Hi Kelly and welcome!
What has been your biggest influence on becoming a writer?
I think being a self-professed 90s kid was the big deal. In the 90s, we had this thing called the animation renaissance. We got the best cartoons the world had ever seen, and with most of the artist and writers among us, it instilled a belief that it was our duty to equal that beauty and imaginative quality of those works.
How did you feel when you got your first publishing contract?
Because of the current recession (let’s not kid ourselves, it’s an economic depression with a smiley face sticker), my heart jumped for joy! Like so many people my age who got robbed of all of the promises for the future we had been raised with, this was a glimmer of light in a dark cave.
How do you categorize yourself: pantser or plotter?
Texan. Maybe pantser. I start with a decade, and a singular character I like the idea of, and apply the story around that character.
What makes a book great in your eyes?
The ability to learn and feel from it. All the schmaltzy schlock that news anchors and celebrities in the world pile into pages just to sell a cheesy book is what’s killing the writer’s job. Those books have no feeling, or depth.
What is the biggest piece of your advice you can give a beginning writer?
Research all options, even strange and non-traditional ones, investigate new genres, and never give up. Did we surrender at the Alamo, no! The Mexican empire won, but only by default. (all the Texians died)
Do you have any guilty pleasures?
I don’t do anything I’d feel guilty about, like stealing. If it’s something like fudge or real Virginia ham, why would I feel guilty? My hips, my body, my rules. My ham, don’t touch.
What influences your writing? And why?
A desire to teach, and help others by any means necessary.
Name one thing readers don’t know about you.
I don’t care for coconut. It’s not the flavor, but the texture.
What are you working on now?
Whatever the editor and boss say to. (I bow before Tina and Jay) Seriously, a new and soon to be finished gay (m/m), regency era romance, set during the Texas revolution.
Who is your favorite all-time author?
Herman Melville, or R.L. Stine. What? I’m a 90s kid, I can like Stine if I want.
Are love scenes easy/difficult to write?
Only ones that are forced from the author, ones that I don’t care about.
If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?
Over the grave of Jimmy Hoffa, or the grave of Genghis Khan. Just so we’d know where to dig.
How do you deal with the dreaded writer’s block?
Bourbon, and staring at a picture of the Kiowa war chief Sitting Bear, and Walt Disney. I hate Disney so much. Happy now?
Do you have another career besides writing? What is it?
Embalming.
What’s your biggest reward in being a writer?
If you have ever learned something from my books, that’s my reward.
If you had the opportunity to say one thing to your readers, what would that be?
Don’t touch my ham, kidding—do what is right, even if it is hard, even if you do it alone. Do what is right.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Author spotlight with Kelly Jacobs
Monday, October 25, 2010
Author spotlight with Kelly Jacob’s, Tom
Hi! I’m Tom, and I’m in a book. I think this is where the rest of the group stands up and groans hi Tom. No? Okay. I was born in Texas, not south Oklahoma, and I joined the Marines a few years ago. When I lost my leg I was put in a German hospital, where I met the cutest guy. His name is Jake, and he’s just... wow.
Do you have special abilities?
Well, I’m gay and I don’t know any show tunes, I don’t have anything with glitter on it, oh, and I can field strip an AR15 in 20 seconds. Does that count?
Tell me about your most current adventure.
Let’s see, Kelly had this early Texas, Alamo thing she’s working on. It sounds kind of neat, but I heard she’s going to have buffalo in it. I clean up goat mess on a regular basis, but a buffalo? She is way too patient.
If you could offer your author advice, what would it be?
Stop being so serious. Really, Kelly, when I said Adam Lambert was making me hot, I saw you turn the AC down. God, she is so literal, I told her it was chilly outside, and she got a bowl and some crackers.
Are you happy with the way people perceive you?
I had a reader come up to me and ask me about saving money, like I’m some kind of econo-guru. She was really sweet, but Kelly put a little too much detail in the book. Aside from that, all of the readers have been super-supportive.
Does your author ever try to take over the story? And how do you deal with it?
Kelly is well meaning, but every now and then I just wanna smack her. Kidding, only kidding. She could kick my butt.
Is expressing love difficult for you? Why?
It’s not difficult in a private sense, but with Janie around, and the way a lot of people see me and Jake, it can get frustrating.
What is the most interesting thing that has happened to you?
Aside from getting my leg blown off, and the court battle? Maybe this time when me and Jake were hiking in the woods, and, well... take a guest.
Is there a message you want to get across in this interview?
Not really, but as for Kelly, can you say preachy? I was at her place last week, and she gave me a guide to canning with jars. We get it, girl. God, she’s so cheap.
If you could time travel, where would you go?
The fifties or the forties. I love the cars, the food, the decor, and that old rock and roll. Like with Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, Little Richard, and Chuck Berry. Not so much with the politics of the time, but I’d try to fix what I could.
What has been your all time favorite question from another character?
I really wasn’t asked a lot, but being fiction based, we non-existent characters get to meet so many other characters. Did you know Daffy really hated Bugs, learned to smoke cigars from Groucho, and was Jewish? Pretty cool, huh?
What was the best sexual experience you’ve had?
Defiantly my first time with Jake, it’s all in the book.
Is there a question you wish I had asked but didn’t?
I wish I would have asked Tina if they had chorizo, cabrito or regular food in Canada. We went to visit her, and there were ketchup flavored chips, no jalapenos, and gravy on the French fires. It was surreal.
What are your opinions on Jake?
He’s my world, without him, I’d be alone, and depressed, and without barbeque. God, that man can smoke meat.
What are the pros and cons to being a gay?
The pro is that we can wear anything we want, and help out straight guys with meeting girls. The con is, well, we’re in Texas.
How does one become a cool uncle?
The real trick is to just do some things that parents won’t do but keep it within reason. A sip of beer or wine is okay, a jug is not. Let them curse at your place when the parents are out, let them hold your cigar in front of their friends while you go get a beer, and teach them something cool, like guitar playing, or how to play poker. One of Jake’s cousin’s sons came over, and Jake taught him how to pick up a girl. I was surprised he knew how.
Describe your best kill. Why was it the best?
[n/a] After the military, I was done with that. Let’s not talk about it.
What makes being with a virgin the best sexual experience?
Jake was just so innocent and sweet the first time. Have you ever held a scarred kitten, it was like that, but with bodily fluids.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Character spotlight with Gwen Campbell’s, Jarek
Click here to purchase The Muse
What makes you special?
What makes me special? To be honest, I’m having a hard time answering that. In my time (about five-hundred years from now) art has become the new demigod. I’m a model you see. For a time I was popular and in demand. Then I got older and my looks became unfashionable. Oh I still dreamed about modeling contracts, but my day job (I’m a dock foreman) built up too much muscle. That ruined any boyish beauty I might have once had. The artist who discovered me thinks I’m special though. She’s a terrific lady. I hope she’ll be my lady, one day.
Anyway, despite life’s ups and downs, I’m a confident guy. I believe in myself. My friends are guys of good character and we have a good time together. I believe in my artist, too. Now there’s a lady life’s thrown a few curves at.
Tell me about your most current adventure.
Sometimes life just hands you a pile of luck, you know? That’s what happened to me. For some reason I still can’t understand, a master artist picked me out in a crowded bar. I didn’t even recognize her at first. When I saw her, I was blown away by her soft curves and that gorgeous red hair of hers. Staying professional was hard when she asked me to strip down for her and pose—at her place, not the bar. I’ll let Gwen tell you about it…
“Are you ready to begin?” Calla asked after a time. She smiled at him gently.
“Yes,” Jarek nodded firmly. “How would you have me pose, Master?”
“Nothing so grand yet, Jarek.” Calla waved her hand and grinned. “Not today anyway. If I may, I’d like to see what I have to work with, then I’ll spend some time thinking about how best to portray those admirable qualities that drew me to you.” She couldn’t be sure but she thought he blushed. “If you are ready, please remove your shirt.”
She watched to see how readily or how awkwardly he’d obey. She’d asked about his experience in an effort to carry on a conversation with this stranger but also to find out if he had any legitimate modeling experience. If he’d know how to pose or arrange his body when asked, how to hold a pose without becoming fatigued. She’d been shocked to learn he’d had not one but several bad experiences and from the sounds of it, he hadn’t done much work since. She wondered if he was past them.
Jarek hesitated for only a second, then he stood and slowly began unbuttoning his shirt.
Calla stood and started to move around him, giving him a wide berth so he wouldn’t feel crowded. “I will observe your torso from every angle, Jarek,” she told him calmly and matter-of-factly. “Your torso and your face.”
“Not my—?”
“I will not need to see your genitals unless I am going to paint them, Jarek,” she explained quickly. “I am not ready to paint you yet and asking you to display yourself before then would be a misuse of your trust.”
His gaze lifted to hers and tracked her movement as she moved to his side. He felt something pass between them. Perhaps it was the trust she spoke of. Jarek’s expression said he felt confident and beautiful. Straightening his shoulders, he undid the rest of his buttons slowly and with obvious deliberation, then let his sturdy linen shirt slip off his back.
Calla had to work hard not to gasp. Jarek’s shoulders were indeed a sensual delight, broad, sculpted and striated and his skin shimmered with golden warmth in the midday light. His shirt fell past his buttocks as he slipped his hands out of the sleeves. Calla felt like she was being teased, perhaps even seduced by the slow deliberation of his movements, although she did not mind. She chewed on her lower lip as he casually laid the shirt across one of the chairs. He straightened to his full height, lifted his chin and stood still.
The smooth line of Jarek’s skin was broken by the defined ridges and dips of a full, pronounced and very male musculature. His lats fanned out in a mouth-watering arc, the muscular ridges on either side of his spine were deep, powerful and flawless. The muscles at the base of his neck flared out over his shoulders and provided the perfect shelf for the tips of his dark, curling hair to brush against.
“May I touch you?” Calla asked before she was aware the question was in her head. She was surprised her voice was steady.
“Of course,” Jarek answered without a trace of self-consciousness. He dipped his head to one side at the sound of her approach. His only reaction to her small, warm fingers on his skin was a catch in his breath he couldn’t hold back.
Calla locked her knees to keep them from shaking. Her reaction to this vital and profoundly masculine man was even stronger in the quiet of her patio than it had been in the noisy animated tavern. Struggling to keep her breathing even, Calla ran her fingers down one side of Jarek’s back. His skin seemed unnaturally soft although it was taut and she could practically feel the strength humming through him. Slowly and methodically, she explored every dip and swell of muscle after muscle. She stroked his back, his spine, the dimples that graced the expanse of skin just above his belt…just above the rise of his perfect buttocks. She touched the backs of his arms, wrapped her fingers slowly around his biceps and tested the resiliency of his skin. She breathed him in—man and spice and what had to be a pheromone because she started breathing a little deeper and her cleft grew damp. Her nipples hardened and Calla fought not to lean into him and comfort their nagging arousal with the pressure of his body against hers.
Jarek’s breath caught when she swirled her fingernails over the inside of his forearms. He straightened his fingers when she caressed them. He almost captured her hands in his but relaxed at the last minute, letting her fingers slip out of his grasp. Calla lost all track of time as she stroked the sides of Jarek’s body, seeing, feeling and scenting him with a growing need that trampled all boundaries of professional propriety.
Deliberately, she stepped away from him. She moistened her lips and trembled from head to toe. “Thank you. You can get dressed,” she managed to say without her voice breaking, picked up his shirt and handed it to him. Calla kept her hands firmly at her side when Jarek turned around to face her. His slipped his shirt back on with a slowness that almost had her ripping it back off his perfect, powerful torso.
“Did I pass the audition?” he asked with what sounded like deliberate audaciousness.
This time, Calla blushed. “Definitely,” she breathed and fanned herself theatrically.
Jarek grinned contentedly. He finished buttoning his shirt and tucked it into his pants. “When do I start?” he asked.
Calla walked back to the table, picked up her cup of now cold tea and sipped it—more to give herself a second to breathe away from Jarek’s powerful sensuality than anything else. “Any time tomorrow. I can’t promise I’ll come up with anything brilliant by then but we will work through a few ideas.”
Jarek nodded sagely, then ruined the effect by grinning down at her boyishly. “Any time tomorrow? How about one minute after midnight?”
“One minute after midnight and you’ll catch me in my bedclothes.”
The intensity in Jarek’s dark blue eyes jumped. He’d like to catch her in her bed and wondered how she’d react if he asked to take her there now. He leaned over the table, watching her predatorily. Calla’s breathing jumped and her nipples grew hard again.
Something in her expression shifted, like he was overwhelming her or she was unprepared for the unexpected heat rising between them. Moved by compassion, Jarek was the first to look away. “Okay,” he said casually. “Two minutes after midnight then.”
Calla laughed. “Anytime after sunrise will do nicely.”
“Agreed.” Grinning, Jarek turned away. It seemed like a long time since he’d felt this good about himself. As he left the patio, he paused beside the marble statuette and looked at it once more. Like before, he laid his hand on the base. “What will it feel like,” he asked himself more than her, “to be immortalized like this? What did your model say when he saw this completed?”
Calla’s mouth thinned. “He did not see it completed. He left me before it was finished. That is the last rendering I ever did of my ex-husband.”
Jarek’s gaze rose slowly to hers and, guardedly, he watched Callandria’s face for anger, tears—even resentment, but found none. He let out a breath he hadn’t known he was holding.
“If even the greatest fool of our time can be so perfectly cast, then there is indeed hope for me yet.” He took her hand and pressed a lingering kiss to her palm. “Until tomorrow, Callandria,” he said quietly, bowed his head and left.
If you could offer your author advice, what would it be?
I wish she’d find a way to keep my artist’s dirt-bag ex-husband out of the picture. The guy’s a narcissistic jerk who’s happiest when he’s running Calla down.
Are you happy with the way people perceive you?
I guess I don’t think about it much. Like I said before, I’m a pretty confident guy. Sure I wish my life had been different…before now that is. I wanted to contribute to the arts, to support myself through modeling. That didn’t happen and I accept that. I treat people the way I’d like to be treated. Just don’t confuse my easy-going nature with an inability to step up in someone’s defense if it’s called for.
Is humor important? Why or why not?
Humor? Absolutely. Like it was five-hundred years ago, life sucks sometimes. People treat you like dirt. If you rise above that, don’t let yourself sink down to other people’s level, you’ll be okay. Humor helps me do that.
Is expressing love difficult for you? Why?
When I was younger, yes. Nowadays, I’m more open to new experiences, feelings. Take my relationship with my artist for example. She’s a tough, classy lady whose ex betrayed her. To this day, he won’t lay off trying to grind down her spirit, even her credibility in the art world. Whenever Calla needs it, I make sure I’m there, supporting her, reminding her how terrific she is. I also can’t lay off staring at that great ass of hers whenever I get the chance. I like how it lights up her eyes whenever she catches me.
Share a little bit of the ‘real’ you with our readers. Any Dark secrets?
Yeah, I’ve got a few. I’m not proud of it, but when I was younger, I took some questionable modeling jobs. The kind where rich men gather around a private studio and the models assume various grappling poses. Nude of course. Hints of forced seduction, defilements…that sort of thing. I’m a big guy and I make other models look defenseless by comparison. I left the work when I realized these so-called artists were more interested in watching than sketching. And that they wanted me to move far more than pose. Calla hit the nail on the head when she referred to that kind of session as life sex shows under the guise of art. She never looked down on me after I told her though. Like I said, she’s a terrific lady.
What has been your all time favorite question from another character?
It was the day Calla came down to the docks and talked my boss into donating my work hours so I could work with her full time. As I was leaving, one of the guys I work with asked, “When will you be back and does she have a sister?” My answer? “If she had a sister she’d be far too good for the likes of you. As to when I’ll be back…I’ll be back after I’ve been immortalized.”
What was the best sexual experience you’ve had?
This is just between you and me, right? I’m not a kiss and tell kind of guy. There was this one morning…Calla was working in her studio. Life had been messing around with her, again, but despite that, she’d had a breakthrough. She was working on this wax model. A sculpture of me, of course. *wink* I was just so floored by her amazing talent I dropped to the tiles, sat between her knees and started kissing her…well, you get the point. She’s the kind of lady you want to worship, even if it means your balls ache for the rest of the day. I’m pretty sure she’ll make it up to me though.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Author spotlight with Gwen Campbell
What has been your biggest influence on becoming a writer?
Getting downsized from my job. No, really. I’ve always written (little stories and plays for my friends when I was kid, then historical romances that didn’t sell. Hundreds of magazine articles that did sell.) When I got downsized, I had a window of opportunity (before the bank balance got to zero) to focus on writing romance. I learned how to be real professional about the industry, how to read my work critically and accept and learn from the criticism of others, parked my butt in the chair and kept it there while I worked at my craft.
How did you feel when you got your first publishing contract?
Relieved. Like all those hours and all those sacrifices my husband made so I could stay home and pound the keyboard had been worth it. I may write about delicious alpha males, but HE’S my hero.
How do you categorize yourself: pantser or plotter?
A plotter, definitely. When I gave my life over to writing full time and ran the risk of dragging my family’s financial future down the drain with me if I failed, I put on my big-girl panties and approached writing like I would any business plan. I didn’t have time to waste on false starts or massaging a temperamental muse. What I’ve got is an on-going idea file. The genesis for a book might be a single picture in my head, a single scene or a character. That information gets added to the idea file. Over time, as I go back to the file again and again, that original nugget gets expanded on. Or not, depending. After awhile (some quicker than others) the idea for that book evolves into a fully realized plot outline, complete with fleshed-out characters, conflicts, over-arcing themes and (if I’m lucky) subtext.
Do you have any guilty pleasures?
Chocolate. Hands down. And there’s actually NO guilt involved. Next question?
What are you working on now?
A Halloween-themed book about a time-traveler from the future and a DEA agent. She transports into his house because she needs a place to stay and faulty information told her he’s out of town on assignment. He wakes up in the middle of the night to find her standing in front of his open refrigerator, naked, drinking milk straight out of the carton. Like most of my books, there’s a dog in this one. A beagle named Toby. He’s not a time traveler though. He’s just cute.
Who is your favorite all-time author?
That’s assuming there’s only one. So many different genres and writing styles turn me on. I like Ann Maxwell’s early stuff. Stephen King, Patrick O’Brien. I used to be a massive Elizabeth George fan, but after fourteen books, she made her Inspector Lynley unlikable. I often wonder if it was deliberate, like Arthur Conan Doyle made Sherlock Holmes jump off a waterfall, killing him so Doyle wouldn’t have to write about him anymore.
What’s your biggest reward in being a writer?
Paying back my local writing community. I remember those depressing years when I would use up my spare time writing one historical romance after another. I’d send out dozens of query letters and never get anything more than a standard rejection form…if I got a reply at all. I’m now a member of a local writers’ group and Romance Writers of America. At the meetings, it’s great talking writing and just listening to other people, but if I’m asked, I’m privileged to share whatever insights I have about the industry, getting published…but mostly I encourage, encourage, encourage.
If you had the opportunity to say one thing to your readers, what would that be?
Thank you! Really, really thank you.
www.GwenCampbell.net
Monday, October 4, 2010
Character spotlight with Mahalia Levey’s, Merikano Varadi
Here’s the buy link
What makes you special?
What can I say; I’m a one-of-a kind type of male.
What differentiates you from your kind? Do you have special abilities?
I possess both the genes of a Hawk and Cheetah. Special ablilities? Now that would be telling. But I do this and that. Work for a high profile shifter.
Tell me about your most current adventure.
Merikano’s Fury is a fast paced read, filled with tales of one woman oblivious to danger and the handsome as the devil male, *me* who get to chase after her and keep her safe.
Excerpt
Dare followed at a distant pace, watching her move along the people crowding the paved walkway. He watched her flutter around with her fuzzy hood, taking pictures of any and everything. Damned crazy woman. He froze his gonads off while following her.
He picked up his cell and got the voicemail for the CEO. “You so owe me, you lucky bastard. Next time you wish a tail on someone, make it someone who uses a car and has enough sense to stay out of the elements instead of some quirky crazy chick that’s snapping pictures of people she doesn’t know.” He slammed his phone shut and weaved through the people. He couldn’t wait to catch up to her and grill her for her inept way of placing herself in danger.
His wish came true as she turned and boarded the A-Train. Finally, he shook his head. He had a way to confront her without causing a stir, a way to talk with her and not give away his position. Deryck and his damned ideas! He blew warm air on his hands and rubbed them together. For damn sure he’d be wearing a full-length leather trench tomorrow, provided he couldn’t sway her to stay indoors.
He leaned against a pole in the fifth car. The jam-packed car made it hard to move at this time of day. He watched through the glass, using his hawk’s eye, where she stood three cars up, her camera poised as she snapped pictures of the train’s occupants. He wondered when someone would take her camera and shove it up her ass. She’d been riding the same car all week, taking pictures of the same people. Of course, they could think that she was some freak stalker. He heaved his lean body off the stationary metal pole and walked, holding onto the hand straps as he went from train-car to train-car. He stopped in her car and just watched her watching others. “A watcher of people, not birds,” he whispered, a hairsbreadth from behind her.
Krissy turned around, mace out and ready. “Excuse me?”
“If you watch them or take any more pictures, they might mob you.” He then motioned to the annoyed faces and tense bodies of the train’s inhabitants.
Krissy looked at him and narrowed her eyes. “I know you…” She frowned, as if trying to place where she knew him.
“Dare,” he replied, trying to help her to remember.
“Ohh, you look different with clothes on.” She laughed out loud, oblivious to the questioning gazes of the fellow passengers whose attention was now riveted on the tall, dark man looming over the petite brunette who’d been invading their privacy.
“Do I now?” Dare laughed and then plucked a broken branch from the fur surrounding her face. “Warm enough there, Eskimo?”
Krissy laughed. “Well, you were in nothing but a sheet last time I saw you and then you dropped it.” She blushed.
“Was it so bad?” He couldn’t help but to egg her on.
“You’re the perfect image of the man my ma said to stay away from. You know, you and Truth had a lot of fun making fun of my innocence when you both double teamed me at the shoot.” She shook her head and moved a step away from him.
“We didn’t tag team you, per say. We just persuaded you to try and think of new things.”
Krissy choked. “I had on the most God awful ensemble for the shoot, Mr. Romance Novel model,” she pushed.
“Like you said, I’m every woman’s dream,” he quipped back.
“You’re ruining my project,” she replied with a frown.
“You’re project isn’t safe.” He couldn’t help but gaze into her eyes and take in her flushed face.
“It’s safe enough that I’m not harming anything.” She was becoming exasperated.
“Okay, tell me that running in Central Park or going through Battery Park at dusk is a safe thing for a lone female to do?”
“Spying on me, Dare?” She raised a brow, the mace container still primed and aimed for his face. She smirked, obviously certain he couldn’t see her little device in the palm of her gloved hand.
Dare’s reflexes were quick—lightning quick, to be exact. He took her off balance and pulled her small body against his lean one. Her back hit his chest as his arms wrapped around her wrist. Krissy turned inward to break his hold, but encountered his thighs, preventing her from moving, the steel pole and seats preventing her from going elsewhere. The occupants seemed to be enjoying her folly. She stepped on the instep of his foot and jabbed back with her elbow, encountering rock hard abs.
“Okay,” she grumbled.
Dare didn’t fall for her mechanisms. As he let her loose, he gripped the hold on her wrist so that the tube cylinder would roll out onto the floor. He caught it with the instep of his boot and launched it upward into his palm before handing it back to her. “You don’t need to be spied on. You do the most insane things that are apparent. If you want to live long, then blend in. If you don’t, then keep doing what you are doing and you’ll end up raped and mutilated before you can say help,” he enunciated.
“I have mace,” she said.
“That would be the same mace I just disarmed you with. In a public setting full of people,” he vocalized. “Mace won’t help you against beasts of the night, sweetheart.”
“Quit following me. What are you, a stalker?” she shrieked and gathered her things closer to her.
Dare looked at her. “Look, I’m not stalking you, Krissy. I just have been in the neighborhood and witnessed for myself the way you innocently place yourself in harm’s way.”
Krissy flushed red with annoyance. “I’m not changing my schedule for a what if. The chances of someone attacking me are zilch. I’m perfectly safe with my own safety devices and besides, I know self-defense.” She crossed her arms in defiance.
“Suit yourself, sweetheart. Just don’t get mad when I say I told you so.” He tapped his finger on the tip of her nose and jaunted past her to make his way out of the subway.
If you could offer your author advice, what would it be?
To mind her own. She has a habit of interfering in things that don’t pertain to her. I’m a man, Krissy is my woman. I hardly need a woman to tell me how to take care of what’s mine.
Are you happy with the way people perceive you?
At first I wasn’t. I mean, I’m a man. We chase skirts, until a good one comes along and we want to change. There’s nothing worse than a broad thinkin we’re unsavory.
If you could pull your author into your world, what do you think would happen to them?
She wouldn’t last a minute. I’d have to coral her muse and have a hero made for her to keep her safe…from herself. Okay, so she’s talented in bringing us out. I’ve met many a chick in her mind and seen the outcome. C’mon, they have to get their traits somewhere besides a psych research book. My bet is they’re more like her than she knows. She’d need a strong man like me to keep tabs on her alright.
What was the best sexual experience you’ve had?
Waiting excruciating months to mark Krissy. The wait was definitely an experience, I’ve never had and never will again.
Does shifting hurt?
When I was in puberty. You get used to it though.
Share a little bit of the ‘real’ you with our readers. Any Dark secrets? I’m a simple man. I have simple tastes. As for Dark Secrets, that’s classified information. I may look and be a romance cover model, and damn good at it…but my real job consists of much, much more.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Surrounded by laughing children. *Grins* I plan on practicing real hard to make it a reality.
What kind of abilities do you get when you become a cheetah?
About the same as any shifter. I’m stronger, faster than any other shifter. My eyesight and sense of smell is enhanced. When I kill, and, I do kill, blood sustains me more than water.
Is silver dangerous for you or is that a myth?
Hell no, it’s a myth, although any type of bullet hurts like a son of a, so does being stabbed.
Thank you for your time.
It’s been pleasant, though not as pleasant as laying with my girl. You can find my author at her website. I’m aiming for brownie points. Rhaikar is determined to get revenge. I’m determined to ensure it doesn’t happen.
http://www.mahalialevey.com/
Monday, September 27, 2010
Author spotlight with Dianna Hunter
Thanks for agreeing to the interview.
What has been your biggest influence on becoming a writer?
Writing has allowed me to release all those emotions and stories beating against the walls of my brain.
What makes a book great in your eyes?The ability to keep a reader’s attention and put him inside the character’s skin.
What is the biggest piece of your advice you can give a beginning writer?
Write what you feel—no matter what it is. If you feel pain, put it on paper—if you are feeling erotic, tell us about it, etc.
What are you working on now?
The new title is Daemon Hunter. Leanna is a world-walker from the world of Haiti. She is tracking a rogue wizard through the Chain of worlds to rescue her brothers. Her biggest challenge is the chance encounter with other races who may mistake her for the fabled demons of their own mythology for Lea is a tall, slender young woman—with scaled bronze-gold skin, red/gold eyes and a magnificent set of horns curling through her locks of forest-green hair.
Are love scenes easy/difficult to write?
It is both for no matter how much fantasy is involved, there is always just that touch of someone remembered and loved.
Do you write in one genre or several different ones? And why?
Fantasy is the world I feel most at home.
If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?
On the beach.
How do you deal with the dreaded writer’s block?
I take a couple of days off and do something else—I take pictures or just read a book by one of my favorite authors to take my mind away from my own world.
Do you have another career besides writing? What is it?
I am a photographer.
What’s your biggest reward in being a writer?
I get to take some of the chaos out of my mind and organize it on paper.
To date, which is your favorite story? Which one did you have the most fun writing?
I think like The Druid’s Revenge the best. It was originally titled Hear the Wind Cry because it was how I heard the story told. I like Mariah’s way of gathering her power to her and coping with her inner pain.
How do you go about developing your characters and setting?
A character comes to me of her own and the world forms around us. Anything from a newspaper story to a real event can instigate this. In The Druid’s Captive, the murder at the beginning of the story was real—perhaps the perpetrator was not a big man in black but—well, they never did catch him.
If you had the opportunity to say one thing to your readers, what would that be?
Just keep on dreaming – and writing it down to share!
Monday, September 20, 2010
Author spotlight with Thadd Evans
Thanks for agreeing to the interview. Tell us, what has been your biggest influence on becoming a writer?
In elementary school, junior high, senior high and college, teachers praised me for my short stories and essays. In high school, my English teacher said, "You're the only one in my class who has anything to say. Write more!"
How did you feel when you got your first publishing contract?
I was shocked, in a good way.
What makes a book great in your eyes?
It makes you laugh, think, imagine and hope. It opens your mind to many possibilities.
What is the biggest piece of your advice you can give a beginning writer?
Read Elements of Style by Strunk and White and The First Five Pages, Staying out of the Rejection Pile, by Noah Lukeman. Also, write as much as you can and join a writer's group. That is an over simplification, but it's a start.
What influences your writing? And why?
Images in my head, movies, books, newspaper articles. For about thwenty-five years, I read about quantum mechanics, a field that is so weird, so fantastic that it boggles the mind. Why? Because these provoke my imagination.
What are you working on now?
Beyond Portal 2212, a science fiction novel about a group of cloned humans who are trying to survive in an alternate universe.
Who is your favorite all-time author?
It's a tossup between James Joyce, author of Portrait of an Artist as a Young Man and Josesph Heller, author of Catch-22.
How do you deal with the dreaded writer’s block?
I get tired, but I never have to deal writer's block.
What’s your biggest reward in being a writer?
Today, it's the fact that my stories are the best way to articulate my ideas about the future. Although movies like Terminator and Blade Runner and other movies deal with that topic, there are many possible futures.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Author spotlight with Viola Grace
Dear Viola,Pantser all the way. Every time I plot, it goes off in a different direction.
Emotional development of a character. If the characters don’t evolve, then what is the point? I want the females and the males to come to realizations and discover a part of their personality that they had forgotten about.
Write, finish, submit. Write again.
If you don’t’ finish something, then you will never know if your writing can stand on its own. Choose your genre by writing a book you enjoy, not by what you think someone else may like. If you are lucky, your passion for your topic will come through and then your audience will come.
Are love scenes easy/difficult to write?
A love scene is easy. A sex scene is difficult. With a love scene, I am concentrating on the feelings of the couple. The sensations, the seduction of the senses. With sex scenes, you have to break it down to the physical, steps in a dance. If someone steps on the other’s toes, the music stops.
Do you write in one genre or several different ones? And why?
I write in both Urban romantic fantasy and in erotic romantic fantasy. I started in erotic writing because I knew I could do it well, but as I have evolved, the urge to tell the story has become all-consuming. It is easier to write an action/romance without having to work in a detailed sex scene.
How do you deal with the dreaded writer’s block?
I call my friends and bitch about it. I craft, craft, do housework, craft, chat online and when my brain feels it is time, I go back to writing.
What’s your biggest reward in being a writer?
Fan mail. I LOVE fan mail. I have suspected that someone is reading my work, but getting emails from readers makes my day. Better than a good review any day.
To date, which is your favorite story? Which one did you have the most fun writing?
Freak Factor is my current favourite story. The most fun one as well. Creating superheroes in space makes the Sector Guard my favourite set of books in general. They were all fun to write.
How do you go about developing your characters and setting?
For setting, I create a place where the characters can get together with a slight amount of privacy. The logic behind their seclusion has to make sense. As for characters, I pick a personality trait that I want the character to embody and I build the character around it.
If you had the opportunity to say one thing to your readers, what would that be?
Thank you so much for letting me do what I love for a living!
http://www.violagrace.com/
viola@violagrace.com
Monday, September 6, 2010
Author spotlight with Jon Bradbury
Dear Jon,
First, thanks for agreeing to the interview.
Tell us, what has been your biggest influence on becoming a writer?
Not so much what as who. Five people, my high school English teacher, Mr. Sorgent, was the first person to make me realize I could be a writer. My college Journalism Professor, Francis Garland, and two guys I both knew and worked with on the college newspaper, Don McGee and Steve Elliot, plus a drama professor, Jerry O‘Donnell.
How did you feel when you got your first publishing contract?
It was very exciting, but anti-climactic as well. I didn’t even speak to the person on the phone. All contact was through email. I submitted the manuscript. I got an email back saying, We like it but we need you to make changes. I made the changes and sent it back in. Then I got an email back saying, Here’s your contract.
What makes a book great in your eyes?
A book needs primary characters someone can relate to and imagine knowing. Strong vivid writing to place the reader in the moment as the events in the story are happening. Strong character and plot development.
What is the biggest piece of your advice you can give a beginning writer?
Read as much as you can from as many different sources as possible—books, magazines, newspapers, online articles, blogs, to get exposure to as many different writing styles as possible.
Do you have any guilty pleasures?
Baywatch.
What influences your writing? And why?
A lot of pop culture, like music and music videos, gives me material for stories. Personal experience or that of others.
Name one thing readers don’t know about you.
I love cartoons—Bugs Bunny, Elmer Fudd, Daffy Duck, ect.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on several stories right now—a sequel to Diamonds Are Forever, a story called One Good Reason, about two people in the Air Force who meet in Paris, and several other stories in various stages.
Who is your favorite all-time author?
Michael Crichton, Jurassic Park
Are love scenes easy/difficult to write?
Love scenes are usually difficult to write, but fun. You would think love scenes would be easy to write, but there are a lot of details involved. Much like porn movies, you have to plan the situation, where they’re at, what they’re wearing, positions, what they do, ect. It’s fun but it can be difficult.
Do you write in one genre or several different ones? And why?
I write urban contemporary romance, but I am interested in branching out into swords-and-sorcery stories, and I have an idea for a vampire story. I don’t want to muscle in on anyone‘s action, I just think it would be fun to write other types of stories. Maybe one will see the light of day.
If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?
Anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere. Or maybe just Baja LOL.
How do you deal with the dreaded writer’s block?
I recognize that I’m trying too hard. I give myself a break and do something completely different to give my brain a vacation.
Do you have another career besides writing? What is it?
Well, as of this interview, I am unfortunately not employed. But for the last several years I have worked in call centers.
What’s your biggest reward in being a writer?
Knowing people are reading my books. Hopefully they like them.
To date, which is your favorite story? Which one did you have the most fun writing?
Wow, that’s a tough one. But I would have to say my favorite would be Midnight Blue. The one that was most fun to write was Infidelity. I let my inner bad boy out to play.
How do you go about developing your characters and setting?
I start with a character, either male or female, and put them in a situation, either good or bad, one they want to stay in or get out of, then take the plot from there, and add in lots of details.
If you had the opportunity to say one thing to your readers, what would that be?
Thank you to everyone who has bought my stories. I appreciate all the support, and there is more coming!
Visit Jon at:http://hstrial-jonbradbury.intuitwebsites.com
Monday, August 30, 2010
Author spotlight with Valerie J. Long
Dear Valerie,Thanks for agreeing to the interview. I have to ask, What has been your biggest influence on becoming a writer?
It must have been one of two things: first, I love books. I always have more books than shelf space for them. I always have a pile of yet unread books. Second, although I read a lot, I still have an unstoppable imagination. I have to write down some of it—and when a friend asked why I don’t try to publish it, I thought: Yes, why not?
How did you feel when you got your first publishing contract?I felt, well, supported? Acknowledged? Surprised? It was one shot, one hit. I have to say thank you to Extasy Books for trusting me.
How do you categorize yourself: pantser or plotter?I had to look up pantser. Yes. I’m both. I can start a story, see where it develops to and then complete the outline that develops. Like in fantasy roleplaying games, I can let my characters run and see how they react to new situations. Open end, everything is possible. I can build a plan, like I did for my current trilogy, that will support three 100k word books and then add detail. I do research on certain topics, but I can let go.
What makes a book great in your eyes?Easy. Three characteristics, in that order: First, it entertains the reader. Moreover, it will suck him/her inside the story and make the reader unable to leave. Second, it will reach the heart of the reader. Make him/her laugh, cry or tremble in anticipation. Third, it is worth to be read more than once. If the reader can discover things he/she may not have spotted before. Those make a good book for readers. Perhaps not for critics, but I don’t write for critics.
What is the biggest piece of your advice you can give a beginning writer?Don’t write for yourself, write for your readers. Use your imagination.
Do you have any guilty pleasures?Yes. Writing is—it takes up time which I can’t spend with my friends and family.
What influences your writing? And why?Everything. Books I read, movies I watch, the news, how I feel, and on top of all, music. For Lilith Rose, I listened to gothic rock like Moonspell, but another day it may be Dvorak.
Name one thing readers don’t know about you.My real-life name, and that remains my secret.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on a trilogy in the Zoe Lionheart series. Right now I’m in the middle of the second book and next I’ll translate another sequel from German to English.
Who is your favorite all-time author?I’m not sure if I can name just one, but if I have to, it’s probably Robert Ansom Heinlein. I’ve travelled to the USA to buy a book that would not be sold outside the US, according to his orders.
Are love scenes easy/difficult to write?Easy, if I’m in the right mood. That is, I write love scenes only if I’m in the right mood. Music can help me to get into that mood.
Do you write in one genre or several different ones? And why?Somehow my stories move from one genre to the next. Film Noir? Yes. Action, Thriller, Erotic, Fantasy, Science Fiction, Romance, Drama—it’s all there. Somehow the inner logic of the story requires the move from one genre to the next, and who am I to refuse?
If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?My first choice would be at Zoe’s side. Okay, let’s put fiction aside. There are three favorite places where I like to be. Broome in Western Australia, Vancouver, Canada, and my hometown, Wiesbaden, Germany. Luckily, right now I’m in one of these places.
How do you deal with the dreaded writer’s block?Writer’s block? What is that? My biggest problem is to find the time to write down all my ideas!
Do you have another career besides writing? What is it?
Yes. Writing is a hobby. I’m an IT project manager, I have to make computers do what people want them to do.
What’s your biggest reward in being a writer?Happy and touched readers.
To date, which is your favorite story? Which one did you have the most fun writing?Lioness’ Dream, the fifth sequel. Or perhaps Lioness’ Pack, the sixth. When you read them, you’ll know why.
How do you go about developing your characters and setting?My characters do their own development, I just give them enough air to breathe. I just shove them out of the door and into the story and say: Go, be a hero! Then they do the rest and I’m proud of them. The setting—well, okay, that’s my wicked imagination.
If you had the opportunity to say one thing to your readers, what would that be?Enjoy reading! Wait—why should I say just one thing? This is not the last time we will talk! Come and visit me on the exFactor loop or on Facebook!
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/Valerie-J-Long/96884542843?ref=nf
Monday, August 23, 2010
Character spotlight with Lilith Rose
What makes you special?
Me? Special? Oh no, I’m not special, only that I have failed to keep my promise. Wait—let me think. Yes, there’s one thing. I’m absolutely committed to correct my failure.
Tell me about your most current adventure.
Adventure—well, yes, I think you can call it adventurous. But don’t you think I’d give away too much? No? Okay. You know, until I started my mission I had no idea…I was a virgin, y’know. Well, the first time—it hurt a bit, but I think that’s okay, it’s part of my—chastisement, I’d say. I pulled him in so quick that he didn’t have time to notice. And then, oh, it was such a great feeling! And that was just the beginning!
If you could offer your author advice, what would it be?
She shouldn’t be so sad. She knows I deserved what I got. It was my choice.
Are you happy with the way people perceive you?
Happy? You’re kidding. First, they see a little girl. Then they see some new toy in me. When they finally recognize how wrong they’ve been, it’s too late. No, honestly, I don’t care anymore.
Is expressing love difficult for you? Why?
Well, yes, of course. But it’s a part of my role. I must appear authentic. They may never suspect it’s not the real thing. It’s difficult because I only know it from books and internet video, and there’s such a lot of fake stuff. I really think there are only two or three tapes with moans that are used everywhere.
Is there a message you want to get across in this interview?
If you fail, you have to deal with the consequences. Ultimately.
If you could time travel, where would you go?
A few minutes before that ugly incident. I’d tell my sis not to go to town alone.
How many sex partners have you had? How many at one time?Oh, I did them one by one. That was the only way to complete my mission. Each a different pace and a different method. I think it wouldn’t be fair not to dedicate yourself entirely to one man.
Is there a question you wish I had asked but didn’t?
Yes. You could have asked if it all had to happen this way. No. If my father had been a bit more understanding, if my sister had been a bit more careful, if I had been a bit more alert—but then I wouldn’t be here for the interview, right?
What are your opinions on Eva, Adam’s second wife?
Eva who? Adam? Are you talking ’bout the Bible? I’m not very religious, you see. But if you ask, I think she shouldn’t have eaten that apple. There must have been zillions of other fruit around. Just stupid to pick the one she was told not to. Just stupid to listen to a snake.
What are the pro’s and con’s to being a deity?
Dunno—why do you ask me? Probably it’s nice that you never need care about your moon days, but it must be ultimately boring to sit on a cloud every other day.
How does one become a deity?Look, I don’t know where this interview is heading to, but your questions are getting stranger and stranger. What do I know about becoming a deity?
Describe your best kill. Why was it the best?
Oops, what a question! But okay, it won’t matter anyway, it’s too late for the police. I think I can’t pick one. That would be like taking one aria and ignoring the opera. I think it’s the overall picture that counts.
Could you count on any special abilities?Except being a pretty girl with a firm pair of boobies? No—yes. Perhaps I’m a good actress. But otherwise I’m an ordinary girl, and I did my homework.
What’s the oddest thing you’ve seen or done?
Hmm—this interview?
If you could change one thing about you or someone you loved, what would it be?
Oh my. Perhaps I’d change the way Pop saw my sis. She wasn’t a bad girl and he was a good father. But they didn’t get along very well. Isn’t that so with all teenies?
How do you deal with stress?
I focus on my task. I just have to get it done.
Would you like to give any advice to our readers?I don’t think I’m in a position to give advice. I’m not a good role model. I have failed. I could say Don’t repeat my mistakes, but I think every situation is individual, and so are my mistakes. Use your own good judgement and use it better than I did.
Visit Valerie J. Long at:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Valerie-J-Long/96884542843
Monday, August 16, 2010
Character spotlight with Alex Marinos
What makes you special?
Special? I think I’m a lot like the average man…except maybe in some ways I play harder.
Do you have special abilities?
I’d say I have a pretty sharp business mind. I excel at my work because I’m determined to be one of the best in my industry. And, well, I don’t like to brag, but I’ve never left a woman unsatisfied.
What is your biggest professional accomplishment?
Becoming the owner of the Blue Star hotel. I worked very hard to achieve this and after five months’ of renovation, it’s become exactly what I had envisioned.
Tell us about your most current adventure.
Celia’s got me in one of her books titled: The Greek Bachelor, which is a fitting title as I am a bachelor—enjoyably so—and I’m Greek. My family is constantly trying to get me to settle down with a wife, but that’s not in the cards, at least not for a while. In this latest adventure though, Celia throws me a curve ball. Carlie, my sister-in-law’s best friend has come to Zakynthos to photograph our villas, and she’s living right next to me. I’m supposed to be a perfect gentleman and of course, I always am…just that when I saw Carlie again, I wanted her even more than the first time I met her. My brothers warned me to keep my hands to myself, but it’s going to be next to impossible with this gorgeous woman in my company every single day…and when it comes to women, I usually get what I want.
If you could offer your author advice, what would it be?
That’s a difficult question. Celia has a way with words and she knows how to take a story in the right direction. One thing though, Celia, take it easy on us bachelors. Maybe give us a warning before tossing a gorgeous, irresistible and totally unforgettable female our way.
Are you happy with the way people perceive you?
I have very positive relations with the people who matter most and I don’t care much how others perceive me. Although, for the sake of this question, I’ve been called opinionated and a few other interesting adjectives. Going back to Carlie…what I find unsettling is that her opinion of me matters more and more. With women, I always kept things uncomplicated to avoid heartache, but I’ve realized that this connection between me and Carlie is far from simple.
Is expressing love difficult for you? Why?
No, I tend to express my feelings easily. Now, love…there are different kinds of love. I love my family dearly and I’m nuts about my nephews and nieces. Romantically, I’ve experienced in love feelings, naturally, but no woman has given me enough reason to be exclusive to her the rest of my life. I’ll tell you a little secret…there’s a part of me that wants to love deeply…you know, eventually. I don’t dwell on it too much, though.
What is the most interesting thing that has happened to you?
Carlie Bowers. She’s the most interesting thing that’s happening to me now. She intrigues me unlike any other woman. I don’t even want to sleep with my lover. It’s got me a bit panicked, but I want her badly. Problem is, I know she thinks I’m a womanizer and she’s got her guard up. Hell, she’s even got me apologizing for my behavior!
Is there a message you want to get across in this interview?
Yes, to the other Heroes in Celia’s books—be prepared for the unexpected when it comes to love.
Have you ever lost control?
Only in bed.
What was the best sexual experience you’ve had?
Just looking at Carlie, I suspect I haven’t had it yet.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Character spotlight with Nate and Tina
Tina: “Thanks, babe. Hi all. I’m Tina Cain. Felig fighter, along with my main man here.”
Nate: “ Hello, folks. I’m Nate Lowe. Fellow Felig fighter and lover to the hottie sitting next to me.”
Tina: “Nate, honey. I think saying hello is enough. If folks want to know details they can find out in PJ Dean’s The Felig Chronicles (www.fil.es//dz).
What makes us special?
Nate: “Special? Well people who are shortsighted would say it’s because we are an interracial couple. That’s not particularly special to me. We are just a plain pair who snuggle on the couch with a big bowl of popcorn, who make out like crazy—”
Tina: “And who battle Felig. They invaded Earth a few years back and humans have been running for cover ever since. It’s hard living because the Felig cannot initially be seen or heard. They just sneak up on their prey and BAM! Nasty-behind, life-sucking bug-birds.”
Nate: Tina, be nice. Your mom is one.”
Tina: “Not by her own choice. Your ex is one, too. She loves it. Evil ass cow.”
Nate: “Yeah, she is. Let’s get back to the Felig in general. Our latest adventure found us trying to neutralize these creatures. They generate an enormous amount of heat when around or are feeding off human energy and/or emotion.”
Tina: “That brought us together and Nate’s promise to get my mom back. That started our business partnership.”
Nate: “It has progressed to the very personal, very fast.”
Tina: “We haven’t been apart since.”
Nate “Yes we have.”
Tina: “When?”
Nate: When an encounter with my ex landed you in the hospital and when you ran away from me.”
Tina: “Okay. Okay. Shhh! Let people read about it. Also, we’d like to say that PJ’s story is very good, but she needs to spread the word more. She needs to prod people into wanting to know more about these aliens.”
People’s perception of you…
Tina: “People say that Nate is very organized, very controlled, methodical. He gets the job done. He has integrity and intensity. It’s all attractive to me. That’s why I love him.”
Nate: “People say Tina is in charge, considerate, no nonsense, prepared. She is devoted to those she loves. Plus, she’s beyond hot. That’s why I love her. I’ve heard some call her a hood rat.”
Tina: “Who said that? Teddy? I’ll break my foot off in his—”
Nate: “T! Please! People are reading this.”
Some final thoughts…
Nate: “As Felig fighters we have to keep our wits about us. That endeavor entails a lot of exercise, laughter and sex. They are the only three ways we can let off steam and remain fit and sane. The best and most interesting thing that has happened to us is meeting. If not for the Felig, we would never have met. As a team, we hope to improve on how to rid Earth of the Felig. We have a tiny start on this task. We wish to save the population and continue our journey together. We can’t reveal too much. The Felig may be reading this. *LOL* In the next five years we plan to make them sorry that they left their home planet.”
Tina: “Nate, what about my mom?”
Nate: “She can stay, babe.”
Monday, July 26, 2010
Character Interview with George Sullivan
Hello George! What makes you special?
What differentiates me is that I’m a full-time author of mystery/thrillers with no day job. Most writers have something reliable to fall back on, but I chose to make this my vocation and let the cards fall where they may. Having no steady paycheck makes it difficult at times, but I manage to get by and have a great time with my life.
Tell us about your most current adventure.
My latest adventure, The Sweet Distraction, was released on June 1, 2010. In this story, I’m about as far down the food chain as you can get—my last few books haven’t sold well, I drink too much, I sleep around and I’m in hock to a nasty bookie named The Greek for a gambling debt there’s no way in hell I can repay. I don’t know what other train wreck is in store, but my agent arranges for me to write the life story of a notorious mob boss named Vito Pasquale, who is a big fan of my books. The offer he makes is too good to refuse and I think I can write the book, get my reputation back on track, take the money and run. What I don’t see coming is his hot daughter, Cookie. Man, this is one woman who doesn’t like taking no for an answer when she sees someone she really wants, and even though I try to keep her at arm’s length, she wears me down and we start a hot clandestine affair. I only hope her father doesn’t find out! I’d look terrible in a cement overcoat in the middle of Lake Erie.
If you could offer your author advice, what would it be?
The next time you write about me, how about showing more of the kinky sex I like to indulge in once in a while? Hey, I’m a footloose player with a lot of adventures to my credit. How about sharing those with the world?
Are you happy with the way people perceive you?
I’m pretty happy with the way people perceive me. I’m laid back, but I like to have control over my life and I’m the original Good Time Charlie. The only people whose perception I could care less about are the critics. Nothing against them because they have a job to do, but I think critics are about as useful as training wheels on a bowling ball. Of course, the fact that they trashed my last couple of books probably influenced my opinion.
Tell us a little bit about your world.
I live in a nice little apartment in Kettering, Ohio outside Dayton. In addition to writing, I like to gamble, play the field and hook up with friends for fun. I take the business of being an author seriously and have fun doing promotional things like interviews and personal appearances, especially when they take me on the road. My philosophy on life is to enjoy it now because you only go around once and I’m afraid I might miss something good. I’d never forgive myself for that.
Is humor important? Why or why not?
It’s very important. I’ve never been keen on people who take themselves too seriously. Being serious about your work is one thing, but you have to temper whatever life throws at you with some laughs. Otherwise you’ll just walk around being gloomy all the time, and who wants to be around people like that? You have to follow the philosophy live, laugh and love. That and a good bottle of Irish whiskey will get you through just about anything.
Is expressing love difficult for you? Why?
Yeah, it is difficult for me to express. In my thirty-two years, I got into a serious relationship once and it turned out to be a disaster. It’s never been easy for me to say the L word to anyone and the one time I did, the fallout was so bad it still gives me nightmares.
Did you do anything special after your first adventure?
I took Vito Pasquale up on his offer of an all expenses paid trip to Tuscany for a month, with Cookie as my companion. She’d been there before, but it was a new experience for me. Man, what a great time we had! Something about that place brought out the lusty beast in both of us, and the food and wine was pretty good, too.
What’s the kinkiest thing you’ve done?
A few years ago, I took a trip to Jamaica, alone. I was there to research a new book and see the sights, but what I saw at the clothing optional beaches beat the natural scenery. One night I hooked up with a group of partiers and after a few Mojitos, the fun began. That was my first orgy and it went on all night. I lost track of how many were involved, but it was the first time I’ve ever had sex on the beach. It was fun, but I made a disturbing discovery—that sand gets ev-er-y-where!
What’s the oddest thing you’ve seen or done?
On my trip to Jamaica, an acquaintance took me to a Santeria ritual, complete with an animal sacrifice. I’ve never been an overly devout person, but that sent me running to the nearest parish looking for salvation. Spooky stuff!
Tell us what it’s like to spend a day with you.
When I’m working on a book, I follow a pretty regimented routine. I’m generally up by 7:00 and working by 7:30 or 8:00. I’ll stay with it all morning and most of the afternoon if I’m really on a roll, then knock off around 5:00. After grabbing something to eat, it might be party time, hitting a couple of local bars and clubs I like, maybe catching a ball game or a good music group. If I’m under a deadline, the work continues through the evening until I can’t see the computer screen anymore, then I crash. I might take a break to catch a good movie on TV, preferably a classic film noir, and I usually have jazz playing in the background when I’m working. If I’m taking a break to get my head together, I’ll walk at one of the local parks or call a buddy to play racquetball.
What’s the one thing you wish you could change about yourself or someone you love?
Sometimes I wish I’d take planning for my future a little more seriously and stop living in the here and now. It’s fun, but I tend to forget that I’m not getting any younger and this won’t last forever. I tend to put off little things, like annuities and retirement planning.
How do you deal with stress?
Long walks on hiking trails are great for unwinding, and so is playing racquetball. There’s a tremendous amount of angst to be relieved by belting that little ball across the court.
Tell us about…
One time we held a release party for my second book and I was approached by an attractive woman. She chatted as though she knew me very well and she looked vaguely familiar, but I couldn’t quite place her. I thought, Wow, an honest to goodness fan who’s followed my career! Then I remembered that we’d hooked up a couple of years earlier. I couldn’t remember her name! Talk about embarrassing.
Finally, is there something you wished we had asked, but didn’t?
Yeah, I figured you’d ask if I’m going to return in another adventure. I wish I could answer that, but it’s really up to the guy who created me so I guess we’ll both have to wait and see. He’s probably waiting to see the royalties before he decides if I’m worth talking about again.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Author spotlight with Tim Smith
I suppose having an active imagination and the desire to create something that people would enjoy. I’ve always been a creative person, whether it was music, art or photography, and I reached a point where I wanted to add writer to the list.
How did you feel when you got your first publishing contract?
I felt elated, like a lifelong dream had finally come true. If I recall, my feet didn’t touch the ground for three days. Even now, five books later, I still get the same feeling when a new one has been accepted for publication.
How do you categorize yourself: pantser or plotter?
Definitely a plotter. With me, an engaging plot is everything, whether I’m writing contemporary romantic comedies or mystery/thrillers. Even erotica needs a reason for the characters to get it on, unless your story is about the life of a professional escort.
What makes a book great in your eyes?
Colorful characters, realistic dialogue, believable yet imaginative situations and great atmosphere.
What is the biggest piece of your advice you can give a beginning writer?
When you find a good story idea that you’re passionate about, discipline yourself to sit down, write it, polish it, and don’t give up your dream of getting it published.
What influences your writing? And why?
This may sound odd, but my biggest influences have come from movies. I appreciate good cinematic story telling, especially anything scripted by Billy Wilder and Blake Edwards. When I think of what to say in certain life situations, I’m more likely to quote Billy Wilder than Oscar Wilde.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently developing a new romantic intrigue series, but with a twist: the only recurring character will be the male lead, with a different woman drifting into each installment for him to get involved with.
Who is your favorite all-time author?
I can’t fairly narrow it down to one, so here are four, in random order: Raymond Chandler, James W. Hall, Carl Hiaasen and—Shhh! Don’t tell anyone!—Mickey Spillane.
Are love scenes easy/difficult to write?
To get them right, I’d have to say they’re difficult. There are only so many ways you can describe kissing and what usually follows without being clichéd—the trick is finding new ways to tell it.
Do you write in one genre or several different ones? And why?
I write in the thriller and contemporary romance genres. I began as a writer of thrillers then decided I wanted to try something different, so I wrote my first romance. I like to alternate between the two to keep myself sharp. With the new series of romantic intrigue I’m working on, I think I’ve found a way to satisfy both urges.
If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?
The Florida Keys, no question. It’s my favorite place to hang out and do research when I’m not parasailing or seeking out the perfect Pina Colada.
How do you deal with the dreaded writer’s block?
When I hit a dead end I put away whichever project I’m working on, take a few days off, then work on something else for a while.
Do you have another career besides writing? What is it?
My day job is working as a case manager for adults with disabilities. Although it’s very rewarding it’s also stressful, and writing provides a good release. Then again, so does a good bottle of twelve-year-old Scotch.
What’s your biggest reward in being a writer?
Mt biggest reward is having someone tell me how much they enjoyed what I’ve written. When they say I can’t wait to read your next one though—man, it doesn’t get much better than that!
To date, which is your favorite story? Which one did you have the most fun writing?
I’ve had fun writing all of them but it would be a toss-up between two. My favorite thriller was my third one, The Vendetta Factor, because I threw out the rules and added liberal doses of satire. My favorite romance novel to date is my upcoming release, The Sweet Distraction. I had a lot of fun with this one because I went primarily for laughs while telling a good love story against a subplot that became funnier the longer I wrote.
How do you go about developing your characters and setting?
My characters have to have flaws to make them believable. I don’t wish to offend anyone, but I’ve never been a fan of the knight on a white horse type of hero. I write contemporary stories and in the real world, those guys just don’t exist. I believe everyone has some event that shaped their personality, and it’s my obligation as a writer to use it to give the characters depth. As for settings, I try to stay away from locations or situations that have been overexposed. My two romances took place in Dayton, Ohio instead of somewhere exotic like Florida, and it was a challenge to make the Gem City look romantic.
If you had the opportunity to say one thing to your readers, what would that be?
For those who have read any of my books, I’d like to say thank you, and if you liked them, tell your friends they were written by Tim Smith. If you didn’t like them, say it was Nora Roberts.
Check out Tim’s webpage at: www.timsmithauthor.com