longer one I wrote now resides under the preverbal computerized bed.

What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

Insanity. I don't see anyone. I rarely talk to anyone, people think I fell off the face of the earth, which then has them calling and texting, which interrupts me and has me working longer.

Do you have any strange handwriting habits, like capitalizing all your 'r's or dotting your 'i's with hearts (anything like that)?

No, I'm not a cutesy woman, so nothing like that. I don't do a lot of handwriting any more, my job rarely requires it and I've noticed the nore I type the worse my handwriting gets. Shame, because I always wanted that perfect Catholic School handwriting. Usually, I'm in too much of a rush for neatness though.

What do you want to know about the future?

Lottery numbers. Seriously, I don't want to know about the future. Even the good stuff. I'm a big believer in yin/yang so with the good inevitably comes the bad. I'd prefer to just live life as it comes. Plus, I don't want to second guess myself. I've seen too many science fiction episodes where they choose B when A was right all along and now they're screwed.

I can screw my own life up just fine, thank you very much!

Are you a morning person or a night person?

Late morning early evening, does that count? I know, you were expecting an easy answer, weren't you. My days are so packed, that I'm usually exhausted by 9. but man, is it hard to get up in the morning!

Do you like thunderstorms?

YES! I LOVE thunderstorms. Except when the thunder is so loud it wakes me up. Scares me then. :)

What is the best way for readers to contact you?

I'm on everything. Seriously. It's a sad state of affairs, but there you have it. Facebook, myspace, twitter, blogger, wordpress. The easiest way to contact me is email: isabel@isabelroman.com. The best way to discover updates is my website: http://www.isabelroman.com/ or my blog: http://authorisabelroman.blogspot.com/

Anything you would like to add?

I don't think so. These were some pretty thorough questions! I think you know more about me than my mother. whose eyes glaze over 2.3 minutes after asking about my latest project. She's thrilled, but not very interested in the work itself.

Thanks again, Isabel, for taking the time to share so much with us. You gave me a few giggles too! Sky

Today's Author is Colleen Love

2009-09-24T08:47:00.000-07:00

Please welcome Author Colleen Love and her exciting new book! Please tell us your latest news?

Well, it has been a very busy year! I have two new releases, Eden at Twilight with The Wild Rose Press and One with Liquid Silver Books, a very sexy firefighter story with their Hearts Afire Series, titled Inferno in the June release. I had the opportunity to share with another great author, Dee S. Knight. I am currently working on an Urban Fantasy that I am very excited about! It's one of those plot lines that keeps me up at night and wakes me up early in the morning!

When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing as soon as I could put letters together and told stories even longer. I think the reason I enjoy the fantasy genre so much is because it is a complete escape from mundane reality. I have always been teased about living in a fantasy world, so I figured, why not share that fantasy world and let people see why I prefer being there?

What books have most influenced your life most?

Definitely Robert Jordan! His Wheels of time series captured my imagination and kept it. I love this world and character building and his story-telling ability is just outstanding.

What are your current projects?

I always have little short stories under construction, usuallythose are of the erotic persuasion, or spicy at the very least! I am just finishing a very naughty one called Roadside Rendezvous and The Candy Man. My larger novel is nearly half finished and I keep the 'door' closed on that one until it finished, otherwise it seems to kill the story for me.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

I think 'time' is the biggest factor for me, lol. If only I had more of it! Other than that, the rest just falls into place, as far as story construction and creation. I don't have problems falling into that world at all!

Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

I have so many favorites, but honestly? I love Denyse Bridger's work. She can weave a tale that just draws you in. She has such a lyrical voice and the most sexy characters! Whether it is erotic or mainstream, her way of telling it is breathtaking.
Of course I mentioned Robert Jordan as well. I think he is my tutor in many ways, despite passing on. I have learned a lot from reading his work.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

That's a good question. I have been writing as far back as I can remember and always took writing classes and such in school. I was in a challenge English class in high school and my teacher said I should be a writer, but I think it was already too late. It's just something I've been drawn to and always done.

How long does it take you to write a book?

It depends on the book length, I guess. A short story can be a weekend thing, a novella could take a month, a novel three or more. But it all depends on how much time I get to actually sit and peck at my keyboard with no interruptions.

What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

I usually get to have very early mornings, afternoons and late evenings to myself, so that is when I devote as much time as possible to it. Basically I write when I can sit long enough to throw some letters together.

Do you have any strange handwriting habits, like capitalizing all your 'r's or dotting your 'i's with hearts (or anything like that)?

Nothing as interesting as that. But I do have terrible handwriting when it's just for me. I used to work in a hospital, medical records department, and the physicians would tell me that my handwriting was awful! I figured it was time to slow down and tidy things up a bit! lol

What do you want to know about the future:

OO! Nothing. Life is an adventure and if I knew the outcome (except the final fatal one), I would ruin it! Some of the bumps along the way is the most exciting part.

Are you a morning person or a night person?

I'm both! Some days I just have to have a nap to get through it all.

Do you like thunderstorms?

Absolutely love them! Watching a storm is like standing amidst a giant theatre, watching Mother Nature's power roll out before you. I think it's an awesome experience.

What is the best way for readers to contact you?

website: http://www.colleenlove.webs.com/
email: colleen.love@yahoo.com

I do have twitter, myspace and facebook as well, they are all on my website.

Anything you would like to add?

Just a 'thank you" for having me! You asked me some very interesting questions and I had a great time answering them! Thank you!

Available now from the Wild Rose Press

EDEN AT TWILIGHT is the story of Lily, a woman who wants love, and Leaf, the man who risks it all to love her.

Lily Moore is an ordinary accountant who works long, hard hours, leaving room for little else. After strange occurrences begin haunting her, she's convinced by a motherly friend to take a vacation in Scotland. while there, she meets the man of her dreams, a andsome stranger with shifting hazel eyes.

Leaf falls for Lily the moment he sees her, love at first sight. never has a woman taken his heart so quickly. When trouble stirs and threatens her, he stands by her side, traveling through time and dimension to reclaim her from a deadly Drow leader. Lily has no choice but to trust him and hope his strength will pull them through. But is his strength alone enough?

Excerpt:

     Leaf hadn't expected himelf to invite Lily to town. But then again, he was surprising himself by enjoying breakfast in the house in the company of his Aunt and this enchanting and irresistible woman. She was walking with him now, quiet and round-eyed, admiring the gardens, and he found himself smitten by her gentle innocence, not to mention her radiant, simple beauty. It had happened so quickly that it nearly unnerved him.
     The path led them to the open barn, where Leaf went in and double-checked his load in the open bed wagon.
     "You mean we aren't taking a car or truck?"
     Leaf couldnt help the broad grin of amusement. "Nope, I find this way better suits me, and it also gives the lads some exercise." He suddenly stopped and faced her. "Ye don't mind, do ye?"
     "No I'm just surprised," her voice was quiet, "I've never ridden like this, or any other wya, by horse."
     "Well then, 'Just Lily', ye'r in for a nice treat, my lads are the best team around. come, I'll show ye." Leaf held his hand out to her and when she reached to accept, he saw the tremble and felt it when her cool, moist palm slid into his.
     Leaf's smile became reassuring, and he pulled her hand to his chest as if taking a solemn oath. "There, now, no need to worry, they are gentle as lambs, there's nothin' to worry over."
     They came to the stalls in the far corner and two large blond heads appeared over the half doors, curious eyes riveted on the new visitor. Lily gasped and laughed nervously. "Those are the largest lambs I've ever seen!"
     Leaf's laugh came esy. "This is Zeus and apollo." Both heads nodded in recognition and leaned out to be touched. Leaf casually scratched the white stars on their foreheads. Releasing her hand, he turned and stood between them as they leaned over and touched noses. "They are brothers, aren't ye. ye can touch 'em, they won't hurt ye."
     Lily held her fingers out and they sniffed and snuffed at her before a soft tongue licked at her fingers. Lily couldn't help but laugh. "Their tongues are so soft and warm!"
     "They like ye, they both have a sweeet tooth and fall easy for a sweet lass." Leaf reached his arms around their massive noses and hugged each in a one-armed embrace, and scratched their thick jaws. "Well lads, shall we have a run today?" Releasing them, he went to the tack room, leaving Lily alone. He watched for a moment, from the shadow of the room, as Lily touched each face with gentle, hesitant and guarded strokes with her fingertips. Zeus and Apollo nodded against her fingers. Leaf turned and began gathering the tack he needed. Lily's yelp snapped his attention back to the doorway.
     "Oh!" Lily's voice squealed with surprise.
     Leaf came back just as Apollo's nose brushed against Lilly, jostling her.
     "Oh, you are pushy!" She looked to Leaf. "I don't think they like me touching them at all!" Dropping her hands, both velvet noses nudged from opposite angles. Lily stepped away.
     "Apollo! Zeus! Ho..." Leaf's tone was solid and stern as he put the tack on the bench and came over to them. Both horses raised their heads and watched him, ears pricked forward with intent interest. "they like ye well enough, lass." He couldn't help the grin that crossed his lips. They just want it harder."
     "Pardon me?" confusion creased her expression even as her color darkened in a deep blush. Leaf regretted not being able to see it in better lighting.
     "They want ye to scratch them harder."
     Lily laughed. "They like it rough, huh?" Reaching up, she scratched the white star between Apollo's eyes; Zeus reached over and bumped him out of the way, nipping at him. Apollo threw his headup in protest. Lily flinched and stepped back.
     "Lads!" The tantrum stopped instantly and their attention went back to him. "Here, try it this way." Leaf came up behind her and slid his hands down her arms, taking her hands in his. He stretched them out and placed one each to a lowered head, now calm and wating, to the places he knew they liked scratched best.
     Zeus and apollo closed their eyes as the curl of Lily's fingers scratched their enormous heads. The music of her voice crooned and whispered to them as she reached up to stroke their fuzzy ears and the forelocks between, making her stretch.
     Leaf felt as though an inseparable bond melded them together, feeling his breath catch when he pressed in closer, and her soft curves pressing against him. His hands ached to slide in, take her and pull her closer. But he remained where he was, breathing in her scent and absorbing the pleasure of feeling her so close and reminding himself she was not his for the taking, yet. Drawing in another deep breath, he held it and she turned her head, giving him a shy smile. He slid his hands to her elbows and, with regret, released her, stepping free and letting his breath go. Turning, she looked up at hinm with quiet expectation in her eyes. He wasn't sorry for being so forward, so he wouldn't say it, but in his heart, he knew it wasn't an apology she wanted.
     "We should get goin'." He opened the latch to the stall door and let it fall open with a deep groan that spoke for his heart.
     "Um, yes, may I help with anything?"
     Leaf slipped the halter onto Zeaus' outstretched nose and half buckled it. "Yes, ye can hold his lead while I get his tack and harness on."
     Leaf moved away and Zeus plodded behind him to the front of the wagon and stopped. Lily held the lead and scratched him with less hesitation than before. He didn't really need her to hold the horsesm but it got her used to them and gave hin the pleasure of watching her.
     The simple act of touching her bare arms and hands had formed a connection between them just as he had feared, and hoped, it would. He had touched her before, but the way he was feeling toward her was changing and his connection to her was evolving, just as it seemed her reception to him was, as well. Even as she was touching Zeus's shoulder now, so he was feeling the very thing Zeus felt. Leaf was glad for the care of Apollo to distract him, he purposely blocked the pleasure her touch was having on Zeus, but he did let a stream of it though, just enough to let his skin prickle. After haltering Apollo, he led him up next to Zeus.
     "They are so beautiful, Lily breathed, looking up to the head towering above Her Smiling eyes radiated the warmth of her heart and he could feel her joy as she turned to Apollo and showered him with equal attention. She giggled when Zeus pulled gently at her hair with his nimble lips, not quite ready for her to give up her affections yet. Leaf took a deep breath and began hitching them both to the wagon.
     "I don't blame ye buddy," Leaf whispered to the frustrated Zeus when Lily turned away, unawares.

Contact Colleen Love at: http://www.colleenslove.webs.com/ or
                                     http://colleenslovenotes.blogspot.com/
Where Love is Magic

Today We Welcome Author Teresa Roberts

2009-09-22T11:31:00.000-07:00

Hello, Teresa! Welcome to Mistress Bella Interviews. Would you share with us your latest news?

I have a new book out from Samhain Publishing today! It's called Lions' Pride (Duals and Donovan: The Different, Book 1) and it's an erotic paranormal with a witch heroine who specializes in green magic and sex magic and not one but two hot feline shapeshifter heroes a lion and a cougar. Here's the blurb:

Elissa Donovan is a real green witch - when she and her lion-shapeshifter husband have sex, the blazing heat is recycled to warm their house. Now her beloved Jude has been kidnapped by a shadowy government agency, and the last place she can turn for help is her high-powered family, who consider her magic mediocre.

When Rafe Benedict gets Elissa's call for muscle to back up her magic, he risks his law enforcement career to answer. He's spent a lifetime hiding his Dual ability, but something about Elissa and Jude's magic awakens the cougar within him.

Tempting, bronzed Rafe is the perfect fuse for Elissa's sex-fueled magic. Danger lies in breaking her vows; joining with anyone other than her true mate could not only send her marriage up in flames, it could burn out her powers in a last, all-or-nothing explosion. But Jude is worth the risk. And for Rafe, potential heartbreak is nothing next to the chance to help the two people he's coming to love.

First, though, Rafe needs a crash course in Cougar...

When and why did you begin writing?

To answer that, I'd need to remember a time in my life when I wasn't wriring or at least playing with words. I grew up surrounded by omivorous readers, though I didn't learn to read especially early - the books my mother and grandmother read to me, such as Shakespeare and The Sword in the Stone, were far more interesting than books aimed at beginning readers! I suppose it was only natural I started telling my own stories.

What books have influenced your life most?

Wow, big question. Considering what I write now, I'd say an early-70s Gothic romance with ghosts and a heroine in peril must have influenced me. I have no idea who wrote it, but it's one of the first books I remember reading. I was six or so. Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights were other books I read early on. (Yes, my mother was an English teacher. Why do you ask? :) ) I think you see where I get my bent for dramatic paranormals. But I also love Jane Austin, so my books alway have a sense of humor.

Another book that influenced hugely as a kid and still haunts me today is Louisa May Alcott's Little Women, with its determined young writer heroine. Okay, she ends up getting discouraged from writing her generation's equivalent of naughty paranormals. but hey, she got redirected by her appropriate hero- the ookish one who was wise enought o realize she was writing for the market instead of telling her stories,- so I guess that's okay.

What are your current projects?

I'm working on another Duals and Donovans book. It's not a direct sequel to Lions' Pride, but it is in the same world. It involves a male Donovan witch, his fox dual husband, and a kitsune (that's a Japanese fox spirit whose other form is a lovely woman) who's under a curse and needs their help. I'm also working on another installment of my Seasons of Sorania series for Phaze and two contemporary sexy comedies with my fabulous co-author under the pseudonym Sophie Mouette. Plus I write short erotica.

And work four days a week. And have a huge garden. I'm a busy lady, but it's all fun. (Well, except the day job.)

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

the hardest part for me is often making time, but I imagine that's true for many writers who also have outside jobs and occasionally want to indulge in their hobbies or see their friends.

Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Haven't you figured out by now that I don't like to pick just one? (That's why I gave my heroine two hunky heroes!) My favorite authors shift regularly, but I'l name a few I'm loving right now: Morgan Hawke for her smoking, no-holds-barred sex and intriguing settings; Eloisa James for her unusual characters (I adore Jemma, the seemingly frivolous duchess who's also the best chess player in England) and highly literate writing; Lynn Flewelling for taking some of the well-known paradigms of of heroic fantasy and creating something fresh and intriguing; Guy Gavriel Kay for writing for writing like an angel and creating characters who break my heart so beautifully; Jijm Butcher and Patricia Briggs for being my current favorite urban fantasy writers. and Jane Austin, just because I'm an English teacher's daughter, after all.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

The last time I visited my Mom, she'd unearthed a bunch of my old shcool papers. It first turns up as a stated ambition in about fourth grade, but I was already writing long before the. she had poems and min-stories I "wrote" by dictating them to her at age five.

How long does it take you to write a book?

I'm not a fast writer, although when I'm really focused I can write a lot in a day. It took about a year to write Lions' Pride. Mind you, I wrote a dozen short stories, a novella or two, revised a co-authored novel and started another one in that time as well.

What do you want to know about the future?

Selfishly, I want to know if my books are remembered.

Less selfishly, I want to look into the future and find out what we finally come up with as a clean post-fossil-fuel energy solution so we can start using it now. (Or, heck, since I'm already time-travelling, start using it thirty years ago and save us a lot of pollution).

Are you a morning person or a night person?

Night, definitely, although if you can get me up early, I enjoy the stillness and beauty, particularly near the ocean.

Do you like thunderstorms?

Big weather turns me on. Sometimes my husband and I go to the beach in inclement weather to watch a thunderstorm over the ocean. We've also been known to rent waterfront hotel rooms during blizzards and bad nor'easters.

What is the best way for readers to contact you?

Email is probably best, at teresanoelleroberts@comcast.net. You can also add me on Facebook - send a message to say you're a reader - or check out my website, http://www.teresanoelleroberts.com/. Be warned, it's still under construction. I need to find a
picture of a sexy guy in a hard hat to put up...if only to embarrass my shy male web designer.

Anything you'd like to add?

Haven't I rambled enough? :) Oh, hope you like the book and if you do, tell your friends!

You haven't rambled at all! (In fact, I can't wait to see your sexy hard hat guy as soon as you find him and I'm trying to figure out how to get my hubby down by the ocean for the next storm!)

Thanks again and good luck with all of your books!

Welcome Author Becca Dale

2009-09-21T13:21:00.000-07:00

Please Join us in welcoming Becca Dale to Mistress Bella Interviews.

Greetings, Becca. Can you please tell us your latest news?

My most recent release is a novella called "Tied Up With Green" which is the story of a strong minded woman attracted to her equally strong boss. Trea has worked for years to establish a reputation as dedicated and intelligent. When it comes to sex, she never mixes business and pleasure, and she always calls the shots. Trea believes power offers security in a male dominated world.

However, when her new boss, Jason Green, steps into the picture, he refuses to follow her rules. He plays the game long enough to weaken her defenses, then steals control and demands equality. Jason's unwavering strength makes Trea confront her own weaknesses and helps her destroy the walls she has so carefully built around her heart.

"Tied up with Green is a delightfully spicy short story that gives new meaning to the phrase, 'tied up with the boss'", - Night Owl Romance

"The sex scenes between the two are really hot, with Jay making Trea want him even with her restriction. It is an honest story, with a HFN ending. Don't let this one pass you by." - San Diego Erotic and Romance Book Examiner

This is my third publication with Phaze, an online publisher of romance and erotica. Phaze has been really good to me, and I appreciate all the help Kat, my editor Will, and Alessia in the art department gave me on this project. It has received some high reviews andm ade it as number eleven on Phaze's top twenty for August.

My other works for Phaze include:
"Adarkan's Salvation", a futuristic fantasy novel. Adarkan's destiny is to save the world and its people from destruction. She doesn't have time for love or lust, especially in the form of her father's arrogant and sexy Beta. But when prejudice and violence threaten the peace and her very life, Adarkan must accept that no matter how determined or able, everyone needs someone to catch her when she falls.

"Becca Dale writes an engaging story of love, sacrifice, and hope. She blends science fiction and romance seamlessly with love scenes that spice things up just the right touch." - Night Owl Romance

"If you want a sweeping fantasy where the woman must take charge, then Adarkan's Salvation is just the read for you! I give this work 4 1/2 cherries!"- Whipped Cream Reviews

"Ice Crystal" a short story about a woman finding self. Crystal escapes to her grandmother's cabin to find peace after the death of her controlling husband. Instead, she finds a sexy man who claims to be her guardian angel.

"Woodland Wonder" a free short story. (Go to phaze.com and click on free stories on the left hand side of the page.) A brief sexual escape. Sweet and fairly raw.

When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing in about fifth or sixth grade when I made up stories for slumber parties and campouts, primarily because I loved it. I've always enjoyed creating funny, romantic, or creepy stories in my head and loved it more when other people liked them as well. [I'm a greedy feedback pig! I admit it. :)]

After I married and had kids, I wrote silly or scary things for my son and daughter and their friends. I got pretty good at adjusting my topic to my audience. I didn't get serious about publishing anything until about five years ago. then it took me a while to find what editors and readers expect freom an actual written manuscript versus a spur of the moment tale. So if there are any inexperienced writers out there struggling with that same thing, hang in there and you'll figure it out. Find a writers group to provide feedback. That helps tremendously.

What books have most influenced your life?

I have no clue which particular titles have impacted me most. I used to read constantly. I became enamored with romance novels in middle school so I guess, since that is what I write, they have influenced me the most through the years. Stories of savage and unpredictable men and the women who tame them a tiny bit for their personal enjoyment have always been my favorites. I don't really like overly cultured heroes. I want them rough around the edges but not crude or trashy. Jude Deveraux has written some fantastic examples of this type of man.

What are your current projects?

I am writing a first person romance with the working title Promises - Promises. the main character is not a super woman like many heroines are. She's confident but at times unsure, pretty but not stunning, smart but quirky and a little clumsy. Overall she's likable and normal with normal friends and a close knit family. She makes me think of the girl next door all grown up and a bit sassy.

I am also working on a mainstream novel which I keep putting on the back burner because frankly it scares me. The story follows a young man from conception through his late teens. I love the main character and am terrified to send him out to be judged. He is my third baby and I am as protective of him as I am of my real children. I know that sounds weird, but his story reflects the lives of young people I have met through the years who have been lost or cast out for some reason. I actually cry at times when I sit down to this work. It is the story which is most important to me, therefore the most difficult to write.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Editing. As an English major, I understand the importance of revision, but I always want to get on with the next story. Once I've written the ending, the novel is complete in my mind. I also tend to read what I meant to say not what is actually on the page, so even though wrong words and misplaced punctuation bugs me in other people's work, I struggle to find them within my own. My writing partners have a field day with my typos.

Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about his/her work?

Presently, I love Lora Leigh. Her breed series is compelling and rich overall. She paints her characters with flaws that make them human despite their animalistic natures. Her women read as strong and intelligent and her males are crazy sexy. Traditionally though, I adore authors like Zora Neale Hurston and novels like Their Eyes Were Watching God because a reader can become immersed in the culture and language of an entire society different from one's own. I think that's why I like science fiction/fantasy as well. J.R.R. Tolkien and the Lord of the Rings series amazed me as an adolescent and still does now that I'm an adult.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I don't know that I had a revelation, Bella. Creating stories has always been a part of who I am. My mother would be happy to show you my really early poems and stories but please don't ask or you'll regret it. Characters dance and fight for attention in my head all the time. It is simply a matter of allowing them into the daylight. I hope that wasn't as insane as it sounds. :)

How long does it take you to write a book?

That depends on what is happening in my real life. For me, writing is still a joyous dream. I adore the whole process: finishing a story, the acceptance letter, reviewers' feedback, everything. Unfortunately, I don't have much spare time to dedicate to it as life often gets in my way. I suppose on average it takes me about a year to complete a full length novel, a few weeks to a couple months for a short story.

What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

For practical reason, I have always written in the middle of the night while my family slept. I write until my brain shuts down at two or three in the morning. now that my youngest has gone off to college, that may change. When I set a personal deadline and am in the heart of a tale, I want to write all the time and squeeze in as many hours each day as I can. When I'm less focused, I probably write two or three hours a week. If I don't write often enough, I lose focus and get crabby.

Do you have any strange handwriting habits like capitalizing all your "r"s or dotting your "i"s with hearts or anything like that?

Not really. My handwriting is hurried and tight, at chicken scratching the dirt. I've always wanted to have a graceful script, but no matter what I do, it turns to a scribbled mess.

What do you want to know about the future?

Were the Maya right about 2012?
Will we ever evolve enough to have a truly equal society?
Will Democrats and Republicans ever learn to get along?
Will baggy butt pants go away or will there be guys in the old folks' home with their Depends showing above their waistbands? Not a pretty image I must say.

Are you a morning person or a night person?

Ha. There's a question. Both and neither I guess. I am usually awake at five in the morning but convince myself not to get up if I don't have a story burning in the back of my mind that I want to work on before leaving for my job. Early morning can be my most productive time if I'm not feeling lazy. Consequently I'm dozing off by nine unless I have to be awake for some reason. If I make it past eleven, then I want to go all night and often do if I'm writing.

Do you like thunderstorms?

Yes. They're scary and beautiful in a way that nothing else can match - raw untamed, and breathtaking.

What is the best way for readers to contact you?

Pop by my blog at http://beccadale.blogspot.com/ . I am not terribly good at updating it, but I am trying to be better. Visitors would help. I'm also on facebook and myspace. Becca Dale.

If you really want to talk to me, drop me a note at authorbecca@yahoo.com. Do not contact me there if you're selling something, please, but I would appreciate hearing from readers or other writers.

Anything you would like to add?

I love comments from readers. One of the best parts of writing is hearing what people liked or disliked about a story. All right, the disliked part is a little hard to take sometimes, but it is a necessary evil. My critique partners are terribly honest with me at times, which I find both refreshing and painful. They kick my butt and remind me to follow the necessary rules and break the rest.

Thanks again for having me visit, Mistress Bella. I enjoy your sit and look forward to being included on it.

Thanks for joining us, Becca, and good luck with all of your projects!

Please Welcome Author Jae Knight

2009-09-19T19:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome Jae, and thanks for joining us today. Please tell us your latest news!

I do not have any upcoming releases just yet, but I am working on a third installment in my series, Tenebrae. The first two books are already out and available for purchase at Phaze.com.

When and why did you begin writing?

I began to write when I was fifteen years old. I started out writing poetry and eventually moved on to short stories, attempting my first novel in my senior year of high school. My best friend would always write these incredibly dark poems and I envied that ability. If it hadn't been for her encouragement, I don't know how long it would have taken me to find my passion for writing.

What books have influenced your life most?

This is a particularly tough question. I love books and reading is my all-time favorite activity (other than writing, naturally). Reading always inspires me and gets the creative juices flowing. My favorite book is The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux. But lately, I've been influenced by reading lots of manga.

What are your current projects?

I am currently working on the third novel in my erotic paranormal series, Tenebrae. It picks up where Surrender to the Night left off and answers some of the questions I left to readers at the conclusion of the story. I am really looking forward to completing the book so I can move forward with the rest of the series. I have a number of other stories in progress right now , some of which I am trying new things that I hope go over well. Including some dark horror shorts.

Is there anything particularly challenging in your writing?

Motivation. At times I tend to procrastinate and stray from my writing. Keeping myself on track is definitely the hardest battle that I have yet to win.

Who is your favorite author, and what is it that strikes you about their work?

I'd have to say Sherrilyn Kenyon. She just really did a great job on taking old legends (like vampires and shifters) and completely rewriting them into something unique and endlessly fascinating. That is something I admire and would like to be able to accomplish myself.

When did you realize you wanted to be a writer?

I was a senior in high school and had just shifted from short stories to trying out my first novel. Creating characters and plots was so much fun, even though it took a lot of work and imagination to do so. I carried a notebook with me everywhere (and still do!) so that I could write whenever I felt the need or had an idea to jot down. It was like finding what I'd been meant to do when I first picked up that pen and began to write a story.

How long does it take you to write a book?

Oh my,...it can take me anywhere from a year to three years ( for a 10k+ novel at least). From the Shadows, the first in my series, took me three years to write because of how many changes the characters and plotline went through. My world just kept expanding and evolving so I had to rewrite often. I don't regret it though. I'm quite proud of the world I managed to create.

What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

Heck, never organized. I guess you could say I don't even have a schedule, really. I just sit down when I feel creative, reread a few paragraphs to get back into the scene and start writing. I usually always edit what I've written once I stop for the day. Then edit again once the story is finished.

Do you have any strange handwriting habits? Like capitalizing all your "r"s or dotting your "i"s with hearts or anything like that?

My handwriting changes as I write and gets hard to read which is why I prefer typing out my stories than writing them by hand. It's an odd mix of calligraphy-esque lettering and sharp, jagged lines.

What do you want to know about the future?

I'd like to know how far my career as a writer will go. It's a dangerous since what I would learn might make or break my motivation. I'd still be determined to write, to try, however. I am a writer through and through. Can't imagine devoting as much passion to another career as this.

Are you a morning person or a night person?

I am a night person all the way. I feel the most creative in the wee morning hours, say three to seven a.m. My mind has always been more active by night, which makes for some interesting dreams...some of which have inspired poems or stories.

Do you like thunderstorms?

Depends on the severity. I like lightning, rain and thunder, but when the high winds kick in...I begin to get nervous, admittedly. Although a soft, rumbling thunderstorm is very relaxing.

What is the best way for readers to contact you?

There are quite a few ways to contact me.
By email: jadedjae@yahoo.com
Myspace: www.myspace.com/jaeknight
Twitter: http://twitter.com/JaeKnight
Blogger: http://authorjaeknight.blogspot.com/
Deviantart: http://jae-knight.devaiantart.com/

Anything you would like to add?

Sure! I've also had two stories in the Coming Together Anthologies. Unchained Heart is a part of Coming Together: At Last, Volume 2 (which benefits Amnesty International) and Hailey's Comet was in Coming Together: Al Fresco (which benefits Conservation International). I'd also like to thank Mistress Bella for interviewing me and the readers, for giving the world I love a chance to entertain you.

Thank you Jae, for giving us a peek into the world of a successful writer. We'll all be looking forward to the third installment of Tenebrae and all of your future works!

Interview with Sandra Sookoo

2009-09-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

Please join us in welcoming Sandra Sookoo to Mistress Bella Interviews

Welcome Sandra, please tell us your latest news.

I'm very excited to announce my latest book release. The Haunting of Amelia Pritchart comes out September 30th with The Wild Rose Press. After that, my take on the Santa myth, Exiles From Christmas, releases November 16th through Lyrical Press. Both are paranormal/fantasy romances. It'll be a very exciting few months!

When and why did you begin writing?

I wrote my first "epic" fantasy novel, featuring neighborhood kids, around ten or eleven. After that, I was never without paper and pen in hand, scribbling stories and creating new worlds. The enthusiasm hasn't dimmed since. I think I like writing because I can create a new reality much different from the one I live. Escapism at its finest.

What books have influenced your life most?

I've always been a fan of Lewis Carroll's work. I love his weird and wonderful characters. Midway through high school I became captivated by Gone With the Wind. Agonized for months over the ending. It wasn't until my late 20's that I started reading historical romances, which evolved into paranormal romance now. I guess you could say, I love to read so there've been lots of outside influences.

What are your current projects?

Right now I'm writing a holiday themed novella. Once it's finished I need to do some formatting/editing on a different novel. After that I plan to write a story about a ghost in order to get the smaller projects cleared so I can start work on a paranormal novel at the first of the year.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

At the present time I'm trying to get my characters to be grounded and stay there. If they don't have a reason for doing what they're doing, the story won't work. That's one of the cool things about being an author. Stretching your preconceived notions and doing things a new way.

Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

I don't have a favorite. I go through genre phases and there will be a favorite during a reading run, but to say an author comes head and shoulders above everyone? Not so much. Every book is wonderful in its own right.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

The day I went to the library and realized I'd exhausted all the Nancy Drew and Anne of Green Gables books. I thought, well maybe I should try writing something I wanted to read. So began a love affair with words and imagination.

How long does it take you to write a book?

Depends on how much outside distraction there is. If it's a full length novel, usually a few months to write and get it self-edited. If the piece is a novella, a month or so, but if I'm really on fire with something the time span varies.

What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

That also depends on what else is going on throughout the day, but I try to get in a good 5-6 hours. Some days more, some days less.

Do you have any strange handwriting habis, like capitalizing all your "r"s or dotting your "i"s with hearts, anything like that?

Nope. Very rarely do I write out anything long hand anymore. Only if I'm away from my computer.

What do you want to know about the future?

Nothing because that would cheat me out of the fun of finding out and getting there for myself.

Are you a morning person or a night person?

Probably night. I usually turn in around midnight. On the other hand I'm up at seven a.m. LOL

Do you like thunderstorms?

Absolutely! They're awesome, and living in the Midwest, we get some really good ones. I love how the air smells just before the rain.

What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email, myspace, twitter, etc.

Email addy for reader mail is sandrasookoo@yahoo.com. You can also find me on facebook or my website http://www.sandrasookoo.com/.

Anything you would like to add?

Thanks for having me. It's been fun!

Interview with Beth Trissel

2009-09-17T18:26:00.000-07:00

Help me welcome, The Wild Rose Press author, Beth Trissel.

Care to share a short bio with us?
Certainly. I'm a Virginia author of historical and light paranormal romance with the Wild Rose Press. I also write creative non-fiction pieces about rural life. The beauty of the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding mountains are my inspiration.

Can you tell us about your latest release and/or past releases? Light paranormal romance Somewhere My Love (fall 2008) won the 2008 Preditors&Editors Readers Poll for Best Romance Novel. In May 2009 I had three historical/light paranormal romance novels released in a whirlwind month: Daughter of the Wind, Enemy of the King, and Through the Fire (finalist 2008 Golden Heart). All have received excellent reviews and each won book of the week at Long and Short Reviews.

Tell us about the heroine and hero of the above books. I’ll focus on Daughter of the Wind: Young Scots-Irishwoman Karin McNeal longs to know who she really is. Former Shawnee captive Jack McCray holds the key to her past.

What inspired Daughter of the Wind? A tragic account I came across in my studies of the early Scots-Irish about a captive woman who fell in love with the son of a chief. As the result of a treaty, she was taken from her warrior husband and forced back to her white family where she gave birth to a girl. Then the young woman’s husband did the unthinkable and left the tribe to go live among the whites, but such was their hatred of Indians that before he reached his beloved her brothers intercepted and killed him. Inconsolable and weak from the birth, she grieved herself to death. Heart wrenching, it haunts me to this day. And I wondered…was there some way those young lovers could have been spared such anguish; what happened to their infant daughter when she grew up???

What can we expect from you regarding your future writing?
More historical/light paranormal romance charged with mystery and adventure.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing? New time periods/settings take considerable more research before I can write the story.

Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work? My favorite author since third grade is CS Lewis with his wonderful Chronicles of Narnia series. He taught me to believe in the power of pretend.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? At about that time.

How long does it take you to write a book? That varies from 3-6 months to several years, including research.

What is your work schedule like when you're writing? I try to write every day but particularly like the days where I can get in some good solid blocks of writing time.

Do you have any strange handwriting habits, like capitalizing all your “r”s or dotting your “I”s with heart (or anything like that)? Not that I’ve noticed.

What do you want to know about the future? Are we gonna survive 12/12/2012. And no, do not go see that movie.

Are you a morning person or a night person? I’m beginning to wonder if I’m either one. Need more coffee.

Do you like thunderstorms? Ever heard of getting struck by lightning?

What is the best way for readers to contact you? Email : bctrissel@yahoo.com

Anything you would like to add? “Never give up! Never surrender!” (Galaxy Quest).

Thanks so much Beth for stopping by. We wish you the best of luck and really look forward to what you have in store for us next!

Mistress Bella

Interview with Erotic Author Valerie Mann

2009-09-02T20:36:00.000-07:00

And here is one of our own...Valerie Mann

Care to share a short bio with us?

Sure! I’m a mother of five, married to the hottest man on the planet (you wonder why we have five kids?), I’m a dental hygienist, currently living in Raleigh, NC. I was born in California, grew up in upstate New York, lived in central Illinois for ten years and the east coast of Florida for two. I can say honestly, I am a true patriot…I love my country because I’ve lived all over it.

Tells us about your two new releases

Fanning Old Flames…wow, what a trip this book has been! I grew up in New York, only a couple of hours from the Canadian border. My family spent many vacations in Canada on a small lake in Ontario. I fell in love for the first time there. Nothing ever came of it but I will always think about that time in my life with fondness. Do I want to find that man? No, but that was a very sweet time in my life. It’s these kind of experiences that mold us and make us dream and write.

As for my other story, a few months ago, I’d been talking to a critique partner who was writing a very erotic tale about two people who hook up at a party and I suggested that perhaps they could play hide and seek. She didn’t buy this premise but it definitely got me to thinking – how erotic would it be for adults to play Hide and Seek? Consider the possibilities of a man and a woman hiding in a dark place together? So, Kelly and Nick’s story was born. I’d unoriginally titled the story, The Game, but Wild Rose Press renamed it, Hide & Seek. It’s pretty hot if I do say so myself.

Can you remember when you received the emails stating you were going to be a published author for the first time?

Oh my gosh, yes! I sent my first submission to an electronic publisher who said the response time was 180 days…I calculated this to be Halloween of 2009. Nine days later, at about eleven o’clock at night, I checked my email before going to bed and found an email from the publisher in my inbox – my heart jumped – I figured the editor had gotten done laughing her butt off and rejected me nicely. My husband is snoring beside me and since I’ve learned not to wake him for anything other than a nuclear attack, I had to keep my private joy to myself that the publisher not only didn’t HATE my story but wanted to offer me a contract! Thank you Cobblestone Press for being so nice…you not only said you LIKED my very first submission, but you actually asked to buy it. Can it get any better than that?

If your books were made into a movie, who would you want to play the hero and heroine?

Seriously, I don’t see anyone in Hollywood, Bollywood-or-any-other-wood playing any of my characters. But having said that, I could seriously adapt any hero I’ve created if Daniel Craig wants to jump on board and play one of my heroes. And I’ll play the heroine, just to keep things really simple. Yeah.

Do you have a writing soundtrack? Or movie or noise that plays in the background as you write?

Absolutely! I don’t know how many times a song has inspired me. I adore grunge, post-grunge rock and post-alternative. I have the most inspirational incredible playlist of hard rock which includes Three Days Grace, Puddle of Mudd, Nickelback, Muse, My Chemical Romance, Seether, Saving Abel, Hinder and more. Most of the music I listen to is filled with testosterone and I get a lot of ideas for my heroes and their emotions when I listen to my music.

When did you first start writing?

When I was in fifth grade. My teacher had us all write a story about something that happened in a museum – I wrote about a stolen antique ring and the class was mesmerized. After that, whenever we had to write a story, the class always asked to hear MY story…talk about validation of your peers!

Who or what influenced you to submit your work for publication?

Oh boy…here’s where my critique partners get some credit. I always wanted to submit my work but never did. I always had excuses for not doing it – “it’s not ready, it’s not good enough, it still has problems”. Finally, my critique partners had enough and simply quit critiquing me – why bother? The fact that they’d put so much into my work and I never submitted totally insulted them. And that’s when I got motivated. I owed them that much.

Is there anything you learned from writing your latest book? If so, what was it?

Even if you don’t think it has any redeeming value…step away from it for a few weeks or months. You just might like what you find when you read it again. And if it needs fixing, you may have stepped away long enough to find the solution.

What is your work schedule like when you are writing?

Work schedule? What’s that? I’d love to have a writing schedule but for now, it’s as inspiration hits. Although I must tell you, I think my dental patients would be shocked at what I think about when I’m cleaning their teeth. ‘Nuff said….

What does your family think of your writing?

100% behind me. Although I must tell you that I don’t let my husband read my writing because it makes him laugh. And as a romance writer, that’s a total and complete turn-off. I love him but I don’t let him read my writing anymore. He just doesn’t get it. My mom, on the other hand, loves my writing. Erotic romance doesn’t bother her in the least.

What do you think makes a good story?

A seriously hot, alpha male and a woman who can stop him in his tracks. Now that’s sexy!

If you could compare yourself to an animal, which would it be and why?

I have dreams about flying high above the earth and I wake up with my heart pounding. I’d love to be a bird and be in complete control and soar above mere mortals.

What do you want to say to someone who is thinking of buying one of your books to read?

What kind of question is that? Of course I’d ask them to buy my book…but better yet, please buy my book and love it. That’s why I wrote it. It’s what I feel in my heart.

What is the best way for readers to contact you? Your websites, email address?

Please email me at valeriemann09@yahoo.com. And my website is www.valeriemann.com

Any advice for aspiring writers?

Listen to your critique partners. Find a good group to critique you and listen to them. Don’t be offended because chances are, they really do know what they’re talking about and if you don’t like what they’re saying, you may be doing yourself a disservice. I owe everything to Kimberly and HEART for giving me a chance when I knew practically nothing and not laughing their butts off (okay, they probably did but they never let on) and giving me timely and welcome advice. I took everything they told me to heart. And my more recent partners, Kris, Ash and Dena and also ERAuthors…you guys kick major romance butt.

Thanks so much Valerie for stopping by!! We can't wait to see what else you bring to the table.

Visit Valerie Mann's Blog

Visit Valerie Mann Books Blog

Buy Fanning old Flames

And be sure to look out for Hide and Seek coming soon from The Wild Rose Press

Until Next Time,

Mistress Bella

Interview with Author KB Alan

2009-08-31T18:11:00.000-07:00

First let me start by saying...K.B. Alan you have one SEXY cover for your latest release.

Hello and Welcome K.B. Alan to Mistress Bella Interviews

First, could you start by telling us what you are currently working on for publication and/or about your current release?

I’ve just released a werewolf story with Ellora’s Cave, which I’m pretty excited about, called Alpha Turned. Hillary was attacked four years ago and turned into a werewolf. Since then she’s ignored that aspect of herself, until she meets Zach, Alpha of the local pack. She learns that there are some definite perks to giving into that forbidden side of herself—not least of which is Zach himself.

Could you please tell us a little about yourself?

I discovered ebooks and erotic romance a few years ago and haven’t looked back since. I was inspired to pick up my old writing habit and see if I could write the kinds of hot stories I was enjoying so much. I have a regular 9-5 job but I live by myself, so I like to go home and immerse myself either in one of my stories, one of my favorite writers’, or with someone that I’m just discovering. Occasionally I let me friends drag me out of the house, though, I swear!

Tell us about your writing process. Do you outline or just start writing?

I admit, I’m a pantser. I usually start out with a couple of characters and some situation that they find themselves in, and go from there. It takes a bit of working with the characters to find out what it is that’s going on with and around them that warrants giving them their own story.

What genre is your favorite to write? Read?

This is sort of a problem for me, actually. I love to read so many different genres, and I’m finding that I love to write them all, as well. I have a contemporary ménage a trios out, a werewolf paranormal, and in progress are another contemporary, a fae who doesn’t quite understand what he’s gotten himself into hooking up with an intriguing but maddening human, a BDSM story involving a mage, and a sci-fi plot bunny that keeps hopping around in my head trying to get my attention. Not exactly the best method for finding a genre and sticking to it, but I’ve never been accused of being simple!

Is there a genre you haven't written, but would love to tackle in the future?

At some point I’m going to see if I can write a romance that I’m willing to let my father read! I don’t know though, my characters seem pretty intent on their hot sex, it may be a while before I find a couple that are willing to tone it down that much!

When did you first start writing?

I wrote all through high school and college, then let it go. Every so often I had the urge, but rarely wrote, until I finally bought a home computer. Then I just sat down and started writing as if I’d never stopped.

What influenced you to submit your work for publication?

The biggest influence was Ellora’s Cave. The fact that I was reading something new to me (erotic romance) and enjoying it so much. Eventually, when I got a computer, I wanted to write the kind of book I’d been reading, but I told myself I didn’t have to submit it, that I could decide once it was finished. But I started doing research on epublishers and when the time came, it was just the next obvious step to send it in. I figured nobody knew who I was and if they hated it, nobody would have to know. I’ve actually found it a lot harder to submit now that people know what I’m doing, but every time I get a positive reader email, it makes it easier.

What gets you in the writing mood? Music, reading, etc.

If I’m at home, I don’t write to music (which is weird, to me, but there it is). Occasionally I’ll turn on a classic station, which I know nothing about, just to get some noise in the apartment. If I’m out and about, I can listen to whatever background noise/music is going on and usually tune it out.

To get in the mood to write, I read and then start thinking about my own characters and what they want. A lot of that happens when I’m going to sleep or just waking up. Sometimes, on the weekend, I’ll think I’m going to take a nap, but then I start plotting, and five minutes later, I’m back at the computer.

Do you belong to a critique group? If so, how has this helped your writing, would you recommend it to others? If not, would you consider joining, if not, why do you like to work alone?

I do think it’s important to have someone that you trust to give you an honest opinion read your work before you send it out. You don’t have to take all of their advice, but you should stop and think about it. The truth is, I think those groups are actually better for you from the other side. I learn a lot by reading other peoples stories and trying to figure out why certain things work for me and other things don’t. Unlike some people, though, I have a really hard time sending out partials of my work. I would rather wait until it’s finished and I’ve gone over it a couple of times myself before letting anyone see it. I know some people can work on more of a chapter by chapter basis, but I’m never sure if my chapter is going to stay that way, so I would rather wait.

What does your family think of your writing?

My family and friends have been super supportive. I didn’t tell a single person what I was doing until I’d received a revise and resubmit on my first book, Perfect Formation, and submitted the revised story to my editor. After about a week of waiting, I broke and two of my friends, one at work, one when we were out having cocktails. Both were excited for me and when I got the acceptance they were thrilled and told everyone we know, including my coworkers. Not one person was anything less than super excited and supportive, so that was amazing. I called my parents who are both big readers and were amazed when I told them I’d written a book and it was going to be published. Then I told them that it was erotic and they weren’t allowed to read it, lol. I’ve actually just given my mom my second book to read, but I’m trying not to think about that too much!

What is the best way for readers to contact you?

I love to hear from my readers! I have a contact form on my website or they can email me at
kb at kbalan.com. I’m also on twitter as kb_alan and facebook as KB Alan.

Any advice you want to give aspiring writers?

You’ve probably heard it a hundred times before, but the best advice I know, is keep writing and keep reading.

Thank you so much K.B. for stopping buy.

Visit K.B. Alan's Website

Buy Alpha Turned by K.B. Alan

Buy Perfect Formation by K.B. Alan

Welcome Author Chelle Hicks!

2009-08-10T18:04:00.000-07:00

First, could you start by telling us what you are currently working on for publication and/or about your current release?

No More Than Friends is a short story being published by the Wild Rose Press due out August 12, 2009.
Britney and Quinton have been friends since college and they aren’t sure if they missed their window of opportunity to have something more. Doing a favor for Q leaves Brit wanting to try.
It’s short and sweet and hot.

Where are you from?

I’m from Baltimore. I once told a friend of mine that and he got all excited and said “Like The Wire? I love that show.” But alas I had to burst his bubble. I was raised in Baltimore County, not city. And it was very un-Wire like. I think the biggest things I miss about B-more are the bagels and crab cakes! Now we live in Southern Virginia.

Are experiences from the story based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

I think you’re trying to get me in trouble with this one! Well let’s see, my hubby and I did meet in college and we did go to HU (Hampton University not Howard) But I think that’s where the similarities stop. But hmm, the shower scene does give me a few ideas.

What book are you reading now?

OOOH!!! I love reading. I don’t drink. I don’t gamble. But my one vice is READING!!!! My name is Chelle and I’m a bookaholic. I just got off a really bad reading binge. I devoured all the Sookie Stackhouse Mysteries by Charlaine Harris (she rocks) in about a week and a half (all nine!) Looooved them! I gave myself these horrible reading hangovers where I’ll stay up to 1, 2 sometimes even 3 in the morning reading ‘just one more chapter.’ And what did I do as soon as I woke- take a bit more of the hair of the dog that bit me- and start reading again. Then rush to Target (they were on sale there) to buy the next one!

What was the hardest part of writing your book?
Revising!!!! When I write it’s usually because a story spins into my head and I love to get swept away in telling it. Seeing where it’s going. It’s like reading a really good book and I just have to find out what’s going to happen because I don’t know. So once I’ve finished the first draft, I know what happened. Fun’s over. Revising is where the work begins. I even started a new blog www.iheartrevisions.blogspot.com to help me gripe and offer support to others as I trek through learning how to not only enjoy this part of the process but to learn how to handle it more effectively.

Do you belong to a critique group? If so, how has this helped your writing, would you recommend it to others? If not, would you consider joining, if not, why do you like to work alone?

Currently, I do belong to a critique group: ERAuthors http://www.erauthors.org/. Before I belonged to another on line critique group called Critique Circle. I think one of the ways critique groups have helped me, is the whole twig/log analogy from the Bible. It’s so much easier to point out the twig in someone else’s eye (writing) than notice the log jutting out of my own eye (writing.) The more I point out others, helps me to see them clearer in my own writing.
Also, I have met some really wonderful writers who I enjoy bouncing ideas around with as well as sometimes it’s hard to really see the problems with a piece because I’m too close. I also really like helping others with their stories.

What animal do you think makes the best pet and why?

My beagle! He rocks. Yes, he howls and chews up everything in sight (he’s gotten much better though.) He has such a sweet temperament and still is a good guard dog. He’ll flop down at my feet when I’m writing and keeps me company.

Are you a morning person or a night person?

I’m such a morning person! I love getting up early to write or read. It’s one of the very few times in my house that it’s actually quiet. With three kids, a hubby, and the before mentioned beagle, it can get pretty loud most other times. So the early morning hours are MY time and I cherish them.

Have you ever cried during a movie? If yes, which one and why?

One of my other favorite things to do, aside from reading myself silly, is crying at movies! I love a good cry. One of my favorite lines from a movie is from Steel Magnolias (I can watch ten minutes of this movie and start boo-hooing) is “laughter through tears is my favorite emotion.” And it is so true. I love being brought to tears then something so funny happens you can’t help by laugh out loud. Happy endings or sad endings , I love ‘em all.

What is your favorite pizza?

Pepperoni pizza from a place down in Virginia Beach. Yum, nice and greasy. The ironic thing about pizza is I never even tasted it until I went to college at 18! Seriously. No, I wasn’t raised by aliens. I’m a super picky eater. I mean I’m horrible. Really, my friends hate ordering food with me whenever we go out for lunch. So as a child I refused to even taste pizza. I remember in fifth grade I skipped a day of school because we were going to have a pizza party. Now, my kids would starve (well not really but, close) if we didn’t eat pizza at least once a week.

Can you taste the difference between Pepsi and Coke? If so, which do you prefer?

I so can! And I can’t stand Coke! Back to the whole picky thing, I can tell the difference in a sip. Oh and Pepsi from 7-11 tastes the best!

Any advice you want to give aspiring writers?

Write, read, critique others writing. Study craft and tell the stories that only you can tell. Sometimes you think “oh, people have read about this before.” But maybe not the way you’re going to tell it. No one has your voice. Find it and help it to shine.

Thank you so much for allowing me this chance to talk about writing and my story.

You can buy Chelle's book, No More Than Friends HERE!
Visit Chelle's website HERE!

Welcome author Pamela Thibodeaux

2009-08-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

First, could you tell us what you are currently working on for publication or about your current release?
My latest short story releases are Winter Madness and Review of Love (FREE!) from White Rose Publishing. My latest novel release is Tempered Joy (book 4 in the Tempered series) from Com Star Media.

Could you please tell us a little about yourself?
I am a Christian wife, mother, grandmother, full-time insurance sales representative, and writer. I love the Lord with all my heart and seek to bring Him glory through my life and the lives of my characters.

Give us a sneak peek into the book?
Winter Madness
Publisher: White Rose Publishing

Sienna has survived what most succomb to - the death of a spouse and child and has maintained her faith despite her troubles. William has never met anyone who actually lived out what they say they believe. Is it true love between the faithful optimist and broody pessimist or simply winter madness?

Review of Love (Free Read! from White Rose Publishing)
Jason Stockwell has been commissioned to interview Kylie Erickson and to review her books. Only problem is, she won’t give the time of day much less an interview to someone whose type of writing she deems not worthy of respect. Can they suspend their judgmental attitudes and find true love?

Tempered Joy
Publisher: ComStar Media
All around rodeo cowboy and heir to the Rockin’ H Ranch, Ace Harris is determined not to fall in love. He’s only loved one woman in his life, his mother, and no one can even come close to filling her boots. Lexie Morgan thinks rodeo cowboys have rocks for brains and a death wish for a soul. A broken childhood and the death of her father and best friend leave her doubting and questioning God (despite her years of religious upbringing) and afraid of love. Can two young people who clash from the onset learn to trust in the healing power of God and find love and happiness amidst tragedy and grief? Tempered Joy is available in Ebook and Print along with the other 3 books in the series (Tempered Hearts, Tempered Dreams & Tempered Fire) and my debut single title novel from White Rose Publishing, The Inheritance.

Tell us about your writing process? Do you outline or just start writing?
I am 100% a SOTP (seat of the pants) writer. Sometimes I’ll have an idea of where the story will go, but I’ve never outlined or plotted before-hand. Can’t, the characters don’t tell me that much in advance – all I know is that the story will end HEA!

What genre is your favorite to write? Read?
By far, romance is my favorite genre – although I read a variety of books – if someone insists a book is good, chances are I’ll pick it up and give it a shot.

Do you have any favorite authors?
Nora Roberts, Francine Rivers, Julie Lessman to name a few – I read so much it’s hard to choose LOL!

Is there a genre you haven’t written, but would love to tackle in the future? Historical Romance

What’s planned next for your writing career?
I have an agent pitching 2 women’s fiction novels and a gift/devotional book. I’m also working on 2 other projects and have a slew of ideas to develop.

Do you work well with deadlines?
I think so. To date, my deadlines have been soft (30 – 90 days) with the option to request more time if necessary. Thankfully, I’ve been able to meet each deadline without delays.

When did you first start writing?
I began penning stories in 5-subject notebooks nearly 30 years ago.

What influenced you to submit your work for publication?
I’m an avid reader and felt my work was as well written –if not better- than some of the stuff that gets published. This may seem a mite arrogant, but if I don’t believe in my work, who will?

Do you belong to a critique group? If so-how does this help you? If not-would you ever consider joining one-if not- why do you think you work better alone?
I do belong to a small critique group and their help and feedback are invaluable. For many years I didn’t join critique groups because every one I tried, insisted on keeping me inside the CBA box. You see, I do not write ‘conservative’ Christian but “Inspirational with an Edge!” ™

What is the best way for readers to contact you?
Email: pthib-7@centurytel.net They can also leave a comment in the guestbook on my website: http://pamelathibodeaux.com or on my blog http://pamswildroseblog.blogspot.com. I am also on numerous networking sites like MySpace, Shout Life, Facebook and Twitter.

Any advice you want to give to aspiring writers?
Never give up; keep growing, learning and honing your craft. Network and promote – get your name out there even before you are published. Stay pliable and teachable. Strive for excellence. Be patient and wait on God’s timing. Use wisdom in every decision you make.

Anything you wish to add?
Yes, I’d like to THANK Mistress Bella and her interviewers for having me here with you today. I certainly appreciate your generosity and wish you ALL the best of God’s Blessings in everything you do!

Interview with author Evie Alexis

2009-07-27T19:09:00.000-07:00

Welcome author, Evie Alexis!

First, could you tell us what you are currently working on for publication or about your current release?

While working on several other projects, I am waiting for the release of my romantic comedy, Obsessive, Compulsive and Published! The date of ebook publication is set for December 2009. The paperback version releases a few weeks after.

Could you please tell us a little about yourself?

Born and bred New York City gal, I still live in the state, not so near the vicinity. When not writing, I teach English to young boys and girls, not to mention doing my best to raise two strapping young boys. I’m an avid reader, chocolate enthusiast and disciplined exerciser.

Give us a sneak peek into the book?

Obsessive, Compulsive and Published! is best described as a humorous romantic work. A continuation of its predecessor, The Obsessive Compulsive Romance Novelist, this novel continues recording the adventures of Erika Seals as she tries to lead a relatively normal life with her disorder. She believes herself more than victorious when an agent with an unusual name offers her representation services. While traveling the road to publication, Erika unravels a few mysteries presented through the pages of her manuscript, but her own personal dealings present even greater challenges. Her arch-nemesis is thrust back into her life, she learns she has to vacate her residence, and the love of her life, Elliot Beck, just may write a better romance novel than she does. Everything leads to a set of hilarious mishaps and sometimes setbacks for the poor, confused heroine.

Tell us about your writing process? Do you outline or just start writing?

I actually do both. The words jump into the page as I type (or draft in the back of a napkin) but I tend to outline what I want to happen in each chapter. Sometimes a perfect ending or scene pops into my mind and I type it into my rough draft anyway, leaving tons of space in between the current scene and the upcoming one.

What genre is your favorite to write? Read?

Chick-lit remains my all time favorite. Though it does have romantic themes, I like the challenge of women overcoming obstacles, not always in the context of a romantic relationship.

Do you have any favorite authors?

I enjoy ALL of Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte’s works. As far as modern writers go, Phillip Yancey is an amazing Christian writer. I also enjoy Sophie Kinsella’s work.

Is there a genre you haven't written, but would love to tackle in the future?

Maybe a Christian themed work.

What's planned next for your writing career?

I have three works of fiction I want to get out there, all in different stages of the writing process. I have completed a young adult, multicultural work. I am working to get that published. Another novel I have, more somber, more mature in nature, is about halfway completed. But my favorite work is the next book to The Obsessive-Compulsive series. I’m five chapters into it, and in mind it is all but completed.

Do you work well with deadlines?

I don’t have the pressure of too many deadlines, but I do work well with them. Helps me pace myself.

When did you first start writing?

Since I knew I could! I remember writing a story for my brothers when I was five. It was a picture book and had a plot and tragic ending. I took creative writing electives in high school, and in college, writing was my minor. I have been writing professionally for two years now.

What influenced you to submit your work for publication?

I had an idea for a story, typed it up in a matter of five months, and was ready to share it with the world. Well, the world wasn’t ready for the story, and in all honesty, the story isn’t ready of the world, but of course I couldn’t understand that at the time while receiving negative feedback. I then shifted my focus to writing online, fun little pieces for hungry (and highly encouraging) readers who didn’t mind passive voice dependency and comma abuse. That is how Erika and the OCD stories first began. The readers loved my work, and it caught the eye of the editor for Stonehedge Publishing. That opened the door to other places, and the rest is still evolving.

Do you belong to a critique group? If so-how does this help you? If not-would you ever consider joining one-if not- why do you think you work better alone?

I belonged to two critique groups at one time. They really were eye openers to my writing. Sometimes you think “this is the best thing I’ve ever written”…and then you have someone look it over, slice and splice it. Critique groups are not for the weak-hearted.

What is the best way for readers to contact you?

They can visit my site - I have my contact info there - or reach me through my blog. I’m flexible.

Any advice you want to give to aspiring writers?

Never give up. I never thought I’d be at this end of the writing spectrum, and there is still so much to do. I like writing; it’s as simple as that. Even if I wasn’t published, I would still continue to write. One way or another, my handiwork would be evident to others.

Anything you wish to add?

Just want to thank the people who encourage and strengthen me. Huge thanks to my readers, and though I know some of them, I’d like to know them all. J

Interview with author Kimberley Troutte

2009-07-27T09:40:00.000-07:00

Can you share a short bio with us?

In my previous lives I have been an accountant, substitute teacher, caterer, financial analyst for a major defense contractor, aerobics instructor, real-estate broker, freelance writer, homework corrector and caregiver to all the creatures my kids/hubby/dog drag in. I live with my husband of twenty plus years, two sons, one dog and three snakes in Southern California.

Tell us about your new release Catch Me in Castile from Samhain Publishing.

This novel is a Paranormal Romance, Romantic Suspense.

Here is the blurb:

Seeing dead people is bad enough. Loving him could make her one of them.

When the mother of all panic attacks prompts Erin Carter’s boss to pass her over for promotion, her mind doesn’t just crack. It explodes like an egg in a microwave, shattering her career along with the company car she crashes into the office building.

The death grip she’s kept on her sanity slipping, she takes a friend’s advice and flees to Spain. There she finds comfort in the healing arms of surgeon Santiago Botello—until a fifteenth-century ghost warns her that being with Santiago is dangerous, possibly even lethal.

Santiago has his hands full protecting his sister from a dark curse and his family from a very modern-day psychotic killer. The last thing he needs added to his plate is a neurotic American. Yet something about Erin tugs at his heart so hard he wants to wrap her in his arms and never let go. No matter the risk.

Erin’s attraction to Santiago makes her the killer’s next target. Survival means she must face her greatest fear, solve an ancient murder mystery—and hang on tight to the one man she’s fallen crazy in love with.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

In my heart-of-hearts? Forever. But for many years I wasn’t courageous enough to call myself a writer. Not out loud anyway. I wrote poems, short-stories and dreamed big dreams, but didn’t DO anything about it. I was scared. What if I turned out to be the writing version of William Hung from American Idol She-Banging myself into infamy? How could I live with myself if my one true dream…(gasp)…failed?

Then one summer my entire life changed—I became a mom. I realized that I wanted my boys to dream big dreams too, but more than that, I wanted them to fight for those dreams. Mom needed to grow a backbone. So I threw my hat into the ring and fought hard. I went to conferences, took classes, read, read, read, wrote, learned, improved, wrote some more. It hasn’t been easy, but the journey has made me stronger and a better writer. Shoot, it’s made me a better mom, too.

How long does it take you to write a book?

CATCH ME IN CASTILE is my 20-year book. No kidding. It was my first venture into fiction and I have rewritten it more times than I can count. But again, I was learning how to say I AM A WRITER out loud. And growing a backbone. Those things take time. Plus over the twenty years the story morphed completely. I changed characters, genres (I thought it was a straight Historical when I first started it, silly me), POVs, tenses, dialogue, settings, um, did I leave anything out?

I wrote SOUL STEALER in less than a year.

What do you want to know about the future?

Nothing. I like to keep the future a mystery. If I had even a glimpse of what’s to come, I might do something stupid—take a wrong turn, stumble, jump when I should wait, sit down when I should leap—and the whole future would be down the toilet. No way. I trust that I will be where I am supposed to be in the next five years, ten, twenty, and that I’ll be writing.

Are experiences in your books based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

Well, SOUL STEALER is about the bargain a young woman makes with Death. I am a healthy person, but who hasn’t pondered what they’d trade to live longer?

CATCH ME IN CASTILE is not based on anyone I know, but it features a woman with Anxiety Disorder who worries she is truly losing her mind. Again, who hasn’t worried about losing their minds? Wait…just me?

Both of these stories come from the “what-if” side of my brain. What if you met Death face-to-face and he was unbelievably H-O-T?

What if you thought you were losing your mind and then you started seeing a 15th Century ghost from Queen Isabella’s Court in Spain? What if the only person who could help you was a Spanish doctor who didn’t believe you? Oh, and he was H-O-T.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

I am a race-to-get-it-down as quickly as I can first-drafter. Then I go back and weave in more details. Again and again. I do several drafts and change lost of stuff before it’s done. I’m starting to think this isn’t the greatest approach in the world. But then again, it is thrilling. It’s like jumping on a runaway train. I generally know where the train is going, but sometimes it jumps the track and heads in a completely different direction.

Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

To dig deep, get to know my characters really well, then trust them. While I was writing CATCH ME I came to a screeching halt about 85% through. I couldn’t figure out why. I did some free-writing, letting the characters talk to one another and suddenly realized that one of them had a secret. She’d done something really, really horrible that I didn’t know about. (Okay, I know, looney bin time, right? Now you understand the worried about losing my mind thing.) This new piece of information became the turning point that drove the story.

What is planned for your writing in the future?

I am working on a sequel to CATCH ME IN CASTILE plus a children’s fiction novel, or three.

Do you have support from your friends and family? Or do you write in the closet?

I used to write in the closet (see answer to #3), but my family has always supported me. My sons are my beta readers for the children’s fiction. My husband doesn’t read romance (he’s a real man’s-man I tell ya), but he has always supported me, lifted me back up when the inevitable rejections flattened me, and has now read his first romance—SOUL STEALER.

Not everyone understands what a writer goes through, but my friends have always been there for me, never doubting, always getting my back.

Any advice for aspiring writers?

Keep going. You will never get there if you quit. Newbie writers get published all the time, why not you? BUT…there’s always a but and here comes mine…you have to do your part. Read, read, read. Learn what works and why. Take classes. Join writer’s groups. But most of all write. Practice makes perfect, or at least, better. Understand that the first book you sell might be the third one you write. It’s the practice makes better thing. And don’t give up. Rejections cut like a knife so slather on the healing balm of family and friends—those people who have faith in you and encourage you to keep going. The best advice of all: Don’t forget WHY you write. Look deep into yourself and figure out what it is that makes you want to do this crazy head banging against the wall. What’s in it for YOU? For me, it’s pure joy. When those characters come to life, beat all the odds, find everlasting love AND tell me stuff I didn’t now? Man, it’s my dark-chocolate bliss. I eat that stuff up.

What is the best way for readers to contact you?

My website www.kimberleytroutte.com, or blog http://kimberleytroutte.blogspot.com/ or email kimberleytroutte@verizon.net

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

Thank you so much for having me here and for reading. If you spend some of your hard earned time and money on my books, please drop me a line. I adore hearing from readers. It’s the whipped cream on my dark-chocolate bliss.

What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

I sneak in as much writing as possible when my sons are at school or during the late-late hours. I print my newly written chapters out and read them while I’m on the elliptical machine at the YMCA (while trying not to fall off), or at the park where my boys are playing, or in the car while I’m waiting for school to let out. I write every day except Sunday.

Anything you would like to comment about?

Thank you for having me. I really appreciate it!

Interview with author Viola Russell

2009-07-13T16:14:00.000-07:00

Mistress Bella: Welcom Viola, I'm so glad you agreed to this interview. I'm sure your fans and new readers will be happy to learn more about you. First, could you tell us what you are currently working on for publication or about your current release?

Viola Russell: My current release is “Buried Truths” with Sapphire Blue Publishing. It is a romance set in post-Katrina New Orleans. I also am working on two other projects.

MB: Could you please tell us a little about yourself?

Viola: I live in New Orleans with my dog. By day, I’m a high school English teacher. By night, I’m a budding writer. I say “budding,” but I’ve written most of my life. I’ve only recently been published.

MB: Give us a sneak peek into your book Buried Truths?

Viola: In “Buried Truths,” Heather Flanagan Kerry is shopping in a bookstore when a young woman named Sarah Cleveland asks Heather if she ever had a child and gave it up. Sarah explains that Heather has eyes just like Sarah’s husband, Ezra, who is adopted. Heather, now a professional woman, denies it, but she goes home and calls her high school love, Dr. Wesley Chou. He is now an oncologist. They meet but do not stay together. Later, Ezra and Sarah bring their infant daughter to Wesley. The child has leukemia, and Wesley contacts Heather as a potential donor. Wesley and Heather must decide if their love can withstand the passage of time, their own son’s anger, and the condemnation of society.

MB: Tell us about your writing process? Do you outline or just start writing?

Viola: My problem in the past used to be that I didn’t outline. I’d start writing and just keep moving. The problem is that I sometimes neglected the finer points of plot, character, etc. The story was good but not organized. Now, I’m making a more conscious attempt to outline and take voluminous notes. I write monologues in the voice of my characters and complete hours of research before I really get into individual scenes. I also write “facts” about characters, like what they like to eat or drink. If the novel is a period piece, I spend hours in the library. If the novel deals with an issue or illness, I research on those topics. For example, I researched leukemia and its treatment before I wrote about the disease in “Buried Truths.”

MB: What genre is your favorite to write? Read?

Viola: I’m not sure I subscribe to the concept of genre. I didn’t see myself as a romance writer, but I loved writing “Buried Truths.” I love writing mysteries, because to make a mystery successful, a writer has to devise an intricate plot. I also love period fiction—historical fiction, espionage fiction, and historical romance.

MB: Do you have any favorite authors?

Viola: I enjoy many different types of writers. Some of them are classic. Some are more modern. Charlotte Bronte, Charles Dickens, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Herman Melville, William Faulkner. I also love modern writers like James Lee Burke, Elizabeth George, Martha Grimes, C. S. Harris, Mary Higgins Clark, Rexanne Becnel, A. S. Byatt, Sena Nasland, Tracy Chevalier.

MB: Is there a genre you haven't written, but would love to tackle in the future?

Viola: As I’ve said, I’ve written most of my life. I need to revise a mystery I’ve completed, but I also am working on a romance/thriller set in WWII.

MB: What's planned next for your writing career?

Viola: I have to write while I work, so I take one day at a time. I’d love to publish the mystery once it is revised. I need to complete the WWII piece because that’s a Valentine to my mom and her generation. I wish she’d lived to see all that’s happening for me. I’m excited about the WWII manuscript because I have to incorporate romance and suspense.

MB: Do you work well with deadlines?

Viola: I find that I do. When I was editing “Buried Truths” with my wonderful editor, Tina Gerow, I learned that set deadlines force me to work. For that matter, I was the same in college. My best papers were written right before the due date.

MB: When did you first start writing?

Viola: I was about eight. I’d read “Black Beauty” and knew I wanted to be a writer. I wrote a story with animal characters. My mom liked it. Then, I read “Little Women” and wrote a different type of story.

MB: What influenced you to submit your work for publication?

Viola: --My local RWA chapter, SOLA, sent out an e-mail saying that SBP was looking for manuscripts. I submitted by manuscript, and it was accepted.

MB: Do you belong to a critique group? If so-how does this help you? If not-would you ever consider joining one-if not- why do you think you work better alone?

Viola: I belong to a workshop group that’s more like a class. I like workshops/critique groups when they are very structured and organized. Those types of groups only work when the group is very structured.

MB: What is the best way for readers to contact you?

Viola: Readers can leave a message on my website at www.violarussell.com. I also am on MySpace at www.myspace/violaruss and on Facebook at www.facebook/violrussell.

MB: Any advice you want to give to aspiring writers?

Viola: Develop a thick skin. You will be rejected. Work on your craft. Join professional organizations. Take classes or workshops. See if they help.

MB: Anything you wish to add?

Viola: I want to thank Mistress Bella for allowing me this opportunity to write my thoughts. I also would love to thank the folks at Sapphire Blue for publishing a manuscript that was near and dear to my heart.

Please visit Viola Russell's site

Go to Sapphire Blue Publishing to purchase Buried Truths

Thank you so much Viola for stopping by for this interview. We will be on the look out for more books you publish. Stop by again:-)

Mistress Bella